《The Runaway Groom》 The Runaway Groom Chapter 1 The Runaway Groom Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Irene Spencer was married to a bridegroom who never showed up at their wedding. The bed sprinkled with rose petals that formed a distinct heart shape, along with the decorations within the suite, were all a p to her face. It was outrageous! It was unfair! And there was nothing she could do about it! All her life, she had been under the control of others ever since she was born. Even her marriage to the Jefferson family was because of her father¡®s greed. Her grandfather used to be Mr. Jefferson¡®s chauffeur, and had sacrificed himself to save Mr. Jefferson in an ident. Her family managed a smallpany and incurred a serious debt. On the verge of bankruptcy, Irene¡®s shrewd father predicted that they had already reached the limit of favors they could ask for from the Jeffersons. As such, he resorted to sacrificing Irene for the sake of his personal gain¨Cby proposing to Mr. Jefferson to have his grandson, Isaac Jefferson, marry her. It was overwhelmingly advantageous¨CIrene¡®s family would earn a fat wedding purse from the Jeffersons¡® rtives and connections, just as they gained prestige and status as the inws of the Jeffersons. For their part, the Jeffersons could not refuse the marriage for the sake of their reputation. Even so, the marriage upset Isaac considerably, which was why he did not bother to show up at the wedding, while demanding that she not introduce herself as his wife outside the family. No one ever asked Irene¡®s opinion on the matter. Her curled brows twitched above her bright eyes, concealing the rebellious nature behind them. Still, just as she wondered how she would kill time on her wedding night, she received a text from her colleague, asking that she rece her shift. Hailing a cab, she headed to the hospital, swapping her white bridal gown for a whiteb coat. Bang! The door to the clinic suddenly swung wide open forcefully, and Irene was about to look up when someone killed the lights with a loud snap. She felt goosebumps as fear seized her. ¡°Who¨C¡± Even before she could finish her sentence, she was pinned against her desk, and everything on top tumbled to the floor while she felt a sharp de held against her neck. Amidst the darkness, she saw a man¡®s face, covered in blood, and his sharp eyes as he threatened, ¡°Be quiet!¡± She could tell from the pungent scent of blood swirling in her nostrils that the man was hurt. Nheless, she remained calm despite the direness of the situation, thanks to her job. She gently arched her foot in an attempt to hit the man where it hurt the moss, but he noticed the instant she moved and used his own thighs to pincer her leg firmly, keeping it in ce. TI ¡°I saw himing this way!¡± At the same time, there was a mor of footsteps outside the clinic, and the people out there looked like they were going to open the door. LILIT Perhaps out of the urgency of the situation, the man leaned in and kissed her lips. Irene resisted, easily pushing him away, and suddenly realized that he did not slice through her neck in retaliation. Click! While Irene was left surprised, the doorknob started to twitch. As such, she quickly braced herself, wrapping her arms around the man¡®s neck and lifting her face to kiss him. There was a quiver in her voice, but she forced herself to stayposed. ¡°I can help you.¡± The man gulped, though he took the initiative at the very next instant. His warm breath was beside her ears, and his voice was at once deep and alluring as he spoke, ¡°I will definitely take responsibility for you.¡± Wait, he misunderstood her¨Cshe was just going to put up an act. Then, as the door was opened, she imitated the moans she observed on TV, her aroused and coquettish panting leaving the man intoxicated, and the people at the door were left unnerved as well. ¡°Whoa, a romp at the hospital? How exciting!¡± The door was opened by a slit, and the lights from the corridor filled in, illuminating Irene and the man on top of her. It was still too dark for them to see everything, aside from the two bodies that were entwined. ¡°It can¡®t be Isaac Jefferson. There¡®s no way he would be doing that after he got wounded.¡± ¡°The chick¡®s moans are nice, though.¡± ¡°Get moving! Find him, or we¡®re all dead!¡± With that, they left, their footsteps bing distant just then. The man on top of Irene knew that they were gone, but also suddenly realized that he was losing his restraint ¨C the unfamiliar woman before him was stirring his libido like never before! 11 For Irene¡®s part, the hormones swirling in the room and their raunchy positions abruptly triggered Irene¡®s rebellious nature which she had been afraid to let loose for so long All her life, she had been controlled and kept in darkness. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. She would fight back in her own way! As such, Irene did not resist as she gave herself to that man. After the deed, the man gently kissed her on the cheek, his deep voice filled with satisfaction as he said, ¡°I wille find you.¡± With that, he left as quickly as he could. On the other hand, Ireney on the desk for a long while, feeling a fiery pain in her groin. The desk phone, which was just teetering on the edge of the desk from all that action, started ringing. She reached out to grab it, and immediately heard a voice calling out anxiously, ¡°Dr. Cox? There¡®s been a traffic ident, and they¡®ve just brought in a patient to the emergency ward in critical condition. Pleasee here immediately.¡± Quicklyposing herself, Irene answered calmly,¡± Okay, I¡®ll be right there.¡± Putting down the phone, she spaced out for seconds. After all, her disheveled clothes and difort in her groin told her that everything that had happened just now was not a dream. It definitely happened ¨C she just had sex with a man she did not know on her wedding night... It was the most treacherous deed she had ever done in her entire life! Still, this was not the time for time, so she quickly put on her clothes and headed to the emergency ward. After working the entire night, Irene returned to the clinic to find that it was still a mess in here, and clenched her fists when she remembered what had happenedst night. Whitney Cox entered just then with a smile. ¡°Thanks for covering my shist, Dr. Spencer.¡± Irene forced a smile. ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± ¡°Anyway, my business is done, so you should go home and get some rest...¡± Whitney continued, but soon noticed the mess in the clinic and raised her brow. ¡°What happened here?¡± Irene turned away to hide the panic in her eyes. ¡°I identally knocked my things over. Well, I¡®ll get going since you¡¯re here now.¡± Whitney thought that Irene was acting a little weird, but took no notice and entered to clean up the mess. That was when the chief of the hospital appeared at the door with Stan Hill, Isaac Jefferson¡®s assistant, beside him. The Runaway Groom Chapter 2 The Runaway Groom Chapter 2 Chapter 2 The hospital chief said, ¡°That¡®s her, Whitney Cox¨Cshe was on clinic dutyst night.¡± Stan entered, nced at Whitney¡®s name tag, and said,¡± Come with me.¡± Whitney was puzzled. ¡°What...?¡± ¡°Oh, just go,¡± the hospital chief pulled her along, seemingly not in the mood for questions. ¡°Don¡®t keep Mr. Jefferson waiting.¡± Soon, Whitney was in the chief¡®s office, where Isaac was lying on the couch. One would notice his tall and broad frame immediately, and it would take a second look to see that his lips were pale and white. The thick smell of antibiotics in the hospital hid the scent of blood that lingered on him as well. He was dressed in all ck, and the sternness of his visage was like a terrible storm that strikes headfirst, with a single look enough to instill fear in a person! Stan walked up behind Isaac, leaned downward, and whispered, ¡°Your pursuers must have destroyed all the cameras to destroy any evidence of their presence. Also, this is Whitney Cox¨Cthe doctor on clinic dutyst night. The hospital chief confirmed it, and I checked the records as well.¡± As Isaac looked up at Whitney, she gasped¡ªthat man was the head of Light Group! ¡°You helped me yesterday?¡± Isaac asked as he studied her. Whitney promptly lowered her gaze, afraid of looking straight into his eyes. ¡°Y¨CYes...¡± She had no idea what had happenedst night, only that it would not hurt if she managed to befriend him. Moreover, it was now a vital moment ¨C the higher¨Cups were going to decide who would be chosen for the internship at the Central Hospital of the Second Militarized Zone. Though they called it an internship, everyone knew that the one chosen would get to stay, not to mention that the connections were far better than anything they had here. If she could bring Isaac to her side, she definitely could get that internship! Meanwhile, Isaac continued, ¡°I can give you anything you want, including marriage.¡± His expression remained neutral, but a look of tenderness appeared when he rememberedst night. ¡°What... I...¡± Whitney stammered in gibberish since everything was happening too fast. ¡°Come to me when you made up your mind,¡± Isaac said LLLLLL 1 as he rose to his feet, while telling Stan to give Whitney his contact method. ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± The hospital chief stood up as well, seemingly intending to escort him out as well. ¡°No, it¡®s fine,¡± Isaac said, his usual aloofness returning, though he paused for a moment as he remembered something else. ¡°Do take good care of her whenever she¡®s in your hospital.¡± ¡°Don¡®t worry, I will,¡± the hospital chief said with a fawning smile. After making sure that they were out of earshot, Stan quietly reminded Isaac, ¡°Sir, you¡®re married. So...¡± ... He could not make good on his promise to marry Ms. Cox. The thought of the woman who forced herself on him left Isaac glowering, and his lips curled up as he growled icily, ¡°She asked for it.¡± Stan shuddered, unsure if he was talking about the woman he was forced to marry, or the cause of the recent incident. Irene returned to the mansion where she and her newlywed husband would be staying. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson,¡± Mrs. Watson greeted her the instant she entered. ¡°Were you out for the night?¡± ¡°I had to fill in for someone,¡± Irene quietly replied, her eyes beady and looking quite worn. Seeing that she was tired, Mrs. Watson did not press her further as she headed upstairs. Taking a soak in the bathtub, Irene remembered what had happenedst night, and buried her head beneath her hands while feeling her cheeks burning. She was certainly feeling conflicted that she had given herself to a man, and without knowing what he was like. IL To make things worse, she was married, and it was a betrayal toward Isaac Jefferson, her newlywed husband! After taking a bath, she got dressed and headed out again. Mrs. Watson saw that and went up to her, asking,¡± Leaving again? Aren¡®t you going to have breakfast, at least?¡± Irene nced at the time and replied, ¡°I¡®m going to bete for work.¡± Mrs. Watson had known before that Irene was a doctor and what her work entailed, not to mention that it was a respectable job. As such, she brought Irene a ss of milk, saying, ¡°It¡®s warm. You should drink it before you go.¡± Irene looked at Mrs. Watson then. The woman¡®s concern left her with warmth, and she nodded while saying quietly, ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You¡®re wee.¡± Mrs. Watson smiled, her round face showing kindness. Irene quickly finished the milk, passed Mrs. Watson the ss, and headed out. Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org. She did not start work immediately. In fact, she came to the hospital because she was visiting the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where her mother was. After she entered, she checked her mother¡®s condition as she always did¨Cher heart sank since her mother was not improving Her mother was suffering from heart failure and was at a terminal stage. She needed a heart transnt to stay alive, but the surgery would cost an arm and a leg. It was the reason why she had agreed to marry Isaac¨Cher father had threatened not to pay her mother¡®s medical fees. And right now, all they had to do was wait for a donor match, and her mother would be saved. Gazing upon her mother, she swore despite her bitterness, ¡°I¡®ll definitely get you better, Mom.¡± After all, she was the closest rtion she had in the world. Bzzt... Her phone started to ring in her pocket. ¡°Irene? Could you do me a favor?¡± a voice spoke from the other end. The Runaway Groom Chapter 3 The Runaway Groom Chapter 3 Chapter 3 It was Irene¡®s upperssman , Zachary te. They had graduated from the same teaching hospital, though he was her senior by two semesters. Being a returnee, he was pretty famous in the country now, but he had always taken good care of Irene, and they were good friends. ¡°Shoot.¡± Her reply was brisk. ¡°I have an outpatient visit to make, but something came up. Could you sub in for me?¡± Irene nced at that time. She only had two surgeries in the afternoon and now outpatient visits for the day, so she had time in the morning. ¡°Sure,¡± she replied. ¡°The address is Unit 306, Section A, Rose Garden. Tell them that you¡®re looking for a Mr. Hill Security will understand.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± ¡°Also, don¡®t mention this case to anyone else at all, and don¡®t ask your patient any questions. Just treat him that¡®s all you have to do,¡± Zachary instructed her solemnly. ¡°Got it,¡± Irene replied, hung up, and headed straight to the designated address. Rose Garden was a prestigious residential area, where privacy and security were maintained with maximum effort. When the security guards stopped Irene at the gates, she told them that she was looking for Mr. Hill, and they made a call to confirm it before letting her in. Reaching Unit 306, Irene pressed the door, which quickly opened to reveal Stan Hill. He frowned when he saw that it was not Zachary. ¡°Who are you?¡± Irene knew from Zachary¡®s call that the patient seemed to be the secretive type, and had her mask on since she did not want to bring trouble for herself. ¡°Dr. te sent me.¡± Stan nced at the dstone bag she was holding then.¡± Do you know what you¡®re supposed to do?¡± ¡°Yes. Dr. te has instructed me beforehand-your privacy will be protected.¡± Still, Stan was a little upset since Zachary should not have sent a substitute out of the blue, but he allowed Irene in. Leading her past the living room, they arrived at a room on the second floor, but the lights within were all turned off. ¡°It¡¯s so dark,¡± Ireneined. ¡°How am I going to do my work?¡± Isaac happened to be inside, and when he heard a woman¡®s voice, he picked up the jacket he had ced nearby and put it over his face while growling coldly,¡± Lights on.¡± Stan flipped a switch, and the room was illuminated in an instant. At the same time, Irene found the voice rather familiar, but did not press the matter. She merely studied the man on the bed, whose white shirt was dyed maroon with dried blood. She stopped looking at him for too long¨Cshe had a job to do, and she should be more self¨Caware since the man clearly did not want her to know who he was. Opening her bag on the table, she took out a pair of scissors and cut off the fabric covering the man¡®s wounds. She then quickly examined the wounds and saw that they were covered in simple bandages, which she removed as well, to reveal two cuts made by sharp objects. 1 Putting down the scissors, she cleaned the wounds calmly and proficiently. ¡°Are you allergic to anesthetics?¡± she asked. The wounds were not deep and did not reach any organs, but they needed stitching, which in turn made anesthetics necessary. Her voice was very calm at the moment, unlikest night when she was panicking. That was why Isaac did not find it familiar hearing it now. Noting that she was quick on her feet and therefore acknowledging her abilities, he coolly said, ¡°No.¡± With that, Irene injected the spots around the wounds where she would stitch , and went to work two minutester as the drug took effect. An hourter, she was done-a swift procedure on all ounts. Her hands were wet with blood, so she said, ¡°I need the washroom.¡± ¡°It¡®s downstairs. You can go on your own,¡± Stan told her. After she left, Stan stayed by the doorway for a while to confirm that she was downstairs, before closing the door and walking up to Isaac. ¡°We got a hit. Your assants were sent by Quincy Moore ¨C she must have panicked and tried to kill you since you removed her spies in yourpany.¡± Isaac sat up in response. His clothes were a mess, and he appeared srail and sickly, but there was a menacing presence about him regardless. He then looked up with a gaze as dark as an abyss. ¡°Was she the one who pulled strings and forced that marriage on me?¡± Stan paused for a moment, and quietly said, ¡°Yes. I found out that Lionel Spencer had been in contact with her. The whole thing was fishy in the first ce, but it¡®s almost certain that she did something that¡®s why Lionel named you as the bridegroom he wanted, and notn.¡± ¡°Well, since she¡®s been giving me one ¡®present¡® after another, it would be bad form if I did not return the favor, ¡°Isaac growled¨Che had just left the country for an errand, and everyone else had been busy while he was away. Though he appeared aloof, the coldness lurking in his gaze was unmistakable. ¡°I heardn has been managing that nightclub called Charmed at Central Avenue, or am I mistaken?¡± Stan understood his n immediately. ¡°Without any ce for them in thepany, that establishment is their only source of ie. Life will be hard for them once we remove it.¡± ¡°Go,¡± Isaac said quietly. Stan was heading downstairs when he found Irene heading upstairs. Despite knowing that Zachary must have informed her about maintaining secrecy, he told her, ¡°Remember speak a word of what you¡®ve seen or heard today, and you¡®ll die horribly.¡± It was at once a warning and a reminder, but it was necessary ¨C if Quincy orn were to find out that Isaac was hurt, they would definitely seize the opportunity to make a mess.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°I won¡®t,¡± Irene replied, keeping her head down. ¡°I¡®ll leave after I get my bag.¡± Returning to the room upstairs, she saw that the wounded man had taken off his bloodstained shirt, revealing the clean lines over his broad shoulders and slender waist thatcked any fat. His body proportions seemed neatly trimmed, and projected a sense of power. ¡°Aren¡®t you leaving?¡± the man asked with a hint ofnguid irony, seemingly sensing her stare. Irene quickly shifted her gaze downward-she had definitely spaced out for a moment. The Runaway Groom Chapter 4 The Runaway Groom Chapter 4 Chapter 4 Keeping her head down, Irene walked up to her dstone bag, although she did not forget her obligation as a doctor. ¡°You shouldn¡®t let your stitchese in contact with water. Apply antiseptic once per day, and try to wear loose clothes that don¡®t brush against the stitches.¡± Putting down several small packs, she added, ¡°These are pills for oral use, and this is the antiseptic.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Isaac replied tly without turning around. Naturally, Irene said nothing in return, and left with her bag It was already eleven after she caught a taxi to return to the hospital. She had a simple meal at the cafeteria , but was summoned to the hospital chief¡®s office once she returned to the clinic. III His expression was solemn as if there was something he was hesitant to say, but eventually told her, ¡°I¡®m going to let Whitney Cox take the internship at the Second Militarized Zone.¡± Irene was stunned, but she did not give up immediately.¡± Didn¡¯t you agree before that I would be going?¡± ¡°Well¡­ You know that the state-of-the-art equipment we have in the hospital was donated by Light Group, don¡®t you? Isaac Jefferson told me to give the spot to Whitney, so there¡®s nothing I can do there.¡± Isaac¡®s name left Irene a little nervous. While his family and hers acknowledged that she was his wife, they had never met¨Cshe had only seen his face in magazines or on TV. Still... Isaac and Whitney? ¡°So, that¡®s how it¡®s going to be?¡± Irene asked calmly, although her heart was pounding. ¡°Yes, but don¡®t worry-we know very well about your professionalism and ability,¡± the chief assured her, because he held her in the highest esteem among her batch of young doctors. IVT Lowering her gaze, Irene murmured, ¡°I understand.¡± Even if she was Isaac¡®s wife, she was forced on him, and insignificant¨Canything she said would not hold sway. As such, she understood perfectly that there was no salvaging the situation. She said, ¡°I have two surgeries in the afternoon, so I shall get going.¡± The chief sighed. ¡°Of course. Go on.¡± Putting her full concentration on work in the afternoon, Irene became exhausted after the two surgeries. After washing her hands and taking off her blue scrubs, she was taking a break when Whitney entered the room. ¡°Dr. Spencer,¡± she smiled. ¡°Let me treat you to dinner.¡± ¡°Sorry, but I have something to do tonight,¡± Irene said, turning down her offer. IL She and Whitney were colleagues and nothing else. They had never been close, even though they were students from the same university and of the same year. However, Whitney had always been domineering and a show¨Coff, and loved to put herself against others. Irene, on the other hand, kept to her books. They were pr opposites, and certainly not besties. ¡°I see...¡± Whitney said, making a face. ¡°There¡®s something I wanted to tell you, actually.¡± Irene got up and hung her clothes without looking at Whitney. ¡°Shoot.¡± For some reason, she felt even more eager to keep her distance from Whitney after learning that she and Isaac were connected ¡°You must have heard, right? I¡®m really sorry. I didn¡®t know that the chief would¡± ¡°It¡®s fine,¡± Irene said, cutting her short. Whitney lowered her gaze for a moment, though an idea urred to her soon enough. ¡°Also, could you not tell anyone that I wasn¡®t actually in the hospitalst night? I don¡®t want trouble before my internship...¡± It was a weird reason, but Irene was used to such entricity from Whitney. ¡°Sure, I won¡®t.¡± After all, it wasmon to take a shift for a colleague out of the blue, and everyone inevitably had emergencies. Outside the hospital , the skies were darkening and the streetlights were lit. A luxury MPV was waiting outside the hospital. Zachary was inside , bragging. ¡°So? My junior was good, don¡®t you think?¡± Isaac was loafing at the backseat, remembering howposed and nimble the woman tended to his wounds in the afternoon. He certainly acknowledged her ability. ¡°There¡®s Ms. Cox,¡± Stan suddenly said in the front row. Isaac wound down his window as Whitney walked toward their MPV, and Zachary raised his brow when she saw him. ¡°Whitney Cox?¡± ¡°You know her?¡± Stan turned to ask. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org Zachary nodded. ¡°She¡®s my junior.¡± Isaac looked up, his eyes shing. She had saved himst night, and then tended to his injuries today as well? She... Even Stan was murmuring in awe. ¡°Is this Cupid¡®s arrangement?¡± Zachary frowned in response. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± That was when Whitney reached them, cutting their conversation short. The Runaway Groom Chapter 5 The Runaway Groom Chapter 5 Chapter 5 Zachary hade hitching a ride from Isaac to meet up with Irene. When he saw that it was Whitneying instead, he alighted. ¡°I¡®m leaving.¡± After he left, Whitney got in and sat opposite Isaac, feeling insecure since she realized that Isaac had mistaken her for someone else. However, she already experienced the benefit of his influence ¨C the chief of the hospital had always admired Irene, but Isaac just had to speak, and Whitney was given the internship at the Second Militarized Zone instead. She had made up her mind to keep him. Such an opportunity ¨Csuch good fortune¨Conly happens once in a lifetime. It was a blessing from the gods, and she must therefore seize it. ¡°I¡®ve made up my mind,¡± she said, looking up. Isaac twitched¨Che did not expect her to decide so quickly. Though he appeared unconcerned, he was actually curious about her answer. ¡°I don¡¯t want anything.¡± Whitney knew for sure that something important must have happened, which was why Isaac had offered to take her hand in marriage. However, if she were to ask for that or anything else, it would make her look greedy, and therefore decided to hold back so that she could secure a better prospect. ¡°Let¡®s just be friends for now.¡± TIL Isaac pursed his lips, feeling an emotion he could not describe just then. ¡°Is that your decision?¡± he asked silently. Whitney nodded. As such, Isaac decided against changing her mind¨Cwhat happenedst night had probably urred in the heat of the moment. ¡°I will respect your decision.¡± Irene was reading a book in the lounge area of the hospital. Her shift was over, but she did not want to head home or what she perceived as Isaac¡®s territory. For her, killing time at the hospital by studying was ideal. Knock, knock¡­ The door soon opened, and Zachary entered. Finding Irene, he asked, ¡°Why are you hiding here?¡± ¡°I¡®m not hiding,¡± Irene replied as she closed his book and set it on the table, and walked up to him. ¡°Why are you here, Zachary?¡± ¡°I have to thank you for helping me out, don¡®t l?¡± he chuckled. ¡°Come, let me treat you to something nice.¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°I¡®ll pass.¡± ¡°What¡®s wrong? Did something happen?¡± Zachary asked, suddenly noticing that she was in a bad mood. Irene avoided his gaze. ¡°No.¡± Zachary naturally doubted that. ¡°Come on, you can tell me... Or do you not trust me too?¡± ¡°No,¡± she quickly replied with a sigh, and exined, ¡°We won¡®t be colleagues anytime soon.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Zachary frowned, suddenly feeling a little angry. ¡°Did the chief change his mind? Who did he give the internship to? i¡®ll talk to him.¡± Irene caught his wrist as he turned around, shaking her head. ¡°Wasn¡®t it your dream to be an outstanding military doctor? It¡®s going to be a pipe dream if you can¡®t even get to Central!¡± Zachary eximed. Somehow, he felt that Irene was not being herself today after all, did she not study diligently and work so hard for that dream? She did not actually give up on her dream-it was reality which had let her down. Moreover, she did not want to cause trouble for Zachary. Pursing his lips, Zachary growled, ¡°Fine.¡± 12 1 LE Irene forced a smile then. ¡°Let me treat you to dinner instead.¡± ¡°Next time, maybe,¡± Zachary growled, while quickly doing the math in his head. It had been decided for a while that the internship was Irene¡®s, and it would take someone¡®s machinations to take it away from her. Irene had always been too soft¨Cspoken and unimportant, but Zachary would not take this without a fight. ¡°I just remembered I have something to do. See you around.¡± Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org. With that, he turned to leave, and stormed into the hospital chief¡®s office angrily ¨C he had confidence , not just because he had rank and status ¨C his own family was quite influential as well. The chief was talking on the phone. ¡°That¡®s all,¡± he said, cutting the conversation short as he got up and greeted Zachary with a smile. ¡°What brings you here, Dr. te?¡± ¡°Wasn¡®t it decided that Irene would be given the internship at Central Hospital? Why change that? Who is it? How much did they pay you? I won¡®t let this go unless you give me a straight answer right now!¡± The hospital chief was naturally left in a difficult situation, but he exined, ¡°My hand was forced on that matter. What do you think I can do when Isaac Jefferson himself told me to take good care of Dr. Cox?¡± Zachary¡®s brow wrinkled at the mention of Isaac. ¡°Well, if you have a bone to pick, go to him,¡± the hospital chief added, smartly pushing off the responsibility in the face of someone he could not afford to provoke. 11 Nheless, Zachary was furious, and left to find Isaac. He had just stepped out of the hospital entrance when he found Whitney getting out of Isaac¡®s MPV, and strode toward it. Whitney smiled to greet him. ¡°Dr. te.¡± Zachary had no idea how he should react. ncing inside the car, he simply grunted, ¡°Uh¨Chuh.¡± After Whitney left, Zachary felt that Irene had been dealt an injustice, and the culprit had to be a friend of his. Still, Isaac had never cared about women that much, and his special treatment toward Whitney indicated that they were not just friends. As such, how could he ruin his friend¡®s happiness, when it was so rare for Isaac to be eager to win a woman¡®s favor? ¡°I don¡®t get it. What do you like about Whitney Cox?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 6 The Runaway Groom Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Isaac looked up. He raised a brow, amplifying his menacing presence. ¡°What?¡± Zachary gritted his teeth. ¡°Whatever. I will bear with it this time since it concerns your happiness.¡± Isaac gave him a dark, cid look. ¡°Drive.¡± After Stan drove off, Zachary decided that he must at least do something for Irene, but saw that she had just stepped out of the entrance when he turned to head back to the lounge. ¡°Irene...¡± Zachary walked up to her. ¡°I need to go.¡± TU She was still smiling at him, and it hurt Zachary to see her like this. ¡°I¡®ll do my best to find a donor for your mother.¡± L The thought of her mother left Irene¡®s gut clenching. She worked hard to hide her feelings, but the quiver in her voice was telling. ¡°Really?¡± A heart donor does not grow on trees, and there were plenty of cases where patients died even before they found a match. Her eyes welling with tears, she did not know how to convey her gratitude other than saying, ¡°Thank you, Zachary.¡± ¡°We¡®re friends, aren¡®t we? Don¡®t get all mushy on me now.¡± Zachary actually felt a little embarrassed¨C she would be much closer to her dream if Isaac was not the one pulling strings. ¡°I¡®ll drive you home.¡± ¡°No, it¡®s fine.¡± Irene quickly refused¨Cshe had to, because she was not going back to her own home. Naturally, Zachary did not try to insist. Irene took a taxi back to the mansion after parting ways with Zachary, and the thought that Isaac would never set foot here relieved her considerably. Even Mrs. Watson could see that she was not as wary as the first day she moved in, and smiled. ¡°You look quite happy. Did something good happen?¡± Irene was keeping her head down as she changed into loafers near the front door. ¡°Nothing. I just like staying here with you, Mrs. Watson¨Cjust the two of us.¡± Another voice asked, ¡°Are you saying that I¡¯m not wee here?¡± That voice... Irene looked up and found a man standing in the living room. The air around him seemed to turn cold as he stared loftily upon her with a hint of disgust. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. If she had never seen his face in magazines or on TV, she would never have recognized her ¡®husband.¡® To be fair, she never expected him to show up. ¡°Why... are you here?¡± Irene had no idea what was doing here. He hated this arranged marriage, did he not? He should have zero intentions of meeting her! Isaac glowered. ¡°What, do I need your permission to be here?¡± Irene lowered her head. It was true ¨C she was ¡®invading¡® his territory ¡°Sign this,¡± Isaac growled , unceremoniously throwing the divorce papers he was holding on the table. Irene was not surprised. It was only natural that he demanded a divorce, but she could not sign it now and had to wait until after her mother¡®s surgery. ¡°Mr. Jef¨C¡± she stammered, unsure how to address him.¡± Could you...?¡± ¡°You¡®re not signing it?¡± Isaac cut her short before she could finish, as if he had expected her to protest. After all, there was no way she would agree to this so easily after she had forced him to marry her through such despicable means. ¡°Have it your way. Just don¡®t regret thister,¡± Isaac said as he strode. .. Knowing that he had obviously misunderstood her, Irene wanted to exin. However, she identally tripped on the steps when she tried to chase him down, and dropped the bag she was holding. Everything inside tumbled out, and she quickly dropped to a crouch to pick them up. That was when she realized something was missing, and looked up to see that it had rolled to Isaac¡®s feet. Reaching out by reflex and keen not to be noticed, a foot stepped on the blister pack just as she reached out. She looked up to find Isaac¡®s impassive face. He was curious as to why she was so nervous, so he lifted his foot and picked up the blister pack. It had two cavities, but one pill had been taken, leaving just one. He turned it around and noted a brand he did not recognize. While he could not tell what pills were in there, the line of text at the bottom made it obvious. (Works best when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after intercourse.) He would be an idiot if he did not understand at that point. Looking down at the woman on the floor, he remained impassive, though his tone was at once sharp and ironic.¡± So, you were messing around with another man on your wedding night?¡± 1 At that very moment, he felt utter disgust toward her. On the other hand, Irene¡®s fingers curled as she restrained the shudder she was feeling, and slowly rose to her feet. She had no right to retort, but she said despite a soft quiver, ¡°I never wanted to marry you.¡± Isaac thought that she was lying and found her sickening, and flung the blister pack at her, slicing a faint cut at the corner of her eye. Irene had closed her eyes by instinct, but neither Isaac¡®s expression of anger nor the pain on her face hurt her more than the humiliation she suffered . Biting her lip, she arched her back and picked up the blister pack. The thin stic quickly deformed in her grip, cutting into her skin painfully. ¡°You like to mess around, right? I can help you arrange that.¡± With those words, Isaac left, and it took just one night for her to find out what he meant. Stan showed up at the mansion just as she was going to work. The Runaway Groom Chapter 7 The Runaway Groom Chapter 7 Chapter 7 ¡°Ms. Spencer? I¡®m Mr. Jefferson¡®s assistant. Come with me¨Che¡®s waiting for you.¡± Irene spaced out for a moment when she saw Stan, though she quickly looked away to hide the look of recognition on her face. Stan was the one who opened the door when she treated that patient in Zachary¡®s stead. If Stan was Isaac¡®s assistant , did that mean the patient was Isaac? ¡°Please, Ms. Spencer.¡± Stan¡®s tone became sterner when he saw that she was not moving. Putting away her thoughts, Irene replied, ¡°I have to go to work.¡± It was a clear refusal ¨C she had no intention of meeting that man. ¡°Please think about this carefully, Ms. Spencer. Given your status, you would not just lose your job if you make Mr. Jefferson upset ¨C you would have no chance of working as a doctor again.¡± It was a clear threat, and Irene was left clenching her fist. All her father did was offer to pay for the cost of her mother¡®s surgery. She had to pay for all other medical bills, so she certainly could not lose her job or career chances. Her only option was to go with Stan! ¡°Wait a moment. I need to apply for leave from the hospital.¡± After heading upstairs and making the call, Irene took a scalpel out of her drawer and put it in her handbag as a precaution, and headed downstairs after tidying her up. IV Soon, she was brought to a nightclub¨Cshe had never been to such ces where men and women were getting frisky everywhere. As they headed further inside, Irene overhead a couple of women chatting in the corner. ¡°Did you hear? The man having a business discussion with Isaac Jefferson on the VIP floor is a real pervert and a sicko.¡± ¡°Wasn¡¯t he the one who almost killed an escort?¡± ¡°Yeah, that¡®s the one.¡± ¡°Tut, tut. I wonder who is going to be so unlucky this time, but it¡®s fine as long as it¡®s not us. Did you know? Word is that the escort can no longer bear children although she survived-heaven knows what he did to her. PTT Irene felt the creeps from their words alone, especially when she heard Isaac¡®s name in their conversation. She started to panic, her palm sweating as they headed into an elevator. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org Seeing that her face was pale, Stan kindly reminded her,¡± You know how you forced Mr. Jefferson to marry you. Just sign the divorce papers, and you will be spared.¡± It was true that the proposal by her family could not be rejected since the Jeffersons did owe them, but the whole matter hinged on Irene being willing to take on the marriage. Nheless, Irene turned toward Stan, quivering just then she would not have bothered marrying Isaac if she had grounds to refuse, let alone allow Isaac humiliate her like this! Taking a deep breath, she strode out of the elevator. Stand frowned but said nothing as he led her to a luxury private room. Beneath the dimly lit room, Irene quickly saw Isaac and another man sitting on the couch. ¡°Oh!¡± the man eximed¨Cshe caught his eye the instant she entered, and he studied her from head to toe without a care before giving his critique. ¡°Not bad! Her skin is fair like a porcin doll, and that slim waist ... she must feel soft in your arms.¡± Beckoning, he said, ¡°Come, sit beside me.¡± Irene nced at Isaac, who was still leaning on his set, his legs folded elegantly and her face hidden in the darkness. She could not see anything at all. On the other hand, the other man had stood up and put a hand on her shoulder,ughing as he asked Isaac, ¡°Where did you find her? She looks much nicer than those escorts caking their faces with mascara. That clear, fresh look suits me better.¡± Isaac remained silent and did not stop him. Was that a silent approval? LU 111 Irene felt a chill in her heart, and her fingers clenched over her handbag. ¡°Do you drink?¡± the man asked, already putting a hand on her waist. Utterly repulsed, she moved away. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Don¡®t worry¨C I can teach you,¡± the man said, pouring a full ss of beer and holding it near her lips. She turned away, but the man pulled her by the waist even as she struggled. ¡°Let me go...¡± ¡°You are obliged to entertain me,¡± Isaac suddenly said, leaning forward and allowing the lights to entuate his form. Then, looking up with his cid gaze, his brow furrowed ruthlessly, ¡°If you can¡®t do it, then you can pack your bags and leave!¡± She thought that his loathing towards her was limited to ignoring her existence. She did not think that he could be this despicable! ¡°I¡®ll drink,¡± she said, pushing away the man but taking the ss he was holding. Her movement was hesitant , but she soon chugged it anyway. This was her first time drinking alcohol, and since she drank it so quickly, it left a zing trail all the way from her mouth to her gullet. The burning sensation left her pretty brows furrowed, but it only added to her charm. The man became impatient. ¡°Can I take her with me, Mr. Jefferson?¡± LI Irene was stunned and wanted to run right then, but looked up into a pair of eyes as dark as the moon. It gave her pause, even as she realized that the man meant to humiliate her anyway. Soon, Isaac turned away.¡±... Do whatever you want.¡± The man beamed, and promptly wrapped his hands around Irene. This time, she did not struggle as she followed the man out of the room. Stan approached Isaac then. ¡°Sir, they¡®re gone... but with Harvey Gooding, she probably wouldn¡®t be able to fend for herself...¡± The goal was to make her give in and divorce willingly by putting her in an awkward spot... They were not going to let her lose her chaste just like that, were they? Isaac simply poured himself a ss of beer, and chugged it with a dark look. ¡°Did you really think that she¡®s chaste?¡± Stan was left gaping in shock. Was the Spencer family really that greedy? They would actually throw broken goods at them?! He felt furious right then¨Che had actually sympathized with Irene a little at first, but it seemed that his sympathy was misced. ¡°But she¡®s not willing to get a divorce even though we¡®re clearly harassing her¡­ I don¡®t think she¡®ll give in easily,¡± Stan pointed out. Does that mean she wastching on to the Jeffersons no matter what happened? ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± ¡°Let¡®s go,¡± Isaac growled, cutting him short. The calmness of his expression made it clear that he did not want to hear anymore about Irene, so Stan stayed tactfully silent as he opened the door for him. In his car, Isaac watched as the streetlights streaked past, but all he could think about was the scene of that woman willingly leaving with Harvey. She knew what was going to happen, but willingly yed along? ¡°Turn around,¡± he growled. Stan did a double take, but quickly caught his meaning and turned the car around. They quickly returned to the nightclub, but the staff told them that they were already gone. Isaac was glowering as he barked at Stan to head back to the mansion-Irene was not there either. ¡°Go, start a search¨C¡± Isaac began, though the door soon opened behind him, and Irene¡®s voice could soon be heard. ¡°Mrs. Watson...¡± Irene was such a bad drinker that she was intoxicated after one ss. If she did not have immense composure and self¨Ccontrol thanks to her job, she really would not have made it back. She soon saw Mrs. Watson standing there, seemingly afraid to approach her. ¡°Mrs. Watson ...¡± She was going to call for Mrs. Watson again, when she finally noticed the man standing in the living room. The Runaway Groom Chapter 8 The Runaway Groom Chapter 8 Chapter 8 Did he not just leave her with that pervert? Why would he show up here? Tough at her? Haha! ¡°Isaac Jefferson?¡± Irene snapped, pointing at the man despite the killing intent swirling around him, boosted by liquid courage and not knowing fear just then. ¡°You are... a real bastard!¡± Isaac¡®s face turned dark instantly, while Stan and Mrs. Watson kept their heads down in fearful silence. Even so, Irene shambled forward, grabbing Isaac¡®s necktie and pulling him toward herself. ¡°You thought I wanted to marry you? You think you¡¯re some sort of god?¡± The alcoholic fumes she breathed left Isaac frowning, and anger brewed in his eyes as he deftly caught her wrist.¡± You¡®re crazy.¡± She was willing to y along with any man. He had tried to corner her and make her ask for a divorce, but she was as dumb as a donkey and refused to yield. Still, he had changed his mind after she left with Harvey -regardless of what had happened, she was his wife, even if he felt repulsed that she had been defiled. ¡°You¡®re the crazy one.¡± Irene¡®s hands never stopped wing at him drunkenly, in retaliation against Isaac for letting that man molest her! Glowering, Isaac dragged her upstairs by the wrist, even as she tried to shake him off. ¡°Let me go! Let me go...¡± Bang! He kicked open the bedroom door and flung her inside, causing her to stumble and drop to her knees. ¡°Ah... Urgh...¡± she moaned as she clutched her kneecaps, and her voice gave Isaac pause. That voice¡­ His mind seemed to return to that night for a split second. She sounded a lot like Whitney? Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Isaac Jefferson!¡± Back in the present, Irene looked up to re hatefully at him. Not only was he spiteful, but he was also violent-she was already bleeding from her knees. Isaac came to his senses as he met her gaze. Striding inside and narrowing his eyes, he growled, ¡°You aren¡¯t drunk, are you?¡± As a matter of fact, Irene was drunk, but her head was clear. She pushed herself off the ground with both hands, but her ankles caved and she stumbled , so she had to catch something beside her to maintain her bnce. However, though she had managed to maintain her bnce, she suddenly felt a coldness filling the room. She slowly looked up to find Isaac¡®s dark, icy gaze, and realized that she had caught his pants with both hands, which would have slipped off if it was not for his belt. Even so, that already left Isaac¡®s business attire a mess from all her pulling and iling. Irene quickly let go, but the legs of his pants were already wrinkled and ppy. Flustered , she averted her eyes. ¡°I¨CI didn¡®t mean to do that.¡± Isaac breathed a chilling chuckle. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Wait... She shot Isaac a re. ¡°What are you talking about? ¡°What, you don¡®t know yourself? Your own character ?¡± His question and contempt stung Irene in the heart, but it could not be denied that he had seen the morning after pills, and knew that she had cheated on him. The thought of that night left her flinching, but she maintained a calm look. She tried to avoid it, afraid that someone would find out... and in turn be humiliated because of that. ¡°Nothing to say now? You really want to jump any man you can reach, don¡®t you?¡± Isaac growled with a sinister re as he grabbed her neck. ¡°Tell me! How the hell is this possible? How could you cheat on me, and still stubbornly refuse to divorce me?!¡± There was a murderous intent in his words ¨C Isaac Jefferson¡®s wife was damaged goods! It was the worst humiliation he had ever suffered in his life! Irene was choking. Her face, which was already scarlet from all that alcohol, became redder as she gasped for breath, her chest heaving repeatedly. She struggled, squeezing what air remained out of her throat as she wheezed, ¡°Let... Go...¡± As she iled violently, two buttons snapped off her blouse and fell audibly onto the floor. Isaac looked down, his eyes darting straight past her pretty corbones to her ckcy bra, and he was soon left staring at her breasts that were threatening to burst out¡­ Meanwhile, Irene was still gasping. ¡°Ah...¡± Her hair was a mess, dangling loosely beside her ears, while her raspy, uneven breathing was somehow seductive... Realizing that he had been staring for too long, Isaac quickly turned away. He was frowning heavily, and swallowing nervously without noticing it as he worked hard to control his emotions. LI He was actually feeling aroused by a woman with loose morals? It sickened him! Feeling angry at himself, he flung her onto the bed. He was actually interested in a woman as unseemly as her! He must have lost his mind! Turning around, he hurried downstairs. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Stan quickly ran up to Isaac when he saw him, but said nothing as Isaac strode outside. Stan jogged along to keep up as they returned to the car and drove off, gingerly ncing behind at Isaac from time to time. What had gotten into him? What had gotten him so furious? Back at the mansion, Irene was lying in bed and gulping in mouthfuls of oxygen, finally able to breathe again. She clutched her chest for a moment there, she really thought that Isaac was going to kill her. Bleurgh The alcohol in her gut suddenly churned, causing a violent gag reflex due to asphyxiation. She rushed to the washroom and heaved the mother of all pukes, though she felt much better afterward. Rinsing her mouth, she theny in bed without taking a bath. She was too drowsy and exhausted, and her eyes slowly closed as she fell asleep unwittingly. The next day, when Isaac arrived at work at the Light Group offices, his secretary approached him, saying, ¡°Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Gooding is asking to see you.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 9 The Runaway Groom Chapter 9 Chapter 9 ¡°Tell him I said no. And get me a coffee,¡± Isaac growled as he strode into his own office, heading straight for his desk. ¡°But Mr. Gooding said that he won¡®t leave unless you see him...¡± Isaac turned to look at his secretary, who quickly lowered her head. ¡°Bring him here,¡± he said, before sitting down and unbuttoning his suit. Soon, the secretary returned with Harvey and Isaac¡®s coffee. Harvey appeared very upset, and snapped at Isaac immediately, ¡°Where did you find that woman?¡± Isaac picked up his coffee and gestured for his secretary to leave, before finally looking up at Harvey. ¡°Look what she did!¡± Harvey continued, pointing at a distinct sh mark on his neck, before showing the bandage on his wrist. ¡°She almost cut off my tendons, too!¡± Isaac¡¯s gaze darted between Harvey¡®s injuries, feeling slightly delighted just then. Although he knew the answer, he asked, ¡°What happened?¡± Harvey appeared traumatized. ¡°That woman had a scalpel ! And she was somehow breathtakingly efficient with it! The doctor at the hospital told me she¡®d barely missed my jugr! Honestly, I almost died before getting any action.... That¡®s why I¡®m asking again¡ªwhere did you find that woman?¡± On the other hand, Isaac was in a good mood to hear that Harvey did not manage to get his way with Irene. Leaning on his chair, he maintained his usual aloof visage as he asked, ¡°Why are you looking for her?¡± ¡°For revenge, of course!¡± Harvey eximed indignantly, since he had never been humiliated this much. Moreover, Irene did not tell him anything about herself, so she remained an enigma. ¡°If it¡®s for revenge, you¡®ll have to find her yourself.¡± Harvey was stumped for a moment, but soon snarled viciously, ¡°Fine, I¡®lle up with something! If I get to her first, I¡®ll cripple her hands¨C let¡®s see how she¡®ll swing a scalpel then!¡± At the hospital, Irene had just stepped out of the examination room when she shivered from a mysterious chill. Was someone cursing her? ¡°Dr. Spencer? We¡®re putting together a farewell party for Dr. Cox at eight tonight, at Wing B of Grand Court Hotel. Don¡®t miss it!¡± a colleague reminded her upon seeing her. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. She was keeping her hands inside her whiteb coat, and thinking to herself that she really did not want to go. Moreover, the thought that Whitney and Isaac were somehow acquainted left her cold inside. Nheless , she headed to Grand Court Hotel at eight anyway, but spotted a car stopping near the entrance just as she was about to head in. Whitney alighted, and Isaac soon followed. Irene quickly hid behind a pir, poking her head out slightly to peek at them. They did look like a good match for one another as they stood side¨Cby¨Cside. She could tell that Isaac really liked Whitney too, since he was willing to show up at an asion like this. That being said, everyone at the hospital would be showing up at the farewell party today as well, would they not? ¡°Thanks foring today.¡± Whitney had put on extensive makeup and a stylish gown, and there was a hint of shyness in her tone. ¡°We¡®re friends, aren¡®t we?¡± Isaac replied, but he was only attending the part because of their night of shared passion. Whitney would certainly like it if they could get even more intimate , but her rejection of his offer before was now a wall between them, so she had to be tactful. ¡°Let¡®s go inside.¡± Irene stepped out from the pir when they finally left. She was repulsed by the idea of being around Isaac, and after much consideration, she decided to call Whitney to exin that she could not make it because of an emergency. She took out her phone, but just as she was to make the call, a colleague approached her from behind, calling out, ¡°Dr. Spencer.¡± Up front, Whitney turned around. Irene stiffened in response, and identally pressed the dial button. By the time she realized what was happening, Whitney¡®s phone was already ringing. Irene quickly hung up and pursed her lips. ¡°Sorry, wrong button.¡± Be that as it may, Isaac turned because of his familiarity with her voice, and he immediately spotted Irene standing nearby, lookingughably stupid as she still held her cell phone. He could not help raising a brow. She worked at Charity Hospital too? Meanwhile, Whitney smiled warmly. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Even as she spoke, she inched closer to Isaac. Since Isaac had demanded that she not let the public find out that she was his wife, Irene simply pretended that they were unacquainted. ¡°Is this gentleman your boyfriend?¡± She smiled, her dewy eyes as clear as they were dazzling. Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org. Whitney smiled but said nothing, so that others would simply think that Isaac was. Isaac did not deny it either, because he had his eyes on Irene, eager to see how she would react. Irene simplyughed lightly and showered them with ttery. ¡°Honestly, you two look like the perfect couple a match made in heaven!¡± For some reason, Isaac suddenly had the urge to tear that smile off her face! However, Irene knew how ruthless he could be, so she quickly made her retreat. ¡°I¡®ll be heading in, then¨CI shouldn¡®t impose.¡± She quickly called out to the colleague who had greeted her just now, and then hurried into the hotel. Nheless , when they managed to put some distance between themselves and Isaac, the colleague quietly said, ¡°That man is the head of Light Group. He¡®s young but already aplished, so I really envy Dr. Cox for having the good fortune of dating him.¡± Irene stayed silent, so the colleague continued,¡± Honestly, how could a man as perfect as hime to be? He¡®s rich, and has the looks and the body.¡± ¡°How would you know that he¡®s perfect? He might actually be crazy,¡± Irene could not help retorting calling him crazy was already being kind to him, especially when he had almost strangled her. The colleague could not help chuckling. As they entered Wing B, Irene decided that she must give it to Whitney. After all, everyone in the hospital ¨C including the chief¨Cwas invited to her farewell party, upying every table in Wing B. Irene was heading for the furthest table from the center when the chief called out to her. ¡°Dr. Spencer! Come, sit with us!¡± She turned to find Isaac looking at her as well, and promptly shed a smile. ¡°Actually, ....¡± ¡°Come on.¡± The chief simply pulled her along and made her sit at the same table, though it felt like she was sitting on a carpet of needles instead. IL While she was afraid to even look up, the chief nudged her and made introductions. ¡°Dr. Spencer is Dr. Cox¡®s former ssmate and current colleague. Since Dr. Cox is leaving us soon, let¡®s drink to her sess.¡± ¡°She doesn¡®t drink,¡± Isaac suddenly said. His words left everyone stunned. Irene did not drink? How would Isaac know that?! Irene-was stunned as well, and looked up to see a vague smile on Isaac¡®s face. Her knuckles balled into fists beneath the table ¨C what was he up to this time?! Whitney sensed something unusual as well, but took no notice and simply pretended that she was hearing things. She maintained a faint smile from start to finish to present herself as a generous host, saying, ¡°Well, drinking isn¡®t good for our jobs. Also, Dr. Spencer and I have always been close, and I¡®ll miss her when I¡®m gone.¡± E That was when Isaac¡®s phone suddenly started ringing. He picked up and listened to the voice on the other end for a while. ¡°Understood,¡± he said and quickly hung up. He had barely put away his phone when Irene¡®s phone rang as well. She answered it and quickly heard the Jeffersons¡¯ butler speaking to her. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, could you pleasee by Jefferson Manor? Master Jefferson wishes to meet you immediately.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied before putting away her phone and telling Whitney, ¡°Sorry, something urgent has juste up, and I have to go... Anyway, here¡®s a toast to your sess. It isn¡®t alcohol, but I¡®m sure tea would do.¡± With those words, she picked up her cup of tea and chugged it. As she rose to her feet, Isaac, whose eyes were still locked on her, resisted an outright yful smile. ¡°What a coincidence, something urgent hase up for me as well. Shall we leave together?¡± Irene was speechless, but she did not know that Isaac had been getting irritated with her pretending not to know him. Still, he would like to see how long she could keep pretending , even as everyone else turned to look at her. The Runaway Groom Chapter 10 The Runaway Groom Chapter 10 Chapter 10 Everyone was actually puzzled¨C it was too much of a coincidence for both Isaac and Irene to suddenly have urgent business to attend to, right? Whitney sensed that something was amiss as well. Sure, she might really have been hearing things the first time, but what about now? Her gaze darted between Isaac and Irene, as if trying to see through them. Deciding to test the waters, she asked, ¡°What¡®s the matter, Dr. Spencer?¡± Irene really wanted nothing less than to tell Whitney that she was Isaac¡®s wife, and leave the necessary exnations to Isaac. Naturally, she would never dare, because he was a man she could not afford to provoke. She had already lost the chance to work at Central Hospital-she could not afford to lose her job now. As such, she had to keep her head down. ¡°It¡¯s my grandfather. I think it¡®s something serious, so I have to go... I¡®m surprised that Mr. Jefferson is busy as well. What a coincidence, hahaha...¡± She was chuckling dryly in an attempt tough it off, but Isaac stubbornly tried to expose her again. ¡°What a coincidence , my grandfather called me too. Where does your grandfather live? I¡®ll give you a lift if it¡®s convenient. Irene¡®s smile almost faded right then. If it was not for her immense self¨Ccontrol, she would have picked up her cup from the table and smashed it in his face! ¡°Oh, you¡®re so funny, Mr. Jefferson. Surely it can¡®t be convenient for you anyway, I really have to go. Please enjoy yourself, Mr. Jefferson.¡± With those words, she basically fled the scene. Feeling insecure, Whitney turned toward Isaac, many unspoken questions in her eyes. ¡°You know her?¡± Isaac¡®s visage remained aloof. ¡°No, I don¡®t,¡± he replied, but it was as if he was not the one speaking those words. With that, he rose to his feet. Whitney was relieved inwardly. She had invited Isaac to her farewell party to brag in front of everyone at Charity Hospital. While things had somehow taken a bizarre turn, Isaac¡®s presence made it clear to everyone that she and Isaac were linked. ¡°I¡®ll see you off,¡± Whitney said as she followed Isaac, worried that he woulde in contact with Irene without her knowing After all, it was Irene who was on duty at the hospital that night. When Isaac stepped out of the hotel, he looked around but could not find Irene anyway. In reality, she had left in a taxi, since she was very eager to keep her distance from him and certainly would not wait for him. Nearby, Stan opened the door for Isaac, ¡°Mr. Jefferson?¡± Isaac nced at Whitney. ¡°You should go back now.¡± With that, he got into his car, leaving Whitney behind. As she watched his car drive into the distance, she felt a pang of regret¨Cif she had known this would happen, she should have asked for marriage immediately, and she would be Mrs. Jefferson now. When would she finally win Isaac¡®s heart? When could he see her virtues, and then fall for her? Irene arrived at the main Jefferson residence before Isaac, where she met Henry Jefferson¨Cthe head of the Jefferson family. He was in his eighties, his wrinkled face showing a steadyposure despite the passage of time. Though his eyes had lost the sparkle of youth, he was spirited and projected kindliness. ¡°Are you getting ustomed to your new environment?¡± he asked in concern. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± Irene replied. While her father was the one who had proposed an arranged marriage between her and Isaac, everyone had thought that Henry would have refused it. After all, Isaac was his favorite grandson, and since Henry knew that Isaac despised her, he should have refused for Isaac¡®s sake, and offered some other form of profit to change her father¡®s mind¨Che did owe the Spencers a life debt, after all. And yet, not only did Henry agree to it, but he had even used his connections in Isaac¡®s absence to officiate the marriage documentation for her and Isaac. In fact, he was the one who told her to stay at Isaac¡¯s mansion as well. Even now, Irene was actually confused as to why Henry would do something like that. ¡°Isaac didn¡¯t harass you, did he?¡± the man asked tenderly then.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Irene really wanted to tell him that his grandson was inhuman, but she understood that in spite of Henry¡®s kindness, Isaac was still his grandson. ¡°No...¡± She had barely finished when Isaac entered, and Henry promptly snapped at him, ¡°You¡®re Irene¡®s husband. Why aren¡®t you with her thiste into the night? Why did you arrive sote after Irene?¡± Isaac nced sideways at Irene but said nothing ¨C Henry was saying all that for Irene¡®s benefit , because he knew very well that Isaac was unhappy with the marriage arranged against his consent. ¡°You¡®re both staying here tonight. Moneypenny will show you to your room.¡± The butler nearby nodded respectfully. ¡°Very well, sir,¡± he said, and beckoned invitingly to Irene. ¡°If you could pleasee with me, Mrs. Jefferson.¡± Irene sneaked a peek at Isaac, and saw that he remained aloof and was still not looking at her. Subtly turning away, she left with Moneypenny, leaving the grandson alone with his grandfather. Henry spoke again then, and his elder voice was filled with heartfelt sincerity and helplessness. ¡°I understand you¡®re feeling much grief and spite right now, but it¡®s already in the past. It¡®s time to let go.¡± The thought of the distant past seemed to make Henry¡®s gaze darken, but Isaac simply sat there nonchntly, keeping his lips tightly pursed in silence, his expression unfathomable. Sighing, the old man continued, ¡°I was the one who agreed to have you marry Irene, so stop ming me for deciding on my own. I¡®m doing this for your own good you¡®re old enough to start a family, and even if it was disgraceful of Irene¡®s father to coerce us, Irene is a good girl.¡± Isaac raised a brow, coldness filling his visage right then. What good girl would cuck her husband?! However, he did not tell his grandfather about that, because he had set his mind on divorcing her. Watching his reaction, Henry sighed inwardly. He was the only one in the family whom Isaac would listen to, or Isaac would not have bothered to come tonight. Ever since the death of his parents, Isaac had always kept to himsell, and was reluctant to return to Jefferson Manor more often than not. Not keen on pushing him too far either, Henry waved him off feebly. ¡°It¡¯ste now. Go get some rest.¡± Isaac rose to his feet, and Moneypenny just happened to return. ¡°Master Isaac.¡± ¡°Hmm,¡± Isaac grunted tly as he left the room. Walking up to Henry, Monepenny asked softly, ¡°Is this really going to work, Master Jefferson?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Henry replied. ¡°Even if he has a heart of stone, he¡®s only human, and he¡®d feel desire just as humans do. What, are you saying that he wouldn¡®t feel a man¡®s instincts and impulses around a beautiful woman?¡± Moneypenny was still worried. ¡°But sir, you know that Master Isaac has a temper. He could definitely tell that you were trying to get him to share a room with Mrs. Jefferson.¡± ¡°Well, how are they going to develop feelings if they don¡®te in contact? I can¡®t manage him outside, but here in my house, he¡®ll still listen to me,¡± Henry said quietly, though he felt guilty toward Isaac too. He then added enigmatically , ¡°How much longer can I live anyway? He needs someone to care for him.¡± ¡°Master Isaac will eventually definitely understand your sincerity, sir,¡± Moneypenny said, and helped Henry return to his room. Moneypenny had brought Irene to Isaac¡¯s room in Jefferson Manor, and before he left, he told her that it was the room where Isaac had grown up in, although the central section had been renovated once. Still, the interior decoration of the room was different from the mansion. This ce was much darker with its ck and gray hues, projecting a cold atmosphere devoid of any warmth. She looked around, and inadvertently found a curious box. It seemed like something that would appeal to a girl more than a boy, and stuck out like a sore thumb from the interior of the room. However, just as she was about to check it out, a stern, cold voice bellowed from behind, ¡°What do you think you¡®re doing?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 11 The Runaway Groom Chapter 11 Chapter 11 The sudden bellow startled Irene, and as she spun around, she inadvertently knocked the box, sending it crashing to the floor with a loud bang! Isaac was ring at her, and he appeared at once incensed and murderous! Flustered, she quickly exined, ¡°I¨CIt was an ident...¡± She dropped to a crouch and tried to pick it up, but she felt something catching her wrist before she could reach the box, and the weight behind the grip threatened to crush her bones. It was agony¨Cher hand could have fallen off just then, and she was sweating from the pain. ¡°Keep your dirty hands away from it!¡± Isaac yelled in rage, his eyes red as he promptly flung Irene away. Caught off guard, she stumbled backward and hit her head against the corner of a wardrobe nearby. The ensuing pain seemed to cut into her heart and numbed her. There was a dull ring in her head, and she could feel something warm flowing out¨Cshe reached out and felt around the back of her head, and felt a stickiness. Unsurprisingly, it was blood, but it was not much. She looked up, and saw between her disheveled locks of hair that Isaac was carefully picking up the box, and his reaction alone made it obvious how important the box was to him. He opened it, fearful that the contents were destroyed, and carefully studied it. Still, it appeared that the box had protected the contents. He felt a sense of relief, but the thought that Irene almost broke it left his temper ring¨Cso much so that he could kill her! Turning to re at her with red, murderous eyes, he roared, ¡°You really want me to kill you, don¡®t you?!¡± On the other hand, Irene got to her feet with much difficulty. Her numbness had dissipated, but now it was sheer pain gnawing at her nerves, and she stopped herself from shaking as she said, ¡°Sorry...¡± She could see that the box was a treasure to Isaac. ¡°Sorry? You think sorry would cut it?¡± To him, she was as shameless as she was conceited! Even as he closed in on her, the crushing pressure that his mere presence projected left Irene panicking and retreating fearfully. Thud, She was cornered against the wall, even as she murmured fearfully, ¡°S¨CStop...¡± Even so, Isaac seized her chin with a pincerlike grip, and Irene thought she heard the sounds of bones dislocating. It hurt so much that she could not make a sound, and all she could do was look at him in terror. And he was certainly terrifying, like a reaper straight from hell¨Chis presence making one¡®s blood run cold! As he closed in, his terrible presence seemed to enfold Irene. She tried to struggle but could not, even as he breathed into her ears, ¡°I will destroy everything you¡®ve ever cared about!¡± The emphasis he ced in the word ¡®destroy¡® left her shuddering, and that was when he tossed her aside again. She tumbled like a frameless puppet, and she would have fallen on the floor again if she was not against the floor. Her legs were shaking even as she tried to stand, her body never leaving the wall because there would be nothing else keeping her standing otherwise. Meanwhile, Isaac returned the box to where it was. There was a photo frame beside it, holding a picture of him and his parents. Irene nced toward it without meaning to, and her eyes lingered for two seconds. However, just as she found the contents of the box a little familiar, Isaac roared at her before she could get a good look, ¡°Get out!¡± Flustered , Irene quickly headed for the door before she could satisfy her curiosity¨Cthere was a chance Isaac would kill her if she lingered in the room! Nheless, after she left the room, Isaac¡®s cruel visage eased as he looked at the contents of the box, a rare tenderness showing in his eyes. His heart turned cold after his parents¡® passing, and the owner of these objects were thest bastion that retained any Warmth he had in his heart. Even if more than ten years had passed, he remembered the little figure and the determination as she dragged him along despite the exertion. Her eyes were the clearest, purest eyes she had ever seen. In the water, her body¡®s heat allowed his ice¨Ccold heart to feel a hint of warmth. Outside the room, Irene was holding a hand over her forehead when Henry rushed to the scene. Seeing her pale face, he asked, ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°I got a little bruise,¡± she said softly. Henry scowled. He was aware of Isaac¡®s poor temper... but he should not go so far as to hit a woman, should he? ¡°What happened?¡± he asked. ¡°I identally touched a box...¡± ¡°The one beside a family photo?¡± Henry quickly asked. ¡°Yes.¡± Irene nodded. LLLLLL Understanding what had happened right then, Henry sighed. ¡°I don¡®t think I can help you on this one... That box matters so much to him that I wouldn¡®t touch him myself.¡± Likewise, Irene understood how precious the box was to Isaac, especially when he kept it beside a photo of histe parents. She used to have something precious as well ¡ª the first birthday present she received from herte grandfather but she lost it. She was not sure how she had lost it either, but when she was seven, her grandfather had brought her here to Jefferson Manor. She was too young to understand what was happening aside from there being a funeral, or who had just died¨Cshe only found out that it was Isaac¡®s parents¡® funeral. A child as carefree as any other, she ran off for a stroll in the vast back garden. She was climbing a boulder when she saw a woman throwing a boy into the pond. The boy looked like he was barely ten years old, and it was the first time she had seen the wickedness of human nature. She was naturally afraid and wanted to run, but as she watched the boy struggle to survive , she waited for the woman to leave before jumping into the pond herself. L1 III Though she had learned to swim before, it took everything she had, and she had almost drowned herself. In fact, she managed to pull the boy to the edge of the pond but failed to pull him out, and it was thanks to his grandfather¡®s timely arrival that she and the boy were saved. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org The boy had fainted, but thanks to her and her grandfather¡®s efforts, he spat out mouthfuls of water and stirred. That was when her grandfather pulled her along and ran away, and she was naturally confused as to why he was so afraid. ¡°Who was that boy, Gramps ?¡± she asked in curiosity.¡± Why is someone trying to hurt him?¡± ¡°He came to attend the funeral just like you,¡± her grandfather replied, and warned her repeatedly, ¡°Forget everything that happened today. Don¡®t say a word, no matter who asks.¡± She did not know that her grandfather was lying in fear of reprisals, but she obeyed him regardless. When she got home, she realized that she had lost her silver crucifix, which her grandfather had given her. He had always told her that it was a token of his blessing to her, and a symbol of his hopes for her to be a virtuous person of optimism,passion, and magnanimity... She had worn that silver crucifix since she was a year old, and therefore understood Isaac¡®s wrath without feeling grievance in return. Even so, she felt genuine terror toward him now¨C he was just too violent! ¡°Moneypenny, could you please ask Dr. te toe by and examine Irene?¡± Henry said then. His voice brought Irene back to her senses, and she quickly said, ¡°It¡®s fine. Is there a first aid kit around here? I can do this myself.¡± She knew that she was not hurt that seriously, and when she saw Henry¡®s doubtful gaze, she said, ¡°Don¡®t worry, I¡®m a doctor.¡± Noting her confidence, the old man noddedit was true that it was just a small cut. It was nothing serious, though it drew blood since it was a little deep, With a mirror, she cleaned it and left it be. Keeping pressure on cuts actually worked against recovery, so she did not bandage it¨Cnot that she could apply a band¨Caid or bandage a spot enfolded beneath her hair. Meanwhile , Moneypenny nced inside the washroom where Irene was. Ensuring that she was out of earshot, he whispered to Henry, ¡°Sir, Mrs. Jefferson has just married into the family, and yet she was hurt right under your nose. I¡®m afraid Master Isaac would be even worse away from here... He did not go into specifics, but Henry understood. ¡°If pushes to shove, and she decides to divorce Isaac because she can¡®t stand his outbursts... We would have to y our hand.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 12 The Runaway Groom Chapter 12 Chapter 12 Henry had already put a n together, and it took Moneypenny a while to get it. ¡°Is that why you asked me to find a heart donor¨C¡± He had barely finished when Irene stepped out of the restroom with the first aid kit. Moneypenny promptly turned silent, while Henry leaned against his cane to rise to his feet, and told Irene, ¡°Come with me.¡± He was heading to his study, and Irene put the first aid kit on a table before following him. Sitting behind therge desk in the study, sadness showed in Henry¡®s eyes as he told her, ¡°Isaac¡®s father passed away very early, and while I raised him, he always lived away from home since he studied at a boarding school. He moved out right after graduating university to take over thepany, too, and is so busy he basically neveres home.¡± There was quietness in Henry¡¯s voice. Isaac¡¯s father was his eldest son, and no matter how long had passed, he still felt miserable about his passing because no father should ever have to bury his son. He also knew that Isaac had his reason for noting home, and he could foresee what Isaac would do to his uncle¡®s family after his death. In fact, Isaac held back this long because he still respected Henry, and he needed a woman to make him learn to feel... So that he would give up on hatred. They were all his flesh and blood, and he did not want them ughtering each other. ¡°Sir¡­¡± Irene murmured, unsure of how to reassure him. There was no question that Henry had been good to her. Even though she was forced to marry into this family because of Lionel¡®s greed, Henry never held her in contempt. Raising a handle to assure her she had nothing to worry about, he continued, ¡°The reason I agreed to let you marry Isaac is because I know that you are a good child, just as your grandfather had been loyal and kind. You are his granddaughter, and his blood runs in your veins that is why I wanted you to stay with Isaac and care for him.¡± ¡°Sir, I believe that it would be ideal for him if he had someone he loves with him instead¡­¡± Irene¡¯s words were her earnest opinion. From Henry¡®s perspective, however, she seemed to be giving up and making excuses to leave Isaac, But having lived this long, was there any situation he had not encountered? In fact, it was actually easy to convince her. ¡°I understand that you have your difficulties,¡± he said as he drew out a document from his drawer and handed it to her. ¡°Your mother is ill, and she requires a donor match for a heart transnt. I happened to have found a match, and I¡®ve spoken to the right people. Sign this agreement, and the surgery is a go¨C I will pay for everything, including the surgical cost as well as any other medical fees involved.¡± Irene was at first delighted, though she soon thought to herself that things would never be that simple. Scanning through the agreement, she realized that it was a contract to keep her from divorcing Isaac. And the old man certainly knew how to hold leverage against her, so that she would stay with Isaac. ¡°I heard that your mother¡®s condition is worsening, and would be beyond saving if the transnt is dyed any further. Heart donors are not that easily found even with money, which you don¡®t have.¡± Irene¡®s fingers clenched on the paper in her hands, feeling at a loss for what she should do. Still, the real reason Henry called her here now dawned upon her. ¡°Why do you think I can care for him, sir?¡± ¡°Like I said¨Cyou¡®re Tim¡®s granddaughter. I trust you.¡± Irene tried to stay calm, but she was too flustered to do so. It was true that her mother¡®s illness could not wait, and she would have a better chance of survival with early surgery. Since she was married to Isaac anyway, she agreed to it for the sake of her mother¡®s survival. ¡°I will sign it.¡± ¡°Good. Trust me¨Cmy judge in character is right, and you¡®ll definitely make Isaac happy.¡± A smile finally appeared on Henry¡®s solemn face. Even so, Irene kept her lips tightly pursed and stayed silent, convinced that Henry was wrong¨Cthat Whitney was the one who could give Isaac happiness. Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org. Not her. After she signed the paper, Henry picked up the phone, saying, ¡°I¡®ll contact the hospital right now, and tell them to perform the transnt for your mother soon.¡± Irene stood there, at once expectant and nervous. After Henry finished his call, she asked, ¡°May I go to the hospital too, sir?¡± It was a daughter¡¯s care and concern for her sick mother, so he allowed it. ¡°Of course. Go on.¡± He could not help sighing as well, since he knew that there was no way Isaac would let Irene into his room after the mess just now. ¡°Thank you, sir.¡± Irene was earnestly grateful. Henry waved her off and told the butler who was waiting outside the door, ¡°Moneypenny, get a car for her.¡± ¡°Pleasee with me, Mrs. Jefferson ,¡± the butler told Irene, and she left with him. On the way to the hospital, Irene felt like she was in a dream-everything had happened so quickly that it actually felt unreal. Nheless, when she arrived and saw that the old man had arranged everything perfectly, she realized that this was reality, and it was no dream. Her mother was really getting a transnt! Soon, after a night of near misses, the transnt was a sess. Although there would be a long period of observation and rehabilitation afterward, relief could be seen on Irene¡®s face. Though her mother was lying in a ward for post-surgery observation, her mother¡¯s life was saved. Having gone sleepless for the entire night, she headed straight to her clinic when someone called out to her. ¡°Dr. Spencer?¡± She turned to find Ms. Diaz, a nurse from her department,ing up and telling her, ¡°It was fortunate that you left earlyst night ¨C Dr. Cox was so full of herself that she could not stop boasting, now that she has a backer.¡± Irene averted her gaze ¨C she was not eager toment on Whitney. ¡°Honestly, she¡®s not even as beautiful as you are, Dr. Spencer. What does Isaac Jefferson even like about her?¡± Seeing that Ms. Diaz was going to keep gossiping , Irene became reluctant to stay. ¡°But she¡®s beautiful, and there must be something about her that is attractive to Mr. Jefferson. Let¡®s not gossip so much behind their backs.¡± Ms. Diaz seemed to not hear her and was actually pouting. ¡°They call it a farewell party, but it¡®s more like a party for her to brag about herself. Everyone knew that the internship spot was supposed to be yours,¡± ¡°Sorry, Ms. Diaz, but I have something to attend to.¡± Irene cut her short¨Cit would not do if anyone overheard them, and it could easily cause a misunderstanding. Finally sensing her reluctance to gossip, Ms. Diaz stopped, and they each returned to their respective posts. Mornings were the busiest time for hospitals anyway, and there was already a long row of patients waiting to take a number at the registration counter. Irene had two surgeries in the morning, and took a two hour break before performing. After that, herck of sleep left her exhausted, but just as she tried to nap during her lunch break, a nurse came to her. ¡°The chief is asking for you in his office.¡± ¡°Is it urgent?¡± she asked¨Cshe would goter if it was not. ¡°I don¡®t know.¡± The nurse smiled. ¡°I¡®m just the messenger. Guess you¡®ll find out if you head over.¡± ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll be right there,¡± Irene replied, and headed to the chief¡®s office. She knocked on the door, and opened the door only after she heard a response inside. ¡°Sir.¡± The chief was sitting behind his desk, and put aside his task when he saw that it was her. He stayed silent for a moment, seemingly having trouble starting, but he knew he had to. ¡°Dr. Spencer ... Did you somehow offend Mr. Jefferson?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 13 The Runaway Groom Chapter 13 Chapter 13 ¡°What? Why would you ask that, sir?¡± Irene asked, a foreboding sensation hitting her just then. ¡°You should know what it means to be cklisted...¡± the chief said hesitantly. ¡°Your career as a doctor¨C including your aplishments¨Cwould all be erased, and no hospital would hire you.¡± Irene was left bbergasted by the situation that struck out of the blue. She clenched and freed her knuckles repeatedly, until she finally said, ¡°Sir, I really love this job ... I can¡®t go without it.¡± ¡°I want to keep you, but there is nothing I can do for you. In reality, the chief found it a pity¨Che acknowledged and admired Irene¡®s professionalism and abilities, but he did not have the ability to help her. ¡°If you want to keep your job, you have to talk to Isaac Jefferson . Apologize to him if you offended him, and it just might save your career,¡± the chief told her earnestly. ¡°I...¡± Irene was hesitant to say anything. After all, could Isaac¡®s prejudice against her be that easily resolved? She understood that he wasing for blood, not just because he wanted to get back at her for touching something precious to him, but also because he was dissatisfied with marrying her. He probably would force her to ask for a divorce in the process as well. Taking a deep breath, she said, ¡°I understand.¡± ¡°You are on your own on this own,¡± the chief said, leaving her dispirited as she returned to her clinic. She expected that things would not work out even if she begged Isaac for mercy, because he wanted her to divorce him¡­ But she had signed an agreement with Henry, and she would be viting that agreement if she gave in to Isaac. She suddenly felt sick and wanted to vomit, though that momentsted for a brief instant. Turning on herputer after taking a break, she tried to send her resume to other hospitals, but all of them rejected her the instant they saw her name. At that very moment, she genuinely felt the might of a ck g! Even so, she could not go without a job, and she did not have many friends either. In fact, the only one she could go to now was Zachary. After hesitating for a while, she eventually whipped out her phone to call him, and he picked up soon enough. ¡°Irene? What¡®s up?¡± ¡°Do you have time? I want to meet you,¡± she said, trying to keep her voice normal instead of raspy. Zachary quickly agreed to it anyway. ¡°Sure.¡± They were going to meet at a restaurant, and Irene left the hospital soon after washing up, so she arrived first. When Zachary arrived, he was still under the impression that Irene was worried about getting a heart donor. ¡°I can¡®t get a donor yet...¡± he said as he sat down. Since it was the perfect timing anyway, Irene told him,¡± My mother had a transnt already.¡± ¡°What?¡± Zachary eximed in surprise. ¡°When did that happen? I had no idea!¡± ¡°Last night,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I couldn¡®t tell you in time.¡± Zachary blinked, but became relieved as he said, ¡°Well, did the surgery go well?¡± She nodded, but Zachary saw that she still appeared to be dispirited. ¡°What¡®s wrong?¡± Having no other option, she admitted, ¡°I¡®m going to lose my job.¡± Caught by surprise again, Zachary soon became indignant. ¡°What? Is Dr. King firing you?¡± ¡°No, I¡®ve offended someone.¡± ¡°Who?¡± Zachary pressed. ¡°Who did you offend? I¡®ll help you kick their butt!¡± Irene hesitated since Zachary might be friends with Isaac, but eventually said it anyway. ¡°Isaac Jefferson.¡± Zachary almost spat out his drink. ¡°Him? He¡®s the reason you¡®re going to lose your job?¡± C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org Irene nodded. ¡°Well, how did you manage to offend him? Was it Whitney Cox?¡± Zachary asked, since he could not think of any other reason. He, like others, was unaware of Irene and Isaac¡®s marriage. They never held a wedding, and since there was no publicity and Isaac did not acknowledge it anyway, only a select few knew. Irene, knowing that Isaac would divorce her eventually anyway, did not tell Zachary either¨Cwhich was why Whitney was the only connection between Isaac and Irene that Zachary could think of. Before she could respond, he continued, ¡°To be fair to him, it¡®s the first time I¡®ve seen him get so obsessed with a woman... But he¡®s still a blind fool ¨C why Whitney Cox, of all people?¡± It did not matter to Irene who Isaac fell for, as it was strictly a case of to each their own. Who knows? Whitney might really be Isaac¡®s type. Still, Zachary¡®s outburst confirmed Irene¡®s theory that he and Isaac were friends, so she asked gingerly, ¡°The patient you asked me to treat in your stead... That¡®s Isaac Jefferson, right?¡± She had that hunch when she recognized Stan as Isaac¡®s assistant, so she simply asked to confirm it. ¡°Yeah, but don¡®t tell anyone,¡± Zachary told her, having faith that she would not do so¨Cor he would not have allowed her to sub in for him. 11 Then, after some thought, he said, ¡°I¡®ll talk to him in your stead.¡± Irene wanted to stop him right then and rify what was going on between her and Isaac, but she failed to put together the right words. All she ended up saying was, ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°Oh, don¡®t get all mushy on me.¡± Zacharyughed. ¡°Also ... weren¡®t you offering to treat me to a meal last time?¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Of course.¡± At the Light Group offices, Isaac had just finished a meeting and returned to his office when Stan approached him. ¡°Sir, I just spotted Ms. Spencer having lunch with Dr. te.¡± ¡°What?¡± Isaac wheeled on him, surprise clearly showing in his eyes. ¡°She¡®s acquainted with Zachary?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 14 The Runaway Groom Chapter 14 Chapter 14 Truth be told, Stan was not sure. He had been puzzled and shocked himself to see Irene and Zachary holding a cheerful conversation over lunch he would never have known if he had not coincidentally passed by that restaurant either. ¡°Should we call Dr. te and ask?¡± he suggested. ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac tly replied, and Stan quickly left to make the call. Zachary arrived after around twenty minutes, and the instant he stepped into Isaac¡®s office, he said, ¡°Perfect timing. I was just going to-¡± LUL ¡°You know Irene Spencer?¡± Isaac asked. Interjected before he could finish, Zachary was taken aback, but he soon nodded. ¡°I do¨Cshe¡®s my junior, and she¡®s the one who treated your injury that time.¡± Isaac leaned back on his brown leather couch , his long and bushy eyshes twitching above his jet ¨C ck gaze. That was her? It was actually surprising. ¡°Right, so...¡± Zachary continued as he entered and took a seat. ¡°Can¡®t you be nicer to her, Isaac?¡± Isaac raised a brow and loafed even more casually just then, but those who knew him understood that the more casual he was, the more pensive he actually was. Zachary was actually close to Irene? Somehow, he felt upset¨Cand he actually had no idea why he felt that way. ¡°Are you siding with her?¡± he asked quietly. ¡°What is she to you?¡± ¡°She¡®s my junior, duh. We graduated from the same teaching hospital, although she¡®s two semesters my junior. Word is that her father has a mistress and is cold toward her and her mother, and she had to work part time jobs during university to pay her tuition fees. A tragic case on all counts,¡± Zachary said, earnestly defending Irene, telling her life story as well so that Isaac would spare her, or at least let her keep her job. Not sparing his strength, Zahcary continued, ¡°That¡¯s why I tried to help her when I could, so we¡®re good friends. Come on, Isaac ¨C she needs her job to pay her mother¡®s medical bills. Can¡®t you just let her off this once? She¡®s really going to suffer without her job.¡± Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Isaac remained impassive, but his heart was actually stirring Her case did sound tragic ... though that was not reason enough to forgive her. He appeared even more rxed then, and said thoughtfully, ¡°I don¡®t mind forgiving her if shees to me on her own, and begs.¡± L11 Zachary could tell right then that Isaac was still upset with Irene, and knew that Irene never liked to bother others, so he exined, ¡°She wouldn¡®t havee to me if she weren¡®t desperate.¡± Isaac snorted coldly. Desperate? If she was desperate, why did she refuse toe to him? That just meant she was not desperate enough! ¡°Isaac...¡± Zachary tried to say more for Irene¡®s sake, but Isaac refused to listen. ¡°Like I said, tell her toe to me.¡± He clearly sounded impatient, and Zachary knew that it was futile to go on now. ¡°Just don¡®t push her too far¨Cshe did help you before, remember that.¡± Isaac shot him a cool re then. ¡°Do you like her?¡± Are they that close that he would go so far for her? Hell, could he be the man she slept with? ¡°Well, I do... but it¡®s more admiration, to be honest,¡± Zachary quickly exined. ¡°She¡®s quite likable, and although there were many boys who liked her and tried to woo her back at university, she rejected all of them. That¡®s a proper maiden of integrity for you, and I think I¡®d fall for her if I weren¡®t spoken for¡­ Haha!¡± LLLLL Isaac shot him a look of contempt, and thought to himself that he must be blind. Howwas she proper? What about her integrity? Would a proper maiden sleep with another man on her wedding night, and make him a cuckold? While Isaac glowered at those thoughts, Zachary did not notice what was happening with him. He felt weary inwardly, but there was nothing else he could do here. Stepping out of the building, he called Irene outside the entrance. After leaving the restaurant, Irene returned to her hospital to visit her mother when she received Zachary¡®s call. He apologized for failing to persuade Isaac, but Irene knew about Isaac¡®s bad temper anyway, and said, ¡°It¡®s fine. You don¡®t have to worry about that.¡± VIL Hanging up, sheposed herself as she headed inside her mother¡®s ward. The instant she got in, a nurse saw her and told her,¡± Your mother is awake.¡± ¡°Really?¡± she eximed in excitement. ¡°Of course, I was just about to call you,¡± the nurse replied, ¡°You should go check on her.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Her mother had been moved to a normal ward. When she entered to find her mother¡®s eyes wide open, she was left hesitating for a moment before striding toward her. ¡°Mom...¡± Sheryl Harris feebly tried to reach for her. ¡°Oh, Irene...¡± Irene quickly took her hand, it was a great relief to her. ¡°I¡®m so sorry...¡± Sheryl was aware of how critical her condition was, and that her daughter must have agreed to Lionel Spencer¡®s demands that she marry into the Jefferson family¨Cthere was no way she could afford her surgery otherwise. Her eyes welling with tears, she murmured, ¡°I shouldn¡®t have let you suffer. I¡®m better off dead...¡± ¡°Come on, Mommy.¡± Irene squeezed her hand. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be here without you.¡± If her mother did not haveborplications that damaged her health and made her infertile, Lionel would never have abhorred her and found herself a mistress. ¡°How are you? Are the Jeffersons being nice to you?¡± Sheryl asked Irene tentatively then she was worried that marrying rich would leave Irene belittled. Irene put up a smile and tried to make light of it, assuring her, ¡°I¡®m fine. Mr. Henry... and Isaac are nice to me, so don¡®t worry. Right now, you should focus on getting better.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Sheryl murmured, appearing tired already. She still needed rest at the moment, so Irene kept herpany, and only left after she fell asleep. Outside, it was already dark. ¨C ¨C She felt cold despite the warm climate, because she knew that there were certain things she had to face inevitably, including Isaac. There was no hiding anyway, she whipped out her phone to contact him. Be it disembowelment or hanging ... It was time to face the music. And yet, she suddenly realized that she never had his number, and had no choice but to return to her mansion¡­ where she found Isaac¡®s car out at the entrance. Again?! The Runaway Groom Chapter 15 The Runaway Groom Chapter 15 Chapter 15 Irene had already set her mind on confronting Isaac, but she was more or less apprehensive about actually doing it. Scenes of his violence still shed in her mind! Taking a deep breath, she mustered her courage and strode into the house, and she opened the door to find Mrs. Watson waiting for her, smiling. ¡°Wee back.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene murmured as she peeked inside, spotting a figure on the couch but not his face. ¡°Mr. Jefferson is in,¡± Mrs. Watson said then. Irene changed into loafers before entering, forcing a smile as she offered a greeting. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Isaac lowered the magazine he was reading to look at her and chuckled. ¡°Mr. Jefferson?¡®¡± She was refusing to divorce him, and yet trying to act distant? Was she ying hard to get? Irene ignored it. Having apologized before, she said earnestly again, ¡°I didn¡®t mean to touch your stuff. I¡®m sorry.¡± ¡°Did you really think that ¡®sorry¡® would make me forgive you?¡± Isaac said, leaning backnguidly on his couch and folding his legs angrily. For some reason, he was actually pleased that she had to speak respectfully and act so wary around him. Bullying her was somehow amusing. If Irene knew what he was thinking, she would be cursing at him for being a deviant! Sadly, the reality was that she was now a miserable worm who had to prostrate herself and beg for her survival. Irene watched him for two seconds, and decided to brace herself and curry favor with him just to keep her job. She brought him a cup of tea, smiling. ¡°Mr. Jefferson, please don¡®t hold a grudge over someone as insignificant as me.¡± The smile on her face did not quite reach her eyes, and Isaac growled in disdain, ¡°What an ugly smile.¡± Irene was actually trying to rx her expression, but there was no way she could rx around him. Biting her lip, she worked hard to satisfy him and bent herself backward. ¡°Sorry.¡± ¡°Can¡®t you at least do something more sincere if you¡®re apologizing? For example, getting the hell out of my house?¡± Isaac said, his expression nonchnt but his words sharp. From his perspective, Irene was an interloper and therefore should leave¡­ but it was not as if she wanted to invade his home! Everyone knew that, but he was unwilling to take her as his wife, but did they know that she was not willing either? Did anyone actually ask or show concern about how she felt? Her beautiful, pure and crystalline eyes suddenly glistened with a watery glimmer. Isaac looked into her eyes then, and felt as if he was stabbed in the chest and suffocating. He felt as if he knew her in the past for a split second, but he quickly averted his eyes and feigned composure. ¡°What, trying to y the sympathy card now?¡± he growled, though his voice was less stern now. Fighting back her tears, Irene kept her voice as calm as possible. ¡°It¡®s not like I don¡®t want a divorce¨C your grandfather had me sign an agreement so that I won¡®t.¡± In the past, she would never have told anyone about her own problems to gain sympathy, she could not be stubborn given her current situation. ¡°My mother was sick, and she only got the surgery she needed because of your grandfather¡®s help, so that¡®s why I have to stay with you. Did you think you¡®re the only reluctant partner in this marriage?¡± Isaac narrowed his eyes coolly. ¡°What, are you saying you¡®re reluctant?¡± ¡°Of course! I would never have agreed to this marriage my father arranged if it wasn¡®t to save my mother!¡± she cried bitterly¨Cshe would not have felt so miserable if her life was not under someone else¡®s control. Nheless, Isaacughed icily. What was she saying? That she was forced to marry him? Wait, why was he getting upset as well?! ¡°Are you dissatisfied that you have to marry me?¡± he snarled through gritted teeth. ¡°Yes.¡± Her answer was honest, but it left Isaac utterly incensed! A vein was bulging on his temple. What right did she have to be dissatisfied with this marriage? Who did she think she was? What gave her the right?! Damaged goods like her, having the cheek to say she was reluctant?! This was humiliating! ¡°So, you¡®re hurting because you had to marry me?¡± He grinned, though it did not quite reach his eyes and made him look frightening. Irene did not get why he was upset, and answered honestly, ¡°Yes.¡± To her, every moment she had to deal with him hurt her! She did not hesitate to answer, and it was clear how repulsed she felt toward him. ¡°Hah!¡± Isaac eximed as he sprang to his feet. ¡°Since it hurts you, then stay hurt!¡± Suddenly, he decided that he did not want that divorce. He just had to stay married and make her suffer! ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± ¡°You are staying on the cklist. Don¡®t bother!¡± Isaac snapped viciously. Anxiety gripping her then, Irene tugged at his clothes. ¡°I really love my job, and I really need it. Please...¡± Isaac, however, got sick of her pulling and shoving. He promptly shook her off, and as Irene was too tired, she dropped on the couch like a rag doll. Her blouse unfurled out of her skirt, revealing her skin around her navel and her waist, which looked so fragile like it would snap from just a brush At the same time, it was irresistible ¨C one could not resist pulling that into their arms and defiling it. Isaac¡®s gaze darkened, though he was keeping his voice cool to hide the hoarseness. ¡°What are you trying to seduce me now?¡± Irene was simply too tired. Even the knock on her head fromst night started to hurt after her fall. Still, she finally looked down at her blouse and quickly pulled it down. ¡°I won¡®t be interested even if you got naked in front of me,¡± Isaac continued slowly with an icy tone, his words cutting like knives. Irene said nothing else then, since she knew that she would never be able to convince a heartless man. As Isaac headed upstairs, shey feebly on her couch, not inclined to move. Mrs. Watson came to her after ensuring that Isaac was gone. ¡°You look terrible. Are you sick?¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied, shaking her head. ¡°You haven¡®t had dinner, yes? Would you like to eat something for now?¡± Mrs. Watson asked. Irene had zero appetite , however, and thought that she could not eat anything just then. ¡°I just want to sleep. Could you get me a nket?¡± she asked, since Isaac was upstairs ¨C she did not know if he was sleeping in her usual room, so she decided that she could sleep on the couch instead. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Seeing that she was really tired, Mrs. Watson brought her a nket and pulled it over her gently. ¡°Alright. Sleep for now¨CI¡®ll heat up some dinner so that you can have something when you¡®re up.¡± Irene looked up at Mrs. Watson despite her heavy eyelids, knowing right then that she was the only person who gave her warmth in this ice¨Ccold mansion. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Watson,¡± Irene said raspily. ¡°You¡®re wee.¡± Mrs. Watson smiled, and turned off the lights save for two night lights. After Irene slowly closed her eyes, she slept soundly and did not wake even when it was past eleven. Mrs. Watson had gone to bed as well, so Isaac had to head downstairs himself for water. He found Irene on the couch, with her nket already slipping to the floor. He strode toward her and looked at her for a while, but showed no inclination to put it over her. And yet, when he turned, she suddenly caught his robe, and firmly pulled. His sash came undone immediately, baring his muscr, powerful body. Absolutely furious, he bellowed, ¡°What are you doing?!¡° The Runaway Groom Chapter 16 The Runaway Groom Chapter 16 Chapter 16 Irene dreamed that she was being constricted by two gigantic serpents. Unable to breathe and convinced that she would suffocate, a ray of light suddenly appeared, and she grabbed it as hard as she could... She jolted awake when she thought salvation was at hand, and she opened her eyes to find a towering man standing before her, his clothes a mess but his presence menacing-as if he would consume her. Her mind clearing instantly, she shrank into a corner of the couch, stammering, ¡°W¨CWhat are you doing?¡± Having just woken up, her voice was hoarse and quivering. Isaac merely smiled in disdain¨Cshe was the one who tried to strip him, and now she was pretending to be frightened? ¡°What, you weren¡¯t just pretending to sleepwalk and molest me? You really can¡®t go a night without a man, can you?¡± Irene felt her breath leave her lungs. Still, her fingers curled into a fist as she red at him sternly. ¡°That¡®s not it?¡± Isaac gave her a look of doubt. ¡°Really?¡± Suddenly, he pressed down on her. From up close, his distinct presence was cold, suffocating, and invasive. She raised a hand in reflex to stop him, and as her soft fingers touched his chest, the sudden skin contact left him stiffening, and he looked down at her hand. Her fingers were slim and beautiful, and her skin fair. At the same time, the warmth of her palm flowed under her skin, crawling into her blood. Though suddenly restless, Isaac simply med it on Irene¡¯s provocation. Inching closer, he growled, ¡°Trying to molest me again? You¡®re really thirsty, aren¡®t you?¡± This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Irene bit her lip. ¡°You¡®re shameless!¡± ¡°Me?¡± Isaac chuckled lightly, but it sounded like a dull syble grunted from his chest. ¡°You¡®re the one touching me, aren¡®t you?¡± It was only then that Irene realized in shock that both her hands were pushing against his chest. She never would have realized such intimacy if he did not tell her, and she flinched as she withdrew her hands, as if his hot, muscr chest burned her. Even so, his warmth lingered in her palms, leaving her flustered and unsure where to look. Her throat felt parched even as she exined, ¡°That wasn¡®t on purpose.¡± Her scent was sweet and alluring, stirring the impulses of anyone that got too close-Isaac was no exception. Even so, his restraint andposure kept him uninterested in anything in the world. Straightening himself, he slowly tied up his sash as he growled, ¡°I¡®m hungry.¡± Irene was left spacing out for a moment. Isaac took her inaction as her reluctance to cook for him, and he sneered. ¡°You¡®re my wife, no matter how unwilling you are. You¡®ll do what I tell you to!¡± Irene pursed her lips, her heart stung by his words, but she had no grounds to retort. She got off the couch and headed to the washroom, feeling a little hungry as well since she did not eat dinner. Heating up the food Mrs. Watson cooked, she quickly moved them to the table and called out, ¡°It¡®s done.¡± Isaac entered the dining room, his eyes sweeping over the dining table with an unfathomable expression. Through it all, Irene was virtually curling into herself and reducing her presence. It was naturally worth celebrating that Isaac did not try to nitpick, but she messed up anyway as she felt like throwing up after a few mouthfuls of food. Holding back from retching at the dining table, she got up and headed to the washroom to vomit. She suddenly remembered that her period waste, although it had alwayse at the same time of the month before. Suddenly, she felt uneasy-was she pregnant? N¨CNo way! She had already taken the morning after pills. ¡®It¡®s fine,¡® she told herself. She must be scaring herself. Still, she was distracted even as she returned to the dining table, picking up a spoon without looking and scooping up soup... but after she drank it, she looked up to meet Isaac¡®s puzzled look. Her chest tightened¨Cdid she somehow offended him again? But she did not think so... ¡°Do you not like the dishes?¡± she asked with a forced smile, holding back an impulse to pick up a knife and stab him. Why did he always have to harass her every waking moment? Was he not going to rest if he did not torture her to death? She would have poisoned the food if she had known! Nheless, Isaac simply cut himself a slice of chicken and chewed slowly with a mysterious look on his face. Not bothered with him this time, Irene continued to eat, when she suddenly realized that her spoon was still beside her own bowl. Where did the spoon in her hande from? She looked up, and finally saw that Isaac¡®s spoon was gone. Boom! It felt like her head had suddenly imploded. She was using Isaac¡®s spoon?! At the same time, Isaac asked slowly with a gleeful look,¡± Irene Spencer... You really love me, don¡®t you?¡± However, even he could not exin what he was gleeful about himself. ¡°...¡± Irene tried to exin, but did not know where to start. Nheless, it was a fact that she had used the spoon he used, and her lips touched where his did when she drank her soup... Argh!!! Did that count as an indirect kiss? She would rather be dead! ¡°That was an ident...¡± ¡°Just tell me if you want to kiss me. Why act so vague?¡± Isaac said, picking up his napkin and wiping the corner of his lips elegantly. Rising slowly to his feet, he shed a vague smile at her. ¡°For women like you who jump on any man they meet, it would actually be weird if you¡®re not interested in me.¡± Irene was speechless , and felt the corner of her eyelids twitching He was so full of himself! Interested in him? Not unless every other man in the world was dead! ¡°It was an ident, and don¡®t worry¨CI have absolutely no interest in you. If I do, the gods can strike me down right now and kill me!¡± she swore in fervent denial. Isaac narrowed his eyes. Did she have a death wish, swearing something so vicious? What a piece of work! Nheless, he stayed calm and smiled. ¡°I heard your career as a doctor is over, right?¡± Irene looked up at him with unconcealed spite! Isaac smiled, pleased to see her getting upset. ¡°What do I have to do for you to stop?¡± she asked quietly. Even if Henry paid for her mother¡®s surgical costs, she still needed to make a living for her and her mother. Naturally, she could not do that without a job, not to mention that being a doctor was her lifelong dream. On the other hand, Isaac was in a good mood after seeing her cow from just a little pressure. ¡°Who knows? If you do well, I might be able to show leniency.¡± Stopping in his tracks, he threw her an offer that was at once an opportunity and harassment. ¡°I have a social call at Blue Bridge tonight. Meet me there if you want to keep your job.¡± Irene clenched her fist. She knew he would never be that agreeable. However, since she had no other choice, she pursed her lips. ¡°Got it.¡± After Isaac headed upstairs, she cleaned up the dining table and tried to sleep on the living room couch again, but it was not until dawn when she finally managed to sleep. It was almost noon when she woke up, and she sneaked upstairs since Isaac had left. She did not take a showerst night, and urgently needed one. When she opened the door, she realized... The Runaway Groom Chapter 17 The Runaway Groom Chapter 17 Chapter 17 Isaac did not sleep in the room she was sleeping in everything was neat and tidy, with nothing touched at all. Irene entered, took a shower, and put on fresh clothes before leaving. When she reached the hospital, however, she realized that Dr. King had swapped her out for someone else at her post. There was no ce for her now, and she turned and left in despair. Stepping out of the hospital, she stood still for a moment, knowing now that she had no choice. In the evening, she arrived outside Blue Bridge and stood outside for a while. Nheless, just as she was about to enter, she saw Whitney. Why was Whitney here? However, Irene soon remembered Whitney¡¯s connection with Isaac, and decided that it should not come as a surprise. She headed inside, quietly following Whitney and watched as she entered a private room¡­ However, it was not Isaac inside, but instead, a rich kid named Chad Ross who used to woo Whitney when they were in university. Chad came from money but was no looker, which was why Whitney never showed interest in him. So, why were they meeting? Spurred by curiosity , Irene stayed to find out¨Cpeeking through the door frame, she found Chad wrapping his arms around Whitney intimately, and she was not pushing him away! Irene had so many questions right then. Was Whitney not Isaac¡®s girlfriend? Why was she cheating on Isaac? The thought left Irene¡®s heart skipping a beat ¨C if Isaac were to find out, would he not strangle Whitney , given his temper? That was when she heard a voice from inside saying, ¡°All good things muste to an end, Chad. Let¡®s break up, okay?¡± Chad¡®s face fell right then. ¡°Why? You found yourself another man, didn¡®t you?¡± ¡°No,¡± Whitney stammered, fumbling for an exnation. ¡°I just don¡®t think we suit each other.¡± ¡°You never said that when you spent my money.¡± Chad scoffed and smiled, his uely face turning perverted and determined. ¡°I won¡®t break up with you.¡± Whitney looked at his face and thought of Isaac¡®s just then, and realized that Chad¡®s face was so ugly she would retch. She would cut ties immediately; so that Isaac would not realize she had a man! Moreover, she came prepared because she knew that Chad would not let her go that easily. ¡°I¡®ll return every penny of yours that I¡®ve spent.¡± It was true that she slept with Chad for his money, since she never imagined that she would be Isaac¡®s love interest ¨C she would not have bothered hooking up with Chad otherwise. Nheless, she was not getting away that easily. It was true that Chad did underestimate Whitney¡®s resolve and willingness to return his money, but he also knew about her vanity and her extravagant lifestyle. She never saved money, and every penny she got from him was spent on luxury items or some other form of enjoyment¨Cshe would never be able to pay him back. ¡°You¡®re going to return every penny ? Sure. I¡®ll have my money back... by a hundredfold!¡± ¡°Why don¡¯t you rob a bank instead?!¡± Whitney eximed in rage. ¡°I¡®ll have you know that I¡®m not so easily discouraged , Whitney!¡± After all, Chad was really in love with Whitney! Suddenly, he moved, and pinned Whitney to the couch. ¡°Let me go!¡± Whitney cried even as she struggled. ¡°Trying to y a pure maiden now?¡± ¡°Stop this! Let me go right now!¡± Whitney cried¨Cever since she realized that she had a shot with Isaac, meeting Chad again only left her repulsed. In fact, she was so sick of him that she could not get it on with him at all! ¡°I want you!¡± Chad ignored her as he pressed his weight over her, and tore at her clothes. Whitney kept shoving at him. ¡°Let me go! Don¡®t touch me!¡± Outside, Irene felt that things were more than what she could stomach now, and turned to leave... only to run into a ¡®wall.¡¯ Guilty that she was caught peeking, she almost yelped when a hand sped over her mouth. She looked up into Isaac¡¯s eyes. Beneath the chandelier overhead, his tall, straight figure appeared cold and sinister. Irene gulped in fear. Did he see and hear what was happening in that room? When she gulped, however, she seemed to be kissing Isaac¡®s palm, her tender lips sticking close against his skin. Her breath sprayed all over his palm. It was warm and gentle, and stirred an itch, tugging at his heart. He almost lost control just then, but quickly feignedposure and red into her eyes warningly. Irene was speechless and puzzled from the re, even as a struggle could be heard in the room. However, Isaac had no intention to leave, and instead simply stood there, keeping a hand over Irene¡¯s mouth as he listened. Irene also stiffened, too scared to move ¨C did he lose his mind from seeing Whitney¡®s behavior? Was he not going to interfere? Was he not afraid that Chad would seed in taking Whitney? Inside the room, Chad was still being stubborn since he was really in love with Whitney. ¡°I¡®m telling you, Whitney-don¡¯t even dream of breaking up with me! Not even if you return my money!¡± ¡°But I don¡®t love you,¡± Whitney snapped, feeling desperate now as well. ¡°You were the one who kept chasing after me, and I gave you a chance out of pity. Don¡®t ask for too much!¡± Chad became incensed right then-Whitney¡®s words had driven him over the brink. ¡°You think I¡®m a pushover now, don¡®t you?!¡± ¡°Let go... Let me go...¡± The voices inside never stopped, and there was no telling what was happening Isaac did not storm into the room, and merely left while dragging Irene along, glowering. They entered a private room, and Irene quickly asked,¡± Why are you here...¡± Isaac was not in the mood to answer ¨C he waste, but when he walked through the corridor and found her spying, he approached her, and... Right now, his entire body seemed to project a sharp coldness. All the sweetness he remembered of that night had vaporized, and he felt utterly disgusted! Whitney actually had a man, but he remembered that the woman he had at the time was a virgin! That inexperience could not have been faked! N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. Now that he thought about it, that meant Whitney might not be the one. ¡°Excuse me, Mr. Jefferson...¡± Irene began. ¡°Shut up!¡± he snapped harshly before she could finish, and whipped out his phone to call Stan. His call was soon answered, and he bellowed, ¡°Check with Charity Hospital again. Find out who the woman that night actually was!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 18 The Runaway Groom Chapter 18 Chapter 18 Hanging up, Isaac flung his phone on the table and itnded with a loud thud, startling Irene. She stood in a corner quietly, afraid to make a sound. In the end, no ordinary person would be able to bear seeing their love interest getting it on with an ex certainly not someone as conceited as Isaac! ¡°Excuse me...¡± she began tentatively. However, Isaac was seeing red, and he naturally could not stand Irene. Unable to calm down, he paced around even as his mrs gnashed audibly. His eyes were gleaming with irrepressible rage, and he knew very well that he was upset because he had seen the unsavory side of the woman he wanted! It shattered all the dreams he had of that night! Still, feeling as if everything he had seen or heard would keep reying in his mind, he strode out of the room. Irene followed him by instinct. ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± Still fuming, Isaac snapped, ¡°Get away from me!¡± Irene stopped in her tracks-even if Isaac sincerely wanted to give her a chance, he was not in the mood to talk after what just happened. Tactful as ever, she stopped following him. She came today hoping that Isaac would let her keep her job as a doctor. That seemed impossible now, so she prepared to leave as well... until she saw the man at the entrance, who was heading inside Blue Bridge. Harvey was going to hang out at Blue Bridge for the night when he encountered Isaac at the entrance, and smiled in greeting. ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± Isaac gave him a brief nce but ignored him, and strode into his car. Harvey took no offense¨CIsaac was infamous for his poor temper, and he remained grinning. In the distance, Irene did not catch what they were saying. She only saw Harvey saying something to Isaac with a smile, and her chest tightened right then. LI Isaac had thrown Harvey at her to molest her! And now, he had told her toe here, so that Harvey could finish his job?! At that very moment, she wanted to kill Isaac and then herself. That man was evil... No, he was an animal! Did he have to humiliate her repeatedly even if he did not like her?! She turned and tried to hide inside Blue Bridge, but Harvey spotted her anyway. ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Spotting her familiar figure, he jogged toward her and grabbed her arm. As Irene spun in panic, Harvey eximed in delight,¡± Let¡®s see where you¡®re going to run off to this time!¡± He had been looking for her everywhere, only to run into her here of all ces! Truly, anything you want always falls into yourp when you least expect it! Calming herself , Irene smiled. ¡°I¡®m not running. I had something urgent to attend tost time, so I had to leave. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. Harvey narrowed his eyes. ¡°Do you take me for a fool? My neck hasn¡®t healed yet, and I still haven¡®t forgotten that fierce look on your face when you pressed your scalpel against my skin!¡± Irene¡®s heart raced. She had managed to escapest time because she was prepared, but she was not this time, and she was not going to get away easily. As such, she had to try to charm him. Smiling apologetically, she said, ¡°That was definitely a mistake... I didn¡®t mean to hurt you.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Harvey, however, knew very well what had happened then, but simply smiled evilly instead of debating it with her. ¡°Well, if it was a mistake, that means you must be willing to y with me, right? Shall we continue where we left off?¡± Irene panicked. ¡°Wait...¡± ¡°You don¡®t want to?¡± Harveyughed icily. ¡°You said it was a mistake, right?¡± Suddenly, his expression turned menacing. ¡°I¡®m telling you ¨C no one in this world dares to hurt me! You¡®re the first, and I¡®ll never live it down if I spared you so easily!¡± Then, holding her wrist with a vice¨Clike grip, he snapped, ¡°Come with me!¡± Irene struggled as hard as she could, knowing that it would be over for her if she followed him! ¡°How did you know I was here? Did Isaac tell you?¡± She still had hope that the man was not this crazy! Nheless, Harvey grunted impatiently. ¡°Yeah.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 19 The Runaway Groom Chapter 19 Chapter 19 In Harvey¡®s mind, Irene was basically a gift from Isaac anyway. This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. At the same time, Irene¡¯s heart turned cold. So it really was Isaac! ¡°I have a private room here where we can enjoy ourselves properly.¡± Harvey smiled at her. ¡°Honestly, it¡®s weird why wouldn¡®t Isaac want a ravishing beauty like yourself? Does he really not like women?¡± Isaac never had a girlfriend, and everyone knew that he surrounded himself with men. Many called him impotent, while others called him homosexual¨Ceither way, he could not be normal! Ireneughed coldly. Isaac Jefferson, not liking women? No, he just did not like her! Just look at how upset he was because he saw Whitney messing around with Chad-that simply meant he cared, did it not? ¡°Still, I should thank him properly.¡± Harvey chuckled as he continued. ¡°There¡¯s no way I would make your acquaintance if not for him!¡± Even if he was hurt that other day, the way Irene held a scalpel at him and threatened him was a memorable moment. Women tend to appear unwilling all the time¡ªbut all they do is yelp and yell, no? Not her! He did not notice Irene¡¯s gaze gleaming coldly as she breathed through gritted teeth, ¡°I should really thank him!¡± Harvey¡®s eyes twinkled. ¡°So, are youing with me?¡± Irene breathed, ¡°Of course...¡± But even before she finished, she lowered her head and bit his hand. Then, as Harvey yelped and flinched in pain, Irene seized the moment and headbutted his face! Blood shot out of Harvey¡®s nostrils. ¡°Oof!¡± As he clutched his face in pain, Irene seized the opening to run away. She was in fear, but she did not spare her strength as she fled. After all, things would end horribly for her if she was caught! She must get away! As if having the wind in her sails, she ran at top speed, turning from time to time and checking if Harvey was catching up. She did not slow down even if there was no one behind her, and finally reduced her pace when she reached a crowded spot. Sweat drenched her hair, and she stopped to sit beside the road in exhaustion. Wheezing, she watched as people of all sorts walked past, and suddenly buried her face in her palms as she sobbed. She bit her lip violently as she felt inconsble hatred toward Isaac! She could not live with him¨Cnot after how he had repeatedly tried to hurt her, and she might even get killed one day! She must get away from him, but she just could not think of anything just then! Curling into a ball as she sat feebly by the road, she looked just like a miserable and lonely puppy abandoned by its owner. She was too afraid of Isaac to return to the mansion, but she had nowhere to go. Without money and anyone to depend on, her survival now hinged on money. Rising to her feet then, she decided to go home to Spencer Vi ¨C it seemed that she must get some money from Lionel. Having made up her mind, she stopped a taxi, calming down considerably as she gazed out the window along the way to Spencer Vi. Paying up after arriving, she strode into the vi. The Runaway Groom Chapter 20 The Runaway Groom Chapter 20 Chapter 20 In the living room, Sheryl White was sitting on the couch, wearing silk pajamas that entuated her devilish figure. She raised a pretty brow when she saw the other woman entering. ¡°Oh, if it isn¡®t Irene!¡± Irene clenched her fists right then. Sheryl had moved in while her mother was sick? She then nced at Sheryl¡®s wrist, and noticed the bangle that looked like it cost an arm and a leg¨Cit seemed that things had taken a turn at the Spencer household after they received the Jeffersons¡® dowry. Despite feeling embittered, she said, ¡°I¡®m here to talk to Lionel.¡± Sheryl brushed her thick, maroon hair and replied, ¡°He¡®s not here.¡± Irene quickly turned to leave, but Sheryl called out to her. ¡°Stop¨Cdid youe to ask for money? Why would you need money when you¡®re Mrs. Jefferson now? I¡®m telling you, we don¡®t have any money for you. I¡®m sure you know how much your mother¡®s surgery costs.¡± Irene pursed her lips. Sheryl was merely a mistress, but she acted as if she was now the head of the household! ¡°Lionel hasn¡¯t divorced my mother yet. I¡¯ll file awsuit if he refuses to pay her medical bills!¡± ¡°You-¡± Sheryl was about to retort when she noticed someone entering, and promptly put on a mild expression. ¡°How could you call your own father Lionel? You should be more polite.¡± Irene saw the quick change in her reaction, and turned to find Lionel standing there. ¡°Give me money,¡± she said shortly. Lionel scowled as he approached her. ¡°You¡®ve gotten bolder after marrying into the Jefferson family, haven¡®t you? What was that about awsuit?¡± II ILU Irene held his gaze as she continued, ¡°My mother¡®s medical bills need to be paid. As we¡®ve agreed, it¡®s 150,000 dors.¡± ¡°I don¡®t have the money right now...¡± Irene¡¯s gaze at her turned cool. ¡°The Jeffersons paid you a dowry of 30 million dors, and you don¡®t have the money? Father, I¡®m your daughter, and my mother is your legitimate wife. I was hoping you¡®d uphold your end of our agreement, but I don¡®t mind making a huge mess and taking you down with me!¡± Lionel glowered. ¡°Are you threatening me?¡± ¡°You¡¯ve never seen any importance in me just because I¡®m a girl, Father. All you do is manipte me and use me like a tool, so know that I¡®m now desperate because you¡®ve pushed me, and I¡®ll do anything,¡± Irene retorted. The look of determination on her eyes left Lionel stunned right then, and he suddenly decided that he could still use her now that she married into the Jefferson family, and relented. Heading toward the study, he said, ¡°Come with me.¡± Sheryl tried to stop him. ¡°Lionel...¡± ¡°Shut up. I know what I¡®m doing,¡± Lionel snapped, and took out a check from his desk drawer, pausing halfway as he wrote the amount, pausing for a moment before finishing up. Handing it to Irene, he said, ¡°Have 200,000 instead. You should dress better as the new Mrs. Jefferson, and get rid of those rags. You¡®re humiliating Isaac Jefferson ... Wait, doesn¡®t he give you any money?¡± C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org However, Irene felt tears welling in her eyes even as she looked at the check. She understood that her father¡®s kind gesture and concern was to tter her, because he still intended to use her to earn favors from the Jeffersons. Her heart hurt at the thought that her father only ever used her. Nheless, she took the check. ¡°Don¡®t you know what happened after I married? Asking Isaac Jefferson for money? He can¡®t wait to kill me!¡± Lionel¡®s face twitched. ¡°You¡®re a woman. Try to learn how to please a man¨Cit¡®s not like you¡®re ugly...¡± ¡°Do you think that man is an idiot?¡± Irene snapped even as she pocketed the check. ¡°That he hadn¡®t had women before? Or that a man like him can be beguiled by a pretty face? If you have so much time to think about that stuff, just divorce Mom as soon as you can.¡± ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Lionel retorted. ¡°I still love your mother.¡± However, anyone could tell that Lionel would get a divorce anytime if he wanted it. The only reason he did not was to keep pumping favors out of Irene after she married into the Jefferson family. TI That was why he had never bothered to file a divorce ¨C if their ties were cut, he could not keep a leash on Irene otherwise. ¡°I¡®m with Sheryl because she gave me a son. You know that your mother is infertile, so don¡®t me me for having another woman. I can¡®t go without an¨C¡± ¡°I have other stuff to do. I¡®m leaving,¡± Irene snapped ¨C she was not about to listen to his lies. He still loved her mother? That was what he said to trick her mother. As she strode off, Lionel called out, ¡°Come home if you¡®re free.¡± Irene stayed silent even as she strode out of the front gates of Spencer Vi. She headed to the bank first¨Cshe would only stop worrying once the money was in her ount, and she would leave with her mother once her health improved. Right now, her mother was still too frail and could not handle any stress, so she must stay for now. Isaac headed straight to his office after leaving Blue Bridge, where Stan was just about to head home for the day. The Runaway Groom Chapter 21 The Runaway Groom Chapter 21 Chapter 21 Stan ran into Isaac just as he was about to leave, and quickly greeted him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Giving him a look and growling rather hostile, Isaac asked, ¡°Have you found out anything?¡± Stanined in his head that he was not Superman, not to mention that Isaac himself had given him a ton of work earlier today. ¡°N¨CNo, I was just heading out,¡± he said gingerly, even as he wondered what had happened that could get Isaac so upset. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. Isaac¡®s secretary approached them just then. ¡°Mr. Jefferson? There¡®s a Ms. Cox at the front desk, asking for you.¡± ¡°Ms. Cox? Could it be¨C¡°. Before Stan could finish, he immediately saw Isaac glowering, and kept silent tactfully. Even as the air around them cooled, Isaac tly said,¡± Bring her upstairs, Stan.¡± ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± Soon, Stan arrived at the CEO¡®s office with Whitney Cox. Isaac was standing beside his desk, having taken off his jacket and carelessly thrown it over his chair, and he slowly turned toward her. Whitney appeared prim and proper as ever, and asked mildly, ¡°Sorry for the sudden visit. Am I imposing?¡± Isaac did not catch her red¨Chanded or ask anything afterwards, so he tly said, ¡°No.¡± He was not going to marry her, and her purity was of no concern now. Whitney hesitated for a while, and began, ¡°Well... ...¡± She seemed to have trouble putting words together, so Isaac suggested, ¡°Need money?¡± Whitney was taken aback¨Chow did he know? Nheless, Isaac did not waste his breath and cut to the chase. ¡°How much do you need?¡± Whitney fumbled for an exnation. ¡°My father is ill...¡± ¡°A million? Ten million?¡± Isaac snapped, not wanting to hear her reason. She knew very well why she needed the money, and he was not bothered to find out! Whitney actually felt that Isaac was not as gentle as before, but could not find a reason for his strange behavior. She thought herself wless whenever she was around Isaac, but she was desperate right now and needed the money. Chad had eventually agreed to break up with her if she could return his money, but only gave her 24 hours. In fact, he had only agreed to it because he was convinced she could not get the money within that period. ¡°I¡®ll do my best to repay you...¡± ¡°You don¡®t have to. Now, tell me how much do you want?¡± Isaac asked, losing his patience already ¨Che did not think so before, but now he found her so fake! Naturally, he was really upset. Why did he have to sleep with her?! ¡°Four million,¡± Whitney said, deciding to deal with Chad for now, before salvaging Isaac¡®s impression of her. Isaac made the call. ¡°Take Ms. Cox to Finance. Transfer five million dors to her ount.¡± ¡°Isaac...¡± Whitney began. Isaac looked up at her then. There was cold disdain in his eyes that sent chills up one¡®s spine, and it cut Whitney short. Isaac¡¯s secretary entered just then and beckoned. ¡°Pleasee with me.¡± Whitney bit her lip, but lowered her head and followed the secretary out of the room. It was only then that Stan gingerly approached Isaac. He connected Isaac¡®s dramatic change of attitude toward Whitney with Isaac¡®s orders to reinvestigate the incident at Charity Hospital. ¡°Do you suspect that Whitney isn¡®t the woman you were with that night?¡± he asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 22 The Runaway Groom Chapter 22 Chapter 22 Isaac loosened his cor indignantly and snorted coldly out of his chest. He vividly remembered that the woman with him that night was so inexperienced. On the other hand, Whitney had a boyfriend, and after seeing how intimate they had been, it was obvious they had done it before. ¡°The cameras were sabotaged that night so weck definitive evidence, making it likely for a mistake. I¡®ll check again... But it would have been ideal if you¡®d given her a token or something...¡± Stan said, heading off to the hospital while not forgetting toin. 11 ¡°Wait¡­¡± Isaac suddenly called out to him. ¡°Never mind.¡± Now that he had calmed down and thought about it, would a woman who spread her legs under those circumstances be a woman of virtue? Desiring her to be saint when she offered her virtue on a whim? He was asking for too much. Still, none of it meant a thing to him now! Whoever that woman was, he no longer felt butterflies in his stomach for her. Stan naturally did not understand his sudden change in mood, and asked in curiosity, ¡°Did Ms. Cox upset you?¡± Isaac looked up then. His pupils seemed zed over by pure, icy darkness. Cowed immediately , Stan said, ¡°I¡®ll get back to work if there¡®s nothing else?¡± With that, he swiftly retreated from Isaac¡®s office as if the devil was on his heels. Once he closed the door behind him, barring the office from all the noise outside, the room turned silent right then. Isaac sat in his chair, holding a hand over his forehead and rubbing it firmly, finally calming down then. He stopped Stan from making queries at Charity Hospital because he did not care about that night anymore. He now had no interest in that woman at all ¨C it had all just been an ident! She was not worth his heart or sentiment! Someone suddenly knocked on his office door, and he growled, ¡°Come in.¡± His secretary entered. ¡°Ms. Cox lelt after receiving the Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. money,¡± she reported. ¡°Also, Mr. Wickers from Dorime Pharmaceuticals called¨Che¡®s asking when you¡®ll arrive at Blue Bridge.¡± It was only then that Isaac remembered his prior appointment. Dorime Pharmaceuticals was developing a medicine to fight cancer, but theycked the capital, and Mr. Wickers made an appointment with Isaac to discuss the prospect of an investment. Isaac had agreed to it because he could see the potential in the project, the whole world was giving all they could in cancer research, because they knew the market value of a sessful anti¨Ccancer drug. Money matters not when life is at stake, which is why financial conglomerates can always be found pulling the strings of every major pharmaceutical research organization. After all, they would want to build a monopoly over the supply once sess is at hand. Isaac naturally wanted a piece of the pie as well, because he could see the immense returns and was reluctant for any foreign financial giants to monopolize the market. He was no saint of justice ¨C he was a businessman , and for him, profits came before humanity. The reason he had asked Irene to be there as well was because she was a doctor and would know about the field, while hecked any knowledge in pharmaceuticals. However, the n was cut short because of Whitney... and now that he thought about it, he had really lost his cool there. ¡°Tell him that something came up. Set another appointment for him.¡± Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± the secretary replied and left his office. Meanwhile, Irene was still not returning to her mansion. Since she was also jobless, she visited her mother, who was recovering well but still needed more time to get better. She had just received money from Lionel, but she would only be throwing it down the drain if she did not get a job ¨Cafter all, how long would it sustain her and her mother? The Runaway Groom Chapter 23 The Runaway Groom Chapter 23 Chapter 23 Over the years, Irene did not have much savings because she had been footing her mother¡®s medical bills. Nheless, now that her career as a doctor was over, she had to work another job. Her dream as a military doctor was also dyed -not abandoned, even if she was forced to concede it because of her life at the moment. She would be a doctor again if she had the chance. Eventually, she left the hospital and took a taxi back to the mansion. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, are you ill? You look pale,¡± Mrs. Watson said in concern as she entered. Irene shook her head. ¡°I¡®m fine.¡± As she entered after changing into loafers , Mrs. Watson pressed on, asking, ¡°Don¡®t you have work today?¡± After all, Irene had always been busy, and often took night shifts. Irene¡®s heart skipped a beat and looked up at Mrs. Watson. It was true-she was supposed to be at work, but... Repressing her bitterness, Irene steeled herself and smiled. ¡°I took a few days off. The chief approved my leave already.¡± Mrs. Watson had always treated her well, and was Irene¡®s only source of warmth in the mansion¨Cshe did not want to worry her. ¡°You¡®re on leave? That¡®s good ¨C just look at how skinny you are. You really should take your time to rest.¡± Mrs. Watson grinned. Irene nodded, hiding her dismay. ¡°I¡®m going upstairs for a nap now.¡± ¡°Of course. Go on,¡± Mrs. Watson replied. LIU After heading upstairs , Irene nestled on the couch and picked up herptop to edit her resume. As a medical student, she had no experience in other fields, there was nothingpatible even if she wanted to change jobs. As such, she tried to add more qualifications to her resume. 11 Fortunately, she had a few other talents other than her medical expertise , all of which Lionel had forced her to study. As a matter of fact, Lionel was staunchly against the idea of her studying medicine, and did not pay her tuition fees just to get her to give up. Even so, she worked part¨Ctime jobs so that she could pay the tuition fees for the sake of her dream. Now that she thought about it, learning more had its benefits. She wanted her own clinic, but various costs including rental and medical equipment were too much for her earnings. Moreover, she had to save up for her mother to ensure her livelihood. This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Still, she was not going to stay in the city for long¨Cshe had set her mind on leaving once her mother was better. She felt chills in her heart at the inhumane experiences Isaac had resorted her to. After submitting a resume, she also decided to apply for a position in online medical consultations. She had a medical license, so she just needed to clear the assessment. Even if Isaac stopped her from working as a doctor, could he still boss her around on the inte? After finding a reliable tform, she registered herself... Time flies when a person gets busy. It was soon evening, and Irene set herptop aside when Mrs. Watson called her downstairs for dinner. Isaac never ate dinner at home since he was alwayste¡­ but he was unusually early today. Irene did a double take when she saw him, seemingly surprised that he would show up. Even so, she was seething with spite at the thought that he was trying to have Harvey defile her again, and her hands clenched into fists at her sides. ¡°Why are you spacing out? Come on, eat,¡± Mrs. Watson called out to her then. Working hard to keep her facial expression under control, Irene sat down at the dining table, keeping her distance from Isaac. Since she could not win against him, she had to keep her head down and try not to be noticed. On the other hand, Isaac thought that she was still embarrassed over the fact that she had used the wrong spoon the other day. Running his fork through a chunk of shrimp and chewing slowly, he scoffed. ¡°Did you think you won¡®t mess up just because you keep your distance?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 24 The Runaway Groom Chapter 24 Chapter 24 Irene had no idea what Isaac was talking about. Looking up into his eyes for two heartbeats, she eventually realized what it was, but did not react. He must be humiliating her again. She simply kept her head down and ate as quickly as she could. Isaac naturally frowned because of her silence. ¡°What¡®s the hurry? No one is stealing from you.¡± He was actually perplexed ¡ªthe boorish way she wolfed her food was somehow eptable, even a little adorable. It was much better than pretentious women who put up a prim and proper act. Nheless, Irene waited until she was finally finished and drank two mouthfuls of water, before snapping,¡± How I eat is my own business. Why do you care?!¡± Jobless because of him, she had nothing to fear now-it was time to go all out! Isaac slowly looked up, his visage projecting coldness just then. ¡°You¡®re too bored, aren¡®t you?¡± What happened to her? What was with that false bravado? And her wording... She really wanted to be fired, did she not? Even so, Irene red at him coldly. ¡°I am bored, so kill me if you want. Do you think you can call yourself a man, using dirty tricks all the time?¡°. Isaac was actually left confused by what she said just then. ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Irene tried to calm herself just then, but could not do it when she remembered Harvey. Laughing coldly, she even started to call Isaac by name.¡± Don¡®t push me, Isaac Jefferson! if I really lose it, I¡®ll tell everyone that I¡®m your wife, and that I cheated on you as well! You¡®re a cuck!¡± Isaac stared at her impassively, his pupils dting without him knowing and shing fiercely. ¡°Do you know what you¡®re talking about?¡°. Irene simplyughed. ¡°Of course I do! But I¡®m not afraid of you¨Cnot after you tried to let that man rape me twice! I know I¡®ll never get anything even if I y nice, because you¡®re an animal!¡± Incensed , Isaac sprang forward and grabbed her throat, his fury fueling his murderous intent! This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. She had really gone out of line this time! Irene choked from theck of air, but squeezed her voice out of her throat despite much difficulty, ¡°That¡®s... all you can do anyway... bullying women...¡± Even as her face turned red from suffocation, Isaac¡®s arrogant visage turned into an evil sneer. ¡°Bullying women isn¡®t my forte¨Cbullying you is.¡± Meanwhile, Irene¡®s chest heaved. All oxygen had left her lungs and she could not breathe, but she still leveled a defiant and spiteful re at him. Mrs. Watson had been watching in fear, and seeing that Irene was almost dying, she braced herself and went up to them. ¡°Mr. Jefferson , your wife surely didn¡®t mean it... Please let her off this one time...¡± Isaac was not about to relent just because someone was pleading Irene¡®s case. In fact, he would see how far she could go¨Chow much more stubborn and spiteful could she be? Flustered , Mrs. Watson cried, ¡°Please, Mrs. Jefferson ¨C say something pleasant. Mr. Jefferson isn¡®t a bad man...¡± Having decided not to yield, Irene smiled in disdain as if she had just heard a joke, and turned toward Isaac. ¡°He isn¡®t... a bad man? He¡®s just... ashamed... his friend didn¡®t get me!¡± ¡°What man?¡± Isaac asked, finally noticing something strange and easing his grip on her throat. Irene quickly gasped mouthfuls of air. ¡°Didn¡®t you lure me to Blue Bridge ... so that your friend could defile me?!¡± Isaac narrowed his eyes. He suddenly felt something sharp stabbing his lungs, and breathing suddenly hurt. ¡°I did what?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 25 The Runaway Groom Chapter 25 Chapter 25 FIFI ¡°Why bother pretending? Are you not manly enough to admit what you did? Are you disappointed that I denied your friend again?!¡± Irene growled through gritted teeth and pent-up emotions. Isaac flung her aside. ¡°I didn¡®t do it!¡± He almost threw her down on the floor, and Mrs. Watson had to catch her to keep her standing. At the same time, Isaac glowcred and barked, ¡°I won¡®t let another man touch you long as you¡®re my wife, just so that you could cuck me again! Who was it?¡± Irene looked at him nkly then¨Ctaking his pride into consideration, he had no need to deny it if he really did... and he was not the type to do it, either! ¡°Speak! Who was it?!¡± Isaac barked again, feeling mysteriously furious. Even he had no idea why he was fuming just because she had almost been raped! ¡°It¡®s the man fromst time...¡± Isaac knew who it was even before Irene finished. After all, he did run into Harvey when he left Blue Bridge, so he instantly understood what had happened! There was a terrible storm brewing on his visage as he stormed outside, unable to stay calm when he imagined a scene of Irene being molested! He did not like her, but she was still his wife, even if only in name. That was why he would never let another man humiliate or defile her¨Cbecause it humiliated him as well! If anyone were to bully her, it would be him! Stepping out of his mansion, he immediately got into his car, starting the ignition as he called Stan. When Stan answered soon enough, he barked, ¡°Get me Harvey Gooding!¡± ¡°... Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± With that, Isaac hung up as his car lurched forward, and left the mansion. Half an hourter, Stan drove Harvey to Light Group¡®s offices, even as thetter grumbled, ¡°Why did you tell me toe out sote at night?¡± Stan had no idea, but he stayed silent. ¡°I¡®m leaving if you won¡®t say a thing!¡± Harvey had started to leave, when Stan caught him and said, ¡°Mr. Jefferson wants to see you.¡± This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. ¡°What for?¡± Harvey asked, just as Isaac¡®s car arrived. Isaac alighted right after he parked his car, and strode toward them, his menacing presence unfurling like a storm. Stan¡®s eyes widened. Who had managed to upset him this time? Suddenly, he turned to nce at Harvey, and backed away two paces. Harvey turned to look at Isaac, and suddenly wanted to stay away from Isaac as well. Still, as soon as he moved, Isaac asked, ¡°What were you doing at Blue Bridge?¡± Harvey quickly shook his head. ¡°Nothing.¡± ¡°Think,¡± Isaac growled , appearing calm just then¨Cbut that calmness was skin¨Cdeep. Searching his memory, Harvey then said, ¡°Honestly, nothing. I wanted to kill time at the joint, but ended up meeting Ms. Spencer fromst time... You know I¡®ve been searching for her everywhere, so I wasn¡®t about to let her off when I saw her at Blue Bridge...¡± ¡°So? What did you do to her?¡± Isaac asked, his jet ¨C ck eyes glinting coldly Harvey gulped, unsure as to why Isaac was so upset. ¡°I¡®d love to do something to her, but she¡®s really a wild cat ¨C see here? She actually bit me!¡± he eximed, extending his hand to show Isaac the deep tooth marks. Irene had bitten down so hard she drew blood! ¡°She also hit my nose, and I was bleeding and hurting for a day... Hell, I was just about to ask you where you¡®d found her. Honestly, she¡®s special... And I think I like her.¡± Isaac glowered. ¡°You like her?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 26 The Runaway Groom Chapter 26 Chapter 26 Harvey nodded¨Che really was interested in Irene, though he could not describe what he liked about her. Who knows? He might just be stirred by his impulse after being denied twice. Moreover, the fact that she had wounded him repeatedly makes for a strong memory! On the other hand, Isaac¡®s anger eased a little when he found out that Harvey did not manage to have his way with Irene... but he was furious again to find out that he liked Irene. In fact, he was even more furious than before! ¡°What do you like about her?¡± he asked, wondering to himself what was likable about that woman aside from cheating in rtionships. ¡°I don¡®t know, but one way or another, I want her,¡± Harvey replied without hesitation. Original from N?velDrama.Org. Isaac frowned, feeling as if his possession was being coveted. ¡°Stay away from her!¡± he warned sternly, which left Harvey befuddled, What was going on here? Feeling like gossiping just then, Harvey asked, ¡°Are you interested in her too, Mr. Jefferson?¡± Stan was standing behind Isaac, and turned toward Isaac as well just then¨Chis boss was certainly behaving strangely. What did he really think of Irene? Nheless, Isaac looked like he was being utterly serious as he snorted coldly. ¡°Why would I be interested in her?¡± LL Harvey pursed his lips. ¡°Everyone has different tastes ¨C you may not like her, but I do, Mr. Jefferson . As long as she isn¡®t married, I¡®m allowed to pursue her.¡± TULLI Isaac narrowed his eyes, and coldly said, ¡°She¡®s married, so don¡®t even think about it.¡± With that, he returned to his car, leaving Harvey speechless and gaping behind him. She was married? Well, it did not matter¨Ceverything banked on what Harvey himself did, not to mention that he liked her, and that was enough for him. At the same time, Stan found the entire situation strange as well ¨C his boss was getting a little too enthusiastic about Irene, was he not? Nheless, he rushed ahead of Isaac and opened the car LI door for him, greeting, ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± There was no mistaking the mes of fury in the man¡®s eyes, and even Isaac himself noticed that he was getting excessively agitated over Irene. Still, he soon found an excuse for himself ¡ª she was his wife, and he would not allow anyone else to covet her! It was perfectly reasonable for him to dislike her, but he would never let anyone else touch her! After all, this concerned a man¡®s pride! He then turned to look at Harvey, who was standing there stupidly. ¡°Don¡®t even think aboutying a finger on her. If there is a repeat of what happened at Blue Bridge, I¡®m not going to hold back.¡± Harvey was speechless once again. Issac was basically throwing Irene at Harvey¡®sp when they first met, was he not? Licking his lips, he wondered if Isaac had changed his mind and wanted Irene for himself, which was why he warned him to stay away. Be that as it may, Harvey would not y along, for he always got the women he desired! However, after Isaac drove away, Stan started to leave as well, leaving Harvey where he stood. Blinking, Harvey felt like he was missing something Then, as he started to leave, he realized that he came in Stan¡®s car. How else was he supposed to leave?! ¡°Stan Hill!¡± he bellowed. Stan simply ignored him, and drove away alone! Back at the mansion, Irene returned to her room after Isaac left, and looked in the mirror to check on the red marks where Isaac strangled her. IL It fueled her desire to leave sooner, or he would really strangle her to death if she stayed! Taking a deep breath, she took a shower, intending to go to bed early. She could not rely on her resume now¨Cshe should start job hunting by tomorrow. After undressing and getting her hair wet, she suddenly remembered that she did not bring her pajamas into the washroom. Still, she did not have to worry since Isaac never came into her room, so she focused on showering, and stepped out only in a towel. Drying her hair, she walked up to the mirror... and met Isaac¡®s icy re. She promptly turned around, clutching her chest in panic. ¡°W-What are you doing in my room?¡± Isaac was lying nonchntly on the couch, studying her without a care. ¡°Who are you trying to seduce with your womanly wiles, Irene?¡± The thought of Harvey dering his interest in her frustrated him, and he was convinced that she had seduced Harvey. Irene¡¯s crystalline gaze widened as her curled eyshes twitched, but she feigned calmness and snapped, ¡°It won¡®t be you, so you don¡®t have to worry!¡± Isaac snorted. ¡°Who is it, then?¡± At the same time, he was studying Irene¡®s fair skin and voluptuous figure¨Cwhich seemed to stir his impulse. ¡°Trying to seduce someone with that getup? Who is it? Is it me?¡± Restraining himself, Isaac tried to pretend that he was rxed and leaned on the couch, projecting even more contempt and conceit. ¡°A bby waist, blemished skin, and mosquito bites? You¡®re never going to tempt me.¡± Irene pursed her lips. She really wanted to snap at him again, but instead, she yed it cool. ¡°I guess you prefer Whitney, so I¡®ll seduce any man other than you!¡± Seduce any man?! Incensed, Isaac sprang to his feet. Irene immediately sensed danger, but before she could hide, he caught her wrist with a vice¨Clike grip. It was pure agony¨Cit felt like he was going to crush her bones. ¡°Let go...!¡± Even before finished, Isaac firmly pulled, and she lurched into his arms. She yelped when she came in contact with his muscr, warm chest, and held up her hands against him when she came to her senses. ¡°What are you doing?! Let me go!¡± Isaac did not¨Cinstead, he wrapped his hands around her waist, and held her firmly in his arms. Then, he leaned downward and whispered into her ear,¡± What wife pushes their husband away? Hmm?¡± He deliberately allowed hisst syble to trail off flirtatiously, leaving anyone who heard it blushing. Nheless, Irene simply turned away, wanting nothing less than to get away from him. ¡°We¡®re not really married. ¡°Then what would make it real?¡± he asked clearly and softly. ¡°Perhaps you want a real marriage with me?¡± Irene flushed ¨C he was being unreasonable, even though he clearly knew what she meant! Why would he warp her words? Still, she simply withstood his pressure and feigned Isaac was furious! Why did he feel so upset the more she tried to keep her distance?! ¡°You give yourself too much credit!¡± He pushed her off right then, knocking off her towel. Iren¨¦ felt a chill and looked down to find herself naked! ¡°Argh!¡± She fumbled to keep herself covered... The Runaway Groom Chapter 27 The Runaway Groom Chapter 27 Chapter 27 Isaac looked at Irene¡®s curvaceous figure, his gaze turning distant as he gulped and worked hard to keep his tone even. ¡°Did you think you could seduce me with this? In reality, he had already been seduced, but his ego did not allow him to lust after her. ¡°I¨CI¡®m not¨C¡± Irene stammered even as she picked up her towel to cover herself. ¡°Don¡®t show you filthy body in front of me ever again,¡± Isaac growled as he stormed off, mming the door loudly behind him. He strode to the other room so that he did not have to look at her, but all he could think about was her alluring figure reying repeatedly like the highlight of a movie. Unable to control his thoughts, he loosened his cor in frustration. Still, it was already loose, but he somehow could not breathe anyway! He was restless and grouchy, and he wanted to flip out so badly. ¡°That wretched woman!¡± he growled-she really was adept at seducing, and more frustratingly, he had to fall for her ploy! Taking off his necktie and undoing his shirt buttons, he strode into the washroom and sshed himself with cold water to calm himself down. It was the lowest point of his life, and it had to be her! On the other hand, Irene could not sleep. Even if she had let loose once, she was no skank¨Cshe was at once angry and embarrassed for someone to see her naked. To make things worse, she could notin about it, because she could not afford to provoke that man! The next morning, Irene arrived downstairs with dark circles under her eyes. Having learned her lesson, she was wearing a sweater and jeans. Mrs. Watson had already prepared breakfast. ¡°Where is he?¡± Irene asked. 11 IL ¡°Mr. Jefferson left early in the morning.¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°Come on, have your breakfast.¡± Irene breathed a sigh of relief inside¨Cbreakfast was actually tastier without Isaac around! She headed out afterward, but her job searchsted over the next few days without prospects. Still, Isaac did not return home, and she felt sofortable she was actually a little less wary now. At the same time, she finally had a response for one for the positions she applied to¨Cas dance instructor. Original from N?velDrama.Org. She was Level 10 in Latin dance. Although she did not have the certification to be an instructor, they were willing to let her take the test. It had been years since she danced, but the solid foundation she built as a child was still in ce, and her slim body allowed her to move with considerable elegance. The head of the dance school was a woman named Ms. Lang, and she was an agreeable person. ¡°You can retrain yourself in our studio ¨C I see that your basics are solid, and you won¡®t have problems getting certified.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene quickly replied. She certainly cherished the opportunity , since she had been yearning to work while she had been unemployed ! She thought that she could thank Lionel then. Although she never liked to dance, Lionel had threatened her with her education, and forced her to attend dance lessons in exchange She certainly did not expect the lessons to prove useful now. After a few days at the dance studio, she slowly found her stride. While she still felt no passion toward dancing, she did not feel as repulsed as she had been as a child. The children who attend the dance school were between the ages of four and twelve. Irene herself was teaching a junior ss, which consisted of girls around six to seven years old. Her childish innocence and cheerful nature slowly returned as she worked with children, and she forgot about her life¡®s troubles for a moment. After thest ss, Ms. Lang approached her with a sinile. ¡°Would you happen to be free tonight, Ms. Spencer?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°I am.¡± She thought that Ms. Lang had an errand concerning their workce, only for Ms. Lang to catch her by surprise. ¡°So, I wanted to ask... Do you happen to have a boyfriend? The Runaway Groom Chapter 28 The Runaway Groom Chapter 28 Chapter 28 ¡°... No,¡± Irene replied. She and Isaac were married only in name, so she did not actually have a boyfriend. Ms. Lang beamed just then, and linked arms with Irene intimately. ¡°So, I have a favor to ask.¡± Over thest few days Irene worked at the dance school, Ms. Lang had taken good care of her, but her sudden gesture of intimacy still left Irene unsettled. Gently pulling her arm off Ms. Lang¡®s, Irene said, ¡°If it¡®s within my ability, you need just ask¨C I apologize in advance if it isn¡®t.¡± Hesitating for a moment, Ms. Lang then said, ¡°Well, my husband is the owner of Dorime Pharmaceuticals, and he has a research team developing a medicine against cancer. He¡¯s spent massive amounts of capital, and there had been some progress when he ran out of funds. That¡®s why he¡®s looking to secure an investment, but as you can tell, not everyone is that eager. Luckily, my husband found an interested party recently, but thest meeting was a no¨Cshow from them. That¡®s why my husband had the feeling they might ghost... Moreover, the other party is single and an eligible bachelor...¡± ¡°Hold on...¡± Irene cut her short. ¡°I don¡®t understand.¡± What did all that have to do with her? She did not have the capital to invest, even though as a doctor, she hoped that there were more of such pharmaceutical industries. In fact, she would be willing to help for nothing in return if she was rich, but the reality was that she was a working ss person, and she could not be of help. ¡°Well,¡± Ms. Lang said, cutting to the chase, ¡°my husband is thinking about bringing along a pretty face to the meeting...¡± ¡°Wait...¡± Irene murmured as realization struck her¨Cso, she was going to hang out with the investor to get Ms. Lang¡®s husband his funding... or worse? Hence, she quickly refused. ¡°Thank you for offering me a job, but I¡®m not that kind of girl, and I¡®m really bad at sweet¨Ctalking people. That¡®s why I can¡®t help you.¡± Ms. Lang was aware that she was making things hard for Irene, and since it was a stretch anyway, she waved her off in slight disappointment. ¡°I know I¡®m asking for too much.¡± She sighed. ¡°But my husband just can¡®t get an investor, and he would rather not ept foreign investment, since that means being controlled, which is something he doesn¡®t want.¡± Irene looked at Ms. Lang then. After getting to know her, Irene found her a kind and dutiful person. While she was strict toward her students and her fellow instructors , she was also understanding. She was a ¡®what you see is what you get¡® sort of person. ¡°I understand where you¡®reing from¨CI used to be a doctor,¡± Irene said, clenching her fingers. She knew very well that the involvement of foreign capital would result in the medication price being controlled by foreign investors despite sessful research, and the ones who would suffer were the poor who could not afford it. Even if she was not a doctor now, her sense of duty never waned. ¡°I could try?¡± she said, even though she was inexperienced and had no confidence in seeding. Ms. Lang was in her forties, and her figure was well maintained since she was a dancer. Though her face was slowly showing signs of aging, she was elegant and did not appear to suffer from stress, which was a testimony to her loving marriage with her husband. Irene envied Ms. Lang, for she had a fulfilling marriage while being able to retain her passion to her satisfaction. On the other hand, Irene was doing a job that had nothing to do with her dreams, while her marriage was a mess. ¡°Really?¡± Ms. Lang eximed in delight as she held Irene¡®s hand. ¡°Thank you!¡± ¡°You don¡®t have to thank me yet¨C I don¡®t know if I¡®ll be of any help,¡± Irene replied modestly. ¡°It¡®s fine!¡± Ms. Lang chirped. ¡°As long as we do our best!¡± Irene was still nervous after epting Ms. Lang¡®s request. She put on makeup for once, dressed more boldly than usual, and took a trip to the pharmacy just in case. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. She was not such a great person that she would willingly sacrifice herself. Soon, she arrived at the luxury diner where she found Ms. Lang and her husband, Mark Wickers. He had white hair above his sideburns although he had yet to reach his fifties. As she took her seat, the door to their private room opened again. She looked up and saw Stan, who was followed by a towering figure outside the doorway. The Runaway Groom Chapter 29 The Runaway Groom Chapter 29 Chapter 29 Irene froze when she saw Isaac¡®s burly figure entering the room. At the same time, Mark got up and greeted Isaac respectfully. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Somehow, Isaac¡®s eyes darted past Mark¡®s face andnded on Irene. Ever since he knew her, she never put on any makeup, and her usual sense of fashion tended to be conservative. In fact, he never saw her in anything with straps¨Cbut now, she wore a dress so red it seemed to entuate the blush in her skin. Mark noticed that Irene was not moving, and reached out to tug at her. ¡°Come on, please stand and greet Mr. Jefferson.¡± However, when Mark¡®s fingers touched Irene¡®s hand, Isaac¡®s expression darkened. If he was not sane, he would have rushed forward and pulled Irene toward himself. At the same time, Irene stood up, her dress entuating her perfect figure, addingyers to her coquettish side for no reason. Batting his eyshes, there was a brief sh that quickly disappeared from Isaac¡¯s eyes. On the other hand, Irene was nervous¨Cshe did not expect that they were going to meet Isaac! If she did, she would never have agreed to this! ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± she stammered. TA LL ¡°This is Ms. Spencer.¡± Mark smiled as he introduced her, and beckoned for her to pull out a chair for Issac. Irene clenched her fingers. She was sweating bullets from her palms, just as she was unsure why she was so afraid of Isaac. Perhaps it was because he constantly humiliated her, bullying her andpelling her to tiptoe around him. Either way, she was on edge, even as she pretended not to know him and pulled out a chair for him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± After Isaac sat, Irene was about to leave when Isaac caught her by the wrist. L LL Still, it was amon scene when it came to beauties hovering around the negotiation table. In fact, most parties who had a favor to ask tended to have something like this ready¨Cthesedies were pawns to be sacrificed, and Irene was one of them. His wife, reduced to offering her body! Hmph. He chuckled darkly, even as Irene felt as if he was going to crush her wrist. She was shivering in pain, and wanting nothing less than to escape his grip and turn to run. However, she would draw Mark¡®s attention if she did, so she had to stay and sh pretty smiles, or even fawn over Isaac. Stan, who was standing behind Isaac, nced at Irene just then, while wondering what she was ying at. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. If she showed her face in public like this, what would people think of his boss if they found out that she was his wife? Would Isaac have an ounce of dignity left? Isaac looked up at Irene coldly then, and turned to Mr. Wickers. Despite knowing the answer, he asked, ¡°Why did you bring a woman like her here, Mr. Wickers?¡± Mark smiled, sensing that Isaac was interested in Irene.¡± She¡®s a dance instructor at my wife¡®s dance school, and I thought she could join us to liven things up.¡± ¡°Dance instructor?¡± Isaac was surprised. Was Irene not a doctor? How did she suddenly be a dance instructor? ¡°Yes. Would you like to see her dance?¡± Mark smiled. Isaac wiped his fingers with a napkin then. His hands were not dirty, but he was simply ufortable. Then, he rose to his feet and said, ¡°I would prefer a personal performance.¡± With that, he pulled Irene along by the wrist and told Stan, ¡°You¡®re in charge now.¡± Mark quickly asked, ¡°What about the investment...?¡± Isaac had already looked into Mark¡®s research results and was willing to invest before. Now, however... ¡°That depends on Ms. Spencer here,¡± he replied with a meaningful smile. Mark had more to say, but Stan stopped him. ¡°Shall we continue, Mr. Wickers?¡± He certainly knew what his boss was thinking, after working as his assistant for a while now. After they left the private room, Isaac pulled Irene along and left the diner, before shoving her into his car. ¡°I¡¯ve really underestimated you, Irene. How much lower can you sink?!¡± To think that he felt intoxicated with her that night... In truth, his will and emotions had never been so warped and captivated by a woman to the point that his heart and mind were affected. He felt indignant that something that crushed his rationality so resoundingly would happen. He had never been this weak, nor been so afraid to face a person! The Runaway Groom Chapter 30 The Runaway Groom Chapter 30 Chapter 30 Isaac refrained from returning to the mansion because he did not want a repeat of that night. Even so, she had to show up in front of him again, and in this state! Her makeup and devilish fashion to curry a man¡®s favor left him wanting to strangle her. If he was not the one who came today, she was going to be flirting with some other man, was she not? His ire burgeoning, inconsble rage rushed up his brain and stopped him from thinking. All he wanted was to possess her! He hence moved so quickly that, before Irene caught his intention or realized what was happening, he had already jammed his lips against hers. ¡°Oof_¡± She tried to struggle, but as soon as her hands moved, he caught them and pinned them above her head, locking her against her seat. The kiss was brutish and invasive. Devoid of tenderness, it was more akin to a punishment¨Can expression of desire and possessiveness! Her lips were soft and had a sweetness like no other. Feeling a strong sense of familiarity , Isaac¡®s lust red. On the other hand, Irene was trembling in pain, but she had to take it since she could not resist. Minutester, when Isaac came to his senses and slowly pulled away, he looked between her tearful eyes and her scarlet lips that still bore the markings of his violence. His Adam¡®s apple bobbing, he growled hoarsely, ¡°As long as we¡¯re married, you¡®re not allowed to leave the house and flirt with other men. Do you hear me?!¡± Irene¡®s heart was pounding. Her eyes welled with so much tears that her eyshes caught some. Who did he think he was? Was she really that easily bullied? ring at him furiously, she snapped, ¡°Isaac, you¡®re the one who denied me the chance to work at Central Hospital, and you made me lose my job! I¡®m just human I still have to make a living! Not letting me out of the house? Are you going to pay everything for me now?!¡± Isaac¡®s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Central Hospital?¡± Irene pushed him away. ¡°Stop pretending ! You told Dr. King to give the internship to Whitney Cox!¡± ¡°I didn¡®t...¡± Isaac began, but soon realized that he did tell the chief of Charity Hospital to ¡®take good care of Whitney. In other words, Whitney only got the internship because of Isaac¡®s influence! Meanwhile, Irene snarled through gritted teeth, ¡°Not only are you denying me my dream, but you¡®ve also taken away the career I¡®d worked so hard for! I hate you!¡± Sitting up, she pushed him away and managed to catch him by surprise, knocking him backward and leaving him a little ragged. Irene tried to stride away, but she was not used to heels, which she had worn to match her dress. Walking a little too quickly, she inadvertently sprained her foot. Isaac reacted quickly, darting forward to catch her, and shended softly in his arms, leaving his heart fluttering. Her waist was just so soft, and it felt like it would snap if he was a little forceful. pping him, Irene cried, ¡°Let go!¡± Isaac ignored her struggling and simply scooped her up in his arms, then threw her back into his car, growling,¡± Stop it!¡± Nheless, there was no edge in his voice ¡ª he actually sounded more patient, as if trying to soothe her. Even so, Irene was utterly wounded. ¡°What do you want from me? You want me dead, don¡®t you?¡± Isaac turned his back on her then, so that she did not see that he was losing hisposure. ¡°It¡®s your fault for not listening.¡± Ireneughed despite herself. He was pushing her over the brink, and now she was the one at fault? Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. This was outrageous! ¡°I want a divorce!¡± she bellowed, not caring about the agreement she had signed with Henry. All she wanted right now was to get away from him, or she would really end up dead! Be that as it may, her words somehow left him angry. As he turned toward her again, his usual apathy returned, and his re was sharp, like a tiger leering at its prey.¡± Don¡®t forget that you had an agreement with my grandfather. What are you going to insist on a divorce and break that agreement?¡± Whitney had just happened to step out of the diner when she heard Isaac¡®s voice. She looked up, and her eyes widened as she found Irene in Isaac¡¯s car! The Runaway Groom Chapter 31 The Runaway Groom Chapter 31 Chapter 31 Why would Irene and Isaac be talking to each other, and did she really just hear Isaac mentioning a divorce? What was going on? Whitney sneaked up, intent on eavesdropping for an answer! Meanwhile, Irene hung her head, sullen as a toad-this was going to be the hardest decision she had ever made. If she left right now, she would be breaking her promise to Henry, who had basically rescued her mother and paid for her surgery. She owed him, and she would be an ingrate if she left Isaac. This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. It left her in a dilemma, but she suddenly looked up. ¡°Weren¡¯t you eager for a divorce? Why are you refusing now that I want one? You didn¡¯t fall for me, did you?¡± Isaac froze for a moment, but he soon startedughing icily. ¡°Oh, I just want to keep you around and make you suffer! Fall for you? Dream on!¡± Irene bit her lip, realizing how terrible the man before her was! He would do anything just to torment her, including using their marriage as a tool! He was truly rotten to the core! To no one¡¯s surprise, Isaac reverted to his usual ruthlessness in the next instant. ¡°Get out!¡± Irene promptly alighted, thinking to herself that she did not want to be in his car anyway! However, her sprained foot hurt more than she expected and she lost her bnce, once against falling into Isaac¡¯s arms. He clearly felt the firmness and warmth of her breasts pressing against his own chest, and though he stiffened, he sneered. ¡°You really won¡¯t give up any chance to seduce me, huh?¡± Irene¡¯s face was crimson from frustration. He was being a shameless jerk here! Still, she was not about to squabble with him, and simply took off her heels since they were making her gait unsteady, resorting to walking barefooted. Isaac¡¯s expression darkened as he stared at her dainty figure and the fair skin on her slim legs. Be that as it may, he deliberately floored the gas pedal so that his car bounded past her, kicking up a gust that sent her skirt floating into the air. She had to press it down, and red at his departing car. How childish could he be?! Nheless, that was when a woman called out from behind. ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Irene turned around to find Whitney standing nearby, ring at her with naked hatred while her visage contorted with savagery. She almost lost her mind when she realized that Irene and Isaac were married! She had invited Isaac to her own farewell party, and tried to unt her rtionship with him. On the other hand, Irene had pretended she did not know Isaac all this while. Did she just want to see her make a fool of herself? Whitney certainly felt like a monkey at a circus right then! No matter how much she unted, she was nothing to Irene. At the same time, she did not understand- how could a woman like Irene marry Isaac? Did she have anything going on for her? She might be on the pretty side, but she was skinny and there was nothing alluring about her. Why would anyone like her? . She must have done something underhanded! Meanwhile, Irene was still stunned to find Whitney there. Still, she soon realized that Whitney must have been dining here as well, and saw her with Isaac! ¡°You misunderstand¡±. She had barely spoken when a crazed Whitney lunged at her so quickly she could not react, and pped her across the face, instantly leaving a burning mark on her cheek! The Runaway Groom Chapter 32 The Runaway Groom Chapter 32 Chapter 32 Whitney¡¯s hair was disheveled like a madwoman¡¯s, and she was wing at Irene as she yelled, ¡°You bitch!¡± . Irene was left stunned for seconds, but when she came to her senses, she pushed Whitney away unceremoniously! However, she forgot that she was holding her shoes, and the heel scratched a red scar over Whitney¡¯s face! ¡°How dare you hit me back!¡± Whitney screamed, her eyes bulging in rage. Still, when she tried to charge at Irene again, Irene coolly warned, ¡°Hit me again, and I¡¯m calling the cops.¡± Whitney paused right then, her upraised hand freezing mid-air. She calmed hersell-this was not the time to lose herself. Isaac¡¯s marriage to Irene had never been announced. Did that not mean that Isaac did not like her? Moreover, Isaac had promised to marry her. Did that not mean Isaac would divorce Irene at any time? The very thought calmed her, and she remembered that she had left a bad impression when she asked Isaac for money before. What would he think of her if she hurt Irene now? She still had a chance ¡ª Isaac and Irene did not announce their marriage, because they did not want anyone to know. In the end, she and Isaac were ¡®destined¡¯ for each other. ¡°I¡¯m warning you, Irene!¡± she screamed hysterically. ¡°Don¡¯t try to take Isaac from me. He¡¯s mine!¡± Though she understood, she could not ept that Irene was married to Isaac. She was the rightful Mrs. Jefferson! Irene quietly watched as Whitney lost her wits. She never had any intention ofpeting against Whitney for Isaac¡¯s affection, and somehow stumbled upon Whitney¡¯s alter ego¡­ She was just like a fishwife, but one could only expect that much from Isaac¡¯s tastes. ¡°Just you wait!¡± Whitney growled as she shot Irene a vicious look just then, and turned to leave Irene was left standing there, spacing out, when Stan stepped out of the diner. ¨C He had just concluded negotiations with Mark, and found Irene standing by the door. Looking around but not finding Isaac, he approached her and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Mr. Jefferson?¡± Irene pulled down her hair to hide her cheeks. ¡°He left.¡± Despite her best efforts, Stan saw the red palm print on her face, and his heart skipped a beat just then. Did Isaac p her? Having followed Isaac around for a while now, he knew how callous Isaac can be¡­ But surely liitting a woman was too far! ¡°Well¡­¡± he began, pausing for a moment in hesitation before continuing, ¡°I think you should be wary of your own status in whatever you do. Even if your marriage to Mr. Jefferson isn¡¯t publicly known, you¡¯re still his wife. I mean, what would Mr. Wickers think of Mr. Jefferson if he were to find out?¡± Irene looked into Stan¡¯s eyes then, and really wanted to ask the man if she would have to work as a dance instructor if Isaac was not basically trying to kill her? She would not have met Ms. Lang and Mr. Wickers otherwise, let alone be here! In the end, Isaac had caused everything! Still, she decided to bear with it. This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I¡¯ll watch out,¡± she said, pausing for a moment before asking, ¡°By the way, will your boss agree to the investment?¡± ¡°Of course-Mr. Jefferson had nned to invest in Mr. Wickers¡¯ business in the first ce,¡± Stan exined. Irene sighed in relief inwardly, and cheered up considerably. At least the day did not end on apletely sour note. ¡°Thank you,¡± she told Stan, and tried to get a taxi. Stan stayed long enough to ensure that she was not going back to Mark, and left. Nheless, there were not many taxis around the diner, and she took out her phone to check the time after a while. That was when a car slowly stopped near here. ¡°May I give you a ride?¡± Irene looked up at the person in the car, her eyes abruptly widening. Why did it have to be him?! The Runaway Groom Chapter 33 The Runaway Groom Chapter 33 Chapter 33 Irene took a step back in rm as Harvey studied her from head to toe. . She appeared a little disheveled, but it did not dull her beauty-her red gown only entuated her womanly wiles further. Original from N?velDrama.Org. His expression darkened, and the thought of her repeatedly hurting him field his impulse to seize her and give her her just deserts! Alighting, he said, ¡°We keep running into each other, don¡¯t we?¡± Irene turned to run, but Harvey slid in front of her thanks to prior experience. ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Irene turned pale in fear, because she knew very well what he wanted. ¡°Irene Spencer, was it? Did you use to y football? Have you any idea how much my nose bled after you hit me?!¡± Harvey snarled, because she was the first to absolutely wreck him! He approached her as he spoke, and Irene backed away, barefooted as she was still holding her heels and staring at him warily. Nheless, that was when Stan suddenly returned. Seeing what was happening, he quickly alighted to stand between Harvey and Irene. ¡°Had a little too much to drink, Mr. Gooding?¡± Harvey raised a brow at him. ¡°Look who¡¯s talking.¡± Stan warned him then, knowing what he was up to. ¡°Did you forget what Mr. Jefferson told you?¡± Harvey¡¯s eyes shed, but he chuckled. ¡°No, I haven¡¯t.¡± With that, he avoided a direct confrontation against Stan-Irene was not getting away any time soon! Even as he returned to his car, he turned to give Irene, who flinched and hid behind Stan, a look. ¡°I¡¯ll be driving you home,¡± Stan said. Irene followed him into his car, and asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you leave?¡± ¡°I did,¡± Stan replied. Isaac had called him halfway to drive her home, but he did not mention that. Irene thought that he had something to do, so refrained from asking and simply sat quietly in the car. However, Stan could not resist peeking at her face and his impulse to gossip. ¡°Did Mr. Jefferson hit you?¡± Irene was arching her back and rubbing her ankles. To her, Whitney and Isaac were one and the same¨Cit did not matter who actually hit her. ¡°More or less,¡± she replied. Stan promptly kept his eyes on the road without ncing at her again. They soon returned to the mansion, with Mrs. Watson greeting Irene when she entered. ¡°Have you had dinner?¡± she asked. ¡°Yeah, thanks for asking,¡± Irene replied and headed upstairs. She opened herptop, and it jingled with a notification: she had cleared her assessment to be an online medical consultant, and her application had since been approved. She would be paid by the hour and number of consultations. It was better suited as a part-time job to earn some money on the side, and was not suitable as a long- term upation. Still, it was a decent arrangement for Irene since it more or less involved doctoring. Getting up, she headed to her wardrobe, ready to shower and change into fresh clothes, but herptop jingled with another notification, this time for a consultation request. However, it turned out to be a question regarding andrology, which left her wondering if there was a system error or if she had made a mistake while filling in her particrs. But even if she was not well-versed in andrology, consultations must be answered. After a brief exchange, Irene managed to give an answer and offer the patient assurance. (Thank you!) The patient was clearly satisfied, and Irene replied before heading to the shower again. Soon, there was sshing from the bathroom, which concealed the creaking when the door opened. Isaac entered, nced at the bathroom. In that instant, he remembered the scene of her towel slipping off and leaving her naked even as she stood. He furrowed his brow in frustration-was he out of his mind? Why would he feel desire for her?! He turned to leave, but that was when Irene¡¯sptop jingled on the couch with another notification. He turned again to look, curious as to what it was about. It turned out that Irene did not turn off the chat window with that patient just now, who was now consulting her over further questions. Isaac narrowed his eyes. What could this be about? He scrolled through the chat records, frowning further the more he read, just before a new message arrived. (Are you married? Are you satisfied with your life?] Isaac was left staring and blinking at the message. At the same time, Irene stepped out of the bathroom in a conservative set of pajamas, covering up to her wrist and ankles and only baring her neck. She was drying her hair, and did not appear surprised to find Isaac in the room. In the end, this was his territory. There was nothing she could do if he wanted to be there. Even so¡­ ¡°This may be your house, but you shouldn¡¯t intrude upon the privacy of others without permission,¡± she said as she walked over and closed theptop. ¡°Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s impolite? And hardly a gentleman¡¯s behavior.¡± Isaac, however, looked up coldly. ¡°You¡¯re a married woman, so behave like one. What do you think you¡¯re chatting with strange men?¡± The thought that she would have such discussions with other men was no different from cheating. It made him feel unbearable! ¡°Can¡¯t you read?¡± Irene, however, ignored his irk since he always got upset out of the blue. She held his gaze with disinterest-and even a slight mockery. ¡°If you have any such questions, I can answer you right here.¡± Isaac¡¯s face turned ashen. Was she doubting his potency?! ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Nheless, she had already picked up herptop and ran-having experienced dealing with him now, she knew that he could not do a thing if she ran quickly enough. Isaac watched as she left, and was left dumbfounded. She was running?! Bzzi! Isaac¡¯s phone was suddenly buzzing with a call, and he took it out of this pocket and answered. ¡°Mr. Jefferson,¡± Stan said from the other end, ¡°Whitney Cox is asking to see you.¡± ¡°Turn her down,¡± Isaac replied. Stan appeared hesitant then. ¡°I think it¡¯s something important¡­¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Isaac growled. He would not allow her to meet him, but was at least willing to hear her out since she had saved his life. ¡°She¡¯s asking for a favor ¨C her best friend Irene Spencer is jobless at the moment, so she was hoping to have her go with her to Central Hospital for the internship.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 34 The Runaway Groom Chapter 34 Chapter 34 On the other end, Stan ryed Whitney¡¯s message word-for-word without revealing the fact that he was acquainted with Irene. Meanwhile, Isaac¡¯s expression appeared to soften, and he was surprised that Whitney would ask for a favor for Irene. ¡°I¡¯ll do what I can,¡± he replied. However, his quick response was not for Whitney¡¯s sake. Instead, he did not want Irene to stay jobless, having to present herself in a risque fashion and apany strange men. Likewise, chatting about such¡­ private affairs with other men online was uneptable as well! Seeing the message with that man just now was uneptable! ¡°Understood,¡± Stan said, hung up and ryed what he said to Whitney. Even so, she was not at all happy, Isaac was refusing to see her. The next morning, when Irene arrived at the dance studio, Ms. Lang held her hands and thanked her repeatedly. ¡°Thank you so much! Mr. Jefferson has agreed to invest in my husband¡¯s business! But¡­ he also told me that Mr. Jefferson dragged you away-are you alright? Did he do anything to you?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± That was when her phone rang in her pocket¨Cit was a call from Whitney, and she hesitated for a while before answering. ¡°Irene? I¡¯m sorry aboutst night. My temper got the better of mest night, so please don¡¯t hold it against me. Also, I asked for a favor from Isaac, so you can attend the internship at Central Hospital. Think of it as my way of apology, and remember to clock inat 9 AM.¡± Irene frowned-Whitney never usually beliaved like this. Still, she was not about to miss such an opportunity. ¡°Got it.¡± She told Ms. Lang that she was resigning right then, and Ms. Lang was very agreeable, even paying her right then and there. ¡°Here, this is what you¡¯ve earned.¡± However, when handed two stacks of hundred dor bills, Irene only took a few-she had not been working that long and did not deserve so much, and so simply took what she believed she deserved. Seeing her virtue just then, Ms. Lang said, ¡°You cane to me if you have any trouble in the future. I won¡¯t turn you down if I can help.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied earnestly. After leaving the dance studio, Irene rushed straight to Central Hospital, arriving just shortly before nine in the morning. This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Whitney was waiting, and brought her to the chief ¨C he was a male doctor in her fifties, and told Irene to defer to Whitney, since Whitney had been there for days before her. Irene did not protest, but in reality, Whitney had a hand in the arrangement. She was an intern and had no right to boss anyone, but by using her connection to Isaac, she could browbeat anyone. Later, when Whitney took Irene to get her uniform, she asked, ¡°When did you marry Isaac?¡± Irene knew that she was not that charitable, and was not surprised that she would reveal her intentions already. Nheless, she smiled. ¡°I¡¯m not at ease to reveal that.¡± Whitney shed a smile that did not reach her eyes and lied, saying, ¡°It¡¯s fine. He did tell me that you¡¯re not together because you like each other.¡± Irene remained calm, but she thought then that Isaac and Whitney were really close. Seeing that she was not responding, Whitney knew right then that her hunch was right: Isaac and Irene were not an ordinary married couple. After all, should a wife not be upset upon finding out that her husband was cheating on her, or at least interrogate him? Irene, however, acted like it was of no consequence. Still, after getting her uniform, she felt like she could vomit. ¡°I need the washroom,¡± she said as she shook off Whitney, while feeling something foreboding. Her period was veryte, and despite feeling that it was unlikely, she got a pregnancy test from the pharmacy¡­ and it turned out to be positive! She was dumbfounded ¨C how did this happen? She had clearly taken her morning after pills¡­ although the second pill was in her bag, forgotten after Isaac had caught her with However, taking just one pill only offered a sess rate of 80%, even though she and that man had only done it once. Still sitting on the toilet, her thoughts were scattered. The Runaway Groom Chapter 35 The Runaway Groom Chapter 35 Chapter 35 What should she do? This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Irene could not believe that she was pregnant, but quicklyposed herself and left to get an ultrasound. Through it all, she wondered if the pregnancy test results might be wrong, but the scan revealed that she was two months pregnant. ¡°Congrattions, you have twins!¡± Irene was utterly dumbfounded. She was really pregnant? And with twins?! ¡°Are you sure there¡¯s no mistake?¡± she asked hoarsely. ¡°Of course not. Why would there be? See here? Two gestational sacs,¡± the doctor said as she moved the inouse cursor, outlining the area. Irene craned her neck for a look, and seeing the ultrasound left her overwhelmed with various emotions. ¡°However, I can see that you¡¯re not feeling well. You should rest more now that you¡¯re pregnant,¡± the doctor said then. ¡°Understood,¡± Irene replied. With that, she picked up the ultrasound sheet and left the ultrasound room. Whitney saw Irene leaving and entered. She probed the doctor and found out right then that Irene was pregnant! She was left gritting her teeth in fury, and wanted nothing less than to kill Irene right then! After all, if Isaac learned that Irene was pregnant with his child, would she stand a chance? Obviously not. Still, she yed it cool and sought Irene out, telling her with a smile, ¡°¡®You¡¯ve just started your internship, so how about taking the night shift with me?¡± Irene nodded. There was a surgery in the afternoon. They would be doing the prep work while the head surgeon of the hospital did the hard work. He told them that they should observe and learn the process of the surgery no matter what hospital they worked at before¨Cit was a necessary process is they want to be surgeons here as well. However, while Irene was learning as she worked so seriously she forgot that she was pregnant, Whitney had no suchi intention, and was constantly darting and looking at Irene¡¯s belly from time to time. After working for half a day, she was exhausted, but there was still the night shift. She had a drink, but her vision turned blurry, and she soon lost consciousnesspletely¡­ ¡°Irene? Irene?¡± Irene vaguely heard someone calling her name and slowly opened her eyes, but soon frowned because she realized she was aching all over. Finding herself somewhere unfamiliar, she blurted, ¡°Where am I?¡± ¡°In my car,¡± Zachary replied. Irene clutched her belly and sat up while looking around. ¡°Why am I in your car?¡± She remembered that she had a night shift. ¡°You were lying unconscious in the parking lot,¡± Zachary exined. ¡°I forgot something at the hospital and came back. I presumed that it was you at first, so I thought I was seeing things-but it really was you after I came closer. Why are you here at Central Hospital?¡±, ¡°I got the internship,¡± Irene replied. Zachary blinked in surprise. ¡°Isaac forgave you?¡± Irene then remembered Whitney, and soon realized why she was at the parking lot. The drink she had was given to her by Whitney. They were doctors-they knew their drugs, which was why Irene suspected nothing when she had that drink. But what did Whitney do after knocking her out? That was when she felt an ache in her belly. Panicking, she listed her shirt to check her own body, and her eyes widened when she spotted the needle hole. Did Whitney find out she was pregnant? Was that why Whitney knocked her out and performed amniocentesis on her?! ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing, Irene Spencer?!¡± Isaac had promptly rushed to the scene when he got the call from Zachary, only to find Irene lifting her shirt in front of another man, baring her fair, slim waist! How shameless could she get?! The Runaway Groom Chapter 36 The Runaway Groom Chapter 36 Chapter 36 On the other hand, Irene remembered Whitney¡¯s rtionship with Isaac, and did not react well to Isaac¡¯s presence-not after what Whitney had done to her. ¡°I can do whatever I want. Why do you care?¡± She was utterly panicked just moments ago. Even though she had every intention to get an abortion after learning about her pregnancy, her rationality left her when she found out that someone was trying to hurt her children. The fear of loss-the fear of her children being hurt-had seized her. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. Moreover, Whitney had found out that she and Isaac were married, and must have presumed that the children were Isaac¡¯s. Was that why Whitney had tried to hurt them? Her nerves getting the better of herself, Irene forgot that Zachary was with her as she lifted her shirt. At the same time, Zachary saw Isaac¡¯s murderous gaze. He gestured for Irene to get off as he quickly exined, ¡°I saw nothing.¡± Once that was done, he quickly drove off, fearful that Isaac¡¯s wrath would catch him. Be that as it may, Irene pursed her lips and red at Isaac hostilely! It left Isaac frowning. He had yet to punish her, and she wanted to turn the tables already? She was simply outrageous! ¡°Get in the car!¡± he barked. Irene did so, but jibed, ¡°Birds of the same feather flock together!¡± ¡°What was that?!¡± Isaac grabbed her chin right then. ¡°You really want to die, don¡¯t you? Did you forget everything I said?!¡± His hold was firm, almost dislocating her jaw, but she sharply shot back, ¡°I do remember, but I won¡¯t y along. Why are you demanding that I act like a wife, when you aren¡¯t doing the same?¡± The thought of what Whitney had done to her left her incensed! ¡°If you don¡¯t want me to be around men, fine-only if you cut off Whitney Cox! Can you do that?¡± Isaac¡¯s dark expression abruptly eased, and he listed a brow while asking a little cheerfully, ¡°What are you jealous?¡± Irene promptly denied it. ¡°Why would I be?¡± Isaac¡¯s face fell right then she was truly amazing, having a million ways to upset him! ¡°Your mother is staying at Charity Hospital, isn¡¯t she?¡± he said as he leaned in, his warm breath that was filled with a man¡¯s possessiveness leaving her cheek hot. ¡°Go on, keep pissing me off.¡± Irene flinched, but flew into a rage in the next instant and grabbed his neck-her mother had always been her Achilles¡¯ heel. In fact, she could bear with anything he would throw at her, but not if he threatened her mother! ¡°If you touch her, I swear I¡¯ll take you down even if it kills me!¡± Isaac did not move, suddenly realizing that even though she was weak, her ws were sharp-she certainly did not hesitate to fight back once pushed over the edge. Smiling, he said quietly, ¡°Go on, strangle me. I¡¯m giving you the chance.¡± Stan nced behind through at the rearview mirror, and felt a desire to give Irene a thumbs up right then. Amazing! She actually dared to wring Isaac¡¯s neck! Be that as it may, Irene was never going to kill him. While anger could drive people to resort to radical behavior, they would likewise withdraw when they calmed down. Though she slowly released his neck, she made herself clear. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t tell me to act like a wife because I¡¯d never ask you to act like my husband. Ask me again when you can actually behave like one.¡± She drew the line in the sand! Whitney was threatening the children in her belly, and as a mother, it was a basic instinct to respond and retaliate! ¡°Fine.¡± Isaac, however, agreed to it without hesitation. It left Irene surprised. ¡°Aren¡¯t you in love with Whitney?¡± Why would he agree to this? Whitney had even bragged to her today that Isaac had told her everything. In fact, Irene only got her job back because Whitney had asked him. He was very difficult to reason with, because even someone like Zachary had failed to persuade him to be soft on her¡­ And yet, Whitney had managed it. Suddenly, Irene was a little confused about Isaac¡¯s rtionship with Whitney. In reality, Isaac did not want to talk about Whitney at all. His face stiffening, he growled, ¡°Don¡¯t ask.¡± ¡°Then could I ask you not to ask me so many questions, including my rtionships with men?¡± Irene shot back Isaac realized right then that she could really leave him fuming every waking minute! ¡°Could you shut the fuck up?!¡± he snapped. The Runaway Groom Chapter 37 The Runaway Groom Chapter 37 Chapter 37 Irene raised her chin defiantly because she must. ¡°No,¡± she retorted. Giving in, Isaac exined, ¡°There¡¯s nothing between us, but I have to offer her special privileges after certain things happened-thats all.¡± It was outrageous that he would exin himself to anyone, but ever since he learned that Whitney had a boyfriend, he felt nothing for her ever again. The night they shared? The tender moment? All those sentiment, gone! All he felt for her now was tolerance, just because she had saved him that night. Feelings had nothing to do with it! At the same time, Irene¡¯s eyes widened as if she had discovered some incredible secret. So he was just being nice because he owed her-there was no sentiment involved. She grinned, a marvelous idea urring to her just then. Isaac frowned. ¡°What are you smiling at?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± she replied, but her tone was gentle like never before, which left Isaac beside himself in shock! He looked at her, puzzled and wondering why she was acting so strangely. Somehow, Irene¡¯s enthusiasm continued to the next morning. She made breakfast, even going so far as to ask Mrs. Watson about what Isaac liked the eagerness to please him was too obvious. Sitting by the dining table, Isaac¡¯s gaze swept over the breakfast that looked exceedingly scrumptious, and he quickly exposed her. ¡°Tell me, then-what is it you want?¡± . Irene shed a fawning smile, while heating a ss of milk for him affectionately.¡± Why don¡¯t you have a taste of my cooking? Do you like it?¡± Isaac took a bite of the fried egg she made, chewed a little before saying seriously, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Mrs. Watson cooks better.¡± Irene wanted to roll her eyes then¨Chow could fried eggs taste different? Did he somehow identify two different vors? Still, she needed his help, so she maintained her smile. ¡°I¡¯ll keep doing my best until you¡¯re satisfied.¡± Soon, Isaac was finished, and picked up his napkin to wipe his mouth elegantly. ¡°Still not going to tell me? I¡¯m leaving soon.¡± ¡°Could you give me a ride to the hospital?¡± Irene quickly asked. Isaac nced at her sideways, seeing through her right then but staying silent. She really was a vengeful bitch¡­ and he somehow liked it? Still, he agreed to it, and she bowed reverently. ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± he replied. After Irene groomed herself and stepped outside the mansion, Isaac¡¯s car was already waiting Collecting cars had always been an interest of men, and Isaac was no exception. While he usually traveled in an MPV or in his Maybach, there were over ten limited-edition prestige cars in the underground garage. Irene rarely saw him take them out, but today, he was driving a limited-edition Bentley. It was at once noble and ostentatious, and its very presence was intimidating! Still, Irene did not feel awkward despite Isaac seeing through her intentions, and she smiled cheerfully. In the car, Isaac was loafing nonchntly. The space within was so wide that he could fold his legs within even with his six-foot frame. There was a smile on his lips as he asked, ¡°Satisfied?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Yes.¡± She certainly was, though it was quiet in the car after she finished speaking. Irene was leaning by the car door and staring outside, with a hand on her belly. She thought about many thingsst night ¡ª it would not be wise to give birth to the twins, since she did not even have any idea what their father was like. However, it was a mistake on her part and that man¡¯s. The children were innocent. Though it was a choice for two, it was now up to her alone. As such, she would do what she wanted- which was to give birth to the twins, and raise them on her own. Still, she was so distracted that she did not know they had reached the hospital. Turning to look at her, Isaac asked, ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. The Runaway Groom Chapter 38 The Runaway Groom Chapter 38 Chapter 38 Irene came to her senses then, and quicklyposed herself with a smile. ¡°Nothing.¡± Whitney just happened to arrive since it was work hours, and Irene reached for the door when she saw Whitney. However, Isaac caught her hand and said, ¡°If you want to put up an act, you need to be thorough.¡± Irene stared nkly at him, blinking her clear, crystalline gaze as Isaac leaned toward her. She withdrew by instinct, but Isaac put a hand around her waist and pulled her to him, smiling gorgeously as he said, ¡°We¡¯re married, so we should act like that.¡± Irene gulped, her cheeks turning warm as she met his yful gaze. She was left staring at his thick brows, and suddenly found her eyes as bright as the stars in the night sky. ¡°Kiss me.¡± Both Irene and Stan were speechless, and the air in the car seemed to turn still just then! ¡°Whitney is right there,¡± Isaac prompted Irene then. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to make her jealous?¡± Irene pursed her lips, but steeled herself and reached out to wrap her hands around his neck and put her lips on his. The instant she kissed him, however, Isaac felt a jolting sense of deja vu. The woman that night held him in the same way¡­ Still, before he could savor the taste, Irene quickly pulled away after her lips touched his. ¡°I¡¯m going now.¡± She reached for the door again, and found Whitney standing just in front of the car, clearly having seen what just happened. Her face seemed to be a mix of different colors and utterly grotesque. The sight of her misery, jealousy, and anger makes it all worth it for Irene! Irene kept her head high and walked proudly to the hospital lobby. That was when Isaac wound down the window and shed a gentle smile. ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up after work.¡± Stan turned to stare at him at that instant, while the nurses and doctors who wereing to work all threw Irene looks of envy. After all, Isaac was the most eligible bachelor, having both money and looks! Such gentle, affectionate treatment was undoubtedly the fantasy of everydy! At the same time, Whitney was clenching her knuckles, her veins bulging. However, she had to grit her teeth and bear with it as she strode into the hospital. She could not demand to know anything from Isaac now, because she had no right. Meanwhile, Stan sensed that Isaac seemed to care more about Irene now, and asked, ¡°. Do you like Ms. Spencer?¡± He certainly did not expect-Isaac to go that far¡­ Nheless, Isaac slowly looked up. ¡°What, are you interested?¡± ¡°No¡­ Weren¡¯t you saying that she¡¯s unclean?¡± Stan quickly exined, since the Isaac he knew would never ept such women. Even so, Isaac countered, ¡°I¡¯ve had women before too, haven¡¯t I?¡± Was he saying that they were even? Stan decided to say nothing to that, and drove off. Once Irene was inside the hospital, Whitney shoved her against the wall and snapped,¡± What is this? Are you trying to assert your dominance?!¡± Irene did not fear her however, and retorted, ¡°Just giving an eye for an eye. I had no issues with you, Whitney, but you tried to hurt me anyway!¡± This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. She was staunch, reinforced by the strength of a mother! Whitney did not deny her crime either. ¡°I was just checking if your child belongs to Isaac.¡± Irene¡¯s eyes seemed to turn red then, and pped her across the face! The resulting smack was at once crisp and resounding! ¡°Did you just hit me?!¡± Whitney was left stupefied-she never expected Irene to do that! The Runaway Groom Chapter 39 The Runaway Groom Chapter 39 Chapter 39 Irene had hit Whitney so hard that her palm was numb, and her eyes were filled with fury. ¡°You¡¯re a doctor. You know that an amniocentesis to a mother in early pregnancy will cause a miscarriage. A p is a lot less than what you deserve!¡± She would not be this merciful if anything were to happen to her twins! On the other hand, Whitney had never ever suffered such indignation and humiliation her eyes went red as she snarled, ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± However, she had barely raised her hand when someone caught her wrist, and she turned to find Zachary watching her. ¡°W-What are you doing here?¡± she stammered. Zachary shoved her aside. ¡°Did you think you could do anything you want if I¡¯m not around?¡± ¡°She hit me first!¡± Whitney cried, pointing at Irene. ¡°Can¡¯t you see my face?¡± It turns out that Zachary had seen Irene do it, but he had also heard their entire conversation. ¡°You were trying to hurt her baby, weren¡¯t you?¡± Whitney could not say anything to that, and turned furiously to re at Irene. ¡°Don¡¯t get so full of yourself!¡± Once she left, Irene¡¯s nerves finally eased, but Zachary was staring at her. ¡°What happened to you? How did you get pregnant? Was it Isaac?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Then who¡¯s the father?¡± Zachary¡¯s voice became louder, but he quickly noticed his own agitation and lowered his voice. ¡°You don¡¯t even have a boyfriend-how did you get pregnant?¡± Irene hung her head. ¡°Don¡¯t ask.¡± ¡°How could I not? You¡¯re pregnant without getting married, so are you raising your child alone? Just tell me who it is. Did they dump you? I¡¯ll help you!¡± Zachary eximed. He was actually surprised that Irene was pregnant, because she had always been conversative and preserved her integrity. And yet, here she was, pregnant out of wedlock. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± she said, and despite always finding it hard to talk about that night, she did not keep it from Zachary. ¡°Isaac and I are married in secret, but there¡¯s no love there. My father just wanted a connection to his family, and the Jeffersons could not refuse¨Cmy grandfather had once saved Henry, and my father used that debt as leverage.¡± Zachary was not at all surprised, as he had already sensed that something was unusual when he found out that Irene was acquainted with Isaac. He also knew that Irene¡¯s father had always treated her harshly, but had never imagined that she would be forced to be Isaac¡¯s wife! ¡°Well then, how did you actually get pregnant?¡± Zachary asked. ¡°¡­¡± It was once again something hard for Irene to talk about. ¡°Were you raped?¡± Zachary realized that he was out of line after asking, and quickly exined, ¡°Wait, I don¡¯t mean¡­¡± ¡°No.¡± Irene, however, was not upset. Despite the harshness of it, she could not deny that she had made a mistake. However, she had definitely not been coerced. ¡°It was consensual, but I don¡¯t know who it was.¡± Zachary felt his cheeks twitching. ¡°Do you really think Isaac would let you live if he finds out? His wife, pregnant with someone else¡¯s child? You know his ego-he¡¯s going to smother you!¡± Irene suddenly realized that she had never considered that problem, but she had only just found out that she was pregnant herself! ¡°Please keep this a secret for me. I don¡¯t mind a divorce, but not before my mother has fully recovered. At least let her get better before she finds out, and I¡¯ll leave this city after the divorce.¡± With the money Lionel had given her, she could sustain a living, and she still had a job. ¡°Just get an abortion,¡± Zachary reasoned, feeling a terrible sense of disappointment just then. ¡°Why give birth to a child whose father you don¡¯t know? You¡¯re not making sense!¡± Irene simply shed a bitter smile. ¡°It¡¯s my child.¡± How could she bear to cut down her own flesh, growing inside her own body? Looking up to meet Zachary¡¯s gaze, she said, ¡°I¡¯m feeling a little sick. I want to check if my children are sine.¡± N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. ¡°I¡¯ll make the arrangements,¡± Zachary replied-though he did not agree to her keeping her children, he did not want to see her suffer either. Be that as it may, Whitney stepped out from the shadows after they left the room, her eyes twinkling, ¡°So that¡¯s what happened!¡± In reality, she never left the room, and simply hid herself. Now she understood that there was no love at all between Irene and Isaac. Also, Irene did not even know that her children were Isaac¡¯s after he got her pregnant that night. Isaac did not even know that Irene was the woman from that night either, even though they were married! ¡°Hahaha!!!¡± Sheughed out loud. ¡°I still have a chance!¡± After leaving work in the evening, she headed to the Light Group headquarters and intercepted Isaac! The Runaway Groom Chapter 40 The Runaway Groom Chapter 40 Chapter 40 ¡°I want to talk to you,¡± Whitney told Isaac. She was brimming with confidence, because she knew that she would inevitablye up on top! Isaac gave her a cold look, but asked, ¡°Need more money? How much is it this time?¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s not about money. I¡¯m pregnant with your child,¡± Whitney said, and took out an ultrasound sonogram-which she got after she performed the amniocentesis on Irene. Naturally, she wrote down her own name instead of Irene¡¯s. In the end, she did not want to test if the child was Isaac¡¯s with the amniocentesis-she needed evidence to trick Isaac! Isaac, however, did not take the sonogram. He simply nced at it, and while he saw that the date was a match, he was not about to believe Whitney so easily! ¡°I know you won¡¯t believe me,¡± Whitney said then, and took out the cell samples she had extracted from the amniocentesis, which she had kept frozen and well-preserved. She was certainly well-prepared. ¡°These are cell samples from the amniocentesis I took. You can test them all you want.¡± Isaac finally reacted then. There was no joy, however, as he stared at Whitney searchingly. ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re suddenly so cold to me, but I¡¯d never lie to you!¡± she dered with much conviction, and no one could have exposed her lies just then. While Stan walked up and took all the evidence, Whitney said solemnly, ¡°I¡¯ll have these children even if you don¡¯t want them.¡± Her words were chosen carefully, because she was convinced Isaac would never abandon his own children! After she was gone, Stan asked, ¡°Is this believable?¡± This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org. Isaac remained cold, but decided to check whether duplicity was involved. ¡°Call Zachary te.¡± ¡°Understood,¡± Stan replied, and an hourter, they were both at the hospital, since the necessary equipment was there. Isaac was sitting at the lounge, enveloped in darkness while Stan stood outside. After half an hour of waiting, Zachary stepped out of theb with the results. ¡°Whose samples are these?¡± he asked Stan. ¡°Whitney Cox¡¯s,¡± Stan replied. ¡°She did it with Isaac?¡± Zachary asked. Despite knowing that Isaac was apletely different person from Whitney, hecked critical information. Stan nodded then, which left him speechless. ¡°Fine.¡± He passed everything to Stan. ¡°Guess we¡¯ll have to congratte him.¡± Stan scanned through the results, and could not help swearing. ¡°Shit!¡± ¡°What do you think Isaac will be upset?¡± Zachary asked, confused by his reaction. Stan quickly whispered, ¡°Actually, I think he has feelings for Irene Spencer. What is he supposed to do now that Whitney is pregnant?¡± Aware that Irene was pregnant with someone else¡¯s child, Zachary simply said, ¡°What else can he do? Just get a divorce.¡± He wanted dearly to add ¡®right now¡¯ at the end of his sentence, so that Isaac would never find out that Irene had cheated on him. Still, now that he thought about it, he had cheated on her too-did that not mean they were even? Nheless, Stan gave Zachary a look and thought to himself, ¡®Easy for you to say!¡¯ He entered the lounge with the results. The room was still pitch-ck and unlit, but he slowly made his way toward Isaac and quietly said, ¡°We have the results.¡± However, Isaac had overheard their conversation outside, and simply said, ¡°I know.¡± Stan was about to ask what they were going to do when Isaac rose to his feet and strode out of the lounge. Gingerly holding on to the reports, Stan followed him. Soon, Zachary caught up as well and said, ¡°There¡¯s no way you¡¯d abandon your own children, right? Just divorce Irene.¡± Isaac wheeled on him with a sharp look. ¡°Are you telling me what to do?¡± Zachary promptly turned silent. Throughout the journey home, Stan did not dare to say a word. The Runaway Groom Chapter 41 The Runaway Groom Chapter 41 Chapter 41 The atmosphere in the car was suffocating! Once they returned to the mansion, Isaac headed upstairs and asked casually, ¡°Is she asleep?¡± Mrs. Watson answered softly, ¡°Mrs. Jefferson hasn¡¯t returned yet.¡± Isaac stopped in his tracks and checked his watch. It was already 9 PM, long past her work hours-where could she have gone? Original from N?velDrama.Org. There really was not a dull moment with her, and it always got him unnerved! He abruptly turned and stormed out of the mansion angrily! Meanwhile, Irene had actually been taken elsewhere by her taxi driver when she left work. It was only when they arrived that she realized Harvey Gooding had paid off the driver ¨C she had been abducted to Harvey¡¯s personal residence! There, he had his men tie Irene up and throw her unceremoniously on bed. Sitting on a chair beside the bed while twirling a ss of red wine, he watched admiringly as Irene struggled against her restraints. ¡°Let¡¯s see how you¡¯re going to run this time.¡± He grinned. Irene red at him. ¡°Kidnapping is a crime!¡± ¡°I know, but you actually forgot another crime.¡± Harveyughed smugly, and continued without waiting for a response from her. ¡°Like, I don¡¯t know¡­ sexual assault? Irene actually slinched in fear, and it was the first time Harvey saw her being afraid. Arching his back to lean toward her, he said, ¡°So you can actually feel fear. I thought you sear nothing.¡± ¡°Anyone would be afraid of someone like you, wouldn¡¯t they?¡± Irene red at him warily, worried that he would do something else. Harvey could see what she was thinking, and chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re nothing but meat served on a silver tter now. I can do anything to you-get it? Fool me twice, shame on me! So don¡¯t think I¡¯ll let you escape from me for a third time!¡± Putting down his ss of wine, he rose from his chair and took off his casual jacket. He was on the tall side and appeared rather slim, but he did not look delicate at all. He had been wearing a T-shirt underneath, and Irene became flustered as he started to Take it off as well, but she forced herself to stay calm. ¡°Isaac and I are together. Just let me go.¡± She had no choice but to use Isaac¡¯s influence. However, Harvey simply pursed his lips. ¡°I knew it. Isaac was interested in you! To think that he¡¯d lie to me that he would never like women like you.¡± Irene did a double take. Isaac did not like women like her? She felt disappointment for some reason, but that onlysted a split second. It was only natural, since women like her had nothing going for them. ¡°Oh, and I¡¯ll let you go, but not now.¡± Harveyughed then. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter how many times you say Isaac¡¯s name, he was the one who gave you to me when we first met. Right now, I¡¯?n just taking what I¡¯m owed, so I¡¯m not worried if thises for me.¡± Irene bit her lip in despair. How could she have forgotten that Harvey started to stalk her because of Isaac? Also, she should not be moving too much-after thetest checkup today, she was showing signs of miscarriage and needed proper rest to avoid that. Since throwing out Isaac¡¯s name was hopeless, she needed to think of something else. Forcing herself to stay calm, she said, ¡°I get it-there¡¯s no escape for me now. I surrender¡­ But can¡¯t you untie me already?¡± ¡°Nope.¡± Harvey refused right then-there was no chance, because she was too cunning, Nheless, Irene pressed on, asking, ¡°Do you really think it¡¯s fun to have me while I¡¯m tied up?¡± Harvey raised a brow. ¡°What, are you going to y along if I untie you?¡± ¡°Yes, only if you untie me.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°You¡¯re not that ugly anyway, and I¡¯m no maiden.¡± Harvey frowned. ¡°What¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯ve been with men before,¡± she said, intent on making him feel contempt toward her. And yet, Harvey had clearly learned his lesson and remained unconcerned. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t care.¡± Irene was speechless, even as he leaned toward her and reached out to unbutton her blouse! Irene was trembling all over. ¡°Wait¡­¡± ¡°What are you scared?¡± Harveyughed. Irene shook her head. ¡°Actually, no-I just happened to have some party drugs in my bag. If we¡¯re doing it anyway, why don¡¯t we make things more exciting?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 42 The Runaway Groom Chapter 42 Chapter 42 Harvey actually paused this time. It would make sense if Irenie kept resisting, although the fact that she was ying along and trying to make things more exciting was actually surprising. ¡°For real?¡± he asked, half-suspicious. ¡°You¡¯ve tied me up like this. What else can I do?¡± Irene did her best to appear rxed, even eager. Harvey stared at her for a few seconds, but curiosity eventually got the better of him and he picked up her handbag. There really were pills in there, and Harvey held it up to find thebel ¡®Viagra.¡¯ Irene grinned. ¡°I wasn¡¯t lying.¡± However, Harvey frowned. ¡°Why would you carry that around with you?¡± After all, Irene gave the impression of being a virtuous maiden¡­ But perhaps she really had another side to her personality¡­ A more indulgent side! ¡°What, did you think that I¡¯m Joan of Arc? I was just ying hard to get with you¡­ What are you waiting for? Take the pill already, and let¡¯s get started!¡± Irene¡¯s lips curled into a smile, which only magnified her beauty. Harvey held her gaze for a while, his juices flowing. He took one, when Irene said, ¡°How about another?¡± ¡°You¡¯re wild, aren¡¯t you?¡± Harvey smiled mischievously, and did as he was told anyway, washing the pills down with wine. There was a cold glint in Irene¡¯s eyes just then, but she kept smiling as she watched Harvey, while counting down in her mind. ¡°Hold on, this is a little strong. I¡¯m actually feeling faint¡­¡± Harvey said, nting himself on the bed even his whole body felt like it was turning soft. Soon, he realized that something was not right. He should be feeling stronger and spirited if he took an aphrodisiac, whereas these pills left him feeling like he had turned to jelly! ¡°This isn¡¯t an aphrodisiac!¡± he eximed with a furious re at Irene. ¡°What were those pills?!¡± ¡°What was it you said?¡± Irene replied icily. ¡°Fool me twice? But you just got tricked again.¡± Harvey wanted nothing less than to cut her into pieces and feed her to the dogs right then! ¡°I will remember this-¡± he growled, but fainted even before he could finish. Irene made sure that he was out before reaching for her bag to get her phone. The pills were actually sedatives that she had prepared for that social call with Mark Wickers, Worried that Mark¡¯s potential investors would go too far, she prepared those pills while keeping them in Viagra packaging. It was a feint, and anyone who saw it was unlikely to think that it was sedatives. Later, it turned out that Mark¡¯s potential investor was Isaac, so the pills stayed unused. It was certainly fortunate that she had kept it in her bag, or she might not have been safe this time. Having retrieved her phone, she quickly called Zachary, but that was when she heard a ruckus outside the door. There were multiple footsteps, the crash of objects smashed into pieces, and screams of pain, just before the door was kicked open! She looked up, and found herself staring at Isaac¡¯s wrathful visage. The air around him seemed to turn cold as he stood beneath the lights, which magnified his shadow and menacing presence. Still, Irene was delighted to see him just then, as if she had managed to reach thest straw that promised salvation. ¡°Why are you here?¡± Isaac said nothing as he strode toward her and untied her. In reality, he presumed that she must be having a tryst with other men since he did not go home, but after a quick search, he found out that Harvey had abducted her. Naturally, he had to pull many strings to reach this ce, but his only concern was that he was toote, and Harvey somehow managed to get what he wanted. Still, he soon found the pill box on the table and thebel on it, which left his expression turning darker. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. ¡°It¡¯s a sedative,¡± Irene quickly exined to avoid a misunderstanding. ¡°That¡¯s what knocked him out.¡± ¡°You did this?¡± Isaac asked. Irene nodded, and he lifted a brow¨Cjust stopping short of telling her ¡®good job.¡¯ He had a different opinion of her now¡­ She had actually managed to knock out an assant while being tied up, but that was a doctor for you. They had no shortage of Tricks! He checked her thoroughly then, and while her clothes were tidy and did not appear to have been assaulted at all, he remained utterly furious, He barked at Stan and his men to tie up Harvey, and they quickly did so. At the same time, he asked Irene, ¡°Do you want to watch, or wait outside?¡± Irene could tell what he was going to do to Harvey, but decided that he was not interested in the scene of violence. ¡°I¡¯m going out,¡± she said, and turned to leave. However, she was walking very slowly and keeping a hand over her belly-which had been hurting a little. The Runaway Groom Chapter 43 The Runaway Groom Chapter 43 Chapter 43 Being a doctor herself, Irene knew the signs of a miscarriage. Her face turned pale, and Isaac noticed that something was wrong with her. ¡°Are you hurt?¡± he asked. Irene worked hard to make herself look strong while shaking her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡± However, the instant she stepped out of the room, her face contorted in pain. Whitney would have hell to pay if her twins could not be saved! She trudged along through the living room area, and noticed that there were many menying around, unconscious. She recognized them as Harvey¡¯s bodyguards, but remained indifferent as she got out of the house and reached the car¨Cscreams echoed from the mansion just as she was just about to close the door. It was Harvey, and each scream was more horrific than thest. What could Isaac be doing? Still, Irene did not have the time to think. She quicklyy down to rest, afraid of moving too much! Meanwhile, Harvey¡¯s screamsted for an hour before Isaac finally stepped out and entered the driver¡¯s seat-Stan was still in the mansion. Irene thought to herself then that she simply could not tell what Isaac was thinking. He gave her off to Harvey in the first ce, did he not? Why was he upset now? Hesitating for a while, curiosity got the better of her and she asked, ¡°Why are you upset?¡± Isaac felt his heart clenching. After all, he almost lost his mind when he found out that Harvey took her away, and was so afraid that something would happen to her! His fear and anxiety right then almost overwhelmed him! Be that as it may, he would never say-no, he would never allow him to say something like ¡®I was worried about you.¡¯ Instead, he said, ¡°Even if you¡¯re my wife only in name, you¡¯re still my wise. Like I said, it disgusts me if someone defiles you.¡± Irene pursed her lips in self-deprecation. For some reason, she thought for a moment that Isaac was upset because he liked her. In the end, she was imagining things-why would he be interested in her? Exhausted, she closed her eyes to rest, and dozed off without knowing. When she woke up, she was already on her own bed. Pushing herself up, she found no one else in the room. Rubbing her temples, she remembered that she was in Isaac¡¯s carst night¡­ How did she end up here? ¡°Mrs. Jefferson?¡± a voice called out, and a knock on the door could be heard. ¡°Come in,¡± Irene replied. Mrs. Watson entered with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ve prepared breakfast. Come on, it¡¯s time to eat.¡± Irene pulled off her nket and asked casually, ¡°How did I get upstairs?¡± ¡°Mr. Jefferson carried you, of course,¡± Mrs. Watson replied with a twinkle in her eye.¡± Have you made peace with him?¡± Irene blinked. Had there ever been peace between them? ¡°Well, it seems to me that you two are getting along well,¡± Mrs. Watson continued, smiling, ¡°It¡¯s rare for Mr. Jefferson to be this patient with anyone, too. You must be the first!¡± Irene thought nothing of it, however ¡ª Isaac might have finally found a bit of kindness when he found out that Harvey was going to have his way with her. ¡°Ah, I¡¯m hungry.¡± After a long night of deep sleep, her belly no longer hurt that much, which relieved her considerably. She needed proper meals and rest. After washing up, she dressed up and headed downstairs, taking a seat as Mrs. Watson put food on the table. She was alone-Isaac was not around. Original from N?velDrama.Org. Halfway through breakfast, she got a call from the hospital that her mother was asking to be discharged, and so, she quickly finished it so that she could leave. Nheless, she had just stepped out of the mansion when Isaac¡¯s chauffeur approached her, saying, ¡°Are you leaving, Mrs. Jefferson? Let me drive you there.¡± Before Irene could say a word, he added, ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡¯s orders.¡± Irene nced behind to find that the chauffeur had taken out a Rolls-Royce, and raised a brow. Had that man gotten addicted to their act? Still, she got in since she did not have the time to think. ¡°Charity Hospital, please.¡± She rushed to her mother¡¯s ward, but just as she was about to enter, she heard Samantha White¡¯s voice from within. ¡°The son I had with Lionel is already an adult. Why aren¡¯t you asking a divorce? What purpose is there in preserving a dead marriage? Do you really think he still cares about you?¡± Laughing derisively then, Samantha continued. ¡°Did you really think that he forced your daughter to marry Isaac just because hispany was in trouble?¡± Standing outside, Irene was taken aback-was that not the case?! The Runaway Groom Chapter 44 The Runaway Groom Chapter 44 Chapter 44 ¡°Sheryl Harris ¨C you¡¯re a real idiot, you know that? It¡¯s tragic how you can¡¯t tell what your own husband wants!¡± Samantha was folding her arms before her chest and gloating. ¡°All Lionel wanted was for your daughter to be family with the Jeffersons, so that she bes a puppet for his own ends. That¡¯s the only reason he¡¯s not divorcing you! Are you really stupid enough to think that he still gives a damn about you? If that¡¯s true, why would he have me at his side for twenty years, or let your daughter marry into the Jefferson family?¡± ¡°Sure, the Jeffersons are a genuine dynasty, but Isaac Jefferson is also infamous for his bad temper. Did you think your daughter would not suffer, as a woman he was forced to marry? If you¡¯re smart, divorce Lionel right now, and your daughter just might stop suffering.¡± ¡°Y-You¡¯re lying!¡± Sheryl snapped, but shecked the strength and therefore the authority! Outside, Irene wobbled. Her father had put her through many lessons, such as piano, dance, and art. At first, she believed that Lionel wanted her to be a star. Now, however, it was clear that he had nned for her to have such skills to entice Isaac. Her father was truly cunning, to scheme against her own daughter and use her like a tool! She should have been jaded after all these years, but her heart still hurt now. Inside, Samantha was still gloating. ¡°Just get a divorce if you know what¡¯s good for you. Irene abruptly opened the door, havingposed herself as she snapped, ¡°Tell Lionel Spencer to come here himself if he wants a divorce.¡± She caught Samantha by surprise, and Samantha¡¯s face paled as she turned to find Irene standing there. ¡°W-Why are you here?!¡± Irene entered, saying, ¡°You¡¯re the one who shouldn¡¯t be here.¡± Samantha quickly gathered hersell, and it was easy since it was Irene who heard what she said, and not Lionel. It was line if she found out¡­ ideal, even, just so she could persuade her mother to get a divorce. After all, Samantha did not want to stay a mistress for life. She was not young-she needed a legitimitate title ¡°You heard all that, did you? I¡¯m sure you know in your heart that what I said was true. If you want to be free of your father, get your mother to divorce him already.¡± Irene glowered. ¡°You¡¯re not wee here. Leave!¡± ¡°I¡¯m doing this for your own good, Irene¡­¡± ¡°Stay liere a moment longer, and I¡¯ll call Lionel and tell him what you told my mother. It is as you say: if my mother does agree to a divorce, I¡¯ll be free from him, but it also means he won¡¯t get anything from the Jeffersons anymore. Do you think he cares more about you or his money?¡±. In the end, Irene knew very well that Lionel only ever cared about his own gains, or he would not have stayed married to her mother. In fact, he would have long since married Samantha if he really loved her. ¡°Also, you think I¡¯m being used, but I could say the same about you. He wanted a son and you gave him one, but he didn¡¯t give you anything in return-doesn¡¯t that make you a baby-making tool? What is there for you to gloat about to my mother?¡± Now, Irene understood that Lionel had no love for anything except power and position. To him, everyone else was just a tool. Meanwhile, Samantha¡¯s expression had been alternating until it turned dark, her face contorting so horribly that even her heavy makeup could not hide it. ¡°You little¡­¡± Samantha pointed at her furiously, but could not say anything against her at all! With that, Irene simply ignored her. ¡°I¡¯ll count to three. Leave now, or I¡¯ll call Lionel!¡± In the first ce, Samantha had wanted to manipte Sheryl into filing for a divorce by revealing Lionel¡¯s schemes, while she became his legitimate wife. Naturally, she did not expect that Irene would turn the tables on her, leaving her absolutely frustrated! Snorting coldly, she left the ward. ¡°Mom¡­¡± Irene began after she closed the door behind her. Sheryl¡¯s eyes were red as she stared at Irene. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± Irene went to sit beside her. ¡°You¡¯ve done nothing wrong, Mom. You gave me life and brought me to this world¡­¡± Original from N?velDrama.Org. Even so, Sheryl was choking with misery as she grasped her daughter¡¯s hand. Pursing her lips, she sobbed, ¡°But you¡¯ve suffered so much because of me¡­ I should have known. ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Irene assured her. ¡°I¡¯m going to get married eventually, and it¡¯s the same whoever it is.¡± Still, Sheryl could not let it go. ¡°But he¡¯s your father¡­ How could he use you like this? Doesn¡¯t he feel any affection at all?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 45 The Runaway Groom Chapter 45 Chapter 45 Over the years, Irene often found heartache, but she had also learned to let go. Changing the subject, she asked, ¡°Weren¡¯t you asking to be discharged, Mom?¡± Sheryl nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m much better now-I¡¯?n ready to leave after such a long stay.¡± Irene did not agree to it, however, and instead spoke to her attending physician. He told her that while Sheryl could be discharged, she should ensure that she had sufficient rest and keep to her checkup schedules. Still, Irene did not tell Sheryl that, but instead said, ¡°You should wait a couple days, Mom.¡± After all, Sheryl needed a ce to live after she was discharged. After Sheryl nodded in agreement, Irene hesitated for a moment before asking her opinion, ¡°Mom, do you want to divorce Lionel?¡± ¡°I will,¡± Sheryl replied. Irene pursed her lips. She had wanted her mother to divorce Lionel for years, but it never happened. Moreover, Sheryl was saying she would divorce Lionel ¨C and not that she wanted to. And Irene respected her decision. After living with that man for the most of her life, she would certainly hold strong sentiments for him. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about me, Mom. I¡¯m an adult with a job-I can earn my own living. Lionel can¡¯t coerce me with money like he did before, cutting me off and abusing you when I didn¡¯t obey him. He may have used you as leverage against me before, but he no longer has a hold on me¡­ So, if you don¡¯t want to divorce him, you don¡¯t have to.¡± Sheryl felt even more guilty because of her daughter¡¯s understanding and maturity, and felt that she owed Irene a lot just then. ¡°I want a divorce,¡± she said then. ¡°We¡¯ve merely been married in name only for years. There¡¯s no need to keep this up.¡± She meant it, so Irene replied, ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll go with you to see him after you¡¯re discharged. Sheryl nodded. ¡°I¡¯m going now ¨C I still have work. I¡¯ll visit again after I leave work.¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Sheryl smiled at her. ¡°You don¡¯t have to visit. Juste get me when I¡¯m discharged.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said softly, and left the hospital. Isaac¡¯s chauffeur was waiting with the Rolls-Royce, and she got in, saying, ¡°Central Hospital, please.¡± They quickly reached the hospital, and as Irene alighted, Whitney just happened to arrive as well. She had just received a call from Isaac asking to meet, and ran into Irene in the corridor. Whitney knew that Isaac must have tested the samples she gave him. That was why he would ask to meet her-he believed that she was pregnant with his child. That was why she went out of her way to pull herself up more than usual. ¡°Irene Spencer,¡± she called out as the other woman tried to leave. Irene glowered. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°Isaac just asked to see me. Want to guess why?¡± Whitney smiled, rearing her head proudly. ¡°You may be married to him, but he¡¯ll divorce you soon.¡± Irene doubted that, however. ¡°He doesn¡¯t have any feelings for you at all. You really don¡¯t have to pretend for my sake.¡± Feeling like she had punched out only to hit air, Whitney shot her a vicious re. ¡°Just you wait!¡± she snarled confidently. ¡°I¡¯ll make you disappear!¡± ¡°I will,¡± Irene replied fearlessly, while Whitney snorted and stormed off, her high heels clicking in her wake. However, just as Irene was about to change, Zachary caught her wrist and started to pull her elsewhere. ¡°What are you doing?¡± she asked in surprise, and tried to struggle a little since she was not supposed to move too quickly. Soon, they arrived at a quiet spot, and he gave her a serious look. ¡°You have to divorce Isaac soon- Whitney is pregnant.¡± Irene¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°Whitney is pregnant with his child?!¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org. The Runaway Groom Chapter 46 The Runaway Groom Chapter 46 Chapter 46 Zachary nodded. Irene stiffened as if she had a bucket of ice water sshed on her, dousing her from head to toe. Isaac himself told her that he did not like Whitney, but if that really was the case, why would she be pregnant? Noticing the terrible look on her face, Zachary asked in concern, ¡°Are you alright, Irene?¡± Irene came to her senses and quickly shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± She felt a sense of loss to hear that Whitney was pregnant, but she was soon relieved. It did not matter to her who Isaac loved, just as she had no reason to get upset about that. ¡°No, you¡¯re not,¡± Zachary said suspiciously, because she was almost overreacting. ¡°Did you fall for Isaac?¡± Irene looked up and met Zachary¡¯s gaze. ¡°Did I?¡± He nodded. ¡°Yes, you did.¡± ¡°Actually, I¡¯m reacting like this because I¡¯m worried, not because of him,¡± she said, walking over to sit on a bench. ¡°I know my ce- I won¡¯t think of him that way.¡± At the same time, she stroked her belly. Surely there were not many men willing to take the bullet and raise them as his own? Original from N?velDrama.Org. And given Isaac¡¯s ego, why would he be interested in a woman like her? In the end, she knew her ce. ¡°What are you worried about?¡± Zachary asked then. ¡°Whitney knows that I¡¯m Isaac¡¯s wife, and she¡¯s so hostile she wants to harass me however she can. Now that she has Isaac¡¯s child, she can bank on his influence to destroy me. It¡¯s not hard to imagine how hard life would be at this point forward.¡± She was barely finished when Zachary snapped impatiently, ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m telling you to divorce him. That way, Whitney won¡¯t be able to harass you, not to mention that you¡¯re already pregnant.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Irene thought that she should visit Jefferson Manor after she got off work in the evening Henry would definitely be very happy to learn that Isaac had a child, and she could easily get a divorce. ¡°Get back to work, handsome,¡± she said then, rising to her feet. ¡°I should be checking in.¡± Zachary had more to say, but stopped himself when he saw that she did not want to talk about it any further. Outside the hospital, Whitney got into Isaac¡¯s car, her red lips parting lightly in a smile. ¡°So? Have you done the tests, Isaac?¡± Though she was addressing him by name instead of ¡®Mr. Jefferson,¡¯ Isaac was lounging hisrge frame on his seat. Then, he slowly opened his eyes and stared at her. While Whitney maintained a polite smile, her fingers were curled to hide the sweat on her palm. Isaac was being too calm, so she could not get a read on him. But he was not shouting¡­ Did that mean he epted her now? The thought relieved her considerably. ¡°So, do you want my child?¡± ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re pregnant?¡± Isaac asked, ncing at her stilettos then. Whitney looked down as well, and realized that she had been so preupied with prettying up that she had forgotten to feign pregnancy. She quickly exined, ¡°Heels are fine during early pregnancy.¡± Nheless, Isaac¡¯s expression turned dark. Although he refrained frommenting, he told Stan, ¡°Drive.¡± ¡°Where are we going?¡± Whitney asked. Isaac¡¯s calmness left her unconfident, and she was starting to panic. Even so, she asked gingerly again, ¡°Do you want my child?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 47 The Runaway Groom Chapter 47 Chapter 47 Isaac stared at Whitney in silence, and she gradually felt the creeps.¡¯ Guilt was gnawing on her. After all, she had never been pregnant! Nheless, he said slowly after a while, ¡°If there really is a child in your belly, I want Whitney was jubnt. She would beughing out loud if she was not sitting in front of Isaac, but there was no hiding the joy and excitement on her face. Amidst all the thrill, she asked, ¡°Then, are you going to marry me?¡± Isaac¡¯s answer was short and t-one might even say cold. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. ¡°No.¡± Those words left Whitney¡¯s smile stiffening. ¡°What? Why?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a simple issue. I just want the child,¡± Isaac said tly with thest ounce of his patience. Whitney started to lose herposure right then. ¡°Well, where are you taking me?¡± ¡°To the hospital,¡± Stan answered from the driver¡¯s seat, and turned to nce at her for a moment. ¡°You¡¯ll give birth to that child, but you won¡¯t be the mother.¡± This time, Whitney was scared witless. ¡°W-Why the hospital?¡± ¡°For a checkup, of course,¡± Stan replied. Whitney turned pale from terror. Her idea was for Isaac to do a DNA test of the cell samples she had given him to convince him that she was pregnant with his child. From there, he would take responsibility by divorcing Irene and marrying her. And after they got married, she could just stage a scenario where she had a miscarriage. By that point, she would already be Isaac¡¯s legitimate wife, and it would not be difficult for her to actually get pregnant with his child. But what was she supposed to do if he was checking her now? There would be no child in her belly! ¡°Isaac¡­¡± ¡°Do not call me that.¡± Isaac cut her short coldly, and he was certainly able to see her panicking. Even without the DNA test, he knew that if there was anyone pregnant with her child, it would be Whitney- she was the only woman he had. By logic, he had no reason to doubt her¡­ But he doubted her regardless! He simply could not believe that this woman was pregnant with his child! Therefore, he would consult a doctor he trusted and personally oversee the process to believe what she had said. And judging from her reaction right now, there really was something fishy going on. On the other hand, Whitney was so nervous that she was looking everywhere except at Isaac. Still, she tried to force an excuse, ¡°I can¡¯t¡­ I have work to do.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not up to you,¡± Isaac said, leaning further back into his seat, folding his legs as his expression turned colder. ¡°And your reaction makes me wonder if you¡¯re lying.¡± If she really was up to deceit, she could not me him for being merciless! Whitney almost fainted right then. Right now, she wanted the car to crash so much¡­ and lose her ¡®child¡¯ right then! Amid her unease and desperation to find an escape, she noticed a sticky sensation between her legs. Someone up there might still be watching out for her-her period had just arrived! Clutching her belly, she groaned. ¡°My stomach hurts¡­¡± At the same time, she acted as if she was going through a miscarriage, allowing blood to flow down her legs. Isaac frowned-could she really be pregnant? Could he have pressured her too much? Although he hated her, he was not cruel enough to give up on his own child either. ¡°Drive faster, Stan,¡± he growled. Just as Stan floored the gas pedal, however, a white SUV streaked toward them at top speed from the opposite road, its engine thundering in its wake as it bounded through the crossroads ahead! Stan was petrified, but he did not even have the time to dodge. There was a dull crash, and what was left of the car was barely recognizable. The white SUV was knocked backward, skidding over sixty feet away. Isaac¡¯s car did not fare any better-the car was totaled, though the airbags deployed at the instant of the collision. Stan was out unconscious and bleeding freely from the head. Isaac felt like his head was splitting, but managed to spot the person in the white SUV before fainting The Runaway Groom Chapter 48 The Runaway Groom Chapter 48 Chapter 48 When Isaac woke up, his nostrils were stung by the pungent scent of medicine. As he slowly sat up, his secretary came by to help. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Isaac waved her off. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± he said, taking a moment topose herself before asking, ¡°How¡¯s Stan?¡± ¡°He¡¯s unconscious, but the doctor already operated on him, so his life isn¡¯t in danger,¡± the secretary replied. ¡°The doctor has also advised you to rest since you had a minor concussion. Why don¡¯t you rest a little?¡± Isaac remembered the blood on Whitney¡¯s legs just then. Pursing his lips in silence for a while, he eventually ended up asking, ¡°How¡¯s Whitney Cox?¡± ¡°The doctor said that she had a miscarriage. She¡¯s fine otherwise apart from minorcerations. She woke up when I arrived-she¡¯s in the next ward.¡± Then, hesitating for a moment, the secretary asked, ¡°Should I call for her?¡± Isaac raised a hand to stop her. He was feeling mixed emotions just then-despite his disgust toward Whitney, and his reluctance to let her be the mother of her child, he had never thought about giving up on his child. Now, however, the child was gone, and he naturally felt a little sad as a father. He must at least do something to get even, or he would have to live aggrieved. N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content. ¡°Are the cops involved?¡± he asked. ¡°They are,¡± his secretary replied. ¡°They haven¡¯t found out who the driver was.¡± Isaac remembered that it was a young man who was rtively unscathed. He clearly saw him climbing out of his car before running away, and he was most likely afraid, possibly because he should not be driving, ¡°Start a search, and reach the culprit before the cops do,¡± he growled. ¡°No killing, but make sure it¡¯s a lesson to be remembered. Also, summon the doctor who operated on Whitney Cox. I want to meet them.¡± When he saw Whitney bleeding, he was basically convinced that she was pregnant with his child And yet, her behavior just before that was exceedingly suspicious. That was why he wanted the absolute truth, for he would never allow anyone to mess with him on this matter! ¡°Understood, sir,¡± the secretary replied. Isaac closed his eyes. ¡°Go.¡± After the secretary closed the door behind her, Isaac kept sitting on the bed for a while, feeling mysteriously relieved that he did not have to maintain a messy rtionship with Whitney because of their child. Lying down, he closed his eyes to rest. Irene left the hospital early. Her instructor for the day was taking part in an academic conference and left earlier than she did, while giving her permission to end the day early. She was going to get a taxi after stepping out of the hospital when she spotted Isaac¡¯s chauffeur driving up to her. ¡°You never left?¡± she eximed in surprise. ¡°Mr. Jefferson told me to drive you to and from work,¡± the chauffeur replied as he opened the door for her. ¡°I will be around from now on.¡± Irene pursed her lips, unsure what Isaac was up to. Why mess around with other women when Whitney was pregnant with his child? Still, she got in and thanked the chauffeur. After he closed the door for her and jogged to the driver¡¯s seat, he asked, ¡°Are we heading home, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± Irene hung her head when he said ¡®home.¡¯ Was that mansion really her home? Shaking her head, she said, ¡°Take me to Jefferson Manor.¡± ¡°Of course, Mrs. Jefferson.¡± They arrived at Jefferson Manor after twenty minutes, but Henry Jefferson was not home, and his butler Moneypenny had left with him. Irene hade to tell Henry about Whitney¡¯s pregnancy. She was sure that if the old man knew that Isaac was a father now and had a woman he loved, she would be freed from their agreement. That way, she was not breaking a promise. Still, Henry was not around, and she had to go home instead. Halfway through her journey, however, she asked the chauffeur to stop. ¡°We¡¯re not that far from the mansion now,¡± she said. ¡°Go on ahead-I wanted to take a stroll alone.¡± ¡°But¡­¡± ¡°But what?¡± Irene asked. ¡°But Mr. Jefferson insisted that I drive you anywhere we go,¡± the chauffeur replied.¡± And we¡¯re not home yet.¡± Irene chuckled. ¡°You don¡¯t have to go that far.¡± Soon, the chauffeur stopped, and she alighted. Alone, she strolled along the road. There were not many cars, since the area around the mansion district had always been quiet. At the same time, she was stroking her own belly. She had certainly taken Zachary¡¯s advice very seriously-she was still in her early pregnancy and could therefore keep it a secret, but she could not do the same in a few months. The smart choice to do here was to divorce Isaac as soon as possible, since he had both a lover and a child now. The Runaway Groom Chapter 49 The Runaway Groom Chapter 49 Chapter 49 Irene decided that she would be out online if she kept her ce as Mrs. Jefferson. Nearby, the leaves on a tree were rustling from the touch of a slightly chill breeze. It was the early days of autumn, and the sun was much milder. Tightening her clothes, she hurried along, having nned to cook dinner for Isaac tonight before asking for a divorce. That was when a car suddenly screeched to a halt, blocking her path while several men quickly alighted. Without saying a word, one of them pulled a ck sack over her head while another sped a hand over her mouth, dragging her into the car before speeding off. ¡°Oof-¡± Irene was immobile andpletely under their control. There was no telling how long had passed when she was finally dragged out of the car. Although the ck sack still kept her blind, no one was keeping her from talking. ¡°Who are you people? Why did you kidnap me?¡± ¡°CLOUD B, 778VQ- that¡¯s your car, isn¡¯t it?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Irene replied. Her mother had spent all her savings to buy her that SUV when she got a job, saying that it was to make going to work convenient. She had always been driving it as well, but left it at Spencer Mansion ever since she married Isaac. ¡°What¡¯s the-¡± Before she could finish her question, however, one of the men kicked her viciously, and she curled into herself while trembling in pain. ¡°What are you¡­ Argh!¡± In no time at all, she was being hit in the back, her feet, and her hip. She was being clobbered, and she arched her back to shield her belly even as she groaned in pain! ¡°Who are you people¡­?¡± She was trembling and sweating bullets, barely having the strength to speak. ¡°Why are you doing this¡­?¡± ¡°It¡¯s your own fault for not keeping your eyes on the road and for running away after that car crash.¡± Irene was dumbstruck. ¡°I haven¡¯t driven that car in two months¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t lie. We¡¯ve checked-that SUV was registered under your name.¡± A foot thenunched toward her belly twice. Irene tried her best to shield her stomach, but she did not manage to protect her child. She could feel the dull pain in her belly already. ¡°Don¡¯t you know who you¡¯ve hit? That was Mr. Jefferson¡¯s car! You must have a death wish!¡± Sweat asrge as beads was trickling out from her forehead, and she felt no pain even though her nails were digging into her own skin. There was hate and despair in her eyes, even as she murmured through her pale lips, ¡°You mean¡­ Isaac Jefferson?¡± ¡°Who do you think you are, saying his name?!¡± Nheless, the man stopped when they saw her bleeding between her legs-their orders were to give the culprit a lesson to remember, and to cause no deaths. All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. With that, they left her in the middle of nowhere. Irene was unable to move as every inch of her body hurts terribly. It was with much difficulty that she finally reached her phone and called Zachary¡¯s number. The call was soon answered, and she sobbed, ¡°Save me¡­ You have to save my children.¡± ¡°Where are you?!¡± Zachary asked urgently. Irene feebly pulled the ck sack off her face and looked around it was a wastnd, so she had no idea. ¡°Send me your location.¡± Irene quickly did so, and as she waited for Zachary, she tried her best to keep herself stable, but she was already bleeding down her legs. Knowing that nothing could be done, she slowly closed her eyes, her tears trickling off her cheeks and falling to the dirt below. When Zachary arrived, she found Irene lying on the dirt and appeared in a bad shape. He scooped her up in his arms, striding forward while assuring her, ¡°You¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯m going to save you.¡± ¡°Can you save my children?¡± Irene groaned hoarsely, Zachary then noticed that her pants were dyed crimson. He turned silent¨Cnothing could be done now, because a miscarriage was almost assured. Even so, he told her, ¡°I¡¯ll do whatever I can.¡± Gentlyying her in his car, he drove off at top speed. Sheryl arrived at Spencer Mansion. She did not tell Irene that she was getting discharged, because she wanted to resolve her own issues. After all, she had been a burden to her own daughter for too long, and she must not keep burdening her. She has returned to the mansion to pick up her daughter¡¯s belongings and to discuss a divorce with Lionel. She had the keys to the mansion, but just as she was about to enter, she heard the cries of panic within. The Runaway Groom Chapter 50 The Runaway Groom Chapter 50 Chapter 50 ¡°Mom, Dad, you have to help me, or I¡¯ll definitely end up in prison!¡± Ricky Spencer was crying out even as he tugged on Samantha¡¯s hand. Lionel red at his incorrigible son. ¡°What have you done this time?¡± he growled ¨C it was certainly not Ricky¡¯s first offense. ¡°I-I was just trying to practice my driving ahead of my driver¡¯s test. Irene¡¯s SUV was just sitting there and no one¡¯s using it, so I drove it around, and then I got caught in an ident¡­¡± ¡°What?!¡± Lionel almost died from a heart attack right then. ¡°Just days ago, you almost blinded someone with a skewer, and I had to spend so much on damages and apologize to finally resolve it! Now, you¡¯re telling me you caused an ident? And without a license?! You honestly don¡¯t appreciate being alive, do you?¡± ¡°Calm down, Lionel. Ricky¡¯s your only son, and he hasn¡¯tpleted his studies yet! You have to help him, he can¡¯t go to prison. Would he have a future if he does? The SUV is Irene¡¯s, so just say that it was her¡­¡± ¡°Dream on, Samantha White!¡± Sheryl bellowed right then she was being tough for the first time in her life. ¡°Trying to make my daughter a scapegoat for your son, are you? Over my dead body!¡± Lionel was surprised by her sudden appearance and stammered, ¡°Y-You¡¯ve recovered already?¡± Turning toward him, Sheryl growled, ¡°We¡¯ve been married for 26 years, Lionel. I never asked you for anything or med you for taking a mistress, all because I can¡¯t give you a son. I never said a word when you used our daughter as a tool to secure a connection. Yes, that¡¯s all in the past, but if you dare to use Irene as a scapegoat for your son¡¯s hit and-run, I¡¯ll take you down!¡± ¡°What are you saying? There¡¯s no way I¡¯d do that! Ricky is still young, and he¡¯s just frightened. We don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on or what happened to the other car, but don¡¯t worry-I¡¯ll look into it. I promise I won¡¯t use Irene as a scapegoat.¡± Lionel might love his son, but he would never upset Sheryl and her daughter over Ricky. After all, Irene was now Isaac¡¯s wife and a member of the Jefferson family. He had been grooming her since she was a child, all for this moment! That was why he was not about to dig his own grave. ¡°Guess you still have a conscience, but you¡¯d bettere true on your promise,¡± Sheryl replied, heading upstairs while ncing between Samantha and Lionel. ¡°Also, I want a divorce-after all, I should free up some space for your family of three right then.¡± Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. Lionel snapped right then. ¡°Who said anything about a divorce? I¡¯ll never divorce you, so don¡¯t even think about it.¡± ¡°Do you think there¡¯s a point to this marriage?¡± Sheryl asked in return. ¡°Point? Who cares?! What I say goes, and I¡¯ve decided that we¡¯re not getting a divorce!¡± Lionel bellowed stubbornly. Samantha was flustered, however, because she really wanted Sheryl and Lionel to get a divorce. ¡°Lionel, our boy is an adult now. For legal reasons ¨C ¡°What legal reasons?! I acknowledge him as my son, and that¡¯s enough!¡± Lionel yelled viciously, his indignation piling thanks to Ricky. ¡°Don¡¯t you try to get involved here! Go out and find out if your son killed somebody. If he did, he¡¯s going straight to jail because he¡¯s an adult, just like you said! Honestly, what have you ever taught him? What can he ever do except cause trouble?!¡± Lionel was already fuming from his son¡¯s behavior, and Sheryl¡¯s demand for a divorce on top of that was nothing less than adding fuel to fire! Naturally, he was so incensed that there was no sentiment left in his words. Samantha also became frustrated at her own son for humiliating her in front of Lionel. Shooting him an angry re, she pulled her along, deliberately saying out loud, ¡°Let¡¯s go. This isn¡¯t our home, and you should be cleaning up your own mess. Be it prison or the chair, you deserve it.¡± Lionel eyed her. ¡°Don¡¯t bother trying to make me sympathize¨Cthat won¡¯t work. Find out who was in the other car, and take the me if things get serious. You should be thinking about your son¡¯s future, after all.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 51 The Runaway Groom Chapter 51 Chapter 51 With those words, Lionel headed upstairs. Samantha was left pouting, but there was no way she could abandon her son to his own fate right now-she had to listen to Lionel¡¯s instruction. ¡°Let¡¯s go. Tell me where it happened,¡± she said as she pulled Ricky along. ¡°But Dadjust-¡± Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. Ricky had more to say, but Samantha cut him short right then. ¡°Just stop it and deal with your own mess right now! I was just humiliated because of you!¡± Upstairs, Lionel found Sheryl packing her bags, and walked over to pull the dress she was holding out of her grasp. ¡°We¡¯ve been married for most of our lives. Do you really think a divorce is necessary?¡± Sheryl sneered. ¡°What, I¡¯m supposed to let you keep using me like a tool, and ruin my daughter¡¯s life?¡± ¡°How did I ruin her life? Do you have any idea how much money I spent on her as a child, the lessons I paid for?¡± ¡°You know very well why you paid for all that. Also, I¡¯ve given up on you ever since you¡¯ve used my illness to coerce Irene into that arranged marriage. I thought you took a mistress only because I can¡¯t give you a son, but now everything is clear-you never cared about Irene or me. There will be a divorce, no matter what happens!¡± Sheryl pped his hand away and kept stuffing more clothes into the suitcase. Lionel took a moment to calm down, and exined, ¡°I had Irene take those lessons for her own good. Even if I had my own motives, what¡¯s wrong with learning more skills? You¡¯re being unreasonable!¡± Sheryl, however, refused to y his game. ¡°This argument is pointless. Either way, I want a divorce!¡± Seeing that she was determined, Lionel¡¯s irritation finally got to him-he promptly lifted the suitcase into the air and smashed it heavily on the ground, and the clothing inside spilled out. Sheryl was left startled for moments, but she soon came to her senses. ¡°It¡¯s fine. There¡¯s nothing valuable here anyway-my daughter is now Mrs. Jefferson, so there¡¯s nothing I can¡¯t get now.¡± Her words were deliberate and intended to annoy Lionel. As she headed downstairs and gave up on packing, he caught her and said, ¡°What are you doing? Let¡¯s talk about this.¡± Sheryl shook off his hand. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to talk about except the divorce.¡± ¡°No! There won¡¯t be divorce!¡± Lionel bellowed, determined against a divorce. ¡°I¡¯m telling you-you belong to me, Sheryl! Whether alive or dead!¡± Sheryl gave him a brief nce but had no intention to keep arguing. Either way, the divorce was going to happen-if he refused to discuss it amiably, she just had to consult awyer and deal with the subsequentwsuit. It was his fault for cheating first anyway. Striding downstairs, she left Spencer Mansion. Remembering that Ricky was the culprit of a hit-and-run, she decided that she must tell Irene to prepare ordingly as soon as possible. However, a man answered her call instead. ¡°Who are you? Where¡¯s my daughter?¡± Sheryl held her breath, wondering if the man was Isaac¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 52 The Runaway Groom Chapter 52 Chapter 52 ¡°I¡¯m Zachary te. Irene is slightly hurt, and she¡¯s having surgery right now,¡± Zachary answered ¨C he was standing right outside the operating room. Sheryl felt as if her heart had stopped right then. ¡°What happened? Did my daughter get hurt?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Zachary replied. Flustered and anxious, Sheryl quickly asked, ¡°Which hospital?¡± ¡°Central Hospital at the Second Militarized Zone.¡± ¡°Okay, I got it.¡± Sherly hung up, and promptly hailed a taxi to head there. On the surgical table, Irene caught the scrubs of the doctor who would be operating on her. ¡°Can you save my baby?¡± She had already been screened, and while it was confirmed that she had suffered a miscarriage, one of the twins could still be saved. ¡°Are you sure you want to keep it?¡± Irene¡¯s cheeks were as white as a sheet, and her lips were dry and bleeding, ¡°I¡¯m sure,¡± she answered hoarsely. ¡°I¡¯m counting on you.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll do my best,¡± the doctor replied. Zachary was a thoracic surgeon, so he had to get the best obstetrician to help Irene. As the chief surgeon under the obstetric division, her ability was naturally indisputable. Still, Zachary had seen Irene¡¯s condition firsthand, and was pacing around anxiously. By the time Sheryl rushed to the hospital and arrived in front of the operating room, Irene was still inside. ¡°How did she get hurt?¡± she asked. ¡°Why would anyone hurt her?¡± Zachary actually did not know the specifics, but he refrained from telling Sheryl anything either. He was aware that Sheryl had just recovered from a major surgery herself and should not suffer from too much shock, so he stayed silent for the moment. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. She will be fine.¡± Sheryl, however, was beside herself with worry. ¡°Honestly, she suffered so much just because she has me as her mother¡­¡± If only she had understood earlier that divorcing Lionel was better for her daughter now, Irene was hurt, and there was no telling if it was serious. Alter over an hour, Irene was wheeled out of the operating room. She was beaten on her body and not on her face, so her bruises and cuts were not visible, but she looked very weak Sheryl approached her with tears in her eyes, gently calling out Irene¡¯s name. ¡°Irene?¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Irene did not even have the strength to turn to her. She did not want her mother to worry after she had recently recovered, and asked feebly,¡±I¡¯m fine, don¡¯t worry¡­ You¡¯re discharged already?¡± Sheryl nodded. ¡°You should find a hotel to stay in, Mom-I¡¯ll transfer some money to you, so rest for now. Zachary here will take care of me,¡± Irene said then, eager to make Sheryl leave just then Sheryl, however, grasped her hand and said, ¡°No, I¡¯m worried for you¡­ Ricky just had an ident in your car. I don¡¯t know how bad it was, but I¡¯m afraid you might get involved since it was registered under your name.¡± Irene understood right then. She blinked feebly, her eyshes twitching lightly even as she spaced out just then, ¡°O Okay. I¡¯ll be fine, Mom. Like I said, go to a hotel ¨C I want to rest alone for now. You¡¯re just going to make me worry about your health if you stay with me. I can¡¯t calm down.¡± Sheryl realized right then that Irene was trying to make her leave, and said tearfully,¡± I¡¯ve already asked your father for a divorce. Just talk to me if you have problems¡­ Who knows, I might be able to help!¡± Irene, however, was too exhausted and not eager to talk just then. ¡°I¡¯m really fine, Mom. I¡¯ll tell you if I do have problems.¡± She needed to wait before she could tell Sheryl about everything, but she also had to leave out certain details such as being beaten up. If Sheryl were to find out, she would definitely panic, but there was time for thatter. Seeing that Irene was quite weak, Sheryl then asked, ¡°I¡¯lle visit again at night, alright?¡± Irene nodded. Sheryl rose to her feet and turned to Zachary then. ¡°Thanks for saving my daughter.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me,¡± Zachary replied. ¡°No, I should,¡± Sheryl insisted. After she left, Zachary wheeled Irene to her ward. He asked nothing, because he knew that she needed a lot of rest right now. ¡°I¡¯ll be right here. Give me a shout if there¡¯s anything you need or if you¡¯re feeling sick, ¡± he said quietly. Irene nodded and closed her eyes, dozing off for two hours before waking up. ¡°I¡¯m thirsty,¡± she rasped. The Runaway Groom Chapter 53 The Runaway Groom Chapter 53 Chapter 53 Zachary poured Irene a ss of water, and she drank half of it to ease the dryness of her throat. She felt a little just then better, but she was still aching all over. ¡°What happened? Who did that to you?¡± Zachary asked, unable to hold back his indignation and firing a guess. ¡°Could it be Whitney?¡± Irene shook her head-she would have believed that herself, if her mother did not tell her that Ricky was driving her car. But now, everything was clear: Ricky was driving her car, and got into a car ident involving Isaac. The concerned departments would have gotten involved if it had been serious, but Isaac had decided to punish whom he presumed to be the culprit-meaning he was either seriously hurt, or very pissed off. The thought that she was assaulted because her stepbrother was involved in an ident left her feeling especially indignant. ¡°Zachary, I¡¯ve made up my mind, I¡¯ll divorce Isaac soon,¡± she said quietly. ¡°I¡¯ve lost one of my children, and the other might not be safe if I stayed with him. I¡¯ll come clean about my pregnancy too.¡± Zachary nodded. ¡°You¡¯re doing the right thing.¡± He was not actually obsessed with making Irene divorce Isaac, but they had their own children now-that alone set an inseparable rift between them. In fact, they had so many obstacles between them they would always have trouble letting their rtionship bloom, and any chance they had was gone after Whitney and Irene got pregnant. ¡°I¡¯m sure Isaac wouldn¡¯t force Whitney to get an abortion not matter how much he hates her.¡± Zachary spoke what was on his mind then. Irene pursed her lips. ¡°What are you talking about? Would he have gotten her pregnant if he hates her?¡± To think that she stupidly bought Isaac¡¯s ims that he felt nothing for Whitney at the time¡­ when they were already parents! Who knew? He might just be the type who thinks with his loins. Still, she sighed and decided that she had no right to say anything against him. That was why she did not feel grief over that ¡ª none of it mattered to her now. At another hospital, Isaac¡¯s secretary returned to give him an update on the situation. The doctor who operated on Ms. Cox fled, but I¡¯ve sent our people to find him. Also, we¡¯ve found the driver involved in the hit-and-run, and punished them per your instructions. These are the details we have of her.¡± The secretary held out the sheet of paper to him, but Isaac was not interested. ¡°Find that doctor.¡± Why would he run if he had not done anything suspicious? No one would be convinced otherwise. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± the secretary replied. ¡°I¡¯ll assign more people on it. Also Ms. Cox was asking to see you, but I stopped her. Should I let her in?¡± Original from N?velDrama.Org. Isaac waved her off, he was a lot less than eager, not to mention that there was no reason to. Their child was dead, and having his secretary punish that driver would be cathartic enough, or indeed payback enough for the dead child. His secretary started to leave then. ¡°I will be right outside, sir. Just give me a shout if you need me.¡± However, she identally dropped the sheet when she headed for the door, and Isaac unwittingly noticed the name written in bold font on it: Irene Spencer. The secretary picked it up and continued to leave, when Isaac called out to her. ¡°Show me what you have on that driver.¡± With that, the secretary passed the sheet of paper to him¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 54 The Runaway Groom Chapter 54 Chapter 54 When Isaac took the sheet of paper and saw that Irene¡¯s name was on it, he frowned.¡± This isn¡¯t the driver!¡± The driver he saw was a young man! The secretary had no idea why Isaac was suddenly hostile, but admitted, ¡°The SUV was registered under Ms. Spencer¡¯s name¡­¡± ¡°And that makes her the culprit?¡± Isaac growled as he got off the hospital bed and leveled an icy re at her. ¡°Is she the one you punished?¡± The secretary kept her head down in silence. Fuming, Isaac bellowed, ¡°I¡¯m asking you a question!¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± the secretary finally replied. Isaac was hyperventting from sheer frustration, and the secretary quickly apologized. ¡°Sorry, I slipped up¡­¡± Isaacpletely ignored her and stormed outside. Whitney, who had been standing by the door and trying to get in, saw himing out. After that ident, it was perfectly reasonable to say that she had lost their child, and Isaac would not be able to say anything against that. ¡°Isaac,¡± she called out, and reached for his arm¡­ Only for Isaac to knock her away furiously. ¡°Move!¡± Whitney dropped to the floor right then, but no one came to help or ask after her. While Isaac¡¯s secretary quickly headed outside and opened the door for him, he got into his car while making a call. Soon, Zachary picked up. ¡°Do you know where Irene is?¡± ¡°I do,¡± Zachary replied. ¡°She¡¯s been admitted to a hospital. I¡¯m with her right now.¡± Isaac sald nothing else and hung up, and told the secretary to drive to Central Hospital. They arrived soon enough, and Isaac quickly alighted and strode inside, heading to the ward where Irene was. Zachary was standing outside when he saw him, and approached him, saying, ¡°Irene¡¯s pregnant, but she suffered a miscarriage. I¡¯m sure you know why.¡± He said that on his own volition, because he did not consider Irene a stranger-she was All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. Isaac¡¯s wise! Now that she had made up her mind to keep the surviving twin, she was definitely going to divorce Isaac. At the same time, Isaac¡¯s tense reaction faded as his cheeks clenched. ¡°What did you say? She¡¯s pregnant?¡± As Zachary nodded, he felt as if his breath left his lungs as his chest tightened terribly! She was pregnant? Whose child was it?! It could not have been his because he had never touched her! ¡°Calm down, Isaac. You both cheated on each other, don¡¯t you think? Whitney Cox is pregnant with your child, so you¡¯re both even. Don¡¯t get too upset, and try not to me Irene too much. Just part ways amicably¡­¡± Isaac, however, simply shoved Zachary away as he roared furiously, ¡°Fuck off!¡± He kicked open the door to Irene¡¯s ward, but she did not react much because she knew he was there. Getting agitated now would only hurt her child, which was why she must show restraint. ¡°Let¡¯s get a divorce, Isaac,¡± she said calmly. However, Isaac¡¯s eyes were ring with rage, his chest heaving as a fire seemed to spark within. ¡°Divorce? Just because you say so?¡± While he could not help feeling heartache as he saw her lying feebly in bed, he was incensed by the fact that she was pregnant with someone else¡¯s child! Even as he resisted the impulse to strangle her, he growled, ¡°Who¡¯s the father? Tell me. Irene remained calm as ever. ¡°You knew I was sleeping with other men already.¡± A vein bulged over Isaac¡¯s temple right then as he red at her furiously. ¡°Weren¡¯t you taking morning after pills? Were you cheating on me again after that?!¡±. ¡°Yes, I did,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I¡¯ve cheated on you on more than one asion, so let¡¯s get a divorce.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 55 The Runaway Groom Chapter 55 Chapter 55 ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Isaac bellowed, breathing each syble louder than the next as his cheeks flushed crimson and turned dark, the veins in his neck bulging as if something could pop just then. Seizing her neck, he snarled, ¡°I¡¯ll strangle you to death right now!¡± ¡°I know you will,¡± Irene replied with equal resolve and determination. ¡°But I¡¯m not afraid. I hate you!¡± ¡°Just because I slipped up and caused your miscarriage?¡± he asked, and continued because she answered, ¡°I would¡¯ve made you get an abortion even if I didn¡¯t-I¡¯d never let you give birth to a bastard just to mess with me! Everything¡¯s just fine now, since I don¡¯t have to do it myself. Guess even someone up there is refusing to let you have that bastard, that¡¯s why the mistake happened in the first ce!¡± Her repetitive use of ¡®bastard¡¯ stung Irene in the heart, leaving her utterly hysterical. ¡°I hate you! I wish you were dead!¡± Hate and fury zed within her eyes. On the other hand, Isaac¡¯s hands flinched over her neck. She wanted him dead because she had lost her bastard? He slowly released her, but growled, ¡°You¡¯re being delusional if you want to divorce me, Irene Spencer. I told you that the more you suffer when you¡¯re with me, the more eager I would be to make you stay! Irene¡¯s fingers balled into a fist and eased. She did so repeatedly, until she gradually calmed down. ¡°Whitney is already pregnant with your child, Isaac Jefferson. Are you so obsessed with grudges that you are refusing to make her your wife and start a family for your child¡¯s sake? How does keeping me around benefit you at all?¡± ¡°She had a miscarriage too,¡± Isaac simply said. ¡°Because of that ident. Now, tell me ¡ª who was driving your SUV?¡± Irene¡¯s eyes widened. Whitney had a miscarriage too? Was that why Isaac was so furious that he personally punished the driver instead of waiting? She never felt a thing for her stepbrother, because that boy and his mother were the reason her parents¡¯ marriage was such a mess. ¡°Ricky Spencer ¨C Lionel Spencer¡¯s bastard.¡± If Isaac wanted revenge, he could have as much of it as he wanted. ¡°He¡¯ll pay dearly for that.¡± Isaac promised as he sat beside her bed. ¡°You suffered a miscarriage too, so just stay with me.¡± Irene thought about the remaining twin in her belly, and knew that she would simply lose if she tried anything drastic, As such, she decided topromise for appearance¡¯s sake. ¡°Fine.¡± All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. Her n was to let Isaac distract himself with other matters-once he let his guard down, she would finally have the chance to run away. With that, they stopped saying a word. The ward was eerily silent, and the softest of breaths could be heard. It was Isaac who first broke the silence after a long while. ¡°Let me take a look at you.¡± Irene said nothing to that. Staring at her, Isaac asked, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying a word?¡± However, it was not as if she did not want to talk-she had no idea what she should say. Isaac hence reached out to lift her nket, leaving her eyes widening. ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°Checking your condition,¡± Isaac replied. Irene was repulsed, and refused. ¡°No.¡± Isaac¡¯s eyes turned red like a wrathful beast, a visage that would stir fear in any heart.¡± No? Then who is allowed to see-your beloved? You¡¯d better pray I never find out who he is, Irene Spencer, or I¡¯ll cut his balls off. That way, you won¡¯t ever get to make me a cuck again!¡± Irene stared at him warily, but said, ¡°Isaac, do you actually realize?¡± ¡°Realize what?¡± ¡°You¡¯re being very weird. Did you not realize it yourself?¡± After all, she really did not understand Isaac¡¯s inexplicable behavior, let alone why he insisted on keeping her with him. ¡°Is it possible that you¡¯re not disgusted with me just then?¡± Isaac¡¯s visage shisted between various expressions right then. He had more or less realized that he was actually attracted to Irene, but could not ovee the mental obstacle that she was unclean. That was why he was not willing-even afraid-to admit it. Had he, Isaac Jefferson, fallen in love with a woman with loose morals?! What augh! ¡°Of course you disgust me! Did you think I¡¯m trying to ogle your body by checking on your injuries as an excuse? Could you not give yourself too much credit? I¡¯d never fall for a woman with a messy private life and was pregnant with someone else¡¯s child!¡± Suddenly, he threw himself on top of her, prompting her to throw up her hands in panic to stop him. ¡°I¡¯m still hurting. Don¡¯t get too close.¡± Be that as it may, from up close, Isaac saw a sign of bruising near her corbone just beneath her cor. Creasing his brow, he reached out to pull her blouse, but Irene promptly grabbed her hand. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me.¡± ¡°I won¡¯t if you stay put. I¡¯m just taking one look,¡± he countered. ¡°Try to y hard to get, and I¡¯ll resort to violence.¡± That left Irene speechless. ying hard to get? That was thest thing she wanted to hear from him! This man was really impossible! ¡°Like I said, just don¡¯t move.¡± Isaac¡¯s tone turned mild ever so slightly then. He reached out to pull off her blouse, and found the bruises over her body. There was a momentary sh of heartache in his eyes, and he asked ever so quietly,¡± Does it hurt?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 56 The Runaway Groom Chapter 56 Chapter 56 Did it hurt? For Irene, it was only natural that it hurt. However, any physical injury would neverpare to the heartache she felt from losing one of her children. She lowered her eyes and did not respond then. At the same time, Isaac was grasping her arm to stop her from moving at all¡­ and suddenly leaned in to kiss her lips. ¡°Umph! Did you lose your mind?!¡± she snapped. Isaac simply grinned in return, an evil look showing across his face right then. ¡°You must answer when I ask you a question. That is basic manners, and I would have to instruct you if you don¡¯t know that. Just now was a punishment, and if you insist on being stubborn or using silence as a way of resistance, my punishment will only get worse.¡± Pausing for a moment, he then added, ¡°I¡¯m a man of my word.¡± On the other hand, Irene was already hurt, and since she also had to protect her child, she did not dare to fight back-even if she felt utter disgust toward Isaac just then, she did not dare to say a word. One of her twins was gone, and it all started with Whitney performing an amniocentesis after drugging her,ying the groundwork to potential miscarriage. Isaac¡¯s misidentification of the driver who had caused his ident, which led to her being clobbered, simply sealed the deal. Both of them were now her enemies who had killed her child. As such, there was no way she would want intimacy with the likes of Isaac-not when her own child was killed just hours ago! Meanwhile, Isaac was still staring at her as she said, ¡°Isn¡¯t your lover going to visit you after all that¡¯s happened? Why could you possibly see a man who can¡¯t even protect his own lover?¡± Irene pursed her pale-white lips. ¡°I love him, and that¡¯s enough for me.¡± Isaac was left speechless, his desire for her abruptly vaporizing, reced by white-hot fury. Even so, he did not fly into rage right then. After all, she looked so frail and miserable that even harsh words were enough to maim her. ¡°Well, you¡¯re staying with me no matter how much you love him. Hell, do you know how happy I am in the knowledge that nothing woulde of your affection for him?¡± he said, rising to his feet as he slipped his hands into his pockets. As he stood before her with his towering frame, his expression was distinctly gleeful with the satisfaction of tormenting her. ¡°There¡¯s no chance of you running away with him, Irene.¡± All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. Irene held his gaze. ¡°What good would it do you to keep me around?¡± ¡°I¡¯m happy that you¡¯re unhappy,¡± he simply replied. ¡°Isn¡¯t that enough?¡± Irene¡¯s lips were twitching and just stopped short of calling him nuts! ¡°I¡¯m going now,¡± Isaac said and turned to leave-in reality, he wanted to offer some words of concern, but his pride forbade it, leading to such a cool response. Stepping outside the ward, he saw that Zachary had not left yet, since he was worried that things would get hostile in the room. Nheless, Isaac had calmned down considerably, and was a lot less furious than when he found out that Irene was pregnant. Even his tone sounded even now. ¡°She looks a little serious. How soon can she recover?¡± ¡°It would take at least half a month, if not the entire month,¡± Zachary replied. In truth, he had deliberately given Isaac a longer timeframe. Even if Irene could recover from most of her injuries within the week, the bruises would be staying on her body for a while. While it would not stop her from getting off her bed or walking, she should be staying in bed and resting for at least ten days or two weeks if she wanted to keep the child in her belly safe. She should only move around normally after showing no other signs of potential miscarriage. ¡°I see,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°Take good care of her for me.¡± Zachary nodded. ¡°I will.¡± Isaac turned to nce at the ward once more before leaving, while Zachary waited until he was gone from sight before entering the ward, and quickly asked Irene, ¡°So? How did it go?¡± ¡°Not good,¡± she replied. ¡°He doesn¡¯t want to divorce me at all, because he insists that just keeping me around is enough torture for me.¡± ¡°Is he nuts?¡± Zachary eximed. ¡°Also, isn¡¯t he torturing himself by keeping you around?¡± ¡°He¡¯s nuts,¡± Irene said in agreement, pursing her lips. Zachary suddenly remembered Stan telling him that Isaac had feelings for Irene, and said gingerly, ¡°Actually¡­ Irene, maybe the reason he¡¯s not divorcing is because he actually has feelings for you.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 57 The Runaway Groom Chapter 57 Chapter 57 They were both murderers who had killed her child. There was no way she would feel anything toward them other than loathing! ¡°But what are you going to do if Isaac still refuses to divorce you?¡± Zachary reminded her then. ¡°You can hide your pregnancy for a few more months, but there¡¯s no way you can hide it as more time passes by.¡± In reality, Irene had an idea, but she did not tell Zachary-he was too much of a friend to Isaac. And if Zachary were to find out, it was only expected that Isaac would find out. As such, she simply acted as if she had no ns, and said, ¡°I have no idea. We¡¯ll just have to cross that bridge when we reach it.¡± ¡°If pushes to shove, you just have to run away in secret,¡± Zachary suggested. ¡°Just stay out of Isaac¡¯s mind, and he¡¯ll eventually forget about you.¡± Irene gave him a dark look. ¡°Do you really believe that Isaac would ever fail to find me once he sets his mind on it?¡± ¡°Well, no¡­¡± Zachary muttered, perfectly aware of what Isaac was like and how he did things ¡°Alright, I¡¯m sleepy now. I need some rest,¡± Irene said then. ¡°Okay,¡± Zachary said as he started to leave. ¡°Just call me when you need me.¡± ¡°Sure,¡± Irene murmured. Then, as Zachary opened the door, she suddenly called out to him. ¡°Zachary¡­ Thank you.¡± ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to thank me,¡± Zachary said, giving her a look. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that between us.¡± Irene shed a faint smile. Exhausted, she fell asleep soon after Zachary left. Later at night, Sheryl visited Irene again, and brought some food. After eating some of it, she said solemnly, ¡°Mom, I have something to tell you.¡± Sheryl gave her a sympathetic look. ¡°Okay, tell me.¡±All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. ¡°I want to divorce Isaac, but he¡¯s stubbornly refusing,¡± Irene said with an even tone.¡± There¡¯s no way I can live with him, and the only choice for me is to speak away and run ¨C I have to escape somewhere he¡¯d never find me.¡± Holding her gaze, Sheryl told her, ¡°It¡¯s the same for me. I asked your father for a divorce, but he¡¯s determined to stop me too. I¡¯m thinking about going through the legal system to get it done, but since you¡¯re having trouble getting a divorce as well, we should just run away together¡­ We¡¯ll go to a city where no one knows us and start a new life.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°But we need to leave without leaving any traces ¨C do you understand, Mom?¡¯ ¡°I know.¡± Sheryl nodded, ¡°We need to keep quiet if we are to make a clean getaway.¡± ¡°Come here¡­¡± Irene then beckoned for Sheryl to get closer, and leaned in to whisper into her mothers ear. As Sheryl nodded repeatedly, Irene finished. ¡°I¡¯ll transfer the money to your ount. Take your time to settle down over there, and I¡¯ll join you after a while.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Sheryl replied. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure everything is ready when you arrive.¡± Still, she pointed out worriedly, ¡°But you¡¯re here alone, and you¡¯re injured¡­¡± ¨C ¡°I can handle this, Mom.¡± Irene shed a bright smile at her. Sheryl nodded-right now, she must do her best not to be a burden to her daughter, and maintain an exit route for her. She would stay with Irene for the night, but leave early the next morning. The mother and child duo trusted each other, and they would be counting on each other to escape their currently tumultuous lives. As morning arrives, Sheryl reluctantly leaves the hospital-Irene still needed to stay in the hospital to recover for the time being. Meanwhile, Isaac had arrived at another hospital to check on Stan. The man had since regained consciousness, but he was extensively injured and would need rest for a long while. At the same time, Whitney was constantly watching Isaac and probing his current intentions. Deliberately maintaining a haggard appearance, she gingerly murmured, ¡°Isaac¡­ My heart hurts so much¡­ Our child is gone¡­¡± Isaac¡¯s expression was aloof, and he was not even bothered to nce her way. ¡°Isaac¡­¡± Whitney persisted, inching her way closer. That was when Isaac¡¯s secretary strode upand stepped between them, while telling Isaac, ¡°We¡¯ve found the doctor, Mr. Jefferson.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 58 The Runaway Groom Chapter 58 Chapter 58 Isaac finally turned around to look at Whitney as he coldly growled, ¡°Bring him over.¡± At the same time, Whitney was dumbstruck as a sense of panic slowly seized her.¡± Doctor? What doctor?¡± Isaac then took a seat on the couch in the ward, folding his legs elegantly as he spoke,¡± Weren¡¯t you saying that you suffered from a miscarriage? And after that, the doctor who operated on you fled for no reason? My man managed to reach him, and we¡¯re bringing him back as we speak.¡± Whitney¡¯s legs caved, and she almost dropped to the floor in sheer terror. In reality, she had been the first person who regained consciousness after the ident. She quickly spent a huge amount of money to pay off the doctor operating her, so that he would tell Isaac¡¯s secretary that she had suffered from a miscarriage and lost her Original from N?velDrama.Org. baby. The money she gave him naturally included the money he would need to run away¡­ but Isaac was saying that he had now been captured and brought back? Whitney began, ¡°Listen to me, Isaac¡­¡± ¡°You can talk all you wantter. Patience,¡± Isaac growled as he suddenly turned toward her. Amenacing aura seemed to spill from his towering form like a storm, and Whitney¡¯s legs seemed to turn to jelly as she dropped to the floor. But even though she was trembling, she slowly crawled forward and gingerly grabbed the hem of his trousers, crying, ¡°Please, don¡¯t listen to his lies¡­ Would I ever lie to you¡­?¡± Isaac looked down on her, dragging her own body over the floor miserably. Was there anything about her that was likable? Was there anything about her that was worth his affection? And yet, he had fallen for her that night. Now, it only seemed that the tenderness in the darkness would notst in the light. Meanwhile, Isaac¡¯s secretary returned, leading two men who were keeping the doctor restrained. There was bruising on the doctor¡¯s face. It was obvious that he had been interrogated beforehand, and the instant he saw Whitney, he cried, ¡°That¡¯s her ¡ª that¡¯s the woman! She paid me off and told me to lie to you!¡± Whitney promptly looked up and shot him an angry re. ¡°What are you talking about?! I don¡¯t even know you!¡± Naturally, she was not going to admit to anything, and it was true that the doctor was not an acquaintance of hers. In fact, he would not have lied in the first ce if he was not enticed by the money offered, but now that he had been captured by Isaac, he was suddenly perfectly aware of whom he should never have offended. ¡°Yes, you don¡¯t know me, but it¡¯s the truth that you¡¯d definitely bribed me and told me to tell a lie. I have evidence that I received your money, and it¡¯ll just take a quick check to find out who I got the money from.¡± Pausing for a moment, the doctor then added, ¡°Also, you were never pregnant. That can be checked as well ¨C we happen to be in a hospital, after all.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t try to nder me!¡± Whitney screamed, struggling even though her fate was sealed. ¡°Please, Isaac, you can¡¯t listen to his lies¡­¡± ¡°Lies or not, we¡¯ll know once we¡¯ve checked,¡± Isaac retorted, and held out a hand. His secretary promptly presented him with the bank records, which showed that Whitney had indeed bribed the doctor. Isaac scanned through it with an impassive expression and flung the records at Whitney¡¯s face when he was done. ¡°You never know when to give up, do you?¡± he growled, and turned toward his secretary. ¡°Take her away and get her checked.¡± ¡°No, I won¡¯t go!¡± Whitney cried as she wrapped herself around Isaac¡¯s foot. ¡°Please, you have to believe me. He¡¯s just trying to set me up¡­¡± ¡°Why would I do that? I have nothing against you,¡± the doctor countered. Isaac lost all his patience right then, and barked, ¡°Take her away already!¡± The burly men standing behind his secretary promptly dragged Whitney away from him, and despite her reluctance, she was forced into the pregnancy tests. The results were out after just half an hour, and Isaac¡¯s secretary returned to him to report, ¡°Ms. Cox was never pregnant. In fact, she¡¯s currently on her period.¡± Isaac glowered right then. So that was why he saw the blood trickling out between her legs¡­ and for some reason, the fact that she was never pregnant left him breathing a sigh of relier! At the bottom of his heart, he was not eager to have a child with that woman, and things were just right now. ¡°Bring her here,¡± he said fatly. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± ¡®The secretary lest again. With the truth revealed with irrefutable evidence, Whitney could no longer try to lie her way out of it. All she could do right now was to cry a river as she did all she could to plead for mercy, while looking utterly miserable. ¡°Please, Isaac, forgive me this one time¡­ Didn¡¯t I save your life? I only did all this because I love you!¡± Somehow, Isaac was bing calm instead of angry or irritated. ¡°You love me?¡± Isaac repeated her words with much irony. ¡°Is that how you love someone, by deceiving them?¡± ¡°No¡­ That¡¯s not it. It¡¯s just that I made a mistake because I was so in love with you, I didn¡¯t mean to deceive you!¡± One must admit that Whitney had a way with words¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 59 The Runaway Groom Chapter 59 Chapter 59 There was no going back for Whitney, but she was still trying her best to weasel her way out of guilt. Meanwhile, Isaac¡¯s lips were curling coolly. To think that this woman could be this unreasonable¡­ To think that she would attempt to deceive him with a pregnancy! He would have made her wish she was dead, if not for the fact that she had saved him that night! ¡°Whitney, I won¡¯t hold it against you this time. But know this, I¡¯ll only tolerate your nonsense this one time, and I don¡¯t want to see you ever again. Cross the line again, and there will be no mercy!¡± Then, rising to his feet, he told his secretary, ¡°Let her go.¡± ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± Her secretary gestured for the men to release Whitney then. ¡°Isaac¡­¡± Nheless, Whitney lunged toward him again, begging through tears and snot, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to do this¡­! ¡°Keep bugging me, and I¡¯ll make sure you don¡¯t get to stay in this city!¡± he said with an even tone, but there was endless intimidation in his words. Whitney finally let go of him then, and dropped to the floor with an ashen face. Her n to fake a pregnancy could have propelled her to be Mrs. Jefferson¡­ but it ended up ruining everything instead! Mrs. Jefferson? Right now, the mere sight of her disgusted Isaac, and that was the only thing he felt about her now! She had lost so much more than what she had paid for now, and she was beaten with no hopes of salvaging anything! She had failed, losing Isaac and any chance to rise above! Even so, she was not resigned to her fate-how did it turn out like this?! At the Central Hospital, Mrs. Watson arrived with excellent food. Irene was certainly surprised to see her. ¡°Why did youe here, Mrs. Watson?¡± ¡°Mr. Jefferson told me that you¡¯re sick and need proper nourishment,¡± Mrs. Watson exined as she brought out each of the food containers. ¡°He told me to bring you food everyday until you get discharged.¡± Everything she brought was exceedingly nourishing to the body, and thanks to Mrs. Watson¡¯s immacte culinary skills, Irene felt her appetite stirring just from looking. It was time for her to eat anyway, and so she must admit that Mrs. Watson arrived with perfect timing. ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t have to thank me!¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°I¡¯m just an old maid-you should be thanking Mr. Jefferson instead, because he¡¯s the one who told me to do my best in caring for you. The ingredients here are top of the line, too. He really spared no expense!¡± As always, Mrs. Watson was eager to bridge their rtionship. Irene simply smiled, but she was far less than epting inside. Was she a horse that Isaac was giving the carrot-and-stick treatment? She had lost a child! Did he think he could make amends just by throwing some food her way? He could dream on!!! After two bowls of broth, she felt sull, though it was ufortable lying down with a full stomach. ¡°Is there anything you¡¯re craving?¡± Mrs. Watson asked. ¡°I can get it for you.¡± ¡°I have this bitter taste in my mouth,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I would like something sweet.¡± The bitterness might be the pain from losing a child, she thought to herself. ¡°Okay. I will bake you a cake tonight,¡± Mrs. Watson said as she cleared the table.¡± Peaches are also in season right now, so I will buy some too.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said as shey down. Mrs. Watson arrived in the evening punctually as she promised, and she stuck to the schedule for the rest of the week. Since she was also cooking different types of food everyday, Irene felt enough appetite and recovered much of her energy. As she tried to get off bed and walk independently, she felt no pain or difort in her belly. Alter thetest checkup, the doctor said, ¡°You¡¯re recovering well, though you really should be careful. Miscarriages often involve other injuries in your womb, and while your child appears to be in good condition at the moment, there is no telling what can happen duringter stages. Irene certainly understood that. ¡°I will be careful.¡± Returning to her ward for dinner, she read another medical textbook as she usually did -one of her few ways to kill time since life in the hospital was exceedingly boring. If she slept during the day, she would not have an easy time falling asleep at night. This time, she was reading until twelve, and she finally put down her book when her eyes felt dry. Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. As she slowly dozed off and time ticked away amid the quietness of the hospital, the door to Irene¡¯s ward slowly opened, and a towering figure strode inside. The Runaway Groom Chapter 60 The Runaway Groom Chapter 60 Chapter 60 There was a single night light staying lit within the ward, but it was quite dim. Still, Isaac ensured that Irene was sound asleep before closing the door behind him and walking to her bed. He studied her, and saw that the color had returned to her face. It was the case over the past few days, and her cheeks were now almost vibrant and her lips a French pink hue. Her jet-ck hair was spread loosely, with a strand sprawled over her brow, but that only adds to her attractiveness. Isaac could not help reaching out to caress her cheek, the tips of his fingers feeling the delicate texture of it. He furrowed his brow. Perhaps his touch tickled her, for Irene turned her head, and Isaac promptly withdrew his hand. ¡°Urgh¡­¡± Irene turned around in bed, and kept sleeping with her back facing him. She shrugged off hier nket when she turned, so Isaac pulled it over her before lying down beside her on what space was left on the bed. He leaned his face against her nape, and wrapped an ar?n around her-nket and all-before falling asleep as well. Despite the darkness of the night, there was warmth and sentiment in that room. Isaac had already left by the time Irene woke up in the morning, and she waspletely unaware that there had been a visitorst night. Mr. Watson brought breakfast at eight, along with plenty of fruit. She ate them after she had her meal, and sat on the couch beside the window to breathe in the sun. Knock, knock! Suddenly, someone was knocking on the door, and Lionel entered before Irene said a Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. thing ¡°Irene!¡± He promptly got to the point. ¡°You have to talk to Isaac Jefferson.¡± After more than a week had passed, he was now more than aware of the details about the car ident Ricky was involved in. The boy had crashed into Isaac Jefferson¡¯s car, and though no one was killed, Stan was extensively injured, even though he has recovered considerably alter treatment. However, Isaac was now pressing charges. To make things worse, Ricky had driven without a license, and since he was already an adult, he must therefore face thew¡¯s judgment. There had been traffic cameras which had captured the incident perfectly as well, including how Ricky ran away immediately after the ident, making it a hit-and-run which only added to his guilt! Nheless, Irene remained nestled on the couch, leveling her bright gaze for a moment and batting her thick eyshes as she blinked. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Why do I have to talk to him?¡± She obviously knew what Lionel was talking about, but feigned ignorance. ¡°Your brother drove your car and somehow crashed it into Isaac Jefferson¡¯s car. You¡¯re his wife, but he¡¯s still pressing charges and doing all he can to punish our family! How can he do that?! Ricky is your brother¡­¡± ¡°Lionel,¡± Irene cut him short. ¡°Mom only had one child and that¡¯s me. Since when did I get a brother?¡± Lionel¡¯s face stiffened and cleared her throat naturally. ¡°He may have a different mother, but you both have the same father¡­¡± ¡°As in, the father who never cared about me? Why would I speak on behalf of such a man?¡± Irene asked. Even if she had long since be apathetic to Lionel¡¯s behavior, blood runs thicker than water-the grievances more or less lingered. Lionel took a deep breath, but kept himself from flipping out. ¡°Have I ever wronged you in any way?¡± Irene looked up at the man with white sideburns. ¡°Lionel, have you forgotten how you tried to stop me when I enrolled in medical school? You actually refused to give me money for my tuition just because I was studying medicine -¡± ¡°And what good woulde of studying medicine?¡± Lionel cut her short before she could finish. ¡°Being a doctor only leads to a busy and exhausting life, and you get paid peanuts for all that trouble. I was grooming you so that you could marry the finest men ¨C so that you wouldn¡¯t have to worry about a thing for the rest of your life. See what came of it? You¡¯re now Isaac Jefferson¡¯s wife, and I¡¯m sure he¡¯d be heads over heels for you if you actually made an effort.¡± Irene could not retort immediately, but eventually asked, ¡°I¡¯m a human and I can think for myself, to decide what I want. Do you even have ambitions, Lionel?¡±. ¡°Of course,¡± Lionel replied. ¡°My grandfather was just an average Joe, and my father was just a chauffeur. I don¡¯t want to lead a life of mediocrity- I want sess, a legacy¡­ And do you have any idea how hard it is to achieve that without a powerful family, backers, or connections?¡± Irene was actually given pause then. All she knew was that Lionel was self-centered. He only ever cared about himself, and used everyone like they were mere tools-just like how he did not hesitate to kick her into hell. The Runaway Groom Chapter 61 The Runaway Groom Chapter 61 Chapter 61 That being said, Irene never once tried to understand what Lionel was thinking, or what he actually wanted. In fact, the sess he wanted was almost no different from her ambition to be a military doctor. It was just that they had different ambitions, and wanted different things for their lives. ¡°All I want is for our family to rise as a dynasty, and my daughter to be an heiress, ¡°Lionel said then, pressing his argument because he sensed that Irene was relenting slightly. Nheless, Irene pursed her lips and asked, ¡°So, you¡¯re saying you have the right to sacrifice me for the sake of your ambition?¡± ¡°How could you call that a sacrifice?¡± Lionel retorted as if he was in the right. ¡°Is Isaac Jefferson ugly or poor? So manydies want to marry him but it would never happen, but we have that opportunity¨Cwhy shouldn¡¯t we seize it? In fact, what sort of a husband could you find for yourself if you didn¡¯t marry Isaac? Would he be better than Isaac?¡± Irene was actually stumped. She knew very well how incredible Isaac was, and heard about how women would hover around him. However, she had also realized how rotten a person he was since she started to live with him. There was just no way of coexisting with that personality, and he could well be just good for his looks. With men like him, one should just be admiring his good looks from a distance without getting close. ¡°You overestimate me, Lionel. I won¡¯t help you no matter what you say,¡± Irene said as she rose to her feet. ¡°Moreover, Samantha is the homewrecker who ruined my mother¡¯s marriage-why would I help her son?¡± ¡°I¡¯m tired, so leave,¡± she said, ordering her unwanted guest¡¯s departure. ¡°Ricky is your brother no matter how you try to deny it,¡± Lionel insisted. Irene simply looked at him and said, ¡°And I¡¯m denying it anyway. What can you do about it?¡± Lionel was showing signs of rage, but had to bear with Irene¡¯s stubbornness given the present situation-alter all, one should at least look the part when begging for a favor. ¡°Tell me, what do you want to agree to help?¡± Irene simplyy down in her bed, closed her eyes, and said nothing. Furious, Lionel was finally driven over the edge. ¡°Get up, Irene! What¡¯s wrong with having a brother? Who would help you when you¡¯re in trouble? Only a brother who shares your blood would truly support you! Sure, I¡¯ve wronged your mother in our marriage, but I never abandoned you two! Can¡¯t you think from my point of view for one second?¡± There was a terrible look on his face, but there was no ce for him to vent his grievances. All he could do was hold it in, leaving a stuffy, burning sensation in his chest. ¡°Fine, sleep on it!¡± Lionel snapped as he turned and headed for the door, and stopped just as he reached the doorway. ¡°Why are you here? Are you sick? Is it serious?¡± In her bed, Irene slowly opened her eyes, staring nkly at the ceiling and saying quietly, ¡°Finally realizing that I¡¯m here, Lionel?¡± Lionel¡¯s heart skipped a beat. However, he only had his own negligence to me-he had been too worried about. Ricky. ¡°Fine, it¡¯s all my fault: forcing you to marry someone you don¡¯t love and making you lead a life you hate!¡± he snapped as he strode outside¡­ ¡­ and ran into Isaac, who had just arrived. Lionel did not expect to see him there, and promptly greeted him fawningly. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. He was the senior here, but he had no guts to pull rank-in fact, he was keeping his head down and his voice unassuming. Be that as it may, Isaac had a horrific look on his face, seemingly because he had overheard Lionel¡¯s last exchange with Irene. He simply ignored Lionel and entered the ward, humiliating Lionel ever so slightly. No matter the circumstances, he was his father-inw, was he not? How could he not spare him an inch of dignity at all?! After being denied by Irene and now getting cold-shouldered by Isaac, Lionel stormed off angrily. On the other hand, Irene overheard Lionel greeting Isaac by the door, and promptly pretended to fall asleep. Naturally, Isaac felt as if his chest was aze. ¡°Are you really sleeping, Irene?¡± he growled even as he withheld his rage. The Runaway Groom Chapter 62 The Runaway Groom Chapter 62 Chapter 62 If Isaac was not concerned about her injuries, he might be strangling Irene again. Was marrying him such a terrible grievance? On the other hand, Irene pretended not to hear him, but her twitching eyshes were a clear sign that she was not asleep. Closing his eyes and taking a moment to let his frustration ease, Isaac reached out to caress her face, and Irene promptly jerked and turned toward him. Isaac chuckled. ¡°Done pretending already?¡± ¡°Pretending for what? I just fell asleep,¡± she said, stretching deliberately while askingnguidly, ¡°What are you doing here?¡± ¡°It¡¯s only natural for me to visit my wife, no?¡± he said, his smile still on his face. ¡°Has Mrs. Watson been attending to you?¡± Irene nodded¨CMrs. Watson had been caring for Irene so well that she was the reason Irene had recovered this quickly. ¡°When are you getting discharged?¡± Isaac asked then. Irene, however, would rather live at the hospital than stay under the same roof with him at the mansion. ¡°It¡¯s still too early to say.¡± Nheless, Isaac saw through her, but did not expose her immediately. ¡°How long did you think you could hide from me?¡± She reigned ignorance. ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about.¡± ¡°Fine. Take your time to rest,¡± Isaac said as he rose to his feet. At the same time Irene picked up the ss of water on the table and took sips with a nonchnt look, that basically told Isaac that she was fine without him around. Naturally, seeing that left Isaac furning, but he could not do a thing while she was hurt! Gritting his teeth, he growled, ¡°Keep challenging me, woman, and I¡¯ll make you pay twice the price.¡± Irene thought nothing of it, but once Isaac left, Whitney-who had been hiding nearby -showed up. She had taken a few days¡¯ worth of leave, because what happened at the other hospital left her in shock and disbelief. After all, she had lost her best chance to be Isaac¡¯s wife! Eventually, she managed to gather hersell, only to arrive at work today and see Isaac visiting Central Hospital. She was under the impression that Isaac had a change of heart and came looking for her, but just as she was about to call out to him in delight, he was already striding toward the patients¡¯ wards. She hence followed him, only to find out that Irene was admitted there, and that he was here to visit Irene. Her knuckles balled into fists! Isaac obviously believed that she was the woman from that night. So why was he here with Irene? What right did she have to be Mrs. Jefferson? It was something she wanted so dearly, but that woman took it without effort. It was only natural that she felt indignant, jealous, and furious! What would it take for Isaac to hate Irene, and to divorce her? Perhaps he had to see Irene hooking up with other men, so that she would have a chance? Since she had seeded in tricking Irene and performed amniocentesis against her will, she would seed again and make Isaac hate her. But now that they were total enemies, the methods she used before would not work¡­ As such, she came up with something else. Stepping inside Irene¡¯s ward, she put on a high-and-mighty look and snapped, ¡°Irene Spencer! You are an intern here-why are you lounging around in a ward? I¡¯ll have the chief fire you, believe it!¡± Her attempts at ckmailing utterly failed, however. In fact, Irene was looking at her like she was an idiot. ¡°Weren¡¯t you aware that I¡¯ve already resigned?¡± She had long since made up her mind to run away, which was why she had resigned from her internship. Her pregnancy also meant she needed time to rest and recuperate, so she had no time or strength to spare for anything else. Whitney was certainly oblivious about that point, and it was her defeat the instant she stepped inside. All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. Her frustrations were piling, After all, she was working under the impression that for Irene, this internship was a necessary path to be a military doctor, which in turn was her dream job. Naturally, there was no way she could have expected Irene to simply up and quit, meaning that her attempts to harass her with her authority was utterly futile. Nheless, she asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you want to be a doctor?¡± Irene held Whitney gaze, her expression cooling at the sight of Whitney clearly repressing her rage. ¡°My husband will pay for everything even if I don¡¯t work, and I¡¯m sure you know who my husband is, don¡¯t you?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 63 The Runaway Groom Chapter 63 Chapter 63 Irene knew that Whitney desired Isaac, and was therefore using him to upset her. Unsurprisingly, all of Whitney¡¯s repressed rage erupted right then. Lunging forward, she grabbed Irene¡¯s neck while shrieking, ¡°Die! You¡¯ve stolen everything from me, but Isaac will be mine once you¡¯re dead!¡± Irene just wanted to upset her-her body was in no condition for fisticuffs at the moment. ¡°Do you think Isaac would like to see you acting crazy like this, Whitney? Men prefer gentle women, not fishwives.¡± Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. Her words more or less worked, because Whitney cared too much about what Isaac thought of her. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson¡­¡± Mrs. Watson happened to arrive with lunch then, and when she saw Whitney trying to hurt Irene, she promptly dropped everything and ran up to them, pulling Whitney away while snapping, ¡°Do you know who she is? How dare you do this to her? You will get it once I tell Mr. Jefferson!¡± Whitney¡¯s face fell as she looked at Mrs. Watson¨Cthe old maid would be calling her Mrs. Jefferson if not for Irene! Irene had taken away everything that was rightfully hers! After all, Isaac was still convinced that she was with him that night! ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this, Irene!¡± she snarled. Irene¡¯s expression, however, was icy. If Whitney had not performed amniocentesis on her, her other child might have been as brave and strong as his twin¡­ and would never have been lost because of some flesh wound! The miscarriage had happened because the amniocentesis maimed that fetus before she was assaulted! That was why Irene would not let Whitney get away with her crimes! ¡°I could say the same to you.¡± Alter Whitney left, Mrs. Watson approached her to check on her. ¡°Are you hurt, Mrs. Jeffersoni?¡± Trene shook her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m fine.¡± Still, Mrs. Watson was fuming. ¡°Who was that woman? Is she even in her right mind? We have to call Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± ¡°No, you mustn¡¯t tell him.¡± Irene promptly interrupted her. Whitney was upset and trying to mess with her, because she felt the same way Irene did after her miscarriage. Isaac did say that Whitney¡¯s child was lost in that car ident, which was something she should thank Ricky for. After all, both Isaac and Whitney should suffer the pain of losing their child too! ¡°Why not, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± Mrs. Watson could not understand, but she was not aware of the nature of Irene and Isaac¡¯s marriage. Irene, however, believed that Whitney had every reason to overreact after recently losing her child, and she would no doubt have Isaac¡¯s understanding. So what good woulde of telling him? ¡°Just watch out, and don¡¯t let her touch the food you¡¯ve brought,¡± she told Mrs. Watson. Mrs. Watson nodded. ¡°Of course.¡± Over the next three days, Irene was exceedingly cautious and could not sleep well at night at all, worried that Whitney woulde to mess with her. She decided to get discharged-after staying over ten days here, she had more or less fully recovered. When Zachary came to visit in the evening, she told him as much. ¡°I¡¯ll handle the proceedings tomorrow morning,¡± Zachary replied. Irene nodded, and Zachary suddenly wanted to ask her what she would do since Isaac was refusing to divorce her. Still, he refrained and instead asked, ¡°What are you going to do, now that you¡¯ve resigned?¡± Irene lowered her eyes. ¡°I haven¡¯t thought about it.¡± Zachary, however, could tell that she clearly had a n but was not telling him. As such, he did not try to press her and simply got up. ¡°I¡¯ll be going now.¡± Isaac arrived just then, and seeing that Zachary was there, he asked, ¡°Can she get discharged now?¡± Zachary nced at Irene and replied, ¡°Oh, Irene? She¡¯s actually getting discharged tomorrow.¡± Isaac frowned. Irene? Why did it upset him to hear that? He never called her that himself! Zachary saw Isaac¡¯s gaze turn cool, but could not understand-was it something he said? ¡°I¡¯m leaving if there¡¯s nothing else,¡± he said, to avoid upsetting Isaac again. Walking over and nting-himself on the couch, Isaac sternly ordered Irene, ¡°I¡¯m thirsty. Get me a ss of water.¡± Hismanding tone was honestly despicable, but Irene had no choice but to obey. She did as she was told, and after having two sips, his lips curled upwards in a grin. ¡°Are you aware, Irene Spencer?¡± ¡°Of what?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 64 The Runaway Groom Chapter 64 Chapter 64 Irene knew that Isaac was up to no good even as she watched him. And just as expected, he chuckled and said, ¡°I love it when you suffer.¡± She was left speechless for a while, but stayed calm as she retorted, ¡°Your interests are so weird that those who didn¡¯t know beforehand would think you¡¯re nuts.¡± With those words, she sat on her bed-she was much better now, and had gotten tired after going through some physiotherapy for the day. She then nced at the clock on the wall and saw that it was already nine, and asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you leaving?¡¯ However, the more eager she was to make him leave, the more reluctant Isaac was to do so. ¡°Wherever you¡¯ll go, I¡¯ll be there,¡± he said as he leaned against his couchzily. Irene simply ignored him andy down on her bed, when Isaac said, ¡°I¡¯ll be sleeping with you here tonight.¡± Ignoring him again, she pulled her nket to keep herself tightly enveloped, as if afraid that he woulde to take it away from her. Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. Isaac smiled at her reaction in amusement, finding it rather adorable just then. He started to tug at his own cor, suddenly finding the room rather hot¡­ But it was already autumn, and the ward was air-conditioned. It was not supposed to be hot here at night. In fact, he was starting to get restless as well, just before his gaze turned blurry. He frowned. Having lived the life he led, he could tell that his body was not in its right state given the abrupt symptoms. ¡°Irene Spencer¡­¡± he growled, his voice suddenly hoarse. ¡°Did you spike my drink?¡± Irene simply thought that he was trying to start a fight, and therefore did not answer. It left Isaac gritting his teeth-what the hell was she ying at?! He promptly sprang to his feet and strode to her bed, but his gait was more a wobble than anything else. Whatever it was, it was no different from a gut punch! At the same time, a terrible fire spread across him as if alive, pushing toward his head. Once he reached Irene, he pulled off her nket and snapped, ¡°You really can¡¯t live without men, can you? Resorting to something as underhanded as drugging them?!¡± Irene finally opened her eyes and red at him. ¡°What are you talking about? What drug?¡± ¡°Not going to admit it, huh?¡± Isaac growled, but he was not angry at all¨Che actually loved her, and now that he was drugged anyway, he had cause to get intimate with her. And when he was done, he could simply say that it was the drugs. His Adam¡¯s apple bobbing then, he arched his body as he leaned toward her, his eyes looking straight into hers as he spoke with a quiet, alluring voice. ¡°Just tell me you love me¡­ It¡¯s not like I¡¯m unwilling to perform the duties of a husband.¡± That was when Irene finally realized that something was wrong when she saw that his face was flushed in crimson. However, when she tried to get up, Isaac put a hand over her shoulder and kept her pinned in ce. At the same time, Whitney arrived at the door with a man. Naturally, she was the one who had spiked the water, and she even brought a man, intent on capturing a video of Irene going at it with a man, so she would have evidence of Irene¡¯s adultery to show Isaac. He would definitely divorce Irene after that, and she would be able to rise as the new Mrs. Jefferson. However, as she quietly opened the door to let the man in, Irene spotted her and immediately understood what was happening. She nced at the ss on the table which Isaac drank from-Mrs. Watson had brought the water to the hospital, but Whitney had obviously spiked it, which exined Isaac¡¯s behavior. There was really nothing she would not dost time, she knocked her out to perform amniocentesis on her, and now, she spiked her drink. Her heinous nature was certainly unquestionable! Nheless, she quickly realized what she should be doing. Turning resistance into seduction right then, she asked Isaac alluringly, ¡°We¡¯re in the hospital right now¡­ Shall we do this elsewhere instead?¡± Isaac wanted nothing less than to get down to business immediately. Now that Irene proved willing, his restraint swiftly vaporized as he growled, ¡°So¡­ We¡¯re really doing this?¡± ¡°Indeed we are,¡± she replied, ncing at the door as she spoke. Whitney had wanted to drug Irene, but she could tell right then that Isaac was the victim instead. How could she bear with the idea that her n to split them apart was getting them frisky instead?! She promptly shoved the door wide open! The Runaway Groom Chapter 65 The Runaway Groom Chapter 65 Chapter 65 Whitney could not care less right then-she must stop Irene from getting it on with Isaac! Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. However, when the door was abruptly opened, Isaac¡¯s expression turned to a glower and he sprang to his feet. ring at the intruders, he bellowed, ¡°Who let you in here?!¡± His glower turned even more fearsome when he saw that it was Whitney! Still, Whitney was quick enough to respond in time. ¡°I was going to visit Irene¡­¡± Irene, however, was certainly aware that Whitney was here to destroy her. Sitting up in bed, she deliberately and intimately wrapped her arms around Isaac from behind. Despite his considerable height, she was on her bed, allowing her chin enough leverage to rest on Isaac¡¯s shoulder. Smiling at Whitney, she asked, ¡°You¡¯re visiting me? For what?¡± Despite her smugness, she was praying inwardly that Isaac would not push her away right then. However, Isaac proved to be at once cooperative and epting. He loved Irene being this close to him, and the scent wafting from her body. Whitney¡¯s face was virtually darkened from sheer rage at that point, but there was no way she could throw a fit when Isaac was standing right in front of her. Nheless, she forced herself to smile. ¡°I was on the night shift, and I was here for room inspection. I also thought I could check on Irene and see if there¡¯s anything she needs.¡± Ireneughed. ¡°How nice of you!¡± She then turned toward the man at the door, and saw that he was both ugly and bald. Whitney was truly ruthless! If she had drunk that water instead, and that man had been in this ward¡­ she did not. even want to think about what would have inevitably happened. With that in mind, her gaze turned icy. Still, she searched her memory and remembered that Isaac was being neutral toward Whitney right now¡­ Was it because they had inadvertently stumbled upon Whitney messing around with another man? And since it was obvious Whitney was trying to set her up again, there was no reason for her to hold back! ¡°Oh, who¡¯s this? Could he be your boyfriend? Honestly, you¡¯re so popr with men¡­ Hooking up with them left and right even if they¡¯re ugly, or do you need sses to fix your eyesight?¡± ¡°What are you talking about? Don¡¯t you try to nder me!¡± Whitney cried, stopping short of jumping at her and cursing. Then, quickly turning to Isaac, she exined, ¡°Please don¡¯t misunderstand ¨C he¡¯s just a patient, not my boyfriend. In fact, I never had a boyfriend!¡± Irene promptly turned towards Isaac by the time Whitney was finished, since she and Isaac had both seen evidence to the contrary. Now that Whitney was denying that, what would Isaac think? Naturally, Isaac¡¯s expression turned sinister! At the same time, Irene understood why his attitude toward Whitney was constantly changing-he must not have been aware that Whitney had a boyfriend when they started going out! After he found out, he felt disdain toward her, but was also unable to let go of past sentiment. That was why he had that hot and cold attitude toward Whitney. Still, given present circumstances, Irene simply added fuel to the fire. ¡°Who was that boy who chased you around in med school¡­ Chad Ross, was it? Didn¡¯t you agree to date him?¡± Things were certainly spiraling out of control for Whitney-her attempt to ensnare Irene was foiled, and she was now instead the target in the crosshairs. Her spite was certainly killing her! ¡°What, don¡¯t you remember how many boys were chasing me back then? Did you really think I could say yes to everyone?¡± ¡°Oh¡­¡± Irene murmured, deliberately letting her voice trail off because Isaac clearly knew better. And yet, Whitney was fervently denying everything, which would only make Isaac question her character even more. That was what Irene was going for-Whitney was hopelessly infatuated with Isaac, but by driving a wedge between them, she would have avenged her lost child. ¡°Get out!¡± Isaac bellowed right then. Whitney bit her lip, but pleaded, ¡°Isaac¡­¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you never to use my name?!¡± Isaac¡¯s eyes shed with inconsble rage just then. With that, Whitney did not dare to say another word, and reluctantly left the ward. Once she was out of sight, Irene began to pull her arms away from Isaac, but that was when Isaac caught her wrists and asked, ¡°Are you happy now?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 66 The Runaway Groom Chapter 66 Chapter 66 ¡°You mean, for causing trouble in paradise?¡± Irene did not deny it. ¡°Of course I am.¡± Yes, she could never get a read on the actual rtionship between Isaac and Whitney, but she was not bothered. All she needed to know was that Whitney was head over heels for Isaac, and the fact that she was staying around Isaac would piss Whitney off. Knowing that alone was enough. On the other hand, Isaac loved her honestly, and he swiftly wrapped his arms around. her and pinned her against the bed. Irene panicked right then, and her speech turned to a stammer. ¡°W-What are you doing? This is the hospital! You¡¯re going to be caught in a scandal if anyone sees you!¡± Isaac grinned. ¡°Are you saying that we can do it anywhere but the hospital?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what I mean!¡± Irene promptly denied it-in fact, she would never do it with him wherever they were! Everything she said just now was just to upset Whitney! On the other hand, Isaac was looking with eyes ring with desire, but he was restraining himself. Though the drugs were in effect within his body, he did notpletely lose his rationality he was actually using it as an excuse to breathe in her scent! As for Irene, she could tell from his hoarse voice that his throat was dry and the drugs. were messing him up. ¡°You¡¯re not going to do it with a woman who had another man before, are you?¡± She had long since observed that Isaac was a prideful man. His ego would not suffer any disgrace, and he was as demanding toward himself as he was toward his other half. That much was obvious from how he treated Whitney-the instant he realized he had. been deceived and that she was messing around with another man, she was abandoned immediately. Naturally, her words left Isaac pausing, and he closed his eyes for a moment to hide his troubled gaze. Then, his tone became icy. ¡°You don¡¯t have to keep reminding me that your body is filthy.¡± Abruptly rising to his feet, he left the ward. Outside, Whitney had not actually left, and she naturally breathed a long sigh of relief when she saw Isaac step out. At the same time, she realized that she had a spark of hope-Isaac was drugged, and she believed herself to be beautiful. If she disyed her womanly wiles right now, she would definitely be able to entice Isaac. Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Assuming a gait as if she was on a catwalk, she approached him and said, ¡°Let me drive you home.¡± Isaac shot her an ice-cold re right then. ¡°Whitney Cox, when I decided against holding you responsible for faking your pregnancy, I was already at the limit of my mercy. After what you did tonight, there are no more chances for you now-even after that night we shared.¡± With that, he strode off, leaving Irene in the ward. She heard everything Isaac was saying at the doorway. Whitney was actually trying to deceive Isaac by faking her pregnancy? She pursed her lips-it was apparent how much Whitney wanted to take her ce, only for everything to turn out to be the exact opposite of what she wanted. Now that Isaac knew, there was no way they could be in a rtionship, and he basically just dered they were breaking up. Walking to the door, she found Whitney, whose face was alternating with a myriad of expressions. Likewise, Whitney saw her-it was her most miserable moment, seen by her worst enemy. Humiliation turning to rage right then, she snapped, ¡°What are you looking at?! I¡¯ll dig your eyes out of those sockets!¡± Irene simply smiled and said nothing. It was barenaked contempt, and it left Whitney shaking with rage, and she jumped toward Irene, ready to tear her pretty cheeks apart! But before she could reach Irene, Irene warned her, ¡°There are cameras here. Touch me, and I¡¯ll send the footage to Isaac.¡± Whitney utterly lost it then, and shrieked loudly without control! Irene simply leaned against the door, watching without a care. It was tremendously cathartic to see Whitney, who was head over heels for Isaac, having all her affection spurned! The Runaway Groom Chapter 67 The Runaway Groom Chapter 67 Chapter 67 Irene stroked her belly, and in her mind, she told her lost child, ¡®See? The one who hurt you is receiving her just deserts.¡¯ Closing the door behind herself, she sat on her bed and nced at the ss of water Isaac drank. Ever since Whitney showed up, she never touched any food made by the hospital, and only stuck to the food Mrs. Watson brought. Whitney had spiked her drink, but it somehow ended up with Isaac drinking it-taking the bullet for her, figuratively. Whipping out her phone, she called Zachary and told him about Isaac¡¯s condition. ¡°If pushes to shove, prescribe him something¡­ or get him a woman.¡± Since Whitney was obviously bent on making it count, she would have used something with a high dosage. Furthermore, Isaac also appeared at his wit¡¯s end. Her words, however, left Zachary speechless for a long while, though he eventually said, ¡°Okay.¡± Irene hung up, but for some reason, could not fall asleep, ending up tossing and turning in bed for the rest of the night. Meanwhile, Zachary moved quickly and actually found Isaac a woman. ¡°Irene told me that you were drugged, and you¡¯d get stressed terribly if you have no relief. That¡¯s why she suggested that I bring you a woman-but don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s very clean¡­¡± Isaac was sitting on the couch. His cheeks were unusually red, and locks of hair were dangling before his head and blocking his dark, turbid gaze. He had already unbuttoned his shirt, baring his distinct corbones and muscr chest as he growled, ¡°What did you say? Irene Spencer put you up to this?¡± Zachary nodded. ¡°Of course. How else could I have found out that you were drugged? She called me, and she¡¯s worried that you were holding it in so much you would hurt your health.¡± Hah! Isaac clenched his fist right then, his knuckles cracking audibly! This was how she expressed lier concerns? By finding him another woman?! That ursed woman! If she was actually worried, she could just do it herself! This was so frustrating! Panting heavily, Isaac felt a fire ring within his chest, almost suffocating him because he could not vent it! Kicking away the table in front of him, he bellowed, ¡°Fuck off! I don¡¯t need women!¡± Zachary was startled-he had never seen Isaac getting so angry, even cursing so vulgarly. Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. He quickly gestured for the woman to leave, while gingerly saying, ¡°If you¡¯re really feeling terrible, there are other options: sedatives, for example Isaac shot him a re. ¡°Get out!¡± This time, Zachary was actually confused. ¡°Come on, we¡¯re just concerned.¡± ¡°Concerned?¡± Isaacughed coldly. ¡°She won¡¯t test my patience if she really cared!¡± What a hypocrite! ¡± Zachary drew a nk for a while-it took him a while to realize that Isaac was talking about Irene. Stan did tell him before that Isaac had feelings for Irene¡­ Could it possibly be true? Blinking, he asked, ¡°Are you actually in love with Irene Spencer?¡± Isaac snorted in disdain. ¡°Why would I be?¡± ¡°Guess so,¡± Zachary replied. His response was calcted, however it was not as if Irene was a terrible woman who deserved no affection, but she was pregnant with someone else¡¯s child. Would Isaac be magnanimous enough to be the stepfather of somebody else¡¯s child? Zachary knew that he certainly would not. As such, heunched a subtle jibe, attempting to have Isaac give up on Irene as soon as he could. On the other hand, Isaac¡¯s whole body had already been burning, and his own outburst only made him even more irritable. As he rose to his feet, Zachary suggested, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to take medicine or getid, you could try a cold shower. That just might help.¡± Isaac ignored him, though he took a cold bath soon after returning to his mansion. Early next morning, Irene got discharged, but someone intercepted her just as she was about to leave the hospital! The Runaway Groom Chapter 68 The Runaway Groom Chapter 68 Chapter 68 It was Samantha. Before this, Lionel hade to ask Irene so that she could speak with Isaac, and to persuade him to be lenient on Ricky. Irene, however, refused to help-which meant Samantha¡¯s son was going to prison. Even if he would not be serving a long sentence, he would have a criminal record, and his career options would be limited even if hepleted his studies. Naturally, she was at once annoyed and furious, and hated Irene for not helping, believing her to be callous. That was why Samantha showed up at the hospital-she would make a scene and humiliate Irene! Having gathered journalists at the scene, she dropped to her knees in her campaign to get Irene med-so that everyone would think of Irene as an ingrate who refused to help her brother. As she cried, sheined, ¡°Ricky is your brother! Why do you refuse to help him?! Do you have a conscience?! He¡¯s your only brother¡­¡± She bawled so loudly that those who did not know would think that she suffered a great injustice. Moreover, since there were a lot of people near the hospital entrance, a crowd soon gathered to enjoy the drama. Without knowing the full picture, the sight of an older woman kneeling in front of a younger woman was enough to win everyone¡¯s sympathy. Moreover, Samantha was good enough an actress to swiftly direct all hostility toward Irene. As everyone began to whisper and criticize, some of the gullible heroes of justice began to scold Irene. ¡°How could you be so unreasonable? Letting your mother kneel and beg? How could you be so young but so heartless?¡± Samantha promptly joined in, ¡°Someone is bullying her brother, and she could have helped! But she refused! And she still calls herself a sister!¡± Irene watched coldly as Samantha continued her antics. If she wanted to kneel, she could do that as much as she wanted to-Irene just had to leave. Nheless, as she tried to do that, Samantha promptly lunged at her and wrapped herself around her foot, crying relentlessly, ¡°Say something! Are you going to help Ricky?!¡± Even though Samantha was perfectly aware that Ricky had made a mistake and as such must be punished by thew, she believed that the incident could have been resolved out of court. T If Isaac did not press charges, he had enough influence to expunge the entire incident from all records¨C but only if Irene was willing to ask Isaac. As long as she did that, Ricky would still have hope. Nheless, Irene snapped coldly, ¡°It¡¯s his own fault!¡± Samantha promptly retorted, ¡°He¡¯s your brother!¡± Irene hated that the most, and so eximed loudly, ¡°You¡¯re just my father¡¯s mistress and a homewrecker! Your children were never rted to me!¡± She tried to speak as loud as she could, because there was no one on earth who would side with mistresses or homewreckers. Though some of the bystanders began to shift to Irene¡¯s side, Samantha promptly shot back, ¡°How could you lie about me like that?! You¡¯re the one who¡¯s refusing to help! You really are as heinous and as ungrateful as your father said! Selfish, callous, and ingrate-yes, that¡¯s what you are!¡± Samantha rambled on, as if she was just passing a message from Lionel. In the end, Lionel would always be Irene¡¯s biological father, and Samantha knew that Irene would not stay immune after learning that her father said such things about her. U11 That in turn allowed Samantha to drive them further apart! All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. To no surprise, Irene¡¯s heart almost stopped when she heard what Lionel said about her. So that was what he thought of her? The change in her expression was a sign to Samantha that her lies had taken effect, so she went even further and said, ¡°After you refused to help, your father started breaking everything at home, and was shouting how much he regretted not strangling you at your crib! That he should never have let you live!¡± Irene¡¯s hands were at her sides, twitching ever so slightly. Still, she soon gathered herself, her gaze turning even colder then. At the same time, Zachary arrived for work. When he saw what happened, he promptly called in hospital security to order the crowd to disperse. Walking up to Irene, he told her, ¡°Alright, dispersed! Nothing to see here-do what you¡¯ve come to do!¡± With that, he started to leave while shielding Irene. The Runaway Groom Chapter 69 The Runaway Groom Chapter 69 Chapter 69 Samantha tried to reach for Irene again, but Zachary stopped her and warned , ¡°Mess around again, and I¡¯m calling the cops!¡± That finally kept the woman in line. Leading Irene to his car, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on here? I told you I¡¯d help you get discharged. Why were you trying to leave early?¡± Irene kept her head down. ¡°I just felt like it.¡± ¡°Want me to drive you home?¡± he asked. Irene nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± Neither of them spoke before they reached the mansion. . When they reached the front gates and Zachary stopped his car, he hesitated for a moment before telling Irene, ¡°I got Isaac a woman like you¡¯d suggestedst night, but he did not even touch her.¡± Irene suddenly looked up, slightly surprised and cheering up without knowing it herself. Nheless, she kept her indifferent expression. ¡°Really? Zachary nodded. ¡°Of course. Would I lie to you?¡± Irene naturally believed him. Then, as she alighted, he suddenly called out to her again. ¡°Irene¡­¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. ¡°Yeah?¡± She turned around. Holding her gaze for a while, Zachary then asked, ¡°Has Lulu ever contacted you since?¡± Irene suddenly avoided his gaze. ¡°¡­No.¡± She was not lying to Zachary, but Lulu Adams had forbidden Irene from telling Zachary about where she had gone. Lulu was Irene¡¯s senior in medical school, being in Zachary¡¯s year and the object of his affection. They were the most admired sweethearts on campus, but broke upter on, with Lulu leaving the city soon after. Zachary had been looking for her ever since. Now, his expression turned mournful even as he said, ¡± Please tell me if she does reach out. I think I want a reason even if I¡¯d agree to breaking up with her, instead of parting ways without a word.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± She could not help feeling guilty toward Zachary just then, but she had promised Lulu that she would not breathe a word. Entering the mansion , she found that Mrs. Watson had packed up several food containers and was preparing to head to the hospital, unaware that Irene was getting discharged today. Still, she was happy to see Irene return. ¡°Wee back, Mrs. Jefferson!¡± Irene nodded as Mrs. Watson came to help her inside. At the same time, Isaac came downstairs, and did not look her way after he saw her return, let alone say a word to her. After all, he still remembered her suggesting to Zachary to get him a woman. What did she take him for? Did she think he would kiss just any woman thrown his way? On the other hand, Irene could tell that he was upset, but was unaware of the reason. After he finally left, she asked Mrs. Watson, ¡°What¡¯s with him? Who got him upset?¡± III Mrs. Watson shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± ¨C Irene wondered then if it was aboutst night, but if he was, should he not be angry at Whitney instead? Whitney was the one who deceived him, and her attempt to drug Irene missed and got Isaac instead. Zachary also mentioned that Isaac did not touch the woman he brought for him¡­ so it must have been a grueling night. In the end, Whitney was the reason it had happened in the first ce¡­ so he was probably upset at her, was he not? Naturally , Irene did not dwell on it since she was never going to reach an answer. As afternoon arrived, she was sprawled in front of herptop and answering patient consultations online. That was when Mrs. Watson dashed upstairs urgently, yelping, ¡°Mrs. Jefferson! This is horrible-look!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 70 The Runaway Groom Chapter 70 Chapter 70 Mrs. Watson had always been calm andposed ¡ª why was she panicking out of the blue? Irene quickly put aside her work and asked, ¡°What¡®s wrong, Mrs. Watson?¡± Mrs. Watson held out her phone in front of her. ¡°Here, take a look.¡± Irene nced at the screen and saw that it was a video of the little piece of theater that Samantha put together at Central Hospital this morning. Someone has uploaded it online, but it was clipped and framed in a way that portrayed Ire ne as the viiness. She did not need imagination to tell who was responsible ¨C Samantha herself had done all that this morning solely for this! Withworking being as advanced as it is, it is very convenient to get someone med online if one is willing to pay enough for traffic. After all,izens are rarely smart and believe whatever they see, never once trying to uncover the truth for themselves. In fact, the worst ones are so warped in world view and character that they could drive a perfectly nice person over the edge! She remembered a simr case that made the news recently, where a girl had entrusted a courier for th e delivery of some food to her father. The girl tried to tip the courier for his help, but the courier refused, insisting that he was just happy to help. Still, the girl felt guilty and grateful , so she sent him fifty dors worth of gift cards. That, however, left her med byizens for giving too little. The courier had been altruistic, while the girl was conveying her gratitude, only for her to suffer such ignominy. Naturally, unable to bear the widespread condemnation, the girlmitted suicide. It was obvious from that case alone thatizens could kill without doing anything physical , making the m far more horrific than the hangman! And this was ultimately Samantha¡®s goal¨C to makeizens me Irene to death. Irene, however, was not that narrow¨Cminded that she would decide to end herself over some petty remarks. Instead, she was going to cherish herself more. Meanwhile, Mrs. Watson was grumbling, ¡°Who are these people? This is ridiculous! How could they say such horrible things ? Telling people to die without knowing them?¡± As everyment beneath the video was an one¨C sided outrage campaign against Irene, the mere sight of it angered Mrs. Watson. i On the other hand, Irene took a moment to calm herself before smiling at Mrs. Watson. ¡°Don¡®t worry¨C none of it is real anyway, and I¡®ve not done anything wrong. As long as I know what actually happened and hold a clear conscience, there is nothing to fear.¡± She would not get overly concerned over unnecessary matters for the sake of her child, and unwittingly stroked her own belly. ¡°But¡­¡± Mrs. Watson still appeared indignant when she noticed what Irene was doing, and asked, ¡°Are you having a stomach ache, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± ¡°No, I¡®m not.¡± Irene quickly stopped touching herself. Nheless, Mrs. Watson still appeared suspicious.¡± Well, I think I¡®m seeing a little belly there¡­ You¡¯ve been eating a lottely, haven¡®t you? Though your ch eeks and arms hadn¡®t changed much.¡± ¨C ¡°Well, fat does gather in the stomach first,¡± Irene exined hastily, and asked, ¡°By the way, can I ask you for a favor?¡± Mrs. Watson nodded. ¡°Of course. Just say the word.¡± Irene gathered the clothes she wanted to bring with her when she ran away, and handed everything to Mrs. Watson. ¡°Please take all these to the cleaners.¡± ¡°All of it?¡± Mrs. Watson eximed in surprise. Irene nodded¨Cshe felt much better now, and must find an opening to escape. All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. If she allowed things to drag on, her belly would start to swell and there would be no hiding the truth. Of course, she must do things quietly and without leaving traces, so that no one could find her. Mrs. Watson started to pick up all her clothing then, and did not forget to remind Irene before leaving, ¡°D stuff on the inte. You would just get upset.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°I know.¡± She thought to herself then that Mrs. Watson was a genuinely good person, and it was nice to have someone to be sinc there was anything Irene was reluctant to part with from this ce, it was her. She sighed lengthily at the thought. When Mrs. Watson returned, she informed Irene that since she had sent in a bulk load ofundry, it would take around a week before everything would be sent back. ¡°It¡®s fine,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I¡®m in no hurry anyway.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 71 The Runaway Groom Chapter 71 Chapter 71 Isaac did not return home that night, but Irene thought nothing of it. Without a job, she lounged around in the mansion, taking her time to nurture her body while working part-time as an online medical consultant. Though she never left the house, she took no notice of the scandal Samantha fabricated, let alone find out how far things had gone. When Isaac did not return over the next few days, Irene decided that this was the best chance to run away, and so told Mrs. Watson, ¡°Can you give me the check for the cleaners? I¡¯ll pick up theundry.¡± ¡°Oh, I can get it for you!¡± Mrs. Watson suggested. ¡°Actually, I want to leave the house for a while too.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Picking up theundry afterward is just convenient.¡± In reality, she would leave once she picked up herundry. As Mrs. Watson passed her the check, she looked at Mrs. Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org. Watson for a while before reaching out to give her a hug, saying, ¡°I¡¯m going to miss you, Mrs. Watson.¡± Mrs. Watsonughed. ¡°What are you on about, silly? It¡¯s not like we won¡¯t see each other again.¡± Irene could not say anything to that, and so simply smiled before leaving. She had just reached the cleaners when her phone rang, and she stayed outside to answer it. ¡°Irene? Do you remember me?¡± Irene had to search her memory for a while before finding a name. ¡°Ms. Lang.¡± ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. As you know, my husband owns apany researching pharmaceutical products, and they are celebrating theirtest breakthrough with a banquet tonight. I had a dancing instructor who would be performing a solo dance tonight, but she got injured and couldn¡¯t take the stage. That¡¯s when I remembered you, and you¡¯re certainly skilled enough for that¡­¡± ¡°Actually¡­¡± Irene quickly interrupted, ¡°I can¡¯t perform either.¡± She was pregnant, and dancing in heels was a no go. Moreover, Latin dance attire was skimpy and tight on the spots it covered, which would reveal her swelling belly. Ms. Lang became silent. ¡°I see¡­¡± ¡°Sorry,¡± Irene quickly added. ¡°Actually, I think you could have a piano recital instead¡ª I happened to see how well you yed for the students during one of your sses. To tell the truth, I¡¯m not trying to push this on you, but we¡¯re really one short and the schedule has been fixed. Every other instructor in the studio has their own programs, too.¡± Ms. Lang was asking earnestly, and Irene turned to nce at theundromat just then. It would have surely been difficult for Ms. Lang¡¯s husband to research that anti-cancer medication, and their sess was certainly worth celebrating. Moreover, she could afford to wait another night. ¡°Very well.¡± ¡°Thank you!¡± Ms. Lang eximed happily. ¡°I¡¯ll make it worth your while.¡± Irene was not concerned if she did not profit from this, however-she did this mainly because Ms. Lang and her husband were good people. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll see you at eight tonight. The venue is No. 109, Dorime Pharmaceuticals, Cura Route.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied, and then asked, ¡°Do I have to prepare anything else?¡± ¡°No, of course not,¡± Ms. Lang replied. ¡°Your presence is more than enough.¡± With that, Irene left theundromat. Since she was out anyway, she took a stroll instead of heading home immediately. Then, she noticed that some of the people around her were pointing and gesturing at her, so she had to head 5/6 back to the mansion-one must admit that the inte was certainly a tremendous influence in today¡¯s world! Samantha¡¯s drama had certainly damaged her reputation so thoroughly that she was being picked out even on the streets. When Mrs. Watson found her returning empty-handed, she asked, ¡°Where¡¯s theundry?¡± ¡°There¡¯s a few that weren¡¯t done yet,¡± Irene smiled in reply. ¡°I¡¯ll pick them upter.¡± She arrived punctually at the designated venue. Ms. Lang had already prepared an exquisite gown for her. It looked a little like a wedding dress with itsyered frills,pletely concealing her stomach while entuating everything that made her beautiful: her thin neck, her beautiful corbones, and slim arms. While she was backstage, the makeup artist helped her put on light makeup-she was a natural beauty, and too much makeup would instead ruin her appearance. Ms. Lang then told her that she will be the first to perform on stage. 4.*** They were supposed to start with a dance number, but had to change because of the sudden change. The host began with a motivating speech, followed by a word from the CEO before the banquet formally began. As Irene slowly headed onstage, Mark Wickers ¡ª seated beside Isaac beneath the stage-asked the man, ¡°Mr. Jefferson, do you happen to remember Ms. Spencer?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 72 The Runaway Groom Chapter 72 Chapter 72 Isaac had initially been indifferent toward the entire event, but looked upstage when Mark prompted him. Beneath the chandelier, a gorgeous figure sat elegantly before the piano. He raised his brow in surprise. To think that Irene would show up at a ce like this¡­ and to think that she could y the piano! ¡°Ms. Spencer is really multi-talented,¡± Mark added. ¡°My wife¡¯s been telling me that she is a fine dancer too.¡± At the same time, Isaac¡¯s gaze was glued to the stage. As Irene ced her long, thin fingers gently atop the piano keys, she seemed to rx her entire body. Her fingertips pressed down ever so slightly, and with the ring of the first key, aforting rhythm quickly followed with perfect harmony¡­ Mark was not well-versed with the piano, but he was eager to share his delight with Isaac. ¡°I¡¯ve really worked so hard to develop the medicine, and things would not have been done so quickly if not for the huge investment you put into theter phases!¡± Naturally, Isaac was in attendance because he was an investor in Dorime Pharmaceuticals, owning both a vote. andpany shares. ¡°There will be further discussions on the pricing of our anti-cancer medicine¡­ I wonder if you can make some time the day after tomorrow?¡± Isaac, however, had no interest in his ramblings ¡ªboth his heart and eyes were fixed on the stage. While Mark could not tell, Isaac knew that Irene was ying Variations on the Kanon, which happens to fit the night¡¯s event. The rhythm almost seemed bewitching, as if telling the audience that nothing was impossible-that perseverance would eventually realize dreams. It was also the first time Isaac was looking directly at her, and he must admit that she was talented. She was certainly not just a pretty face¨Cshe was a doctor, a dancer, and a pianist. If Isaac was not listening with his own ears, he would not have believed she could y the piano so immactely. Soon, however, her performance was over, and the audience apuded her warmly¡­ though there were not that many who truly enjoyed it, since the advanced understanding of music might require a better mind. Still, there was a man in sses who pped especially enthusiastically for Irene, seemingly because he understood her performance. He then approached Mark and asked, ¡°Hey boss, is the pianist one of the dance instructors at your wife¡¯s studio? Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. 11 ¡°She used to be, but she left,¡± Mark replied. ¡°She just came by today as a stand-in.¡± ¡°Does she have a boyfriend?¡± The man in sses then pressed. Isaac turned to the man right then, and his expression darkened¡ªthe man was adjusting his sses, and he clearly looked interested in Irene. Before Mark could answer, however, Isaac said, ¡°She¡¯s married.¡± Mark was shocked. ¡°Could you have been mistaken, Mr. Jefferson? She told my wife that she did not have a boyfriend when she asked¡­ So how could she be married? || On the other hand, the man in sses appeared utterly infatuated. ¡°She¡¯s not only beautiful¡­ but she¡¯s also perfect with the piano.¡± Then, he straightened himself, seemingly ready to head backstage and ask Irene for her number. As a man himself, Isaac knew very well what the man was nning. He sprang to his feet. ¡°Something came up. I¡¯m leaving.¡± ¡°But we¡¯re just starting¡­¡± Mark began, and abruptly noticed the icy look on Isaac¡¯s face, and promptly stopped himself. ¡°I will walk you out.¡± ¡°Is that man with sses an employee of yours?¡± Isaac asked as they headed outside. ¡°He¡¯s a technician,¡± Mark replied. ¡°He graduated with honors, and I had to poach him with a high sry from another pharmaceuticalpany. In the research effort, he-¡± ¡°That¡¯s enough,¡± Isaac growled. He was not actually in the mood to listen. At the same time, Mark also realized that he had been exceedingly talkative because of the day¡¯s excitements, and hence stayed silent. As Isaac stepped out of the building, he called Zachary and asked for Irene¡¯s number, before calling her from his car. Irene changed out of her gown and stepped out of the dressing room when a man in sses appeared out of nowhere, saying, ¡°You yed very well.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± She smiled politely. As she headed outside, the man followed and asked, ¡°Are you free for the night? Would you like to catch a movie with me?¡± That was when Irene¡¯s phone rang. When she answered, a deep voice growled from the other end, ¡°Stay away from that man-do not give him your number or agree to going on a date with him. And get out of the building right now.¡± Irene was utterly confused. What was going on here? Still, she left the building and found Isaac¡¯s car waiting. The Runaway Groom Chapter 73 The Runaway Groom Chapter 73 Chapter 73 It was only then that Irene suddenly remembered that Isaac was an investor in Mark¡®s business, and it was natural that he would be present today. She massaged her temples. How could she have forgotten about that? ¡°Get over here!¡± Isaac barked over the phone. ¡°Got it,¡± she said, and put away the phone while telling the man with sses, ¡°I¡®m sorry, but I have something else to do¨C I have to go.¡± With that, she hurried to the car waiting by the road, but just as she reached the handle for the rear door, Isaac snapped, ¡°Ride shotgun.¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Irene reluctantly got in the front passenger seat, and she barely sat down when Isaac asked impatiently, ¡°Can¡®t you quit messing around, Irene Spencer?¡± Irene frowned, thinking once again that he was crazy. Chapter 73 2/4 How was she messing around? How did she manage to upset him again? Putting on her seatbelt , she simply said, ¡°Please don¡®t create an argument out of nothing.¡± In truth, Isaac himself did not know what was happening just then¨Che was quick to anger whenever he was around her. He never had peace ever since he met her! Still, he restrained his anger and said, ¡°Don¡®t tell others that you¡®re not married.¡± Irene did not want to upset him, and since she was running away anyway, she did not mind leaving a good impression. ¡°Fine. Whatever you say goes.¡± Isaac¡®s frown eased right then, and delight showed on his face. For once, they were coexisting peacefully as they headed back to the mansion. However, when the car stopped and Irene was about to get off, Isaac suddenly caught her wrist. Her eyes widened in surprise as she looked at him, her eyshes twitching as she stared at him. ¡°What are you doing?¡± In reality, Isaac did not return over thest few days because he was giving her the cold treatment for telling Zachary to find him a woman. She appearedpletely unaffected , however, and that blush in her cheek was sign enough that life was good for her. She was truly indifferent! ¡°Could you stop pissing me off, Irene Spencer?¡± His words were quiet but clear. Even if he did not want to take his feelings for her seriously, he could no longer control himself. Even if he knew that she had been with other men, gotten pregnant, and suffered a miscarriage ... along with a long Chapter 73 4/4 list of other misdeeds... He had feelings for her anyway. ¡°Did I upset you again?¡± Irene asked, wondering if he had some enormous chip on the shoulder that upsetted him all the time. Naturally, she kept that thought in mind without saying it, while answering tamely, ¡°Okay. I promise I won¡®t upset you again.¡± Then, she smiled and asked, ¡°Can you let go of me now? I need to get out.¡± Isaac suddenly lowered his gaze at her fresh, alluring lips. Remembering the confidence and elegance she showed while she yed the piano, he leaned forward and kissed her. Caught by surprise, Irene tried to resist when she came to her senses. ¡°Let me go-¡± Isaac simply caught her wrists and stopped her from moving, while putting more weight behind the kiss to stop her from talking. At the same time, his skin reached beneath her skirt... The Runaway Groom Chapter 74 The Runaway Groom Chapter 74 Chapter 74 Isaac was perfectly aware of how fair Irene¡¯s skin was, but it was only now that he realized how tender and smooth it was to the touch. It felt as if a feather brushed against his heart¡ªhe craved that sensation. He became obsessed with that sensation. At the same time, Irene¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment, her pupils dting. ¡­ What was he doing? No. No way! She could not do this with him given her physical condition, but Isaac was going further and further¡­ Unable to free herself from his restraint, she steeled herself and bit his lips! Isaac¡¯s grip loosened from the pain, and she seized the moment to push him away. ring at him, she snapped, ¡°What are you doing, Isaac Jefferson?! What do you take me for, some whore who spreads her legs for every man she meets?¡± Isaac held her gaze with a distant look. ¡°Isn¡¯t that exactly what you are?¡± Irene almost pped him across the face right then, but she stopped herself. After all, she could not afford to do it now, just as she was not brave enough! Having calmed down soon enough, she said evenly, ¡°I¡¯m not. I had been with a man, but just the one I won¡¯t sleep with simply anyone I meet.¡± If she got upset or threw a fit, Isaac would just say, ¡°You are my wife, and nothing I do to you is ever out of line.¡± But since she was staying calm, all he could do was watch. ¡°Then leave him.¡± This time, Isaac was very calm as well. All he wanted right now for her to be his wife-no more, no less. In other words, she was not allowed to have liaisons¡­ Be it with one man or several. She belonged to him, and him only! Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. On the other hand, Irene did not even know what the man from that night looked like, let alone his character. All they had shared was that night, and the only thing he left her with was her twins. As such, she had no qualms as she replied, ¡°Okay.¡± Isaac¡¯s expression became rxed, seemingly because he was satisfied with her answer and was getting along with her for once. ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± Isaac said as he alighted. However, that line left Irene taken aback. She was sensing his change ever so slightly¡­ but she was soon looking at her toes. She and Isaac were from two different worlds, and she would never dare to feel any desire for him. Hence, she feigned a nonchnt look as she followed him out of the car. Mrs. Watson was taking out the trash when she found both of them returning together, and promptly smiled.¡± Wee home, Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson. Did you bothe home together?¡± Irene smiled. ¡°We happened to run into each other.¡± ¡°Oh!¡± Mrs. Watson eximed, and tactfully made way for them, especially since it was very rare that they got along. Irene, however, did not want to be alone with Isaac-not when she had caught on to the fact that he was changing. ¡°I¡¯m sleepy,¡± she said, hastilying up with an excuse. ¡°I¡¯m going upstairs.¡± Isaac knew that she was avoiding him, and said, ¡°I¡¯m hungry. Make me something.¡± Irene was speechless. Could she say no? Nheless, she forced a smile and asked with a subservient tone, ¡°What do you have in mind?¡± ¡°Anything is fine,¡± he replied. Irene gave him a look, and washed her hands in the kitchen before opening the fridge. The fridge contained all the ingredients one would ever need, though she opted for something simple that she happened to be good with. At the same time, Isaac remained standing in the living room, unbuttoning his jacket with one hand while he watched the woman in the kitchen get to work. He had forgotten the taste of home because his parents died early, and Mrs. Watson was the only one who kept the mansion together. Naturally, it used to be cold and bleak in here before Irene came to stay Now, she felt at home. Taking off his jacket , he threw it casually on the couch and strode into the kitchen. ¡°Irene Spencer.¡± The woman was using the chopping board, and turned to nce at the man standing by the doorway. ¡°Hold on a moment.¡± Isaac naturally knew that she would not be done so quickly. He wanted to tell her, ¡°Let¡¯s stay like this from now on.¡± But he could not, because his ego stopped him from doing so. He turned and left. The Runaway Groom Chapter 75 The Runaway Groom Chapter 75 Chapter 75 At the same time, Irene turned away from him, keeping her head down even as a certain emotion briefly shed in her eyes. She was done cooking half an hourter¨Csimple dishes with nothing borate. When Isaac sat down by the dining table, he realized that there was only one person¡¯s portion, and asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you eating?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not hungry,¡± Irene replied, and sat down with him, apanying him although she was not eating. They were more or less married, were they not? Even though the only evidence for that was their marriage certificate and nothing else. One way or another, they were getting along unusually well today. ¡­ They had breakfast together the next morning, and Isaac said, ¡°I can give you a ride to the hospital before going to work.¡± Irene had not told him that she would not be working there anymore. Keeping her head down, she replied, ¡°I won¡¯t be going today.¡± Isaac simply presumed that she was still under the weather, and as such did not say anything. ¡°I can help you get formally appointed as a full¨Cfledged doctor at Central¡­¡± She looked at him then and smiled. ¡°You don¡¯t have to.¡± Somehow, she was not used to him being too nice¨Cshe would have been in tears with gratitude before. Now, however, she did not need that job. Isaac frowned, finding her a little unusual, as the usual routine would be a harsh retort. Still, he could not find anything wrong with her after staring at her for heartbeats, and eventually left the table. Irene continued to take her time with her food, and turned around for a moment when she heard the front door close. After she finished breakfast, she told Mrs. Watson, ¡°I¡¯ll get theundry soon. ¡°Okay,¡± Mrs. Watson replied without turning toward her, since she was standing by the sink and busy washing dishes. After throwing away everything she did not want, Irene left the mansion and had the chauffeur send her to the cleaners. Then, having packed all her clothes, she carried everything to the car and told the chauffeur to drive her to a mall. When they arrived, she took the briefcase down with her and lied to the chauffeur, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll get changed inside. Just wait for me at the parking lot.¡± ¡°Of course, Mrs. Jefferson,¡± the chauffeur replied. With that, she brought her briefcase into the mall¡­ and never came out. The chauffeur waited from morning until around three in the afternoon. He was under the impression that women usually shop that long. It was not until five when he realized that something was out of ce. He entered the mall to look for Irene, but she was nowhere to be found. Finally realizing that this was bad, he promptly called Isaac. Isaac was having a meeting at the Light Group offices, but despite his usual vignce during such asions, he appeared distracted at the moment. He left his phone in his office, and his secretary brought it to him when it rang. He answered when he saw the caller ID, and the chauffeur quickly told him, ¡°Sir, Mrs. Jefferson asked to visit Gostir Mall this morning, but she has yet to leave since.¡± Isaac frowned. ¡°She never left?¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. ¡°Did you check the cameras?¡± ¡°Yes, sir, but she¡¯s nowhere to be seen.¡± It was precisely because the chauffeur could not find Irene at all that he realized something was wrong. On the other hand, Isaac quickly did the math and caught on to what was going on. So she had made up her mind to run away¡­ Was that why she was acting so tame yesterday? ¡°Got it,¡± he told the chauffeur and hung up. Standing up, he told everyone in the room, ¡°That¡¯s all for today. Dismissed.¡± With those words, he strode out and told his secretary, ¡°Track down Irene¡¯s bank records right now. Find out if she made purchases for transit tickets.¡± The secretary promptly left to do so, while Isaac drove to the mall. The chauffeur was panicking, and promptly ran up to Isaac when he saw him. Sir.¡± Isaac was glowering as he asked, ¡°How long has it been since she went in?¡± The chauffeur did a mental calction. ¡°It¡¯s been almost ten hours now.¡± ¡°That long?!¡± Isaac¡¯s expression turned terrifying. The chauffeur lowered his head. ¡°She told me to wait in the parking lot. I wasn¡¯t concerned at first since shopping would take some time¡­ I only realized that something was wrong when I realized that it¡¯s almost evening.¡± Isaac¡¯s phone rang just then, and he quickly answered it. The Runaway Groom Chapter 76 The Runaway Groom Chapter 76 Chapter 76 It was Isaac¡¯s secretary, and she had finished checking Irene¡¯s bank records. ¡°I found nothing, sir. There are no records of ticket purchases.¡± In reality, Irene had sent Sheryl away before herself. Naturally, she would never board a transport that required ID or bank records to run away. Instead, she arranged for the purchase of a small pre¨Cowned car, and kept it in Gostir Mall¡¯s basement parking lot. Everything down to her route was nned, so that she would avoid any cameras to make a stealthy escape. Naturally, she had picked a mall since it would always be crowded, and she could put on a disguise to elude prying eyes. There was no way anyone could track her down¨Cthey would not even know where to start! Be that as it may, Isaac checked through all security footage at the mall, though he did not find any trace of her. Both his secretary and chauffeur kept their heads down, afraid to speak at all while his expression turned icy. Despite his silence, the air around him was suffocating and heavy, as if there was an impending storm. ¡°Do whatever you can, use everything at our disposal¨Cjust find her!¡± he finally growled. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± His secretary promptly left, leaving the chauffeur shaking in his boots in silence. He had been too careless, allowing Irene to give him the slip. While Isaac was not taking it out on him, he was not being understanding either if the chauffeur had realized it sooner, Irene might not have gotten away at all. Nheless, the person Isaac hated most at that very moment was Irene! She had actually run away! Why? To elope with that man? ¡®No, stop thinking¡­ Or you¡¯ll get even more furious!¡® N?velDrama.Org content. It was nighttime when Isaac returned to the mansion. Amidst the deathly silence, he headed upstairs and entered the room where Irene usually slept. Everything inside was tidied and cleaned. Her personal effects used to be around, but none of those things were here now. He entered and opened her wardrobe to find her clothes gone. Irene had sent all her clothes out for dry cleaning, and threw away whatever she did not need, leaving almost no trace of herself in this house¡­ save for the divorce agreement she left on the table, which she had already signed. Isaac closed the wardrobe, and turned to see that piece of paper on the table. He picked it up and tore it into pieces with no hesitation, throwing the pieces into the nearest trash can. There was no way he would sign that! Glowering, he swore that he would get her, bring her back, and properly torment her, so that she would plead for a merciful death! He was already bending himself backward for her, only for her to spit in his face! Meanwhile, Irene had arrived at Sunny City. Sheryl had already rented a room there, and she had a ce to rest her legs once she arrived. After resting for a day, she admitted to her mother as they ate, ¡°Mom, I¡¯ve divorced Isaac.¡± Sheryl was naturally pleased and approved of her daughter¡¯s decision. In the end, it was a loveless marriage, built around a pawn sacrificed in the name of Lionel¡¯s profit. Putting a slice of fish on Irene¡¯s te, she replied, ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Irene nodded, but was not feeling particrly hungry. At the same time, she was not sure how she should tell her mom about her pregnancy. But there was no hiding it. ¡°Mom¡­¡± she began, clenching on her fork and knife. Sheryl looked up with a smile. ¡°What is it?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 77 The Runaway Groom Chapter 77 Chapter 77 Pursing her lips, Irene eventually said, ¡°I¡®m pregnant.¡± Sheryl did a double take, and it took her a while to regain her senses. ¡°You¡®re pregnant?¡± she eximed in slight disbelief. Irene nodded. ¡°Is the child Isaac¡®s?¡± Sheryl asked to her knowledge, her daughter had never been involved in any rtionship, something which Lionel was particrly strict about. Irene herself also always maintained firm mortal integrity. The only man she came in close proximity with was Isaac, so he was the only person Sheryl could think of. On the other hand, Irene did not know how she should exin everything that had happened, and could not bear to tell her mother the truth. What would her mother think, if she said that she had no idea who the father was? Since Sheryl believes that the child was Isaac¡®s, so be it¨Cthat was at least a better option than saying she had no idea. ¡°Yeah,¡± she said, even though she hung her head and avoided Sheryl¡®s gaze because she was lying. Sheryl kept putting more food on her table and asked in concern, ¡°Eat more since you¡®re pregnant. Are you suffering from morning sickness? How far along are you?¡± Irene looked up then. ¡°Are you saying that I should go through with this?¡± At first, she was actually worried that Sheryl would tell her to get an abortion since she had divorced Isaac. ¡°The child is yours,¡± Sheryl said. She believed that an abortion was ideal following the divorce, as it would make for a clean separation. But Sheryl was also a mother, and she understood how important children could be to a mother, Convinced that Irene had divorced Isaac because of the loveless nature of their marriage, she said, ¡°I¡®ve actually found myself a job as a mall administrator, and the sry is a grand a month. It isn¡®t much, but it would be enough to keep us going. I¡®m old and inexperienced because I haven¡®t been working since marrying your father, so that¡®s about the only job I can get. That said, there¡®s nothing to worry about¨CI¡®ll take good care of you, so stay home and stay healthy. The child will have no links to the Jeffersons even after it¡®s born.¡± Since they could not bear to abort the child, birth was the only option, which also meant they needed to make a living to raise the child. And together, they would probably be able to do it. Irene then realized she had been bumbling for so long¡­ but she finally understood something now. ¡°Thank you, Mom,¡± she said quietly, her voice cracking slightly. ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me, silly. I¡¯m the one who has owed you for years now.¡± Sheryl certainly knew her daughter, and how to be considerate of her emotions. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t stress yourself out now that you¡¯re pregnant¨Cit¡¯s detrimental to your baby¡¯s growth.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°I know.¡± Sheryl smiled. ¡°I¡¯m actually happy that I¡¯m bing a grandmother soon! Oh, you haven¡¯t told me how far along you are. ** ¡°Almost three months,¡± Irene replied. Sheryl spaced out for a moment even as she looked at her own daughter, who would be a mother soon. Time had really flown! ¡°You shouldn¡¯t move around or do too much for your child¡¯s sake, or you¡¯ll end up like me, and 11 Sheryl abruptly stopped, suddenly realizing she had spoken too much. Still, Irene knows what she was getting at. ¡°It¡¯s all in the past, Mom.¡± Sheryl had actually been pregnant with a boy and a girl¨Cfraternal twins. Irene was born first, but her twin had died while still inside Sheryl. ¨C The failedbor permanently scarred Sheryl¡¯s body, and she could not get pregnant ever since. Irene could have had a twin brother¡­ and that was when she remembered that she had twins too. Was that a hereditary trait from her mother? Still, the chance of having twins in a family was high if the parents were twins themselves. Even so, Irene had lost one. ¡°You don¡¯t have to work, Mom,¡± she said then, havinge up with a n beforehand. Her mother did not have to work andbor hard to keep things going for her and her child. Sheryl began, ¡°Irene¡­¡± ¡°Mom,¡± Irene said, cutting her short. ¡°Believe me¨CI have a way to make money.¡± Smiling, she then added, ¡°You¡®ll be in charge of caring for me and babysitting your grandchildter on.¡± Sheryl nodded, since she was all too willing to babysit. All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. As she had imed, Irene had everything nned¨Cshe left the house the next day to meet a certain person at a diner. ¡°It¡®s been a while, Irene.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 78 The Runaway Groom Chapter 78 Chapter 78 ¡°Lulu,¡± Irene greeted the other woman and gave her a hug. ¡°Sorry for imposing this time.¡± One of the reasons Irene had decided toe to Sunny City was because Lulu Adams was here, with the other being an artist¡®s studio located here, which she had found online-she was interested in taking over. After Lionel pushed her to learn so much, she developed an interest in painting aside from medicine. She was more or lessing to an agreement with the seller online, and she would be going there to finalize everything after her meeting with Lulu. ¡°You¡®re never imposing,¡± Lulu said politely, patting her on the back. ¡°I just showed your mom around when she arrived.¡± Then, her tone shifted and she asked, ¡°Why are you suddenly moving here? Your family seemed rooted in Cloud City before.¡± Irene smiled bitterly. ¡°It¡®s a long story.¡± ¡°Well, anything on the menu catching your eye? Order away¨Cit¡®s my treat.¡± Lulu did not press Irene for details and even changed the subject¨Ceveryone had their own burdens. Indeed, Irene would have a good reason why she was not saying anything. They were close friends despite their two¨Cyear age gap, and Irene had never once told Zachary about her even though they never lost contact after Lulu left Cloud City. In Irene¡®s mind, Lulu had her own reason for leaving back then. ¡°How is life here treating you, Lulu?¡± Irene asked then. ¡°You¡®re getting skinnier again.¡± Lulu smiled. ¡°Just busy with work. You know the nature of my job.¡± Irene was naturally impressed with Lulu¡®s job, as well as her efficiency. Even after they were done eating, Lulu never mentioned Zachary as if he had never been involved in her life. ¡°Juste to me if you need anything,¡± she said. Irene nodded. ¡°Thank you, Lulu.¡± Suddenly, Lulu¡®s phone rang¨Cit was a call from her precinct. Standing up, she said, ¡°I have to go now.¡± ¡°Another case?¡± Irene asked. ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Lulu replied. ¡°They didn¡¯t say, though I do have a case that isn¡¯t closed ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid?¡± Irene asked. She was actually impressed with Lulu¡¯s incredible courage as a forensic doctor, who had to work with dead bodies every day, and she was still quite young. ¡°I¡¯m used to it,¡± Lulu simply replied. After they parted ways, Irene met the owner of the artist studio, and found that everything from its location and interior decoration to its pricing was eptable. yet. There were some students who intended to stay¡ªthe owner had to leave the country, which was why he was selling the rights to the building. Irene agreed to the terms, and all the paperwork was done within three days, allowing her to settle down in the new city. Back in Cloud City, Isaac¡¯s secretary and Stan were standing in front of Isaac¡¯s desk within his office. Stan had since recovered and was sent to search for any clues to Irene¡¯s whereabouts, but there was not even a trace of her to be found over thest few days. ¡°She must have nned it out, even mapping out a route that avoids every camera¡­.¡® Isaac looked up¨Che certainly knew that the woman had nned out the whole thing. Moreover, he had let his guard down because she was so docile before she left. ¡°Keep looking!¡± he snapped, leaning against his chair just then and throwing his fountain pen loudly on his desk. The sound was almost deafening in the silent room! Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. He was not cursing or glowering, but his bodynguage made it clear that he was very much annoyed. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± Stan was about to leave with the secretary when Isaac stopped Stan. ¡°Find out who Irene Spencer¡¯s lover is,¡± he said with an unusually dark look. He was feeling the impulse to capture both Irene and her lover, and then cut them into a million tiny pieces! Stan¡¯s eyes brightened just then. Why did he not think about this? In fact, he had lost hope for a while now, but a spark rekindled in him. ¡°Right! While we can¡¯t 213 find Irene Spencer, tracking down her lover might give us clues! I will do that right now!¡± ¡°Yes. Now, go.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 79 The Runaway Groom Chapter 79 Chapter 79 Right now, all Isaac wanted to do was to find Irene¨C¨Cno matter what it would take. After that, it would be her death by a thousand cuts! To him, leaving him with nothing but a divorce agreement and running away was a betrayal! Even if there was no sentiment involved, they were still married! How could she run away without a word? Furious was far from enough to describe his emotion just then. However, two more weeks passed, and Stan still did not manage to get anything. They had been searching everything they could about Irene, but could not find any record of her having liaisons with a man. ¡°Nothing?¡± Isaac asked as he stood in front of a window wall at his mansion. His towering figure seemed to project coldness as he turned around. ¡°Nothing,¡± Stan admitted. ¡°Be it med school or work, she never had a boyfriend.¡± Isaac raised a brow, and simply presumed that Stan had slipped up. He had personally seen the morning after pills in that woman¡®s bag. Why would she need that if she was not doing it with a man? And she had ended up pregnant anyway! What was it if she did not have a lover? Parthenogenesis?! He suddenly chuckled coolly. ¡°She¡®s quite well¨Cprepared, isn¡®t she?¡± Stan blinked, but soon understood what Isaac was getting at. ¡°Are you suggesting that she had nned ahead and sabotaged any potential efforts to investigate her? Just like how she nned her escape?¡± ¡°Drag her back even if she¡®s made it to another!¡± Isaac growled. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Stan nodded¨C¨Cthis was perhaps the most difficult task he had been assigned since he started working with Isaac. Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Irene was painting when she suddenly sneezed. Rubbing her nose, she wondered if someone was talking about her¨Cone of her strokes went sideways because of the sneeze too. Chapter 70% The portrait was almost done, but the failed stroke basically ruined the atmosphere of the entire painting, leaving her frowning and losing the mood to keep painting. As she stepped out of the studio for a breath of fresh air, Sheryl arrived and draped a cardigan over her shoulders, asking, ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡± ¡°Nothing.¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°Get some rest if you¡¯re tired,¡± Sheryl suggested. Now, she was working as a cleaner for Irene¡¯s studio, making caring for her daughter easier. After working in the night, they would both head home together by night. It was a quiet life, but Irene¡¯s belly was swelling and bing even more obvious. Sheryl did the math in her head. ¡°I guess the baby would be arriving on a cold day.¡± It would be slightly past March, and the climate would hardly be warm. Irene looked down on her own belly with a tender gaze. ¡°A cold day is fine too.¡± She reveled in this quiet, uninteresting life¡­ but she underestimated Isaac¡¯s determination to find her. Before she could even leave bed the next day, Sheryl arrived in her room with a panic showing on her face. ¡°What should we do about this, Irene?¡± Irene was still feeling groggy and sat up in bed. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Mom? What is it?¡± ¡°Look at this!¡± Sheryl eximed, passing her the newspaper she was holding. Irene frowned. ¡°Who reads newspapers in this day and age?¡± ¡°Okay, phone it is!¡± Sheryl said, but fumbled and dropped her phone on the floor. The sound seemed to clear Irene¡¯s head right then. She could tell that something serious, or her mother would not be panicking so much. Picking up her phone, she tapped on her most frequently used news app to find a bounty notice with her photo posted on it. It was not just on that app either¨Cevery popr app had such notices too! ¡°What should we do? You know how greedy people can be, and Isaac just posted a bounty of fifteen million dors for any information anyone has on you! We can¡¯t stay here any longer, can we?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 80 The Runaway Groom Chapter 80 Chapter 80 Irene never expected Isaac to be crazy enough to post such an enormous bounty just to find her! Yes, she had managed to escape him without leaving any trace that he could use to track her down, but he simply decided to appeal to human greed! Withworking being as advanced as it was, it would not be difficult to drag anyone out into the open with money and publicity! ¡°What should we do now? Should we leave?¡± Sheryl asked anxiously. Even as she forced herself to stay cool, Irene looked up at her, and said, ¡°Calm down, Mom.¡± ¡°Why is he looking for you? Didn¡®t you part ways with him amicably?¡± Sheryl asked in confusion then. Rubbing her cheeks, Irene admitted, ¡°Actually, I ran away.¡± Sheryl was left speechless. Still, she understood her daughter enough and soon realized that Irene just wanted to get away from the marriage that was never hers. After taking a moment to calm down, Sheryl said, ¡°No, the world is big. There will always be refuge for us.¡± Irene, however, was not that optimistic¨Cjudging from present circumstances, she must have incensed Isaac, or he would not be going all out in his attempt to locate her. In fact she could already imagine how things would turn out once she was captured. She could not afford that¨Cnot when she was pregnant! Getting out of bed, she said, ¡°I¡®m going out for a while.¡± ¡°Do be careful,¡± Sheryl reminded her. Putting on some casual attire along with a baseball cap and a face mask, she headed to Lulu¡®s precinct, but it turns out that she had left with a squad, and there was no telling when she would be back. She then left the precinct and arrived at her studio, where a crowd was standing outside the door. Since many of her students and fellow instructors had seen her face, it was clear that they were all there for the bounty. It seems that she really could not stay there now. All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. As she took a step back and was ready to leave, she inadvertently knocked into somebody. She quickly apologized without looking up, but as she turned to leave, the person caught her wrist and asked, ¡°What¡®s with that getup? Afraid that Isaac Jefferson would find you?¡± Irene looked up then. The voice was a little familiar... When she saw who it was, she felt three times more fear than she would have if she saw Isaac, and she stammered from sheer terror, ¡°You... How could it be you?!¡± Harvey Gooding chuckled coolly. ¡°Why can¡®t it be me?¡± Leaning to whisper into her ear, he said, ¡°I was just traveling to Cloud City to discuss a partnership with Mr. Jefferson, but his temper is just too vtile. See, he was clearly giving you off to me at first, and suddenly changed his mind, even violently assaulting me just to discourage me. I spent two weeks behind closed doors as I tried to recover, while nothing came out of our potential partnership at all. Still, I guess I¡®m lucky, and somehow managed to reach you before he could, even with that massive bounty of his!¡± Irene frowned. ¡°You¡®re a resident of Sunny City?¡± Harvey gestured with his chin at a nearbyndmark. ¡°The logo on that building belongs to Gooding Enterprises, which I happen to own.¡± Irene nced briefly at thendmark, but she was not interested in Harvey¡®s identity at all. All she wanted to do was run, but Harvey was keeping her firmly in ce. ¡°Irene Spencer,¡± he said with great purpose, ¡°before you, I¡®ve never suffered so much and so terribly because of one person.¡± Irene gulped and smiled apologetically. ¡°It was just a misunderstanding...¡± She quickly stopped when she saw the way Harvey was ring at her. After all the mess that had happened between them, how stupid would he have to be to believe her? In fact, there was no escape for her now¡ªwith both Harvey and Isaac breathing down her neck, she was caught between a rock and a hard ce. Truly desperate just then, she actually did not feel the strength to resist. ¡°Just kill me already.¡± ¡°What, murder a pretty face like you? That would be a waste,¡± he said, clearly having other ns in mind. Irene¡®s heart was pounding, but she had no chance of escape as Harvey brought her to one of his private homes and stationed guards all over the ce. After being made to suffer so much because of her, it was an understatement to say that he was wary of her. Even the windows in her room were boarded up with nks! The Runaway Groom Chapter 81 The Runaway Groom Chapter 81 Chapter 81 There were guards watching the entire residence inside out, but Irene had no intention of escaping anyway. After all, even if she managed to flee from Harvey, she would just end up caught by Isaac. Indeed, she no longer had the will to run. On the other hand, Harvey felt uneasy to see her being quiet andpliant. ¡°What are you up to this time, Irene Spencer?¡± Irene was simply sitting on the couch, and calmly said, ¡°I know I won¡¯t get away, so I won¡¯t waste my strength trying¨Cthat said, I¡¯ll kill myself if you try anything funny.¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°Why would I go through so much to capture you, only to not get you?¡± Irene looked at him then. Harvey was not your typical greasy, perverted old man. He was tall and had a handsome face, while his eyes projected both a sense of mischief and indulgence. ¡°Didn¡¯t youe to Sunny City to hide from Isaac Jefferson? The fact that you ran proves that you hate him. If that¡¯s the case, I don¡¯t mind-¡± ¡°Dream on!¡± Irene cut Harvey short before he could finish. The only reason she ran was because of the child in her belly¨CIsaac would never allow her to give birth. There was no way she could maintain her marriage with him while he had another person¡¯s child, because that was unfair to him. There was no reason to stay married anyway, which was why she made her choice. ¡°I will not have anything to do with you,¡± she said with determination. Harvey narrowed his eyes then, but Irene had no reason to fear him¨Cshe was already ensnared in the worst case scenario. ¡°I¡¯m a doctor. There are plenty of options avable to me if I wanted to kill myself.¡± After being tricked and beaten so many times by her, Harvey certainly believed her. ¡°Well, I won¡¯t let you free if you refuse to y along,¡± Harvey chuckled coolly. ¡°The more Isaac wants you, the more I want to hide you!¡± He still held a bitter grudge against the man for beating him up, which was why he insisted on messing with Isaac! ¡°What a coincidence¡ªI don¡¯t want to be found either,¡± Irene replied as she ced a hand protectively over her stomach. After all, there was no telling if she could protect her child if Isaac found her. For Harvey, it was perhaps the most positive thing she ever said to him. ¡°So, we share a mutual interest?¡± Harvey asked, pouring both of them a ss of water. Irene did not drink it, and seeing that she was being wary, he said, ¡°I don¡®t deceive people like you. The water is clean.¡± All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. Irene still refused to drink it, however, so he simply ignored her and drank, before standing up and appearing ready to leave. ¡°Just stay here and don¡®t do anything stupid. Do that, and I promise Isaac won¡®t ever find you.¡± Irene promptly stopped him then. ¡°Could I have my phone back?¡± Harvey had taken it away when she brought her here, but her question left him staring at her as if she just said something stupid. ¡°So that you can call for help?¡± ¡°No...¡± Irene tried to exin, but Harvey refused to listen. ¡°Just give up. There¡®s nowork coverage here, and there¡®s nothing you can use to call for help.¡± With that, he left. In reality, Irene wanted her phone to contact Sheryl¨Cher mother would be worried after she disappeared without a trace. As such, she had to wait until Harvey returned to exin. Meanwhile, she looked around the house and found that it was empty, there was no food in the kitchen, and she was starving as night arrived, which meant that her child would be denied nutrition too. Finding the guards, she said, ¡°I want to see your boss.¡± They simply ignored her. ¡°Hey, can¡®t you hear what I¡®m saying?¡± She became flustered as they acted as if he did not exist. ¡°Is he trying to starve me to death?¡± While the guards remained silent, a familiar voice called out, ¡°Irene...¡± Irene promptly looked up at the person walking toward her. The Runaway Groom Chapter 82 The Runaway Groom Chapter 82 Chapter 82 Irene saw Sheryl, and quickly turned to Harvey, who had returned as well. Why was he doing this? Why did he bring her mother here?! Even as her expression darkened, Sheryl hurried toward her. ¡°Oh, Irene. This gentleman told me that he¡®s your friend and was taking me to you. And you really are here!¡± Irene smiled at her. ¡°Could you go in first?¡± Sheryl was puzzled, but nodded and entered the building. After making sure that Sheryl was gone, Irene glowered at Harvey. ¡°What is this? Why did you bring my mother here too?¡± Harvey gave her a look. ¡°I thought you¡®re actually smart after all the times you escaped me. Why are you being so stupid now?¡± ¡°Who would know if you¡®re really bearing ill will?¡± Irene was confused, but stared at him warily all the same since he had tried to mess with her so many times¨Che certainly was no angel. Harvey¡®s face turned cold right then. ¡°You¡®re looking a gift horse in the mouth!¡± Irene sneered. ¡°Are you saying you¡®re being nice? Then why are you keeping me captive here?¡± Harvey had no retort for that¨Cshe was right. However, even if he could not have her, he would not allow Isaac to have her either. ¡°I was out clearing any traces of your presence today, in case Isaaces looking for you. Aren¡®t you afraid he would guess where you were, leaving your mother out there for him? That¡®s why I¡®ve been kind enough to bring her here to stay with you. Shouldn¡®t you be thanking me instead?¡± Irene naturally did not have that much imagination in her¨Cshe was too worried that Harvey would hurt her mother. ¡°Are you really that nice?¡± she asked suspiciously. Harvey wrinkled his brow right then. ¡°You really don¡®t know what¡®s good for you. Sure, I have my own reasons for hiding you here, but have you considered the fact that I had not forced myself on you?¡± Pausing for a moment, he then continued, ¡°You may have threatened to kill yourself, but do you think I care? I could just do what I want, while you die if you want to¡ª but the point is, I didn¡®t. Shouldn¡®t you be thanking me for that alone?¡± His tone then eventually eased as he said, ¡°Just don¡®t do anything stupid if you don¡®t want your mother to be worried. With those words, he walked up and pped a hand on Irene¡¯s shoulder, but she promptly darted away by several paces, maintaining a great distance while staring at him warily. Harvey raised a brow but suddenly chuckled. ¡°Fine. I won¡¯t touch you.¡± ¡°I need dinner,¡± Irene then told him. Harvey finally remembered that the house was usually unupied, and there was nothing in there¡ªhe had also kept her here for an entire day, so she would have no food to speak of. ¡°I¡¯ll send somebody,¡± he said. ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene said¨Cnow that she was his captive, she should know when she shouldpromise. All content is ? N0velDrama.Org. After all, she would just get on his nerves if she kept putting up resistance, and she would never be able to run if he got violent with her.. ¡°Oh, you actually know your manners?¡± Harvey was actually surprised that she could suddenly act like this. Irene said nothing and simply strode into the house, where Sheryl hurried to her and tugged at her hand, quietly asking, ¡°Is he really your friend?¡± She had never met Harvey, and therefore found the im dubious. Still, Irene had to admit to that for the moment. ¡°Yeah.¡± She just did not want Sheryl to get suspicious. An hourter, another woman around her fifties arrived, and Harvey said, ¡°She will be taking care of you two.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 83 The Runaway Groom Chapter 83 Chapter 83 Irene, however, knew that Harvey actually meant that the woman would be keeping an eye on them instead of taking care of them. Still, she kept that in mind without exposing him¨Cit was understandable for Harvey to do that. Then, giving Irene a look, Harvey asked, ¡°I¡®m actually curious about your rtionship with Isaac Jefferson. Would you mind telling me?¡± Irene chomped on a muffin before saying, ¡°We¡®re married.¡± Harvey was speechless, his jaw almost dropping off right then. ¡°What?!¡± he eximed, unable to believe his ears. ¡°Come on, you can do better than that! Everyone knows that he¡®s single, and you¡®re saying you two are married? You¡®re kidding!¡± It was natural for Harvey to doubt her, and he was convinced that she was using Isaac to stop him from having any funny ideas. Still, Irene calmly looked up at him. ¡°I¡®m not lying. He wants revenge¡ªthat¡®s why he¡®s hunting me down.¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. ¡°Revenge against you?¡± Harvey appeared interested just then. ¡°Do tell.¡± ¡°Our marriage is hidden, so not many know about it, and it¡®s understandable for you to doubt me. Anyway, I¡®m running away because I cheated on Isaac, and now pregnant with someone else¡®s child. Naturally, there¡®s no way he could live with that, so he¡®s hunting me down now,¡± Harvey wasughing out loud even before Irene could finish. The indomitable Isaac Jefferson a cuckold? He did not hesitate to sh her a thumb up. ¡°Well done.¡± Now, he was quite impressed with her¨Che was not the only one who kept losing to Irene, but Isaac was too! He really wanted tough so hard right then. Irene gave him a cool look. ¡°Are you really that happy about that?¡± Harvey, however, was certainly in a good mood. ¡°I¡®ve lost so many times to that man, but you managed to cheat on him. How could I not be pleased? Anyway, you have nothing to worry about if you stay with me. I¡®ll never trouble you¨Cwhat you did is enough reason for me to y nice.¡± Irene actually told Harvey about her rtionship with Isaac so that he knew that Isaac was hostile to her. As the saying goes: the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Even if she and Isaac were not enemies, she needed help to stay away from him and deliver the baby with no issues. After that, the next few months passed with her living under Harvey¡®s protection. Her belly swelled as the due date loomned. During one of the afternoons, she was napping before the window, beneath the sun. Harvey entered on tiptoes so that he did not wake her. He often visited, and seeing her belly swelling was enough for him to believe her ims. Moreover, he looked into the im that she had cheated on Isaac¨Cit turned out that they were really married, and it was a hidden marriage that not many knew of. ¡°Urgh...¡± Irene stirred, and had to hold up a hand to block the ring sun, narrowing her eyes at the person before her as she asked, ¡°You¡®re here?¡± As he promised, he was never out of line after she stayed here, and his wariness toward her slowly lowered. Pulling out a chair to sit beside her, Harvey said tly. ¡°Yeah. Just checking up on you.¡± Irene stroked her belly in turn. She was grateful that he had provided her with everything for an easy life over thest few months. Even if she was not allowed to leave, her pregnancy was a healthy one. Harvey also sent doctors to check on her on asion, ensuring her child¡®s health. Losing one only made her very prudent toward the other. On the other hand, Harvey had something gnawing on his mind for a long while, but eventually asked, ¡°Have you actually realized that you can¡®t hide forever?¡± ¡°I just want to deliver the baby.¡± Irene certainly did not think that far ahead. Harvey held her gaze then. ¡°I have an idea.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 84 The Runaway Groom Chapter 84 Chapter 84 Before Irene could respond, Harvey said, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to stay with Isaac Jefferson, and you¡¯ve already broken up with your boyfriend¡­ Why don¡¯t you just marry me?¡± Harvey had asked Irene who the child¡¯s father was before, and Irene lied that it was a boyfriend whom she had broken up with¨Cthat was why the child was now fatherless. ¡°No-¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be in such a hurry to say no,¡± Harvey said, cutting her short. ¡°We¡¯ve been here for months, and I¡¯ve shown that I can be nice, right? Aren¡¯t we friends, at least? There¡¯s no way you can stay here for the rest of your life, and if you don¡¯t want Isaac to keep haunting you, you need some degree of status.¡± Irene looked at him as she pondered¨Cit was true, she could not stay here forever. But once she left, being found by Isaac was just an eventuality. ¡°I can be your shield. Just tell Isaac that your child is mine,¡± Harvey suggested slyly then. Right now, he wanted to hurt Isaac in every way possible¨Che was even willing to make Isaac believe that Irene¡¯s child was his, even if it was not. He will be left fuming, would he not? ¡°No, I can¡¯t.¡± Irene refused anyway. If at all possible, she would rather Isaac never find out about her child. That man had breathtaking anger¨Cmanagement issues¨Cwhat if he lost his temper and hurt her child? She had gone through great lengths to keep her child safe. Any risk was too much risk. Still, Harvey reminded her of something¡­ ¡°Ouch¡­¡± she grunted as she clutched her stomach, suddenly feeling agony as if something was dropping. Harvey gaped. ¡°It hurts? Is the babying?¡± ¡°I think so,¡± Irene said calmly and rose to her feet. ¡°Take me to the hospital.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± he replied, just as Sheryl started to head upstairs with a ss of milk. Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Seeing that they were bothing down, she asked, ¡°Going out?¡± ¡°Yeah, baby¡¯sing,¡± Harvey exined. Sheryl promptly put the milk aside. ¡°I thought we still had a few days¡­¡± 1. Per ¡°Maybe he¡®s getting impatient,¡± Irene breathed through gritted teeth. ¡°Then we need the hospital right now,¡± Sheryl said, helping her stand while Harvey left to get his car. Soon, Irene was rushed to the nearest hospital and taken to thebor room. As shey on the delivery bed, the agony of cramps struck her like a raging tide, and sweat had drenched her ck, silky hair. The scent of blood seemed to waft around her nostrils as the lights over her shed brightly, leaving her feeling dazed. It hurt so much as if her body was being torn apart! Outside the delivery room, Sheryl was anxiously pacing around on the walkway, seized with concern toward her daughter. Despite the advancement of medical technology, delivery was still hell for women, and there was no end to the risks involved. In fact, she was anxious herself despite having lived through it¨Cbecause she was so afraid that Irene would face some mishap. After several hours, a nurse stepped out with an infant. ¡°Is Irene Spencer¡®s family here?¡± Sheryl worriedly came up to her, with Harvey staying on her heels. ¡°How¡®s my daughter?¡± ¡°They are both safe,¡± the nurse replied. Sheryl breathed a sigh of relief, and asked happily, ¡°Is it a boy?¡± The nurse held out the child to her then. ¡°Yes. Born at 1520, weighing 7 pounds, 7 ounces Sheryl happily took the child, as Harvey looked on. Over thest few months, Isaac¡®s temper had been vtile. Every employee could feel the danger and would avoid speaking with him if possible, in fear that they would upset him. The Runaway Groom Chapter 85 The Runaway Groom Chapter 85 Chapter 85 Even Stan Hill¨CIsaac¡®s personal assistant¨Cwas constantly on edge. Nheless, he reported to Isaac the instant he received a certain piece of information. ¡°All the clues point to Sunny City. We¡®ve got nothing even after we searched that ce for so long, but someone called us today with a tip that she was seen at the Sunny City General Hospital.¡± Isaac was wearing a ck shirt loosened at the cor, and a severe look immediately appeared in his eyes. ¡°Get ready.¡± ¡°Are you going personally, sir?¡± Stan asked. Isaac ignored him and coolly said, ¡°You¡®ve been searching for months, but you had nothing... Getting morepetenttely, aren¡®t we?¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Stan kept his head lowered. ¡°I think she¡®s had help. There¡®s no way she could have hidden¡® herself so well if she was alone. Moreover, we had definitive leads that she showed up at Sunny City, but she seemed to disappear into thin air when we looked, only for her to reappear there now¡­ That was when he remembered something else, and it seemed to click in his mind right then. ¡°Harvey Gooding is in Sunny City, isn¡®t he?¡± he pointed out, quickly bing worried about Irene¡®s situation just then. ¡°We¡®ve been so preupied with finding Irene Spencer that we neglected the possibility that Harvey¡®s got his hands on her... Nothing good wille of that if that¡®s the case, right? It¡®s not the first time he¡®s held her captive...¡± Isaac¡®s expression darkened¨Che knew very well that Harvey wanted to win her affection. ¡°That said, Ms. Spencer has managed to escape Harvey several times. I¡¯m sure she could do the same, and it¡®s just a hunch...¡± ¡°It¡®s no hunch.¡± Isaac closed his eyes then. He had been too frustrated that Irene ran away, and never calmed down to think. Stan was right. Irene would not have stayed hidden without help. While she had managed to foil Harvey¡¯s overenthusiastic advances before, she should not be in danger given her wit. Even so, he was worried. ¡°I¡®ll make the preparations,¡± Stan said then. Isaac had a personal helicopter, and it was a quick trip to Sunny City. However, even though they headed straight to the hospital, Irene was nowhere to be found. Harvey had moved quickly to transport Irene away from the hospital once she delivered her baby, and had also scrubbed any records to prevent Isaac from getting any information. ¡°Set up an appointment with Harvey Gooding,¡± Isaac instructed as he stepped out of the hospital. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied. Back at Harvey¡¯s private residence, Irene was resting in bed¨Cit was now time for her postpartum care. Sheryl was cooking something, while Harvey was standing beside Irene¡¯s bed and watching her infant. ¡°His father is a lucky man.¡± Irene ignored him since her stomach still hurt, even as Harvey continued on his own. ¡°I mean, you¡¯d actually dared to cuck Isaac Jefferson for him.¡± Despite Irene¡¯s disinterest in him, Isaac Jefferson was the man every other woman fantasized about marrying. ¡°Why do you keep mentioning that?¡± Irene asked feebly. ¡°Does it please you that much?¡± Harvey did not hide his glee. ¡°Of course. Just mentioning it makes me smile.¡± There were not many jokes one could make about Isaac, let alone humiliate him. Naturally, Harvey felt cathartic whenever he mentioned something that humiliated the man so thoroughly. Bzzt¡­ Harvey¡¯s phone was suddenly vibrating in his pocket, and he whipped it out to see who the caller was. He nced at Irene for a moment just then, but answered it with a raised brow.¡± Mr. Hill.¡± After a slight pause, he turned back to Irene. ¡°Mr. Jefferson wants to see me?¡± Irene was left staring fixedly at Harvey, her eyes widening right then. ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll be there,¡± Harvey replied before hanging up. Sighing, he told her, ¡°Isaac Jefferson ising to Sunny City and asked to meet me. Do you think he¡¯s found you?¡± Irene was panicking slightly already, and held her child protectively. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he probably just wants to test me,¡± Harvey replied. ¡°Anyway, just consider my offer.¡± Irene nced at her son. ¡°Okay.¡± ¡°Rest well for now. I¡®m leaving,¡± Harvey replied. She nodded, and Harvey left the house, heading to the designated venue to meet Isaac. The man was already there, waiting as he arrived. The Runaway Groom Chapter 86 The Runaway Groom Chapter 86 Chapter 86 Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Harvey entered and took a seat. ¡°Long time no see, Mr. Jefferson.¡± He greeted Isaac with a smile that did not reach his eyes. The private room was dark, and Isaac appeared to be lounging¨Cbut the look on his face was inscrutable. ¡°To what do I owe the pleasure?¡± Harvey asked. ¡°I heard that the CEO of Hartman United reneged on your partnership offer?¡± Isaac asked evenly, but it was a direct p to Harvey¡®s face. Still, Harvey knew that Isaac was behind that, andposed himself despite bleeding from the heart. ¡°It¡®s just a partnership¨Cif it falls through, it falls through.¡± Isaac chuckled. ¡°How magnanimous. How much did it cost you?¡± Harvey felt humiliated right then. Isaac was just trying to twist the dagger now! Harvey had always known that the man was swift and decisive, but he came so prepared that he had caught Harveypletely off guard! Moreover, in spite of the devastating losses from that failed partnership, Harvey still had the advantage because he knew where Irene was. ¡°A loss is a loss. It¡®s just money¨CI can always earn more,¡± he stubbornly retorted. ¡°Is that all you came to tell me?¡± Even now, Isaac was still refusing to mention Irene, and replied, ¡°Why else would I do it? Also, your property at Spring Bay might get investigated for construction policy vitions. If an investigation follows, the project would have to be suspended as well...¡± Harvey was pushed over the edge before Isaac was finished, and he growled angrily, ¡°Are you backstabbing me?¡± He could handle the failed partnership, but he had invested so much in Spring Bay that suspending construction alone would leave him with inestimable losses! Isaac appeared perfectlyfortable and unaffected, however. ¡°Business is war. How could you me me for your negligence?¡± Harvey gritted his teeth and heaved in frustration, before turning to leave without a word. He never saw Isaac¡®s carefree look turn into a glower the instant he left. ¡°Get someone to follow him.¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Stan did as he was told immediately. This was all a part of Isaac¡¯s n¨Che never mentioned Irene to Harvey because he knew Harvey would never breathe a word. If he did, Harvey would know his goal and be wary. It would also make Harvey even more tight¨C lipped and use it as leverage against him. Instead of falling on the back foot and being left with no authority at all, Isaac must strike first so that Harvey would panic and mess up. They were in Harvey¡¯s territory, and they must start with the man if they wanted anything. As long as he had Irene, an opportunity would eventually present itself. And just as Isaac had predicted, Harvey was feeling too hot¨Cheaded to care, let alone realize that Isaac had someone tailing him. He first headed to his office, which was left in utter chaos. The string of incidents left an atmosphere of doom and gloom! Harvey cursed endlessly as he tried to salvage the situation, calming down after one night before returning to Irene. He realized that Isaac had done all that for Irene. Trying to force him to concede? He would rather suffer all those losses than to give her up! Once he met Irene again, he flew into an angry rant instantly. ¡°That man is outrageous! How could he be so heinous?!¡± Harvey paced around beside her bed, his hands sped behind his back. ¡°That son of a bitch backstabbed me!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 87 The Runaway Groom Chapter 87 Chapter 87 Irene was feeling uneasy. Somehow, she knew that Isaac would show up in Sunny City anyway. ¡°So, you¡®re giving up?¡± she asked. ¡°No way!¡± Harvey was just getting pumped for a fight against Isaac. ¡°The more he wants to get to you, the more I¡®ll make sure he never does... Nheless, he soon trailed off because he just realized that Sheryl and Irene¡®s son were gone. ¡°Where¡®s your mother and the baby?¡± he asked. ¡°They leftst night,¡± Irene replied¨Cshe did not n to hide that anyway. She had beenpliant over thest few days at the mansion, and they had be very friendly with the guards. Moreover, Harvey was not keeping her as well guarded as he did before, which allowed her an opening. LLL ¡°Do you not trust me?¡± Harvey¡®s face contorted in rage, feeling as if he was betrayed after being so nice to her for months! Irene held his gaze. ¡°It¡®s not as if I don¡®t trust you, but Isaac is here, so I had to do something. What if you¡®d told him about me when you met him yesterday? I¡®m fine if he catches me, but what if he hurts my child?¡± 1 1 1 That was why she had asked Sheryl to take the child away and hide. Even if they were friends in appearance, Irene had never thought so for a second¨Cit was just tit¨Cfor¨Ctat at best. Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. On the other hand, Harvey actually thought that she considered him a friend now, and was naturally stunned that she had been keeping him at arm¡®s length. ¡°You¡®re a heartless bitch!¡± he snapped in frustration, but even as his knuckles cracked, there was a crash from the door, soon followed by objects shattering and screams of pain. Panicking, Harvey rushed downstairs to see that Isaac and his men had stormed into the mansion, having already taken down all the guards Harvey posted around the house. ¡°How did you get here?¡± Harvey eximed in disbelief . He was basically untouchable in Sunny City, and was convinced that Isaac would never reach this ce. ¡°Sure, this ce is so well¨Chidden we never got herest time,¡± Stan said smugly. ¡°Hell, we would never have found it this time even if you didn¡®t lead us here.¡± One must say that Isaac¡®s n to chase the hare and follow it to its den was immensely effective. Harvey narrowed his eyes when he came to a realization.¡± You were following me?¡± Nheless, Isaacpletely ignored him and led him upstairs. Knowing that there was no escape, Irene tried regardless. She tied her bed sheels into a rope to escape, but the door was kicked open just as she reached for the window. Isaac red at her murderously from the doorway. ¡°Going to jump?¡± He smiled. Go on.¡± Irene froze at the window, knowing then that she was not getting away even if she jumped. ¡°No, I won¡®t,¡± she mumbled as she got off the window sill. Isaac kept his expression cool then, hiding his inconsble rage. ¡°What, afraid that you¡®d fall to your death?¡± He strode toward her, and Irene felt terrified even as she watched him. ¡°Don¡®te any closer... ¡°What are you afraid?¡± Isaac kept walking steadily toward her anyway, backing Irene against the wall. Still, she still pretended to be calm. ¡°You signed the divorce papers, didn¡®t you? There¡®s nothing between us now, so please keep your distance...¡± Isaacughed icily. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Irene was still very ill because she had just delivered a child yesterday. Even so, she forced herself to stand her ground. ¡°Why can¡®t you just let me go?!¡± TIT Isaac suddenly grabbed her neck, the darkness looking as if it could devour her even as his fingers clenched.¡± Because it hurts you.¡± ¡°Is that why you insist on staying married? Because you can tie me down?¡± She breathed through her throat with much difficulty. ¡°Yes! I want you to beg for your death!¡± Isaac snarled, and pushed her out of the window. ¡°Argh!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 88 The Runaway Groom Chapter 88 Chapter 88 Stan tried to stop it, but he was toote ¨C Irene had already fallen out of the window. There was a dull thud, but Isaac coolly told him, ¡°Take her away.¡± With that, he turned and left the room. Stan peeked outside the window¨Cit was not exactly high here since it was just the second floor, but anyone falling out from here would still be severely injured. He felt sympathy for Irene, but his heart was not aching for her. She was the one who challenged Isaac, and it was her own fault for running away when the world was her oyster. Everyone had spent months looking for her! Downstairs , Irene was curling up in agony, with her leg being especially painful. She reached out to touch it, and could tell that there was a broken bone. Even so, Stan barked at his men to pick her up unceremoniously¨Ceven a little violently! Irene had no strength to resist, allowing herself to be dragged around like a rag doll. Harvey was left watching helplessly as everything unfolded. While this might be his domain, Isaac came prepared and had numbers on his side. But most of all, Harvey was frustrated by his negligence and Isaac¡®s devious nature! Utterly furious, he growled, ¡°I¡®ll destroy you, Isaac Jefferson!¡± Isaac, however, was not bothered at all, and did not even nce Harvey¡¯s way as he left straightaway. Irene was already frail, and was unconscious by the time she was stuffed into the car. ¡°She¡®s bleeding and probably hurt. Shouldn¡®t we take her to the hospital?¡± Stan asked. ¡°No.¡± Isaac simply replied ¡ª he knew well that a person would not die falling from that height. . 11 It would be even better if she ended up a cripple. She would never be able to run off now! Stan naturally did not try to press Isaac, knowing that he was furious and wanted to punish Irene as terribly as possible. After taking Irene back to Cloud City, Isaac locked her up. She was covered in darkness when she woke up¨Cshe had no idea where she was or how long she was out. She smelled blood on herself and the scent of milk. She was stillctating, but since her baby was not with her, she was left bloated. Her throat was so parched she could not say a word, and it hurt everywhere. There was despair in her eyes¨Cshe knew that things would end horribly once Isaac reached her, but she did not want to die. Her boy was born without a father. He should not have to live without a mother too! As she tried to move her body, the steel door before her suddenly opened. She looked up through her disheveled hair to find Mrs. Watson entering, and hope shone into her eyes. ¡°Mrs. Watson...¡± she rasped. However, Mrs. Watson merely put her food down in front of her, cast her a brief look of sympathy and left without a word. Irene tried to say more, but Mrs. Watson had closed the door in her face, leaving her in darkness again. Her gaze darkened, and she suddenly realized that she did not even have the strength to eat, and simplyy there with an utterly muddled consciousness. N?velDrama.Org content. When Isaac returned to the mansion, he stood in the living room and unbuttoned his jacket while acting unconcerned. ¡°Is she staying put this time?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Mrs. Watson said. ¡°But she¡®s not eating the food I brought her. I don¡®t think she¡®s feeling well.¡± ¡°Keeping her alive is good enough,¡± Isaac coolly replied. His wrath was not about to subside so easily. After she had gone through such lengths to escape him, he just had to lock her up. ¡®Let¡®s see where she would run off to now!¡® Still, Mrs. Watson hesitated for a moment and pointed out, ¡°I saw her injuries. Wouldn¡®t her condition worsen if she¡®s not treated?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 89 The Runaway Groom Chapter 89 Chapter 89 Isaac remained apathetic. ¡°Leave her be.¡± N?velDrama.Org content. As he headed upstairs, Mrs. Watson breathed a long sigh ¨C she was not about to go against him, even if she felt sad for Irene. Moreover, Irene was the one at fault. How could she run away? Isaac had every reason to be angry. The months when Irene was missing was an opportunity for Whitney Cox. ILI Even if Isaac was still ignoring her, she still came every day with her homemade food in an attempt to win his favor again¨Cto fulfill her dreams to enter that mansion as thedy of the house. It was the same today, and Mrs. Watson was used to Whitney showing up constantly. Taking the food containers she brought, she told Whitney, ¡°I¡®m afraid Mr. Jefferson still doesn¡®t want to see you, Ms. Cox. Please leave.¡± Unrelenting, Whitney asked, ¡°Did you say that, or did Isaac?¡± ¡°Mr. Jefferson has told you that on multiple asions. Why would you still ask?¡± Mrs. Watson countered, leaving Whitney speechless. It was obvious that Mrs. Watson abhorred the way Whitney clung to her like a piece of chewing gum stuck to the bottom of her shoe. Isaac had made it thoroughly clear that he had no interest in Whitney, but she kept throwing herself at him anyway. There should be a limit to such shameless behavior! Really wanting Whitney out of sight just then, Mrs. Watson said, ¡°Ms. Cox, Mr. Jefferson is married ¨C please stoping here.¡± Whitney restrained herself and shot back, ¡°I know, but Irene Spencer went missing, didn¡®t she?¡± ¡°Mrs. Jefferson has returned, so please understand that you¡®re being a homewrecker now.¡± Mrs. Watson closed the door behind her when she was finished. She headed to the trash can as usual to throw the food Whitney brought, but soon paused because she saw that the food was plenty nutritious. After some thought, she brought the food to the basement for Irene. Outside , Whitney was standing there nkly for a long while. Coming to her senses and seeing that Mrs. Watson was stepping out again, she promptly caught Mrs. Watson¡®s arm and asked, ¡°Are you serious? Irene Spencer is back?¡± ¡°Why would I lie to you?¡± Mrs. Watson replied. ¡°Mr. Jefferson personally brought her home.¡± Whitney released her then. Why could that woman not die? Why was she showing up again?! She was convinced that sooner orter, she would get Isaac¡®s attention again and win his heart... As long as Irene was not around! That was why Irene must disappear, so that no one woulde between her and Isaac! Even as murder grew in her heart, she feigned politeness and said, ¡°I shall be leaving then, Mrs. Watson.¡± Mrs. Watson simply ignored her and headed towards the back of the mansion, where Irene was held in a junk storeroom beside the garage. Entering and cing the food before Irene, Mrs. Watson said worriedly, ¡°You have to eat, Mrs. Jefferson, or you¡®ll starve to death.¡± Irene, however, felt as if her soul was going to detach from her body. She was on the verge of death, and did not even have the strength to speak. Knowing then that she was in very bad shape, Mrs. Watson decided to ask Isaac for leniency again. ¡°Please promise you won¡®t mess up or upset your husband again, Mrs. Jefferson, and certainly not run away. If you do, I¡®ll speak to him on your behalf again.¡± Seeing hope then, Irene tugged at her pants and breathed despite immense difficulty. ¡°Thank you...¡± Mrs. Watson breathed a sigh and left the storeroom. Outside, Whitney had been watching. Seeing that Mrs. Watson returned inside the mansion, she sneaked inside to see where Mrs. Watson took her food¡­ and soon found Irene lying on the floor and almost dying. Her eyes lit up. So Isaac did not love Irene either. Why would he lock her up like livestock if he did? Tiptoeing inside, she called out, ¡°Irene?¡± Irene looked up with much difficulty. With the light spilling in from outside, Whitney saw that it was indeed Irene despite her filthy condition, and could not helpughing out loud. ¡°Haha! If only you could see what you look like right now!¡± ¡°Why... you...¡± Irene frowned, her pale face appearing dumbfounded by Whitney¡®s appearance. Whitney simply crouched before Irene, her eyes projecting murder. ¡°You should have stayed gone instead ofing back to seduce Isaac.¡± With that, she started to strangle Irene as hard as she could, who had no strength to resist. Seeing that there was no stopping her now, Whitney eximed, thrilled , ¡°I should really thank you! I never would¡®ve met Isaac if not for you... Remember that night when you subbed in for me? He thought I was you. Don¡®t me me for this¨Cdead men tell no tales, and now, Isaac will never know the truth¨C¡± There was a click before she could finish, and the lights overhead were lit, illuminating the dark room so brightly it looked just like daytime. Whitney promptly turned around to find Isaac standing at the doorway! The Runaway Groom Chapter 90 The Runaway Groom Chapter 90 Chapter 90 Whitney¡®s face turned pale even as she stammered, ¡°W Why are you here?!¡± Glowering, Isaac strode forward and kicked her away! ¡°You lied to me!¡± Whitney fell like a rag doll, but promptly pushed herself up in panic. ¡°N¨CNo, I wasn¡®t lying...¡± Isaac had heard everything she said, but she still insisted on lying! The only reason he never punished her was because they shared that night. Now, he just wanted her gone! ¡°Watch her, Mrs. Watson!¡± he bellowed before leaving to call Stan, telling him to head to the mansion right away to deal with Whitney. After hanging up, he turned to Irene, lying on the floor and looking almost lifeless. Hesitating for a moment, he dropped to crouch beside her, and extended a hand pausing for a while, he eventually braced himself to touch her cheek, his tone cracking as he gently called, ¡°Irene Spencer...¡± He never knew that it was her that night¨Chis heart was lest pounding violently at the idea! Even so, Irene¡®s vision was blurring and soon darkened. Seeing that she was unresponsive , Isaac scooped her up in his arms and strode outside, staying calm despite his panic and growling, ¡°Get the car ready, Jimmy!¡± His chauffeur promptly brought the car around, and Isaac carried Irene inside. ¡°Get us to the hospital.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± the chauffeur replied, and raced toward the hospital. They soon arrived, and as a doctor checked Irene from head to toe, Isaac asked worriedly, ¡°She¡®s going to live, isn¡®t she?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± the doctor replied. ¡°She¡®s very weak ¨C probably because she was recently inbor. Initial scans suggest a bone fracture on her left leg, and there¡®s a rupture of muscles as well. That would take a while to heal.¡± Isaac¡®s heart skipped a beat. ¡°What was that? She was recently inbor, you say?¡± ¡°That¡®s what the tests show,¡± the doctor replied earnestly. Restraining the storm brewing in him, Isaac quietly said, ¡°Give her the best treatment and medicine. Make her better.¡± N?velDrama.Org content. ¡°I will do my best,¡± the doctor replied. After that, Irene was wheeled to the operating room where her leg was to be fixed. As Isaac stepped out of the examination room, his steady pace soon became irregr. Irene saved him. LL LL They shared a night of intimacy. And he pushed her off a building. If she ended up crippled... He closed his eyes, having never felt such turmoil before. ¡°Mr. Jefferson,¡± Stan greeted him as he rushed to the scene. ¡°I¡®ve locked up Whitney Cox. How is Ms. Spencer?¡± Thanks to Mrs. Watson, Stan had a general idea of what had happened. Issac took a few seconds to calm himself. ¡°You really are getting better at your job, Stan.¡± Stan quickly bowed his head in apology. ¡°I¡®m sorry for messing up. I did not check thoroughly, allowing Whitney Cox to deceive us.¡± However, they did check, but they could never have known that Whitney had simply hidden the truth that someone was standing in for her. ¡°I don¡®t want to see that bitch ever again. If you can¡®t handle that much, don¡®t show up in front of me ever again!¡± Isaac growled then. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± Stan replied somberly. Naturally, he hated Whitney for pulling the wool over everyone¡®s eyes. Calling herself the woman from that night? She deserved to die just for that! With that, Stan left and took Whitney out from where he kept her. She was a doctor, and malpractice wasmon¨Cit would not be difficult to pin the me on her for malpractice leading to a patient¡®s death. Make it a little serious so that it bes a crime, and it would mean prison. Stan¡®s work was quick and effective¨Ceverything was settled within a day. After it was done, he returned to the hospital to update Isaac. Isaac had been keeping watch the entire night beside Irene¡®s bed, but it was not until the next afternoon when she stirred. She could smell the scent of medicine in the air, and her pupils dted when she saw Isaac. The Runaway Groom Chapter 91 The Runaway Groom Chapter 91 Chapter 91 N?velDrama.Org content. Irene¡¯s heart still pounded with fear as she remembered how that man had pushed her out of the window. Nheless, Isaac asked softly, ¡°Irene Spencer, I have a question: were you at Charity Hospital on the sixth of July?¡± Irene drew a nk, but rasped, ¡°I was working there as a doctor at the time. Isn¡¯t it normal for me to be there?¡± She had no idea why Isaac would talk about that night, but now that Isaac had learned the truth from Whitney, he wanted to double¨Ccheck just to make sure that there was no mistake this time. ¡°In other words, you were there even though you weren¡®t on duty. You were standing in for Whitney Cox, weren¡®t you?¡± Irene pursed her lips. ¡°Yes, and I remember that very well because that was supposed to be our wedding night,¡± she admitted. ¡°You weren¡®t at the mansion when I received Whitney¡®s text, saying that she was busy and asking me to take over her shift. I went to the hospital ¨C¡± ¡°And met a wounded man,¡± ¡°How did you know?¡± Irene narrowed her eyes, cutting her short. ¡°Are you still investigating me?¡± ¡°Just yes or no answers,¡± Isaac told her, but his tone was gentle¨Cas it had been since the start. Irene pursed her lips again. Still, she had no reason to hide anything now that Isaac knew, so she simply showed her hand, that way, Isaac would hate her, quickly divorce her, and finally let her go. ¡°Yes, I met a wounded man. He was being pursued by some assants and threatened me, but I had no idea if he was a viin. He never hurt me, which was enough for me. That¡®s why I decided to help him, and that¡®s when he started to get frisky. I did not resist ¨Cin my head, my husband did not like me, and having sex with that man was a perfect opportunity to make him hate me. That¡®s how I had another man on the night of our wedding, and made you a cuck. That¡®s all there is to it.¡± Isaac knew right then that those were details that only he and the woman from that night would know, and that there was no mistaking it this time. The woman from that night was Irene Spencer. ¡°You never had a boyfriend. Is that the only man you¡®ve been with?¡± he asked despite his pounding heart. After all, he had Stan look into her, and her past was squeaky clean with no rtionships with other men ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene replied, ¡°I was pregnant with his child. Aren¡®t you going to divorce me already? I¡¯m just another disgusting woman.¡± As she held Isaac¡¯s gaze, she thought to herself that she must have pushed him over the edge because of that massive ego of his On the other hand, Isaac was left clutching his chest as an indescribable pain emanated within. The miscarriage she had suffered¡­ Was that baby his? ¡°The doctor told me you were recently inbor. Were you lying about the miscarriage?¡± he asked, hoping dearly that she was lying to him and actually gave birth. In reality, Irene ran away and hid so that he did not find out and hurt her child. After all, he was heinous enough to push her off a building! Turning away, she said, ¡°I never lied¨C1 had twins, and I lost one due to the miscarriage. That¡®s why I ran, because I knew that you were going to be furious if you found out that I was still pregnant. But it all meant nothing, because by yet another stroke of bad luck, the boy ended up stillborn.¡± Inside, she was repeatedly telling herself that she was not being mean to her own child¨Cshe had to lie and hide the truth since another doctor saw that she was recently inbor. On the other hand, Isaac was left pursing his lips. He was almost father to twins, but ended up losing them because of his own ignorance? He tried to speak, but nothing wasing out of his vocal cords, which suddenly seemed as dry as a desert. Even his eyes glinted with tears. He felt like his heart had sunken to the bottom of an abyss. After a long silence, he said nothing and left Irene¡¯s ward. Just as he opened the door, Stan approached him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± Isaac raised a hand, gesturing for him to be silent. Because right now, he needed the quietness. Stan understood and stood aside without a word, knowing right then that his boss was not in his right mind. However, they ended up standing there for a long while, and feeling that his legs were almost getting numb, Stan tried again, ¡°Sir, I¡®ve dealt with Whitney Cox. How is Ms. Spencer?¡± Thetter was his actual concern- did something happen to her? Was that why Isaac appeared so dispirited, and even more so than when she was missing? This was so awkward¡­ However, Isaac said nothing¨Cit was as if he never heard Stan. Stan became very worried, but still refrained from asking¡­ And that was when they both heard a loud thumping from Irene¡®s ward! The Runaway Groom Chapter 92 The Runaway Groom Chapter 92 Chapter 92 Isaac promptly rushed into Irene¡®s ward, where he found her on the floor beside her bed, her stered leg sprawled limply on the floor. Frowning as he moved over to help her up, he restrained his temper and asked, ¡°What are you doing? still trying to run when your foot is in that condition?¡± Irene shook her head. Right now, she had no strength to run even if her legs were fine. Her chest was swelling fromctation, leaving it utterly numb. ¡°I¡®m just thirsty.¡± It was only then that Isaac noticed that her lips were cracked and bleeding from dryness. Sighing, he mildly said, ¡°I¡®ll get it for you.¡± As she was returned to her bed, Irene was left staring on the ceiling and asking feebly, ¡°Isaac Jefferson... Why can¡®t you just let me go?¡± Isaac paused. He alone was aware of his feelings for Irene. However, his ego had prevented him from acknowledging that in the past just because she had been with another man, and he constantly kept those feelings repressed. Now, things were different. It turned out that she was not sleeping around¨Cshe somehow turned out to be the woman he was with that night, and now, he did not have to hide the feelings he harbored for her. As Isaac brought Irene a ss of water, he sat beside her bed and helped her up. Her body was like jelly and utterly feeble, so he had to gather her in his arms and hold the ss beside her lips. Irene drank everything with tiny sips. ¡°Do you want more?¡± Isaac asked after she finished the ss of water. Irene shook her head-she was feeling sleepy. Still, Isaac did not let her go and kept her in his embrace. He was reminded of that night, and remembered how he always found her scent familiar¡­ and now he understood the reason 1 She was the woman who had made him lose all restraint, and he certainly loved the scent which left him intoxicated. On the other hand, Irene closed her eyes and pretended to sleep. She was waiting for Isaac to leave the room, so that she could borrow a nurse¡¯s phone to call Sheryl He never left, however, and she actually fell asleep amidst her pretense. When she opened her eyes again, Isaac was still standing by her bed, so she quickly closed her The miscarriage she had suffered... Was that baby his? lithe doctor told me you were recently inbor. Were you lying about the miscarriage?¡± he asked, hoping dearly that she was lying to him and actually gave birth. In reality, Irene ran away and hid so that he did not find out and hurt her child. After all, he was heinous enough to push her off a building! Turning away, she said, ¡°I never lied¨CI had twins, and I lost one due to the miscarriage. That¡®s why I ran, because I knew that you were going to be furious if you found out that I was still pregnant. But it all meant nothing, because by yet another stroke of bad luck, the boy ended up stillborn.¡± Inside, she was repeatedly telling herself that she was not being mean to her own child¨Cshe had to lie and hide the truth since another doctor saw that she was recently inbor. On the other hand, Isaac was left pursing his lips. He was almost father to twins, but ended up losing them because of his own ignorance? He tried to speak, but nothing wasing out of his vocal cords, which suddenly seemed as dry as a desert. Even his eyes glinted with tears. He felt like his heart had sunken to the bottom of an abyss. After a long silence, he said nothing and left Irene¡®s ward. Just as he opened the door, Stan approached him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson...¡± Isaac raised a hand, gesturing for him to be silent. Because right now, he needed the quietness. Stan understood and stood aside without a word, knowing right then that his boss was not in his right mind However, they ended up standing there for a long while, and feeling that his legs were almost getting numb, Stan tried again, ¡°Sir, I¡®ve dealt with Whitney Cox. How is Ms. Spencer?¡± Thetter was his actual concern ¨C did something happen to her? Was that why Isaac appeared so dispirited, and even more so than when she was missing? This was so awkward¡­ However, Isaac said nothing ¨C it was as if he never heard Stan. Stan became very worried, but still refrained from asking... And that was when they both heard a loud thumping from Irene¡®s ward! Chapter 92 Isaac promptly rushed into Irene¡®s ward, where he found her on the floor beside her bed, her stered leg sprawled limply on the floor. Frowning as he moved over to help her up, he restrained his temper and asked, ¡°What are you doing? still trying to run when your foot is in that condition?¡± Irene shook her head. Right now, she had no strength to run even if her legs were fine. Her chest was swelling fromctation, leaving it utterly numb. ¡°I¡®m just thirsty.¡± It was only then that Isaac noticed that her lips were cracked and bleeding from dryness. Sighing, he mildly said, ¡°I¡®ll get it for you.¡± As she was returned to her bed, Irene was left staring on the ceiling and asking feebly, ¡°Isaac Jefferson... Why can¡®t you just let me go?¡± Isaac paused. He alone was aware of his feelings for Irene.. However, his ego had prevented him from acknowledging that in the past just because she had been with another man, and he constantly kept those feelings repressed. Now, things were different. It turned out that she was not sleeping around¨Cshe somehow turned out to be the woman he was with that night, and now, he did not have to hide the feelings he harbored for her. As Isaac brought Irene a ss of water, he sat beside her bed and helped her up. Her body was like jelly and utterly feeble, so he had to gather her in his arms and hold the ss beside her lips. Irene drank everything with tiny sips. ¡°Do you want more?¡± Isaac asked after she finished the ss of water. Irene shook her head¨Cshe was feeling sleepy. Still, Isaac did not let her go and kept her in his embrace. He was reminded of that night, and remembered how he always found her scent familiar¡­ and now he understood the reason. 1 She was the woman who had made him lose all restraint, and he certainly loved the scent which left him intoxicated, On the other hand, Irene closed her eyes and pretended to sleep. She was waiting for Isaac to leave the room, so that she could borrow a nurse¡¯s phone to call Sheryl He never left, however, and she actually fell asleep amidst her pretense. When she opened her eyes again, Isaac was still standing by her bed, so she quickly closed her eyes again. Isaac saw that, however. ¡°You should eat something now that you¡®re up.¡± Irene opened her eyes and stared at him, utterly confused by what he was doing! Was tormenting her such fun to him? She slowly pushed herself up, with Isaac helping her. Nheless, her tone was still cold. ¡°What are you up to now?¡± Isaac did not bother to exin¨Cit made sense that he was the viin to her now, so he simply looked down on her loftily. ¡°You ran away. Shouldn¡®t I be upset?¡± He never told Irene that he was the man from that night. She worked so hard to keep their children, only to lose them in a physical assault because of his subordinates¡¯ ipetence. Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. She must hate him for that. Moreover, he was not just reluctant to tell her... he was actually afraid to tell her! ¡°You didn¡®t want this marriage¨C¡± ¡°I recall that you signed an agreement with my grandfather,¡± Isaac curtly cut her short, ignoring her resistance. ¡°I hope you can be a person who keeps her promises.¡± He then draped a cardigan over her shoulders before bringing her the food that Mrs. Watson brought. Mrs. Watson had been standing in a corner and watching them¨Cshe actually felt a little indignant that Irene was being so cold to Isaac. ¡°Please, Mrs. Jefferson. Mr. Jefferson has never been this nice to everyone.¡± However, it was mention of the agreement that left Irene feeling deted and speechless. She had signed that agreement, and she was the one who broke it. Be that as it may, she would be immoral to keep to that agreement given the situation¨Cshe had given birth to someone else¡®s child! Would it not be unfair to Isaac to stay married to her? Right now, she must get better to escape her current predicament. She held out her hands to take the bowl from Isaac¡®s hands just then. ¡°Give it to me.¡± Isaac did not, and suddenly said, ¡°I¡®ll feed you.¡± Irene was speechless, and wanted to ask if he was alright. It would be more normal if he was upset with her she actually was unsure what she should do when he was being this nice. ¡°Excuse me¡­ Did your conscience get to you or something?¡± Irene asked while looking at him sideways Was this yet another one of his carrot-and-stick policies implemented? The Runaway Groom Chapter 93 The Runaway Groom Chapter 93 Chapter 93 Isaac nced at Irene¡¯s stered leg and exined, ¡°My anger got the better of me.¡± That was why he had pushed her out of that window. Irene raised her brow¨Cthat was actually his reason to push her, even if she might die? ¡°What if you¡®d killed me?¡± ¡°From that height? You¡®d be a cripple at worst,¡± Isaac said, scooping out a spoonful of oatmeal and blowing at it until it was cooled, before finally holding it out to her. Not used to such kindness, Irene was left staring at him. ¡°It¡®s not poison, is it?¡± It was not as if she was being suspicious¨Cshe just could not get a read on his attitude. Isaac was left holding her gaze for seconds. Was he such a terrible viin to her? As such, he pretended to threaten her. ¡°Not yet. I have to keep you alive to torment you.¡± Irene actually felt relieved by that this was the Isaac Jefferson she knew. With that, she allowed him to feed her, and he patiently did so until she was finished. He then started to scoop a bowl of chicken soup that Mrs. Watson brought, but she waved him off. ¡°I¡®m full.¡± She was worried that she wouldctate even more if she ate too much, and the ensuing swelling would just hurt her further. Isaac then poured her a ss of water, and she took a few sips before lying down. When he helped her, he inadvertently brushed against her breast, causing her to wince. ¡°What¡®s wrong?¡± he asked Irene quickly pulled her nket up to her shoulders and tly replied, ¡°Nothing.¡± Isaac, however, sensed that her breasts were exceedingly stiff when she leaned against him, and her clothes were wet. He was not sure, but had a hunch that she wasctating because she was recently inbor. ¡°Should I get the doctor?¡± he asked. ¡°No,¡± Irene replied¨Cshe was a doctor herself, and knew she would be better after just a few days. It was just an inevitable process. She hesitated for a while, but eventually asked, ¡°May I borrow your phone?¡± Isaac quickly took his phone out without giving any excuses. ¡°There¡¯s no password.¡± Irene made sure that she was typing the number out of his sight before dialing a certain number, and her call was soon answered. ¡°It¡¯s me,¡± she whispered. ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Lulu Adams replied, ¡°Your mom is me. I¡®ll take good care of them.¡± Before Isaac got to her, Irene sent Sheryl to Lulu, knowing that her former upperssman will help her mother so that she did not have to wander around Sunny City, not knowing where to go. ¡°Thank you, Lulu Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. ¡± Before Irene could finish, Zachary te just happened to enter the ward, and he heard her. ¡°Were you talking to Lulu Adams?¡± he quickly asked. Irene did not expect him to suddenly arrive. Her fingers clenching on the phone, she hastily exined, ¡°You¡®re just hearing things.¡± Then, she told Lulu, ¡°I¡®m hanging up.¡± Once she was done, she erased the number before returning the phone to Isaac. However, Zachary knew very well that she said ¡®Lulu¡® Staring at her, he asked, ¡°Irene, have I ever been unfair to you?¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied earnestly. ¡°In that case, can you be honest and tell me where Lulu is?¡± he pressed. Irene, however, had promised Lulu not to. What if she brought trouble to Lulu¡®s doorstep if she told Zachary? ¡°Zachary¡­ I really don¡®t know.¡± Irene lowered her gaze, too guilty to meet his eyes just then. That was the first time Zachary was angry with her. He knew for a fact that she was clearly lying¨Cshe could not even look him in the eye! ¡°Irene-¡± Nheless, when he tried to ask again, Isaac cut him short. ¡°She needs rest.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 94 The Runaway Groom Chapter 94 Chapter 94 Zachary was not about to give up, but he did not keep pressing Irene because Isaac stopped him. In fact, the look on Isaac¡®s face made it clear that he was not okay with that, as he believed Zachary¡®s presence affected Irene¡¯s rest and recovery. ¡°Let¡®s step out for a moment,¡± he said. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. dll Zachary followed unenthusiastically. Isaac frowned, but held out his phone. ¡°Just because you look pitiful.¡± ¡°Oh, look who¡®s talking!¡± Zachary did not hesitate to retort. ¡°Don¡®tbat the whole world for Irene when she runs away, then. There are women everywhere and most of them are in love with you, but you¡®re acting like you can¡®t live without her,¡± His rant quickly stopped before he could finish¨Che sensed a cold aura. Isaac was about to tell Zachary that the logs on his phone were recoverable even after deletion, but Zachary did not seem to care and exposed his Achilles¡® heel! He promptly pocketed his phone and coolly said, ¡°You¡®re no gynecologist, so there¡®s no reason for you toe. Now, get the hell out of here.¡± With that, he turned and headed back to the ward. Knowing that he had made Isaac upset, Zachary quickly exined, ¡°Sorry, that was my bad¨C1 let my temper get to me, so calm down, alright?¡± When he saw that Isaac was ignoring him and opening the door, however, he panicked and caught the hem of Isaac¡¯s jacket. Isaac¡¯s expression darkened right then and he growled, ¡°Let go!¡± Zachary did so fearfully even as he shed an apologetic smile. ¡°Come on, please don¡®t be so petty with little old me... I just wanted to ask, where did you find Irene?¡± He knew that there were not many people that Irene could go to for help, and she may have been hiding where Lulu was hiding. After all, those two used to be close. Zachary¡¯s reaction was certainly quick. Closing the door behind him, Isaac strode off toward the other end of the walkway, with Zachary in tow. There, Isaac stood before a window, keeping a hand in his pocket as he looked out the window. His figure was perfect ¨C broad shoulders, a straight back, and a slim waist, making even the shadow he projected on the floor a sight to behold. Zachary was convinced that if Irene could make things work between them, they were a match made in heaven. After thinking about Isaac¡¯s question, he asked, ¡°What do you want to know about her?¡± ¡°Everything.¡± Zachary carefully chose his words as he began. ¡°She¡¯s an honors student who was outstanding in university, and a professional doctor once she graduated. The head of Charity Hospital admires her, and she is also chaste...¡± He allowed his voice to trail off halfway before making up his mind to give Isaac the truth, so that he would not be so upromising with Isaac now. ¡°Well, she used to be a good girl, and she never had a boyfriend even though many boys liked her on campus. I heard that she received many love letters, but she rejected all advances. Still, I guess things are different now¨Cshe¡®s been with another man and got pregnant. Surely you can¡®t ept someone like her? Just let her go, then.¡± Isaac was still keeping his back to Zachary. No one could see anything apart from his towering figure, let alone his reaction. ¡°She was pregnant with twins?¡± he asked evenly after a while. Zachary nodded. ¡°Yes. She lost one during her miscarriage, but kept the other with everything she could. Judging from the timeframe, she should be going intobor around this week... So, did the child make it?¡± Isaac actually flinched ¨C his back arching as he kept himself standing by holding one hand against the window sill. ¡°What¡®s wrong? Are you sick?¡± Zachary asked, walking up to check on him. Isaac waved him off, gesturing for him to note closer. He was simply heartbroken-he was the one who had killed his own children. And the woman he considered filthy? The woman whom he humiliated? It was the woman who held the key to his heart. He never knew regret before in life, but with Irene, he now did. The Runaway Groom Chapter 95 The Runaway Groom Chapter 95 Chapter 95 Isaac regretted his failure to recognize the right woman, and losing his own children as a result of that. The punishment was so severe that someone as gritty as him had trouble shouldering it! ¡°She lost the other child too. Don¡®t mention children in front of her so that she won¡¯t feel hurt. ¡°His voice was quiet but carried a hint of raspiness. Zachary sighed¨Che was not actually surprised. ¡°It¡®s a miracle to keep a twin alive when the other dies. Even if she¡®s worked so hard to protect it, the risk of infection was just too much, and there was no assurance that the abortion surgery did not hurt her womb. Still, it¡®s no loss ¨C I¡®ve been telling her from the start not to keep it because she doesn¡®t even know the father. I can¡®t understand what she¡®s thinking, insisting on delivering the baby anyway and raising her as a single mother.¡± Isaac¡®s heart could split right then. Irene did all she could to protect their child even if it risked his ire¨Cher courage and resolve was there for all to see. ¡°Alright, I¡®ve answered however I can. Now, can you tell me where you found Irene?¡± Zachary asked-he was not about to forget his purpose. Isaac did not answer, but after a while, he composed himself and passed his phone to Zachary. ¡°Restore the logs. You¡®ll find the number she called.¡± Zachary¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. Once he got the phone, he worked quickly and soon restored the logs, finding the number he wanted. Still, he hesitated for a moment before calling it, suddenly realizing his breathing was unstable. He worked hard to breathe and then dialed anyway. On the other end, Lulu appeared confused when she heard Zachary¡¯s voice over the phone when Irene called her. She was spacing out, his voice lingering in his mind although Irene had already hung up. It had been years, but she still recognized his voice-it was just so familiar. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. ¡°Wah!!!¡± The baby on the bed suddenly started crying, and she quickly scooped him up in her arms as she regained her senses. At the same time, Sheryl arrived with a milk bottle. ¡°Must be hungry.¡± ¡°I¡®ll feed him,¡± Lulu replied as she took the bottle, letting a drop of milk trickle over the back of her hand to test its temperature before feeding the baby. ¡°Has he been named yet?¡± she asked. ¡°He only has Tommy as a nickname for now,¡± Sheryl replied. Irene had marked the child in remembrance of the other even if it never saw the world, it had certainly existed. Still, Lulu chuckled. ¡°Irene¡¯s a good doctor, but she¡¯s really bad with names. Well, it¡¯s just a nickname¨C be more serious with his proper name.¡± She was clearly dissing the baby¡®s name for being terrible, and Sheryl smiled. She watched tenderly as Lulu cradled the child in her arms, he was still very young, and his face was a little wrinkly. But in her eyes, he was her beautiful grandson anyway. ¡°He resembles Irene, doesn¡®t he?¡± ¡°He¡®s still so young. How could you tell?¡± Lulu asked, studying the baby¡®s face just then. ¡°Well, no matter who he resembles, he¡®ll share herst name,¡± Sheryl replied. Lulu did not try to argue against that. ¡°It¡®s only right after Irene went through so much to bring him to this world.¡± Bzzt... Lulu¡®s phone started ringing just then. Sheryl took the child off her arms and said, ¡°You should answer it.¡± Picking up her phone and seeing that it was the number Irene had just called her with, she was certain that it would be Irene again, so she answered it with a smile. ¡°Irene...?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 96 The Runaway Groom Chapter 96 Chapter 96 Zachary¡¯s breaths turned ragged at the sound of the familiar voice. He tried to speak, but his throat was suddenly too dry to do so. On the other end, Lulu thought Irene did not hear her, and called out again. ¡°Irene...?¡± Allowing himself a moment to steady his breathing, Zachary eventually said, ¡°I¡®m not Irene.¡± Lulu was stunned, but hung up at the next instant, holding her phone and panicking. Sheryl was watching and could feel her tension, so she asked worriedly, ¡°What¡®s wrong? Is Irene in danger?¡± She still was not aware that Isaac had taken Irene back to Cloud City, and simply presumed that she was still under Harvey¡®s custody. Lulu could only shake her head. ¡°Well, what¡¯s wrong,¡± Before she could finish, Lulu¡®s phone was ringing again. This time, she simply stared at the shing screen without answering. ¡°Why aren¡®t you answering?¡± Sheryl asked, puzzled. ¡°It¡®s not Irene,¡± Lulu replied, and left the room. Her phone was still ringing even when she arrived at the balcony, and the sound seemed to mess with her mind. Zachary was relentless-he would keep calling if she did not answer. After thinking about it for a while, Lulu answered, and Zachary promptly said, ¡°Don¡®t hang up. Lulu was silent for a while, before finally asking, ¡°Is Irene alright?¡± ¡°I don¡®t want to talk about her¨C just answer me honestly, where are you right now?¡± Zachary asked urgently. When Lulu did not respond, Zachary lost hisposure. ¡°You left without a word! It¡¯s like you disappeared without a trace! I had to look for you everywhere... Can¡®t you at least say something for the sake of our rtionship?¡± Lulu hung her head. ¡°We¡®re not meant for each other.¡± ¡°Don¡®t give me that! I want to see you¨Ctell me where you are!¡± Zachary¡¯s voice became louder in aggravation. ¡°It was over the moment I decided to leave you,¡± Lulu said quietly. ¡°Can¡®t we just live our separate lives?¡± ¡°No!¡± Zachary was almost bellowing. ¡°A rtionship goes two ways! It¡¯s not a dictatorship!¡± Lulu was not about to keep arguing, so she quickly changed the topic. ¡°Irene is still very weak. You¡¯re with her, so take good care of her -¡± ¡°She has people tending to her¨Cshe doesn¡¯t need me at all.¡± Seeing her reluctance to say anything, Zachary snapped, ¡°I¡®ll find you with a GPS tracker. Run away again, and you¡®ll have my eternal spite!¡± Lulu took a deep breath, but realized that she should at least say something because they used to be together. ¡°I¡®m in Sunny City.¡± Zachary was delighted to see her relent. ¡°I¡®ll apply for leave and head over immediately.¡± ¡°Fine,¡± Lulu replied. With that, Zachary saved her number in his phone and returned the phone to Isaac before rushing out of the hospital. Meanwhile, Lulu returned inside the house to find Sheryl changing cloth diapers for Tommy. She was not using disposable diapers because she believed them to be damp and stuffy. Even if cloth diapers needed washing and were troublesome, Irene paid her expressly to take good care of Tommy He was Sheryl¡®s grandchild, and she would therefore do her best! Lulu approached her then. ¡°Sheryl...¡± Sheryl smiled. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do you need something?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Lulu admitted to it right away. ¡°I broke up with my boyfriend years ago, but he keeps bugging me, which is very annoying. I¡®m going to tell him that I¡®m married and that Tommy is my son, so that he¡®d stay away¡­ Is that alright?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Sheryl replied without hesitation Although the child belonged to Irene alone in her mind, Sheryl also could see how close Irene was with Lulu. Given thetter¡¯s care for Tommy and herself, she certainly could help that much. ¡°Thank you.¡± Lulu smiled. ¡°Hey, we should be thanking you instead,¡± Sheryl replied politely. ¡°I would¡®ve no idea what to do with myself in this unfamiliar city.¡± ¡°Alright, then let¡®s not get too formal since we¡¯re no strangers,¡± Lulu said. ¡°I need to leave for workter. What would you like for dinner? I can get it on the way back...¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine. Just focus on your work¨CI¡®ll just cook something for myself.¡± Sheryl was all too aware of how kind Lulu could be, but she did not want to impose.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. The Runaway Groom Chapter 97 The Runaway Groom Chapter 97 Chapter 97 Luluughed. ¡°It¡®s alright. You don¡®t have to be cagey around me¨C just treat me like you would treat Irene.¡± Meanwhile, Sheryl gently rocked Tommy so that he would fall asleep, before turning back to Lulu. ¡°Irene is a mother now. Maybe you should consider marriage... A real marriage, I mean.¡± Lulu had to blink back tears just then it was not as if she thought that Sheryl was meddling. Instead, she was being emotional because that was what her ownte mother had told her before. And now, her own mother could never bug her again. She smiled but did not respond to Sheryl¡®s suggestion. Meanwhile, Zachary arrived in Sunny City at top speed, reaching it before sunrise. There, he waited at the ce where Lulu said they would meet. When it was time, Lulu appeared with Tommy in her arms. Zachary had not slept, and he had dark circles under his eyes. He did not pay any attention to the child she was holding¨Call his attention was on Lulu. She was a lot skinnier than before. Rising from his seat, he held her gaze and said her name with echoing sentiment, ¡°Lulu.¡± Lulu said nothing and sat opposite him, while Zachary was smiling. He was happy to see her. What other reason would he need? ¡°I missed you every moment since you left me.¡± Lulu felt herself straining to hold her resolve even as she looked at him. Nheless, she stopped herself from relenting and said cruelly, ¡°I¡®m married. This is my child.¡± It was a p to Zachary¡®s face! That was when he looked at the child in her arms, his pupils dting as his gaze darkened. ¡°W¨CWhat? You¡®re married?!¡± He sprang to his feet, eximing, ¡°I don¡®t believe you!¡± He was convinced that Lulu loved him, and would never marry another man, let alone have his child. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. Even if she did leave him, he believed that Lulu would have her reasons, but it would never be because of another man! ¡°Don¡¯t try to dissuade me with this. I¡®d never believe you!¡± Lulu snapped, ¡°Don¡¯t be so loud, You¡¯d wake ¡®Tommy.¡± Zachary was left caught off guard, and when he came to his senses to look at the baby again, he asked, ¡°His name is Tommy?¡± Lulu nodded, and kept trying to dissuade him. ¡°Tommy really is my child. I never said goodbye because I know that I¡®ve wronged you. I¡®m sorry¨Cforgive me for being fickle and leaving with another man, betraying our rtionship and your feelings. Please forgive me.¡± Zachary¡®sposure cracked at her solemn tone. ¡°Are you really bailing on me?¡± Lulu lowered her head, pretending that she was brushing her nose against Tommy¡¯s just so that she did not have to look at Zachary. ¡°Yes,¡± she replied tly. Zachary¡®s hands balled into fists at her sides, but while he never resorted to harsh words, his tone was still severe. ¡°You could have told me that you had another man. Did you have to leave without a word? Leaving me hanging?¡± ¡°I¡®m sorry...¡± ¡°I don¡®t need apologies!¡± Zachary bellowed, and stormed out of the cafe. When he was gone, Lulu¡®s disguise fell apart and her expression turned sorrowful. It was over between her and Zachary, and she felt miserable. 1 But she had to do it. Allowing herself a moment to let her breathing turn even, she left with Tommy. Meanwhile, Irene received an invitation at the hospital. It left her frowning after she read it! The Runaway Groom Chapter 98 The Runaway Groom Chapter 98 Chapter 98 Irene was frowning because Harvey was the one who had sent her the invitation to an art exhibition he was organizing! What was his purpose? What did he want? She could not tell. ¡°What¡®s on your mind?¡± Isaac asked as he entered to find her pensive with a card in her hand. Holding out his hand, he asked, ¡°What is that?¡± Irene passed it to him nonchntly. ¡°Courtesy of Harvey Gooding.¡± Isaac frowned at the mention of the name, and after reading it, he asked, ¡°Are you going?¡± Initially, Irene had no such intention since she was not as friendly with Harvey as she would like to think However, to disgust Isaac and make him willing to divorce her, she said, ¡°Yeah.¡± Isaac pursed her lips. He had no idea what Irene was thinking, but he certainly did not want her to go¨C not after Harvey tried to im her for himself on more than one asion. N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Moreover, the man was hardly cultured even if he graduated from a famous university. He would not even be able to tell between M and M! The art exhibition was nned with ulterior motives in the first ce. ¡°You should be resting as per your postpartum care routine.¡± He tried toe up with an excuse. ¡°I¡®m going,¡± Irene insisted. The more he did not want her to do it, the more eager she would be to do it just to upset him. If he demanded ck, she would take white! Isaac was left staring at her silently, but she simply turned away and repeated staunchly, ¡°I¡®m going.¡± ¡°Fine,¡± Isaac replied, seemingly seeing through her just then. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you¨CI¡®d be worried if you went alone.¡± Irene was speechless for a while, but soon told him, ¡°You should get back to work. I know you¡®re a busy man, but Mrs. Watson is here with me. Don¡¯t worry I won¡¯t leave again until you¡¯ve agreed to divorce me.¡± In the end, she understood very well that as long as he refused to divorce her, she would never feel peace even if she escaped. There was every chance that he could capture her again, not to mention she could not run away with a broken foot even if she wanted to¨Chis vignce was simply overkill. The only thing she could do to lead a peaceful life was to make Isaac let her go on his own ord It was no exaggeration to say that she was convinced he was nuts-he was unhappy with their marriage in the first ce, so why was he so obsessed to hold on to it now? ¡°I¡¯m your husband, and it¡®s my responsibility,¡± he said as if it made perfect sense, and Irene certainly could not refute it when they were legally married. Her lips twitched, but nothing came to mind, and so they went together after getting the doctor¡®s approval. She was still in her postpartum phase and keeping warm was necessary, which includedyers and a cap. A nurse wheeled her out since her foot was still stered, and required a crutch or a wheelchair to move thetter was preferable since she had recently given birth. That was when Isaac scooped her up in his arms. She blinked, surprise showing in her crystalline gaze as she batted her eyshes. ¡°What are you doing? The wheelchair is right there.¡± ¡°Jimmy will put it in the car,¡± Isaac said, not caring about her displeasure¨Che wanted her in his arms. Irene¡®s arms were dangling at her sides when he deliberately loosened his grip. Terrified, thinking that he was dropping her, she quickly wrapped her arms around his neck as her heart raced. ¡°Are you really strong enough? Don¡®t push yourself! I would really be a cripple if you dropped me again!¡± Isaac loved every moment that she was holding him, and was smiling smugly. Looking down at her, he quietly asked, ¡°You¡®d know if I¡®m strong, wouldn¡®t you?¡± Irene was confused, and once again wondered if he really was nuts. ¡°How would I know?¡± Isaac said pointedly, ¡°You¡®d just know.¡± Irene had no idea what he was getting at, and simply thought it a mimunication. As they stepped outside the hospital, Isaac held her even tighter so that she would not catch a cold. Jimmy the chauffeur opened the door to let them in, and he gently ced her in the car and straightened her clothes. Irene looked up to find the serious, doting look on her face, and suddenly felt mystified¡­ but she dispeled the thought soon enough. A man who pushed her off a building without caring for her life, being nice? She really doubted that. The Runaway Groom Chapter 99 The Runaway Groom Chapter 99 Chapter 99 As Irene¡¯s expression turned indifferent, Isaac asked her, ¡°Are you cold?¡± ¡°No,¡± she replied simply, having no intention to say another word. Isaac was more or less dispirited by her coldness, but tolerated and empathized. She had lost their children and was in the middle of her postpartum phase, and the sheer spite she must be holding after he pushed her off a building was all too understandable. He was willing to spend some time to let her warm up to him. After helping her into the car, he got in from the other door. ¨C Once they arrived at the destination, the chauffeur alighted and took the wheelchair from the trunk, while Isaac got out as well to carry Irene, putting her in the wheelchair along with a nket to keep her feet warm. Irene looked up and thought then that Harvey knew how to pick a good spot: the Old Gates of Cloud City was a national heritage site, preserved through the ages. One could smell the history just from standing there! As Isaac wheeled her inside, they saw that many other cars were parked outside as well ¡ª Harvey has invited many others, Soon, they were in the exhibition hall. When Irene saw the exhibits, she was left spacing out for a moment, and more or less understood why Harvey had put together the exhibition. When she first arrived in Sunny City, she took over an art studio. Harvey hadter shut it down and erased every trace so that Isaac did not find any. She had left many paintings back at the studio. So was this what Harvey was up to? Annoying Isaac? She raised a brow at the thought¨Cso be it. Hell, she would be spared a lot of hassle if Isaac divorced her over this. Harvey was having a conversation with several guests when he spotted their arrival, and came to them. N?velDrama.Org content. ¡°Wee, Mr. Jefferson. Oh, sorry, I think I forgot to send you an invitation too,¡± he said, even though he had put together the exhibition for Isaac. After all, he knew that the man would definitelye. Isaac gave him a cool sideways nce. ¡°We¡¯re married, so an invitation to her is an invitation to me.¡± He put clear emphasis on the word ¡®married¡®-a perfect retort against Harvey¡¯s dissing. Though Harvey was annoyed, he did not show it. It was not the time to be angry, because the best is yet toe. ¡°Oh, you¡®re such an entertainer, Mr. Jefferson. Everyone else gets married normally, but you¡®d rather have a secret marriage instead-I guess Trene is really that embarrassing for you. that vou don¡¯t want to be seen in public with her.¡± He swiped back at Isaac with a backhandment. Isaac did not turn directly, but he had lowered his gaze to Irene. Not many were aware of their secret marriage¨Ccertainly not Harvey. Even if he could see now that they were married, he should not have known that he was keeping it a secret! Harvey could see what he was thinking, and smugly said, ¡°Irene told me.¡± Isaac¡®s heart sank, and he actually felt ufortable. She told him? Harvey kept smiling as he turned toward Irene. ¡°Are you alright?¡± Irene nodded. Harvey kept smiling. ¡°Shall I give you a tour, although I¡®m sure you¡®re familiar with the works here?¡± ¡°Of course, we¡®re here for the excitement,¡± Irene said. She could well have told him, ¡®Don¡®t keep us waiting¨Cy your cards already, instead of sparring with words. ¡°Alright then. The best ones are further inside.¡± Harvey appeared utterly enthusiastic as he led the way. They soon arrived at the center hall, where the paintings hung on the walls were covered in white cloth. The room swirled with an atmosphere of mystery! Irene then remembered a certain painting she drew, and turned toward Harvey just then! Harvey grinned. ¡°Did you forget the months you spent at my ce?¡± Turning toward Isaac, heughed without a care. ¡°I love this painting to the bone, Mr. Jefferson. You really should take your time to admire it when it¡®s unveiled!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 100 The Runaway Groom Chapter 100 Chapter 100 Harvey was provoking and bragging at Isaac, which left Irene feeling unusually guilty, though she had no idea why she felt that way. Meanwhile, it turned out that Harvey had invited everyone rich and important to the art exhibition. While it appeared to be a grand asion, many artists who had some degree of reputation could put together something like that as well. One should mention here that the works of anonymous artists tend not to receive admiration, let alone be bought at overpriced rates. As such, since most of the art pieces on show had no signatures, someone asked, ¡°Harvey, where did you find these paintings? There¡®s no signature or anything...¡± Harvey simply smiled. ¡°Patience. You will soon understand the value of these pieces.¡± T ¡°You had better not disappoint us. I would acknowledge the skill and aesthetic of the pieces, but if the artist is unknown, it will never be up to standard.¡± Harvey kept smiling. ¡°Now that depends on...¡± He allowed his voice to trailed off as he turned toward Isaac. Isaac never looked at him, however, he was engrossed with the paintings. He was no patron of the arts, but he admired those paintings, because they seemed to speak straight to a person¡¯s heart. Once everyone arrived, Harvey took the stage, acting mysterious as he spoke, ¡°I have two pieces as my piece de resistance¨Cone will be put up for auction, and anyone may bid for it if you¡¯re interested. The second piece, however, is the gem of this exhibition and not for sale.¡± ¡°Quit acting all mysterious!¡± someone snapped impatiently. ¡°Show us already!¡± Harvey personally unveiled the painting, and after everyone spotted the simple ¡®K¡® signature, and began to admire the painting. It was a portrait of a pregnant woman standing by the window. White curtains veiled half her visage, and she was wearing a gown over her swelling belly. Though her beauty was almost concealed, the silhouette was clear enough to show the motherly love in her eyes, which shone as brightly as the stars. One could not help being captivated. Isaac immediately recognized the person in the painting, because it was obviously Irene. His knuckles clenched and soon eased this was his first time seeing her pregnant, It certainly did not dull her beauty, but her air of tenderness was something he had never seen before That was when Harvey said, ¡°This painting is the work of a famous artist, but thedy portrayed makes it far more valuable. Also, this is the piece which is avable for sale, and the Starting bid will be 40 million dors.¡± In fact, the portrait was the work of an artist he had hired to draw a portrait of Irene. While she was under his custody, she would kill time by painting. That was when Harvey found out that she was as good a doctor as she was a painter. It made him admire her more. Hence, to have a keepsake of her pregnancy, he thought that he should draw her. He was no artist, however, and Irene could not draw herself. Even if photos offered a clear image, itcked mood and aesthetics, As such, he worked hard to earn Irene¡®s approval, giving him permission to hire K to paint a portrait of her pregnancy. Irene agreed to it, because she was eager to save something of her pregnancy for the sake of posterity. Back at the present, the crowd was in an uproar. Kwas a famous artist, but his works never sold upward of a million. When it was obvious that Harvey was scalping, someone snapped immediately, ¡°Did you lose your mind, Harvey? Do you really want money so badly you¡®d sell the painting of some unknown woman for 40 million dors?!¡± Harvey was perfectly confident and shot back, ¡°Others would know to appreciate fine art and its value, even if you don¡®t.¡± As he spoke, he was darting nces at Isaac. ¡°Are you interested, Mr. Jefferson? If you¡®re not, I don¡®t mind keeping it beside my bed and admiring it every night before I sleep.¡± Irene frowned. She could feel the lust in Harvey¡®s words! ¡°I¡®ll buy it,¡± Isaac said. N?velDrama.Org content. ¡°I expected nothing less from someone as generous as you, Mr. Jefferson. Still, this is an auction, and the highest bidder wins!¡± Harveyughed. After losing so much to Isaac, he needed to get something back, at least. ¡°41 million dors,¡± someone shouted just then Naturally, Harvey had arranged for that person to do so ahead of time! The Runaway Groom Chapter 101 The Runaway Groom Chapter 101 Chapter 101 Harvey had made the arrangement to force Isaac into making a higher bid. Whatever happened, he would make sure to slice a fat chunk of money from that man, because it took one to know one! It did not even matter if Isaac loved Irene-given the man¡¯s usual style, he would never allow a portrait of his own wife to fall into a stranger¡¯s hands. Moreover, it was proof that he was cucked, since Irene was pregnant with another man¡¯s child. The portrait was simply a reminder to Isaac that she had been with another man, even bearing her child! He had a hunch that once Isaac brought it home, he would tear it into pieces! Meanwhile, the crowd was in utter chaos. Everyone present was rich, but it was not as if their money was made out of thin air! Was that simple portrait worth over 41 million? They just could not understand! Moreover, Isaac was a champion who would never suffer losses when ites to business, and the fact that he would spend that much money to buy that painting made everyone properly appraise it. On the other hand, Isaac could see what Harvey was up to, but he did not mind it. Money did not matter-the portrait mattered far more than that to him. It was proof that their children existed. ¡°50 million,¡± he said, raising the bid, leaving the crowd gasping. That was certainly far beyond what they would pay for that painting-and they had already thought so at the starting bid. Beside him, Irene was stunned to hear him make the bid, and she turned to look at him. ¡°It¡¯s not worth that much money.¡± N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Isaac simply smiled and said nothing-worth was in the eye of the beholder, and for him, that painting was priceless. That was why he would spare no expenses! At the same time, Harvey felt the corner of his eye twitching in confusion. He knew that Isaac would be eager to buy that painting, but for 45 million at best! That was why the man he had arranged to raise the bid just increased the bid amount by a million, so that he would raise it on his own. He just did not expect Isaac to simply push it up to 50 million, an amount far beyond estimated! Was he that vengeful a man that he would throw away all that money just to settle a grudge?! He hence announced the new auction amount, because he was eager to see how far Isaac could go! ¡°51 million.¡± Harvey tried to keep it low, while offering Isaac more space to raise the bid -he was a little afraid to mess up and shoot himself in the foot! Isaac certainly knew what Harvey was up to, but he could not care less.¡±60 million.¡± Harvey lost allposure right then. ¡°What¡¯s this, Mr. Jefferson?¡± Isaac leveled him an impassive look. ¡°You sell, i buy. It¡¯s that simple.¡± ¡°65 million,¡± Harvey snarled through his teeth right then-not caring about making a show now! ¡°70 million,¡± Isaac replied without batting an eye. Harvey was speechless, and no longer had the courage to raise the bid. He was a businessman who valued profit above all, and he could not afford to push when he did not have a read on Isaac at all. Sure, Isaac was rich, but logically speaking, he should not be squandering his riches no matter how humongous his ego was. ¡°Sold!¡± Harvey dered, since no one would make any bids now. Through it all, Irene was actually left confused as to what Isaac¡¯s intentions were. The portrait was never worth that much money, but she would not stop that man from biting that bullet. However, she could not abide with Harvey using her to con Isaac! Right now, she had a child to raise, and Sheryl could not work. She decided to take her cut. ¡°Harvey, that¡¯s supposed to be my painting, isn¡¯t it? Why are you auctioning it off instead?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 102 The Runaway Groom Chapter 102 Chapter 102 At that moment, Harvey realized that he had actually forgotten about that little fact. Back when the painting was done, he had promised to give it to Irene for free. Still, under the impression that she was on his side, he asked, ¡°Shall we speak in private?¡± After all, Isaac had pushed her off a building, leaving her with a broken foot. Reasonably speaking, she must hate him, and the fact that he was conning so much money. from Isaac should please him. ¡°We can talk here,¡± Irene said, but she certainly did not protest that Harvey was tricking Isaac for his money. However, she felt as if Harvey was using her, and she should get a cut. She never valued money that much before, but circumstances were different now-she had no ie, and she needed a lot of money for Tommy and her mother¡¯s living expenses. She must think for their sake. Harvey could see what she was getting at, and simply said right in Isaac¡¯s face, ¡°30 percent. How about that?¡± He had lost too much money because of Isaac, but he also knew where to draw the line even if he did put the art exhibition together just to mess with the man. Irene was no greedy soul either, and she was actually surprised that Harvey would offer that much. She just wanted a solid amount of money which she could send to Sheryl, so that her mother and Tommy would not have to worry about money for a while. ¡°You¡¯re not satisfied?¡± Her silence left Harvey uncertain about her position-perhaps she thought the distribution unfair? ¡°No, I¡¯ll take it,¡± Irene simply said then, since it was far more than what she could imagine. Meanwhile, Isaac was still standing behind Irene, but he appeared unconcerned. Was he such a menace to these two? They were already discussing how they would share the profits even before he paid up¡­ and right in front of him at that! Still, he found the cost worth it at the thought that some of the money would simplynd in Irene¡¯s pocket. ¡°I have onest item. Would you happen to be interested?¡± Harvey was grinning. N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Isaac ignored him, and started to wheel Irene elsewhere. Harvey was not at all upset he had just made a killing, and that was enough to leave him in a very good mood. He started to follow them despite their lukewarm reaction to his presence, as if it was not awkward at all. ¡°I¡¯ll personally deliver the painting to you tomorrow. By the way, what do you think about most of the pieces you see around you?¡± While Isaac ignored himpletely, Harvey did not hold back his eagerness to offer introductions. ¡°Would you like to hear about the person who drew these pieces?¡± Irene looked up at Harvey again. What was he up to this time? Was he not done squeezing Isaac for money? Noticing her gaze, Harvey smiled. ¡°What¡¯s with that look? Missing me already?¡± Irene was speechless, and wondered why men could not act more normal. First, it was Isaac, and now Harvey! They were all nuts! Saying that right in Isaac¡¯s face was nothing less than pure provocation! ¡°You really want to die, don¡¯t you?!¡± Isaac snarled-this was the first time he had ever flipped out in public. Harvey was not afraid, however, as he chose his words properly. After all, Isaac was showingplete disinterest in the paintings exhibited, so he had to direct their conversation toward ¡®Now, now. I¡¯m not as narcissistic as you think. Look at this painting if you doubt me, Mr. Jefferson,¡± he said as he unveiled the other hidden painting. It was a portrait of a person¡¯s profile as well, but this one was of Harvey himself and not Irene. The details on his profile were immacte, and the aesthetic seemed to overflow! ¡°Did K draw this too?¡± someone asked. Harvey shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m afraid not. Like I said before, this is my personal treasure and not for sale after all, a beautiful woman painted it for me.¡± you As he spoke, he threw a nce at Isaac and chuckled. ¡°What is that woman like? Would care to hazard a guess, Mr. Jefferson?¡± Isaac stared at his eyes as dark as the abyss. Harvey would not go so far to tease him if it were any other woman. But it was clear that the man was filled with confidence that he would take notice of the painter. And the only woman whom Isaac himself would ever take notice of was Irene. Still, Irene Spencer? A painter? The Runaway Groom Chapter 103 The Runaway Groom Chapter 103 Chapter 103 Irene Spencer was a great doctor, a dancer, and a pianist. And now, a painter? Isaac actually doubted it-those other talents already made her plenty impressive. In fact, it was already impressive for the average individual to have two expertise. On the other hand, Harvey was getting smug because he could tell that Isaac missed his point, Heughed out loud, because he knew something Isaac did not. ¡°I heard that some artists only draw their beloved. Do you think that this artist loves me, Mr. Jefferson?¡± Irene scowled. ¡°You forced me to do it. I don¡¯t¡­¡± She paused mid-sentence-why should she even exin herself? In fact, she needed Isaac to hate her and divorce her right now! Hence, switching gears, she said, ¡°I mean, you were pushy, but I definitely wanted to draw you.¡± It was basically acknowledging that she was in love with Harvey. Despite it being aplete lie, those who hear that might not agree. Harvey actually did a double take, but glee soon appeared on his face. Turning toward Isaac with a smug grin, he eximed, ¡°Did you just get cheated on, Mr. Jefferson? Haha!¡± Isaac might have been able to bear with all of Harvey¡¯s antics until now¡­ but not this, He was well and truly furious. Even if he was already tolerant toward Irene, her words left him seething. She could throw tantrums and hate him, but he would not suffer from her messing around with other men! That was his invible limit-he did not want her interested in other meni, or to flirt with them! However, he kept acting nonchnt despite his rage, and set his mind on getting back at Harvey right then. That man was persistent, and Isaac would be a fool if he did nothing! Original from N?velDrama.Org. With that, he wheeled Irene out of the building. ¡°Leaving already, Mr. Jefferson? Not getting another look?¡± Harvey called out, adding more fuel to the fire. Isaac scooped Irene up in his arms and put her inside the car as he did when they arrived. The journey back to the hospital was quiet, and it was almost suffocating to be in the car just then. Irene knew then that he was very angry just then, and asked tentatively, ¡°Are you upset?¡± Isaac was not looking at her, but the car was so silent one could hear themselves breathe! When Jimmy the chauffeur arrived at the hospital, Isaac once again carried her out of the car, quietly moving her to the ward and putting her in bed. Then, ring straight into her eyes, ¡°You were sincere about drawing a portrait for Harvey Gooding, weren¡¯t you?¡± Irene inched away from him and said coldly, ¡°Of course. I was staying in his house for months. in Sunny City. It¡¯s only natural to develop feelings¡­ Ah!¡± She was pushed and pinned against the bed right then. Fortunately, the bedding was very soft and it did not hurt her, though she was certainly startled. ¡°What are you doing?¡± She returned Isaac¡¯s re and tried to push herself up, but he threw himself on top of her, preventing her from getting up. Irene paled in panic. ¡°W-What are you doing?! Get off me!¡± She kept pushing him with both hands in resistance, but Isaac simply caught her wrists and held them over her head, and leaned in to kiss her lips. Irene¡¯s eyes widened, her pupils dting in shock! She quickly came to her senses and turned away, but Isaac held her chin to stop her from moving. With one foot injured, she tried to kick him with the other, but Isaac quickly sensed her intentions and used his own legs to restrain her free leg. He had to move his knees up to her groin to do it, making her flush in frustration and embarrassment! At the same time, Isaac¡¯s kiss was not gentle-it was punishment, a deliberate attempt to hurt her. Irene could not do a thing, allowing him to do what he wanted! There was no telling how long itsted until she became numbed with pain, her bright eyes welling with crystalline tears. Finally releasing her, Isaac wiped a tear trickling out of the corner of her ¡°Did that hurt?¡± eyes. The Runaway Groom Chapter 104 The Runaway Groom Chapter 104 Chapter 104 ¡°I¡¯m hurting worse than you,¡± Isaac finished. In fact, his heart was broken! Tenderly brushing a finger against the corner of Irene¡¯s eye while he was ame with emotion, he told her, ¡°You¡¯re married to me and you¡¯re therefore mine. It¡¯s our destiny, and you should y the part of a wife too.¡± In the past, he never believed in destiny-but he found belief because of her, and he was convinced that fate tied them together. On the first night of their wedding, they had somehow consummated their marriage even though he was insistent on not meeting her at the mansion. What was that, if not destiny? On the other hand, Irene gulped. She would have been willing to follow her agreement with Henry to uphold her marriage with Isaac- regardless if he loved her or was nice to her. The only thing that stood between that was the fact that she had a son who was not Isaac¡¯s. There was no telling what would happen once Isaac found out, what with his breathtaking anger management issues! That was why divorce was the ideal choice for her-she was convinced that going on their separate lives was the best thing for everyone now. ¡°You know that I¡¯m unclean,¡± she rasped. ¡°Don¡¯t you find that humiliating?¡± Isaac held her gaze. ¡°No.¡± Irene gaped. This was not Isaac Jefferson-where had that haughty man from before gone? How could he not care? She still remembered the disgust in his eyes when he found out that she had done it with someone else. ¡°D-Did you lose your mind?¡± Why else would he say something as nonsensical as that? N?velDrama.Org content. ¡°I¡¯m perfectly lucid.¡± Isaac then growled threateningly, ¡°Stay away from Harvey Gooding from now on. I don¡¯t care. if you¡¯re really interested in him, but from this moment on, you¡¯re mine, and you won¡¯t think about any other man.¡± That was perhaps the humblest thing he had ever said. Still, Irene pursed her lips in silence. Even though Isaac was prostrating himself, she was not going to give up on getting a divorce. There was no way she would stay with Isaac and be his wife nominally. She had to take care of her child, because he needed a mother in the absence of a father. She would be there for him in life, and she would work hard to watch over him. And for that, she must divorce Isaac! Isaac frowned. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything? Do you want to leave me that badly?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I want a divorce.¡± Isaac¡¯s patience had its limits, and there was no way he would not be angered when she stepped out of line repeatedly! ¡°Because of Harvey Gooding?¡± His dark eyes shed with a coldness that stung the bones. ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene murmured softly while avoiding his gaze. Isaac wanted to strangle her right then, but stopped himself. ¡°I don¡¯t care who you love. You¡¯re now mine, and if you mess around with another man, I¡¯ll kill him!¡± Bang! Someone suddenly barged into the ward-Zachary had stormed inside without knocking, his eyes entirely red. However, he finally regained his senses when he found Irene in bed, with Isaac on top of her. Isaac bellowed furiously, ¡°Get out!¡± Zachary promptly closed the door, his mind clearing as he stood outside. He was being reckless because he was in too much of a hurry to find Irene, and entered without knocking the door. In the ward, Isaac got off Irene. Her clothes were a mess, baring her thin waist, so he straightened it and moved her to a morefortable position, pulling the nket over her feet. Knock, knock This time, Zachary knocked. ¡°Come in,¡± Isaac said. As he entered, they both could smell alcohol on him, and he was cutting a sorry figure. ¡°Were you drinking?¡± Isaac watched him as he sat on the couch. ¡°Then go home. What are you doing here?¡± ¡°I¡¯m looking for Irene,¡± Zachary said. ¡°¡®She¡¯s busy-¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 105 The Runaway Groom Chapter 105 Chapter 105 ¡°I have something to ask her, or I¡¯ll die.¡± Zachary cut Isaac short. Isaac stared at him for a while, and stayed silent. Considering that to be his silent approval, Zachary stood at the doorway without getting near Irene, staring at her as he asked, ¡°Tell me-did Lulu leave me because she fell for someone else?¡± Irene thought to herself that she had never asked Lulu that, and Lulu never mentioned it. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± she admitted. Zachary, however, believed that she was lying-how could she not know, when she had. constantly been in touch with Lulu? ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯ve never wronged you in any way. Why did you hide this from me?¡± Irene replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡± Zachary doubted that, and simply sat down, leaning against the doorway. Irene had never seen him so despondent-the sun seemed to shine whenever he went, and it hurt her to see him like this. N?velDrama.Org content. Zachary was a good man who had always been good to her, just as he had been kind and caring. to Lulu when they were in a rtionship. He rejected all the girls flocking to him, which gave Lulu some sense of security. In reality, she was curious as to why Lulu would suddenly just leave-she knew that Lulu could. not say it, but it would never be because of another man. ¡°H-How could she do this to me?!¡± Zachary cried then as he buried his head in his arms. Irene wanted to offer him words of assurance, but was not sure what to say to ease his pain maybe such words did not exist at all. Moreover, no one ever leads the same existence, and they would not truly understand how another person feels if they did not go through the same thing. ¡°Just let it out. It just might make you feel better.¡± Zachary shrugged and chuckled quietly and self-deprecatingly What was there to let out? He was somehow getting even more lucid despite the ton of alcohol he had. There was no easing this unbearable pain. Anything he did only seemed to make it hurt more. And he could not take it! ¡°How could she get married and even have a child?! How could she hurt me like this?!¡± Irene was perplexed. ¡°She had a child?¡± As far as she knew, Lulu did not¡­ but Irene soon remembered that her mother was with her, and it was likely that Lulu had used Tommy to deceive Zachary. A She went that far to make Zachary give up? While Irene never asked why Lulu had left before, she was suddenly interested now. What unspeakable horror could it be that Lulu waspelled to hurt a man so in love with her? ¡°Don¡¯t bother pretending. She told me everything,¡± Zachary growled, convinced that Irene was still trying to help Lulu hide the truth. Irene did not offer any exnations, so he sat there, not intent on leaving. Meanwhile, Isaac called Stan, who arrived in no time at all. ¡°Take him away.¡± Stan nced at Zachary on the floor. ¡°Okay.¡± As he helped Zachary to his feet, Stan remembered something else and said, ¡°Harvey Gooding¡¯s potential partner-the one we poached-is really keen on a partnership with us, and they¡¯ve sent a proposal. Would you like to read it?¡± ¡°Tomorrow,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°Okay.¡± With that, Stan began to take Zachary away, who was still mumbling to himself. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving¡­¡± ¡°I need to talk to Irene¡­¡± ¡°How could she be so cruel? How could she and Lulu lie to me¡­?¡± ¡°How could they do this to me?!¡± His voice echoed in the walkway as they headed to the distance, with Irene listening quietly and feeling sympathy for Zachary. He was genuinely in love with Lulu, or he would not be hurting so much. She certainly envied Lulu for having the earnest affection of a man. As she breathed a deep sigh, Isaac started toward her-she was rxed for a moment, and was on edge again. Staring warily at him, she stammered, ¡°S-Stay away from me.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 106 The Runaway Groom Chapter 106 Chapter 106 Naturally, there was no way Isaac would listen. Walking up to Irene¡¯s bed, he sat on it andy down beside her. Irene had to slide away to make enough room for him, or he would be on top of her again. ¡°This bed is too small for two,¡± she whispered. Isaac pulled her into his arms, nestling his nose against her neck. ¡°We¡¯re married. We would be sleeping together. Irene was speechless, but her whole body had stiffened and she was afraid to move! Isaac was so close that her skin seemed to burn and flush where there was contact. His hot breath was spraying over a sensitive spot just behind her ear, leaving her on edge. ¡°Could you let me go?¡± she asked drily. Isaac growled, ¡°No.¡± With that, he did nothing else, and his breathing was soon rhythmic. N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Irene was speechless. Did he fall asleep already? But there was no way she could! The bed was too small for her to get away from him, and so she sighed in resignation and started at the ceiling, nning various ways to calm herself. She felt better eventually and fell asleep after a while. That was when Isaac opened his eyes. There was rity in his gaze beneath those thick eyshes of his, and he certainly did not look sleepy -he was just pretending. While Irene was asleep and not offering any resistance, he caressed her cheek, his lips curling in a faint smile. She would only be this tame while she was asleep, and not shying away from his touch! He gathered her firmly in his arms. Isaac was nowhere to be seen when Irene woke up. She had no idea when he left, but was relieved that he was gone anyway. She was just about to get up when Mrs. Watson arrived with breakfast and a new phone, which she had asked Mrs. Watson to buy secretly. After all, it was very inconvenient to not have one these days. ¡°It¡¯s time for breakfast, Mrs. Jefferson¨Clet me help you up,¡± Mrs. Watson said. Irene said, ¡°I need the washroom.¡± After Mrs. Watson helped her inside, she sat down and whipped out her phone, but resisted the urge to call Lulu since it was still very early. She put a hand against the wall and tried to get out by hopping on one foot, but Mrs. Watson quickly came to help her. ¡°Please call for me next time, Mrs. Jefferson we can¡¯t have you getting hurt again.¡± ???????????????????????? ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡± Irene smiled, understanding that Mrs. Watson was genuinely concerned. Mrs. Watson brought mushroom soup with meat chunks, which was very nourishing. Irene also ate most of the scrambled eggs and pancakes. Her chest was swelling less now as herctation subsided. After she finished eating, Mrs. Watson left with her dirtyundry, leaving her alone. Taking out her phone, she finally called Lulu, and her call was answered quickly. ¡°Hello?¡± ¡°Lulu? It¡¯s me.¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°You met Zachary?¡± she asked. ¡°Yeah,¡± Lulu replied. ¡°He came to meet me in Sunny City. 11 Remembering Zachary¡¯s miserable state, Irene told her, ¡± Did you know that he was piss drunkst night? I¡¯ve never seen him so miserable, and it honestly hurts me to see him like that¡­¡± As Lulu became quiet, Irene remembered that no one should be meddling with a couple¡¯s rtionship, but she felt injustice for Zachary regardless. ¡°Do you really not love him anymore?¡± She decided that she would not say a thing if Lulu had a new lover, but if that was not the case, she was sure that they should be sitting down and having a proper talk instead. Leaving things unresolved would only leave them both hating! As Lulu stayed silent, Irene considered the circumstances and said, ¡°Can I take your silence as admission, Lulu? Look, I¡¯d never poke my nose in your affairs, but I¡¯d really like to know what this is actually about. Why do you have to hide it from Zachary? Why can¡¯t you tell him? || ¡°Irene¡­¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 107 The Runaway Groom Chapter 107 Chapter 107 Lulu had no idea where to start, just as she had trouble spilling her guts. Nheless, Irene was very patient and did not rush Lulu -she knew that Lulu needed time, and afforded her silence even as the clock on the wall ticked away. ¡°Irene¡­ I¡¯m sure you know that Zacharyes from riches, and there is a clear gap in our statuses. His mother actually approached me when she found out about our rtionship-¡± ¡°And she told you to break up with him?¡± Irene asked. ¡± Using money to coerce you, like they do on TV?¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. She was naturally aware that Zachary¡¯s family was a dynasty of its own. ¡°What are you talking about? Of course not!¡± Lulu had been downtrodden at first, but Irene¡¯s urging somehow made her relieved. ¡°Look,¡± she exined, ¡°all she said was that she hopes for Zachary¡¯s future wife to be someone who can actually help him. She favors the daughter of Centric United¡¯s CEO, and that woman is definitely an ideal support for Zachary with her family influence.¡± ¡°She told me in confidence that Zachary¡¯s father actually has a mistress, who also had a son. That boy clearly wants to be the family¡¯s heir, and Zachary never liked family conflict. That¡¯s why Zachary¡¯s mother is worried that the mistress and her son will take over everything, and she needs a daughter¨Cinw with influence to keep them at bay.¡± ¡°Naturally, that would never be me¨Cmy father is an average Joe and my mother recently passed away from stomach cancer. I myself am a measly forensic doctor, and I¡¯d never be able to help Zachary in any way if I stayed with him. I don¡¯t want things to get unpleasant between him and his mother, which is why I can¡¯t tell him anything. I¡¯m sure she loves him¨Cthat¡¯s why she worries so much about his future¡­ Do you understand me?¡± Irene had no idea, and was left confused as well¡ªshe would not know what to do if that happened to her either. Lulu had her own perspective and considerations, and it was not to say that she was being unreasonable. That being said, were those two decisions made for Zachary¡¯s sake in the name of love¡­ ideal for the man himself? Irene believed that Zachary¡¯s own decision would be ideal in this situation. However, she was not personally involved in the matter, and she certainly should not tell Zachary without Irene¡¯s permission¡­ ¡°Okay, I understand. I won¡¯t tell Zachary¨Cthis is something you have to resolve among yourselves.¡± ¡°There¡¯s nothing to resolve,¡± Lulu replied. ¡°It¡¯ll all be over once Zachary gives up on me.¡± ¡°What about you?¡± Irene asked, because she knew that Lulu was still in love with Zacahry. ¡°I¡¯ll give up on him too, and find someone better¡­ Get married, have children, and enjoy an ordinary life.¡± She and Zachary were ultimately from different worlds. Somehow, that made Irene remember the difference between herself and Isaac. She became even more determined to get a divorce right then because of that! ¡°Is Tommy doing fine?¡± she asked then. ¡°I¡¯ll send you a video after the call,¡± Lulu replied. Irene pursed her lips. ¡°I really don¡¯t know what to say¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± ¡°Oh, save this number¨Cit¡¯s mine. Just give me a shout if you need me.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± With that, they hung up, and Lulu quickly sent Irene a video of Tommy. It had only been days, but the infant was plumper already. Irene¡¯s gaze was filled with tenderness as she watched. She wanted to hold him in her arms, and the thought that she could not be there left her mncholic. Harvey arrived enthusiastically at Light Group¡¯s offices with his painting, only to spot Isaac having a meeting with Mr. Layton. Mr. Layton was the the partner whom Isaac had poached from Harvey, and after spending so much time and effort just to bring Mr. Layton to the negotiation table, Harvey suddenly became depressed despite having swindled Isaac for millions. After all, the partnership with Mr. Layton was potentially worth over a hundred million! Now, he realized that Isaac had more than enough reason to throw away all that money just for the partnership he had poached from Harvey! ¡°Mr. Gooding.¡± Stan approached him just then. ¡°Mr. Jefferson has asked me to get the painting from you.¡± Harvey snapped, ¡°Pay up first!¡± Stan took his annoyance in stride. ¡°Of course. Please allow me to verify the painting.¡± Harvey did so, and after ensuring that it was the right painting, Stan led him to the finance department¡­ where Harvey flipped out! ¡°What the hell is this?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 108 The Runaway Groom Chapter 108 Chapter 108 ¡°It¡¯s the amount Mr. Jefferson told us to prepare,¡± Stan said. Harvey was fuming. How did 70 million dors end up as 21 million dors?! Isaac was clearly reneging! He stormed off to look for Isaac to argue his case, and Isaac just happened to finish his discussion with Mr. Layton. Mr. Layton shed an awkward smile when he saw Harvey, and left without even a greeting. Still, he was clearly set on a partnership with Isaac than Harvey anyway. Harvey did not leave him with any harsh remarks, since no agreement was actually signed and calling it off beforehand was not reneging. They were all business people, and making things awkward for one another was unnecessary. And Harvey was a man who could see the bigger picture. After Mr. Layton was out of earshot, he finally spoke, Are you breaking the deal, Mr. Jefferson?¡± || Isaac simply turned and headed back to his office, so Harvey followed him, snapping relentlessly, ¡°You made the bid yourself! So why are you paying me only 21 million dors?!¡± Behind them, Stan was left gaping at the portrait he was holding, and then at Harvey¡­ Was that man reallyining that he got 21 million for this?! He also had no idea why Isaac would spend so much to buy that when it was hardly worth that much! Meanwhile, Isaac sat behind his desk, loosening his cor, and looked up at Harvey. ¡°Weren¡¯t you splitting the money with Irene Spencer? If I recall, 30 percent was what you said of course, I¡¯ll pay her myself. Do you take issue with the fact that I did not pay you the full amount? || Harvey was left speechless. ¡°No¡­¡± He tried to argue. He had been feeling proud that the art exhibition he had gone through great lengths to put together had somehow benefited Irene as well¡­ So how could he let Isaac be the nice guy here? Moreover, would not Irene think better of Isaac when he gives her the money, while Harvey himself somehow ended up as a father buying a dowry?! It was unpleasant just thinking about it! ¡°It¡¯s 30 percent Irene, 70 percent me,¡± he tried to argue he could not care less about anything else just then, because he deserved that 49 million! However, Isaac was not about to y along. ¡°I¡¯m paying, and I therefore call the shots. You could just forfeit my payment if you think it¡¯s not good enough for you.¡± Harvey was once again speechless. What on earth was that reasoning?! Isaac was killing him! Still, he took a moment topose himself¨Che realized then that never got the drop on Isaac before, given the man¡¯s cunning nature. From that perspective, 21 million was better than nothing. ¡°My project is suspended and I¡¯m losing more money by the day because you ratted me out. My hundred million dor partnership with Mr. Layton fell through because you poached him. Sure, I admit that you¡¯re better and that¡¯s inevitably the key to winning in business, but don¡¯t get so smug, Isaac. I know what others don¡¯t¨CIrene Spencer is your secret wife, isn¡¯t she?¡± Isaac stayed impassive as if he never heard Harvey, and calmly opened a file folder to read. However, there was a storm brewing inside him. Irene told Harvey about them? His heart sank! Naturally, Harvey kept pushing him when he saw that N?velDrama.Org content. Isaac appeared unaffected. ¡°I also know that she made you a cuck.¡± ¡°You can leave when you¡¯re done,¡± Isaac said as he signed the document, and pushed the folder aside. Harvey was left fuming, feeling as if he had hit a wall and did nothing to Isaac! ¡°Are you really that magnanimous? You bought that painting to destroy and ease your frustration, did you not? || Isaac would have been incensed if he had not known the truth that he was the one who had made Irene pregnant. Why should he be jealous of himself? As such, he gave Harvey a mysterious look. Harvey was left confused. What is the man up to? Nheless, Isaac soon growled, ¡°Stan, please escort him out.¡± He did not want to waste his time with Harvey. While Harvey was left speechless again, Stan gestured at the door, ¡°Please, Mr. Gooding.¡± As such, Harvey could do nothing but leave in frustration ¨Che could not stay when Isaac had basically told him to leave. But just as he arrived at the door, his phone rang. Once he picked it up, his staff cried out, ¡°Sir! Someone took your painting!¡± ¡°When?¡± ¡°Just now!¡± Harvey¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Who was it?¡± ¡°¡­I think it¡¯s Mr. Jefferson¡¯s people!¡± Harvey flew into a rage right then and turned around, storming toward Isaac¡¯s desk, mming his fist on it so hard that it hurt his knuckles. Still, he was snarling ferociously, ¡°That was out of line, Isaac Jefferson!¡± Stan approached them just then, and reported to Isaac, ¡± We have the other painting, sir.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 109 The Runaway Groom Chapter 109 Chapter 109 Isaac finally looked straight at Harvey then. So he was upset about the painting¡­ But Isaac did not mind that at all! ¡°Burn it,¡± he told Stan nonchntly. Irene painted him? Fine. He just had to burn it into ashes! Harvey was at a loss for words from sheer frustration. Isaac had gone too far! At the same time, Stan promptly called someone to get the job done, before telling Harvey, ¡°Please leave, Mr. Gooding!¡± Harvey¡¯s chest was heaving with a fiery rage, but he had nowhere to rant! To add insult to injury¨Cit might even have been Stan¡¯s n- the instant he stepped out of the building, he found the painting being burnt! Rage could hardly describe how he felt just then. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. ¡°Stan, is your boss actually in love with Irene Spencer?¡± He had no idea why Isaac was calm despite everything he said, but there was one usible exnation: Isaac was in love with Irene. But if he was, why would he throw her off a building? Naturally, Stan knew that for a fact, but there was no way he would tell an outsider like Harvey about Isaac¡¯s personal affairs. ¡°It¡¯s Mr. Jefferson¡¯s business,¡± he smiled. ¡°Would ackey like me be privy to that?¡± Harvey snorted coolly. ¡°You¡¯re a real viin. Guess the dog takes after its owner!¡± Stan simply smiled without offering a retort, while Harvey stared at the painting of himself reduced to ash. What was this supposed to be? One only burns a person¡¯s picture if they are dead! Were they trying to jinx him? He headed for his car, but suddenly made a turn on his way back, heading to the hospital to visit Irene instead. She was asleep, and Mrs. Watson just happened to have left. Harvey was in a bad mood, however, and barked, ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Jolted awake, she rubbed her eyes and saw that it was Harvey. ¡°Were you lying to me?¡± he asked sharply. Still groggy from sleep, Irene was naturally confused. ¡± About what?¡± ¡°The reason you were running away from Isaac Jefferson! You never cheated on him, did you?!¡± Irene stared at him in surprise. ¡°You talked to him?¡± ¡°What do you think?¡± Harvey snorted grumpily. ¡°I wasn¡¯t lying,¡± Irene exined. ¡°Why would he push me off a building if he didn¡¯t hate me? You saw how I ended up with this leg, or do you actually need me to exin?¡± Harvey certainly had no retort against that, since he had seen Isaac push Irene off the second floor with his own eyes. Isaac would not have done that if he did not hate her! ¡°Then why didn¡¯t he get upset when I told him that you made him a cuck?¡± ¡°Do you even know the man? He knows how to disguise his mood. Why would he let anything on? Moreover, he¡¯s just making himself aughing stock if he gets upset right in front of you¨Cand you know he¡¯s not that stupid. Even if he gets upset, he¡¯ll keep in or just vent it on me.¡± Harvey thought so too¡­ Then Isaac must just be feigningposure! He also realized something else. ¡°Oh¡­ I¡¯ve been a bother, haven¡¯t I?¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Irene replied tly. ¡°I¡¯d rather he get upset with me and divorce me.¡± Harvey licked his lips- after being foiled by Isaac, he suddenly had a nasty idea. ¡°Like I said before, we can put up an act to upset him. You¡¯ll get what you want! It¡¯s a good n, so just agree to it.¡± Irene became silent as she pondered. She certainly needed that divorce soon, since she missed her son already. ¡°Fine¡­¡± Before she finished, the door to the ward suddenly opened! The Runaway Groom Chapter 110 The Runaway Groom Chapter 110 Chapter 110 Irene was stunned. Surely it was not Isaac? More importantly, did he overhear what Harvey just said? Still, she rxed as she looked toward the door and saw that it was Mrs. Watson. Naturally, Harvey saw the way she reacted. Was she that afraid of Isaac? Still, her fear made sense¨CHarvey himself could not beat Isaac at all, and it was only imaginable how much abuse Irene suffered in his hands! While Harvey quietly mused to himself, Mrs. Watson looked at him warily and put the food she brought on the table. ¡°You should be resting, Mrs. Jefferson.¡± Irene could see that Mrs. Watson did not like Harvey, and smiled. ¡°I know.¡± Even after all that had happened, she cared for Mrs. Watson because she had really been nice to her. ¡°I¡¯m having lunch now, Harvey, and I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t have anything to spare. You should go.¡± Harvey pursed his lips¨Cwhy did it feel like he was being shown the door the entire day? Be it maids or Stan, every single employee Isaac had were disgustingly protective of their master! ¡°See you around,¡± Harvey simply said then. ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Who is he?¡± Mrs. Watson asked after he left. ¡°An acquaintance.¡± Irene simply replied. Being as kind as always, Mrs. Watson did not want Irene to fight with Isaac again, ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, please don¡¯t upset your husband again. He¡¯ll be angry if he finds out that I bought you a phone behind his back¨Csurely you understand enough to tell that he has been very nice to you.¡± Irene lowered her gaze. While she did feel Isaac changing recently, there was so much that stood between them, so she would never even allow herself to imagine. Somehow, she found herselfcking appetite just then. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯m hungry, Mrs. Watson.¡± ¡°Why? Did I upset you with my words, Mrs. Jefferson? If that¡¯s the case, I apologize¡­¡± Mrs. Watson would naturally rather not meddle, but she was convinced that Isaac hadpromised as much as possible in his marriage, and it was Irene instead who was having an attitude. After all, should spouses not be understanding toward each other? How was Irene ever going to make things better between them if she kept up with that attitude? ¡°No, that¡¯s a misunderstanding.¡± Irene smiled¨Cit certainly was not Mrs. Watson¡¯s fault, but she felt a little depressed when she remembered how things were between her and Isaac. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll eat or you would worry over nothing,¡± Mrs. Watson said feebly then. ¡°You should eat more since you¡¯re injured.¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°I¡¯ve boiled that soup overnight, so it¡¯s plenty nutritious.¡± Irene certainly epted Mrs. Watson¡¯s kindness, and joked, ¡°It¡¯s all nutritious, though?¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. The good¨Cnatured conversation improved Irene¡¯s mood, and she was actually smiling. Isaac entered just then, and saw that¨Cthe brightness of her visage was as bright as the stars! And yet, she had never been this carefree in front of him. All he ever had from her was pretension! Naturally, Irene¡¯s cheeriness vaporized the instant she saw Isaac, and her smile faded visibly. Isaac usually arrived in the evening, but it was just noon at the moment. ¡°Have you had lunch yet, Mr. Jefferson ?¡± Mrs. Watson asked. ¡°No,¡± he replied. ¡°I¡¯ve made a lot, so you can share some with your wife.¡± With that, she left the room and attentively closed the door behind her. Isaac sat beside Irene¡¯s bed and stared at her. ¡°Does it really hurt you so much to see me?¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. Irene simply kept both hands on her bowl and continued sipping the soup quietly¨Cas if it was a silent admission. Isaac took a deep breath to calm himself¡ªit felt like he had to use up all his patience whenever he was around her. ¡°Here.¡± He gave her a ck card. The Runaway Groom Chapter 111 The Runaway Groom Chapter 111 Chapter 111 Isaac did not move. Irene blinked. ¡°You want to eat mine?¡± Before he could say a word, she continued, ¡°I drank from the soup. My spit is in it.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t mind,¡± Isaac replied. Irene was left speechless, her jaw almost dropping right then! Was this really the Isaac she knew? When did he be so carefree? Nheless, she clutched at the bowl, as if worried he would take it¨Cbut that was not the case, since she was just embarrassed to give it to him. They were not intimate enough to drink from the same bowl! ¡°Are you blushing?¡± Isaac chuckled. Getting embarrassed so easily? She was just so innocent. Irene touched her own cheek, but retorted, ¡°I¡¯m not. Don¡¯t lie.¡± Isaac did not want to argue, and simply said tenderly, ¡°Of course. If you say so.¡± Irene felt herself tensing up and evaded his gaze right then. She herself had no idea what she was being embarrassed about, but Isaac¡¯s words were just ambiguous! Isaac stopped teasing her just then, and he had a simple lunch because he was actually hungry and wanted to eat with her. Even so, she was still distant. ¡°The doctor just said that you can go home to rest now,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll have someone handle the paperworkter.¡± ¡°Could I stay here instead?¡± Irene asked gingerly After all, she would have to spend even more time with Isaac at home than here, and she did not want that. What if she developed feelings for him? Zachary and Lulu were a perfect example, and she was not keen on going through the same pain. Isaac seemed to see through her, however, and said, ¡°No.¡± They were married and should therefore live together. He was not about to let her stay at the hospital! Irene felt deted, when he suddenly asked, ¡°Is there anything you can¡¯t do?¡± While Irene was confused at first, he continued, ¡°You¡¯ve learned enough skills to be a celebrity. Being a doctor is almost a waste.¡± She had certainly surprised him when he found out that she was an artist, and a decent one at that! Irene understood what he was getting at then, but she also remembered how Lionel had forced her to marry Isaac, and pursed her lips. She wanted so badly to tell him that she had been coerced into it, just to earn his favor. ¡°Do you like that about me?¡± she asked. ¡°I do,¡± he replied with no hesitation. Irene thought then that it took a man to know another man-Lionel certainly knew Isaac. But did she learn so much just to make Isaac fall for her? And to use her as a tool to im favors from the Jeffersons? Coldness gripped her heart. Her own father really did not hold back from using her like a tool! ¡°Is there anything else I should know?¡± Isaac asked then, tucking a lock of her hair behind her ear. She turned away, but it could have been because she was ticklish or perhaps just embarrassed. Isaac withdrew his hand, and said, ¡°Draw me too.¡± Irene was left speechless, and he raised a brow. ¡°What, do you not want to?¡± Knowing what he was capable of, Irene decided that one broken foot was enough. ¡°Fine,¡± she quickly said. Knock, knock- Someone suddenly knocked on the door. Isaac rose and answered it, and it turned out to be a courier from City Express. ¡°Excuse me, is Ms. Spencer here?¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org. The Runaway Groom Chapter 112 The Runaway Groom Chapter 112 Chapter 112 Isaac studied the courier and saw therge bouquet of roses he was holding. Who were those meant for? Irene Spencer? At the same time, Irene was craning her head from her bed in curiosity. ¡°Who is it?¡± The courier could feel the chilling presence Isaac was projecting, and gingerly replied, ¡°Are you Ms. Spencer? I¡¯m from City Express, and I will need your signature for your parcel.¡± ¡°Who¡¯s the parcel from?¡± Irene asked. ¡°A Mr. Gooding, ma¡¯am,¡± he replied. Irene promptly turned toward Isaac, and noticed his jaw clenching-she was just looking from a particr angle, but could still sense the displeasure he felt. She could tell that Isaac guessed that it was Harvey, who deliberately sent it even though it would incur Isaac¡¯s wrath. Meanwhile, the courier quickly sidestepped Isaac and squeezed his way in, passing her the receipt to be signed before handing her the bouquet of ny-nine roses. ¡°Thank you.¡± Irene smiled in return as he quickly left the room, feeling as if this was the worst delivery he had to make yet. Walking up to her, Isaac asked, ¡°Do you like it?¡± ¡°All women would,¡± Irene replied as she picked up the card from the bouquet and read it.N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Isaac snorted and snatched it out of her hands and read it before she could. [I only wish that I can be in your heart, and my heart is too small for anyone but Irene! Divorce Isaac already-I will marry you instead. I miss you] you. Oh, [To Irene from Harvey, all my love.] His wording was as obvious as it was flirty, and Isaac¡¯s face darkened while his turn red after he was done. eyes seemed to Restraining his temper, he asked Irene, ¡°You want a divorce so that you can marry Harvey Gooding?¡± Irene never had time to read what was on the card, but she could tell that it was nothing good if he was that upset. Still, she knew upsetting Isaac was inevitable when she agreed to y along with Harvey¡¯s ns, and that was her n anyway. ¡°Yes,¡± she replied. Isaac tore the card into pieces then, his murderous intent overflowing, though he soon softened at the sight of Irene¡¯s stered foot. ¡°Don¡¯t even dream of a divorce. Like I said¡ªI¡¯ll destroy any man you have!¡± With that, he kicked the door open with a loud bang! The crash was so violent it almost broke the door right then. He was really furious! Irene flinched in surprise, her heart skipping a beat when she saw Isaac¡¯s furious visage, somehow feeling sympathy for him just then. Was she actually out of line¡­? Bzzt- That was when the phone she kept under her pillow vibrated. Composing herself, she picked up to see that Sheryl had sent a video of Tommy. He was awake and looking everywhere without focusing on anything. Irene remembered how red his skin was after he was born, but he had since be fair- skinned and even had a faint pink blush. He was just so small and adorable. She sped a hand over her lips, her eyes turning watery just then. She was separated from him almost soon after she gave birth, before she could spend any time with him. She missed him so much-she wanted to cradle him and kiss him. All her remorse about upsetting Isaac hence vaporized. There was no way she could relent now! Her child needed her, and she must return to her side as soon as possible! If she wanted to be free of that man, she must make him agree to a divorce. That was the only way she could be with her own child. That was when the door suddenly swung open, and Irene quickly hid the phone beneath her sheets and looked toward the doorway. Stan was there with several other men-he was courteous toward Irene these days after learning that Isaac cared about her. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, the doctors are saying that you can be discharged. He¡¯s also asked me to send you to the mansion.¡± Isaac¡¯s wording for those orders was hardly that polite. ¡°I know,¡± Irene replied. The Runaway Groom Chapter 113 The Runaway Groom Chapter 113 Chapter 113 As Irene hung her head, Stan said, ¡°Please pack her belongings, Mrs. Watson.¡± Despite what Stan said, Mrs. Watson just had to pick up Irene¡¯sundry and nothing else. After she was done, Stan brought a wheelchair, and Mrs. Watson helped Irene to get on it. With the men he brought, it looked as if Stan was afraid she would run away, and the overkill was enough for Mrs. Watson to tell that something was wrong. ¡°Did you upset your husband again, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± Irene said nothing. ¡°Why?¡± Mrs. Watson simply could not understand, and disliked that about her. Irene could get along with Isaac and have a blissful married life with him. How many women would die for that?! ¡°Because-¡± Before Irene could finish, however, they watched as Stan stomped on the rose bouquet Harvey sent, leaving an utter mess before telling Irene, ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡¯s orders.¡± Irene remained impassive-she did not really like those roses anyway. ¡°Do whatever you want,¡± she said tly. ¡°Was that from the man who visited you earlier?¡± Mrs. Watson asked. ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene replied. Mrs. Watson felt utter disappointment right then. ¡°Why would you ept it if you know it upsets Mr. Jefferson?¡± ¡°I want a divorce,¡± Irene said tly, leaving both Stan and Mrs. Watson speechless. Feeling that Irene really did not know what was good for her, Stan snorted. ¡°You¡¯re tactless.¡± Irene chuckled but did not bother exining. As Stan wheeled Irene out of the hospital, they saw Samantha White and Lionel Spencer enter. Lionel looked terrible and it was obvious that he was here for a consultation, but when he saw Irene, he quickly went up to her and asked worriedly, ¡°Irene? Where have you been thest few months? Where¡¯s your mother?¡± Irene nced at Samantha who stood beside him. ¡°You have your lover over there. Why bother my mother?¡± Llonel glowered and huffed, ¡°I know you two were hiding from me, but I¡¯m telling you¡ªI won¡¯t divorce her! She can hide all she wants, I will-cough!¡± He hacked violently before she could finish, and Irene saw that his lips were pale. As a doctor, she could immediately tell that he was sick, so she said softly, ¡°You¡¯re here to get checked, aren¡¯t you? Go in already.¡± Lionel was still clutching his chest and coughing violently for a while before he could speak. Wheezing, he asked, ¡°What happened to your leg?¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. ¡°I fell,¡± she replied tly. ¡°Is it serious?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s enough! You¡¯ve been sick for so long, Lionel-quit wasting time and get better already,¡± Samantha said, tugging at Lionel¡¯s sleeve. ¡°I¡¯m the only one who cares for you, and you¡¯d rather care about someone else¡­¡± Lionel shot her a re. ¡°Shut up!¡± Samantha was naturally upset by that reaction. ¡°How am I wrong? They were hiding for months because they didn¡¯t care about you at all, but you had to get clingy instead. Can¡¯t you see how indifferent she is? She¡¯s now Mrs. Jefferson, she¡¯d never bother herself with you ¡°Let¡¯s go, Stan,¡± Irene snapped then, not having the mood to y along with Samantha¡¯s antics. Lionel wanted to say more, but Irene had already gotten into her car, and he was left sighing. Still, he never looked away even after Irene¡¯s car sped into the distance, while Samantha kept tugging at him. ¡°She¡¯s gone already, so you don¡¯t have to look.¡± After that, Lionel underwent a series of tests. Once the reports were filed, Samantha brought them to the doctor, who had a somber look on his face after reading them. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me, doctor?¡± Lionel asked as he sat opposite the doctor. The Runaway Groom Chapter 114 The Runaway Groom Chapter 114 Chapter 114 The doctor did not answer immediately, and instead asked, ¡°Is your family with you?¡± Samantha, who had been standing at a corner, promptly replied, ¡°I¡¯m his wife.¡± Like any other human being, Samantha yearned dearly for the one thing shecked. While she was just a mistress, she certainly would never miss a chance to introduce herself as Mrs. Spencer out in the open! ¡°Is my husband alright, doctor?¡± she asked then. ¡°No, there¡¯s no need for worry,¡± the doctor replied ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll be writing a receipt for you, Mr. Spencer. There¡¯s another test you should take ¡± After writing on a piece of paper and passing it to Lionel Spencer, the doctor said, ¡°You can go now. Your wife can stay.¡± Lionel, however, could tell that the doctor was trying to send him out of the room. ¡°Just be honest with me, doctor,¡± he said. ¡°There¡¯s no need to lude anything from me I¡¯m prepared for the worst.¡± The doctor stayed awkwardly silent for a moment, and said, ¡°Very well. ¡°He read through the reports again, and finally told Lionel, ¡°You have a malignant brain tumor. Despite having prepared himself mentally, Lionel almost fell off his chair from sheer shock, his knuckles balling into fists on hisp just then. Samantha naturally lostposure as well, since Lionel was basically her sugar daddy. ¡°It¡¯s just a cough, doctor! How could it be a brain tumor? Could there have been a mistake?¡± ¡°It¡¯s probably metastasizing,¡± the doctor replied. ¡°The dry cough is a symptom that it¡¯s moved to the throat and lungs.¡± ¡°There must be a mistake!¡± Samantha snapped. Lionel did not have it in him to flip out just then. ¡°Please, leave us.¡¯ Samantha, however, seemed to not hear him. ¡°Let¡¯s go to another hospital. This ce is full of quack doctors! You¡¯re just fine, there must be a mistake¡± ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Lionel barked, his ire getting to him. He was already in a bad mood, but she just had to keep yapping! Samantha reluctantly turned quiet. Feeling chagrined, Lionel said, ¡°Sorry about that, doctor.¡± The doctor waved him off-he certainly understood, and there were other patients whose family members reacted worse. ¡°How¡­ How long do I have left?¡± Lionel asked even as he worked hard to keep himself together. In the end, everyone is inevitably afraid to die, and few have ever faced death with grace and fearlessness. ¡°We will require further tests,¡± the doctor replied. ¡°You should get admitted now if possible.¡± ¡°I will think about it¡­¡± Lionel mumbled. ¡°Of course,¡± the doctor said, and handed him his reports. ¡°Of course, you can have further tests at another hospital if you want.¡± Lionel appeared deted and took the folder quietly, got up, and left. Samantha followed him, saying, ¡°We should consult another hospital¡­ They might have messed up here.¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. It only served to annoy Lionel, who just wanted peace and quiet, only for her to keep prattling on! ¡°Just shut up if you don¡¯t want me to die!¡± he growled. ¡°But I¡¯m doing this for your own good,¡± Samanthained softly. Lionel was not bothered with her just then-he did not even have the strength to speak after finding out about his sickness. Meanwhile, Irene had returned to the mansion. However, the men Stan brought with him were still around, standing guard outside the mansion to stop her from escaping. It was basically a house arrest thatsted over a month. In that time, Isaac never showed up, and she never had contact with the outside world. Cut off from all outside contact, she had to idle her days away. On the other hand, Harvey was not that lucky. Isaac was furious, but since he could not vent it at Irene, Harvey had to take the brunt of it. Heunched a campaign to sabotage all projects Gooding Enterprises had, and did not care if it hurt his checkbook! Harvey was left on the verge of bankruptcy, and news of hispany¡¯s unstoppable decline kept making headlines! With all their projects basically killed off, Harvey finally caved to the pressure and sought out Isaac, exining that there was nothing between him and Irene-they were just putting up an act to upset him. His words were: ¡°I just wanted to annoy you, and Irene wants to divorce you. It was just amon goal, and we agreed to pretend as if we are in a rtionship! There is actually nothing between us at all!¡± Irene finally found out when Isaac showed up at the mansion again. The Runaway Groom Chapter 115 The Runaway Groom Chapter 115 Chapter 115 However, Irene did not feel anything toward Harvey¡¯s predicament-the man hade up with that n himself. He should have been prepared to fight Isaac when he did. He was not, however, and he could only me his own stupidity for his losses. ¡°That¡¯s your darling, right there. Don¡¯t you have anything to say?¡± Isaac asked as he stared at Irene¡¯s face, looking for a reaction-he naturally did not take Harvey¡¯s exnation at face value. Irene waspletely nonchnt, and he knew right then that Harvey was mostly telling the truth. After all, if she was really in love, there was no way she would not get worried about Harvey. Her nonchnce just meant that she did not care! But even if that had been an act, it was reality that she wanted to divorce him! Was she really that obsessed with leaving him? ¡°Why are you so insistent on a divorce, Irene Spencer?¡± he asked directly with a dark look. Irene rolled her eyes. ¡°You know that I¡¯m with Harvey-¡± .¡±He already told me that it¡¯s an act.¡± Irene was speechless-Harvey was simply unreliable! Nheless, she braced herself and snapped, ¡°It was never my intention to marry you. I don¡¯t love you at all, and I certainly don¡¯t want to spend my life with a man I don¡¯t love. That¡¯s why I want a divorce-it¡¯s that simple.¡± She had steeled herself to anger Isaac, to make him divorce her! Isaac stayed silent for a long while. ¡°I¡­¡± He wanted to tell Irene that he was the man she was with that night. At the very least, they shared a bond that way. Maybe she would stop demanding a divorce too? He decided to test the waters. ¡°If the man you were with that night was also the one who caused your miscarriage, would you hate him?¡± He would tell her if she said no. However, Irene did not hesitate in her response, and everything from her expression to her tone made her rage apparent. ¡°Of course I would. I would even wish he was dead!¡± Naturally, she did not forget that she had lost a twin because of Isaac and Whitney! ¡°That¡¯s why I hate you now. You¡¯re the reason I lost my children.¡± ¡°So be it,¡± Isaac quietly said. Irene actually did a double take. What was that misery in his tone? ¡°What¡¯s your deal?¡± she asked softly. ¡°It¡¯s my fault,¡± Isaac said and went to stand beside the curtain wall. He was hurting for the loss of their children too. Irene somehow felt sympathy and the impulse to give him a hug-he looked so lonely and miserable from behind. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. She shook her head. How could she feel that way toward him?! Even if Isaac was not the mastermind, he definitely yed a huge role in the loss of her twin, and that would always keep them apart. ¡°Mrs. Watson?¡± she called out then. ¡°Help me upstairs.¡± Mrs. Watson arrived, and was just about to do it when Isaac turned around and said, ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡± Mrs. Watson promptly left, but Irene resisted. ¡°Mrs. Watson can do it.¡± Isaac said nothing and quietly picked her up, and she bit her lip, her hands dangling aimlessly. ¡°Why are you doing this? You know I hate you.¡± Isaac carried her into her bedroom and put her in bed, but never pulled away. Instead, he stayed just inches away from her, his back arched as he looked into her eyes solemnly. ¡± Because I love you.¡± Irene¡¯s eyes widened, her pupils dting. She had to tug on the sheets and avert her eyes, as if afraid to look him in the eye. ¡°But I don¡¯t. ¡°I know,¡± Isaac replied. Irene was actually so surprised by his reaction that she suddenly looked up, her forehead knocking into his chin because she moved too quickly. ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to¡­¡± She reached out to touch his chin, and saw that there was no harm done. ¡°You¡¯re fine¡­¡± That was when she found herself looking into his eyes again, and realized at the same time that she was caressing his chin. Panicking, she tried to pull away, but Isaac caught her wrist! The Runaway Groom Chapter 116 The Runaway Groom Chapter 116 Chapter 116 ¡°L-Let go¡­¡± Irene whispered even as she struggled. Isaac did not, however, and held her soft hand in his palm as he leaned in to kiss her lips. Irene would have usually resisted, but she was weirdly silent and did not push him away this time. In fact, she closed her eyes, quietly feeling the breath of another person and her heart racing as a result! His kiss was passionate, endless and enrapturing. One could not help being captivated by it¡¯ Since it was the first time she was being so docile, Isaac wanted more than kisses, and began to reach deeper to conquer her. His fingertips brushed past her corbone, loosening her cor and sliding off her straps. Irene finally regained her senses from his dizzying kiss when she felt the sudden coldness. over her chest, and realizing what he was doing, evaded him in panic ¡°Stop!¡± Isaac¡¯s gaze appeared clouded ¡°You enjoyed that too, didn¡¯t you?¡± ¡°No, I didn¡¯t.¡± Irene denied it. ¡°Really?¡± Isaac brushed a finger over her lips that was moist, perhaps because of him. ¡°Get out,¡± Irene snapped, unable to look anywhere and seemingly embarrassed by her own actions. How could she kiss him so willingly?! She hated herself for that! She bit her lip, and med him for everything right then. ¡°Don¡¯te near me or try to bewitch me ever again.¡± She felt as if she was not herself because of his advances. Isaac simply smiled at him, and Irene inadvertently nced at him, almost falling for the most gentle and adoring smile in the world just then. She quickly averted her eyes, thinking to herself that the man was constantly using his beauty on her! That was when someone knocked on the door, and Mrs. Watson soon called out, ¡°Sir, there¡¯s someone downstairs, asking for Mrs. Jefferson.¡± ¡°Who is it?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°He is saying that he is her younger brother¡­¡± Irene frowned. ¡°Ricky Spencer?¡± She remembered that Ricky was involved in that hit-and-run and was subsequently convicted. Still, Lionel was calling in favors from everywhere, and since the ident was not at all serious, he was freed after just two months. ¡°Do you want to see him?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°I¡¯ll send him away if you don¡¯t.¡± ¡°No.¡± Irene replied-she never spoke much and held no sentiment for her stepbrother. Moreover, her spite toward Samantha extended to the boy as well, giving her even less of a reason to meet him. ¡°Send him away.¡± Isaac spoke at the general direction of the door then. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± Mrs. Watson replied, and they heard her heading downstairs. N?velDrama.Org holds this content. That was when Irene suddenly remembered that Lionel¡¯s face had been yellowish and he had been losing weight drastically. She did not know what had happened, but it was obvious that he was very sick! Although she hated him for using her like a tool and cheating on her mother, she was still worried at the thought that he was sick Blood certainly runs thicker than water. Isaac could see the worry on her face. ¡°I¡¯ll have someone bring him in if you want to see him. Irene shook her head, because Ricky was not her concern. ¡°No.¡± That was when Mrs. Watson returned and spoke from outside the door again, ¡°Sir, he refused to leave and rushed inside although the men threw him out. He insists that he will stay until he gets to meet Mrs. Jefferson.¡± Isaac opened the door then. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll handle this.¡± Irene suddenly called out to him. ¡°I think I¡¯ll meet him this time.¡± She wanted to find out what Ricky wanted anyway. As she tried to stand, Isaac walked over to her and held her up by the waist. She felt ufortable with his touch, but put a hand on his shoulder anyway. Once they arrived downstairs, Ricky was soon brought to them. ¡°Sis.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 117 The Runaway Groom Chapter 117 Chapter 117 Ricky addressed Irene as ¡®Sis¡¯ the instant he stepped through the front door, but Irene remained impassive, and was certainly unaffected by that title. ¡°Why did you want to see me?¡± ¡°You¡¯re a doctor, aren¡¯t you? You must know people,¡± Ricky said tearfully. ¡°You have to ask them to help Dad. His condition is very serious, and he won¡¯t survive for long if he doesn¡¯t get surgery.¡± The usually haughty boy appeared despondent, just as Irene stiffened. She had a hunch, but it still struck her like a truck to find out that it was reality. ¡°What did his doctor say? What¡¯s his condition?¡± she asked quietly. ¡°Malignant brain cancer. It¡¯s metastasized to his lungs,¡± Ricky replied. Irene was stunned. ¡°W-What?¡± ¡°You have to get him the best doctors, Sis. There might still be hope,¡± Ricky cried anxiously. Irene, however, knew that the cancer had advanced to a veryte stage if it had actually begun to metastasize, and not even surgery could help much. As she became silent, Ricky demanded, ¡°What, are you going to do nothing?¡¯ Irene simply needed time to calm down. ¡°Go home for now.¡± However, Ricky thought that her reaction meant she was still holding a grudge against Lionel, and therefore indifferent. ¡°He may have been a little overbearing about your marriage, but he¡¯s your father. He¡¯s sick and almost dying now-are you so cold that you won¡¯t help?¡± ¡°Won¡¯t help?¡± Irene coolly said. ¡°What do you take me for, some sort of god? His cancer is in itste stage-no one can help him!¡± ¡± Ricky promptly lost it and screamed, ¡°You heartless bitch! You¡¯ll get your just deserts! Irene, however, was unmoved. ¡°That would be my own issue. Why are you getting upset?¡± ¡°I¡¯m upset because you¡¯re an ingrate! You won¡¯t be here if not for Dad Nearby, Isaac frowned. Did the boy forget that he was here, yelling at Irene right in front of him? With a quick gesture, his men dragged Ricky out of the mansion, and Irene did not stop them, watching as Ricky continued to scream murder at her even as he was taken away. However, once he was out of sight, she grimaced in misery. No matter how much spite she felt toward Lionel, her heart still ached to hear that he was terminally ill After calming down, she picked up a phone to call a specialist she was acquainted with, but eventually hung up because the other person did not answer. ¡°Would you like my help?¡± Isaac asked just then. Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± She would look for help on her own, and certainly did not want to bother him. ¡°You don¡¯t have to hold back,¡± Isaac said. ¡°If you need help, you just need to ask.¡± Irene looked at him then, emotional stirring within her gaze. Any woman would fall for him when he was being so kind. Naturally, she was flesh and blood as well, and therefore had feelings. Lowering her gaze, she said, ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me,¡± Isaac replied. Somehow, things were suddenly polite-even harmonious between them. Irene certainly was not on edge around him just then! Next morning, Irene left the mansion with the help of Mrs. Watson and Jimmy the chauffeur. She first went to the mall, since she should at least get a gift when she was asking for a favor. N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Fortunately, she had a lot of money after selling her painting, so she nned to buy something valuable as a way of sincerity. She heard that the specialist she knew was a tea connoisseur, so she looked for an exquisite set of china. It looked quite expensive, but she took it anyway, and handed over a card to the cashier. ¡°I would like that gift-wrapped. Here, for the payment.¡± The card was the one Isaac had given her, and the cashier respectfully took it with both hands when she saw it. While Irene waited, she casually asked, ¡°How much do I have left?¡± ¡°Actually, there¡¯s no limit, ma¡¯am. You can use it as much as you want,¡± the cashier replied. Irene was dumbfounded. Perhaps she had misheard? ¡°What was that? There¡¯s no limit?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 118 The Runaway Groom Chapter 118 Chapter 118 ¡°Yes, there isn¡¯t a limit,¡± the cashier repeated, and exined, ¡°The spending limit of Centurion Cards is upward of a billion.¡± As a matter of fact, only the super-rich could afford the set of china Irene had picked. Being an employee there, the cashier had naturally met many such individuals, and more or less understood the way things worked among the upper-ss. On the other hand, Irene was dumbstruck, but she soon remembered Isaac¡¯s words. ¡°You can buy anything you want.¡± She finally understood that now¡­ but how could she bear to ept so much money from him? Meanwhile, the cashier had already gift-wrapped the tea set, and Mrs. Watson walked up to carry it for Irene. ¡°Your card, ma¡¯am.¡± The cashier then returned the card, holding it with both hands once more. As Irene took it, she suddenly found it so heavy she would drop it¨Cbut it was just a card. .She thought Isaac was joking when he told her that she loved her, and did not take it seriously. But why would he give this card to her if he was not serious? She smiled bitterly-money could really buy a woman¡¯s heart, could it not? And she was no exception! In reality, it was not the money, but Isaac¡¯s sincerity-like the tramp who would happily give out all six coins he had in his pocket to a downtrodden child. ¡°Where should we go next, Mrs. Jefferson? Are we getting something else?¡± Mrs. Watson asked softly when she noticed that Irene was spacing out. Coming to her senses, Irene said, ¡°No. We¡¯re leaving.¡± ¡°Are you realizing that your husband is treating you well?¡± Mrs. Watson smiled then. Irene stayed silent, even though she could feel that in her heart. She would never admit it, however, because there was no way she and Isaac could be real spouses now she had a child, and it was not Isaac¡¯s. Would he be willing to be the stepfather to someone else¡¯s child? Obviously not. As such, why should she hurt herself over it when she knew what would happen? Naturally, she would not keep the card either-but now was not the time to worry over this. Composing herself, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± She gave the chauffeur the specialist¡¯s address. Luckily, he was at home. The specialist Dr Kelly was in his fifties and had white hair on his sideburns, but he appeared very spirited. ¡°This is a consultation, I presume?¡± he asked directly. Irene did not try to hide either. ¡°Yes. My father haste-stage brain cancer. I¡¯m hoping that you¡¯ll pick up his case.¡± Dr. Kelly actually admired Irene as a doctor a while ago, and since she was asking for a family member, he had even less reason to refuse. ¡°I will.¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene said gratefully. ¡°I heard that you¡¯re a connoisseur when ites to tea, so I¡¯ve prepared a small gift for you.¡± As Irene put the china set on the table, Dr. Kelly tried to turn her down. ¡°I can¡¯t ept this¡­¡¯ ¡°Please do. I understand that you¡¯re a frugal person, and you agreed to take my father¡¯s case even though I had not mentioned any reward. That is therefore an entirely different matter from my gift-it¡¯s a token of sincerity from a former junior associate. I¡¯ve always remembered how you helped me in my time as a doctor.¡± Irene was being very earnest, and as it was his favorite pastime, Dr. Kelly epted it. ¡°I shall gratefully ept, then.¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Irene smiled. With the formalities over, they shared some of their medical knowledge. Dr. Kelly was good at what he did because his speciality was one particr affliction, and having worked in the same field for so long, his experience and knowledge was vast. Irene learned much just by speaking with him, and their conversationsted until noon. Dr. Kelly tried to get her to stay for lunch, but Irene felt embarrassed and refused, saying, ¡°I have other matters to attend to.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Dr. Kelly replied. ¡°Also, I think I shall check on your father this afternoon.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene said. ¡°You¡¯re always wee,¡± Dr. Kelly replied. The Runaway Groom Chapter 119 The Runaway Groom Chapter 119 Chapter 119 Irene returned to the mansion after leaving Dr. Kelly¡¯s house, and she nestled on the couch, spacing out. She was wondering if she should tell Sheryl about Lionel. After all, they did live under one roof over two decades as spouses. In fact, she felt that Sheryl had a right to know. As she took her phone from her pocket to make the call, it started to vibrate. It was a video from Sheryl, along with two text messages. In the video, Tommy was wearing a onesie. His hair had grown out with a healthy ck hue, and his little eyes were darting everywhere as he looked around an adorable sight. [Tommy is a month old now, and almost nine pounds. Don¡¯t you think he looks chubbier?] [Just look at him. He really takes after you!] A while ago, Irene already contacted Sheryl and told her that Isaac had taken her from Harvey¡¯s custody, meaning that they still could not meet for the moment. ¡®Now, she told Sheryl that she was doing well and asked Sheryl to take good care of Tommy Not wanting her daughter to worry over nothing, Sheryl replied: [Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll do everything to make sure Tommy gets the best.] Irene smiled as she rewatched the video of Tommy, and replied: (He¡¯s my baby. Of course he would take after me.] Then, after hesitating for a while, she tried to gauge Sheryl¡¯s reaction. [I heard Dad is very sick.] Sheryl replied, but it wook a while. (Just let him die already.] Irene was left staring at the screen, wondering how honest Sheryl was. Was it just out of spite, or was she really keen on Lionel dying? ¡°How about some fruit, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± Mrs. Watson said, carrying a fruit te to her and pulling her out of her reverie. Putting down her phone, Irene picked up a piece of honeydew. At the hospital, Lionel wasying in bed, his eyes sunken, his skin yellowed and still losing weight by the hour. His attending physician soon arrived with Dr. Kelly. They had put him through all the required tests previously, and it was determined that he did not need surgery at this stage, because that would actually allow him to live a little longer. It was a conservative treatment, but it was the best solution they had for him right now. In contrast, a surgery would have limited effect, and he would be risking his life. ¡°Our hospital¡¯s specialist has personallye to visit,¡± Lionel¡¯s doctor told him. Lionel understood the severity of his condition, but was still eager to live. ¡°Thank youing,¡± he told Dr. Kelly, hope showing up in his eyes. ¡°Do I stand a chance?¡± for Dr. Kelly told him, ¡°If you cooperate fully with our treatment, we would certainly do our best in turn, and things would definitely improve from there.¡± Giving patients hope was vital, regardless of the oue. Lionel¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Dr. Kelly replied. ¡°Naturally, you should also rx and not get too obsessed with your condition. We have seen worse cases that got better than we had expected, but their optimism yed a huge role in that.¡± ¡°I understand,¡± Lionel said. ¡°I have also read through your case,¡± Dr. Kelly continued, ¡°and I will be attending to you alongside Dr. Lewitt here. I hope we have your confidence.¡± Lionel nodded repeatedly. ¡°Of course,¡± he said, and asked in curiosity, ¡°By the way, may I just ask why have you taken an interest in my case? After all, he already had an attending physician, which was why he did not try to consult a ¡®specialist. In that case, why would a specialist take his case on his own volition? ¡°Your daughter asked me to,¡± Dr. Kelly told him. ¡°She is a fine daughter.¡± ¡°Irene¡­?¡± Lionel murmured as he realized with a start. In the end, his daughter still cared about him, or she would not have asked a specialist to help him. ¡°She¡¯s a good daughter,¡± Dr. Kelly said, holding his gaze. ¡°You¡¯ve raised her well.¡± Lionel then remembered how he had always tried to stop Irene from bing a doctor, but at that very moment, he actually felt proud of her. He always valued money and influence above all, but now he finally understood the nobility of the medical field! ¡°She¡¯s a good daughter,¡± Lionel murmured, and suddenly desired to see her. After the doctors left, he called Ricky to him. ¡°Ask your sister to meet me. Do whatever you have to ¡± Ricky was wearing a white T-shirt, a casual jacket, white shoes, and ck casual pants. Though he was lounging on a chair in the ward, he was fuming as he remembered what happened when he asked Irene for help. ¡°Why? I went looking for her, but that ingrate doesn¡¯t even care if you die!¡± Lionel frowned, but said firmly, ¡°She¡¯s your sister.¡± ¡°Sister? She certainly doesn¡¯t consider me her brother! I even heard that she could have asked Isaac Jefferson for help when I was convicted, but she didn¡¯t. It¡¯s obvious she doesn¡¯t care ¡± N?velDrama.Org is the owner. Lionel told him patiently, ¡°You need to be more understanding now, Ricky. Just listen to me, and ask for her. I need to speak with her.¡± ¡°She won¡¯te!¡± Ricky yelled indignantly, and rashed out of the ward¡­ only to run into Irene herself at the doorway. He was left gaping when he saw her¨Cwhy was she here?! The Runaway Groom Chapter 120 The Runaway Groom Chapter 120 Chapter 120 Ricky stammered, ¡°I-I thought you¡¯re not going to help? Why are you here?!¡± Irene remained cold as ever. ¡°To remove my ster cast.¡± ¡°Hah! I knew you were an ingrate!¡± Ricky snapped indignantly-she would always be this cold, even though their father was asking to see her from his deathbed! ¡°Mrs. Jefferson has done all she can!¡± Mrs. Watson snapped. ¡°She even consulted- ¡°Mrs. Watson,¡± Irene called out to her, cutting her short. She did not have to exin her actions to anyone, let alone Samantha¡¯s son! Ricky could think whatever he wanted, and she was not obligated to find out or care. Still, Lionel must have heard them in his ward, and called out, ¡°Irene?¡¯ Irene pursed her lips. ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s me.¡± ¡°Come in. I have something to say.¡± Irene was reluctant, and simply said, ¡°You just take care of yourself.¡± ¡°Irene!¡± Lionel¡¯s tone turned forceful just then. ¡°Do I have to get out of my bed?¡± ¡°Stop it, Dad. She must have fed her conscience to the dogs,¡± Ricky snapped. ¡± ¡°Watch what you¡¯re saying!¡± Lionel barked at him, getting off his bed and walking up to the doorway. ¡°Apologize to your sister!¡± ¡°No way!¡± Ricky yelled indignantly. ¡°Do it now!¡± Lionel roared, and started to hack violently. Ricky promptly ran to him and rubbed his back, and apologized reluctantly to Irene so that Lionel would calm down. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Then, turning back to Lionel, he said with concern, ¡°There, I did it, Dad. You have to calm down now- you¡¯re very sick.¡± Lionel¡¯s coughing subsided slightly just then, and he turned toward Irene. ¡°Please.¡± Seeing that his illness was ripping him apart alive, Irene relented, but maintained an indifferent demeanor. ¡°Just say what you want to say. I have things to do.¡± Lionel gestured for Ricky to leave them. ¡°I need to speak with your sister alone.¡± Ricky was prejudiced against Irene, and shot her a re before leaving. Irene took no offense, and moved her wheelchair toward Lionel while telling Mrs. Watson, Wait for me outside.¡± ¡°Okay, Mrs. Jefferson,¡± Mrs. Watson replied as Irene followed Lionel into his ward. Moving to sit on his bed, Lionel studied Irene before saying, ¡°I¡¯m sure you know that I¡¯m terminally ill and won¡¯tst long, but I¡¯d still have to thank you for getting me a specialist. I guess you still consider me your father, huh?¡± Irene kept her gaze lowered in silence. No matter how much she had toin, she could not say a word when he was in this state. Nheless, Lionel sighed and said, ¡°I must now admit that I may have made a mistake. I shouldn¡¯t have forced you to marry Isaac Jefferson-I can help you if you want a divorce.¡± He had always been demanding toward his daughter in ordance with his own desires, and never thought about what she wanted. Therefore, he wanted to do something for her now with what time he had left. Irene was actually surprised. ¡°Can you really do it?¡± ¡°Probably,¡± Lionel replied. ¡°Remember, your grandfather worked as Henry Jefferson¡¯s chauffeur, and even died for him. I might be able to get a word in.¡± That was when Irene became hesitant. She had always wanted to divorce Isaac, but now that she might have a shot, she was actually reluctant. Nheless, her head was clear, and she knows that she must not have feelings with Isaac or be with him. ¡°Do you want a divorce?¡± Lionel asked then. *Irene looked up at him, and replied, ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯ve never done much for you,¡± Lionel said, ¡°so let this be one of them while I¡¯m still alive.¡± There was so much misery in his words. ¡°You¡¯ll get better,¡± Irene said then. ¡°Just follow what the doctor has ordered.¡± Still, both of them knew that it was unlikely-that it was just a matter of how long Lionel wouldst now. ¡± Knowing that Irene was trying to offer himfort, Lionel breathed a long sigh¡­ ¡°Oh, who¡¯s this? What could have brought the great Mrs. Jefferson to a humble ce like this? Samantha eximed as she suddenly showed up at the door, her words dripping with contempt for Irene. Lionel gestured for her to leave. ¡°We¡¯re talking.¡± ¡°What about? Am I not allowed to hear it?¡± Samantha refused to leave-with Lionel on death¡¯s door, she was worried that he would list Irene as the sole heir in his will. That was why she absolutely would not allow them to be alone in one room, in fear that Irene would cajole her way to the Spencer estate. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. Irene, however, was not even bothered to look at Samantha, and simply moved her wheelchair to leave Samantha was not about to give up. ¡°Don¡¯t you hate your father for making you marry Isaac Jefferson? What, you suddenly grew a conscience to visit him? Or maybe you wanted something else?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 121 The Runaway Groom Chapter 121 Chapter 121 ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Lionel snapped at Samantha. The woman simply snorted and ignored him, while warning Irene, ¡°You¡¯re married and you¡¯re no longer a part of our family. Don¡¯t even think of getting a dime from the Spencer estate- everything belongs to Ricky now.¡± Lionel was incensed. ¡°I¡¯m still alive, and you¡¯re talking about inheritance already? You really want me dead, don¡¯t you?¡± If he died now, it would be from all the stress Samantha gave him! Knowing that she had misspoken, Samantha quickly caved and started rubbing his back. ¡± What are you saying? You¡¯re my dependent¡­¡± Naturally, she did not want Lionel to die now, because she had yet to persuade him to leave a will! Irene shot Samantha a look then. It was obvious to her that the woman was already gunning for the Spencer estate, but she said nothing and left the ward. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Mrs. Watson,¡± she said, letting Mrs. Watson hold her wheelchair then. After Irene had her ster cast removed, the doctor told her that she could start walking in a few days. However, she should also refrain from anything strenuous that involved her legs, such as running. With that finished, she checked in with Dr. Kelly and asked about Lionel, who admitted that he was in bad shape and probably would not survive for long. The news left Irene¡¯s heart sinking. ¡°However, we will do what we can to ensure that he gets as many remaining days as possible,¡± Dr. Kelly finished. ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene said earnestly. Nheless, her head felt muddled as she left the hospital, and she was too distracted to finish her food during dinner. She simply showered afterward andy down in bed. Perhaps because work kept him, Isaac returned homete. He put on a gray silk bathrobe after he showered. His tall, muscr frame looked good in anything- naturally, he was a delightful sight to behold in that bathrobe too! Hey behind Irene, who woke up when he entered. Still, she pretended to be asleep and did not move. Isaac simply wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her into him deep within his embrace. His chest was sturdy and very warm, and the sensation left Irene¡¯s heart racing. She kept her eyes tightly shut and lightly clenched on the pillow when Isaac leaned in and whispered into her ear, ¡°Are you sleeping?¡± Irene stayed silent, but Isaac¡¯s body wafted with a faint scent of herbal freshness. Even as his warm breath spilled into her ear, he chuckled in amusement and heart-melting tenderness.¡± You¡¯re really bad at pretending.¡± He knew! Irene flinched, his body turning soft in his arms and rasped, ¡°Why were youte?¡± ¡°Had things to do,¡± he replied. ¡°Actually, I¡¯ll be busy over the next few days as well.¡± ¡°I see. Now, sleep-it¡¯s veryte,¡± she replied, not daring to move or continue the conversation. She was afraid things would spiral out of control from there. Isaac was a healthy, strapping man, and he would be lying if he said that he did not want to do anything now-with the woman he loved in his arms. Still, tensions were just beginning to ease between them. He did not want to scare her off bying on too strong. Slow and steady was the way forward. However, if he were to sleep while holding her in his arms now, she would eventually ept that they were married. *Irene woke early the next morning, and she put the Centurion Card that Isaac had given her in front of him at the breakfast table, saying, ¡°You told me that this card only has the money for the painting. I can¡¯t take something this valuable.¡± Isaac put down her fork. ¡°We¡¯re married. What¡¯s mine is yours.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not good with money-it¡¯s better if you keep it,¡± Irene said, deliberately avoiding mentioning a divorce. For all she knew, Lionel would have spoken to Henry already, and she must not keep the card at all. Original from N?velDrama.Org. Nheless, Isaac nced at the card once but pushed it back to her. ¡°Hold on to it for me,¡± he said, before asking, ¡°Are you going anywhere today?¡± Irene stared at the card and sighed. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Your leg has recovered, so how about going to work at Central Hospital again?¡± Isaac suggested. ¡°I can make the arrangements.¡± Irene¡¯s fingers clenched around her ss of milk. She wanted to work, but she could not say yes. If Lionel seeded, she might really get to divorce Isaac soon and be free to move to Sunny City, but she would have to give up on her dream job in turn. Bzzt- Isaac¡¯s phone suddenly started vibrating on the table. It was a call, and when he answered it, his expression darkened right then! The Runaway Groom Chapter 122 The Runaway Groom Chapter 122 Chapter 122 ¡°When did that happen?!¡± Isaac barked. ¡°I¡¯m guessing in thest 48 hours,¡± Stan replied from the other end. ¡°I just received word myself.¡± ¡°Find her!¡± Isaac bellowed then. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± When he hung up, Isaac flung his phone at the table, smacking it loudly as if to reflect his mood. ¡°What happened?¡± Irene asked. ¡°Is it really that bad?¡± For Isaac, it could well be-Whitney Cox had just been rescued by her former me, the rich kid named Chad Ross. Meeting Irene¡¯s gaze, Isaac told her, ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± However, he would never allow Whitney to stay unpunished-she had impersonated Irene, and had indirectly caused him to kill his own child! On the other hand, Irene did not dwell on the matter. She simply presumed that it was a bad day at the office, and kept eating. After they finished breakfast and were ready to leave, Moneypenny-the butler from Jefferson Manor- arrived, and told Isaac, ¡°Master Isaac, Master Jefferson is asking to see you. Please return to the manor with me, if convenient.¡± ¡°Understood,¡± Isaac replied, and turned toward Irene, ¡°Stay here. Take your time to rest.¡± Irene nodded her leg had recovered but was hardly limber. As Isaac headed out, Moneypenny followed. Just as he stepped out the front door, he turned to look at Irene. When she saw the look in his eyes, she realized why Henry was asking for Isaac. Did Lionel speak to Henry already? Was Henry really going to tell Isaac to divorce her? Even as she moved to sit on the couch, she felt a little tense, and her eyes seemed unfocused. But why was she being tense? She wanted a divorce, did she not? Still, she found herself heinous when she considered how nice Isaac had beentely. However, she soop perished the thought, hating herself to even think it. Original from N?velDrama.Org. This was not right. How could she fall in love with the man who had indirectly killed one of her children? Be that as it may, she knew very well by now that she had be attracted to Isaac. Perhaps that was never in her control in the first ce. Meanwhile, Henry was waiting by the time Isaac arrived at Jefferson Manor. ¡°Come, sit,¡± he beckoned. Isaac politely refused, and asked directly, ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°Well¡­¡± Henry sighed. ¡°I¡¯ve been mistaken to think that Irene would be a loyal, upstanding person like her grandfather. I wanted her to care for you, but I¡¯ve now realized my mistake- she was never the right person for you.¡± Isaac felt a foreboding sensation right then. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°You never wanted this marriage. It¡¯s time for a divorce.¡± Henry said. In fact, Henry had been increasingly unhappy with Irene. First, she went missing for months-how could a married woman do something as scandalous as that? And then there were the shady rumors that she had a man before marrying Isaac, and became pregnant as a result! Naturally, a woman like her did not deserve Isaac. Moreover, Lionel had visited Henry, begging for him to get Isaac to divorce her! It was like an apple falling right into hisp-he naturally agreed to do it. ¡°Did shee to you? Did she tell you that she wants a divorce?¡± Isaac growled, maintaining a stoic expression although the air around him was suddenly icy. ¡°No, it was her father,¡± Henry replied. ¡°He was on knees, begging for my help. I¡¯m sure Irene must have talked him into it too-do you remember how much he wanted to have her marry you before? I know the man, and she must have been obstinate enough to actually make him desperate enough and regret his choice. That¡¯s the only reason he came to ask me for help ¡± Pausing to sigh, Henry added, ¡°You never loved her anyway-¡± ¡°Grandfather,¡± Isaac said, suddenly cutting him short, ¡°it doesn¡¯t matter why we got married we¡¯re married now, and she¡¯s my wife. I¡¯d never agree to a divorce even if she wants it!¡± With that, he rose to his feet and strode outside. Then, pausing by the door while keeping his back to Henry, he added, ¡°Also, I hope you won¡¯t meddle in my affairs ever again.¡± With that, he left. The Runaway Groom Chapter 123 The Runaway Groom Chapter 123 Chapter 123 Moneypenny walked up to Henry. ¡°Sir, don¡¯t you think Master Isaac looks a little upset?¡± Henry sighed. ¡°What, can¡¯t you tell?¡± Isaac¡¯s stance was only too obvious! Moneypenny then offered a theory. ¡°Perhaps he is refusing because he fell in love?¡± Henry naturally picked up on it too. ¡°This is all on me. I never did check on Irene Spencer thoroughly before I arranged for her to marry Isaac. And now, it¡¯s going to be difficult to get him to divorce her.¡± ¡°You know his temper,¡± Moneypenny pointed out. ¡°Things will only get difficult if he really doesn¡¯t want a divorce.¡± ¡°Not exactly,¡± Henry countered. ¡°Did you forget that he has an Achilles¡¯ heel?¡± Moneypenny was puzzled. ¡°Are you referring to that?¡± ¡°Yes. He had always been obsessed with it-the silver crucifix of the girl who had saved him when he was ten, when he fell in the pool. He tried looking for her, and I helped too, but we never could because there were too many people visiting our house on that day.¡± ¡°But if we can¡¯t find her after so many years, there¡¯s surely no reason we¡¯re able to do so now? Moneypenny asked. ¡± Henry gave him a look. ¡°That¡¯s not the point. The point is to get Isaac to believe it.¡± Moneypenny appeared confused. ¡°Old fool,¡± Henry chuckled. ¡°We just have to find a girl we can count on, and have her tell him that she¡¯s the one he was looking for.¡± Moneypenny was worried. ¡°But would Master Isaac buy it?¡± Henry was miffed that his butler was so slow just then. ¡°He was just ten-how many details. can he remember? We just have to tell our girl every detail we know, and Isaac will buy it once she gives him the same story.¡± Nheless, Moneypenny was prudent enough to catch on to a little detail. ¡°Yes, but if she showed up out of the blue, Master Isaac would be sharp enough to catch on. Just think about it ¡ªwhy is she showing up now, just as you¡¯re trying to get him to divorce Irene Spencer? Doesn¡¯t, that look suspicious?¡± Henry suddenly realized that it was true. ¡°What do you think we should do, then?¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s not that difficult,¡± Moneypenny replied. ¡°First, we embed a girl you appreciate in Master Isaac¡¯s orbit, and have her inadvertently reveal that she had been here in the past and saved a boy. That way, Master Isaac will connect the dots on his own, without getting suspicious of anything¡± Henry gave Moneypenny a look of approval-it was a good idea, but the question now was: who was the right girl? ¡°Plenty of fish in the sea, sir,¡± Moneypenny replied when Henry asked. ¡°You can take your time¡± Meanwhile, Irene was sitting in a private booth opposite Zachary. He had been drinking himself silly for a while now, as he was still hung up on Lulu. He came to the mansion looking for her soon after Isaac left. She wanted to say something tofort him, but could not find the right words, and simply gave himpany as he got drunk again. ¡°You women are liars-all of you.¡± His shirt was unkempt, and he burped a mouthful of alcoholic gas, and pushed himself off the couch, wobbling for a while and grabbing himself another bottle. As he sat, he missed the couch and dropped on the floor on his posterior, but simply leaned against the couch and stayed on the floor. As he drank, he asked, ¡°Tell me, Irene¡­ What¡¯s Lulu¡¯s husband like?¡± Irene pursed her lips. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± How could she, after all? Lulu was never in another rtionship after Zachary. As she took a sip as well, Zachary was mumbling nkly while misery showed in his eyes. She betrayed me¡­ married another man and even had a child. Have you met the kid?¡± ¡°He was just a tiny button,¡± he rasped as he gestured with his hands. ¡°If only the kid were mine¡­¡± Irene listened to him ramble in silence, suddenly able to understand Zachary¡¯s pain. Original from N?velDrama.Org. She knew that Isaac might divorce her soon, and actually felt a sense of loss. She knew she should not feel that way-to harbor such unnecessary feelings. ¡± Finishing her drink, she said, ¡°That¡¯s enough. No more juice for you-get up, it¡¯s time to go home.¡± ¡°No¡­¡± Zachary waved her off. Unable to move him by herself, Irene asked Jimmy the chauffeur to help carry him to the car and drove him home, after which they returned to the mansion. She was feeling tipsy and wanted to take a short nap, but dozed off instead. She was sleeping soundly and did not wake up even though the door opened. It took a while when she woke up with a groggy head. Night had fallen outside, but since no one turped on the lights in her room, it seemed even darker inside. She rubbed her eyes, but noticed a shadow standing by the bed just as she got up. ¡°Is that you, Isaac?¡± she asked tentatively. There was no response! As she reached out to the shadow, however¡­ she was suddenly pushed down! ¡°Kyah!¡± she yelped as she felt as if she was pushed into the mattress, and pinned down violently! The Runaway Groom Chapter 124 The Runaway Groom Chapter 124 Chapter 124 Amidst the confusion, Irene saw that Isaac was on top of her. ¡°W-What¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked, but it was as if he was unable to hear her as he violently shredded her clothes. He was no different from a rampaging beast-violent and unreasonable. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. Irene struggled, but her strength was insignificant to him, and she felt chills all over as her clothes were torn off, leaving her naked right before him. Her eyes welling with tears, she rasped, ¡°Why are you doing this?!¡± ¡°That¡¯s my question!¡± he snarled with a coldness that reverberated from his throat. ¡°You had your father beg for a divorce! Could you stoop any lower?!¡± Irene did a double take-Lionel had actually begged Henry just to help her get a divorce? She felt a stuffy sensation over her chest, and suddenly could not breathe. Isaac furiously grabbed her chin then, ¡°Have I not done right by you? Is your heart really made of ice? Huh?!¡± Irene looked him straight in the eye then, and saw his disappointment, heartache, and destion. Her lips were trembling she wanted to say something, but did not know where to start. Eventually, she blinked back her tears and braced herself, snapping, ¡°Yes, I want a divorce that badly! Oof-¡± Isaac sped a hand over her mouth! He was being rough and merciless, but she did not hate that at all. She knew what made him so crazy. It was her demand for a divorce her insistence on leaving him! That was the very moment she found love. Every grievance and grudge between them suddenly seemed to vanish, as she reveled in the moment! She suddenly felt an odd sense of familiarity as if they had known each other even before their sham marriage, but was soon brought back to reality before she could ponder the idea. Isaac leaped off the bed when it was over, got dressed, and left the room. Irene was leftying in bed, unable to get up as she was aching all over. She stayed silent as she listened to her storm off, saying nothing as she stared at the ceiling She felt feeble and lost, and behind her eyes was a turbulence of emotions. Her lips suddenly curled up in a self deprecating smile. She had always despised women who were loose with their morals, but after a year, she was one of them now, spreading her legs to two different men. Her nostrils were moist and she was on the verge of tears-it all began with one mistake, and everything was a downward spiral from there. She would never have been pregnant or went intobor if she had defended herself that night, and she would never have had a child. And she could have properly considered Isaac¡¯s feelings for her without any pressure. But now? She breathed a long sigh and closed her eyes, a crystalline tear trickling out of the corner of her eye and disappearing within her hair. ¡­ Meanwhile, Isaac had left the mansion. When Stan arrived for work the next morning, he found Isaac standing before the curtain wall, his shirt loose and wrinkled. It was a far cry from his usual primness. Walking up to the man, he asked, ¡°What brought you here so early, sir?¡± Isaac¡¯s response was aplete non sequitur. ¡°Tell me, why do you think Irene Spencer is so *bent on divorcing me?¡± Stan Hill did a double take. Isaac had always been high and mighty, never once deferring to anyone. It was certainly the first time Stan had seen him like this. Stan suggested, ¡°Maybe she does have feelings for you, but she refuses to acknowledge it because you hurt her before?¡± Isaac certainly agreed that it was one of the reasons-especially when it had caused her miscarriages. The Runaway Groom Chapter 125 The Runaway Groom Chapter 125 Chapter 125 Isaac knew that he had no one to me but himself. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. Even so, Irene¡¯s obstinance on getting a divorce left him feeling unbearable, no matter how he tried to endure and tolerate her actions-she would even go as far as to have her own father beg Henry! It was clear that she would not change her mind once she made her choice, but such was her nature. Now, he was even less eager to tell the truth of what had happened that night-would she not hate him more if she found out? ¡°Why don¡¯t you test her, and see if she cares?¡± Stan suggested. Turning to him, Isaac asked, ¡°How?¡± ¡°Well, just hang out with other women,¡± Stan said. ¡°She would not care if all she feels toward you is spite, but she would be jealous if she has feelings for you.¡± Isaac scowled. ¡°Why do I even bother asking?¡± Stan was speechless-what was wrong with his idea? It was basically perfect! Naturally, confident as he was, Stan said, ¡°Well, do you have better ideas? That¡¯s the only option to test her now.¡± Isaac mused to himself for a while, and eventually said, ¡°Fine, you¡¯re in charge. Just get a woman that we can get rid of easily.¡± ¡°Understood,¡± Stan replied. Suddenly, Isaac asked, ¡°By the way, have you found Whitney Cox yet?¡± ¡°We¡¯re on it, sir.¡± ¡°Find her-dead or alive.¡± There was a sinister tone in Isaac¡¯s voice just then. ¡°Of course, sir,¡± Stan replied. ¡°It was my negligence that afforded Chad Ross an opening.¡± Irene did not leave the mansion for the day, and was rehabilitating her foot per her doctor¡¯s instructions. She could walk now, and was fine as long as she did not stress her foot. However, she simply could not focus today, and had no idea why that was happening. Her mind seemed muddled, and she caught herself checking the time on asion¡­ As if she was waiting for something-or perhaps someone? Mrs. Watson could see that something was weighing on her mind, and hence asked, ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, you¡¯ve been staring at the clock for a while now. Are you that eager for Mr. Jefferson toe home?¡± Irene snorted. ¡°I¡¯m not.¡± ¡°Now, now, I¡¯ve been watching.¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°You¡¯re married, and this is just how it should be.¡± Irene lowered her gaze. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Of course-the way you¡¯re waiting for Mr. Jeffersoning home is exactly that.¡± Mrs. Watson beamed. ¡°Am I being that obvious?¡± Irene asked her. ¡°What do you think?¡± Mrs. Watson asked in return. ¡°When you¡¯re married, you should be honest. I don¡¯t know why you were so distant from Mr. Jefferson before, but you shoulde clean if there¡¯s something you¡¯ve been hiding. It¡¯s everyone¡¯s win if he can ept it, and even if he can¡¯t, at least you two understand each other.¡± Irene pursed her lips. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that he¡¯ll hurt¡­ Her son. And she had witnessed how furious Isaac can get. ¡°But hiding is not the way either, y¡¯know?¡± Mrs. Watson told her. Irene agreed, and seeing that she was moved, Mrs. Watson pressed, ¡°Just go to him, Mrs. Jefferson. You¡¯re done with rehab for the day anyway.¡± Beguiled by Mrs. Watson, Irene actually got Jimmy the chauffeur to drive her to the Light Group offices. Still, she realized that she was being impulsive when she arrived at the entrance. She turned and was about to leave when she saw Isaac stepping out. It was toote for her to hide, so she braced herself to greet him¡­ only to see the young, pretty girl following him. And the instant Isaac saw Irene, he put an arm around the girl¡¯s waist! The Runaway Groom Chapter 126 The Runaway Groom Chapter 126 Chapter 126 Irene¡¯s expression darkened as she stared at Isaac holding that girl. It hurt-as if someone had shoved her heart on a meat hook ¡°Did youe looking for me?¡± he asked her then, looking fixedly at her as if afraid to miss a sliver of her reaction. Irene, however, feigned nonchnce and shed an impable smile. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t. I was just passing by, and I have something else to do. I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡± With that, she returned to the car, and urged Jimmy to drive away as fast as he could. ¡°Move, now!¡± All she wanted right then was to get out of that ce, and even as the car moved, she did not even look out of the window once, as if fearful that she would see Isaac holding another woman again. She wanted to p herself right then she actually came to make peace, ande clean to him! ¡°He¡¯s the enemy!¡± she murmured, giggling self-deprecatingly. ¡°You must have gone crazy- .or drugged, Irene Spencer! To think you¡¯d fall for the man who killed your child!¡± ¡°Mrs. Jefferson¡­¡± Jimmy murmured as he nced at her through the rearview mirror. Talking to herself and looking a little too agitated¡­ Did she finally lose it? Irene rubbed her face behind her palms andposed herself. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she said. ¡°Shall we head to the mansion?¡± Jimmy asked. Irene shook her head. ¡°No. Let¡¯s go to the hospital.¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org. They soon arrived, but as Irene alighted and headed to Lionel¡¯s ward and knocked on the door, she heard Samantha¡¯s voice from within. ¡°Come on, Ricky. You know that your father won¡¯t live long, so curry his favor and always be wary of Irene. There¡¯s a chance she¡¯ll beat you to your father¡¯s estate, even though you¡¯re his only son and you deserve everything he has.¡¯ However, it appeared as if Ricky did not like what his mother was saying. ¡°Why are you talking about the inheritance already, Mom? Dad is still alive!¡± ¡°I¡¯m just nning ahead for you, alright?¡± Samantha insisted, because she knew that Lionel still cared about Irene and wanted to be prepared for any surprises. ¡°You really have to be smart now, Ricky. Be sweet to your father, make him happy and don¡¯t cause more trouble. Also, stop Irene from meeting him at all costs, or she¡¯s going to try to sweeten him up for favors. I mean, what would happen to us if your father suddenly has a rush. of poo to the brain, and gives her everything? You know I¡¯m not married to him, and you¡¯re still an illegitimate son. We have to be cautious.¡± Ricky, however, was not as devious as Samantha. ¡°I¡¯m his son. He¡¯d never abandon me.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you see?! Sheryl Harris left town for almost a whole year just to force him into a divorce, but your father refused¡¯ He must still have feelings for her he doesn¡¯t care about us! ¡°Samantha snapped, the very idea leaving her fuming Sheryl was clearly eager for a divorce, but Lionel just had to refuse! It was obvious that he never wanted to marry her. In that case, what did she amount to?! Irene had wanted to meet Lionel, but overheard that conversation instead While the Spencer family did have some estate left, she was not sure about the precise figures. However, Samantha was already ready to round up everything while Lionel was still alive? She certainly did not want to see Samantha, but just as she turned to leave, Lionel stepped out of a room after finishing a test ¡°Irene?¡± he called out to her when he saw her Irene turned, and saw him smiling ¡°Did youe to see me?¡± Lionel was naturally happy that she woulde to visit without being asked, especially since she had been indifferent toward him before Irene nodded. ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°Come in, then,¡± Lionel said warmly. ¡°Maybe next time,¡± Irene replied, excusing herself because Samantha was there. However, Samantha must have heard them, and opened the door to greet her with an ambiguous tone. ¡°Oh, Irene! Did youe to visit your father?¡± Irene could not stand the sight of Samantha just then. Though she hade to realize Ricky was rtively innocent, Samantha could corrupt him no matter how kind hearted he was Also, coveting the family estate just because Lionel was sick? Had she ever been sincere toward Lionel, or was she after his money from the very start? ¡°I¡¯m my father¡¯s daughter,¡± Irene said. ¡°Is there something wrong with me visiting him?¡± Samantha¡¯s face fell. ¡°Haven¡¯t you hated him all this while? And now, you¡¯re suddenly his daughter again? You just want his money, don¡¯t you?¡± Irene never wanted to argue about inheritance, but Samantha¡¯s repeated mention of it left her repulsed, so she snapped, ¡°Oh, I never thought about it thanks for reminding me. I guess 1 should properly fawn over my daddy, so that he¡¯ll give me a bigger share!¡± Smantha was furious. ¡°You little-¡± ¡°That¡¯s enough,¡± Lionel was getting irritated with the way they had to bicker every time they met. ¡°You¡¯ll annoy me to death even if this cancer doesn¡¯t kill me!¡± Considering his health, Irene quickly said, ¡°Thank you, Dad.¡± She was rarely this sentimental toward him, and Lionel actually felt emotional just then. ¡°It¡¯s what I should do,¡± he replied. With that, all the past grievances between father and daughter were cleared away, while Samantha was left utterly confused. ¡°Lionel, why is she thanking you? What did you do for her?¡± she asked. ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Lionel answered coolly. The Runaway Groom Chapter 127 The Runaway Groom Chapter 127 Chapter 127 As Lionel stepped inside his ward, he told Samantha, ¡°You can leave. I don¡¯t need you here.¡± Samantha quickly tried to appease him. ¡°You can¡¯t be alone, right? I¡¯ll stay.¡± However, Lionel had already seen through her and what she wanted. ¡°You just want my inheritance, don¡¯t you?¡± he asked, exposing her right then. ¡°No!¡± Samantha quickly exined. ¡°I¡¯m fine without it, but you have to take care of Ricky. He has a criminal record, and there¡¯s every chance he won¡¯t get a good career. You have to think of him!¡± Lionel was not bothered with her rant, and simplyy down in bed! Was he that stupid that he would not look after his own son? Meanwhile, Irene had left quietly, and Ricky followed her out of the building. ¡°Sis,¡± he called out to her. Turning to look at him with an impassive expression, she asked, ¡°What?¡± ¡°I heard that you¡¯re the one who got a specialist to help Dad,¡± Ricky said earnestly, his .hostility toward her before nowhere to be seen. ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me. He¡¯s my father too,¡± Irene replied, and left. They had nothing else to talk about anyway. Back at Light Group¡¯s offices, Isaac released the girl beside him the instant Irene turned around. Her name was Kathy Young, and she was a secretary that Stan had hired for Isaac! Naturally, Isaac had another secretary and did not need Kathy-in fact, Kathy was ipetent and inexperienced, and had nothing going for her aside from a certification from a famous university. This is from N?velDrama.Org. Stan kept her just for her looks, and she was a good choice to make Irene jealous. ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± She had felt despondent when Isaac removed his hand. ¡°Tell Stan Hill toe downstairs,¡± Isaac coolly told her, and strode away. Kathy was puzzled ¨C he was being intimate one moment, and icily distant the next. What was he thinking? Still, she was new here and should not ask too many questions, and did as she was told. When Stan arrived downstairs, he walked up to Isaac¡¯s car. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson?¡± ¡°She saw us, but she¡¯s not upset. Does that mean he really doesn¡¯t care about me?¡± Isaac asked him Isaac was smart, but tended to fumble when it came to Irene perhaps he was having tunnel vision, or because he was just too impatient to conquer her It was also why he bought Stan¡¯s advice. Naturally, he was despondent to see that Irene could smile even when she saw him with Kathy He was hence irritated and convinced that Stan¡¯s idea was a dud Irene was not jealous at all! ¡°Are you sure she¡¯s not pretending?¡± Stan asked ¡°Just send that woman away,¡± Isaac snapped, and drove off Stan was left behind, feeling that Isaac was already giving up on a good n halfway! After all, it might not be enough for Irene to see them together once As he turned around and headed inside the building, he found Kathy waiting ¡°Did I make a mistake?¡± she asked softly. ¡°Is Mr Jefferson upset?¡± Upset? Stan wanted to tell her right then that Isaac was suffering a terrible case of unrequited love! Nheless, he suddenly had the idea of sending her to Isaac¡¯s mansion, to cook him his favorite food, but mostly to get Irene to react. ¡°Can you cook?¡± he asked. Kathy shook her head. So that was another dud. ¡°Well, what can you do?¡± Stan asked. ¡°Sing and dance,¡± Kathy replied. Stan was speechless. ¡°Mr. Hill, you¡¯re not really hiring me as a secretary, are you?¡± Kathy asked just then. ¡± Everything you¡¯ve told me to do isn¡¯t within a secretary¡¯s job description¡­¡± ¡°A secretary¡¯s job is to care for their boss,¡± Stan retorted. ¡°Walk with me.¡± Kathy nodded and followed him, and Stan issued instructions as they walked. ¡°There¡¯s something you need to do, and do well.¡± ¡°Of course. Tell me,¡± Kathy said. The Runaway Groom Chapter 128 The Runaway Groom Chapter 128 Chapter 128 Stan beckoned for Kathy toe closer before whispering into her ear. Her pretty eyes abruptly lit up with a twinkle, and when Stan was finished, she said, understand.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t even think about stepping out of line, understand?¡± ¡°Understood,¡± Kathy said tamely. ¡°Good.¡± ¡°I Later in the evening, once Stan had confirmed that Isaac had returned to his mansion, he notified Kathy. In the mansion, Irene was nestled on the couch and reading a book, and acted as if she did not see Isaac return-even if her mind already drifted away from her book. She wondered how Isaac could pretend that he loved her when he had other women on the side ¡­ even doing that to her! She knew it. All men thought with their scrotums, doing it just because they wanted, even if love was not involved. And here she thought Isaac lost control because he was furious! He was no exception to the scrotum rule any pretty face will do! Casually throwing his jacket on the couch just then, Isaac stood beside the table and stared at her. ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything to say to me?¡± Irene turned toward him and smiled. ¡°Nope.¡± She acted as cool as a cucumber even if she did not feel that way, in fear that she messed up again. Also, if she threw a hissy fit, would she not be exposing herself that she cared? Even if she did, she would act like she did not because he was not worth it! Meanwhile, Isaac was pursuing his lips and staring straight at her. Was she really this cold? This indifferent, even after they literally bared themselves to each other? Annoyed, he forcefully pulled off his necktie and threw it at Irene-acting petty like a child! ¡°Heartless woman!¡± he snapped, and stormed upstairs. Irene was actually left betweenughter and tears. Why was he upset? What was there to be upset about? He was surrounded by babes at work, and now he was trying to tell her that he cared about her? She was not falling for it this time! ¡°Don¡¯t you know how fake you are?¡± she dissed him coolly. Isaac stopped in his tracks, just as Irene continued, ¡°You refuse to divorce me and tell me that you love me, but you¡¯re fooling around with other girls the next instant. Hell, did you swindle them the way you swindled me?¡± Was she jealous?Original from N?velDrama.Org. Isaac tried to keep his excitement in check as he strode downstairs-but there was no hiding his glee, as it was showing in his visage. ¡°Are you upset?¡± His tone was suddenly light. Irene was not about to fall for his tricks again. ¡°Upset? What¡¯s there to be upset about? I¡¯d rather you mess around with as many women as you want, so that you can divorce me sooner and get out of my hair.¡± Isaac¡¯s glee quickly faded-reced by disappointment, even anger! ¡°Out, Mrs. Watson!¡± he snapped. Mrs. Watson kept her head down and did so immediately, whereas Irene became wary. ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°What do you think?¡± Isaac sneered. *Irene had no idea, but it would definitely not be anything good. She had ended up with one broken leg thest time he flipped out, which she had just happened to recover from. She certainly did not want to get hurt again! Leaping off the couch, she hid in a corner while snapping, ¡°What¡¯s your deal, Isaac Jefferson, constantly abusing a woman?! Divorce me if you consider yourself a man!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 129 The Runaway Groom Chapter 129 Chapter 129 ¡°Divorce you?!¡± Isaac¡¯s cheek was twitching as crimson fury red in his eyes. He really wanted to gouge her heart out and see what it was made of-how could she be so heinous?! ¡°No, you¡¯ll never get a divorce. Your soul belongs to me even if you die!¡± Irene felt like she could lose her mind just then. She tried to give up on her spite and have a heart-to-heart talk with him, but he was messing around with other women! She felt so stupid for almost believing that he actually loved her! ¡°Fine! I¡¯ll announce to the world tomorrow that I¡¯m your wife, and I cheated on you all the time with different men, even getting pregnant! I¡¯ll make you get sick of me!¡± Isaac almost choked from that just then. She was really killing him! ¡°Just try it!!!! ¡°¡±You think I won¡¯t?!¡± Irene retorted with equal staunchness. N?velDrama.Org holds this content. It was going nowhere, so Isaac took a deep breath topose himself. ¡°How could you be so callous?¡± At the same time, Irene¡¯s chest was heaving from sheer frustration. Did he really just say that? When he had toyed with her feelings?! And now he is acting like he cared again! That was when they heard a knock on the front door, and Mrs. Watson called out, ¡°Mr. Jefferson? A Ms. York is asking for you.¡± Irene turned towards the door. Ms. York? On the other hand, Isaac frowned. He remembered telling Stan to get rid of her! Why was she showing up here now? ¡°Tell her to leave!¡± he barked coldly. Kathy was actually at the door, and did not leave even though she heard Isaac. ¡°I am just here to deliver a document, sir.¡± Isaac frowned, but Irene thought that he was still pretending. He even had a hand on her waist, and now he was acting as if there was nothing between them? She really wanted to tell him that he would make a good actor just then! Deciding for him just then, she said, ¡°Let her in, Mrs. Watson.¡± Kathy entered the instant Mrs. Watson opened the door-it was obvious that she had dolled herself up beforeing, having changed into fresh clothes and putting on even more borate makeup. Irene looked at her, and then herself-her clothes were wrinkled from sitting on the couch, her hair was a mess and there was no makeup on her face at all. Kathy was her pr opposite. It was as if every inch of her had been worked on immactely. Judging from that alone, it was no coincidence that Isaac would desire her-she had what it took to seduce man. Irene actually felt herself a mess before her. Picking up her book, she told Isaac, ¡°You need to talk about work, right? I¡¯ll stay upstairs-I won¡¯t impose.¡± But even as she tried to make her escape, Isaac caught her wrist just as he walked past her. He had the feeling that this was another of Stan¡¯s terrible ideas¡­ but Irene was getting even more distant due to their misunderstanding, and he did not like being around a woman he did not know. In fact, it was annoying and even revolting. ¡°You¡¯re not imposing,¡± he said. Irene leaned in to whisper into his ear then, ¡°How are you going to cop a feel when I¡¯m around?¡± There was no telling if she was mocking Isaac or being jealous, leaving him a little speechless just then. Lowering his gaze, he asked quietly, ¡°Are you jealous?¡± ¡°Nope.¡± Irene naturally refused to admit it. That was when Isaac suddenly had a thought. Was she being cold and contemptible because she had seen him with Kathy and got upset? His gloomy mood eased considerably, and he smiled, ¡°If you say so.¡± His reaction left Irene puzzled. Why is he being so vtile? She simply could not get a read on him! Meanwhile, Kathy was left standing there, feeling out of ce. Isaac was even acting as if she did not exist. To draw their attention, she said, ¡°Mr. Jefferson, the documents?¡± ¡°Put it on the table, and you can leave,¡± he said tly. ¡°Of course,¡± she said evenly, and after she did so, she asked, ¡°So, are we going to the hotel today?¡± Isaac¡¯s face darkened at her words! The Runaway Groom Chapter 130 The Runaway Groom Chapter 130 Chapter 130 Furious, Irene knocked Isaac¡¯s hand away They had already nned to get a room, and he was still pretending as if he cared about her? Right in front of his lover? His talent was wasted as CEO. He should be an actor instead! ¡°You¡¯re a liar!¡± she snapped, and started to run upstairs. However, her foot might have been still too stiff, or she was moving too quickly, or perhaps. she was simply too distracted¡­ she almost tripped on the stairs, but caught the scaffolding in time so that she did not actually fall That left her even more frustrated. Forget making a fool of herself in front of Isaac she was doing it in front of his lover too! ¡°Stupid mansion!¡± she snapped grumpily. ¡°They can¡¯t even get the design right when they built it!¡± Isaac stared at her and said, ¡°If you say so. Let¡¯s demolish this ce and build it in a design you prefer.¡± *Irene wheeled on him and shot him a re See? He was flirting with her again! ¡°Why do you care? Go to the hotel already!¡± Irene huffed as she rushed upstairs. Isaac was actually happy to see Irene upset. Did that mean she was jealous, and cared about him? Delight showed on his face at the very thought, and his tone was a lot less cold. Turning to Kathy, he asked, ¡°Stan told you to do this?¡± Kathy spaced out for a moment. Realizing that Isaac was talking to her, she quickly said, ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± In reality, Stan did not-he had only told her to show up at the mansion using the documents as an excuse, so that Irene saw her again. Kathy, however, intended for them to split up! ¡°Got it. You may go now,¡± Isaac said, once again distant as he asked Mrs. Watson to escort her put. Still, Kathy was not in a rush to seed, and politely left with Mrs. Watson. Isaac then called Stan and called him to the mansion. While Stan¡¯s n did help, he had done it without Isaac¡¯s permission and almost messed up everything! And that was uneptable! After finishing his call, he headed upstairs. Irene was in her room, having hidden herself under her nket. Her head was much clearer now. She got agitated just now, did she not? What was Isaac going to think of her now? Argh! How could she have done something so embarrassing? It was killing her! If only she had a hole to hide in! Even if she was really upset, she should never have shown it to Isaac. He must now beughing at how silly she was! That was when Isaac opened the door, and found her lying sprawled in bed looking utterly vexed. He grinned. To think that she had this adorable side to her¡­. Though he tiptoed inside, Irene sensed a presence and promptly sat up. Seeing that it was him, she dissed, ¡°Why are you in my room? Shouldn¡¯t you be in a hotel room?¡± Isaac simply stared at her calmly,pletely unaffected. His stare somehow left her bristling and bad-tempered, and she snapped, ¡°I¡¯m not falling for it again! Don¡¯t bother putting the moves on me!¡± ¡°Are you upset?¡± He smiled. Irene snorted. ¡°Upset? What¡¯s there to be upset about? I¡¯d rather you mess around with more WomenN?velDrama.Org holds this content. ¡°Can you be honest for once?¡± Isaac interrupted. Irene was not about to let up, and she certainly would not admit her feelings. ¡°What, am I not honest enough? I¡¯m just telling it as it is! All I want is a di-¡± Isaac suddenly lunged toward her, held the back of her head, and kissed her lips to stop her mid- sentence. He refused to hear the word ¡®divorce¡±! Nheless, Irene repeatedly punched him on the chest and shoulder, and wed at him when that failed. ¡°Umph¡­ Let¡­ Me¡­ Go!!!¡± ¡°Irene.¡± Isaac grabbed both her hands and looked her straight in the eyes with a serious gaze. I¡¯m not involved with other women.¡± ¡°You¡¯re a liar-¡± ¡°I¡¯m not. Stan Hill arranged for thatdy toe just now. It was his idea to have you see me with other women, and he said that you have feelings for me if you end up jealous.¡± Brushing his finger over the back of her hand, Isaac then added softly, ¡°Did you know how happy I was to see that you were jealous?¡± Irene bit her lip. Did that mean she had fallen for his ruse? She hung her head-that was even more embarrassing than before! Nheless, Isaac held her chin and made her look up at him. ¡°Stop asking for a divorce. Can¡¯t we just stay like this?¡± As Irene looked into his eyes, she understood that her feelings were now under his control. Because she was in love with him. ¡°I¡­¡± she murmured, her voice turning hoarse instantly while her eyes welled with tears. The Runaway Groom Chapter 131 The Runaway Groom Chapter 131 Chapter 131 Looking into Irene¡¯s eyes, Issac told her, ¡°If you still hate me for causing your miscarriage and pushing you off the building, you can curse me and hit me all you will, or demand anything ¡ª-I will ept everything you ask, but not a divorce.¡± Irene sniffled. ¡°I hate you, but¡­¡± But she could not control her own feelings, and fell for him. Biting her lip, she asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you care that I¡¯ve been with other men?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t,¡± Isaac replied, because he knew that she was squeaky clean and had given him her first time! Irene made up her mind then. ¡°But¡­ do you mind if I had a child with another man?¡± If he epted it, so be it. If he refused to, she would hold no qualms about leaving, so that neither of them would be hurt because they had to stay! On the other hand, Isaac did not catch her hint, and presumed that she was talking about their lost child. His heart sank at the thought, and his chest felt as if it burned. ¡°If your children were still here, I would love them as my own. Irene was left in disbelief. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°I wouldn¡¯t lie!¡± Isaac replied with determination. ¡°Alright, then I have something to tell you¡­.¡± Bang! The door suddenly swung open, and Stan appeared at the door, huffing. ¡°Bad news, Mr. Jefferson! Whitney Cox is headed for the docks, where a boat is waiting to take her overseas!¡± Stan¡¯s appearance interrupted Irene¡¯s confession, while Isaac promptly remembered how Whitney had swindled him. Glowering, he asked, ¡°Did you let her escape?!¡± ¡°No, our people are still following them, but they already boarded a boat. There¡¯s little hope of catching up¡­ || As Stan¡¯s voice trailed off, Isaac barked furiously, ¡°You¡¯re all useless! Move, we have to stop thern!¡± He then remembered Irene and turned to her. ¡°Stay home. There¡¯s something I must do.¡± ¡°Why is Whitney escaping?¡± Irene asked in curiosity. ¡°She made a mistake,¡± Isaac replied simply. Irene nodded. ¡°Okay. You should go.¡± So, Whitney was getting her just deserts after putting her through amniocentesis during her early pregnancy, exposing her to a heightened risk of miscarriage? Isaac turned, barking orders as he strode, ¡°Tell the people following them don¡¯t let them get away at any cost!¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied. ¡°Do we have any boats avable right now?¡± ¡°A yacht, sir.¡± ¡°Good. We¡¯ll be there right now,¡± Isaac said as he strode out of the mansion. As they drove to the harbor, there was no question that they were a littlete, but the men Stan sent to tail them had intercepted Whitney¡¯s boat. By the time Isaac arrived, a fight had broken out on the boat and confusion ensued, with some people being knocked overboard. Stan steered their yacht while his men docked the boat with a nk. Isaac walked over and stood on the deck, even as the sea¡¯s breeze blew violently against his jacket, causing it to p loudly. Be that as it may, he stood firm and unaffected. Chad narrowed his eyes when he saw Isaac. ¡°Whitney is my woman. Show me some respect ,and spare her.¡± Isaac snorted coldly. ¡°There¡¯s no respect for you here. Stan, find her.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied. When Isaac and Stan arrived, they brought more men, outnumbering Chad¡¯s men. Defeat was at hand, and Chad started to panic. ¡°Why do you insist on going against me?!¡± ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s doing that,¡± Isaac replied in disdain. That was when Whitney ran up to Chad, hiding behind him as she cried, ¡°No! I¡¯d rather die than go back to prison!¡± She was terrified of being recaptured. Forget losing her freedom in prison-she was constantly tortured and left wishing she was dead! ¡°You have to save me, Chad¡­¡± she murmured as she grasped tightly onto Chad¡¯s arm, afraid. that she would be captured as if she released him. But Chad¡¯s men were falling one by one¡­ and soon there were none. Stan glowered and threatened him, ¡°Give her up, Chad Ross-or do you want us to do it the hard way? My men here are all meatheads who don¡¯t hold back. Don¡¯t me us for not warning you if you get hurt.¡± Seeing that he had no choice, Chad told Whitney, ¡°I¡¯ll save you some other way.¡± Whitney panicked. ¡°Are you giving up on me?¡± ¡°No, but we have no choice right now.¡± Chad simply had no way out in the face of Isaac¡¯s overwhelming threat. No good man would bite the bullet for nothing. He must think of the big picture! Original from N?velDrama.Org. Meanwhile, Whitney despaired. Laughing coldly, she knew right then that Isaac would not allow Chad any chance to save her again if she were brought back to prison. And she would rather die than suffer again! Pushing Chad away, she dove headfirst into the sea! The Runaway Groom Chapter 132 The Runaway Groom Chapter 132 Chapter 132 Stan was utterly dumbstruck. Really? Was she going that far? Did she really have no will to live, throwing herself into the ocean? ¡°Find her-even if she¡¯s dead,¡± Isaac growled just then. He wanted a body even if she was really dead! Stan promptly left and ordered the men to put on their gear for a search effort. Meanwhile, Chad buried his head under his palms. He was still in love with Whitney-he would not have challenged Isaac¡¯s wrath to rescue her from prison otherwise. ¡°You¡¯re a murderer, Isaac Jefferson!¡± he bellowed in rage. Isaac¡¯s expression was icy, but he did not even nce at Chad. On the other hand, Stan snorted at Chad, knowing that he was messing with the wrong man. Who murdered her again? She jumped into the sea on her own! Hell, we¡¯re going down right now to save her!¡± -Chad¡¯s face went red from frustration. ¡°That¡¯s not true and you know it!¡± ¡°But it is the truth,¡± Stan said, shrugging at him with a look that basically said ¡®what can you -do-about- that?¡¯ Chad almost could die from sheer rage right then! After over an hour, the recovery team returned to the boat. ¡°Sorry, we couldn¡¯t find her. It¡¯s already difficult tounch a search in the middle of the sea, and in the darkness of the night.¡± Chad leaned against the scaffolding and looked out at the borderless sea. Land was not in sight, and only the moon¡¯s glow shed a crystalline reflection off the surface. Anyone falling into these waters in the middle of the night would either drown, freeze to death, or be eaten by sharks. ¡°Whitney¡­¡± Chad started to bawl in heartbreak. Stan was pursing his lips. Had this man never seen another woman? Was Whitney worth mourning over? However, Chad had done nothing wrong-he had simply fallen in love, and she was worth the world to her even if no one else agreed. He loved her, and that was all that mattered. It was mostly the same principle with Isaac, being in love with Irene¡­ Reasons? He loved her, and that was reason enough! ¡°What should we do, sir?¡± Stan asked Isaac softly then. There was no way they could keep searching. They were in the middle of the sea and it was nighttime, and the divers would be exposed to serious danger. Isaac mused to himself for a while and said, ¡°Stay on the boat. Watch them for the night.¡± That was in case Whitney survived by chance and returned to Chad¡¯s boat after they left. ¡°Understood, sir,¡± Stan replied. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. At the mansion, Irene was waiting for Isaac¡¯s return after he left-to tell him what she wanted to say before: that she had managed to save one of her twins, and delivered it safely. As she waited, she contacted Sheryl on video call and checked on her son, who was beaming happily. ¡°Did something good happen over there, Irene?¡± Lulu asked from the other end. ¡°I guess,¡± Irene replied-she was relieved to be able toe clean with Isaac. ¡°By the way, I might be making a trip to Cloud City soon, Irene,¡± Lulu said then. Before Irene could ask if it had anything to do with Zachary, Lulu told her, ¡°It¡¯s work.¡± Irene thought that she could be honest with Zachary too, but she sighed feebly since she should not interfere. Composing herself and smiling, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s meet up when you arrive. ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t think we can,¡± Lulu said. ¡°I¡¯ming with my team.¡± Irene thought nothing of it. ¡°I¡¯ll meet up with you even if you can¡¯t make time.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Lulu smiled. ¡°Boo-hoo¡± Tommy suddenly bawled. Irene asked worriedly, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Tommy?¡± ¡°Oh, he¡¯s either hungry or he¡¯s just pooped,¡± Sheryl said then. The Runaway Groom Chapter 133 The Runaway Groom Chapter 133 Chapter 133 Sheryl then asked casually, ¡°When will you be done over there ande over?¡± ¡°Soon,¡± Irene said after thinking about how things were, before asking hesitantly, ¡°Mom, have you considereding back instead?¡± ¡°Why?¡± Sheryl asked. Irene wanted her to meet Lionel Spencer, since he would not survive for long. ¡°Who knows, we could actually stay in Cloud City¡­¡± ¡°Sunny City is quite good,¡± Sheryl retorted just then. In fact, she was getting used to life over here-she had no problems, and just had to help babysit Tommy. This is from N?velDrama.Org. Irene did not try to push her, and made up her mind to talk to her about Lionel once they met. After asking more questions about Tommy, she eventually ended the call and headed downstairs-she was feeling a little hungry. She found a cake in the fridge and had a spoonful. The texture was soft and had a buttery sweetness, with a fruityter in between. That was when the doorbell rang. Mrs. Watson was not around, so she put the cake on the table and answered the door, when she was left stunned by the visitor-it was Samantha White. Scowling, she asked, ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Samantha cried the instant she saw her, ¡°Your dad is dying soon, Irene! He wants to see you onest time, but I don¡¯t have your number-I had toe looking for you!¡± Caught in shock and disbelief, Irene felt as if she had a bucket of ice water thrown over her. ¡°S- So soon?!¡± But Dr. Kelly said that he would have more time. ¡°Yes, he just suddenly ¡°Samantha started bawling. Irene quickly went looking for the chauffeur, but he was not around. ¡°I brought my car,¡± Samantha said. ¡°Your father can¡¯t wait. There¡¯s no time.¡± Irene was too worried to think straight, and hastily put on a jacket and shoes before running outside: ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Smaantha, however, was smiling smugly as she watched her, though she made herself look worried once again as she drove, even crying, ¡°The doctors were saying that he still had time, but he suddenly deteriorated¡­¡± Irene clenched her fingers to stay calm. ¡°Eyes on the road.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me,¡± Samantha replied as she drove out into the road. There were less cars since it waste, and as Irene stared outside the window, she soon realized that this was not the right way to the hospital. ¡°Didn¡¯t you miss a turn?¡± Samantha replied, ¡°I¡¯m just taking a shortcut.¡± ¡°I know the shortcuts from the mansion to the hospital, and this isn¡¯t one-in fact, we¡¯re going on a detour. What are you doing? Where are you taking me?¡± Samantha calmly replied, ¡°To see your father, of course.¡± ¡°You¡¯re lying!¡± Irene finally realized that something was out of ce. ¡°Now, tell me the truth-what¡¯s going on between you and your father?¡± Samantha¡¯s tearful face was suddenly reced by a murderous look. Irene narrowed her eyes, ¡°So, you were lying? My father is fine?¡± ¡°Hah! Of course he is-but I can¡¯t say the same for you soon. Once you¡¯re dead, Ricky will inherit everything!¡± Samantha replied icily. She had noticed that Lionel spoke to hiswyer behind his back, and she had a hunch that it was about his inheritance. Thewyer was loyal, so Samantha could not get anything out of him-but there was that moment when Irene was suddenly nice to Lionel, even thanking him. It was obvious that they were sharing a secret. That was why Samantha must be¡­ cautious. Irene could not believe it. ¡°You¡¯re going to kill me?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 134 The Runaway Groom Chapter 134 Chapter 134 ¡°Hah! Aren¡¯t you a smart one?¡± Samantha did not hide her intentions at all Despite knowing that Samantha wanted her dead, Irene stayed calm ¡°You¡¯re breaking the Law ¡°I won¡¯t leave evidence since I nned to do it,¡± Samanthaughed icily ¡°Hell, I don¡¯t mind getting shot or jailed¨CI¡¯ll make sure that Ricky ims every cent of the Spencer estate I lose nothing if he lives worry free for the rest of his life! He¡¯ll be the sole heir, whether Lionel likes it or not!¡± ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t Lionel want to give it to him?¡± Irene reasoned ¡°He¡¯s Lionel¡¯s son being paranoid.¡± ¡°He never cared about Ricky! If he did, he would¡¯ve divorced your mother long ago Naturally, Samantha held a serious grudge against Lionel you¡¯re What did he take her for? Why did he refuse to make her his legal wife¡¯ She just wanted to hold her head high was it really that wrong? And yet, he insisted on keeping her a mere mistress, subjecting both her and Ricky to all scorn and contempt. ¡°Lionel just wants to use my mother as leverage against me That¡¯s why he refuses to divorce her it¡¯s not as if he still loves her. ¡°I thought so too, until I slowly realized he¡¯s still in love with your mother He just wanted a son from me!¡± Samantha snapped, cutting Irene short, believing that she had seen through Lionel now. Irene, however, did not wonder if Lionel still loved Sheryl the most important thing to do right now was to get away. It was obvious that Samantha was prepared, since she was driving further into the quieter parts of the city. Right now, Irene muste up with a n to make Samantha stop the car. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to live and see your son get married and start a family? You¡¯re still young, This is from N?velDrama.Org. there¡¯s still much to live for¡­¡± Her reasoning merely fell to deaf ears, because Samantha has made up her mind! Naturally, Irene had no choice but to brace herself, and opened the car door on her side. As the safety indicator clicked repeatedly, Samantha eximed in shock, ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Irene ignored her and yelled, ¡°Help!¡± She wanted to draw attention, but there were not many cars around at night, and they were in an isted area. There was no one there to help! It was exactly why Samantha went looking for her at this hour. She had nned this! ring at Irene, she snapped, ¡°Shut the door right now!¡¯ Irene refused, intent on having the door crash into a scaffolding to force the car to a stop, only for Samantha to floor the gas pedal. ¡°I made up my mind before I came, Irene Spencer! I¡¯m not stopping for anything!¡± The door soon collided with a scaffolding and snapped off, almost sending the vehicle on its back- Samantha simply kept driving. Irene started panicking. Gritting her teeth, she calcted how many injuries she would sustain if she leapt off the car at this speed¡­ Samantha simply gave her a look. ¡°Jump, and you¡¯ll get seriously hurt with no hope of escape. Also, I have your father-I¡¯ll kill him, believe it!¡± Irene naturally did not buy her threat, and knew that the more she cared about Lionel, the more Samantha would keep threatening her with his life. In fact, Samantha might be less wary if she acted hostile against Lionel. ¡°I¡¯m not that close with him. Kill away! You know how much I hate him-hell, I¡¯d thank you if you killed him!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 135 The Runaway Groom Chapter 135 Chapter 135 This is from N?velDrama.Org. Samantha was left in disbelief. ¡°Cold, aren¡¯t you? That¡¯s your father, y¡¯know?¡± ¡°My father? He used me like a tool. I was never his daughter!¡± Irene retorted as she feigned spite. Samantha did not buy it, however. ¡°Aren¡¯t you quite close with him now?¡± ¡°Since when?¡± Irene shot back. ¡°Weren¡¯t you two being very polite at the hospital the other day? You even thanked him after you got him a specialist¡¯s help-you knew he¡¯s dying soon, so you were trying to earn his favor and get a share of his estate, weren¡¯t you?¡± Samantha eximed as if she had just gained an epiphany. Irene did not bring her phone because she left in a hurry, and had no choice just then. Her foot had just recovered, and she would really be cripple if she jumped! Right now, she had to wait and see where Samantha was taking her, and then try toe up with a n after that. Jumping out of the car was not a good n! Seeing that she was staying put, Samantha chuckled. ¡°Now, that¡¯s better.¡± Ireneughed coldly. Soon, Samantha stopped the car in the middle of nowhere, and two men stepped out of the thicket once she did. She had arranged for them to be there, even paying them since she knew that she could not handle Irene alone. Smiling and knowing that she had won, she said, ¡°Get out.¡± Irene suddenly leaned forward, pulling her seatbelt and looping it around Samantha¡¯s neck, threatening, ¡°I¡¯ll take you with me!¡± Samantha paled. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare.¡± ¡°You think I wouldn¡¯t? When you¡¯re trying to kill me?¡± Irene started to clench. Samantha was equally vicious. ¡°You think you¡¯re getting away if you kill me? A pretty face like you-what are your chances with those thugs?¡± The two men beside the car were leering at Irene. One of them was tanned and skinny, while the other was muscr, and Samantha had paid them to drown Irene in the sea. They did not expect their victim to be such a beauty, and naturally had other ideas now. Nheless, Irene pulled harder and Samantha began to suffocate. Her face was flushed, and the fear of death gripped her despite her insistence otherwise. ¡°Get her-off!¡± She breathed with much difficulty. It was only then that the two men got inside to stop Irene. Strangling took more time than slitting the neck, and that was how the men had time to drag Irene out of the car and save Samantha. Still, it took Samantha a while to catch her breath and talk again. There was a dark red mark that hurt to touch, and she was furious as she alighted. ¡± Irene Spencer!¡± She raised her hand, ready to p Irene. However, although Irene¡¯s hands were restrained by the men and kept immobile, she kicked at Samantha before she could reach her. Samantha was sent stumbling backwards and falling on her backside, fuming, ¡°What are you spacing out for? You have such a beautiful woman, but you don¡¯t even want to have a good time?¡± The men¡¯s eyes twinkled. ¡°Can we¡­?¡± ¡°Of course! Do whatever you want!¡± Samantha eximed viciously. Trading nces, the men dragged Irene further into the thicket. It was a coastal area, and one could hear the waves and smell the salt in the air. Irene knew that it was difficult to fight them for freedom, and she had to do this smart to stand a chance. Pretending to give in, she trained her sights on the tanned man since he looked skinny and weaker, offering her a better chance to escape. ¡°Now, boys, let¡¯s do this one by one-I¡¯m not getting away now that you have me anyway.¡± Smiling at the tanned man, she asked, ¡°How about you first?¡± The tanned man¡¯s ears pricked up. Did he just get lucky? Why else would this woman choose him? Why else would she let him go first? Studying Irene indecently since he had never seen a beauty like her, he turned to the other man. ¡°How about you let me go first?¡± The other man was reasonable. ¡°Fine. Make it quick.¡± The tanned man happily pulled Irene to a clearing! The Runaway Groom Chapter 136 The Runaway Groom Chapter 136 Chapter 136 Irene tamely followed the tanned, skinny man, who started to let down his guard since she was compliant. He undid his belt, while urging Irene to undress! Irene appeared to y along, but even as she did, she was looking around for anything she could use as a weapon. There were only rocks and weeds around, but she spotted a sharp rock that she could use. Stamping on the grass as if to make it even, she said, ¡°Just making sure it¡¯s not too rough to lie down on.¡± The tanned man was not wary at all, and even praised her for being such a tease. Irene shed a smile that did not reach her eyes. ¡°How about you take off your clothes andy them on the ground?¡± ¡°Fine.¡± He was getting undressed anyway, and was actually delighted that she would say that. Irene, however, picked up that sharp rock while he took off his shirt. Gripping it tightly and sneaking close to the man, she smashed it as hard as she could on his jugr, catching him unawares and sending blood spurting. The man howled in pain and clutched his neck. ¡°You bitch! You hurt me!¡± He tried to grab her by the hair, but she was prepared enough to dodge and run off! The muscr man ran toward them when he heard the noise, and so did Samantha, who ordered the man, ¡°Stop her! Don¡¯t let her get away!¡± Irene had thought of an escape route-she knew how to swim, and started heading toward the sea. However, the quicker she ran, the more her foot seemed to burn. She had yet to fully recover, but she gritted her teeth and kept running, because having a limp was better than being caught here. That was when she reached the edge of a cliff, which stood moderately high above the sea! Still, it was too dark, and she could not see if there were rocks beneath the surface under the moonlight. Meanwhile, Samantha and the two men caught up, with the tanned man¡¯s face contorted with savagery. ¡°I¡¯ll destroy her once I get my hands on her! She tricked me!¡± The muscr man growled, ¡°You¡¯ve done it now.¡± Samantha just found them stupid. ¡°Grab her already. She has no ce to run off to!¡± As they approached her, Irene knew that she could not win against three. Gritting her teeth and rejoicing that she was a good swimmer, she decided not to hesitate-she would not stand a chance once they reached her. She jumped. ¡°Oh, shit!¡± the tanned man eximed in shock. Smanatha promptly ran to the edge to look below. She was worried because she did not see Irene¡¯s corpse, and told the men to jump too. ¡°Go, find her!¡± ¡°We can¡¯t swim,¡± they replied. Samantha threatened, ¡°You don¡¯t want to be paid?¡± The two men traded nces. ¡°There¡¯s a path that reaches below. We¡¯ll look there.¡± ¡°Go,¡± Samantha urged. Original from N?velDrama.Org. However, Irene was nowhere to be seen as they walked up to the beach. It was dark and they did not know how to swim, and hence soaked themselves to pretend they did. The tanned man was clutching his neck, feeling dazed from blood loss. ¡°I need the hospital, or I¡¯m going to die.¡± The muscr man thought about it and said, ¡°Let¡¯s just tell her she¡¯s dead. We¡¯re only doing this for the money anyway.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± the tanned man replied. They were not staking their lives on this anyway. As they returned in their drenched clothes, they told Samantha that they found Irene¡¯s corpse in the sea. ¡°We made sure she¡¯s at the bottom. There won¡¯t be anything left of her once the sharks are done with her.¡± Samantha was not convinced. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Why would we lie? We can take you there if you want.¡± The pair appeared confident, and Samantha thought that they would not lie since they offered to take her there. Moreover, jumping from that high? The height would have killed Irene, if not drowning. ¡°Fine.¡± Convinced, Samantha paid the men and happily drove home, believing that her son was Lionel Spencer¡¯s sole heir now, and that the entire Spencer estate was now hers. The Runaway Groom Chapter 137 The Runaway Groom Chapter 137 Chapter 137 Although Samantha was in a good mood, she did not know that Irene survived. Irene was a good swimmer, and where shended was deep enough to break her fall. She was not familiar with the area and wanted to get ashore, but did not do so immediately since Samantha might still be around. The skies were brightening a little when a light suddenly shed on her, and someone called out, ¡°There¡¯s someone here!¡± Irene was startled. ¡®Is it Samantha?¡¯ She swam as fast as she could, but was quickly overtaken by a boat. ¡°Whitney? Is that you?¡± Chad called out, and frowned in disappointment to see that it was not when a light caught Irene¡¯s face. Stan and his men had left the boat, confident that Whitney was dead since they did not find her after an entire night. Chad was searching as well, but there was no sign of her, and there was not much chance of her surviving. He fell to despair. ¡°Are you swimming here?¡± he asked. He was puzzled since this was no ce to swim, and the beach was far. How did this woman get here? As Irene floated with just her head above the surface, she looked up at Chad on the boat. Had that man mistaken her for Whitney? Was he looking for Whitney? She then remembered Isaac telling her that Whitney was trying to flee the country on a boat, and Chad was now looking for her¡­ Did that mean she had gone missing? One of Chad¡¯s men whispered into his ear just then, ¡°That¡¯s Isaac Jefferson¡¯s woman.¡± Chad then remembered Whitney mentioning Isaac having a woman named Irene. Was it this woman? The thought that Isaac had pushed Whitney to her death made him turn his spite on Irene. He could certainly handle a woman even if he could not handle Isaac. Ashe ordered his men to bring Irene up the boat, she quickly tried to swim away. She was exhausted, however, and eventually gave up. The water was chilly and she had been in it too long as well. N?velDrama.Org holds this content. Moreover, Chad had no reason to hurt her since they had no quarrel. Since she was soaking in seawater, her clothes entuated her figure even though she was dressed inyers. She stood behind her chest, keeping herself away from Chad¡¯s gaze as she asked, ¡°Are you going ashore?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Chad replied. ¡°We¡¯re not fishermen-we don¡¯t live at sea¡­ So what¡¯s your rtionship with Isaac?¡± Irene stayed silent because she did not know why he had suddenly asked that. Chad snorted coldly. ¡°Keep quiet all you want. I know you¡¯re with him.¡± Irene quickly realized what was happening. ¡°Did things get heated between you two?¡± Why else would there be an undertone of hostility in his voice? ¡°He made Whitney jump into the sea, and she¡¯s probably dead now-we can¡¯t find her anyway. Heated would be an understatement after he killed my girl, don¡¯t you think?¡± Chad¡¯s lips then curled up into a grin. ¡°Karma¡¯s a bitch¡­ He killed my girl, but now you fall into my hands. Don¡¯t you think I should get an eye for an eye?¡± Irene was stunned. Out of the frying pan into the fire! Still, she tried to set herself apart, saying, ¡°If you have a bone to pick with him, then settle it with him. We¡¯re really not that close.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t bother lying. I know everything.¡± Chad replied. As the boat reached the docks, he told his men, ¡°Tie her up. Take her with us. Irene wondered how she could be that unlucky just then. Her fingers were clenched over the scaffolding. She was excused after such a long night, and trying to jump and swim away was impossible-they had a boat, and they would catch up in no time at all. She tried to persuade Chad with another approach right then. ¡°If revenge against Isaac is what you want, I can help you.¡± Before she could escape, she must dy the inevitable! The Runaway Groom Chapter 138 The Runaway Groom Chapter 138 Chapter 138 N?velDrama.Org (C) content. Naturally, Chad doubted her and sneered. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m an idiot? That you could trick me so easily?¡± Irene forced a smile and kept trying to cajole him. ¡°I¡¯m not lying-I¡¯m being honest here. I have a bone to pick with Isaac Jefferson as well.¡± ¡°What, you have a bone to pick with him too?¡± Chad remained doubtful. ¡°You were saying that you know about us, but do you know what¡¯s really going on between us? Irene patiently reasoned. She was quick on her feet-this way, she could find out about Chad¡¯s intentions, along with how much he actually knew about her and Isaac. Chad raised a brow in response. He certainly was not aware of the rtionship between Isaac and Irene aside from Whitney¡¯s brief mentioning. In fact, he would not have remembered her if his men never reminded him. ¡°What else could it be? You¡¯re his girl,¡± he replied. Isaac was not married, so she had to be his lover! Irene breathed a sigh of relief then-it turned out that Chad knew about them, but nothing specific. This meant that she stood a chance. ¡°Send people to ask around if you want. He abuses me everyday, and I was just able to walk after he broke my leg. I despise him-that¡¯s why I¡¯m telling you that I can help you if you want revenge.¡± Chad was hesitant then. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll ask around, but you¡¯re stilling with me.¡± Irene had more to say, but he cut her short. ¡°I¡¯m not letting you go just because of what you said. What if you¡¯re lying and give me the slip?¡± Chad was ugly but not stupid! Irene shuddered even as she leaned against the scaffolding. Her clothes were wet, and a gentle brush from a sea breeze left her with goosebumps all over. Folding her arms and rubbing them firmly, she said, ¡°I¡¯lle with you, but you have to agree to my condition.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Chad asked. ¡°I¡¯m staying in a hotel. You can have your men stand watch outside.¡± Right now, she needed dry clothes, but she was onboard a boat full of men. After that close shave with the two thugs before, she must be prepared! Moreover, there would be others at the hotel, and she could save herself if there were any surprises! Chad hesitated for a moment. ¡°Fine.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene replied politely. She was now his captive, and she had to bepliant. For Chad¡¯s part, he presumed that she would never try to run after seeing her looking meek and delicate. ¡°Untie her. Just keeping an eye on her is good enough,¡± he told his men. Naturally, he would not have thought so if he had known what happened before she ended up in the sea. As the boat reached the docks and everyone got off, Irene was escorted by men left and right, but they were not touching her. She did not stop for a moment even as she got into Chad¡¯s car as ordered, though she kept herself very close to the car door. ¡°Have I met you before?¡± Chad suddenly asked. Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± But if his memory served him well, they had met back at university when Chad was wooing Whitney. He probably would not remember, and he certainly could not even after he tried to recall. Still, he just found her appearance familiar, but could not remember where he had actually met her. Thinking nothing of it, he muttered, ¡°Maybe I was mistaken.¡± Right now, his priority was revenge! After sending Irene to the hotel, he had two men stand guard outside, before sending his people to find out if things were hostile between Irene and Isaac as she had imed. Once inside the hotel room, Irene used every lock on the door behind her to ensure that no one was getting in, before undressing and taking a warm shower, and left her clothes out to dry. ¡°Achoo!¡± She sneezed, catching a cold regardless. Sniffling, she waited until she started to sweat. Wrapping a towel around herself, she waited for her clothes to dry when she saw the phone beside the bed. She picked it up and called Zachary, but he turned out to be drunk although he quickly answered. He had been getting drunk every day recently! ¡°Zachary, please help me contact Isaac,¡± Irene said. ¡°Oh, Irene?¡± Zachary mumbled drunkenly. ¡°Just call him yourself¡­¡± Glug¡¯ The Runaway Groom Chapter 139 The Runaway Groom Chapter 139 Chapter 139 It sounded like Zachary was chugging a beer! ¡°Quit drinking, Zachary!¡± Irene whispered. ¡°Hah! Why not? She betrayed me.¡± He chuckled in disappointment, misery, and disbelief! ¡°Listen, Zachary, I only have your number. That¡¯s why I called you. Someone is holding me hostage in a hotel right now, tell¡ª¡± Someone knocked on her door before she could finish, and she quickly hung up. On the other end, Zachary was too drunk to think about what Irene said he was actually puzzled that she hung up on him. Meanwhile, Irene answered the door after putting on her clothes, and found Chad standing at the doorway. He actually doubled back, remembering that there were phones in the hotel room, and that Irene could call for outside help He strode inside, ncing at the phone as he asked, ¡°Did you contact Isaac Jefferson?¡± Irene could not remember Isaac¡¯s number, or she would have. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡± She smiled. Chad doubted her, and told his people to check with the front desk. Irene, however, was not worried because she did not call Isaac anyway, and Chad¡¯s goon soon returned. ¡°She did make a call, but it wasn¡¯t to Isaac Jefferson.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°See? I wasn¡¯t lying.¡± Believing her for the moment, Chad then said, ¡°Do me a favor, and I¡¯ll let you go.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Irene asked. Passing Irene a white bottle, he said, ¡°I have a rough idea now, and what you said is true- Isaac has been abusing you. Since he¡¯s our mutual enemy, shall we work together now? You can get close to him, so spike his food with this and it¡¯s a job done.¡± Irene took it, unable to tell what the bottle contained since there were nobels on it. ¡°Is this poison?¡± ¡°No, it just causes nerve damage and mental issues after prolonged consumption,¡± Chad replied. ¡°Dying would be letting him off easy-we¡¯ll make him a nutcase and theughing stock of Cloud City, so that he wishes he was dead!¡± Though Chad¡¯s n sounded ruthless, Irene did not hesitate to take the bottle and agree to it. ¡°You have a deal.¡± Still, she wasughing in her head of Chad¡¯s stupidity- would Isaac care about how others saw him if he became a nutcase? ¡°Good. Yourpliance spares me a lot of trouble,¡± Chad said with satisfaction, and looked around the room. ¡°Does this ce suit you?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene replied, pausing for a moment before asking, ¡°When are you releasing me?¡± ¡°Right now.¡± Chad smiled. ¡°However, I need assurance that you won¡¯t renege on our deal, so I need leverage on you.¡± Irene frowned. ¡°What leverage?¡± Chad studied her from head to toe then. ¡°Your modesty, of course-it applies to all women. Let me take photos of you nude, and I¡¯ll be less worried.¡± Irene glowered then, and clenched her fingers repeatedly before finally calming down. ¡°Now, now-I¡¯m not out of line here. I have to think for myself, too!¡± Chad said as if it made perfect sense. Irene lowered her gaze when an idea struck her. ¡°Sure, but only if you¡¯re alone with me in the room.¡± Chad was naturally pleased since she was easy on the eyes, and ordered his goons out of the room. However, the instant he locked the door, Irene picked up a ss cup and smashed it onto the floor. ¡°What the hell?¡± Chad eximed, wheeling on her. *Irene smiled. ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s an ident.¡± She dropped to a crouch to pick up the fragments and throw them into the trash can-save for one shard. ¡°Okay, now take it off,¡± Chad urged, eager to see if her figure matched the splendor of her beauty. Irene moved close to him with a grin. ¡°You want to see?¡± Chad did not hide it. ¡°Every man loves a beautiful woman. It¡¯s in our nature-¡± He was not even finished when Irene suddenly extended her hand, pressing something sharp against his neck. His eyes widened in shock. ¡°What are you doing?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 140 The Runaway Groom Chapter 140 Chapter 140 Irene knew for a fact that rich kids like Chad were very afraid of death Her visage was calm and her words direct. ¡°Let me go ¡± Chad refused ¡°I doubt you¡¯d kill me He was convinced that a girl like her would never go that far, unaware that she was a doctor that anyone brave enough to pick up a scalpel was no coward! Irene simply pressed the sharp ss shard until it broke his skin, and as Chad felt the sharp pain in his neck, and reached up for a touch His soul almost left him when he felt the warm, sticky sensation of his own blood¡¯ ¡°W-Wait a minute!¡± he stammered nervously ¡°You¡¯re trying to humiliate me I¡¯d really deserve it if I didn¡¯t fight back¡± Having performed surgeries, Irene¡¯s hands were steady she kept pressing the ss shard against Chad, making him feel the pain and kept making him bleed It would look serious on appearance, but it was hardly life threatening After all, a doctor knows the human body from top to bottom, and what could be potentially lethal or otherwise! Naturally, Chad cowed immediately, ¡°I was just worried you¡¯d renege on our deal¡¯ I just needed leverage-1 didn¡¯t want to humiliate you! No photos, okay?¡± Irene¡¯s response was more pressure. ¡°Let me go now!¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t we agree to destroy Isaac together?!¡± Chad cried, still convinced that she had a grudge against Isaac. ¡°You actually believed that?¡± Ireneughed coolly. ¡°You lied? But I thought he was mean to you¡­¡¯ ¡°He is, but I¡¯ll avenge myself by my own actions. I dislike partners it¡¯s that simple,¡± she said, and forced Chad to move to the doorway. ¡°Open the door.¡± Chad hesitated, but quickly gave in when Irene promptly made him feel that death wasing. Chad¡¯s men saw him being held hostage and promptly became alert, ring at her viciously. However, Chad was still bleeding from his neck, and certainly did not dare to make any false moves. ¡°Don¡¯te closer,¡± he told his men. ¡°Let her go.¡± N?velDrama.Org (C) content. ¡± They eventually got downstairs, where there were enough bystanders. Seeing her chance, she pushed Chad away and bolted-but was not really seeing where she was going, and ran headlong into someone¡¯s arms. She was just going to look up and apologize when she saw that it was Isaac. Her eyes widened. ¡°W-Were you looking for me?¡± Isaac¡¯s expression, however, was impassive-devoid of his earlier gentleness, with only cruelty showing. He was silent, and looked past her to Chad, who was clutching his neck. The man was still terrified since he was still bleeding from the neck, and worried that he was in mortal danger. ¡°Why are you just staring?¡± he yelled. ¡°Call an ambnce already!¡± Isaac had a general idea how he was injured just then. He lowered his gaze at Irene¡­ and turned around without a word. Irene was confused! What had gotten into him this time? Was he upset again? Biting her lip, she gave chase but said nothing either. She felt puzzled¨Cshe had clearly just escaped, and he was now flipping out at her before she could catch her breath? She was not in the mood to be sweet! As they reached his car, Isaac got in. Just as Irene reached for the door handle, he told Stan, ¡°Drive.¡± *Stan nced at Irene, but floored the gas pedal, leaving Irene standing there and breathing fumes! She frowned. What was his deal? Did he regret being nice to her already? Why the silent treatment? He could have just told her it was not as if she wanted to stay with him! Taking a taxi back to the mansion, Mrs. Watson promptly rushed to Irene¡¯s side when she saw her. ¡°Where have you been, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± She thought that Irene was running away again. ¡°Something came up,¡± Irene simply said, and headed upstairs. The Runaway Groom Chapter 141 The Runaway Groom Chapter 141 Chapter 141 Once Irene returned to her room, she picked up her phone and saw a few missed calls from Lulu. She called her back, and Lulu soon picked up. ¡°Irene?¡± She sounded very worried. ¡°I¡¯m here,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Are you alright? I was so worried when I couldn¡¯t reach you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine. Have you arrived at Cloud City? Where are you now? I¡¯lle to you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m at work right now,¡± Lulu replied. ¡°I¡¯m only free after six. Let¡¯s meet up somewhere.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said, and asked, ¡°Is my mom and Tommy alright?¡± ¡°Yeah. They¡¯re staying at my home-don¡¯t worry.¡± ¡°Good.¡± Irene missed her family-especially Tommy, who was separated from her soon after birth. She wanted to hold him so much. Suddenly, Mrs. Watson came upstairs and called out, ¡°I¡¯ve made you something to eat, Mrs. Jefferson. Pleasee downstairs to eat.¡± Lulu heard that, and said, ¡°Well, as long as you¡¯re fine. Let¡¯s talkter!¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied, hung up and followed Mrs. Watson downstairs, where Isaac was sitting by the dining table. She stopped in her tracks. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, you should eat,¡± Mrs. Watson told her when she saw that she paused. Irene quicklyposed herself and sat down at the dining table. Isaac never looked at her even when she arrived, and moved his fork unhurriedly. Irene could not help it and said, ¡°You can just tell me that you regret what you said. You don¡¯t have to give me the cold treatment I¡¯m not that clingy.¡± She knew a man like Isaac would never ept a woman who had been with someone else, even having their child. She was just being delusional, believing that they could have a proper rtionship! Still, Isaac¡¯s expression turned icy and he slowly looked up angrily at her. ¡°You¡¯ve really perfected the art of ying the victim, haven¡¯t you?¡± After all, she was the one who had gone missing when he returnedst night. Also, he found the card she left on his desk, ced over the note that read: [Isaac Jefferson, I want a divorce.] He almost lost his mind, thinking that Irene had run away again! He was sitting around the entire night without sleep, but eventually could not take it and started a search, finding out that she left with Samantha White, and tracked her all the way to the hotel! It was certainly no coincidence that he was there. Irene frowned in confusion. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Isaacughed despite himself-how could she be so pretentious?! ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s written on this card and note is in your handwriting, isn¡¯t it? Are you pretending you don¡¯t know now? Afraid to admit it?¡± Irene pped her own forehead. How did she forget about that?! Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. She had written that because she had been furious when she saw Isaac getting chummy with Kathy York! She would havepletely forgotten about it if he never mentioned it. Was this why he was so upset? ¡°Hold on-¡± ¡°Tell me, did you write this?¡± Isaac demanded, cutting her short! ¡°Yes,¡± she admitted. The instant she said that, however, Isaac¡¯s expression darkened, and he appeared colder than before! The Runaway Groom Chapter 142 The Runaway Groom Chapter 142 Chapter 142 Isaac was ring at Irene as if he would cut her into little pieces¨Cif looks could kill, she would be dead already! ¡°I was just -¡± Even as Irene tried to exin, Isaac sprang to his feet, clearly reluctant to listen to her, and strode out of the dining room. Irene pursed her lips but did not follow-he was furious, and he was not calm enough to listen to her exnations. She should give him time to calm down before talking to him. ¡°Achoo-¡± Irene suddenly sped her hand over her mouth as she sneezed! Seeing that, Mrs. Watson asked, ¡°Do you have a cold?¡± Irene nodded, and she quickly brought her cold medicine. ¡°Thanks,¡± Irene sniffled. Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°You¡¯re Mr. Jefferson¡¯s wife. It¡¯s what I should do.¡± Irene lowered her gaze at the mention of Isaac, but quickly took the medicine and washed it down with water. After having breakfast, Irene changed into fresh clothes and headed to the hospital. Ensuring that Samantha was not around, she visited Lionel, and told him that Samantha was coveting the Spencer estate. She also warned him to be wary, in case Samantha tried to harm him for the money-she was willing to kill Irene for it, after all! Lionel, however, frowned. ¡°You weren¡¯t like this before, Irene.¡± He was aware that Irene disliked Samantha-even hated her. It was understandable from Irene¡¯s standpoint, but hatred aside, she should not make false usations. In fact, it disappointed him that Irene would say something like that was Irene the one who actually wanted the family estate? Was that why she resorted to nder? This is from N?velDrama.Org. ¡°How was I before?¡± Irene asked in return. ¡°You always tried to give her a wide berth,¡± Lionel replied. Irene could tell right then that Lionel doubted her! Taking a deep breath, she said, ¡°Would you believe me if I told you that she tried to kill me?¡± Lionel did a double take it was too much to take. He was certainly aware that Samantha was a heinous gold digger, but he still doubted that she would resort to murder ¡°She wouldn¡¯t go that far!¡± Irene was not in a hurry to exin, and she already had an idea. ¡°Well, I can prove it to you.¡± ¡°H-How?¡± Lionel asked. ¡°She thinks I¡¯m dead. How would she react when she sees me?¡± Lionel thought about it. ¡°Spooked?¡± As Irene stayed silent, Lionel started to believe her a little now-she would not be this confident otherwise. ¡°I¡¯ll help you,¡± he said. ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Is there really such a huge wall between us?¡± Lionel asked, looking at her then. His cheeks were sunken and yellowed, while his eyes almost seemed dried and lifeless after he was tormented by sickness. But now, his eyes twinkled with a yearning for kinship-people inevitably yearned for warmth when they were vulnerable, and Lionel was no exception. However, Irene remained aloof and said nothing. *After all that had happened, she could not offer warmth even though he asked-because he had never loved her like a father before. Lionel sighed then, but did not try to push her. The rift between them had existed for far too long. It was impossible to desire more kinship ¡®from her. ¡°Samantha will visit around five with dinner,¡± he said. Irene nodded. Time flew by, and it was soon 5 PM. ¡°Lionel,¡± Samantha greeted him as she entered with a food jar. The Runaway Groom Chapter 143 The Runaway Groom Chapter 143 Chapter 143 Samantha was in a great mood since Irene was gone, and was convinced that the Spencer estate now was all her son¡¯s to take. Naturally, what belonged to her son was hers as well. ¡°As the doctor ordered, I made a nched meal of meat and vegetables. You should eat more, and you¡¯ll get better soon,¡± she told Lionel. When Lionel tried to push himself up, she quickly came to help him, even putting a pillow behind him for him to lean on. Then, as she poured him a bowl of broth, she said, ¡°By the way, I heard that Irene went missing.¡± Lionel¡¯s head jerked toward her right then, and the look in his eyes puzzled her. ¡°What¡¯s with that look?¡± She smiled. Lionel realized that he was overreacting too, and quickly tried to hide it so that she did not notice. ¡°The broth looks good. It must have taken a while to cook it, right?¡± ¡°Yeah! I spent hours on it-have as much as you like.¡± Samantha handed him the bowl, and *quickly changed the subject. ¡°Don¡¯t you think Irene would meet an ident, going missing like that?¡± As Lionel stared at Samantha, he did not need Irene to tell him that Samantha knew something he did not, given the way she was testing the waters. Moreover, Samantha had never liked Irene, but she was somehow eager to mention her today. Irene must have been telling the truth-Samantha had tried to harm her, or worse. ¡°She¡¯ll be fine. Why would she get into an ident?¡± Lionel said, appearing calm but he was already turning cold inwardly. ¡°She went missing for monthsst time too. Maybe she¡¯s just hiding again¨Cwhy panic?¡± N?velDrama.Org (C) content. ¡°I¡¯m just worried.¡± Samantha kept probing. ¡°You need to n ahead if something really happened to her.¡± ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Lionel asked, ring at her now. ¡°I mean, Ricky is your sole heir now, so you should focus on him. Don¡¯t think about your daughter¨C she¡¯s married and belongs to another family, and the Jeffersons would never want for money.. Lionel could no longer stand it right then, and cut her short. ¡°Did you do something to Irene, Samantha White?!¡± Samanthaughed. ¡°No way- That was when she heard a sound behind her, and turned to find Irene standing there. ¡°No!¡± she cried out in panic and terror from guilt. ¡°You should be dead! Don¡¯te near me!¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what you said when you tried to kill me!¡± Irene said as she strode toward Samantha Still panicking, Samantha cowered. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t kill you! You shouldn¡¯t be haunting me!¡± ¡°Your men, your n,¡± Irene said, baiting Samantha to confess as she had already started recording their voices with her cellphone. Once Samantha admitted it, it was proof enough that she tried to kill Irene-even if she failed! It was conspiracy to murder! Nheless, Samantha kept shaking her head. ¡°It wasn¡¯t me, it wasn¡¯t me!¡± Her near-manic state left Lionel glowering, and he barked, ¡°Do you have a death wish, Samantha White? You actually attempted murder?!¡± Samantha¡¯s head seemed to clear up from his scolding, and she looked between Lionel and Irene. ¡°Y- You¡¯re not dead?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll be if she really was!¡± Lionel bellowed. Finallying back to reality, Samantha promptly denied it. ¡°No! I¡¯d never kill anyone! It¡¯s all a misunderstanding!¡± ¡°A misunderstanding?¡± Ireneughed. ¡°Your goons tried to rape me and kill me, but I managed to escape. Did you think I¡¯d let it go after all that?¡± Samantha yed dumb. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± ¡°Your thugs tried to rape her?¡± Lionel asked, his voice turning quiet-he was less agitated, but furious nheless. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to her! I¡¯d never do that,¡± Samantha said fawningly. ¡°Don¡¯t you know what your own daughter is like?¡± ¡°I do that¡¯s why I trust her,¡± Lionel replied. Samantha tried to defend herself further, but Lionel cut her short. ¡°I know you want Ricky to inherit the family estate, and I am death¡¯s door. It is understandable that you would desire. that to happen, but do you think I¡¯d forgive you for trying to murder Irene, my daughter?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not ¡°If you want Ricky to inherit the family fortune, surrender yourself at the precinct. Refuse, and Ricky won¡¯t get a cent.¡± It was not as if Lionel did not love his son, just as he was not cold enough to cut him out of his will He had to do this to force Samantha to give in, because she was the only reason Irene would refuse to acknowledge Ricky as a sibling Irene was older and had discipline, whereas Ricky had been spoiled too much by Samantha, and only ever caused trouble! To entrust Ricky to Irene¡¯s care, he must punish Samantha! The Runaway Groom Chapter 144 The Runaway Groom Chapter 144 Chapter 144 Lionel was convinced that after he sided with Irene on this one, she would not refuse him. should he ask her to look after Ricky in the future. He had certainly thought of everything, and had already left a will dictating the distribution of his estates. Everything Samantha did was in vain! For her part, Samantha knew that Lionel never loved her. However, she never expected him to side with Irene, even going so far as to force her to surrender herself to the police by using his fortune as leverage! ¡°I¡¯ve been with you for over twenty years Don¡¯t you trust me at all? I said I didn¡¯t ¡°Just stop already! Are you going to surrender yourself or not?!¡± Lionel promptly cut her short, because he was not in the mood for her nonsense Samantha was left trembling even as she stood. While she did not love Lionel that much, they had been partners and he genuinely cared for her! How could he be so heartless? ¡°¡±I¡¯m the mother of your son!¡± she snapped. Lionel remained calm despite her outburst and mania. ¡°I never denied that.¡± ¡°Then why are you pushing me so far?¡± Samantha cried, unable to believe that Lionel would go so far for Irene. But it was now reality. ¡°I knew it¡­ You still love your ex-wife and your daughter! Ricky and I were just spares¡­ Fine! Ricky and I will leave!¡± She stormed off, convinced that Lionel would ask her and Ricky to stay since they were together for so long¡­ But Lionel did not, leaving her utterly disenchanted! They had lived together for years, and were more than spouses even if they were not legitimate. But Lionel insisted on being this cold toward her! Bloodlust overflowed within Samantha¡¯s heart just then, and before she left, she red at Lionel pointedly! ¡°Dad¡­¡± Irene began. She was surprised by Lionel¡¯s coldness towards Samantha too! ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll settle this for your sake!¡± Lionel insisted. Seeing that he was determined, Irene had nothing to say, and turned to leave. ¡°I see, I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡± Lionel stopped her. ¡°Do you think¡­ Your mother will visit me?¡± Irene did not look back. ¡°I told her about your condition, but she refused.¡± With that, she left. Once outside the hospital, Irene whipped out her phone to call Lulu-she happened to be free, and they arranged to meet at a teahouse. But by sheer coincidence, Irene ran into Zachary just outside the teahouse. He seemed to have withered considerably after getting constantly drunk for a while now, and a lot less bright or cheerful. ¡°Are you going in too, Irene?¡± he asked. Remembering that she was going to meet Lulu, Irene felt a little guilty. ¡°I¡­ guess?¡± ¡°What a coincidence. You can join me,¡± Zachary said, but he appeared tired and unenthusiastic. It hurt Irene to see him like this, and she really wanted to tell him that Lulu did not actually get married or loved someone else. However, it was not up to her to tell him. ¡°You came alone?¡± Irene asked, actually curious since Zachary never liked tea and had no reason to be here. She and Lulu had agreed to meet here since this was a quiet ce. This is from N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I have a blind date,¡± Zachary said as he dragged her inside. ¡°Can you do me a solid? I don¡¯t know how to turn her down otherwise.¡± Trene pushed him away. ¡°I won¡¯t be your shield.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Zachary actually thought that nothing could be easier his mother might have arranged this, but once his blind date saw him with another woman, the whole thing would quickly go sour. And he did not have to bother anymore! ¡°I have something to attend to.¡± Irene began, whipping out her phone to call Lulu and change the venue Before she could do it, however, Lulu arrived and saw Irene and somehow missed Zachary as she called out, ¡°Irene..¡± Irene turned around stiffly-she was toote! Lulu was already smiling and walking toward them, while Zachary¡¯s whole body had stiffened, and he could not move after he heard her voice ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You don¡¯t look well,¡± Lulu asked. trene nced sideways ¡°I caught a cold¡± ¡°Did you take your meds?¡± Lulu pressed in concern. Irene simply stayed silent The Runaway Groom Chapter 145 The Runaway Groom Chapter 145 Chapter 145 N?velDrama.Org holds this content. Lulu noticed the strange look on Irene¡¯s face just then. ¡°What¡¯s with you- ¡°Lulu.¡¯ ¡± Zachary suddenly stood up, leaving Lulu stunned! Just then, she felt surprise and pang of delight-delight to see him. Still, she quickly came to her senses and maintained an indifferent look as she asked coolly, ¡± Why are you here?¡± Zachary simply stared at her fixedly-she was questioning his presence, without greeting or asking after his health. Irene quickly said, ¡°We met outside. I was going to call you, but you came already¡­¡± Lulu saw that she was holding her phone and hence telling the truth-she did not mean to set up this meeting between them. ¡°Let¡¯s go elsewhere,¡± Lulu said. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied, while Zachary pursed his lips beside her. ¡®Just as they were ready to leave, he strode forward in an instant and grabbed Lulu¡¯s wrist, dragging her further into the tearoom, telling Irene as they moved, ¡°I need to talk to her. Don¡¯t interfere.¡± ¡°Let me go! There¡¯s nothing to talk about, I¡¯m married Zachary suddenly wrapped his arms around her and kissed her, stopping her mid-sentence. Irene stood nearby and watched. Knowing that a proper talk would do them some good, she quietly turned and left. She was going to get a taxi and return to the mansion, but changed her mind-she should go look for Isaac and clear their misunderstanding anyway. He must have calmed down by now, and would readily listen. Directing the taxi driver to take her to Light Group¡¯s offices, she only found Stan there, who told her, ¡°Mr. Jefferson is not around-he returned to Jefferson Manor.¡± ¡°Is there a reason?¡± Irene asked. ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Stan replied. ¡°Moneypenny himself came looking for him, so I¡¯m sure that Mr. Henry Jefferson asked.¡± Irene nodded in understanding, and returned to the mansion since Isaac was not around. Isaac appeared a little impatient as he yed chess with his grandfather. He was summoned here, but Henry was not saying a thing. ¡°Can you tell me what I¡¯m here for, Grandfather?¡± he suddenly said, interrupting the old man who was contemting his next move Seemingly remembering that he was there just then, Henryughed cheerfully. ¡°Oh, my memory is really failing me these days¡­ Getting so engrossed with chess after getting you toe!¡± He told Moneypenny to pour them two cups of tea, took a sip, and slowly said, ¡°Actually, it¡¯s nothing much ¨CI have a friending by today, and it¡¯s impolite since I would be alone receiving them. That¡¯s why I asked you to help me show them some hospitality.¡± Isaac frowned. ¡°Your son is better suited for that.¡± He was obviously displeased. At the same time, Henry¡¯s face paled. He had two sons the eldest, Isaac¡¯s father, had long since passed away. Isaac was clearly referring to his second son,n Jefferson¡­ And he knew very well what his own son had done! That was why he had no authority even if he was Isaac¡¯s elder, because he defended his son Breathing a deep sigh, he remembered the two reasons he handed the entirety of the Jefferson estate to Isaac. For one, Isaac had the ability to bring them to new heights. ¡°And the other was to make amends. ¡°Your uncle is just too soft-he¡¯s not meant for great things,¡± Henry said, pushing all the responsibility to lan¡¯s wife, Quincy Moore. After all, when the dayes and he departs, Isaac would have no qualms to destroy Ian. He was therefore doing his best to talk Isaac into training his crosshairs on Quincy, and be lenient onn since he was his uncle. Moneypenny returned to the room then and announced, ¡°Sir, they¡¯re here.¡± ¡°Good. Bring them here!¡± Henry eximed. Moneypenny left once more, and returned with a man who appeared around the same age as Henry, but appeared more spirited than himself! ¡°Long time no see, old friend.¡± ¡°We never had much chance to meet after you moved out of the country,¡± Henry said warmly. Isaac remained in his seat, but when he finally looked up and saw the woman with the visitor, he could not help furrowing his brow! The Runaway Groom Chapter 146 The Runaway Groom Chapter 146 Chapter 146 Kathy York was obviously surprised to see Isaac there as well. Still, she did not speak with him as the elders were talking, and stayed quietly beside her own grandfather. However, even if Isaac did not speak, his mere presence certainly caught attention. Cedric York noticed him immediately, and smiled. ¡°Is this the grandson you¡¯re so proud of?¡± Henry did not hide his pride at all and chuckled heartily as he said, ¡°Of course. He certainly outshone my son and myself in our prime!¡± Then, turning toward Kathy, he said, ¡°And this is your sole granddaughter, I presume?¡± Cedric sighed. ¡°Indeed. We only have each other, now that her father has passed away due to illness and her mother remarried.¡± Henry sighed as well-he had lost his son too, and knew the pain of a parent who had to bury his child! ¡°Isaac, would you mind showing Kathy around the manor while we old friends catch up?¡± Isaac could tell immediately what his grandfather was up to. Henry had told him to divorce Irenest time he was here, and was now trying to have him mingle with another woman. What else could it be other than attempting to hook them up? Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. He was certainly upset. Although he would not throw a fit because Henry was still his grandfather, he was not about to y along. He suddenly suspected that Henry had arranged for Kathy to show up at hispany in the first ce. With that, he left the room with no intention of bringing Kathy along. Henry was about to offer some assurance, but Kathy quickly said, ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± As such, Henry waited until Isaac had left and said, ¡°He¡¯s actually not as cold as he looks. Please be patient with him.¡± ¡°I will.¡± Kathy smiled. She was good-looking and had a sweet smile. Henry was naturally satisfied with her, especially since she was the only granddaughter of a friend and had a clean background. ¡°Well, it¡¯s now up to you to get them together,¡± Cedric said. ¡°Yes, but this will take time. I¡¯ve told you about the situation, and patience is needed here.¡± In truth, Henry was not confident about their n at all, but was willing to try. After the disappointment that was Irene Spencer, he was forced to find another woman he can count on! Still, Cedric clearly admired Isaac. ¡°Of course. Your grandson is a fine man, and Kathy likes him. Even if I can¡¯t wait, I¡¯d have to be patient for Kathy¡¯s sake.¡± Henry arranged this after all, and they should likewise be confident. Smiling at Kathy, he said, ¡°It takes time for feelings to develop. Just try to reach out with Isaac more. He should be outside, so go hang out with him.¡± Kathy lowered her gaze with a shy smile. ¡°Okay.¡± Naturally, everything that just happened was staged for Isaac¡¯s benefit. Once Isaac strode out of the manor, he headed to the back garden and called Stan. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson?¡± ¡°Did you actually do a background check on the woman you hired yesterday?¡± Isaac asked. If his hunch was right, Henry had arranged for Kathy to show up at Light Group in the first ce! ¡°I did. She graduated from a famous university, but has no work experience¡­¡± ¡°What about her family?¡± Isaac coolly cut him short. ¡°Well, she told me that she was living abroad and only returned recently, but not much else¡­ Did something happen? Is she stalking you? But I¡¯ve already sent her away¡­¡± *Isaac was frowning and had a hand over his forehead. ¡°You¡¯re an idiot!¡± However, his outburst was meant for himself as well! How could he listen to Stan and get a woman to make Irene jealous? Now he had brought trouble down on his own head! On the other end, Stan was utterly puzzled by Isaac¡¯s scolding. ¡°What did I do?¡± Isaac promptly hung up, since he was in no mood to exin. The Runaway Groom Chapter 147 The Runaway Groom Chapter 147 Chapter 147 On the other end, Stan was utterly mystified. Even if he had made a mistake and deserved a scolding, Isaac should at least make things clear. After all, a man should at least have his crimes read out to him before his execution! Naturally, no one could hear his musings, let alone Isaac! ¡°Hey, how did you get in here? Come out already, Ms. York!¡± On the way back to the mansion, Isaac overheard Moneypenny and walked over to find Kathy standing in his room, holding the box containing the photo of his parents. His gaze turned dark and strode up to her, his voice ice cold. ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Kathy was calm andposed. ¡°I was just curious, so I took a look.¡± ¡°Put it down already, Ms. York,¡± Moneypenny told her. ¡°That¡¯s very precious to Master Isaac ¡°But it¡¯s mine,¡± Kathy said confidently-even though it was the first time she had seen the .silver crucifix. After all, Henry had taught her to say that, adding that the owner of the silver crucifix was very important to Isaac, and that he would be nice to whoever it was. ¡°What?¡± Isaac narrowed his eyes. ¡°You¡¯re saying that it¡¯s yours?¡± ¡°Of course. It¡¯s a keepsake from my father, but I lost it so long ago. Ask my grandfather if you don¡¯t believe me.¡± Kathy reared her head and showed no signs of guilt at all, and anyone who saw her would be somewhat convinced. ¡°If it¡¯s yours, how did you lose it?¡± Isaac asked, staring fixedly at her. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°I don¡¯t remember,¡± Kathy replied. ¡°I must have been a child at the time.¡± She avoided mentioning anything specific since it had been a while anyway. If she did, she would appear a little eager, and someone as sharp as Isaac would just get suspicious. By being ambiguous and vague, Isaac would just get curious enough, and eventually be convinced that it was hers, and that she was the one who saved him. ¡°Perhaps the crucifix you lost simply looks like this one?¡± Moneypenny suggested, affording Kathy a chance to strengthen her im. ¡°No, I remember that this is the one, down to the ne. Why wouldn¡¯t I remember a gift from my father?¡± Then, putting up a miserable look, she said, ¡°This is very important to me. May I have it back? Isaac became silent, but did not give in right away. He walked up and took the chest from Kathy, opening it to check its contents. There was a look of tenderness in his eyes when he remembered those clear, crystalline eyes he saw all those years ago. Even after so long, he remembered that face and those eyes when he regained consciousness after almost drowning. ¡°If it really is yours, I¡¯ll return it to you.¡± With that, Isaac shut the chest and returned it where it was. He was going to leave, but it seemed that he must stay now-at the very least, he must ensure that Kathy had been here at Jefferson Manor when he was rescued! Kathy tamely pouted. ¡°Fine.¡± Moneypenny then smiled. ¡°Shall we head to the dining hall? Dinner is ready.¡± Isaac told him, ¡°Lock my room from now on.¡± With that, he turned and strode off. ¡°Of course,¡± Moneypenny said, and traded nces with Kathy. Even if Isaac was angry, they did what they came to do. Both Cedric and Henry were already waiting at the dining hall. Seeing his granddaughter arrive, Cedric asked, ¡°So, how was your stroll? Do you remember this ce?¡± ¡°I do,¡± Kathy replied as she walked up to him. ¡°You brought me here for a funeral, and I also remember saving a boy from drowning.¡± Isaac had sat down quietly, but looked up at her when she said that! The Runaway Groom Chapter 148 The Runaway Groom Chapter 148 Chapter 148 Kathy naturally noticed the look from Isaac, and her smile became even brighter With that, he got up and left, though he got a call from his grandfather on the way back. ¡°Isaac, I heard that yourpany hired Kathy, but she was let go because she was not up to her task? Can¡¯t you arrange for something easier for her?¡± ¡°You arranged for her to show up, didn¡¯t you?¡± Isaac asked in return. Even if everyone at the manor was convinced their act was good, Isaac did not even need to guess what was happening-the signs were all there, not to mention that there were one too many coincidences. Regardless, Henry tried to keep up the act anyway. ¡°What are you talking about? I don¡¯t understand.¡± N?velDrama.Org holds this content. ¡°Do I look like an idiot, Grandfather?¡± Isaac growled, his tone turning cool. ¡°You were telling me to divorce Irene Spencer thest time we met, and now that woman shows up at the manor? You¡¯re just trying to get us together, aren¡¯t you?¡± Henry was convinced that his n was foolproof, but Isaac saw through it anyway. . It really gets troublesome when people are too smart for their own good¡­ ¡°Well¡­¡± Henry began, but he could not offer an exnation. What else could he say other than ¡®I was doing this for your own good?¡¯ Naturally, his voice just trailed off into a sigh. ¡°I¡¯ll have Stan arrange for a job for her, but don¡¯t ever do that again,¡± Isaac said then. His patience was limited, especially since Henry was meddling in his personal life. ¡°Fine, I won¡¯t,¡± Henry promised. ¡°I did want you to get along with Kathy, but I¡¯m being honest when I asked you to get her a job. You see, she was living abroad with her grandfather for a while, and she led a lonely life like you, since she lost her parents early¡­¡± Henry then realized that he had spoken too much, and quickly stopped there. ¡°Ah, I¡¯ve really gotten old.¡± Isaac calmly said, ¡°I¡¯m hanging up if there¡¯s nothing else.¡± But when he did so, he was not calm at all! Driving back to his mansion, he threw the car keys to Jimmy the chauffeur and strode inside. Seeing no one else around the living room, he asked Mrs. Watson, ¡°Is she out?¡± ¡°She¡¯s in her room,¡± Mrs. Watson replied. ¡°Okay,¡± Isaac replied softly and headed upstairs. He paused for a moment outside Irene¡¯s room, but just as he was about to knock, he paused and refrained from doing so, striding to his own room instead. In her room, Irene was holding up a book, but could not focus enough to read it. She was feeling especially irritated, but had no idea why. She eventually gave up, put away the book, and headed downstairs. Mrs. Watson rarely saw her restless, and it was obvious that she was not in a good mood. ¡°Is there a problem, Mrs. Jefferson? You seem distracted, and you don¡¯t seem to have an appetite either.¡± Irene scratched her head. ¡°Do I?¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°Perhaps the food isn¡¯t as good without Mr. Jefferson around?¡± Irene blushed, and denied it fervently! ¡°No way! Why would I not have an appetite when he¡¯s not around?¡± She thought that Mrs. Watson was being outrageous! Nheless, Mrs. Watson smiled and waved her off. ¡°Then pretend I never said that, though you know the truth yourself.¡± Irene did a double take. The Runaway Groom Chapter 149 The Runaway Groom Chapter 149 Chapter 149 Was Isaac the reason she was restless today? Did that mean he affected her emotions now? No! That was impossible! She did not want to admit it¡­ But it was a harsh reality. She was getting reckless because of Isad€ She shook her head to try to get him out of her head. How could she have feelings for him, after he hurt her and indirectly caused her to lose one of her twins? However, the more she tried to stop thinking about him, the more she did in fact, his image was now imprinted in her mind, and memories they shared reyed like a movie ¡°By the way, Mr. Jefferson is upstairs. Didn¡¯t he talk to you?¡± Mrs Watson asked just then Irene paused and wheeled on Mrs Watson ¡°He¡¯s back?¡± Mrs. Watson nodded, and Irene became even more distracted then She headed upstairs, but was caught in a dilemma on whether she should see him Impulse eventually trumped rationality, and she headed toward Isaac¡¯s room. The door was not shut, and there was a narrow slit. As she gently pushed it, she felt a little blinded by the brightness within, and she narrowed her eyes until she got used to it, and saw Isaac standing inside. He was looking at something¡­ Irene pushed the door further and then saw that he was looking at a painting-the same painting depicting her during her pregnancy, which he bought from Harvey Gooding at the auction! She strode inside and asked softly, ¡°Why would you spend so much to buy that painting?¡± Isaac sensed a presence the instant she pushed the door, but did not turn to look at her. He kept his eyes fixed on the painting, thinking to himself that she would only stay still and stay with him when she was asleep¡­ or memorialized, such as in that painting. ¡°Because it¡¯s you,¡± he said. Irene felt her breath leave her lungs, and her heart began to pound. N?velDrama.Org holds this content. Those words were lovelier than anything else, and she admitted to herself then that she had fallen for him. Without knowing it, she walked over to him and firmly wrapped her arms around his slim waist-perhaps because he looked so lonely from behind, or maybe she just had an uncontroble burst of emotion. Either way, she did it, and even she herself could not believe it. When she finally came to her senses and tried to pull away, Isaac caught her wrists and stopped her, saying quietly, ¡°I love you like this.¡± Irene lowered her gaze as her cheeks turned red, struggling against his hold as she asked shyly, ¡°You like me to take the initiative?¡± Isaac turned toward her then. ¡°Can¡¯t you be a little more obedient?¡± Irene bit her lip. ¡°Why? I¡¯m not a child.¡± Isaac frowned-she could really upset him in a split second. ¡°Irene.¡± ¡°What?¡± She looked up, and found Isaac leaning forward. She held her breath, and closed her eyes as she felt his warm, tender lips against hers. He gathered her in his arms at the same time-his kiss was possessive, but somehow captivating as well. Irene thought that the reason she had fallen for him was because he really had what it took to steal a woman¡¯s heart. ¡°Please don¡¯t run away again, alright?¡± She seemed to hear his voice despite her daze, and there was a plea in his quiet voice. He had always been high and mighty, but his words now were humble. Irene would be lying if she said she was unaffected. ¡°I wasn¡¯t trying to run. Samantha White tried to hurt me because she wants the Spencer estate The Runaway Groom Chapter 150 The Runaway Groom Chapter 150 Chapter 150 As Irene quietly exined everything, Isaac realized that while he had a general idea of what happened, he did not have the details. Now that he knew Samantha had picked that quiet ce to attempt murder, he stiffened and asked, ¡°Were you hurt?¡± Irene shook her head. Isaac was relieved, and remembered the injuries she inflicted on Harvey as well. She knew her way around a scalpel¨Cshe was not about to get hurt that easily. Even so, she was a woman¨Cshe had limits to her strength no matter how smart she was. ¡°Be more careful next time,¡± he told her. ¡°Contact me at once when you get in trouble next time.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said, her bright, crystalline gaze flickering just then. ¡°Isaac, I¡­¡± She wanted to tell her that she had a child just then, but swallowed her words just as it reached the tip of her tongue. ¡°What is it?¡± Isaac asked. Irene hung her head, wondering how she should piece the sentence. ¡°I had something to say yesterday, didn¡¯t I?¡± ¡°Yeah?¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Bzzt- Her cell phone suddenly started vibrating in her pocket. Isaac could see her hesitation. ¡°Just say what you need to say. You don¡¯t have to hesitate.¡± Mustering her courage, she said, ¡°I had a child!¡± Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Isaac pursed his lips¨Cshe had told him that before. For Irene¡¯s part, she knew from his gaze that he thought she was referring to her other twin which did not survive delivery¡­ which was a lie. ¡°No, I mean¡­¡± ¡°I don¡¯t mind,¡± Isaac insisted. As her phone started to vibrate again, Irene became worried that it was Sheryl, and she could not afford to wait if something happened to Tommy. ¡°Never mind,¡± she said, and turned to leave when Isaac caught her wrist! His gaze was almost searing. ¡°Where are you going? Just stay here for the night.¡± ¡°I have something to do,¡± Irene said quietly. I ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°I have to contact my mom. My father is terminally ill, and he wants to see her. I should at least tell her about it.¡± It was a half¨Ctruth, but Isaac could not meddle anyway since it was serious business. ¡°Okay,¡± he said and let her go. Irene strode out of his room, returning to her own and sitting on her bed to scroll through her call logs. It turned out to be a missed call from Lulu instead. Hesitating for a moment, she then called her back, and Lulu quickly picked up. ¡°Irene¡­¡± ¡°Yeah. How are things going over there?¡± Irene asked, concerned about how things were going with Lulu and Zachary. Lulu did not answer, but Irene soon noticed sniffles from the other end. ¡°Were you¡­ crying?¡± she asked. Lulu did not respond, and Irene knew right then that she was in a bad state! ¡°What happened?¡± she asked urgently, but it seemed that Lulu was emotionally torn and could not compose herself enough to talk. ¡°Where are you right now?¡± Irene asked then. It took a while for Lulu to eventually answer, ¡°I¡¯m at Zachary¡¯s ce. Could youe give me a ride?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Irene replied. ¡°But I don¡¯t know where he lives¨CI¡¯ve never been there. Why don¡¯t you send me your location?¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Lulu replied. The Runaway Groom Chapter 151 The Runaway Groom Chapter 151 Chapter 151 Irene stepped outside her room the instant she hung up, where she found Isaac leaving his room as well. Their eyes met, and Isaac spoke first. ¡°Are you going out?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°A good friend of mine is in trouble. She asked me to help.¡± Seeing that he was heading out as well, she asked, ¡°You too?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± Isaac strode off, asking, ¡°Where are you going?¡± Irene told him the address after receiving it from Lulu. Isaac turned around to look at her then. ¡°We¡¯re going to the same ce.¡± ¡°Eh?¡± Irene gasped in surprise, though she soon remembered that Zachary and Isaac were close. ¡°Did Zachary call you?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡± Irene nodded, and they left in Isaac¡¯s car. Although Irene was riding shotgun, they were both silent. They wanted to talk, but did not know what to say. Eventually, Irene said, ¡°The friend I mentioned is Lulu Adams¨Cshe used to be Zachary¡¯s girlfriend.¡± Isaac did not actually know much about Zachary¡¯s personal life. From what Irene said, however, it became clear that the man had been depressed recently because of rtionship issues. ¡°So, are they having a fight?¡± he asked. Irene did not know how to put it into words. ¡°Lulu wants to break up with Zachary, but he is refusing to let her go.¡± Isaac remained aloof and did not ask any further questions¨Che never did poke his nose into others¡® affairs. Soon, they arrived, and Irene alighted before Isaac did. Zachary answered the door, and he did not appear surprised to see them show up together. In fact, he had been right next to Lulu when she called Irene. Standing aside, he said, ¡°Come in.¡± Irene hurried over to Lulu, who was leaning against the couch and had her face buried in her palms. Dropping to a crouch in front of her, Irene patted her on the back. ¡°Lulu.¡± Lulu looked up, and her eyes were red and swollen. Her voice was also very hoarse¨Cshe had clearly been crying for a while. ¡°Get me out of here.¡± Irene helped her up to her feet. ¡°Okay.¡± It seemed that Lulu was exhausted from crying, and Irene had to help her walk. ¡°Head back to the mansion,¡± Isaac said as he gave Irene his car key. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said as she took it. Isaac gave her a look but said nothing. Once they returned, Irene helped Lulu to the couch and poured her a ss of warm water for her throat. As Lulu had a couple sips, Mrs. Watson came and asked, ¡°Is she your friend, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°Will she be sleeping here tonight? Mr. Jefferson¡­¡® ¡°He knows,¡± Irene said. She understood why Mrs. Watson seemed uneasy¨Cthis was Isaac¡¯s home and he never usually allowed strangers, so Mrs. Watson was worried that they would fight again. Naturally, Mrs. Watson was relieved to hear that Isaac knew, and said warmly, ¡°Very well. I shall prepare a guest room for your friend so that she can get some proper rest.¡± ¡°Sorry for the trouble, Mrs. Watson,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s no trouble,¡± Mrs. Watson said, and left. Meanwhile, Lulu was starting to calm down. ¡°Are you alright?¡± Irene asked. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°No,¡± she replied. ¡°What happened?¡± Lulu did not hold back anything, since Irene was aware of what was going on between her and Zachary. ¡°Did you know that Zachary had a blind date at that teahouse?¡± Irene nodded as she watched Lulu. ¡°I did. Did it go south because of you?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 152 The Runaway Groom Chapter 152 Chapter 152 ¡°Yeah,¡± Lulu said. ¡°Zachary told his blind date that I¡¯m his girlfriend. The woman felt like she had been swindled, and called Zachary¡¯s mother right then and there. It was such a mess¡­¡® Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Irene could actually imagine the scene just then! ¡°And what happened after that? Why were you at Zachary¡¯s ce? Did you talk things out?¡± Irene asked. Lulu was quiet for a while before finally saying, ¡°He knows.¡± Irene actually thought it was for the best. ¡°You two are still in love anyway. He must be even more reluctant to break up now that he knows, right? You have no idea how depressed he has beentely¨C he actually drinks himself silly every day, and he must have lost a few pounds. It hurts to see him like that, don¡¯t you agree?¡± As a matter of fact, Lulu did. Zachary had always had a sunny personality, and it hurt her to see him so depressed. Even so, Zachary¡¯s mother would hate her more after what happened. His mother had already been dissatisfied with her modest family before, and would now find her untrustworthy for breaking her promise. After all, Lulu had promised to leave Zachary, but now she was back at his side. It was obvious. how grievous that situation was for her. Still, Irene held her hand and assured her, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Rtionships mend, and with Zachary being understanding and protecting you, I¡¯m sure his mother would see your virtues as well ¡± Lulu, however, was not that optimistic¨Cthe look on the face of Zachary¡¯s mother had been terrible. ¡°Actually, I think everything is much better now.¡± Irene pressed on. ¡°You¡¯re now back with. Zachary, and you can face this trail together. When you shouldered everything alone, it was hurting you both, but now, Zachary isn¡¯t hurting anymore. Even if his mother is standing in your way, I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll work hard to resolve that.¡± Now that things hade to this, Lulu had to agree. ¡°I hope things will improve from here,¡± she sighed lengthily. ¡°Yeah. Let me get you my pajamas¨Cyou should go get a warm shower in the meantime.¡± Irene headed off to her room to do so, before taking her to the room Mrs. Watson prepared. The mansion wasrge, and the guest room had its own shower. ¡°I don¡¯t have new pajamas¡ªyou won¡¯t mind, right?¡± Irene asked with a smile. ¡°You used to wear mine anyway. It¡¯s all the same¡­¡± Lulu said. ¡°Thanks, Irene. I feel much better after talking to you¨Cyou should get some rest. You don¡¯t have to worry about me.¡± Irene was worried, however. ¡°I¡¯ll stay with you.¡± Lulu then remembered something, and could not help asking then, ¡°By the way, about the man who came to Zachary¡¯s house with you¨Cis that Tommy¡¯s father?¡± Irene shook her head and said feebly, ¡°If only it was him.¡± ¡°Eh? Why would you say that?¡± Lulu was confused. ¡°Isaac Jefferson is my husband,¡± she said quietly. ¡°But I had Tommy from an affair¡­¡± Lulu sighed, understanding just then that Irene¡¯s situation was much moreplicated than hers. ¡°Then does he know about Tommy? Doesn¡¯t he care?¡± Irene sat feebly beside the bed¡ªit was precisely what she was worried about. ¡°I¡­ I never thought about a life with Isaac before, but after a while¡­¡± ¡°You¡¯ve fallen for him?¡± Lulu asked, though it was more a confident statement than a question. Irene nodded earnestly. ¡°It¡¯s unexpected, even to me¡­¡± ¡°Not really,¡± Lulu said. ¡°I¡¯ve never met him, but I can see from his appearance alone that girls go crazy for him. Being young and rich, he just has to be a little nice to a gal for her to be head. over heels for him.¡± Irene could not refute her point.. Although Irene used to prioritize inner beauty over appearances, it turned out that she was only human¨Cshe certainly admired Isaac¡¯s gorgeous looks, falling for him just because he was a little nice, even forgetting the horrible things he had done to her. The Runaway Groom Chapter 153 The Runaway Groom Chapter 153 Chapter 153 Beauty really pulls the wool over one¡¯s eyes, does it not? ¡°I¡¯m actually surprised that I¡¯d have feelings for him. I want to tell him about Tommy, but I always have trouble speaking around him. Don¡¯t you get it, Lulu? I¡¯ve never had regrets before until I met him¡­¡® ¡± Lulu raised a brow. ¡°You regret having Tommy?¡± N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. Irene shook her head. ¡°I regret being so impulsive that night.¡± She had never regretted having Tommy, because he was her treasure. She regretted what she did, because she wanted to offer her best of herself to Isaac after falling for him. Even if Isaac told her that he did not mind, she did. Sitting beside her, Lulu said earnestly, ¡°Maybe I¡¯m wrong, Irene, but I¡¯d believe you if you told me that an average Joe does not mind that you have a child. ¡°But Isaac Jefferson is no average Joe, is he? He can have any woman he wants, and he may be infatuated with you for now. However, as time goes by, are you sure he can still ept another man¡¯s child? ¡°People have imaginations, and when he sees Tommy, won¡¯t he be imagining you getting it on with another man? Will that really not affect your rtionship in the long run?¡± That was exactly what stopped Irene froming clean with Isaac. Tommy was not his son¨Cwould he earnestly be nice to another man¡¯s child? And for her part, she would refuse to send Tommy away to live with someone else. ¡°I may be wrong, and even petty¡­¡± ¡°No, you¡¯re right.¡± Irene knew that Lulu had said all that out of concern, and she also understood the reasoning behind those words. After all, who knew if Isaac was just having a passing fancy with her? And how long would said. fancy last until it passed? It was her who should not get caught in the moment. Even if she had to confront her own feelings, she must keep thinking straight. Inhaling lengthily, she said, ¡°I know what to do.¡± ¡°Are you going to divorce him? Actually, he might be different from other men¡­¡± Lulu quickly tried to dissuade her. ¡°No¡­ Things aren¡¯t that solid with us anyway. We¡¯re just living together because we have a marriage certificate.¡± She decided that she woulde clean, but only when Isaac became certain that it was truly¡® till death do them part. ¡°Actually, I can help you raise Tommy if you really love Isaac. You know I can help,¡± Lulu 1417 suggested, sincerely being considerate toward her just then. Irene shook her head. She would raise her own child, after carrying him around for ten months. In fact, she would rather keep her child than her rtionship. Lulu sighed then¨Cfor herself and Irene. Their rtionship problems were certainly convoluted! ¡°Go take a shower now. Give me a shout when you need me,¡± Irene said, getting to her feet. ¡°Okay,¡± Lulu replied. After returning to her room, Irene took a shower but could not fall asleep afterwards. She sat by the bay window, hugging her legs as she stared at the moon outside. Click- The doorknob turned just then. The Runaway Groom Chapter 154 The Runaway Groom Chapter 154 Chapter 154 Irene turned when she heard it, and got off the window seat, walking up to Isaac when she saw him. ¡°How¡¯s Zachary?¡± Isaac loosened his cor. ¡°He¡¯s going to resign from the hospital and start work at his family¡¯s company.¡± Irene¡¯s expression darkened. She knew that Zachary loved being a doctor¨Cgiving up must cause him misery. ¡°Win some, lose some.¡± Isaac could see that she was worried. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about him.¡± Irene helped him take off his jacket but kept her eyes lowered. ¡°I¡¯m not.¡± Staring at her just then, Isaac thought that she was being different today. Irene hung his jacket and asked, ¡°Are you going to take a shower before you sleep?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°I¡¯ll warm the water for you,¡± Irene said as she went to the bathroom. Isaac caught her wrist then and asked, ¡°Something on your mind?¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Does it look that way?¡± She just wanted to live peacefully with him, and confront her feelings for him. And yet, Isaac¡¯s heart raced as she was being agreeable and tender! He scooped her up in his arms just then, and Irene wrapped her arms around his neck as she looked into his eyes. ¡°No shower?¡± Isaac ced her on the bed, and crawled on top of her. ¡°You think I¡¯m dirty?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯m very clean,¡± he said, and leaned in to peck her pink lips with his. There was a smile on his eyes just then, and he lifted her hand, cing it on his cor as he quietly said, ¡°Help me.¡± Irene averted her eyes shyly, and he turned her face toward him¨Che was at once unreasonable and overbearing. ¡°Look into my eyes.¡± Irene shoved him and pouted. ¡°You¡¯re a bully.¡± Isaac grinned, loving her the way she was now, and leaned in to brush his cheek against hers. And I¡¯ll only bully you.¡± Irene beamed. ¡°So you can actually be sweet.¡± ¡°I¡¯m only human,¡± Isaac replied. He was not inhuman¨Cit was only natural that he was less aloof around the woman he loved. As he caressed his cheek, his fingertips slowly moved down to her neck. He realized he could not pull himself away from touching that fair, delicate skin! Irene turned away slightly, giving her silent consent by not resisting. Isaac hence went wild and reached underneath her clothes! The sudden rush of cool air underneath left Irene cringing a little, but Isaac glued himself to her to offer her his warmth! Soon, Isaac had her in his arms as they curled in tandem under the sheets, kissing passionately and filling the air with ring hormones. N?velDrama.Org (C) content. However, just as they were about to melt into one, there was an urgent knock on the door! Irene quickly came to her senses from the dizzying heat and pushed the man on top of her. Someone¡¯s at the door.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac murmured distractedly¨Che was not particrly eager about answering the door, and his lips were practically glued to her skin. ¡°It¡¯s not locked!¡± she reminded him. Knock, knock- The person outside was clearly in a hurry, and Irene was worried they would enter. What if they came in? That would be embarrassing! ¡°They won¡¯te in,¡± Isaac mumbled. That was when Mrs. Watson called out, ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, your younger brother is here¡­ He¡¯s saying that your father has passed away.¡± Boom! It felt as if something blew up in Irene¡¯s head then, leaving her pupil dting. She appeared terrified, and Isaac came to his senses as well. Watching her, he asked softly, ¡°Are you alright?¡± Irene was too miserable to speak. The Runaway Groom Chapter 155 The Runaway Groom Chapter 155 Chapter 155 Irene suddenly felt cold all over, and Isaac gathered her into his arms, whispering into her ear as he comforted her. ¡°It¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯m here with you.¡± A crystalline teardrop trickled off the corner of her eye and disappeared into her hair. ¡°I hate him¡­ But it hurts so much.¡± Her voice was shaky and hoarse. ¡°I know,¡± Isaac said. Blood runs thicker than water. Lionel was her father¨Cthere was no way she felt nothing! ¡°I want to see him.¡± She scrambled to her feet. Isaac helped her get dressed. ¡°Calm down.¡± ¡°How could I?¡°! She suddenly shouted from agitation, but soon realized that she should not have taken it out on Isaac, even if she was feeling miserable. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she said quietly. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault,¡± he told her as he wiped away her tears. She stared nkly at him, and suddenly threw herself into his arms and bawled, her shoulders. shaking as she did! Isaac returned her embrace and patted her on the back. It took a while for her to calm down, dress up, and leave the house. She did not manage to see Lionel when she reached the hospital. His body had already been wheeled into the morgue and covered in white cloth. Irene paused in hesitation for a moment, and started walking toward it. Samantha was crying hysterically nearby, and she pushed Irene away. ¡°You jinx! Your father died because of you-¡± ¡°Mom!¡± Ricky Spencer promptly cut her short. ¡°How could you me her?! You were the one who kept arguing with Dad until he choked and died!¡® He was there when Lionel died, and he naturally knew that Lionel¡¯s death had nothing to do with Irene. Samantha shot him a vicious re just then¨Cwhy did her boy always side with everyone else, as if he did not know his own family? Irene stared icily at Samantha then. While Lionel was terminally ill, he could have lived a little longer¨Cit was most definitely Samnatha¡¯s fault that he died so abruptly. Feeling guilty, Samantha averted her eyes, but kept crying and howling as if she was heartbroken. ¡°Oh, what are we going to do without you?¡± she cried, not forgetting to throw shade at Irene as well. ¡°Look at that daughter of yours! She¡¯s not even shedding a tear! You raised her for nothing!¡± ¡°Mom,¡± Ricky said, pulling Samantha along. ¡°Let Irene have some time with Dad.¡± Samantha turned to re at her son, but Ricky pretended not to see it and kept dragging her away, allowing Irene some time alone with Lionel. Irene appeared calm, but her knuckles were balled at her sides, exposing how she felt! Isaac held her hand in silence, offering her warmth. She slowly calmed down thanks to hisfort, and she strode up to pull down the white cloth to see Lionel¡¯s face. Although his eyes were closed, it was clear from his expression that he did not die peacefully! Irene stopped crying, and turned toward Ricky. ¡°You were there when he died, right? Did he say anything?¡± Ricky was just about to speak when Samantha beat him to it. ¡°What else would he say? He¡¯s leaving everything to Ricky!¡± N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. It was obvious Ricky wanted to protest, but Samantha shot him a re and snapped, ¡°What, you think I¡¯m lying?! I¡¯m your mother!¡± She put considerable weight behind the word ¡®mother, as if to warn Ricky that she was his only family. Ricky¡¯s lips twitched, but he stayed silent. However, Irene did not actually hope for anything from him anyway¨Cshe was just testing Samantha. She would show no mercy, given Samantha¡¯s attitude. Although she did not want anything from the Spencer estate before, she now decided that she would take it all! The Runaway Groom Chapter 156 The Runaway Groom Chapter 156 Chapter 156 With a cold and severe tone, Irene told Samantha, ¡°You don¡¯t get to decide who the Spencer estate goes to. Also, I¡¯ll investigate my father¡¯s death, and I¡¯ll destroy you if you are guilty.¡± ¡°And I¡¯ll destroy you if you take a cent from my son¡¯s inheritance!¡± Samantha retorted. ¡°Mother¡­¡± Ricky was still trying to dissuade Samantha. Lionel had just died, and they were already fighting right in front of his body. How could he rest in peace at all? ¡°I¡¯m telling you, Ricky¨Cdon¡¯t listen to your father! I¡¯m your only family, and that woman has nothing to do with you!¡± Samantha bellowed furiously, because it really upset her that her. own son kept siding with Irene. She was convinced that Ricky¡¯s attitude was all Lionel¡¯s fault, that he had given his son all the wrong ideas! After all, how could there be a bond between step¨Csiblings? Moreover, her personal grudge against Irene meant she could not allow him to be family with Irene, and the conflict over the inheritance would only drive them further apart! Nheless, Irene called her out by name right then. ¡°Samantha White¨Cmy parents never got divorced, and that makes my mother and myself the designated heirs. No matter what you try, you won¡¯t get anything as long as I decide against it!¡± Panic showed in Samantha¡¯s eyes, but she quickly calmed down. ¡°It¡¯s in your father¡¯s will. Everything belongs to Ricky.¡± Irene was not about to argue with her in front of Lionel¡¯s body, and quietly told Isaac, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± She had kept herself strong throughout the confrontation, but her shoulders slumped once they left the hospital. Isaac put an arm around her shoulder and pulled her towards himself, then said quietly, ¡°Let¡¯s get you home.¡± Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°Yeah,¡± she murmured. When they returned to the mansion, they found Lulu waiting in the living room. She must have heard themotion when Irene left, and Mrs. Watson told her that Irene¡¯s father had passed away. That was why she waited for her, since she was unable to sleep anyway. It was the same for Mrs. Watson. Keeping her distance since Irene was with Isaac, she asked in concern, ¡°Are you alright?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene rasped. ¡°It¡¯ste now. Everyone should get some sleep.¡± With that, she headed upstairs, with Isaac behind her. Once inside her room, she curled into a ball on her bed. Isaac held her from behind, his body. pasted against her dainty figure, offering her silentfort. Even so, she never slept¨Cher eyes were open until sunrise, and bloodshot. Despite feeling worn out, she quietly got out of bed. Isaac did not sleep much either, and only dozed off near sunrise. Irene did not want to wake him, and picked up her phone as she headed to the balcony to call Sheryl. It must have been very early¨Cit took a while for Sheryl to answer. ¡°Hello¡­ Irene? Missing Tommy?¡± Her morning voice was hoarse. ¡°Mom¡­ Dad is gone,¡± Irene said nasally. ¡°Let him leave all he wants.¡± Sheryl seemed to misunderstand her. ¡°He¡¯s dead,¡± Irene quietly exined. ¡°You shoulde back.¡± There was no response from the other end as Sheryl¡¯s expression froze. ¡°Mom? Are you alright?¡± Irene asked worriedly. ¡°1¨CI¡¯m fine,¡± Sheryl replied as she came to her senses. However, she did not sound that way. ¡°It¡¯ll be difficult to bring Tommy on your own. I¡¯ll go ¡°No, that¡¯s going to take time. I¡¯ll be there, don¡¯t worry.¡± Sheryl cut her short. Although Irene was worried, Sheryl continued, ¡°I¡¯m bringing nothing for myself, so I can carry everything Tommy needs.¡± With that, she hung up. Irene could feel how urgent it was for Sheryl just then. After being married to Lionel for so long, she must have had feelings for him. The Runaway Groom Chapter 157 The Runaway Groom Chapter 157 Chapter 157 The air was chilly in the morning. Irene folded her arms, thinking to herself that she should have told Sheryl sooner¨Cshe could. have seen Lionel onest time, then. Lionel¡¯s death was not really peaceful, perhaps because he regretted not being able to see Sheryl one last time. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡± Irene heard the voice just as she felt a cardigan being draped over shoulders, and she turned to find Isaac standing there. His facial features suddenly seemed indistinct and he appeared morenguid than usual, though he was much more affable now. Turning away, she said, ¡°I just called my mom¡­ I should have told her sooner. I¡¯m the reason. why she never got to see my father onest time¡­ ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. They are their own people, and they can decide for themselves.¡± People who are in love would never live apart -separation itself is their own choice, and not something others can decide for them. They were both adults and could think for themselves independently, which was why Irene did. not have to feel guilty at all! Taking a deep breath, Irene said, ¡°There¡¯s still time. Get some sleep¨Cyou didn¡¯t sleep much because of mest night.¡± Isaac stared into the distance. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m staying with you.¡± Irene nced sideways at him just then. People are at their most vulnerable when they lose their loved ones. However, having someone with them¨Ceven if they said nothing¨Cstaves off the loneliness, offering comfort in spirit! As the skies brightened, Irene left without breakfast, refusing Isaac¡¯s offer to go with her. After all, he had work to do, and had already stayed with her long enough. Moreover, she had already composed herself. The first thing she did is head to thewyer¡¯s office, and inquire about the legal process of the inheritance. It turns out that Ricky had a legal right to the estate even if Samantha never married Lionel. It was not as if Irene wanted the Spencer estate as her own, but Samantha had basically killed Lionel for the sake of the inheritance. That was reason enough for Irene to stop her! Still, she could not deny Samantha entirely since Ricky had legal capacity to be an heir, meaning that the legal route was futile. She muste up with an ideater too, since the current priority was to arrange for Lionel¡¯s funeral. No matter how unpleasant things were between them, Lionel was still her father, and her grief was genuine. However, when she arrived at the hospital to arrange for Lionel¡¯s body to be sent to a funeral home, she found out that it had already been taken away. Checking the records, she saw that the papers bore Ricky¡¯s signature. It was only natural¨Che was Lionel¡¯s son and had every right. On the other hand, Samantha could not have done it since she was not legally married to Lionel. Irene rushed to Spencer Mansion, and to no surprise, she found that Samantha was dressed fully in ck and had already set up a funeral, while carrying herself as if she owned the ce! Irene knew that Samantha was nning to preside over the funeral and convince everyone that she was Lionel¡¯s wife¨Cshe was a guest trying to outshine the host! As she walked into the mansion, Samantha was still ordering everyone around, and glowered when she saw Irene approaching. Irene was the person she wanted the least to show up, because she would rather everyone forgot about her. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± she growled at Irene with a re. Irene was unaffected and not inclined to argue¨Canything could wait until after Lionel¡¯s funeral. ¡°I should be asking that question¨CI¡¯m Lionel¡¯s daughter, and you¡¯re an illegitimate mistress. I have every right to tell you to leave and even make you, and letting you stay is my grace. So understand this: I¡¯m letting you stay because you are the mother to my father¡¯s child, but know who owns this ce.¡± The word ¡®illegitimate¡® left Samantha¡¯s face ashened¨Cit was her Achilles¡® heel, and she always hated Lionel for not marrying her. She gritted her teeth as Irene headed into the mansion. Murderous intent seized her right. then, as she realized that Ricky would never im the entirety of the Spencer estate as long as Irene was alive! Seeing that Irene was walking toward a steel shelf, a venomous look appeared in her eyes and she darted forward, pushing it just as Irene passed through underneath, sending it crashing down on Irene! ¡°Die, Irene Spencer!¡± sheughed vilely. Irene noticed the movement, and her eyes widened in shock and disbelief as the steel shelf loomed! Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°Watch out!¡± someone called out. Then, before the steel shelf reached her, a dark figure ran to her side, pushing her firmly away from the falling shelf. With a loud crash, the shelf copsed, and Irene¡¯s face turned pale when she saw who it was who saved her! The Runaway Groom Chapter 158 The Runaway Groom Chapter 158 Chapter 158 It was Ricky! ¡°Ricky!¡± Samantha ran to him in terror, fearful of the worse. Ricky was already unconscious when she lifted the shelf off him, and she pped his cheeks, crying, ¡°Get up, Ricky! Please, you¡¯re scaring me¡­ Don¡¯t do this to me¡­¡± Samanthat¡¯s tears were genuine this time¨CRicky was her only son, and everything she did was for him. She had pinned all her hopes on him! She could not live without him! ¡°Why are you so stupid?! Why would you save her?! She¡¯s trying to take everything from you!¡± On the other hand, Irene was bleeding from her knee, but she whipped out her phone to call an ambnce even before taking a look at her own injury. When she limped over to check on Ricky, however, Samantha seemed to be convinced that she was out to hurt Ricky, and pushed her away. ¡°Don¡¯t touch my son!¡± Irene stumbled, but coolly said, ¡°Let me tend to him if you want him to be safe¨CI¡¯m a doctor, I won¡¯t hurt him.¡± Samantha, however, was cradling Ricky¡¯s head and crying hysterically, ¡°It¡¯s your fault he¡¯s like this¡­¡± ¡°You did this to him because you wanted to hurt me,¡± Irene said, rising to her feet. ¡°Since you don¡¯t want me to look at him, I won¡¯t. It¡¯s more money for me if he dies anyway.¡± Those words punched Samantha exactly where it hurt! ring viciously at Irene, she raved, ¡°I knew it! You¡¯re evil!¡± Irene simply thought nothing of her ravings, and simply took charge of the funeral arrangements, instructing the funeral home employees to keep working and not bother themselves with Samantha. ¡°No!¡± Samantha suddenly shrieked. ¡°T¨CThere¡¯s blood¡­¡± Irene quickly went over to check on Ricky, and saw the blood seeping out of his hair. He must have been hurt, and checked the wound. Samantha did not stop her this time. ¡°Is he going to be fine?¡± Irene ignored her as she focused on checking Ricky¨Cshe found a shallow cut on top of his head, but it was not life¨Cthreatening at all. She deftly stopped the bleeding, and the ambnce soon arrived, taking Ricky to the hospital while a worried Samantha followed. With that, Irene was now fully in charge of the funeral arrangements. As she entered the hall, she scowled when she saw the urn of ashes ced on a table. Samantha had Lionel¡¯s body cremated before Sheryl could return, preventing Sheryl from seeing Lionel onest time. She clenched her fist in frustration¨CSamantha was utterly heinous! Bzzt- Her phone started to ring¨Cit was a call from Sheryl. She would soon arrive in Cloud City, and needed Irene to give her a ride. Irene quickly took a taxi, arriving at the station and waited for a while until Sheryl arrived. Tommy was almost two months old now, and his cheeks were very pudgy. Irene was overjoyed and excited to see her boy again, her heart almost melting as she took him from Sheryl¡¯s arms. She felt that this was the happiest moment in her life, but her eyes felt so puffy she could not even laugh.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. The Runaway Groom Chapter 159 The Runaway Groom Chapter 159 Chapter 159 Irene was convinced that she had failed as a mother. She could not stay with her son in the days immediately following his birth, let alone give her son a complete family. ¡°Your father¡­¡± Sheryl began just then. That was when Irene looked up at her mother, and saw the terrible look on her face. She must have been crying. ¡°Sorry, Mom,¡± she said apologetically. ¡°I should have told you sooner so that you can see Dad onest time.¡± Shery did not me her¨CIrene had mentioned Lionel¡¯s condition before, but she paid not heed. Breathing a long sigh, she said, ¡°I¡¯m unhappy and feel much grief against him, but he¡¯s gone now, and it all ends with him. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here¡ªI should be there to send him off as his wife.¡± Then, handing Tommy¡¯s belongings to Irene, she said, ¡°Tommy is still very young. Take him -I¡¯ll go back to Spencer Mansion.¡± Irene was worried. ¡°I should go with you- ¡°No. Tommy is just a baby¨Che should not spend too much time with the dead. I¡¯m fine on my own.¡± Sheryl said, her stance firm and her appearance calm. Irene, however, knew that her mother still had feelings for Lionel, or she would not have refrained from divorcing him for so long. This is from N?velDrama.Org. Sheryl must be hurting inside now after Lionel suddenly died¨Cshe was pretending to be fine. because she did not want to worry Irene. Still, Sheryl had been more open¨Cminded ever since she recovered from her surgery. While she did not divorce Lionel because of lingering feelings, she also understood that Lionel hardly deserves much sentiment just for his adultery. Her feelings were less than mere attachment, and not a far cry from dissatisfaction! pping her daughter on the shoulder, she promised, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Irene. I¡¯m a changed person, and not as weak as I was before. Surviving alone made me understand many things, and I won¡¯t allow my weakness to make you suffer again like before. I¡¯ll never allow Samantha White to bully me, especially since I¡¯m still your father¡¯s legitimate wife and she¡¯s just some cheap mistress¨CI¡¯ll be the one presiding over Lionel¡¯s funeral.¡± Irene did a double take, suddenly looking upon Sheryl in a different light just then. After recovering from her surgery, Sheryl had certainly be staunch. Nodding, Irene said, ¡°I¡¯ll be thereter.¡± Sheryl gave Tommy a tender look then. ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. I know you want to spend more time with Tommy now-you were forced to part with him just after you delivered him, and it¡¯s been almost two months now. It¡¯s normal for you to miss him, so just leave your father¡¯s funeral to me, and take good care of Tommy. Remember, the living is always more important than the dead!¡± Sheryl was certainly as attached to Tommy as Irene was to her own child, since she had been tending to her grandchild almost soon after his birth. Lionel was gone anyway¨Ccaring for Tommy took priority. ¡°He just needs one ounce of powdered milk if he¡¯s hungry, or he¡¯ll belch a lot if he has too much. Also, stick to cloth diapers with airy cotton¨Cdisposable ones get stuffy no matter how good they are. I¡¯ve brought everything he needs here, so you can use them once you get home, Sheryl then rambled, as if worried that Irene would not take good care of Tommy. ¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± They then split up at the train station, with Sheryl returning to Spencer Mansion while Irene brought Tommy to Isaac¡¯s mansion. Lulu was just about to leave, but when she saw Irene returning with Tommy, she warily looked behind before running up to give the baby a hug. Worried that Mrs. Watson would see them, she asked, ¡°Your mother came back?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°But what would Isaac say if he sees Tommy here?¡± Irene was looking at Tommy with a tender look. ¡°If he knows, he knows.¡± Lulu was confused. ¡°You don¡¯t care about him now?¡°! ¡°I may be in love, but I¡¯m not about to hide my own child because of him. I agreed with what you said yesterday, but after seeing Tommy again, I realized that everything else ¨C including Isaac doesn¡¯t matter to me. I want to be with Tommy, and that¡¯s it.¡± ¨C Lulu was left in awe of her motherly love, and naturally did not try to talk her out of it. ¡°I don¡¯t regret giving birth to Tommy, just as I won¡¯t hide him. I was paranoid before¨Cwith a man like Isaac, he¡¯ll eventually get sick of me even if Tommy was never born. Also, hiding my child from him would be no different from lying to him, and being irresponsible in our rtionship. I love him, and therefore should show him everything about me. It¡¯s only human nature if he can¡¯t ept Tommy, and I won¡¯t me him. If he can¡­¡± She gently brushed her finger on Tommy¡¯s soft cheek, her heart and eyes fixed on her tiny child¨Cher own flesh and blood. ¡°If he can ept Tommy as if Tommy were his own child, I¡¯ll naturally y nice. I won¡¯t hesitate to leave if he¡¯s only paying lip service by saying he doesn¡¯t mind, but treats Tommy harshly.¡± Seeing that Irene had made up her mind, Lulu refrained from saying anything against it.¡± You¡¯ll probably be busy with your father¡¯s funeral, won¡¯t you? I¡¯ll have a few days free after finishing my work here, so I can help look after Tommy.¡± Then, ncing at Tommy, she added, ¡°His eyes actually resemble Isaac¡¯s¡­ Who knows? Fate may have brought them together, and you two might actually make a happy family for him. ¡°Boo¨Choo¡­¡± Tommy was suddenly crying. Mrs. Watson had just arrived downstairs after cleaning the rooms upstairs, and heard Tommy¡¯s crying. ¡°Why do I hear a baby crying?¡± she asked aloud in curiosity. The Runaway Groom Chapter 160 The Runaway Groom Chapter 160 Chapter 160 Mrs. Watson then noticed the tiny child in Irene¡¯s arms, and hurried toward her, asking, Where¡¯s this baby from?¡± Before Irene could answer, she asked, ¡°Is he yours, Ms. Adams?¡± Lulu nced at Irene and smiled tenderly. ¡°I wish¨CI¡¯m not that lucky.¡± That naturally puzzled Mrs. Watson. ¡°Then, whose is he?¡± ¡°Mine,¡± Irene replied. Mrs. Watson gaped. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson¡­ W¨CWhat did you just say?¡± Suddenlying up with an idea, she asked, ¡°Could he be Mr. Jefferson¡¯s?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± ¡°What?!¡± Mrs. Watson became flustered. ¡°If he isn¡¯t¡­ then who¡¯s the father? Did you have a child with another man?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Irene replied, having no intention of denying it. ¡°Irene.¡± A deep, slightly angry growl could be heard behind her just then. Irene turned to find Henry leaning against his crutch at the doorway. He was glowering, and must have overheard her conversation with Mrs. Watson. ¡°Come with me,¡± he growled, and headed to Isaac¡¯s study. Moneypenny was with him, and he leveled a cool, using look at Irene as well. After all, Henry had admired Irene in the past, and even held high hopes for her. To think that she was actually so¡­ unseemly! Irene passed Tommy to Lulu and quietly said, ¡°Wait in your room.¡± Lulu nodded and warily brought Tommy to her room. At the same time, Mrs. Watson was staring worriedly at Irene. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson¡­¡± Even so, Irene had to face this¨CHenry would eventually find out anyway. Taking a deep breath, she entered the study, and Moneypenny closed the door behind her. ¡°Come here,¡± Henrymanded, and Irene went to stand before the desk. ¡°So, you really cheated on Isaac?¡± he asked. He was already aware of the rumors, but to see it with his own eyes infuriated him further. After all, he was the one who had arranged for Irene to marry Isaac. But now that things had turned out like this, how could he face his own son or Isaac?! Irene said nothing. Bang! Taking her silence for admission, Henry mmed his palm on the table, startling Irene and making her flinch! It was the first time she had seen him being this angry¨Che had always been kind to her. Even so, she knew very well that she was the one at fault. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°Fat load of good that does!¡± Henry huffed. Moneypenny patted his back to calm him. ¡°Sir, you knew about this. There¡¯s no need to get upset you would only harm your health.¡± Indeed, Henry was furious when he first found out, but to see Irene holding a living child with. his own eyes¡­ He had trusted her so much, even footing the bill for her mother¡¯s surgery, only for her to humiliate and betray Isaac! This was how she repaid his favor! ¡°You¡¯re nothingpared to your grandfather!¡± Henry bellowed. In fact, the reason he was still being this polite was because Irene¡¯s grandfather had saved his life! Eventually calming down, he said, ¡°You don¡¯t deserve to stay with Isaac after this.¡± Irene agreed, but things were different for them now¨Cthey had feelings for each other. ¡°Henry¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t call me that!¡± Henry snapped, cutting her short. ¡°I was the one who consented to this. marriage from the start, so I shall end it myself now!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 161 The Runaway Groom Chapter 161 Chapter 161 Suddenly, Irene felt as if something was stuck in her chest, suffocating her. ¡°You¡¯re not insisting on staying, are you?¡± Henry growled, seeing the look on her face. ¡°Are you really making a bastard called Isaac daddy? Would he ept that? Do you think I would?¡± Irene suddenly realized that she had missed out something important¨CIsaac was the heir to his family¡¯s inestimable wealth! The greater the dynasty, the more selective they were about bloodlines. Even if Isaac insisted that he did not mind and was willing to raise Tommy as his own, would Henry allow Tommy in the family, when the blood of the Jeffersons did not flow in his veins? It was maybe eptable for the average family, but not for a dynasty, especially with a throne and money at stake. Irene realized that she had been delusional. Having focused on herself and Isaac, she had ignored innumerable external elements, along with the environment where Tommy would be raised, or if she would hurt him spiritually. She was so obsessed with herself that she had neglected him. She was obliged to provide a stable,fortable environment for Tommy, not a dynasty with convoluted rtions. Meeting Henry¡¯s gaze, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave.¡± Henry was naturally satisfied with her attitude. ¡°I won¡¯t harass you since you¡¯re being Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. agreeable. I¡¯ll handle the paperwork for the divorce, since I was the one who registered your marriage anyway.¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Irene hung her head. ¡°I¡¯ve let you down, even though you saved my mom¡­ ¡°Save it. Words mean nothing after that mess. One way or another, I don¡¯t want to see that child in my house, and I have a task for you.¡± Henry¡¯s tone was bing increasingly impolite, but he believed that Irene was obligated to help after the mess she caused. ¡°Of course,¡± Irene was willing to help, since he did save her mother¨Cif nothing else, she did. not have to feel guilty afterward. ¡°There¡¯s a woman named Kathy York who is working for Isaac. She¡¯ll rece you, but Isaac is unwilling to divorce you. As such, I want you to make him hate you.¡± ¡°Can I ask for something else?¡± Irene asked. She did not want things to be so bitter with Isaac even if she had to leave. ¡°Fine,¡± Henry replied with no hesitation. ¡°Get Isaac to fall for Kathy.¡± Irene frowned¡ªthe first one was actually better! How could she bear to y matchmaker for the man she loved? ¡°What, you think you can¡¯t do it?¡± Henry asked icily, convinced that she was already making excuses and not actually willing to help him. ¡°I¡¯m sure you know Isaac¡¯s temper, sir,¡± Irene pointed out. ¡°Do you think I really have what it takes to control him? I can only promise to do my best, but don¡¯t me me if I don¡¯t seed.¡± Despite what she said, she knew that she could not refuse Henry, and must repay him for saving her mother¨Cotherwise, he would use it persistently as leverage against her in the future. On the other hand, Henry mused to himself for a while. ¡°You¡¯re right. Isaac¡¯s temper is not to be trifled with¡­ Just do your best.¡± Then, turning toward Moneypenny, he growled, ¡°Send orders to everyone who saw or heard what happened here. Tell them that Isaac is not to be informed.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Moneypenny replied, and left. Henry then turned toward Irene. ¡°That means you too.¡± ¡°I know,¡± Irene replied. Satisfied, Henry left the mansion, and Irene headed downstairs as well¨Cshe had to lean. against the scaffolding, since she felt as if her whole body had turned soft. Worried about her, Lulu quickly went to her after Henry left, and helped her stand. ¡°Are you alright?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Yeah,¡± she replied, while trying to look her best. ¡°Where¡¯s Tommy? Is he still crying?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 162 The Runaway Groom Chapter 162 Chapter 162 ¡°I¡¯ve fed him and coaxed him to sleep,¡± Lulu replied. Right now, she was worried that Henry had made things difficult for Irene, especially after she saw the horrific look on his face as he left. Irene shook her head. ¡°We have to go.¡± ¡°Go? Go where?¡± Lulu asked. Irene certainly had no idea¡­ All she knew was that she must leave with Tommy, and she needed Lulu¡¯s help again. ¡°Are you really fine?¡± Lulu could see that she looked terrible. ¡°I think I¡¯ve made more than a few mistakes¡­¡± Irene murmured darkly. Henry¡¯s visit made her aware of a great many things, and the worst of all was that she had allowed her sentiment to take control of her! She was so deluded she believed she could stay with Isaac, when Tommy was the impassable rift between them¨Cthe Jeffersons would never allow a child who was not of their blood! For her part, she will not allow her son to suffer, and he most certainly would if she left him with the Jeffersons! ¡°Mistakes? What are you talking about?¡± Lulu asked. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have brought Tommy here. Henry Jefferson was being nice today for my grandfather¡¯s sake, or we would have been thrown to the curb.¡± She was the one who did not think things through, and Henry had every right! Lulu sighed, and patted her on the shoulder tofort her¨CLulu certainly had no words to offer her here. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Irene said, understanding that she was at fault, and she could not me the old. man for his requests either. She had not been thinking straight! They left to stay at a nice hotel, and as Lulu helped her pack, she asked, ¡°This won¡¯t do. Have you thought about where you¡¯ll settle down?¡± They were adults and being constantly on the move was fine, but not for an infant like Tommy. ¡°I¡¯ll buy a house after my father¡¯s funeral, so that my mom and Tommy have somewhere to stay,¡± Irene said, sitting beside the bed and staring at Tommy. ¡°I won¡¯t pursue a rtionship when I have Tommy.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be silly. You can fall in love even if you have a child!¡± Lulu eximed, finding Irene suddenly pessimistic. She sat beside Irene. ¡°I¡¯ve been worried at first since the Jeffersons were a dynasty. That¡¯s why I suggested that you keep Tommy a secret. Like Irene, she was being ousted by a dynasty, and therefore understood Irene¡¯s situation. Still, thinking about that left Lulu depressed too. ¡°You¡¯re much better off, y¡¯know.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Zachary earnestly loves you.¡± In other words, Lulu was not facing the tribtions at hand alone. As for herself¡­ Irene took a deep breath and stopped thinking about that. She did not have the time, since Lionel¡¯s funeral was not settled yet. ¡°Could you babysit Tommy over the next couple days?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Lulu assured her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll take good care of him.¡± Lulu was Irene¡¯s only best friend, and Irene trusted her enough to leave Tommy in her care. ¡°You should make things quick, but don¡¯t forget to take care of yourself,¡± she told her. Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org. Irene nodded she must stay strong for her son. ¡°I¡¯m worried my mom would be harassed back home. I should go now,¡± she said. ¡°Okay. Don¡¯t worry, just do what you have to,¡± Lulu told her. After leaving the hotel, Irene headed straight to Spencer Mansion. The instant she entered, she found Samantha blustering at Sheryl. ¡°Lionel already dumped you! Who do you think you are, presiding over his funeral? I¡¯m the rightful Mrs. Spencer!¡± Sheryl, however, was not enduring her nonsense in silence like before. The Runaway Groom Chapter 163 The Runaway Groom Chapter 163 Chapter 163 ¡°Who do I think I am? I should be asking you that-Lionel never divorced me.¡± Sheryl spoke calmly and quietly, but it was enough to leave Samantha speechless! The fact that Samantha was not legally married to Lionel would always be her Achilles¡® heel. Sheryl telling her that also hurt her even more than when Irene had told her that. Coupled with Ricky¡¯s injury, her frustrations piled and she flew into a rage. However, just as she raised her hand, ready to p Sheryl across the face, Irene strode up and caught her hand. ¡°My dad just died. Don¡¯t act like a fishwife at his funeral.¡± Samantha¡¯s eyes were bulging when she turned and saw Irene. ¡°Well done! Neither of you were here to visit or care for Lionel when he¡¯s sick, but you¡¯re here to get a cut of his inheritance as soon as he dies?! I¡¯m telling you, everything in this house belongs to Ricky!¡± Murderous intent showed in her eyes. ¡°And you dared to hurt him! I¡¯ll destroy you!¡± ¡°Just stop already!¡± Irene snapped and shoved her aside, not bothered to argue¨Ceverything could wait until after the funeral. Naturally, Samantha had to bear with it, since she could not beat Irene and Sheryl by herself. Still, she remembered her own son¨Cas long as Ricky was around, she did not have to fear them. Sheryl, however, was not inclined to keep arguing with Samantha. Pulling Irene to a corner, she asked softly, ¡°Why are you here? Where¡¯s Tommy?¡± ¡°I asked Lulu to babysit ¡± ¡°Irene.¡± Sheryl cut her short before she could finish. ¡°What is it, Mom?¡± Irene asked in confusion, and saw that Sheryl was staring fixedly behind her. She turned, and found Isaac standing nearby, and eximed in surprise, ¡°Why are you here?¡± ¡°To see you,¡± he replied. Sheryl gave her a pat on the arm and told her, ¡°I¡¯ll take care of things. Go on.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said, and saw Isaac walking up to her just as she was about to go to him. ¡°If you need anything, just ask,¡± he said, though it seemed like he was addressing it to both Sheryl and Irene at once. Sheryl was aware that their marriage was not one of love, and that her own daughter had to give birth to Tommy in secret. But even if their marriage was troubled, she had no right to pull rank with Isaac, just as she had no intention to add to Irene¡¯s troubles. As she turned to leave, Irene pulled Isaac aside and asked, ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Isaac was actually puzzled by her question. ¡°We¡¯re married, and your father just passed away. Shouldn¡¯t I be here as your husband?¡± The mention of their marriage left Irene¡¯s heart clenching and her eyes watery. ¡°It¡¯s going to be fine,¡± Isaac said as he pulled her into his arms, presuming that she was sad about Lionel¡¯s passing. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of you now.¡± Irene closed her eyes in pain. Lionel¡¯s funeral was over after three days, and hiswyer called for a meeting of all family members at the living room. Ricky¡¯s head was still bandaged¨Che had yet to fully recover from his head wound. He seemed uninterested in what thewyer was going to say, even lethargic. It was obvious from his face that he was still mourning his father. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°Mr. Spencer left a will after learning about his illness- ¡°He¡¯s giving everything to Ricky, isn¡¯t he?¡± Samantha pressed. ¡°Please stay calm,¡± thewyer said tly, taking out a folder as he spoke. ¡°Here it is¡­¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 164 The Runaway Groom Chapter 164 Chapter 164 N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. Before thewyer could read the contents of Lionel¡¯s will, Samantha snatched it away impatiently. There was joy and eagerness in her eyes as she opened the folder and scanned through it, because it meant she could get her hands on the Spencer estate now¡­ And yet, the more she read, the paler her face became¨Ceventually, all color drained from her face. ¡°No, this is impossible! Lionel wouldn¡¯t do this to me! This has to be fake!¡± she cried hysterically and tore the papers into pieces. Thewyer did not stop her, however¨Cthat was just a copy and not the original. It hardly mattered. ¡°You must be working with them!¡± Samantha continued, ring between thewyer, Irene, and Sheryl. ¡°You two¡­ You put him up to this!¡± Irene, however, was not bothered with her raving, and asked thewyer to read the will. Samantha was not about to let it rest, when Ricky caught her and said, ¡°Stop it, Mom. Mr. Cooper is a man whom Dad trusted when he was alive, and he won¡¯t lie to us.¡± ¡°Ricky, I¡¯m your mom- ¡°I know, but do you think you can change a thing now?¡± Ricky asked in return. Samantha was immediately silenced, and forced to listen to Mr. Cooper read Lionel¡¯s will despite her reluctance. ¡°I have been asked by Mr. Lionel Spencer to read his will, which dictates the distribution of his inheritance. Spencer Mansion, as well as any mary possessions, are to be passed on to his. wife, Sheryl Harris, while management and shares of hispany are to be split between Irene Spencer and Ricky Spencer¡­¡± Mr. Cooper paused at that point for a moment, before continuing, ¡°Please note that there is a condition to this split: Without Irene Spencer¡¯s permission, Ricky Spencer is not to meddle in anypany affairs, and she will head thepany in the interim. In other words, Ricky Spencer has half the shares to thepany but not authority over it. Irene Spencer has her own discretion on when she will grant him said authority.¡± Ricky remained aloof despite hearing all of that¨Cthere was neither anger nor disappointment in his face. It was a clear contrast from Samantha as she sat beside him, because her face was contorted with rage! ¡°There is another item addressed to Ms. Irene Spencer,¡± Mr. Cooper said, and handed Irene an envelope. She looked at him quizzically, and he suggested, ¡°Perhaps Mr. Spencer had something to tell you?¡± Irene opened the envelope, and closed it again after calmly reading through it. ¡°You knew?¡± she asked Mr. Cooper. Lionel must have trusted him very much to leave this with him. ¡°I do,¡± Mr. Cooper replied. ¡°Just say the word, and it shall be done.¡± ¡°Do it,¡± Irene said casually. ¡°Do what?¡± Sheryl asked in curiosity. ¡®Samantha White tried to murder me but failed,¡± Irene exined, ¡°But it¡¯s a crime nheless. It seems that Lionel has evidence against her, and Mr. Cooper will bring in the police, as well as assume the role of my legal advisor.¡± Samantha dropped limply to the floor in sheer terror. Not only did Lionel leave her with nothing, but he wanted her dead! The injustice, the hatred she felt just then¡­ Was everything she did for naught?! ¡°Mom, did you really do it?¡± Ricky asked in disbelief. Even if he knew that she was cunning, he would never believe that she would resort to murder! Nheless, Samantha snarled in grief, ¡°Yes, I was worried that she would take everything from you¡­ and in the end, your father was ying favorites anyway! He gave everything to them, and left nothing for us! He even wants me dead!¡± Ricky¡¯s eyes shed, but he quickly hid it and pushed Samantha away. ¡°How could you do that?! Even if Irene is not your daughter, Lionel is her father too. You¡¯re heinous¨Cit¡¯s not surprising why Dad wouldn¡¯t leave you with anything. He¡¯s punishing you for your crimes!¡± Samantha¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. Even her son was now faulting her too? ¡°Argh!¡± she cried as her heart shattered. ¡°Why?! Why do I bother?! After spending my life with a man with nothing to show for, and now my son hates me too¡­ I should just die¡­¡± Samantha started to bawl miserably, and her tears were genuine this time¨CRicky¡¯s words cut her to the quick. Meanwhile, Irene rose to her feet and stared at her for a while. ¡°ept your punishment for your crime. That would count as doing something for your son, at least.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 165 The Runaway Groom Chapter 165 Chapter 165 With those words, Irene turned to Sheryl. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Mom.¡® Sheryl quickly followed Irene out of Spencer Mansion, which had be a bleak ce since Lionel¡¯s death. ¡°What did your father say in that letter?¡± she asked when they were out¨Cit had been gnawing at her for a while, but she did not ask immediately since Samantha and Ricky were around. ¡°Dad asked me to take care of Ricky,¡± Irene replied. Sherylughed icily. ¡°What is he thinking? Entrusting you with that boy? Is he that sure that you can ept such an arrangement? Even if you do, I won¡¯t.¡± After all, Samantha had groomed Ricky since she was a child, and he was therefore heavily influenced to be just like her. ¡°That¡¯s why Dad gave me evidence of Samantha attempting to murder me. He¡¯s trying to appease me.¡± In reality, Irene thought that Lionel was a little heartless¨CSamantha had been with him since her youth, even giving him a son despite having no legitimate ties to him. But in the end, he left her with nothing. It was certainly tragic, and it made evident how cold people could be. Sheryl understood then. ¡°He was siding with you, just so that you have reason to take Ricky under your wing?¡± Irene was certain that was Lionel¡¯s intention. ¡°Mom, have you ever loved him?¡± she asked. Sheryl¡¯s lips trembled, and she spoke with mncholy after a long silence. ¡°Of course. I wouldn¡¯t have married him otherwise¨CI¡¯ve even been delusional about him, not demanding a divorce when I learned that he has a mistress.¡± ¡°Do you hate him?¡± ¡°What is there to hate? He¡¯s gone, and my head is clear as if I¡¯d just escaped death myself.¡± Even if Sheryl had felt hatred andmented, she was now mostly feeling magnanimous. With Lionel¡¯s death, all the grievances between them were also written off. It turned out that Mr. Cooper worked fast¨CSamantha¡¯s case was done and dusted in just a few days. With the evidence of her attempted murder and her disenchanted state, things went very smoothly. Irene had lived at Spencer Mansion as a child, and Lionel clearly intended to keep it within the family, which was why he passed it down to Sheryl. Irene understood Lionel¡¯s intention, and moved in with Sheryl and Tommy¨Cwith this, she did not have to buy a house. Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. 1/2 Still, she was left with a headache because she did not know anything about business management. Lionel¡¯s decision to leave thepany under her management might not have been a good idea! Still, Lionel had entrusted thepany in her hands, and she would assume that responsibility. Once Ricky was mature enough and could stand on his own, she would give it to him she wanted to work as a doctor again. Lionel¡¯s arrangement was for Irene to hand over thepany to Ricky once he was older anyway, though the boy would need to be groomed in more than a few aspects. Knowing that it was what Lionel had been determined to do, she would realize his wish as his daughter. Still, the only businessman she knew was Isaac, who was usually very busy. Reluctant to impose, she headed to Light Group to speak with Stan instead. ¡°Come to my office,¡± Stan told her, and Irene nodded. As they took an elevator upstairs, Stan asked, ¡°Why me? Wouldn¡¯t it be easier to ask Mr. Jefferson?¡± Irene had not asked Isaac for a divorce, but she never forgot what Henry Jefferson had told her to do the other day. That was why she tried her best to avoid contact with Isaac, or she would feel more attached to him¨Cit would hurt worse when they finally split. Ding! The elevator stopped, and Irene followed Stan out to see Isaac nearby, apanied by a certain woman¡­ And Irene had met that woman before! The Runaway Groom Chapter 166 The Runaway Groom Chapter 166 Chapter 166 Irene quickly averted her eyes and tried to avoid them, but Stan suddenly said, ¡°Mr. Jefferson is here. Aren¡¯t you going to greet him?¡± His voice drew the attention of those nearby. As Isaac turned to look, Irene had nowhere to hide. Meeting his gaze and shing a smile, she said, ¡°I was going to consult Stan¡­¡± ¡°About what?¡± Isaac asked, despite knowing the answer. He just wanted to know how she was going to answer. Moreover, he had the feeling that she was distancing herself from him. She kept iming that she was busy and never returned to the mansion, even stopping him from attending Lionel¡¯s funeral. ¡°It¡¯s nothing important,¡± she said tly. Remaining impassive, Isaac told her, ¡°Come with me.¡® With that, he headed inside his own office. Irene stood where she was, hesitating if she should follow. Seeing that she was not moving, Stan quietly told her, ¡°Just go already¨CMr. Jefferson is being nice, but that doesn¡¯t mean he doesn¡¯t have a temper.¡± ¡°I know,¡± Irene replied, taking a deep breath mustering a smile, before turning to Kathy York. ¡°Wasn¡¯t she fired? Why is she still here?¡± Stan nced at Kathy as well, and replied, ¡°She was, but Mr. Jefferson told me to arrange a job for her afterwards. She¡¯s now working in the PR department, and she just came by to deliver some documents¡­¡± It was confusing for Stan too¨CIsaac was clearly only interested in Irene before, and regarded Kathy with disdain. That was why Stan was left confused about Isaac¡¯s intentions in rehiring her after she was fired. Could he have feelings for Kathy too? Still, Irene smiled. ¡°Weird, huh?¡± Stan nodded, but quickly came to his senses and shook her head. ¡°Please don¡¯t misunderstand -he¡¯s not like that.¡± Irene remained calm and kept smiling. ¡°Women love him, don¡¯t they?¡± Stan stayed silent¨Cit was the truth anyway. ¡°Surrounded by babes, he¡¯ll eventually get sick of boring women like me¡­¡± ¡°No, you¡¯re different,¡± Stan quickly said. Irene smiled but thought nothing of it. 1/2 Was she different? How so? Nheless, she chuckled self¨Cdeprecatingly and headed into Isaac¡¯s office. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Kathy was holding a document folder and shed a grin at her. ¡°We meet again.¡± Her visage appeared harmless, but the provocation in those eyes were apparent. Irene naturally knew that she was into Isaac. When ites to women, it takes one to know one¨CIrene had also sensed as much when Kathy visited them at Isaac¡¯s mansion. With Henry¡¯s support, it would not be difficult for Kathy to be the next Mrs. Jefferson anyway. ¡°Yes, what a coincidence.¡± Irene smiled, and entered Isaac¡¯s office. Kathy¡¯s smile faded in turn, her fingers clenching on the folder as jealousy and envy clouded her eyes. Naturally, she envied Irene¡¯s rtionship with Isaac, and was jealous that she had his love. Isaac was standing before the curtain wall of his office, and turned when he heard the door open. Irene had an impable smile on his face. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Isaac stayed silent, but his eyes never left her. ¡°What¡¯s with that look?¡± Irene asked, feeling uneasy from his stare and touched her own cheek. ¡°Something on my face?¡± ¡°Why not me?¡± he suddenly asked, and started toward her. Irene backed away to keep her distance, but kept smiling. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 167 The Runaway Groom Chapter 167 Chapter 167 ¡°You were consulting Stan about business administration, weren¡¯t you? Because you know nothing about that?¡± Isaac¡¯s voice was quiet, even calm¨Cbut the undercurrent in his voice was violent! Irene braced herself and met his gaze. ¡°My dad left thepany under my management, but I studied medicine and know nothing about business. I also thought that you¡¯d be busy and didn¡¯t want to impose, which was why I asked Stan-¡± ¡°Really?¡± Isaac chortled coolly. ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s gotten into you this time?!¡± Irene smiled. ¡°But I¡¯m just fine-¡± ¡°Still keeping up that act?¡± Isaac snapped, cutting her short. ¡°Did my grandfather talk to you? Irene¡¯s smile faded right then, and her lips curled downward. ¡°Did he tell you to leave me?¡± Isaac asked. Irene hung her head, but said, ¡°No.¡± ¡°Then why are you being so cold?¡± he demanded. Irene suddenly looked up, her face suddenly pale. ¡°Because I don¡¯t want to¡­¡± Fall for him, and be lost in her attraction to him. ¡°Don¡¯t want to what?¡± Isaac took another step forward, and Irene quickly backed away. However, the more she tried to run, the closer Isaac got, and soon she was averting her eyes from him, saying, ¡°I have something to do¡­¡± Isaac was left fuming that she was not being truthful even now, and he shoved her angrily against the door! Thud! Irene felt the back of her head hitting the door, and seemed to hear a ringing sound while she was left dizzy in pain! Isaac then caught her chin with a vice¨Clike grip and kissed her ferociously! Ouch! The first sensation Irene felt was pain¨Cit was more a bite than a kiss! He was being brutal, and iming her possessively. She did not resist, though she probably could not, and had to quietly endure his wrath. At the same time, he wanted more, and started reaching underneath her blouse, caressing her waist, and her eyes widened from his touch. ¡°We¡¯re in an office building! Your office, in fact- someone will see!¡± Isaac simply scooped her up in his arms and carried her to the couch. ¡°No one enters without my permission.¡± 1/2 Irene felt her throat turn parched, and she averted her eyes. ¡°My dad just died. I can¡¯t¡­¡± Isaac paused, the ze in his eyes cooling slightly. As he rxed his hold, Irene struggled, slipping out of his grasp, and ran out of his office. She was moving too quickly that she crashed into Kathy. As she looked up, Kathy could see the obvious bite marks on her lips. After Kathy left Isaac¡¯s office, Irene was alone with him, and it was apparent who was biting Irene. She scowled right then, but Irene had already left! After Irene was gone, Isaac told his secretary to call in Stan, who quickly arrived. Loosening his cor, he growled, ¡°Help her with whatever she needs.¡± Stan understood what he meant. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± However, he remembered just as he was about to leave, and turned to tell Isaac, ¡°Actually, Mrs. Jefferson saw Kathy York in your office, and asked why she was still working here. I could tell that she was a little upset¡­ Maybe she¡¯s jealous?¡± The gloom on Isaac¡¯s visage cleared slightly. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. Was Irene really jealous? Despite his joy, he acted nonchnt and said, ¡°I know. Go back to work.¡± Stan nodded. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Once he closed the door behind him, a faint smile appeared on Isaac¡¯s face. Irene was truly the source of his joy and rage! Outside, Kathy was shing a seemingly harmless, innocent smile at Stan. ¡°Where are you going, Mr. Hill?¡± There was no way Stan would tell her about Isaac¡¯s personal assignment, and simply replied, ¡± Just work stuff.¡± He started to leave, but Kathy followed. ¡°Could I ask you for a favor, Mr. Hill?¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Stan asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 168 The Runaway Groom Chapter 168 2/2 Chapter 168 ¡°You¡¯ve been working for Isaac for a while now, so you should know his favorite food. Can you tell me about it?¡± Kathy smiled. Stan, however, was wary¨Cshe addressed Isaac on a first¨Cname basis, and not by ¡®Mr. Jefferson. ¡°Why bother asking? You know that Mr. Jefferson married Ms. Spencer, who just left.¡± Stan was certainly sharp enough to tell what Kathy was up to the instant she asked, and weighed down on ¡®Mr. Jefferson¡®¨Che was telling her to know her ce as an employee, and not get out of line! Kathy murmured meekly, ¡°I¡¯m just¡­¡± ¡°You¡¯re here to work, so do your job and quit messing around. Have some dignity as a woman, and don¡¯t lust after a married man!¡± Stan warned her, and turned to leave. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. Kathy¡¯s innocent expression turned to a hateful re¨Cin her opinion, he was meddling in her business. A mere assistant, talking to her like that? Her hands clenched into knuckles at her sides as her desire to be Mrs. Jefferson became even stronger! One day, she would have Stan address her respectfully as Mrs. Jefferson! After leaving the building, Stan drove straight to Spencer Holdings. Irene was sitting in her office, and there were stacks of documents covering her desk. She barely understood most of it, since shecked knowledge in the field and the jargon used. She was at her wit¡¯s end when someone knocked on her door. ¡°Come in,¡± she said. Her secretary opened the door, saying, ¡°Ms. Spencer? This gentleman is here to see you.¡± Irene rose to her feet when she saw that it was Stan, and said, ¡°Let him in. You may get back to work.¡± As Stan entered and saw the documents on her table, he asked, ¡°Not used to your new job?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Well, I can only help you once for now,¡± Stan replied. ¡°I¡¯ll send a couple guys I trust after this to instruct you while helping thepany¡¯s management.¡± Irene said gratefully, ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You should be thanking Mr. Jefferson,¡± Stan replied as he walked up and picked up one of the document folders. ¡°He¡¯s the one who asked me toe¡­ I should also mention that he asked me to look into Spencer Holdings after your father¡¯s passing, and it seems that he had enough foresight to remove any unstable elements in thepany. That said, you need to pressure 1/2 those under you, or they will forget their ce.¡± Irene lowered her gaze. Stan was Isaac¡¯s trusted assistant, and he would not be here without Isaac¡¯s permission. She kept this favor in mind. Taking a seat, Stan continued, ¡°It seems that yourpany¡¯s operations are quite smooth. Here, let me show you¡­¡± Irene was studious under Stan¡¯s tutge. Time flew, and it was soon dark outside. ¡°Allow me to buy you dinner,¡± Irene offered. ¡°You¡¯ve been working the entire day.¡± ¡°Of course. Thank you,¡± Stan replied. As they stepped out of the building, Stan unlocked his car, and said, ¡°We can go ¡°Mrs. Jefferson.¡± in my car- A car had stopped nearby, and Moneypenny stepped out. Irene¡¯s expression stiffened when she saw him, and she promptly turned to Stan. ¡°I think dinner will have to wait. Moneypenny must want to talk to me.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Stan said, and drove off. The Runaway Groom Chapter 169 The Runaway Groom Chapter 169 Chapter 169 N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. After Stan left, Moneypenny started to address her differently. ¡°Ms. Spencer, you have not done what Master Jefferson asked you to do, have you? We even heard that you went to Master Isaac¡¯s office.¡± ¡°I wasn¡¯t looking for him,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I needed to talk to Stan Hill- ¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter who you were looking for¨Cyou¡¯re not doing your job!¡± Moneypenny snapped. ¡°Since you¡¯re not up to the task, Master Jefferson insists on doing it himself. Now, you just have to lure Master Isaac to a designated location, and it would be mission aplished.¡± ¡°Where?¡± ¡°Hotel Langdon, specifically the penthouse presidential suite,¡± Moneypenny replied. Irene could not believe her ears. Henry Jefferson was already attempting to make Isaac sleep with Kathy?! ¡°What, are you refusing?¡± Moneypenny asked. Irene certainly was reluctant. How could she bear to make the man she loved sleep with another woman? ¡°Did you forget your promise to Master Jefferson?¡± Moneypenny reminded her, and paused for a moment as he remembered something else. ¡°I forgot to tell you, but Master Jefferson has already finalized your divorce papers. You can¡¯t me him¨Cyou forgot his grace and let down his faith in you. Please be tactful enough to not break another promise to him.¡± Irene did a double take. Henry was the one who registered their marriage despite Isaac¡¯s initial reluctance to marry her. Now that Isaac was reluctant to divorce her, he finalized the divorce even in the absence of both parties. In the end, money talks, and the rich will always stand above the rest. Knowing that she had already reneged on an earlier promise, Irene said, ¡°I understand.¡± ¡°Master Jefferson hopes that you will bepliant-¡± Before Moneypenny could finish, Irene¡¯s phone was ringing. The instant she answered, Sheryl was crying out loud, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Irene! These people just came and took Tommy away!¡± ¡°What?!¡± Irene paled right then, her voice quivering. ¡°Who?!¡± She then met Moneypenny¡¯s gaze, and saw the look in his eyes. ¡°You?!¡± ¡°Master Jefferson hopes that you¡¯ll bepliant, and will thus take your son under his care over the next few days,¡± Moneypenny said nonchntly. Ireneposed herself and told Sheryl, ¡°Calm down, Mom. I know what¡¯s happening.¡± Once she hung up, however, she growled at Moneypenny, ¡°I told you I¡¯ll do it¨Cnow return my son to me!¡± ¡°You¡¯ll have him once you do what Master Jefferson has told you to. Don¡¯t me him if slip up!¡± Moneypenny threatened. you Irene was shaking with rage. ¡°No, I¡¯m going to him right now. He has no right to take my son especially when he¡¯s just two months old. I¡¯ll kill every single one of you if anything happens to him!¡± ¡°That won¡¯t happen, but only if you do what you were told!¡± Moneypenny snapped impatiently. Irene¡¯s lips were trembling¨Cshe certainly had more to say. Still, she realized that she would not get Tommy back even if she threw a fit at Henry. He had taken her boy away exactly because he wanted her to do her job¨Ceven if she was reluctant! ¡°Does that mean I can have Tommy back if I lure Isaac to the hotel?¡± Irene asked. ¡°No, they must do the deed,¡± Moneypenny replied. Ireneughed coldly. ¡°What, you want me to strip them naked and tie them up? Do you they¡¯ll do it even if I did that? You¡¯re asking the impossible, don¡¯t you think?¡± think ¡°You¡¯re a doctor¨Cyou know the right drugs for the situation,¡± Moneypenny countered. ¡°Just trick Master Isaac into taking it, and that would be water under the bridge. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll do well, for your child¡¯s sake. I¡¯ll be waiting for the good news.¡± Irene froze, while Moneypenny returned to his car and drove off, leaving her standing and staring nkly for a long while. The winds were ruffling her hair, and her feet were starting to get numb when she slowly hailed a cab back to the mansion. Isaac was not home yet, so she headed to Light Group again. He was in a video conference with an overseas branch manager, but called it off when his secretary announced Irene¡¯s arrival. ¡°Show her in.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 170 The Runaway Groom Chapter 170 Chapter 170 Irene entered and greeted him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Isaac glowered at that title, but Irene was not in the mood to fawn over him, let alone notice his expression. ¡°Are you free tonight?¡± she asked stiffly. Isaac leaned against his chair and asked tly, ¡°Why?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve booked a room at Hotel Langdon,¡± she said, her hands clenching and rxing repeatedly before she could finally calm down and speak. ¡°It¡¯s the penthouse- ¡°Wait.¡± Isaac cut her short before she could finish. ¡°What was that again?¡± His aloofness was feigned¨Che could barely hold back his excitement. How could he not be pleased with an invitation from Irene, after all? It was his ego that stopped him from expressing it. ¡°So, are you busy tonight?¡± Irene asked. ¡°No,¡± he replied so quickly that it betrayed his mood. Irene wanted so much for him to say yes. But she was even more afraid that he would. What if harm came to Tommy if he did not y along? She was at once conflicted and hurting. ¡°I will wait for you there. Finish up your work for now.¡± She turned to leave, but Isaac followed her and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go together.¡± Irene hung her head. Isaac held her hand then. ¡°Are you getting shy? You¡¯re the one who came on to me.¡± He did not mind being a loser around her, and was willing to throw everything aside if she took the lead. Grinning, he asked, ¡°When did you be so open?¡± She had never been so direct, but it did not matter if she was being chaste or passionate¨Che liked it either way. His heart raced as long as it was her. ¡°Do you still have our marriage certification?¡± Irene suddenly asked. Isaac¡¯s fingers tightened just then. He had been reluctant to marry her before, and his grandfather had been in charge of everything. As a matter of fact, he had never seen their marriage certificate. ¡°Why are you asking that out of the blue?¡± Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Irene smiled. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just remembered it for no reason.¡± Once they left the building, they got in Isaac¡¯s car, and he drove her to a diner. ¡°Let¡¯s eat first.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied tly. It was a gourmet diner, and Isaac had a private room since he was a VIP. The dishes served were scrumptious and unique to this diner, but Irene simply had no appetite. ¡°You¡¯re not hungry?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°I¡¯ve eaten. You can have my portion,¡± Irene replied without moving her fork at all. Isaac noticed then that she was not in a good mood, but did not dwell on it. ¡°Are you tired? If it¡¯s fine with you, I¡¯ll have someone take over administration of Spencer Holdings¡­¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene said, forcing a smile. ¡°I should be doing my best because my father entrusted it to me. I have to keep an eye on Ricky Spencer too, or I¡¯d worry.¡± ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t like him,¡± Isaac said as he took a sip of soup. Irene pursed her lips. ¡°My father asked me to take care of him, so I have to.¡± Isaac did not argue¨Cin spite of everything, Irene still felt a bond with Lionel. Otherwise, she would not have helped him look after his mistress¡¯s son, or take over management of his She was a really sentimental person. After dinner, Isaac started driving them home, and Irene became flustered when she saw that it was the route back to the mansion. ¡°I told you I booked a room at the hotel, didn¡¯t I?¡± ¡°Our home is better, no?¡± Isaac chuckled. ¡°No, we should go to the hotel,¡± she blurted. Isaac turned toward her. ¡°What¡­¡± ¡°Come on, we¡¯re married. Shouldn¡¯t we asionally spice things up a little?¡± Irene quickly said. ¡°You¡¯re being weird.¡± Isaac noticed that something was out of ce despite her persistent fawning. The Runaway Groom Chapter 171 The Runaway Groom Chapter 171 Chapter 171 At first, Irene¡¯s enthusiasm had clouded his mind. However, now that Isaac thought about it, she had been cold to him just this morning. Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Suddenly, she was getting eager, even inviting him to a hotel. It was clearly not logical. ¡°I just wanted to thank you. Is that so wrong?¡± Irene asked. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Stan taught me a lot today and helped with many decisions,¡± she exined. ¡°I know that he did his best only because of you, so I want to thank you.¡± ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Isaac¡¯s voice turned quieter. It was not because she loved him, and wanted to be with him¨Cshe just wanted to repay him for helping her? ¡°Hah!¡± He snorted coolly and darkly. ¡°So you¡¯re giving yourself to me in return?¡± Those words hurt Irene profoundly, but she repressed her pain and leaned against his arm, saying, ¡°I love you. Isaac jammed his foot on the brakes, stopping the car by the road. His expression stiffened for seconds¨Cher words certainly resounded in his mind! ¡°Do you know what you¡¯re saying?¡± he asked quietly. ¡°I do,¡± Irene replied, and it was the truth: she had no choice but to do this. Lifting her eyes to meet his, she said, ¡°I do this willingly.¡± Isaac realized then that he was not himself around her, and a single word or a smile from her could make him angry or sad. ¡°Oh, you.¡± He smiled, helpless and captivated. He knew then that he had fallen within her control! After he drove them to the hotel, Irene shoved him toward the bathroom once they arrived at their suite. ¡°Go on, take a shower.¡± Isaac¡¯s hand was around her waist, his brow lifted in eagerness as he leaned in to whisper into her ear, ¡°Can¡¯t wait?¡± Irene lowered her gaze and urged, ¡°Go on.¡± Isaac kissed her between the brows and quietly said, ¡°Wait for me.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± she replied. As Isaac turned and headed inside the bathroom, Irene¡¯s smile vanished the instant he closed the door behind him. She walked up to the table where a bottle of red wine was ced, hesitating as she reached for it. Nheless, the thought of her son gave her the resolve to pop the cap, and she poured the drug in as well. Moneypenny had prepared both the red wine and the drug, and she just had to wait for Isaac toe out of the bathroom. Half an hourter, he appeared in a bathrobe, drying his hair with a towel. ¡°Your turn.¡± Irene stood up and gave him a ss of the red wine. ¡°I ordered this, but I haven¡¯t had a taste yet.¡± Isaac took it. ¡°Everything here is always up to standard.¡± He did not seem to hesitate because Irene had poured it for him. ¡°Wait here. I just thought of something I should get,¡± she said, and headed for the door. Isaac caught her wrist. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll know when I bring it up,¡± Irene smiled and pried his fingers away. ¡°Just stay put.¡± With that, she left the room without looking back, her hand flinching the instant she closed the door. She headed for the elevator, and was just about to get in when Kathy York stepped out. She had dressed up borately in a red dress, and her makeup was immacte¨Cit was obvious she had spent a lot of time on it. She was not surprised to see Irene. After everything that happened today, she knew that she would be iming Isaac for herself and was hence smiling smugly. ¡°Henry Jefferson chose me as the next Mrs. Jefferson. Thank you for giving up your ce.¡± Irene quietly entered the elevator and pushed the button to head down, but Kathy ced a hand on the door to stop it. ¡°Henry is sick of you, so know your ce and stay away from Isaac. Irene simply pushed her hand away, and before the doors closed, she said, ¡°That man has a bad temper¨Cyou should be thinking about how to appease him instead. Why bother wasting your breath with me?¡± As she left the hotel, she wandered aimlessly on the streets. The myriad colored lights shed overhead and around her, but it all seemed dull in her eyes! Moreover, she felt a coldness within her heart even though the weather was warm. She did her best to take deep breaths and calm herself, and after sheposed herself, she tried to stop a taxi, intending to head to Jefferson Manor to get Tommy from Henry. That was when someone grabbed her by the waist from behind! The Runaway Groom Chapter 172 The Runaway Groom Chapter 172 Chapter 172 Irene cried out in surprise! ¡°Help¨COof!¡± Her assant had sped a hand over her mouth, even as she struggled wildly! Even so, he was too strong for him, and she was dragged into a car¡­ when she suddenly caught a glimpse of the driver. It was Stan! Her pupils dted, and she turned to find Isaac. But how could it be him? He should be in the penthouse with Kathy, and he must have drunk the drugged red wine by now! She stopped struggling then, and murmured gingerly, ¡°What¡­¡± The myriad colored lights outside shed as their car zoomed along the highway, but Isaac remained shrouded in the darkness as he spoke, ¡°Trying to give me off to another woman, were you?¡± His voice seemed to boom with a dark edge! Irene eximed, ¡°I didn¡¯t want to do it!¡± Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Isaac was not in the mood for her exnations, however¨Cshe had done it, and should therefore admit to it! His silence left her heart all strung up. ¡°I¡­¡± Meanwhile, Stan had stopped the car at the basement parking lot of the Light Group office building and left! ¡°How did you find out?¡± Irene asked. However, Isaac was so silent she could hear him breathe. Irene knew that he must be furious, and yet his breathing was even¨Cshe was actually doubtful that Isaac drank that wine now. ¡°You didn¡¯t drink it, did you?¡± she asked. ¡°Are you really so eager to have me sleep with other women? You¡¯d even coax me and drug me, because you¡¯re afraid that I won¡¯t?¡± Irene stared at him in the darkness. ¡°Would you believe me if I told you that I did not want to do it?¡± ¡°Hah!¡± He snorted. ¡°Did you really think I would still believe you?¡± Before he finished, he had pushed her down and moved above her, and there was no warmth in his eyes¨Conly frustration and rage! She was actually giving him off to someone else! Who did she take him for?! ¡°You didn¡¯t have to drug me¨Cyou¡¯re perfectly capable of enticing me!¡± With that, he tore open the cor of her blouse. The interior of the car was hot and stuffy. She did not feel cold from the heavy breathing. Her throat seemed to have tightened and was aze, and the words from her mouth were bitter. ¡°Stop¡­¡± ¡°Stop, what?¡± Heughed, and Irene could feel the coldness even without seeing his face. ¡°You have one chance. Tell me, why did you do it?¡± Irene closed her eyes. The whole thing had gone south. Did that mean Tommy was in danger? Henry was determined to make her leave Isaac, and abducting Tommy was just the start. What would he do to Tommy if she stayed with Isaac? She did not dare to think about that. ¡°I have no exnation. I nned everything¨Cdid you know that I asked your grandfather for help as well? He actually helped me with the divorce-¡± Before she could finish, Isaac grabbed her by the throat, pinning her down with a vice¨Clike grip while he ripped off her clothes. There was a thickyer of vapor on the car windows. He had been very violent. Irene sobbed, ¡°Do I have to die for you to let me go?¡± Suddenly, she startedughing miserably and maniacally. Isaac then grabbed her chin. ¡°What are youughing at?¡± he growled, and leaned in to whisper into her ear, remember the man you were with on the night of our wedding?¡± ¡°Do you Irene certainly did, and her lips trembled as she rasped, ¡°How could I not? He was the first man I had, and I cheated on you with him-¡± ¡°That was actually me.¡± Isaac pulled her by her hair so that she was looking straight at him. ¡°I was your first.¡± Irene shuddered in disbelief. Her mind seemed to short out right then, and she could not think. As she stared nkly, Isaac released her. ¡°I was being nice to Whitney Cox because she told me that it was her at the hospital that night, but you actually stood in for her, didn¡¯t you? I never told you because I thought you hated me for causing the loss of our children, only for you to betray me time and time again. Did you really think I can¡¯t live without you, Irene Spencer?¡± Buttoning his shirt, he growled, ¡°You want a divorce? Fine. I¡¯ll grant you your wish.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 173 The Runaway Groom Chapter 173 Chapter 173 With those words, Issac got out of the car, mming the door with a loud bang. Irene flinched. ¡°Isaac?¡± That night¡­ It was him? She dragged her sore body out of the car and tried to give chase, only to realize suddenly that she was buck naked. Pulling a shirt to hide her chest, she yelled, ¡°Get back here, Isaac Jefferson!¡± There was only darkness in the underground parking lot, and the echoes of her own voice were her answer. The hazard lights were shing, but he was nowhere to be seen. He was gone. Ireneughed, and soon tears covered her face. She was no slut¨Cshe had only been with one man, and it was Isaac! She suddenly had a slight desire for him¡­ to be with him! She sniffled loudly, and ignored her pain as she picked up her own clothes. She had decided that she would go to Henry, and tell him that Tommy was no bastard, but was Isaac¡¯s son! After putting on her clothes, her knees suddenly caved and she almost slipped, but managed to catch the car door in time. She tied her disheveled hair behind her head, and her footsteps echoed within the vastness of the parking lot in the night. She left and hailed a taxi by the road. On the top floor, Issac was standing before the curtain window of his own office. There was a river in the distance, illuminated by rows of street lights that reflected faintly off his face, keeping his visage indistinct. Knock, knock ¡°Come in,¡± he growled. Stan entered. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Isaac had one hand in his pocket as the other straightened his cor. ¡°Head to the security room and delete the footage from the basement parking lot. You don¡¯t have to go to Spencer Holdings from now on, and tell Mrs. Watson to throw every single one of Irene Spencer¡¯s belongings from my mansion. I don¡¯t want to see any traces of her.¡± Stan lowered his head. ¡°Sir¡­¡± 1/2 ¡°Do it.¡± Isaac refused to listen to reason. He had believed that Irene would eventually see that he was sincere, but it turned out that she had a heart of stone.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org. She refused to fall for him no matter what he did, even persistently shoving him to other women. Even so, Stan could not help asking, ¡°Because of Kathy York?¡± Isaac himself had ordered Kathy¡¯s sacking, only to arrange a job for herter. She must be special to him, or Isaac would not have broken his own rules. However, Isaac actually only remembered Kathy when Stan mentioned her, and said, ¡°That reminds me. Head over to the manor tomorrow, get the silver crucifix, and give it to Kathy York- ¡°But that¡¯s very important to you, Mr. Jefferson!¡± Stan could not stay calm just then. Was Isaac really moving on? Had his passing fancy for Irene already expired, and he now had his eyes on Kathy? ¡°It¡¯s not important now. I¡¯m just returning it to the rightful owner,¡± Isaac said tly. Stan understood right then. ¡°The silver crucifix¡­ belongs to Kathy York?¡± Isaac was silent, but he might well have said yes. While he was aware that his grandfather had arranged for Kathy to show up in his life from the very start, he did not know that Kathy iming ownership of the silver crucifix was Henry¡¯s ploy as well. One must say that Moneypenny¡¯s idea was perfect¨Cat the very least, Isaac never caught on to their ns on that front. Irene stormed into Jefferson Manor once her taxi arrived. Moneypenny was not around, so she went straight to Henry. The old man was mulling over his chessboard, and had yet to retire to bed. Irene¡¯s sudden intrusion actually left him puzzled. ¡°Why are you here? And thiste at night?¡± She cut to the chase. ¡°Give me back my son.¡± That actually left Henry confused. ¡°What?¡± ¡°You took my son, and threatened me to drug Isaac so that he would sleep with Kathy York. Those were all done under your orders, no?¡± Irene said icily. ¡°Also, know that the child is I- ¡°But I never took your son,¡± Henry said, putting down the chess piece he was holding. The Runaway Groom Chapter 174 The Runaway Groom Chapter 174 Chapter 174 Irene doubted that. Moneypenny clearly stated that Henry was behind everything. Keeping herself as calm as possible, she said, ¡°Tommy is Isaac¡¯s son. Do a paternity test if you doubt me.¡± Henry frowned, appearing doubtful. ¡°What?¡± ¡°My child is Isaac¡¯s too.¡± Irene snarled every word. Henry almost slipped just then-a servant reacted quickly to catch to stop him from falling. ¡°Go! Get me Moneypenny right now!¡± he barked. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± The servant promptly left to look for the butler as soon as he helped Henry to a chair. Irene was actually confused just then. ¡°You¡­ didn¡¯t take my child?¡± ¡°Why would I lie to you?¡± Henry retorted. ¡°Yes, I was hoping you¡¯d get Isaac to fall for Kathy York, but I didn¡¯t know about your child. Hell, I would¡¯ve taken the boy away from you at the mansion when we ran into youst time¨Ceven after all that has happened, I¡¯m not that cold that I¡¯d forget the fact that your grandfather saved me.¡± Irene was still doubtful, however. ¡°Then why would Moneypenny take away Tommy, while acting as if it was your orders?¡± Suddenly, the servant who left to find Moneypenny ran back into the room, eximing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir, but Moneypenny has gone missing!¡± ¡°What?!¡± Henry sprang to his feet, losing hisposure right then. ¡°Then, start looking!¡± Irene¡¯s face turned ashen in fear, and she stumbled backwards, almost falling over. If Henry did not know as well¡­ then her child was in grave danger! This would not do! She must look for them! But just as she made to leave, Henry called out, ¡°Where are you going? You don¡¯t even know where they are!¡± Irene could not help yelling, ¡°What, am I supposed to wait here?!¡± Henry might be old, but he was far from senile¨Che doubt that Moneypenny would betray him. Something sinister was afoot! ¡°Give me time. I¡¯ll have my people look for him,¡± Henry told her. Irene could not calm down, let alone stay there and wait. ¡°I¡¯ll help with the search!¡± Henry gestured for his servant to stop her. ¡°You think that¡¯d help?¡± ¡°I have to do something!¡± Irene¡¯s tears welled in her eyes¨Cshe could not do nothing when her child was missing! ¡°My people will return with Moneypenny, and we¡¯ll get to the bottom of this!¡± Henry assured her. ¡°Rushing into things does nothing¨Cyou¡¯d be no different from a headless fly crashing blindly everywhere. Give me time so that we can find Moneypenny and get to the truth!¡± Irene knew that she was just being impulsive and unable to stay calm. After all, the fate of her son was unknown. She started to wobble, unable to stand straight. ¡°I promise you, I¡¯ll find them,¡± Henry said he certainly knew Moneypenny thoroughly after the man had served him for so long Irene did her best to take deep breaths and calm herself. Everything was far beyond what she could have expected. After looking at Henry for a while, she could tell that he was not lying. But in that case, who was the mastermind behind Moneypenny? Henry thought of the same question, and his first thought was Ian Jefferson and his wife- they did attack Isaac before. He had warned them to stay in line, but there was still a chance that they were up to no good! ¡°Does Isaac know about Tommy?¡± Henry asked tentatively then. ¡°He doesn¡¯t,¡± Irene replied¨Cshe did not have the time to tell him. Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. ¡°Don¡¯t tell him for now,¡± Henry said quietly. ¡°With your child¡¯s fate unknown, he¡¯ll rush into things once he finds out. You don¡¯t want him to do anything dangerous, do you?¡± ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡± Irene pursed her lips¨Cshe certainly knew Isaac¡¯s temper. If he knew that their child was still alive but missing, he would not just sit and wait. ¡°Sir, Moneypenny¡¯s family is gone. They must have left earlier,¡± one of the servants reported. just then. Henry¡¯s expression turned grave and he rose to his feet. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Remembering Irene just then, he told her, ¡°Stay here and wait for me.¡± Irene was silent, but she decided that she could not wait¨Cshe would leave and start searching. The Runaway Groom Chapter 175 The Runaway Groom Chapter 175 Chapter 175 Irene decided that she could not sit and wait! As Henry left for Ian¡¯s home, Irene left Jefferson Manor, though she lingered at the gates, wondering as to who would want to abduct her baby¡­ Bzzt- Her phone suddenly rang. When she answered, Sheryl was crying urgently from the other end. ¡°Irene? Pleasee home quickly!¡± ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Irene asked. ¡°It¡¯s the people who took Tommy. They¡¯re asking for you!¡± Irene became spirited the instant she heard that there was a clue about Tommy¡¯s whereabouts. ¡°I¡¯ll be there as soon as I can,¡± she replied, and quickly used her phone to summon a taxi. That was when a car drove up to Jefferson Manor. Stan alighted, but averted his eyes when he saw Irene. For her part, she was actually confused why he woulde at this hour. ¡°Why are you here?¡± she asked. Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. ¡°There¡¯s something I have to get,¡± Stan replied, and headed into the manor. Irene did not press the subject since she could not spare a thought for anything but Tommy- nothing was more important than her baby. Still, Stan soon stepped out with a chest, and Irene remembered seeing it. Henry had also told her that before that the chest was very precious to Isaac. ¡°Why are you taking that?¡± she asked in curiosity. ¡°Mr. Jefferson told me to get it and give it to Kathy York,¡± Stan admitted. Irene did a double take, and asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t it supposed to be very precious to him?¡± Stan appeared afraid to look into Irene¡¯s eyes. ¡°It¡¯s just an object, no matter how precious it is. Also, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be visiting yourpany from now on¨Cyou should consult someone else if you need help.¡± With that, he got into his car. Irene quickly ran up to him, asking, ¡°Stan, please exin! What was that supposed to mean?¡± ¡°I¡¯m just doing what Mr. Jefferson told me to do,¡± he said as he started his car. ¡°If there¡¯s anything you¡¯re confused about, just ask him yourself.¡± ¡°Isaac? He told you to do it?¡± she pressed. Stan sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll be honest¨Che adores you very much, and has been most patient with you. And yet, you keep running away or try to fix him up with other women, so I think he¡¯s truly giving up on you this time¡­¡± ¡°So he¡¯s into Kathy York now?¡± she rasped. ¡°He¡¯s even giving her what was most precious to him?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Stan replied. ¡°I¡¯m just following orders, and again¨Cif there¡¯s anything you¡¯re confused about, just ask him yourself.¡± With that, he sped off. Irene¡¯s face was ashen. So Isaac was serious when he said he would divorce her? He was already wooing another woman as well, and not shying from giving away his most precious object? Her lips curled up in a bitter smile. He had kept saying that he loved her, but he never gave that to her. It seemed that Kathy was more important, did it not? As those thoughts crossed her mind, icy tears trickled down her cheeks, but she wiped them away firmly! Men were vtile, and a man like Isaac even more so! He was probably sick of her now¨Cshe was stupid to think that she could make up with him! After drying her tears, she reared her head and decided that she did not have to mourn losing a man like him. He certainly did not deserve to be the father of her child! Moreover, she had no time to shed tears now¨Cwhat she must do now was find her child soon. Her taxi soon arrived after, and she hurried back to Spencer Mansion, asking the instant she stepped through the door, ¡°Who is it? Who took Tommy?!¡± Sheryl did not have time to answer when the man in the living room stood up and said, ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 176 The Runaway Groom Chapter 176 Chapter 176 It was only then that Irene saw the man in the living room. ¡°You?!¡± She gaped, but at the next instant, she had bounded forward and grabbed Harvey Gooding by the cor, bellowing, ¡°Why did you take my Tommy?! Give him back!¡± ¡°That can be arranged, under one condition,¡± Harvey replied, calmly looking at her. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°Marry me.¡± ¡°You¡¯re crazy!¡± Irene¡¯s eyes were red. ¡°After Isaac did me dirty,¡± Harvey replied, breathing every word with weighted purpose, ¡°I¡¯d be a failure if I did nothing!¡± ¡°Go mess with him all you want!¡± Ireneughed icily. ¡°What does my child have to do with that? Hell, your proposal is even more ridiculous! Did you take the wrong meds, or did you finally lose your mind?¡± ¡°Neither. Right now¨Cno, my mind is clear the instant I took your child,¡± Harvey breathed with rising agitation. ¡°I knew Isaac Jefferson loved you the instant he spent millions on that painting, and what do you think he would do if I took you from him?¡± Irene did a double take, and thenughed so hard she was shedding tears. ¡°You¡¯re really mistaken there he doesn¡¯t love me at all. I would suggest that you abduct Kathy York instead of messing with me. Now, give me back my child!¡± ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Harvey bellowed. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m an idiot?!¡±N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. He had been keeping an eye on Isaac and Irene for a while now. Things had clearly been amicable between them¨Che would no longer believe Irene¡¯s ims that Isaac hated her. Even so, Irene shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not lying to you. Go abduct Kathy York yourself and threaten him¨C he¡¯ll pay you anything to get her back. You¡¯re barking up the wrong tree here.¡± ¡°That¡¯s fine with me. I like you anyway, and having you as my wife suits me fine even if it doesn¡¯t upset Isaac.¡± Harvey seemed to cool off at the thought, and he lowered his voice as well. ¡°I¡¯ll advise know your ce if you want to see your boy again. You have one day to make up your mind before youe to me tomorrow.¡± you to With that, he strode outside, but Irene promptly ran up to him, begging, ¡°Please, just give Tommy back to me-¡± ¡°Marry me.¡± He cut her short with a determined tone. Irene¡¯s temper red again. ¡°Why? I don¡¯t love you, and I won¡¯t be an obedient wife even if I marry you. And you also know that I had a child with someone else I¡¯m not worth your attention.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not up to you to decide, and you having someone else¡¯s child doesn¡¯t matter. I want you, and that¡¯s it.¡± With that, he pried his hands off her. ¡°I¡¯ll await your goodness, and make it fast so that your son won¡¯t suffer.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll kill you if you hurt him, Harvey Gooding!¡± Irene cried, grabbing his shirt so hard she clipped her own fingernails¡ªhowever, she felt no pain, and all she could think about was getting Harvey to return Tommy to her. ¡°I won¡¯t hurt him for now, but I wonder if that stays the same if you don¡¯t agree to marry me, ¡°Harvey replied. He was not relenting at all¨Cnot until he got what he wanted! ¡°Give Tommy back, or I¡¯ll kill you! Believe it!¡± Sheryl shrieked. She had taken a cleaver from the kitchen, and was aiming it straight at Harvey! She was putting everything on the line¨CLionel was dead, meaning that she, her daughter, and her grandson only had each other. And she would protect them! Irene had never seen her mother acting so rashly. ¡°Mom¡­¡± ¡°We know he has Tommy, and that¡¯s enough for me! I¡¯ll kill him if he doesn¡¯t release Tommy! As Sheryl clenched on the hilt of the cleaver, her veins were bulging and her hands shaking. After all, she was nervous too. The Runaway Groom Chapter 177 The Runaway Groom Chapter 177 Chapter 177 Sheryl knew that her weakness had caused her daughter many problems in the past, so she must not be weak now. She would stand before her, and shield her from everything! Irene¡¯s eyes were red. ¡°Mom,¡± she sniffled. ¡°Please calm down.¡± 4 Murder is a crime¨CSheryl would be imprisoned if Harvey Gooding died, and she did not want that. Harvey then added, ¡°I won¡¯t hurt the child, woman. I love your daughter, and will be a better husband to her than Isaac Jefferson when she marries me.¡± Sheryl, however, was not so easily fooled. ¡°Don¡¯t bother sweet¨Ctalking me¨Cyou wouldn¡¯t coerce Irene if you loved her, let alone threaten her with her child. You only see what you want, and you call that love?¡± Harvey was taken aback¨Che actually had noeback for Sheryl. Hence, he simply gave up on defending himself. ¡°Kill me, and you¡¯d be in prison. You¡¯ll never see your grandson again, but your daughter will be worse off because she¡¯ll lose you and her son. Who knows if she¡¯d lose her mind from grief?¡± Sheryl stiffened, but Harvey was right¨Cwhat would happen to Irene if the worst happened to her and Tommy? Irene went up to her and held her hand then, assuring her, ¡°There will be a way, Mom. Just calm down for now.¡± Sheryl¡¯s eyes welled with tears as she turned to her daughter. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡­ I failed to protect you and Tommy.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not your fault,¡± Irene told her as she carefully took the cleaver off Sheryl¡¯s hands. ¡°And I¡¯d rather you and Tommy both be fine.¡± Then, turning to Harvey, she said, ¡°My answer is yes, Harvey Gooding, but you either promise that Tommy will be fine, or it won¡¯t be my mom¨CI¡¯ll kill you myself!¡± ¨C ¡°Don¡¯t worry I¡¯ll take good care of him, since I¡¯d rather you not hate me. Once our wedding is done, you¡¯ll see him again,¡± Harvey said, straightening his cor. ¡°I¡¯ll decide on a date tomorrow, and I¡¯ll grant any requests you have.¡± ¡°I won¡¯t ask for anything. I only said yes because I don¡¯t want any harm toe to my child, not because I love you. That¡¯s why I¡¯m fine with the wedding, however it goes.¡± As she spoke, her eyes were ring fixedly at Harvey, while her tone was cold and stiff. Harvey thought nothing of it¨Che was the one who coerced her in the first ce. ¡°Nothing matters, as long as I have you.¡± With that, he left Spencer Mansion. Sheryl held Irene¡¯s hands then. ¡°If you don¡¯t love him, you won¡¯t be happy after you marry Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. him¡­ Moreover, you haven¡¯t divorced Isaac, have you?¡± Irene now understood what was going on. Moneypenny had sided with Harvey, either by coercion or the lure of riches! ¡°Mom, stay at the mansion and don¡¯t go anywhere,¡± Irene told Sheryl just then. ¡°I need to go somewhere.¡± ¡°Where?¡± Sheryl was worried. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I can look after myself.¡± Irene started toward the front gates, and ran headlong into another person who was entering. Irene saw him, but was going to quietly walk past him when he caught her wrist! She scowled. ¡°What are you doing?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 178 The Runaway Groom Chapter 178 Chapter 178 Ricky Spencer did not release her, however. ¡°I know that your son was kidnapped. Is there anything I can help with?¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Just stick to your lessons on managing thepany.¡± ¡°Tommy is my nephew even if you won¡¯t admit it. I¡¯m actually worried that he has been taken away, and I just want to help.¡± Ricky¡¯s tone was sincere, making it awkward for Irene to brush him off. ¡°No, I¡¯m serious,¡± she said patiently. ¡°It¡¯s a great help if you¡¯ll do your best to learn how to manage Spencer Holdings.¡± Something changed in the way he looked at her then. ¡°I will do my best,¡± he replied. ¡°Good. I have something urgent to do, so please let go,¡± Irene said urgently. Ricky did, and Irene hurried outside when she suddenly stopped and turned toward him again. ¡°Listen¨C the reason our father did not pass down Spencer Holdings to you directly was because he knows that you¡¯re not ready to lead yet. He may have entrusted Spencer Holdings to me for now, but understand that he loves and cares about you¡­ As for your mother, there¡¯s no question that she made many mistakes, and I hope you can let go of past grudges and concentrate on studying.¡± ¡°What are you saying?¡± Ricky smiled. ¡°I know that Mom deserves what¡¯sing to her ¡°You may be the only one who knows what you are thinking, but don¡¯t take others for idiots.¡± With that, Irene hurried off. Ricky had always been well¨Cbehaved around her, even speaking harshly of Samantha White just to curry her favor. She was not that naive, however. She understood that Ricky was trying to bridge the distance between them, most likely to take control over Spencer Holdings. That was why she told him all that¡ªthepany would eventually be his anyway, and she had no intention of keeping it from him. Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org. Furthermore, she would rather not have him hold Samantha¡¯s imprisonment against her, and stab her in the back in retaliation. She was already exhausted, and certainly did not need another person added to her list of enemies. She hoped that Ricky would have a change of heart, even if it was for the sake of past sentiments. Ricky, however, was left spacing out. Samantha was his mother and the nicest person to him in the whole world. There was no way he would be unmoved to see her jailed. Naturally, he was trying to win Irene¡¯s trust by being nice, after which he would take over the However, Irene¡¯s words made it clear that she knew what he was up to, and that he must now regard his stepsister seriously. She was smart, and it was not surprising that the father trusted her so much. Putting away those thoughts, he entered the mansion to find Sheryl sitting on the couch, and went over to assure her, ¡°Irene will definitely get Tommy back. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡± Sheryl was neutral toward the boy, even though Lionel wanted her and Irene to take care of him, even passing down everything he had to them just for that. Still, Sheryl was not about to harass Lionel¡¯s only son¨Cchildren should not be made to suffer for their parents¡® crimes. Moreover, Lionel had since passed away, and all grief and hate departed with him. ¡°I know. You should get some rest,¡± Sheryl told Ricky. ¡°Okay. Call me anytime you need me,¡± Ricky replied. Sheryl nodded, and the boy headed upstairs as she stayed at the living room couch. She could not sleep¨Cher daughter would not be coerced if she had protected Tommy! Henry had yet to return when Irene arrived at Jefferson Manor, so she waited in the living room for a while. The old man only returned when it was almost sunrise, and Irene was about to go up and greet him when she saw Moneypenny being shepherded into the manor. He extended a hand, and Irene took it to help keep him steady. ¡°It¡¯s not Ian¨CI¡¯ve checked,¡± he said. The fact wasforting to him. After all, he had been fearful that Ian¡¯s family was involved. If they did, not even Henry himself could shield them from Isaac¡¯s wrath. ¡°By the way, do you know a man named Harvey Gooding?¡± he asked. Irene nodded. ¡°Yes. He has beef with Isaac.¡± ¡°Ah. So he¡¯s after Isaac?¡± Henry asked. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Irene replied. The Runaway Groom Chapter 179 The Runaway Groom Chapter 179 Chapter 179 In spite of everything that Harvey told her, she really had no idea what he was up to. Henry breathed a long sigh and said feebly, ¡°This is on me too. I should¡¯ve noticed that Moneypenny was acting weird, and none of this would have happened.¡± Irene asked, ¡°So he was bribed?¡± he Henry shook his head. ¡°I trust that man, especially after he served me so many years¨Cno, can¡¯t be bribed. We found out that Harvey abducted his wife and coerced him into advising me so that I finalize your divorce with Isaac. Now that Harvey has abducted your child as well and forced you to marry him¡­ I have to ask, what¡¯s your n here?¡± Right now, Irene did not want anything to do with the Jeffersons, and a divorce suited her fine. ¡°You¡¯re unhappy with me, and Isaac is interested in Kathy York. There¡¯s no need for me to stay here¨Cas for my child, I¡¯ll save him on my own.¡± Her tone was calm, devoid of rage or indignation. Having made up her mind, she was certainly relieved. ¡°But isn¡¯t the child Isaac¡¯s too? He is a Jefferson, and therefore he¡¯ll never be abandoned.¡± ¡°Isaac is very much alive, and he can give you as many great¨Cgrandchildren as you want. But Tommy is my baby.¡± Henry frowned then. ¡°Hold on¡­ Isaac has taken a liking to Kathy York?¡± Irene smiled. ¡°He¡¯s probably head over heels for her, too¨Che gave her his most valued possession, after all.¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°Remember the chest I dropped, which left him furious?¡± she calmly said. ¡°He gave that to Kathy York¨C just goes to show how much he loves her now.¡± Right now, her mood was serene. Even if she did feel a little unpleasant, she refused to show it. Henry nced at Moneypenny just then, and came to a realization. Although Isaac had seen through his intentions to make him take a liking to Kathy, Isaac had failed to see that they had arranged for Kathy to recognize the silver crucifix as well. ¡°Irene¡­¡± ¡°Anyway, I just came to tell you that I know where Tommy is, and I won¡¯t breathe a word on whatever you told me not to say. Likewise, I hope you¡¯ll keep Tommy a secret from Isaac¨CI won¡¯t impose now that he has a new lover. Feign ignorance, or take it to your grave!¡± Henry frowned. ¡°Tommy is a child of our family. How could I feign ignorance?¡± ¡°Then what do you want?¡± Irene asked in retort. That silenced Henry for a while. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier that your child is Isaac¡¯s?¡± he eventually asked. ¡°I would never have kept Kathy away from Isaac if you did¡­¡± ¡°I was lying. Isaac is a perfect match for Kathy York,¡± she said, and sharply changed her tone.¡± What are you going to do with Moneypenny now?¡± Henry, however, was studying Irene¨Che was sure that she was not lying, since she was confident enough to let him have Tommy go through a paternity test. But she was denying it now¡­ could it mean that it irked her that Isaac was with Kathy now? Moneypenny¡¯s influence had certainly pulled the wool over his eyes, confirming Isaac and Irene¡¯s divorce. ¡°Irene, please know that you cane to me if you ever need my help. As for Moneypenny, he¡¯s chosen to return even if he could have escaped, and has been very frank with me since- my punishment would therefore be light, but what do you think?¡± Irene would naturally not tell Henry what to do. She certainly had grievance against Moneypenny, but he had been coerced like herself, and holding it against him would just make her a petty person. It would not help her out of her current dilemma either. ¡°Just deal with him however you see fit. I¡¯m leaving.¡± As she strode out of the manor, Henry called out, ¡°I was wrong about you.¡± But such words did not matter to her now¨Cshe waved, gesturing that she did not mind it, and stepped out of the front door. She wanted to return to Spencer Mansion, but remembered that she still had some possessions left at Isaac¡¯s mansion, so she headed there instead. When she entered, she found a suitcase ced right outside the door. Mrs. Watson did not throw her things all over the ce, and instead packed everything tidily into that suitcase.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. When she saw Irene return, she stepped out of the mansion and greeted her. ¡°Mrs. Jefferson¡­¡± She appeared hesitant to speak, and seeing that, Irene asked, ¡°My stuff is inside, right?¡± Mrs. Watson sighed and nodded. ¡°Isaac told you to do this?¡± Irene knew how nice Mrs. Watson was to her¨Cshe would never throw away her belongings. Mrs. Watson nodded again. Irene sneered that man was truly heartless, and changed lovers as quickly as he changed clothes! He was just forcing himself on herst night, and he was now chasing her out of the mansion. She reared her head and said quietly, ¡°I understand.¡± ¡°Mrs. Jefferson¡­ What is it this time?¡± Mrs. Watson finally asked. ¡°Mrs. Watson, don¡¯t you think you¡¯re mistaken? I¡¯m no longer Mrs. Jefferson.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 180 The Runaway Groom Chapter 180 Chapter 180 Kathy was strutting as she walked toward them, her heels clicking in her wake as she passed a lunchbox to Mrs. Watson. ¡°I¡¯ve made this for Isaac. Take it inside.¡± When Mrs. Watson did not take it, she smiled, ¡°I¡¯ll be thedy of this house soon, Mrs. Watson. How will we get along when you¡¯re being this hostile now?¡± Mrs. Watson reluctantly took the lunchbox then, her face falling as she turned and headed inside the mansion. Once she left, Kathy¡¯s smile faded. ncing at the suitcase lined up against the wall, she then turned to Irene. ¡°I hope you never show up around Isaac after you leave. He must have gotten sick of you and told Mrs. Watson to throw away your things, didn¡¯t he?¡± Her words actually left Irene agitated. Yes, Isaac must have gotten sick of her and told Mrs. Watson to throw away her things, did he not? She reared her head with an impable smile just then. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be thest person thrown out of here, though. I hope you¡¯ll prove to be an evergreen and never get thrown out, Ms. York.¡± Kathy¡¯s face fell. ¡°Are you trying to jinx me?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not, but I should tell you that men are prone to change. Did you think he won¡¯t dump you just because he dumped me? What goes aroundes around, y¡¯know.¡± Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. With that, Irene giggled and pulled her suitcase along to the gates. Kathy bit her lip. ¡°What are you getting smug about?! You¡¯re being dumped!¡± Irene was not bothered to respond¨Ceven if Kathy thought that she had hit the jackpot, she would end up like Irene with a vtile man like Isaac. Also, she was only showing Kathy sympathy, and not getting smug. What was there to be smug about being dumped? She just did not want to be aughing stock, and retained what dignity she had left. Kathy was seething. ¡°Irene Spencer! Did you hear what I said?!¡± ¡°What?¡± Irene turned and asked. ¡°Don¡¯t ever show up around Isaac!¡± She snarled every word. ¡°Oh, sure.¡± Ireneughed. Her smile left Kathy sickened, and she snapped, ¡°You¡¯re being dumped, and you¡¯re stillughing? Are you even human?!¡± Irene simply pretended she never heard her and stopped a taxi, putting her suitcase in the trunk before leaving. As she returned to the Spencer mansion and dragged her suitcase through the front gates, 4- Sheryl came out to help her. ¡°You¡¯re moving out from Isaac Jefferson¡¯s mansion now?¡± Irene nodded, and her weary look left Sheryl with a heartache. ¡°Eat something before you get some sleep.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said, just so that Sheryl did not worry. Irene took a nap after a light meal, but she was not sleeping soundly, and woke up when she heard something. Rubbing and opening her eyes, she saw that it was Zachary te and Lulu Adams, and she sat up. ¡°Irene,¡± terrible.¡± Lulu said as she sat beside Irene and checked her face. ¡°Are you sake? You look Irene shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± ¡°Are you still mourning your father? My condolences.¡± Luluforted her. Irene smiled, but did not tell her about her current situation. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯m visiting to tell you that I¡¯ve bought a train ticket back to Sunny City today. I have to go back,¡± Lulu said then. Irene turned toward Zachary and asked, ¡°Splitting up again?¡® Lulu smiled bitterly. ¡°His mother won¡¯t ept me so soon. We need time to work on it, but I can¡¯t stay here either¨CI need to get back to work.¡± Irene understood where she wasing from. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll go to the station with you guys,¡± she said, but Lulu kept her on the couch. ¡°You don¡¯t look too well, so just stay home and rest. I just need Zachary to see me off.¡± Irene was certainly exhausted, and she smiled. ¡°True. And I¡¯m excess baggage when Zachary is around anyway.¡± Lulu gave her a good¨Cnatured smack. ¡°Oh, you.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 181 The Runaway Groom Chapter 181 Chapter 181 Irene smiled. After that, Zachary told her to get some proper rest before leaving with Lulu. However, Irene felt that she was no longer sleepy, though when she left to find Harvey, he had already arrived at Spencer Mansion. He was smiling and appeared spirited. Irene remained impassive, and asked curtly, ¡°When can I see my child?¡± ¡°Like I said, after our wedding. Now, which card do you prefer?¡± He had brought several wedding cards, each having different styles so that she could pick one she liked. Irene found the man¡¯s behavior bizarre just then¨Cshe insisted that she did not love him, and had only promised to marry him to save her child. Was he crazy? Picking an invite at a time like this? ¡°Just do whatever you like. You don¡¯t have to ask me about anything,¡± she said, nting herself on the couch. very ¡°Fine, that¡¯ll do,¡± Harvey replied. ¡°Once the invitations are prepared, I¡¯ll send the first one to Isaac Jefferson.¡± Irene was not in the mood to y around, and simply nestled on the couch. ¡°Are you sick?¡± Harvey walked up, but she sprang to her feet the instant he sat beside her. He raised a brow. ¡°Do you hate me that much?¡± Irene snorted. ¡°What do you think?¡± ¡°You should be trying to get used to me¨Cweren¡¯t we getting along just fine back in Sunny City?¡± Patting the spot beside himself, he said, ¡°Come on, sit here.¡± Irene sat opposite him. ¡°You don¡¯t have to go through such lengths. I could go with you to register our marriage right now.¡± ¡°No way,¡± Harvey chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll have a grand, shy wedding so that everyone will know you¡¯re mine. Anyway, I¡¯ve asked some foreign tailors to prepare your dress¨Cwhich do you prefer, a conservative one, or a modern one?¡± ¡°Whatever.¡± Irene could not stand his ramblings and had no interest in any of that. He could do anything he liked for all she cared¨Cshe just wanted her baby back. ¡°I get to decide everything? Come on, you have to work with me.¡± Irene was heading upstairs, and scowled at his words. ¡°Promising to marry you is already my limit. What more do you want?¡± Seeing that she was getting grumpy, Harvey did not push her. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t bother you.¡± He wanted to appear before Isaac with Irene to brag, but gave up since she was on the verge of snapping. ¡°Get some rest over the next few days. Just be my beautiful bride on the day of our wedding,¡± Harvey said as he rose to his feet. ¡°I¡¯ll be going now.¡± Irene wanted nothing less, but could not risk upsetting him for the sake of her child. ¡°Take care of my son.¡± Harvey grinned. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry.¡± Three dayster, Harvey brought his first wedding invitation to Isaac personally. He appeared spirited and strutting as he asked, ¡°Mr. Jefferson, you must be free this Saturday, yes?¡± Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Isaac was not even bothered to look his way. ¡°If that¡¯s all you have to say, you can leave.¡± There was no way that would happen because Harvey was there to brag. Pushing the invitation in front of Isaac, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll be marrying Irene Spencer. You¡¯ll be there, won¡¯t you?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 182 The Runaway Groom Chapter 182 Chapter 182 Isaac finally looked up from his work when he heard Irene¡¯s name. Harvey naturally became smug at that, and opened the envelope to Isaac so that he could see the photo enclosed inside and their name. ¡°See?¡± Isaac remained calm and unaffected. ¡°I dumped her. Take her with you all you want.¡± However, Harvey knew by now that lie was too good at pretending, and did not even mind his dissing. ¡°Of course you dumped her, and that¡¯s on you. I don¡¯t mind that she¡¯s been with other men, and she¡¯ll be mine from now on. For that, I have to thank you for letting go, but don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll give her some proper loving.¡± ¡°Get out!¡± Isaac snapped, scrawling a signature on the bottom of a document and throwing it aside. Harvey was grinning ear to ear at his response, as if challenging Isaac to hit him. ¡°It¡¯s this Saturday, Mr. Jefferson! Don¡¯t forget!¡± Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org. Isaac¡¯s lips curled up savagely as Harvey put down the invitation. ¡°See you there.¡± With that, he whistled a tune cheerfully and smugly left Isaac¡¯s office. The instant he was gone, Isaac¡¯s calm turned into rage! ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± he snarled through gritted teeth. So, she was pushing another woman to him so that she could marry Harvey Gooding?! Well done! He had kept telling himself that she did not deserve himself, but he was still upset once he knew that he was marrying another man. It felt as if something was stuck on his chest, suffocating him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± Kathy had just entered his office without knocking, but Isaac was already furious, and immediately snapped, ¡°Get out!¡± Startled, Kathy promptly closed the door¨Cher heart was racing, because it was the first time. she had seen him being that furious. Deciding that she should not try her luck just then, she turned to leave when Stan rushed toward Isaac¡¯s office. When he saw her, he asked, ¡°Did you make Mr. Jefferson upset?¡± Isaac had just called him¨Che sounded like he was ready to kill. Kathy shook her head. ¡°I was bringing a proposal, and he chased me out before I could What¡¯s wrong with him?¡± get in. ¡°How should I know?¡± Stan snorted¨Che was almost scared witless from Isaac¡¯s call. Taking a deep breath, he entered Isaac¡¯s office with a smile, asking gingerly, ¡°Mr. Jefferson?¡± ¡°Harass Harvey Gooding,¡± Isaac growled, heaving as he took off his necktie, threw it on his desk, and freed his cor. ¡°I don¡¯t care what you do¡ªjust make sure he¡¯s not having a good time.¡± ¡®Did Harvey upset him again?¡® Stan thought. ¡°He would have smartened up after we did it to him twice. We probably can¡¯t do anything to his company now¡­¡® Isaac looked up, his eyes shing like a dagger. ¡°You¡¯re really getting ipetent, aren¡¯t you? If you can¡¯t harass him at work, then find some other way!¡± Stan nodded. ¡°Understood.¡± ¡°Now get it done!¡± Isaac bellowed. He had never been this irritated¨Cit was almost killing him! His cor was clearly free, and he even took off two more buttons, but he somehow felt like he was still suffocating! He had never suffered so much over anything, but Irene left him a mess repeatedly, and he even stopped acting like himself. He hated himself being like that! Why did he have to get in a bad mood over that woman, who seemed not to have a conscience?! Did she deserve it?! Certainly not! He worked hard to breathe, attempting to calm himself. Stan had to pat himself on the chest after he left Isaac¡¯s office, having no idea what had gotten his goat. Did Harvey somehow upset him again? ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Mr. Hill?¡± Kathy asked¡ªshe had been waiting there for him, intent on finding out why Isaac was upset. The Runaway Groom Chapter 183 The Runaway Groom Chapter 183 Chapter 183 Even if Kathy appeared to be special to Isaac, Stan could not help frowning each time he heard her referring to him by his first name. Did she think she could lord over everyone already, saying Isaac¡¯s name like that at the office? For some reason, he could not bring himself to like her. ¡°He¡¯s always like that,¡± he tly replied, and strode away. Kathy, however, gave chase, ¡°Don¡¯t go, Mr. Hill. Do you think he¡¯d still be upset if I went in now?¡± ¡°You can try.¡± Stan smiled¨Che knew that Isaac was still furious, and anyone who went in would be bringing trouble on themselves. Still, Kathy was not that stupid. ¡°I think I¡¯ll wait¡­ I¡¯d just be getting into trouble if I went in now.¡± Stan snorted. ¡°Smart.¡± ¡°I just don¡¯t want Isaac to be angry.¡± She strode off. Isaac, however, was in a bad mood for the entire day since Harvey showed up! He could not focus at work, even making mistakes until he finally decided he was too distracted to work, and left early, canceling all appointments for the day as he returned to his mansion. The ce was just the same¨CMrs. Watson prepared his favorite food. It was just that Irene was no longer there. She was just one person and she had not even been there for a couple years, but Isaac had grown used to her presence and felt as if he lost so much. He found thatughable. ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± Mrs. Watson greeted him gingerly¨Chis temper had been terrible ever since Irene left, and she was constantly on her toes. ¡°What is it?¡± Isaac growled, taking off his jacket and taking a seat on the couch. Rubbing between his brows, he added, ¡°Give me a ss of water.¡± Mrs. Watson did, holding it up with both hands. Issac had a couple sips, and when he finally put it down, Mrs. Watson asked, ¡°What about the painting upstairs, sir?¡± Irene¡¯s possessions had been cleared away, leaving just the painting. Isaac¡¯s expression changed when he remembered it, but he quickly hid it. ¡°Cover it.¡± ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± ¡°No, nevermind,¡± Isaac growled, suddenly rising to his feet. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with it myself.¡± With that, he headed upstairs, though he was standing before it instead of covering it. He must admit that K was a good artist¨Cthey had given life to Irene in that portrait. He studied the person in the painting for a long while, as if she was right before him. Time flew, and it was soon Friday. Irene was busy with Spencer Holdings while taking drills. However, Samantha had spoiled Ricky too much and his grades were terrible, so Irene had to keep an eye on him so that he studied properly as well. He still stood a chance at the moment! She was entirely focused at work to protect what Lionel passed down to them, and hand over Spencer Holdings when he could stand on his own. She would not let Lionel down. Irene was driving Ricky home in the evening when they got a call, and Irene turned the car around. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Ricky asked when they arrived. ¡°One of our clients returned thest batch of goods we delivered,¡± a logistics supervisor answered. ¡°Is there a problem with the goods?¡± Irene asked. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°No, there isn¡¯t.¡± Ricky lost his calm and asked rather loudly, ¡°Then why are they returning the goods?¡± The supervisor appeared fidgeting but did not answer. Seeing that, Irene said mildly, ¡°You can tell us. We can¡¯t solve the issue if you don¡¯t.¡± ¡°Word has it that Isaac Jefferson was involved.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 184 The Runaway Groom Chapter 184 Chapter 184 ¡°Isaac Jefferson?¡± Ricky became indignant. ¡°Isn¡¯t he your husband, Irene? He even sent his assistant to help you, but he¡¯s suddenly harassing you?¡± ¡°That are you talking about, Ricky?¡± The supervisor appeared surprised. ¡°He¡¯s not married, let alone to your sister¡­¡± After all, Irene and Isaac¡¯s marriage was not publicly known, and not many people knew about it. Less important people like the logistics supervisor here were certainly not privy. Irene smiled. ¡°Ricky just got a little drunk. Don¡¯t listen to him.¡± With that, she started dragging Ricky to her office while telling the supervisor to leave work for now. ¡°We wille up with something tomorrow.¡± ¡°Oh, okay.¡± The supervisor thought nothing of it, presuming that Ricky was really drunk. ¡°Irene.¡± Ricky frowned. ¡°Why are you dragging me? And you did marry Isaac¡ª¡± ¡°Ricky.¡± Irene cut him short. ¡°We¡¯re divorced, so don¡¯t ever mention that to anyone.¡± ¡°When?¡± Ricky gaped. ¡°Is he abandoning his son too?¡± ¡°He doesn¡¯t know that Tommy is his,¡± Irene exined. ¡°You have to keep it a secret too.¡± Ricky appeared taken aback. ¡°What, did you think I¡¯d break my promise and tell Isaac about Tommy?¡± ¡°Ricky, we share a father, even if he¡¯s gone now and we had different mothers. That makes you my brother, and that will never change. I hope you deserve my full trust.¡± Irene had been doing her best to bridge the rtionship between herself and Ricky for a while now, and hoped that he would not disappoint her. Ricky pursed his lips and lowered his gaze, as she continued, ¡°I¡¯lle up with something. Don¡¯t worry.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Ricky replied. Ireen sat behind her desk, knowing then that Isaac was up to no good. Did he want her to suffer? Or perhaps he wanted her to go to him, crying for forgiveness? She would do neither, let alone try to cajole him. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. Resting her chin on her hands, she wondered what she should do about the returned goods. It basically meant losing capital! She then checked the time. Since it was not at allte, she called Harvey. Harvey was actually surprised that she called. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d call me first¨CI was just about to do it myself. It seems that we¡¯re really meant for each other.¡± Irene was not in the mood. ¡°Did you tell Isaac we¡¯re getting married?¡± ¡°I personally sent the invitation too. What, is he harassing you? Where are you now? I¡¯lle. ¡°You don¡¯t have to, and he¡¯s not harassing me. He just gave me a little issue at work¡­ Wait, he¡¯s not harassing you?¡± Given Isaac¡¯s temper, both of them should be suffering right about now. Harvey chuckled. ¡°He got me twice before, but I¡¯m fully prepared this time. There¡¯s no way he can mess with me aside from causing minor annoyances.¡± ¡°Hold on, is that concern I¡¯m hearing?¡± he suddenly asked. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood for that. It¡¯s just a question.¡± ¡°Well, is he bothering you? Do you need help?¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied, and hung up. She had alreadye up with a solution, and dialed Ricky¡¯s number. ¡°Ricky, can you approach inte celebrities? Let¡¯s ask them to help retail the returned goods ourselves instead of selling it wholesale.¡± Ricky had been gloomy over the issue, and became spirited immediately. ¡°Right! Wholesale prices are low anyway, but we¡¯ll earn more on retail even after paying the celebritiesmission! That said, it¡¯s a lot of goods¡­ when could we sell everything off?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 185 The Runaway Groom Chapter 185 Chapter 185 Irene had made up her mind. ¡°It won¡¯t take that long. Livestream promotions are all the rage these days, and that¡¯s why we¡¯re going the route of viral marketing.¡± ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll make the call,¡± Ricky replied. ¡°Good.¡± Irene hung up but did not leave immediately. Instead, she asked several trustworthy employees to move the returned goods out of the warehouses. Since Isaac wanted to bully her, he had the money and influence to make it an issue as well if he were to find out that she was using viral marketing for retail. That was why she must do things quietly. It was daybreak when everything was done, but just as she returned to Spencer Mansion to rest, Harvey¡¯s makeup artist had arrived. She pressed Irene on a chair, and started to do her bridal makeup. Her eyelids weighed a ton¨Cshe could fall asleep right then. Ricky poured her a coffee and pulled out a chair to sit beside her. ¡°Irene¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t ask. You have more important things to do,¡± she said as she turned toward him. ¡°You have free rein on this issue, and sign the agreement if the revenue distribution is right. But remember to keep everything a secret¨Cif anyone in thepany asks, I¡¯m still thinking.¡± ¡°Why are we keeping it from our own people?¡± Ricky was actually confused by the need for secrecy. ¡°To prevent others from messing up our ns,¡± Irene replied. Ricky understood right then. ¡°You¡¯re worried that they would find out and sabotage us again.¡± ¡°Well, now you know. Get it done.¡± ¡°Irene¡­¡± Ricky appeared hesitant, but eventually mustered her courage and asked, ¡°Is there really no other way to save Tommy? You don¡¯t like Harvey Gooding¨Cyou won¡¯t be happy marrying him.¡± Irene stared at her reflection in the mirror, spacing out for an instant. Still, she smiled, ¡°Happiness doesn¡¯t matter. I want Tommy safe, and I¡¯m not interested in rtionships anyway even if I didn¡¯t marry him. Right now, I just want everything to go well at Spencer Holdings, so don¡¯t worry about me. Now hurry off and do what you have to¨Cthat cannot wait.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Ricky got up and left, while Irene asked someone to bring her a pillow, allowing her to slouch. Isaac was sitting on a chair before a curtain wall, the curtains nearby half closed and allowing some light to spill in, illuminating his face as he stared at Irene¡¯s portrait. After sabotaging Irene¡¯spany, he was waiting for her toe to him, begging. Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. And yet, it was already half¨Cpast seven on Saturday, but she was noting. Was she really marrying Harvey Gooding?! He had never felt this annoyed! Suddenly, he sprang to his feet, seemingly abandoning dignity as he went looking for her. Arriving at Spencer Mansion, he found that she had already put on her wedding dress, with several assistants adjusting the train. The wedding dress was a perfect fit to her figure, hugging it and presenting the stunning curves of her body! He certainly had to admit that she was beautiful in that dress. Standing at the front door, he demanded, ¡°Yourpany is in trouble, but you¡¯re ignoring it to get married?!¡± Irene turned toward the voice, and was surprised to see him there. Still, she smiled brightly and dazzlingly. ¡°Harvey¡¯s rich. He can support me even if Spencer Holdings falls.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 186 The Runaway Groom Chapter 186 Chapter 186 Isaac¡¯s expression turned icy, and the air around him seemed to cool as well. ¡°Irene Spencer! Did you really think Harvey Gooding loves you? Don¡¯t forget that you were married to me, and consummated- ¡°Isaac Jefferson!¡± Irene snapped, cutting him short. ¡°What, can¡¯t take it already?¡± Isaac mocked, holding out a hand to her. ¡°You can still walk away with me now.¡± Irene wasughing despite her indignation. ¡°You were the one who demanded a divorce, and it has been finalized. Also, aren¡¯t you with Kathy York? Are you sure she won¡¯t get jealous that you¡¯re here? Oh, and I also heard that you gave her your most prized possession¨CI guess you really love her, congrattions!¡± ¡°I¡¯m just returning that thing to its owner,¡± Isaac replied without thinking. Irene raised her brow. ¡°So it¡¯s hers. I guess you two really go a long way back.¡± Isaac pursed his lips but could not deny it, since she was the one who saved him as a child, or he would not have rehired her¨Ceven if his grandfather had asked. ¡°My husband will being to get me soon. Please leave.¡± Irene was exhausted, but was somehow pleased that Isaac came. Isaac held out a hand again, his tonemanding now. ¡°Come with me.¡± Irene pped his hand away unceremoniously. ¡°I¡¯m getting married to Harvey. Go to Kathy, so that we won¡¯t be a part of each other¡¯s lives again.¡± ¡°But I want to,¡± Isaac said and walked up, putting one arm around Irene¡¯s waist and pulling her firmly into his embrace. Even as he restrained her, he greedily admired her beautiful visage and growled, ¡°Are you so bent on marrying?¡± ¡°Yes, I am!¡± With that, she turned, her curledshes brushing lightly against his cheeks. ¡°If you¡¯re here to give me your blessing, I gratefully ept it¨Cif you¡¯re just here to insult me, please leave.¡± ¡°Mr. Jefferson!¡± Harvey was suddenly striding in through the front door, grinning ear¨Cto¨Cear. ¡°Thanks foring, but the way you¡¯re touching my wife is impolite. Surely a man with a reputation to uphold like you wouldn¡¯t want people to talk?¡± Isaac¡¯s hand, however, was tightening around Irene¡¯s waist. He leaned in then and whispered beside her ear, ¡°Are you really marrying him?¡± ¡°Yes!¡± Irene eximed as she pushed him firmly away. Isaac stumbled backward raggedly, appearing calm, but he was restraining his rage. ¡°Are you sure you won¡¯t regret this?¡± Irene reared her chin. ¡°N¨CNo.¡± Even if she had been forced, the thought that Isaac was already hooking up with Kathy left her repulsed. If he was allowed to have another woman, she could marry another man! Even if she was trying to get even, she was hardly impulsive¨Cshe could not stand Isaac and Kathy. ¡°You will regret this, Isaac Jefferson,¡± Irene said as she nonchntly straightened her gown which was not actually messed up. Isaac¡¯s ego was gnawing, but he refused to yield. ¡°I will regret?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Irene replied curtly. ¡°Dream on, Irene Spencer. Plenty of fish in the sea.¡± With those words, he strode off, but anyone looking closely would see a vein throbbing over his temples¨Che was not as calm as he looked. Irene remained impassive, not particrly pleased after he left. Harvey, on the other hand, was thrilled. ¡°I guess you really are splitting up with him.¡± Irene gave him a look. ¡°Does it please you?¡± ¡°Anything that upsets him pleases me,¡± Harvey admitted. Irene snorted. ¡°Does he look upset to you? He already has a new woman and is beside himself with joy, unlike you¡­¡± ¡°Unlike me? How?¡± Harvey asked. Raising a brow, she said, ¡°I¡¯m his ex¨Cwife, but you somehow act as if you¡¯ve won, picking up his rejects.¡± ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Harvey frowned. ¡°You¡¯re being mean to yourself too.¡± Irene did not care, however¨Cright now, she did not care what happened to her, as long as what she cared about was safe. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°I know you did all this to annoy Isaac Jefferson, so could we hurry along your so¨Ccalled wedding since you got what you want? I¡¯ve promised to marry you, but if you want me to go through all the motions of a real wedding, I refuse.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 187 The Runaway Groom Chapter 187 Chapter 187 ¡°But we¡¯re having a real wedding here. What¡¯s fake about it? We¡¯ll get our marriage certificate after as well.¡± Harvey had never considered that any of this fake¨Che wanted Irene, and upsetting Isaac was just a bonus. Still, he would not push Irene too far. ¡°It¡¯s a simple wedding anyway, and would be over before you know it. I don¡¯t mind going along with any requests either¡­¡± Irene gave him a look but said nothing. ¡°We¡¯rete. Shall we?¡± Harvey asked. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said simply. The wedding was neither lively nor joyous¡ªonly Harvey himself was pleased about it. There was nothing to dilly¨Cdally about at this stage. Still, she could see her child soon when the wedding was over. As she stepped out of the door, Sheryl Harris came downstairs. She did not want to see her own daughter marry someone she did not love, but could not helping downstairs when she saw her leaving in a wedding dress. ¡°Irene¡­.¡± Irene turned and smiled at her. ¡°I¡¯m getting married, Mom. Please be happy for me.¡± There was no way Sheryl would be¡ªit was a miracle that she was not crying. Harvey put a hand around Irene¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll be nice to her, ma¡¯am.¡± Sheryl was not about to believe him¨Che had kidnapped an infant and forced this wedding in the first ce! Was his definition of nice forcing Irene to marry him when there was no love there? How was that nice? Also, this was basically his second time holding Irene against her will. There was no way Sheryl would believe anything he said. Irene forced a smile so that Sheryl did not have to worry, ¡°Just watch the house for me, okay?¡± With that, she turned toward Harvey. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Harvey walked up to her and quietly said, ¡°Just trust me this one time.¡± Irene pushed him away right then. ¡°You don¡¯t deserve my trust the instant you kidnapped Tommy.¡± Even as Harvey stared gloomily from behind, she strode towards a Rolls¨CRoyce Phantom, which was decorated borately with flowers and looked the part of a bridal carriage. It looked like a wedding to Irene too, but it just seemed to not be hers. Getting into the car, Harvey asked her, ¡°Are you upset?¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied, but she clearly looked annoyed. ¡°It¡¯s our wedding day, so look happy,¡± Harvey said as he sat beside her. Irene frowned. ¡°I agreed to marry you, but don¡¯t you dare think that there¡¯s anything real between us.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Harvey was unaffected, because he was convinced that feelings could grow. And with them staying together, they would have all the chance to groom it. Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. He was certainly confident about that. Nheless, as the Phantom drove on steadily along the highway, several armored Hummers suddenly came charging from the opposite end, clearly targeting the Phantom and crashing straight into it. However, the Phantom was certainly worth the money¨Cit was a violent crash that actually dented the hood, but everyone inside was safe. But immediately after they stopped, several men got out of the Hummers and barged into the car, and started to make a grab for Irene. ¡°Who are you people?!¡± Harvey promptly moved in front of her! The Runaway Groom Chapter 188 The Runaway Groom Chapter 188 Chapter 188 Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org. Although Harvey looked masculine as he shielded Irene, he had always led an easy life and had never been in a fight. The men from the Hummers, however, were all as burly as they were strong, easily dragging him out of their way! While grabbing Irene would have been an easy task after that, Irene had grabbed on to the car door and refused to get out. ¡°Who are you people?!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t ask. Juste quietly, and we won¡¯t hurt you¨Cresist, and we will have to resort to violence.¡± The men¡¯s faces were stiff and impassive. Naturally, Irene refused to let go since she had no idea where they came from, or who she had offended enough to send them! ¡°What do you think you are doing?!¡± Harvey was losing his temper¨Cone of the men had restrained him, but none of the others were being violent, and it was clear that they were only after Irene. ¡°Don¡¯t bother,¡± the man restraining him then told his friends, ¡°take him away and be quick. Don¡¯t leave any traces either.¡± With that, Irene was dragged away from the Phantom and stuffed inside one of the Hummers. Through it all, Harvey could only watch. He could not do a thing as his bride was stolen during his own wedding. Who could be behind this?! The men moved as one, too¨Conce they got Irene, the man restraining Harvey released him and left with the others. ¡°After them!¡± Harvey quickly bellowed at his men, but he had no one but himself to vent. Moreover, it was toote when his men came to their senses¨Cthe Hummer convoy had also clearly been prepared to intercept Harvey¡¯s car in the first ce, making any effort to pursue futile. Naturally, his wedding had to be called off in the absence of a bride, and the guests were all wondering what had happened. Even so, Harvey did not even care what they were saying, and left the mess to his assistant while he and his men tracked down Irene. However, the Hummers seemed to have left the city and there was no trace of them since, which meant it was a dud for Harvey. He then headed to Spencer Mansion and spoke to Ricky, asking if Irene recently had a beef with anyone. ¡°No, but¡­¡± Ricky paused. ¡°But, what?¡± Harvey pressed urgently. ¡°If there is one person I had to name, wouldn¡¯t that be you?¡± Harvey was speechless for a moment, but quickly said, ¡°Look, I may have demanded that she marry me, but I¡¯ve never hurt her¡­¡± Ricky cut him short. ¡°Forcing her to marry you is hurting her.¡± That left Harvey speechless again. Forcing her to marry him when there was no love involved was certainly immoral! Still, this was not the time for that¨Cfinding Irene took priority. ¡°You lost her, so look for her yourself.¡± Ricky appeared unconcerned, however he was only concerned with doing what Irene bade him to do before at the moment. Harvey snorted, knowing right then that he had approached the wrong person. ¡°You may be step¨C siblings, but she¡¯s still your sister. You call yourself family, showing no concern when she¡¯s taken away?¡± ¡°She¡¯s basically your wife, and you¡¯ve failed to protect her,¡± Ricky promptly retorted. ¡°You took her out of this mansion too¨Cshouldn¡¯t I be asking you where she is now?!¡± Harvey was left speechless, and turned to leave¡ªhe had no clue where Irene had been taken to, and instead got dissed endlessly! Ricky then added relentlessly, ¡°You lost her, so you¡¯d better get her back unscathed. I¡¯ll hold it against you if she¡¯s hurt.¡± Harvey honestly did not mean to hurt her this time¨Che just wanted to marry Irene, and had even hired a professional babysitter to care for her son. ¡°You don¡¯t have to go that far,¡± he growled as he strode off. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best.¡± After he left, however, worry finally showed on Ricky¡¯s face¨Che was as puzzled as he was anxious. The Runaway Groom Chapter 189 The Runaway Groom Chapter 189 Chapter 189 Ricky believed that Irene was very smart, and that her actions were governed by rules and reason. Could this whole thing be her ploy? To stage her own abduction after leaving Spencer Mansion, so that she did not draw suspicion on either Ricky or Sheryl? Did she only pretend to agree to marry Harvey? The more he thought about it, the more Ricky thought it was likely! ¦° On the other hand, Harvey was racking his brains in his car after he left Spencer Mansion. Who would want to abduct Irene? However, just as he was at wit¡¯s end, Isaac¡¯s name came to mind. ¡°It must be him!¡± Harvey eximed, gaping and smacking himself on hisp. Why did he only remember that now? After all, that man certainly had the power to prevent him from finding out anything. In fact, who else could? Havinge to a conclusion, he drove off to Light Group¡¯s office building to recover his bride, arriving in just half an hour. He stormed inside furiously, pushing away the front desk receptionists who tried to stop him! He took an elevator straight to the top floor and strode toward Isaac¡¯s office, pushing open the heavy doors with a loud bang. ¡°Isaac Jefferson!¡± he bellowed as he charged toward Isaac¡¯s desk. ¡°You give me back my bride! Isaac raised a brow. ¡°She¡¯s your bride, isn¡¯t she? Why are you asking me? Had too much to drink?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t bother pretending. I know you took her! No one else would have done that!¡± Harvey was almost hopping from utter frustration. ¡°Do you have any evidence?¡± Isaac asked nonchntly. Harvey was stumped right then¨Che certainly had no proof. It was just his hunch! ¡°I guess you don¡¯t.¡± Isaac rose to his feet. ¡°Debbie, call security to escort Mr. Gooding out of the building.¡± The way he said escort was certainly hostile, while Harvey¡¯s face turned green. ¡°You¡¯re despicable, Isaac Jefferson!¡± Isaac gave him a look of disdain but thought nothing of it, while security soon arrived. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Harvey¡¯s teeth were gnashing, but he had to give in because he was in Isaac¡¯s territory. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely find evidence that you took her,¡± he growled and pushed the security guards who were in his way, cursing at them, ¡°Fuck off.¡± Stan arrived at the door just as he was about to leave, and Harvey shot him a look and snorted. Stan took no offense¨Cit was no skin off his back, and he had work to do. After everyone else left, Stan closed the door and told Isaac, ¡°It¡¯s done.¡± ¡°Got it,¡± Isaac replied. Stan hesitated then, but eventually asked, ¡°I don¡¯t get it, sir. What is the point here?¡± If Isaac really did not care about Irene and was into Kathy now, why would he abduct her on the way to her wedding? ¡°Do you actually care about Irene Spencer, but were just upset that she tried to push Kathy York to you by drugging you?¡± Stan certainly could not repress his impulse to gossip! The Runaway Groom Chapter 190 The Runaway Groom Chapter 190 Chapter 190 Isaac looked up at Stan just then, but did not deny it! As Stan came to a realization, he carefully suggested, ¡°Sir, you shouldn¡¯t have rehired Kathy York in that case. Women are petty, and Ms. Spencer must have been upset to see her around. That¡¯s not going to work in a rtionship.¡± Isaac snorted. ¡°A rtionship? After she pushed me away to another woman?¡± Stan was stumped, but it was true¨Cif Irene really was in love with Isaac, she would not be able to bear her man getting cozy with other women. People get territorial in rtionships, after all. No one would be willing to share their partner if there is love involved! ¡°Well, if she¡¯s not interested, you can just let her marry Harvey Gooding. Nothing goodes out of coercion, and you¡¯re not going to keep her confined for life, are you?¡± Isaac¡¯s visage turned cold. ¡°I will not let her be with another man even if she¡¯s not interested.¡± Stan was speechless. Did he just basically say ¡®if I can¡¯t have her, no one can?¡® How much more unreasonable could he get? While he actually felt sympathy for Irene, he also found her tactless. How lucky was she to have Isaac falling for her? And he had been tolerating her so much. How could she not see it? ¡°There¡¯s nothing about Harvey Gooding that¡¯s better than you. What does she see in him?¡± Stan asked in confusion. ¡°She¡¯s just blind.¡± Isaac snorted. Stan blinked, but Isaac was right! ¡°Are you going to see her?¡± Stan asked. ¡°No. What time does the meeting start?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°Half¨Cpast one,¡± Stan replied. ¡°Go get ready,¡± Isaac said, his tone remaining t and inscrutable. Once Stan stepped out of his office, Kathy had just arrived. ¡°Mr. Hill.¡± She smiled. ¡°Why are you here?¡± Stan asked. ¡°I¡¯m looking for Isaac,¡± she said, still smiling pleasantly. For some reason, Stan was uneasy whenever she said ¡®Isaac.¡® He somehow found her rather unreserved and danced on the edge of slutty! He found women like her who threw themselves at men unlikeable¨Cthey were unlikeable and had no charm at all. The only reason Isaac did not kick her to the curb like other women was probably because of the silver crucifix. He remembered that it was very precious to Isaac, but Isaac said that he was returning it to the owner when he gave it to Kathy. If anything, his tolerance toward her was only thanks to that object. He sighed Isaac usually steered clear of women, but there were suddenly two in his life! And it was clear that Kathy loved Isaac, but Isaac loved Irene. What aplicated web of rtionships! ¡°Go on in,¡± Stan said and left. Kathy did not go in immediately, however. She checked her makeup with a mirror, ensuring that she looked impable, and straightened her skirt before heading inside. ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± she greeted Isaac¨Cshe only used Isaac around everyone else so that they would get the impression that he and she were close. However, she would not use his first name personally¡­ Even when they were alone. Isaac remained impassive to her arrival¨Cin fact, he was a little cold. ¡°Is there a problem?¡± Kathy smiled. ¡°No, it¡¯s just that your grandfather is asking us to have dinner together at the manor. ¡°I¡¯m busy. You¡¯re on your own.¡± Isaac refused right then. Kathy was disappointed, but she was not giving up. ¡°But I¡¯ve asked Debbie. She said you¡¯re free tonight-¡± Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org. ¡°I hate it when others ask for my schedule.¡± Isaac glowered right then. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to,¡± Kathy quickly tried to exin. ¡°I was just asking- The Runaway Groom Chapter 191 The Runaway Groom Chapter 191 Chapter 191 ¡°I¡¯m busy. Get back to work,¡± Isaac snapped impatiently. Kathy, however, was still not giving up. ¡°Your grandfather is asking us to go. He¡¯s probably-¡± ¡°I will talk to him myself,¡± Isaac said and started to leave his office, heading to the conference room since he was reluctant to stay and talk to her. She quickly gave chase and asked, ¡°Why are you being so cold to me?¡± Isaac wheeled on her, frowning. ¡°What, giving you a job isn¡¯t enough? Am I supposed to take care of you for the rest of your life now?¡± Kathy was stumped for a moment, and she quickly exined, ¡°No¡­ I just heard from your grandfather that I saved you, and that¡¯s why you had my silver crucifix. I remember saving a drowning boy as a child, too¨Caren¡¯t you being a little cold to your savior?¡± ¡°Then what do you think I should do?¡± Isaac asked coolly in return, chuckling and dissing even before she could reply. ¡°I gave you a job for that, or is that not enough? What more do you want?¡± Kathy shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t want anything¡ª¡± ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then go back to work and don¡¯t stray out of line. Also, I¡¯ll have your department manager deliver necessary documents to me himself. You don¡¯t have to show up ever again.¡± Isaac was not showing her any mercy. The girl who saved him had been constantly on his mind, and he often dreamed about seeing those eyes of hers. Even so, Kathy was here right in front of him, but his heart waspletely unaffected¨Cthose past feelings seemedpletely nonexistent. After all, he knew that she had her motives, and keeping her now was mercy. On the other hand, Kathy¡¯s fair cheeks turned ashen and then darkened in an utterly horrid manner. How did she manage to lose way more than what she gained? Not only did she fail to bridge the gap between herself and Isaac, but he was now also basically sick of her! ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± Isaac, however, simply ignored her and strode off. Kathy was left standing there, her chest heaving and her body shaking from rage! Once inside the conference room, Isaac beckoned at Stan and quietly said, ¡°Transfer Kathy York to our branch.¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Stan was left taken aback. What could have gotten into him this time? And why did it seem like there was no end to all this drama? ¡°Did she offend you?¡± he asked, hoping for gossip. Isaac pursed his lips. ¡°What, are you really that interested in my private life? Perhaps we should sit down together, and I¡¯ll slowly tell you everything?¡± ¡°Haha,¡± Stan chuckled in fear. ¡°It¡¯s fine, sir. I will get it done right away.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s get started.¡± Isaac went ahead and took the main seat, not bothering to waste his breath! The meetingsted over two hours, and Isaac left work at five. He drove to Rose Garden, where he had a residence not many knew about. As he alighted, the security guard watching the door greeted him respectfully when they saw him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Isaac nodded. ¡°Did she cause trouble?¡± ¡°No, sir. We sedated her per Mr. Hill¡¯s instructions, and she¡¯s still out.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Isaac replied, and the security guard opened the door for him. Isaac entered and headed straight to Irene¡¯s room. Her hands and feet were tied, and red marks could be seen on her thin wrist¡ªit was necessary, since she might cause a mess upon waking up. Isaac walked up to her bed, and reached out to brush off the bangs covering her forehead. She was still in her wedding dress, and the massive trainy sprawled over the bed, while her dainty formy in the middle of the whiteness. ¡°Urgh¡­¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 192 The Runaway Groom Chapter 192 Chapter 192 Irene felt muddle¨Cheaded and almost conscious, but her eyelids felt too heavy for her to her eyes. She was vaguely struggling against the darkness, but soon groggily fell asleep again. Isaac breathed a sigh of relief at that she would not be this peaceful if she woke up. Still, the thought left him scowling, and her wedding dress was certainly an eyesore. open She looked so beautiful in that dress, but wore it to throw herself into another man¡¯s arms¡­ the very thought left his face ashen! This woman¡­! He hence started to rip off the wedding dress, unable to lean in to kiss her lips after ogling her naked form for a while, and pulled a nket over her. Dragging what remained of the wedding dress out of the room and closing the door behind him before leaving the house, he handed the torn dress to the security guard. ¡°Throw this.¡® ¡°Yes, sir.¡± The security guard promptly did so, while Isaac returned inside and took a shower, changed into fresh clothes andy down beside Irene. Lying on his side, he held her tightly in his arms, nuzzling her ears and greedily reveling in the sensation of having her in his arms. Night soon arrived, but he was sleeping soundly for once! He woke up early in the morning, and gave orders to stop Irene from leaving the room. Naturally, the security guards took his orders seriously! The peaceful scene at Rose Garden was a far cry from how things were with Harvey Gooding. Both Ricky Spencer and Sheryl Harris were knocking on his door, demanding that he returned Irene. Harvey¡¯s reaction was almost colorful. ¡°I¡¯m looking!¡± In fact, he had been doing that without food or rest over thest 24 hours! He was already flustered to have lost Irene! This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. And there was no one he could go to! ¡°You took her out of Spencer Mansion. You have to give her up!¡± Ricky said staunchly. The boy had matured considerably following Lionel Spencer¡¯s death and Samantha White¡¯s incarceration. With Irene¡¯s earnestness and trust, he had begun to slowly ept her. The intent for revenge he had been harboring at first was not as strong as before, for he realized that if they went for each other¡¯s necks as well, their family would be destroyed. And he would have no ce to go! As such, he began to ept Irene instead of goofing off, and did everything she told perfectly. He was no fool, even though he had made mistakes because of Samantha¡¯s excessive pampering and goading. His wits certainly proved sharp now that he had turned over a new leaf! Now, regardless of whether Irene had really been abducted or staged it so that she could escape, this was the best opportunity for them to take Tommy back. That was why he was here, working with Sheryl! ¡°I don¡¯t have her!¡± Harvey snapped. He had already been overwrought because of the whole incident. Ricky and Sheryl¡¯s visit was undoubtedly fuel to fire! ¡°Well, didn¡¯t you take Tommy too? If you won¡¯t give my daughter back, at least give my grandson back!¡± Sheryl retorted. ¡°No way!¡± Harveyughed icily. Without Tommy, he would have no leverage against Irene: If they somehow managed to find her, and she learned that her son had been returned to the Spencers, would she still marry him? Certainly not! Ricky shot him a re just then. ¡°You took my sister and her son, and refused to give them up. Do you think we¡¯re pushovers just because we don¡¯t have numbers?¡± However, despite his maturity, he was no match for Harvey, who had fought ferociously to survive many setbacks in business, and eclipsed the boy when it came to knowledge and experience. Calming down soon enough, he threatened, ¡°I don¡¯t mind giving up Tommy. Get me Irene, or I won¡¯t release that child!¡± Harvey certainly knew that the Spencers could not do anything as long as he refused to release Tommy¨Cthey would even help him look for her! The Runaway Groom Chapter 193 The Runaway Groom Chapter 193 Chapter 193 Ricky bellowed furiously, ¡°You lost my sister yourself, and you want us to help you?! You should be feeling lucky that we¡¯re not calling the cops on you!¡± Harvey, however, calmly replied, ¡°Believe it or not, Irene has been taken away from me. Help me look if you want Tommy back, and I¡¯m not returning the boy until she¡¯s found. I have no leads or evidence here, but I have a feeling it¡¯s Isaac Jefferson. If you can get something out of you think?¡± that man, I¡¯ll return Tommy to you inmediately once I recover Irene. What do ¡°Do you really think Irene would fall for you, coercing like that?!¡± Sheryl snapped at him. She¡¯s a mother, and she was just marrying you to keep Tommy safe. She hated you the instant you took him from her!¡± Harvey, however, did not care¡ªhe had already thought of that! And he learned that the end justifies the means¡­ from Isaac Jefferson himself! ¡°I¡¯m going to keep looking,¡± he said, and called in his men. ¡°Get them out of here!¡± ¡± Ricky and Sheryl were walking out of his mansion right then, with Ricky yelling, ¡°Is stealing kids all you can do?! You¡¯ll pay for this!¡± Harveypletely ignored whatever he said, let alone took it to heart. ¡°That¡¯s enough, you¡¯re just wasting your breath,¡± Sheryl said, tugging at the boy¡¯s sleeves. ¡°It doesn¡¯t mean a thing to a heartless man like him. Being yelled at was the least of his concerns when he decided to kidnap Tommy.¡± ¡°Just using the opportunity to vent a little,¡± Ricky replied¨Che certainly knew that. Sheryl was suddenly left staring at him. Without Irene around, the son of the woman she hated most was now staying with her¨Cand helping. Truly, one never knows what tomorrow holds!!! ¡°So, do you think Irene ran away on her own?¡± Sheryl asked just then. ¡°I actually thought so too¡­¡± Ricky replied¡ªboth because he really thought so, and to assure Sheryl in a way. After all, Sheryl would be very worried if it turned out that Irene was really taken that would do him no good! away, and Moreover, things were already getting restless at Spencer Holdings in Irene¡¯s absence. If he and Sheryl were to mess up now, their family would fall apart! ¡°Do you think we should talk to Isaac Jefferson?¡± Sheryl proposed. After all, she was genuinely concerned that Irene woulde to harm. While Tommy was still in Harvey¡¯s custody, the baby would not be in danger because Harvey¡¯s goal was to marry Irene. ¡°I¡¯lle with you.¡± Ricky agreed. Sheryl nodded, and they took a taxi to Light Group, and they both alighted downstairs. 1/2 Ricky did not dare to drive ever since getting into that traffic ident before, and would usually take a taxi¨Cfortunately, it was convenient to do so these days. Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. On the other hand, Sheryl was gasping at the grand view of the Light Group headquarters. She knew that she was nothing inparison to Isaac, but she had to find out if he had taken Irene away. However, just as they were about to go in, they found a woman standing at the door, stopping a car heading inside the underground car park! It was Kathy. She lost her mind the instant Stan informed her that she was transferring to theirpany¡¯s branch. There was no chance of seeing isaac there, and how could their rtionship bloom without contact?! That was why she had been waiting early in the morning outside the building, and did not hesitate to stop Isaac¡¯s car when she spotted it. ¡°Why?¡± she cried, tears welling in her eyes. Isaac frowned but did not get out of his car, and contacted security immediately to take her away. However, she was crying a fit and grabbed hold of the car bumper, refusing to let go. Naturally, Sheryl and Ricky were both nearby and saw everything. ¡°Isaac really messes around with thedies, doesn¡¯t he?¡± Ricky muttered, raising a brow. ¡°It¡¯s not surprising that Irene would divorce him!¡± Sheryl gave him a look and said, ¡°We can go now.¡± ¡°What? Why?¡± Ricky was confused¨Cthey were already here, but they were leaving without questioning Isaac? The Runaway Groom Chapter 194 The Runaway Groom Chapter 194 Chapter 194 ¡°Well, as you can see for yourself¨Che¡¯s busy messing around with women,¡± Sheryl exined. ¡°Would he spare the time to abduct Irene? Maybe you¡¯re right, and she¡¯s on the run.¡± Sheryl was confident that she knew men. In fact, after marrying Lionel and being betrayed by his adulterous behavior, she came to the conclusion that all men were pigs. And with a man like Isaac who could get any woman he wanted¡­ Would he even bother stopping Irene¡¯s car and abducting her? If there was actual affection involved, why did they get a divorce? If they were really in love, would Irene hide Tommy from him? It was obvious that like Lionel, Isaac did not have a heart, leaving Irene disenchanted enough that she could agree to marry Harvey just to protect Tommy¡­ That actually reminded Sheryl of something else just then. ¡°Wait! Irene wouldn¡¯t have abandoned Tommy to run away alone!¡± she eximed. ¡°Maybe she wants to get away first, and then try to rescue Tommy after?¡± Ricky suggested. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Sheryl considered that, and it actually sounded reasonable. ¡°So¡­ Are we heading back?¡± Ricky asked. Sheryl nodded. ¡°Yeah. Even if there¡¯s a chance it¡¯s him, it¡¯s not like he would admit it even if we asked.¡± ¡°Yeah, I agree,¡± Ricky replied, and they took a taxi home. ¡°You should go to Spencer Holdings and hold down the fort. Let¡¯s wait for now¨Cif Irene really ran away, she¡¯ll contact us eventually,¡± Sheryl said. Ricky nodded, giving Sheryl a look just then. She had no intention of meddling withpany affairs, and seemed to fully trust him. He became less wary of her just then. Meanwhile, Isaac waspletely unaware that Sheryl and Ricky had seen everything. Kathy was hysterical and a lot less reasonable than usual, because this meant that thing would not progress between her and Isaac. She certainly could not ept it, but the more hysterical she became, the more guarded Isaac was. He would never have known if he did notpare them, but Irene was so much calmer. In fact, she was capable of being so calm that Isaac felt helpless when he remembered that. Could she not be a little less tenacious? Would it hurt to be a little more docile? It was as if she could not stop upsetting him! Remembering his own vulnerability, he wound down the car window and snapped at the security guards, ¡°Can¡¯t you do your jobs already?!¡± It was not as if the security guards were failing¨Cthey simply presumed that Kathy was just having a lover¡¯s quarrel with argument, and therefore did not dare to be rough with her. Naturally, they felt no qualms once Isaac had spoken and firmly pried her away from his car, leaving her with cuts on her fingers! With that, Isaac jammed his foot on the gas pedal, and his car bounded down into the basement parking lot without pause. Kathy was left staring as he left, her tears gushing out. Biting her lip, she then snapped at the security guards who were still restraining her, ¡°Let go of me!¡± The security guards did so¨CIsaac was already gone anyway. Still, her clothes were now a mess and she looked utterly miserable, but more than that, she was indignant! She knew that only Henry Jefferson would help her now. Wiping her tears, she drove straight to Jefferson Manor. The Runaway Groom Chapter 195 The Runaway Groom Chapter 195 Chapter 195 Over thest few days, Henry had been sulking. Although Moneypenny had voluntarily apologized and admitted to what he did, he had been coerced and actually deserved sympathy. However, Henry still allowed himself to be talked into splitting up Irene and Isaac¡¯s marriage! He had wanted someone to take care of Isaac, to give him a woman who can offer him a family Only for everything to end up a mess! He did not even want to imagine how Isaac would react once he found out that he and Moneypenny had a hand in his divorce, along with the kidnapping of his son! What respect and kinship he held would vaporize, would it not? ¡°Honestly, what should I do now?¡± It was not as if Henry had gotten senile¨CMoneypenny had spent of his life serving him and more than proved his loyalty. He was not about to send him to the gallows over one mistake! ¡°Sir.¡± Moneypenny bowed reverently then. ¡°Perhaps I should confess to Master Isaac¡­¡± ¡°Forget it. Do you think you¡¯d live with that temper of his? And with your withered body?¡± Henry snorted. ¡°What has happened has happened¨Clet there be no next time.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sir. There won¡¯t be,¡± Moneypenny promised. ¡°So, any leads on Irene Spencer?¡± Henry asked. He was aware that Irene had been abducted on her way to get married too. ¡°No, sir. It¡¯s an absolute mystery,¡± Moneypenny said, shaking his head. ¡°The culprits left no traces at all, and I could not find out who they were at all!¡± ¡°Do you think it¡¯s Isaac?¡± Henry mused. Moneypenny considered it. ¡°He does have feelings for her, but does he desire her so much that he doesn¡¯t care if she was marrying someone else, and would take her even if it meant crashing a wedding?¡± ¡°Indeed. They were married for little over a year, and Irene had been missing for months as well. Even if he loves her, his feelings would not be that strong,¡± Henry guessed. ¡°That¡¯s true. You know Master Isaac, and given how rational he can be, he would not get this obsessed over a woman,¡± Moneypenny concluded. Henry thought about that a while, and decided that Moneypenny was being reasonable. He had never seen Isaac resort to outrageous behavior over any woman thus far! ¡°That said, I find Ms. Spencer a little too headstrong if we want someone who can take care of Master Isaac. Won¡¯t you agree?¡± Moneypenny said just then. Henry narrowed his eyes. they?¡± ¡°She¡¯s a doctor. And mostdies these days are the same, aren¡¯t Moneypenny shook his head. ¡°Won¡¯t you agree that Kathy is more controble?¡± ¡°I know you¡¯re trying to get me to pick Kathy York, but you¡¯ve seen for yourselfst night- Isaac didn¡¯t even bother to show up at the dinner with her. You could tell right then how difficult it would be to get him to warm up to her,¡± Henry said. Even though he thought that he had made a mistake at first, now that he had really given it careful thought, he realized that he was worried about not seeing Isaac being with a person he loved, not to mention that he was old now. If he still could not understand love, he would be even colder and crueler after Henry¡¯s death! ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t think we need a woman with brains. She just has to love him and take care of him, and that¡¯s enough. Won¡¯t you agree?¡± Henry gave his butler a look. ¡°You want me to continue getting Isaac to warm up to Kathy?¡± ¡°You did agree to Mr. York¡¯s request to look after his granddaughter, and you suggested the coupling in the first ce. How would you exin to Mr. York that you¡¯re giving up halfway?¡± Pausing for a moment, Moneypenny continued, ¡°Moreover, is there anyone better suited than her at the moment?¡± ¡°Ahem-¡± Henry started coughing just then, and Moneypenny quickly brought a ss of water. ¡°Here, sir. Take your time.¡± Henry had a couple sips wet his throat, but it still hurts. ¡°Should I ask for Dr. te?¡± Moneypenny asked. Henry waved him off. ¡°No!¡± A servant suddenly entered the room. ¡°Sir, Ms. York is here.¡± Henry was just feeling irritated, and frowned. ¡°What is she doing here?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know, but she is having a crying fit¨Cmaybe she was somehow given grief?¡± the servant replied. Moneypenny quietly said, ¡°I will get her to leave¡­¡± Henry waved him off. ¡°Forget it. Let her in.¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Cedric York was a close friend of his and Kathy his only granddaughter. He could not bear to face Cedric if he could not even take care of her a little. ¡°Henry¡­¡± Kathy was sobbing, putting up a miserable look as she entered. ¡°What is it?¡± Henry asked, already feeling impatient inside! The Runaway Groom Chapter 196 The Runaway Groom Chapter 196 Chapter 196 Henry was already feeling ill and irritable, but he still had tofort Kathy as she continued her crying fit. That alone made Henry think less of her than Irene. Women could be delicate and their vulnerability might tug at the heartstrings of men, being exceedingly spoiled would get on anyone¡¯s nerves. but Henry was already feeling irritable, and he certainly did not have the patience tofort someone else! ¡°You told me you wanted me to get together with Isaac, right?¡± Kathy sobbed. Henry kept his patience as he told her, ¡°Sit.¡± At the same time, Moneypenny reminded her, ¡°Say what you have to, but no one would understand you if you cry louder than you speak.¡± Kathy nced between him and Henry just then. Even though Henry was not visibly angry, he was a lot less mild than usual. She was naturally smart enough to notice Moneypenny¡¯s kindness, and quickly stopped sobbing. Having ensured that she was calm, she said, ¡°Did you know? Isaac transferred me from the headquarters to a branch office! I won¡¯t be able to see him, let alone get him to warm up to me Henry was not actually surprised¨Cthat was Isaac¡¯s style. He then remembered that he had basically pushed Irene to Isaac as well, but she had nevere to him bawling like Kathy. In fact, she had neverined to Henry about any grievance she suffered, nor shed a tear even when Isaac made her bleed right here in this manor! He would never have been able to tell if he neverpared them, but once he did, it became apparent to him that Kathy was a far cry from Irene! Even if most men would agree that a woman with looks and a caring side was good enough, Isaac covered so many bases that he did not need someone that extraordinary¨Cbut a crybaby certainly would not do! Henry actually felt awkward just then. He was the one who had proposed the match in the first ce, and if he reneged now, he would have broken a promise to both Cedric and Kathy. And if she held a grudge¡­ What a dilemma! Moneypenny could tell what he was thinking, and hence thought of an idea. ¡°Ms. York, Master Jefferson has already assisted you plenty, even making you Master Isaac¡¯s savior. You should be using it to your advantage¡ªwhat do you think Master Jefferson can do even if you came crying to him? Tie Master Isaac to your bed?¡± Kathy flushed and lowered her head in embarrassment. At the same time, Henry nced at Moneypenny¨Chis wordscked tact, but Henry did not refute it. After all, it was almost reasonable: Kathy should being up with ideas of her own to make Isaac fall for her. How much could Henry help, when Isaac was already upset with him? ¡°How can I help?¡± he asked just then. Kathy certainly had no idea because even drugs failed to work on Isaac. What else could he do? Her womanly wiles? That would only work if they spent time together, so that he noticed her virtue! ¡°Could you stop Isaac from transferring me to the branch office? He¡¯ll definitely fall for me if I stay with him.¡± Kathy believed that she had the looks¨Cand while it was no lie, she also believed that Isaac would fall for her as long as she could stay around him! ¡°I don¡¯t think I can help you,¡± Henry said earnestly. ¡°You should be using your own advantage to the fullest.¡± Kathy was puzzled and mistakenly believed that he was talking about her looks. ¡°But he¡¯s not much of a gentleman-¡± Henry frowned even before she finished¨Cshe was a little stupid, was she not? Moneypenny had already told her outright, but she still could not get it. ¡°Isaac values sentiment. You are now the person who ¡®saved¡® him, aren¡¯t you? Learn to use that.¡± Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. Kathy vaguely understood, but said, ¡°He already chased me off¡­ How do I use that? He clearly doesn¡¯t care about me, even though I¡¯m supposed to be his savior.¡± Henry suddenly felt that speaking with her was tiring! He decided right then to just flip a coin, and that the position of Isaac¡¯s wife is up for grabs to anyone, as long as they had what it took! ?¡±? may have suggested setting you up with him, but you must have been interested in him in the first ce to agree to it, right?¡± He was just too old to care! The Runaway Groom Chapter 197 The Runaway Groom Chapter 197 Chapter 197 The more Henry tried to control Isaac, the more his grandson strayed away from him! Still, Kathy was smart enough to hear the ominous meaning in Henry¡¯s words. ¡°What do you mean, Henry? Are you giving up on me?¡± ¡°I¡¯m old now,¡± Henry sighed. ¡°There¡¯s a limit to how much I can help you. Whether you win Isaac¡¯s heart depends entirely on yourself, so you would have to make him fall for you, so that he willingly spends the rest of his life with you. Am I supposed to keep helping you if you keep running to me whenever there¡¯s an issue?¡± Kathy bit her lip miserably, even as Henry continued, ¡°Who knows? Your transfer might fall through if you had an ident or you got hurt on the way to the branch office. Try to buy time, and go on from there!¡± Henry could not have made himself clearer¨Cthe rest was up to Kathy. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I¡¯m tired. You should go.¡± Finally realizing that she hade at a bad time, Kathy said, ¡°Oh! I must have disturbed you¡­ I really came at a bad time. Please take care of your health, Henry. I promise to handle any problems on my own from now on.¡± Henry waved her off. ¡°Go.¡± He made sure that Kathy left the manor and was out of earshot before he finally spoke, ¡°Do you really think Isaac would be interested in her?¡® He certainly did no think so¡ªshe was too stupid! Kathy had all the advantages Irene never had, but somehow failed to use any, evening crying to him for help! He really wondered what had gotten into him to help her in the first ce. ¡°Sir, you¡¯re stressing yourself with worry. Let¡¯s get you some rest,¡± Moneypenny said, helping him walk just then. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m just old and weary,¡± Henry groaned emotionally. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t say that, sir. You will still live for a long while.¡± ¡°And that would still eventuallye to an end.¡± Suddenly, Henry turned toward Moneypenny. ¡°Now, help me set up a meeting with Harvey Gooding.¡± ¡°Why would you want to meet him, sir?¡± Moneypenny asked. Henry had made up his mind¨Che could ignore Irene¡¯s situation, but not a scion of his family. Irene had promised to deal with the situation herself before, and he decided he could refrain from meddling. However, with her now missing, he must take back the child from Harvey. ¡°You¡¯ve spoken to him before, haven¡¯t you? Tell me, what is he like? A pushover, or a tough nut?¡± Henry asked. Moneypenny dropped to his knees, stammering, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, sir¡­¡± ¡°Oh, get on your feet. I know you were coerced, but you¡¯ve spoken to him and know what he¡¯s like so tell me.¡± As Moneypenny stood up, he said, ¡°Well, he¡¯s not an unstoppable storm like Master Isaac, but he can hold his own.¡± Henry knew then that he should not meet Harvey recklessly¨Cthe man would only be open to negotiations with sufficient leverage. ¡°Any weaknesses?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Moneypenny lowered his head, and exined, ¡°We were not that close¡­¡± Henry suddenly chuckled, and it somehow gave Moneypenny the creeps. ¡°Do you have an idea, sir?¡± Henry smiled at him. ¡°Let¡¯s return his favor¨Can eye for an eye. That¡¯s just fair, don¡¯t you agree?¡± Moneypenny understood right then. ¡°You mean, we should abduct someone he cares about, and demand Irene¡¯s child in exchange?¡± Henry nodded that was exactly it, but he also had another goal in mind. The child was Irene and Isaac¡¯s, but Isaac had no idea. It therefore made Henry doubtful¨Chow could he not know? That was why he must take back the boy and conduct a paternity test! Nothing must be left half -baked when his family was involved! Likewise, he would never allow a Jefferson to be abandoned, let alone be threatened! ¡°Go on. Find out who he cares about the most,¡± Henry said. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Moneypenny said, and left. Still, as he watched his butler leave, Henry¡¯s almost turbid eyes twinkled! The Runaway Groom Chapter 198 The Runaway Groom Chapter 198 Chapter 198 Moneypenny had served Henry for years, and Henry still trusted him¡ªbut he could not deny that he had doubts after what happened recently. This counted as a test! Still, he could only hope that Moneypenny had really been coerced and nothing else¡­ Over at Rose Garden, the sedatives had worn off and Irene had regained consciousness. However, her limbs were still bound to prevent her from moving, and the sedatives left her lethargic. Having no idea who her captors were, she yelled, ¡°Is there anyone out there?! I¡¯m hungry!¡± There was no response¨CIsaac had instructed the guards outside to call him once she woke up, but also forbade them from entering the room. If she started screaming, let her scream all she wanted! When they heard Irene, the guards made the call. Isaac was in a meeting within a conference room that could amodate a hundred people. Most of the others present were executives and department chiefs¨Cit was a full house since it was a quarterly meeting. Isaac was leaning forward at the chairing seat, leaning sideways as he rested a hand on the table. He was twirling a Parker pen between his fingers, asionally swiftly and tapping it audibly on the table when he heard something that did not sit well with him! When one of the branchpany¡¯s reports proved clearly sub¨Cpar, he remained impassive but suddenly mmed his pen on the table. However, his phone rang just as he was about to speak, and he whipped it out to answer it. ¡°She¡¯s awake, sir, and she¡¯s yelling that she¡¯s hungry¡­¡± ¡°Ignore her,¡± Isaac growled. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Hanging up, he said, ¡°Continue.¡± He was letting Irene starve on purpose¨Cit was her fault, dumping him to marry Harvey! He was merciful enough not to kill her already! She needed a lesson to remember, because she seemed tock the ability to remember, challenging the limits of his tolerance constantly, while he had to keep bearing with her as her behavior escted for the worse! He chuckled despite himself as he remembered everything. The gloomy atmosphere in the conference room quickly cleared thanks to that. Someone who thought that he was in a good mood actually asked, ¡°Did something good Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. happen, Mr. Jefferson?¡± Isaac looked up at the person who asked. ¡°Yes, but I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t share it. Let¡¯s hope that your report is satisfactory so that I will stay in a good mood.¡± Naturally, the person was confident enough in his report to ask-Isaac¡¯s words actually boosted his confidence instead of leaving him fearful of his life! It was not until four hourster when the meeting finally concluded, and everyone¡¯s drinks must have been refilled over six times in that period. Everyone was exhausted, but they waited until Isaac left before leaving. He was loosening his necktie as he headed to his office, telling his secretary Debbie as she followed, ¡°Get a set of confectionery. Make sure it¡¯s good.¡± ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± Debbie replied and left, while Isaac dropped on his couch once he was in his office, throwing his necktie aside. He flexed his neck before leaning into his seat, his posture nonchnt as he napped to recharge. Over at Rose Garden, Irene¡¯s throat was parched after yelling for a long while without response. She could not move either, and it felt as if she was meat on the chopping block! She had no idea who her captors were either, and that felt absolutely terrible! She started to wonder who it could be, with Chad Ross being on top of the list of suspects. Isaac never crossed her mind, because she believed that he would be reluctant to mess with her now that she was getting married. The Runaway Groom Chapter 199 The Runaway Groom Chapter 199 Chapter 199 Isaac always carried himself as if he was above the rest. Stalking a married woman cheapened him! It definitely would not be him! As for Chad, who was Irene¡¯s prime suspect, she believed that they had no feud. Moreover, Chad himself said that he wanted to get back at Isaac for driving Whitney to her death, and would use her to that end. Sheughed bitterly at the thought¨CIsaac had already divorced her, and found himself a new lover. If Chad wanted revenge, he should be abducting Kathy instead. Why her? She looked around, studying the whole room, but did not recognize it as she had long since forgotten about it. The curtains were left open with a foot wide gap, and light was spilling in, illuminating the room. She blinked, suddenly not interested in moving while feeling dryness in her entire mouth! She closed herself to sleep¨Cmaybe she would not be that thirsty afterwards. Still, it took her a long while to doze off! Content held by N?velDrama.Org. When she finally opened her eyes again, she picked up the scent of food and spotted the confectionery on the table nearby. The exquisite appearance alone was mouthwatering, and it only tempted a famished person like her further. Her lips parted, and she found the insides of her mouth sticky¨Cshe would rather drink than eat at the moment, but she was definitely hungry too. Also, the confectionery was not there when she woke up just now. Whoever brought it must have done so after she fell asleep. Was it bait? Could it be poison? Why else would they make her starve, and suddenly put food there? She turned around despite much difficulty¨Cout of sight, out of mind. But she was certainly suffering! Was anyone evering to save her? Meanwhile, Isaac was watching her every move from the living room. Her lips were dried and she looked withered. It hurt Isaac to see her like that, but he steeled himself and closed hisptop so that he did not have to. ¡°Thirsty¡­¡± Irene narrowed her eyes in the darkness as night arrived. Her voice was almost as quiet as a mosquito, and she might soon be mute. Isaac picked her up, and helped her drink the water left on the table. ¡°Water.¡± She started to gulp it when her lips touched the moisture, and felt alive as it reached her stomach. Isaac held her in his arms and rubbed her back. ¡°Sleep.¡± He had untied her, but the difort from being bound lingered, and she felt as if she was dreaming because of her thirst. There was no way water would havee to her otherwise! If it really were, she hoped the dream wouldst longer. ¡°Tommy¡­¡± she mumbled in her sleep, missing her child too much. Her voice was too small for Isaac to hear, and she started to me herself for not protecting him. ¡°Mommy is sorry¡­¡± She parted with him soon after he was born, and even afterward, they were repeatedly separated, and he was repeatedly exposed to danger! She had failed as a mother. A tear trickled from the corner of her eye down to her nose, dropping quietly onto her pillow and disappearing! Isaac heard her just then, and thought that she was crying because she dreamed of their lost children. He could understand how she felt¨Che was the twins¡® father, after all. He gathered her in his arms within a warm embrace, as if that alleviated the misery in his own. heart as well. If only they could have more children¡­ It was a long night, but Isaac could not fall asleep no matter how he tried. And in the morning, Irene woke up¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 200 The Runaway Groom Chapter 200 Chapter 200 Irene was left gaping when she saw the face that was inches away from hers. ¡°Isaac Jefferson?!¡± she cried in surprise, but she was still too weak and was not all that loud, and therefore did not wake him. He only fell asleep when it was almost morning, which was why he was sleeping soundly. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org That was when Irene saw that she had been untied, but was only in her underwear, leaving her utterly confused. Did he strip her?! ¡°Bastard!¡± She could not help cursing¨Che always did this to her! Also, why did he abduct her in the first ce? Did he have nothing better to do, or did he really think that she could be bullied so easily?! She really wanted to strangle him just then, but she was too weak to do so. However, he was now defenseless, and she must do something for herself! She quietly left the bed, keeping her breathing quiet so as to not startle Isaac. As her bare feet touched the floor, she looked around for something that she could use to cover herself, and resorted to picking up Isaac¡¯s clothes since there was the only thing around. She basically lunged at the food and water on the table, popping the cap of a bottle of water and chugging it right then, only stopping when she finished half of it. Then, staring at the food for heartbeats, she eventually gave in and started to stuff everything into her mouth! She had no idea who her captors were, and was therefore afraid to eat the food. Somehow, she was relieved to know that it was Isaac¨Cdespite knowing his terrible temper and abusive nature, she was sure that he would not kill her. Which was why she was not worried at all. Still, she was too hungry and ate without restraint, and her stomach was so full it hurt. As she was left clutching her belly, an alluring voice asked, ¡°Is your stomach hurting?¡± She looked up to see that Isaac was already standing before her. And it was all his fault she was like this! ¡°You really are that horrible, aren¡¯t you, Isaac Jefferson? What good would staving me do to you?¡± she demanded¨Cbut she was still too weak to make herself sound threatening. Isaac reached out to grab her chin just then, and she had to rear her head¨Cher neck and chin were almost forming a single line. It certainly hurt and almost suffocated her! ¡°Let me go!¡± She breathed through her teeth. At the same time, she reached out to try to push him away, but he simply caught her hands. ¡°What do you want from me?!¡± she cried. Isaac¡¯s lips were almost touching hers, and they were looking into each other¡¯s eyes even as their breaths swirled around each other¡¯s nostrils. ¡°Have you asked for my approval before marrying someone else?¡± he growled quietly, withholding the sense of helplessness he felt. Only Irene could make him run in circles like this, and he could not do anything about her not even yell! Irene, however, found him crazy. He was hooking up with Kathy already¨Cso why was she not allowed to marry someone else? ¡°We¡¯re divorced, and I can marry anyone I want! Why do you care?¡± Isaac kept himself calm. ¡°Sharp¨Ctongued, aren¡¯t you?¡± Irene pursed his lips. ¡°I would never hope to match you in that department, Mr. Jefferson! Why did you even take me here? Am I your prisoner?!¡± ¡°Mr. Jefferson, you say?!¡± Isaac growled. Anger appeared on his face, and it looked just like the omen of an impending storm! He did not like being called that¡ªand very much so! The Runaway Groom Chapter 201 The Runaway Groom Chapter 201 Chapter 201 ¡°Don¡¯t call me that. Say my name,¡± Isaac demanded. Content held by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I would never- Before Irene could refuse, he had jammed his lips on hers, stopping her from talking However, she clenched her jaw to stop his tongue from advancing! As Isaac pulled away, he found her ring at him stubbornly. ¡°Are you really not letting me kiss you?¡± He chuckled coolly. ¡°Who would you rather kiss, then? Harvey Gooding?¡± Irene stiffened her neck, and lied outright despite thinking otherwise ¡°Yes¡± Isaac glowered horribly right then, and snorted coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it!¡± He started to lean forward again, and Irene fought back in turn¨Cbut this time, he bit firmly down on her lips, and Irene winced in pain. ¡°Oof-¡± Embarrassed, she suddenly pretended to be receptive. Isaac was surprised as she took the initiative, but before he could revel in that sensation, Irene was biting his lip at the next instant, and her teeth closed a lot harder on his lips than when she did it to him. Isaac, however, did not resist or even bat an eyelid. He endured it as she vented her frustration, and she must have broken his skin¨Cthe scent of blood was thick in the air! Naturally, his tolerance bored her, and she let him go. ¡°Can¡¯t bear to hurt me?¡± he asked. ¡°Dream on.¡± Irene snorted. ¡°I would have considered letting you go if you provedpliant, but you really don¡¯t have tact.¡± He rose to his feet, suddenly towering over her, while Irene was left in shock. ¡°What are you talking about? Are you keeping me here?!¡± ¡°You never listen,¡± he said simply. Irene lostposure right then. How long was he going to keep her here?! No, she had to get out! She promptly got up and ran, but Isaac simply grabbed her by the waist, holding her tightly against. himself. She could feel his scorching body heat through the thin fabric separating their skin, and it felt almost burning. She kicked and screamed, ¡°Let me go!¡± Isaac caught her hands to stop her from hurting herself in agitation. ¡°I¡¯ll never let you go.¡± Isaac carried her back to bed and picked up the rope he used before to tie her up. Irene¡¯s eyes widened and she shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No, stop! Don¡¯t tie me up!¡± He did it anyway. ¡°You¡¯re too smart, and I have this feeling that my guards would never be able to restrain you There is no chance I would allow you to marry Harvey Gooding.¡± Irene was seething through tears. ¡°I hate you!¡± Isaac stiffened, but smiled. ¡°Hate me all you want. You¡¯re not getting away from me.¡± She bellowed furiously, ¡°You¡¯re too much! You¡¯ll have your just deserts!¡± Isaac stared at her for a while, and though he was chuckling, there was a glimmer in his eyes that looked almost like tears. ¡°I already have it. Do you think there¡¯s anything that can hurt me more now?¡± Irene was taken aback, her rage subsiding a little when she saw the look in his eyes. Her voice calmed considerably as well. ¡°When will you let me go?¡± ¡°That depends on you.¡± He replied. Bzzt- That was when Isaac¡¯s phone, which he left at the bedside shelf, started vibrating He picked it up and answered the call, which was from Stan. Stan appeared rather worried. ¡°We have a situation, sir.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Isaac asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 202 The Runaway Groom Chapter 202 Chapter 202 ¡°Kathy York was attacked on the way to the branch office,¡± Stan exined Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. ¡°You can handle that yourself,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°She¡¯s seriously hurt, and is refusing treatment until she gets to see you.¡± Isaac frowned. ¡°Got it.¡± He soon hung up, but Stan had no idea what he meant. Meanwhile, Kathy was still throwing a fit, and he decided to text Isaac the address after some thought Maybe he woulde after seeing the address? It was not as if Stan was not doing anything¨Cthere was nothing he could do here. By now, he was positive that Isaac did not like Kathy at all. He would not have transferred her to the branchpany, and keeping her at all was only because she owned that silver crucifix! That was why he could not decide what to do here, and rather Issac dealt with it himself! On the other end, Isaac mused to himself for a while and told Irene, ¡°Stay here. I have something to do.¡± Irene, however, had heard Kathy¡¯s name. Was he going to meet her now? She actually felt disappointed knowing that for some reason, just as she warned herself not to feel that way After all, he did not deserve her. While she was a little frustrated, she pretended to be calm and snorted ¡°What can I do? I¡¯m all tied up.¡± Isaac simply presumed that she was upset that he had her restrained. ¡°As long as you understand your ce. You¡¯re not getting away even if I let you go anyway. There are guards right outside!¡± Giving her a look, he got dressed and left. Irene regretted biting him too lightly just then. Was she going to be here for another day, once again starved and denied water? Even if she just ate and was not hungry at the moment, she remembered how it felt to starve. Also, she just drank a ton of water What if she needs the washroom? Was she supposed to hold it in? Dear heavens! Was anyone out there who could save her?! ¡°Isaac Jefferson!¡± she growled through her teeth, hating him to the death just then! She would cut him into tiny pieces if he ever had a chance! Isaac sneezed as he drove. It was a hot day out¨Chow did he manage to catch a cold? Someone must be talking about him. He wound down his window to let the sun in, and the sunshine seemed to magnify the pronounced edges of his face. When he arrived at the hospital, he could already hear Kathy throwing a fit from the distance, and frowned in disgust ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± A helpless Stan promptly rushed to his side when he saw him, as if he saw salvation. ¡°Who were the perps?¡± Isaac asked just then. ¡°Just some street thugs. Maybe they were trying to cop a feel or something since she is pretty, and did it to her when she resisted.¡± Stan did not actually look into the matter, since he had to await Isaac¡¯s orders before doing anything! Still, Isaac did not ask him to investigate, perhaps because he had no interest in Kathy-he came because she was the owner of that silver crucifix, and the fact that she saved him. There was nothing else to it. ¡°What was she crying about?¡± His voice was cool and devoid of concern, likely because he really did not like her. : He certainly would not be this calm if Irene was attacked-he would already have ordered Stan to find her attackers, and bring them pain! ¡°She just wants to see you,¡± Stan admitted. As Isaac strode toward Kathy¡¯s ward, she was still flipping out, and flung a pillow at the doorway as he approached. He sidestepped, dodging it! ¡°Get out-¡± Kathy was pointing and yelling at the hospital staff, but paused for a moment when she saw Isaac, and lunged toward him at the next instant! The Runaway Groom Chapter 203 The Runaway Groom Chapter 203 Chapter 203 Isaac took two steps backward, avoiding Kathy. Naturally, she was disappointed to miss, and asked Isaac tearfully, ¡°How could you do this to me?¡± As Isaac remained impassive, she bawled miserably. ¡°I saved you, didn¡¯t I? Those men almost had their way with me!¡± ¡°I will not work at the branchpany!¡± she cried hysterically. ¡°Even if it kills me!¡± Isaac frowned in disdain just then. ¡°You were raised overseas, weren¡¯t you? I could arrange a job for you at a foreignpany instead,¡± he said-not relenting despite her tantrum. Kathy was left in disbelief. Was his heart made of stone? Could he not see the bruise on her face? Why was he insisting on making her leave? ¡°Why can¡¯t I stay at headquarters? Was my performancecking? I can improve-¡± ¡°I arranged a job for you because of my grandfather and because you were the owner of that silver crucifix. Do you think I would be here otherwise? I¡¯m already being kinder than I should be just by being here, and if your answer is still no, you can forfeit it entirely ¡± Kathy was speechless-that was not what she wanted! ¡°I don¡¯t want that. I just want-¡± ¡°Money?¡± Isaac suggested, cutting her short. He really did not want anything to do with her¨Cin fact, he wanted her gone soon. Kathy shook her head. Even if her family was no dynasty like the Jeffersons and her parents died while she was a child, the family fortune was solid. She did not want money-she wanted him! Content held by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I don¡¯t want money,¡± she said, tearing up as she remembered that Moneypenny had advised her not to cry all the time, but to do so strategically. But was this not enough to win his sympathy? Or was he simply no gentleman? Should she not be crying right now? She felt aggrieved just then¨Cwomen¡¯s tears were supposed to win the sympathy and affection of men, but Isaac remained unmoved! He had a heart of stone, and chivalry was dead with him! ¡°Please, I¡¯m begging you¨Cjust let me stay at the branchpany. I won¡¯t show up around you again¡­ for the sake of this silver crucifix!¡± She held up the silver crucifix at Isaac¡¯s face just then. Before this, she hated it because it was an eyesore¨Cno respectable young woman would wear something as out of fashion as that, and she preferred fashionable jewelry. However, Moneypenenny had told her to wear it at all times, and Isaac may be less cold toward her if she did That was why she kept it around her neck. And just as expected, Isaac seemed to see that pair of bright eyes he saw as a child when she held it at him ¡°Fine. Get better soon, and go to work when you feel you¡¯re fit enough.¡± With those words, he turned and left her ward. As Stan followed him, he instructed, ¡°Arrange a position for her where I won¡¯t ever see her.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied. Isaac suddenly threw his car keys at him. ¡°You¡¯re driving.¡± Stan caught it and nced at his own car-guess he would have to send someone to drive it to his house. As he drove Isaac¡¯s car out of the hospital, he asked, ¡°Office, or-¡± ¡°Office.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied. They drove along a route passing through a certain hotel. There were many cars parked outside, and the main entrance was decorated into a wedding aisle that extended into one of the ballroom. They could see the bride and bridegroom from outside, and Isaac recognized thetter. ¡°Stop,¡± he said quietly. Stan moved the car to stop by the road despite his confusion, asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Isaac gestured for him to look outside. Stan followed his gaze, and when he saw the newlyweds stepping out of the hotel, he raised his brow in surprise! The Runaway Groom Chapter 204 The Runaway Groom Chapter 204 Chapter 204 ¡°Isn¡¯t that Chad Ross?!¡± Stan eximed in surprise. ¡°I thought he was in love with Whitney Cox, and he looked like he could die after she went missing. He¡¯s marrying someone else already?¡± ¡°I told you to watch him-you never noticed that he was going to get married?¡± Isaac asked icily He had been anticipating reprisals from Chad because he drove Whitney presumably to her death, and therefore told Stan to always keep an eye on his movements. ¡°But my boys are watching him,¡± Stan quickly argued. ¡°He wasn¡¯t doing much, and I don¡¯t even recognize that woman.¡± Worried that Isaac would snap at him for failing in his responsibility, he quickly tried to change the subject. ¡°Hold on, sir. Don¡¯t you think the bride looks just like Whitney Cox? Maybe it¡¯s a rebound rtionship?¡± Isaac was not interested in the bride, but he was surprised that Chad would marry another woman so soon. He certainly did not hold back from challenging Isaac just to protect Whitney, and there had to be actual love involved. ¡°Call off your guys. There¡¯s no need to watch him now,¡± Isaac said tly ¡°Let¡¯s go Chad¡¯s marriage was proof enough that he was over Whitney¨CIsaac therefore did not have to watch his back for him now. ¡°Yeah,¡± Stan replied, and drove off. Unbeknownst to them, the bride had been staring at their car the instant it arrived and stopped outside, and was still watching as they drove into the distance. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. The unrepressed spite in her eyes was certainly sinister. ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Chad asked just then. ¡°I saw Isaac Jefferson¡¯s car,¡± the bride replied unhappily. Chad patted her hand then. ¡°It¡¯s our happy day-we don¡¯t have to get upset over him.¡± The bride nodded in agreement. ¡°Yeah¡± Over at Jefferson Manor, Moneypenny hurried into Henry¡¯s study, informing him, ¡°I have done what you asked, sir.¡± Henry was satisfied with his performance¨Che had people tailing his butler after he asked him to find leverage against Harvey Gooding, and Moneypenny did so without contacting Harvey. ¡°Good. Contact him now,¡± Henry said. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Moneypenny replied, and left. After he was gone, Henry called out, ¡°Timmy.¡± Timmy was his professional bodyguard, but was also adept at intelligence work. ¡°Leak news that Moneypenny was the one behind the abduction,¡± Henry said. ¡°Yes, sir. Right away, sir,¡± Timmy said and left. Henry moved a ck chess piece, checkmating the white side. He leaked the news because he just wanted Harvey to know that Moneypenny had abducted his mother. If they were still in league with one another, that would drive a wedge between them. Moreover, it was necessary to be wary of Moneypenny after his betrayal¨Che would have fired him if he were younger. After all, betrayal was betrayal¨Ccoercion notwithstanding. However, he was now an old man and had be a little sentimental, a shadow of his ruthless self during his younger days! Meanwhile, Harvey was still busy looking for Irene, only to realize that another fire had just ignited in his backyard He almost jumped from sheer frustration when he got the call. ¡°Who is it?! Who has a death wish, kidnapping my mother?!¡± he demanded in frustration. ¡°We don¡¯t know, sir¡­¡± The answer left him even more frustrated, and he snapped, ¡°Did I pay all of you to goof off?! Find them!¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± He flung his cellphone away the instant he hung up, and it shattered into pieces with a loud crack. He had no idea who it was, when Isaac came to mind¡­. ¡°Enrique!¡± His assistant entered the room. ¡°Yes, Mr. Gooding?¡± ¡°Get my chopper ready. I need to leave right away-¡± Before he could finish, the phone on his desk started ringing. The Runaway Groom Chapter 205 The Runaway Groom Chapter 205 Chapter 205 Harvey quickly answered the telephone, believing that there was news about Irene. ¡°Hello¡­7¡± ¡°We have your mother. Come meet Master Jefferson if you want her freed.¡± ¡°Moneypenny?!¡± Harvey remembered the butler¡¯s voice, and narrowed his eyes. ¡°He took my mother?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Moneypenny replied. ¡°Where?¡± Harvey growled through clenched teeth. Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. ¡°Hibiscus Garden.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll be right there.¡± He snarled every word, his face contorted with rage. Even if there were times when he was unreliable, he cared for his parents very much¨Cespecially his mother¨Cand he had nevermitted any unforgivable crimes! ¡°Get the car. We¡¯re leaving.¡± Harvey growled urgently. Enrique was left confused. He wanted the chopper a moment ago, and now the car? Which was it, exactly? ¡°Mr. Gooding¡­?¡± ¡°The car!¡± Harvey barked. Having confirmed his order, Enrique quickly said, ¡°I will go right now.¡± After Enrique left, Harvey was left scratching his neck in frustration. Forget not finding Irene¨Ceven his mother was now taken away. How could he not be furious? His stress had certainly been piling over thest few days. He had actually lost weight, as well as grown dark circles under his eyes fromst night! He was absolutely livid! As he got in the car, he urged Enrique to drive faster. Still, he arrived at Hibiscus Garden before Henry did, and therefore had to wait. Waiting was never something pleasant, and the look on his face was terrible as he kept ncing at his watch When he had almost had enough of waiting and was about to leave, Henry slowly arrived at the scene, approaching him while Moneypenny supported him. Harvey rose to his feet, instantly demanding, ¡°What is this? Why did you kidnap my mother?!¡± ¡°You messed with me first, didn¡¯t you?¡± Henry asked in return. Harvey was silenced! Meanwhile, Henry was taking his sweet time to be seated and cut straight to the point, ¡°Give me Irene¡¯s child, and you¡¯ll have your mother back.¡± Harvey frowned He had been cautious against Isaac, but had forgotten his grandfather. He realized how big of a blunder he just made then! Still, he tried to y dumb. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± ¡°Oh, you¡¯re a funny one.¡± Henry smiled. ¡°Did you think I¡¯m the type of person who would make a move without knowing what I¡¯m getting into?¡± Harvey was left in a dilemma right then¨Che would have no leverage to coerce Irene into marrying him once he surrendered her child, and he absolutely did not want that. However, there was no way he could abandon his own mother! ¡°Did Irene put you up to this?¡± he asked, trying to perceive if Irene was hiding with the Jeffersons. Maybe Henry knows where she is, and she might even be the one who thought this whole thing up! Nheless, Henry replied, ¡°No.¡± Harvey was doubtful. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Why would I lie to you?¡± Henry asked in return. Harvey realized that he was right just then¨Clying was meaningless ¡°Have you made up your mind now?¡± Henry asked just then Harvey knew right then he had no choice, because he could not abandon his mother. ¡°Fine. You can have the boy.¡± ¡°Bring him with you to Jefferson Manor,¡± Henry said, and rose to his feet, with Moneypenny quickly moving to help him again. Harvey left soon after Henry did, and told Enrique, ¡°Find out who went to Sunny City and kidnapped my mother.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Enrique replied. One way or another, Harvey¡¯s n¨Cwhich he spent so much time, money and effort to put together¨C had now fallen apart. He was seething, but he had no choice but to exchange hostages with Henry! He drove to the location where he had hidden Tommy! The Runaway Groom Chapter 206 The Runaway Groom Chapter 206 Chapter 206 Harvey had kept Irene¡¯s child at a nursery to avoid attention. He also hired a professional nursemaid to care for the baby. Having no choice now, he hurried to the nursery, handled the paperwork, and left with Tommy. Since he was driving, he kept the baby in the backseat¨Cfortunately, Tommy just had some milk and was asleep, or he would be crying if he was awake. Harvey nced at the rearview mirror from time to time. The child was less like Irene than Isaac, and the thought left him aggrieved. He managed to steal the boy and used him to coerce Irene, only for all his ns to be foiled in an instant! Even though he did not like the oue, there was nothing he could do¨Che could not abandon his mother, and had to exchange hostages with Henry. The old man¡¯s n to retaliate at Harvey with a taste of his own medicine was certainly effective, hitting him where it hurts the most in an instant! Harvey eventually arrived at Jefferson Manor, and carried Tommy himself out of the car. Henry was seated before a tea table and calmly sipping tea, appearing rather rxed. Soon, a servant arrived and informed him, ¡°A Mr. Gooding is asking for you, sir.¡± Henry remained calm and unaffected. He took another sip of tea, seemingly savoring the aftertaste for a while before finally putting away his cup and telling the servant, ¡°Show him in.¡± Soon, Harvey entered with Tommy in his arms. ¡°Bring her in, Timmy.¡± Henry said when he saw the child. Soon, Harvey¡¯s mother was led into the room. It turned out that Henry and his people never harassed her, and took good care of her after bringing her here. Seeing that his mother was fine, Harvey said, ¡°Here.¡± Henry gestured for Moneypenny to take Tommy, while Rosa¨CHarvey¡¯s mother¨Ccalled out to him in delight. Henry gestured for Timmy to release her, and Harvey promptly rushed to her side. ¡°Mom, are you alright? Did they hurt you?¡± Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org. ¡°N¨CNo¡­¡± Rosa replied¨Cshe did not want her son to worry. Still, there was no question that she had received a fright, since people she had never met had taken her here. Harvey turned toward Henry then. ¡°So? Are we even now?¡± Henry finally turned toward Harvey, his seemingly turbid gaze suddenly sharp. ¡°I hope you won¡¯t try anything funny with Irene ever again.¡± Harvey chuckled ¡°If I recall, she and your grandson are divorced, and you were the one who finalized the paperwork yourself. Why can¡¯t I go woo her when she¡¯s single?¡± Henry shook her head-Harvey was being such an amateur. ¡°Do you think you can leave this ce if you say no?¡± ¡°What, are you reneging on our deal?¡± Harvey growled, but soon turned to find more men appearing at the doorway. ¡°Our deal was that I¡¯ll give you your mother when you give me Irene¡¯s child. Didn¡¯t I give her back to you? How am I reneging on our deal?¡± Henry asked in return. Harvey was speechless, but he had to bear with it-this was not his territory, and his mother would get worried if he lost control. ¡°Fine, you¡¯re not reneging¨Cyou¡¯re just being out of line.¡± ¡°You went out of line first, Harvey Gooding. You abducted an infant to coerce a woman who didn¡¯t love you to marry you. Do you think what you did is in any way reasonable?¡± Henry asked sharply then. Harvey could not offer a retort¨Ceverything Henry said was the truth. ¡°Is that true, Harvey?¡± Rosa was at once caught in shock and disbelief. ¡°You told me you were getting married soon, and you would show me your bride soon¡­ But you were actually forcing her to marry you?!¡± ¡°No!¡± Harvey was certainly not going to tell her mother the truth. She wanted him to marry soon, but he had never met any woman he liked¨Csaved for Irene. In fact, he seemed to get crazier about her with each passing encounter! He was earnestly interested in her, and it would also satisfy his grudge against Isaac. Forced topromise, he growled, ¡°Fine. I won¡¯t try anything with her ever again.¡± ¡°I hope you¡¯re a man of your word,¡± Henry said. ¡°Or a man could only get that far in life.¡± With that, Harvey quietly left with his mother. The Runaway Groom Chapter 207 The Runaway Groom Chapter 207 Chapter 207 Rosa had no idea what had happened, but she was aware that Jefferson Manor was not the ce to talk. Once inside Harvey¡¯s car, she took her son¡¯s hand and said, ¡°Tell me. What was all of that about?¡± She certainly felt uneasy about all that. ¡°Look, Harvey¨Cyour father left thepany to you in its entirety, and I don¡¯t know much about business so I can¡¯t help much with that. I also know that things can get difficult for you, but even so, you shouldn¡¯t force a woman who doesn¡¯t love you to marry you. You would never find happiness that way.¡± While Rosa was being considerate for her son¡¯s sake since he would not find happiness in a marriage where coercion was involved, she was also a woman¨Cshe knew that from the perspective of the bride, beingpelled to marry someone she did not love was misfortune too. ¡°I wish I could have a daughter¨Cinw who is kind and understanding, but most of all, loves you for who you are. If you love her too, your marriage willst. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been so worried.¡± Her advice was heartfelt and sincere, and Harvey certainly understood Content held by N?velDrama.Org. That was why he told her that the woman he loved was in Cloud City. He wanted to marry her there before bringing her back to Sunny City, because he was afraid his mother would find out he was coercing Irene into marrying him! ¡°Do you hear me?¡± Rosa¡¯s tone became more severe as Harvey did not respond, and she gave him a smack! ¡°Yes, Mom,¡± Harvey replied despite his reluctance. ¡°I won¡¯t urge you to marry, but you have to find a woman so that there is mutual affection in your rtionship¡± Rosa was certainly a kind mother who was genuinely considerate toward her son ¡°I know,¡± Harvey said. ¡°I understand that your father¡¯s passing was a huge blow, and you¡¯ve been indulging yourself with vices for a long while ever since, messing around with all sorts of women and doing outrageous things. I understand that you did not mean to and was just avoiding grief to keep yourself jaded I saw that you were pessimistic, but you slowly improved¨Cyou know that I have high hopes for you, right?¡± As she tugged at Harvey¡¯s hand, he lowered his gaze and murmured, ¡°I know, Mom Let¡¯s get you home.¡± Rosa nodded ¡°I¡¯ve been feeling a little illtely Stay a whule with me¡± She wanted to keep Harvey with her, so that he did not do anything dangerous. While their encounter with the Jeffersons proved to just be a near shave, who could tell what would happen next time? She did not fear for herself¨Cshe worried that her son was in danger ¡°Harvey, you have to keep your father¡¯spany standing after he entrusted it to you,¡± Rosa said, telling him to focus on work just then Harvey replied, ¡°I know¡± ¡°Good I don¡¯t want to have to worry about you¡± ¡°You won¡¯t have to It seemed that he would be staying home to care for his mother for a while, or she would really worry about him. Bzzt- His phone started ringing. It was Enrique, his assistant. ¡°Sir, Moneypenny was the one who took your mother.¡± Harvey lowered his gaze. ¡°I know.¡± Back at Jefferson Manor, Henry asked Moneypenny to bring Tommy to him after Harvey left, his eyes twinkling when he saw the child. ¡°Don¡¯t you think he looks just like Isaac when he was a child?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Moneypenny answered with no hesitation. ¡°It¡¯s uncanny!¡± Henry was basically certain then that Tommy was Isaac¡¯s son, and the more he looked, the more he was pleased to see his first great¨Cgrandchild. He was old, and was naturally hopeful to have ankle-biters around him. ¡°Do we do a paternity test?¡± Moneypenny asked just then¨Cthe resemnce to Isaac was striking, and could basically be confirmed from looking. ¡°Let¡¯s do it to avoid any mistakes,¡± Henry replied. ¡°I will make the arrangements.¡± Moneypenny said. Henry nodded. Henry headed to the hospital, and had his bodyguard Timmy carry Tommy so that he could have ease of mind, but he also kept a close eye! They had the results under an hour, with Henry handing Moneypenny the report sheet. ¡°Sir, here it is.¡± Henry took it, and there was no mistaking it this time! ¡°He really is Isaac¡¯s son!¡± A man was approaching them, but froze right then, his expression changing in an instant! He strode towards them regardless, greeting, ¡°Grandfather.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 208 The Runaway Groom Chapter 208 Chapter 208 As Henry looked up, he frowned when he saw that it wasn. He folded the report sheet and slipped it into his pocket while asking, ¡°Why are you here?¡± ¡°Just keeping a friendpany¡­¡± Before he could finish, an alluring woman walked up and linked her arm aroundn¡¯s, but he quickly pulled his arm away and quietly told her, ¡°Leave.¡± The woman did not seem to understand and smiled. n ¡°I told you to leave, didn¡¯t I?¡± His expression turned cold right then. Finally noticing that he was hostile, she became flustered and hung her head as she left. ¡°Grandfather¡­¡± Ian began. Henry, however, was watching the woman, and told him solemnly. ¡°You¡¯re not a child-you should be getting married, and not surround yourself with unseemly women.¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. As he spoke, he nced at the child in Timmy¡¯s arms Henry stepped between them right then. ¡°You must be hearing things. Why would Isaac have a child?¡± he asked, and changed the subject right then. ¡°What were you doing with that woman in the hospital? You know that our family should always keep our bloodline pure. The mother of your child must be someone of equal social standing¡± It was certainly true that he came with that woman as she got checked, but she was not pregnant. He knew the importance of alliances, and he needed his wife¡¯s family connections and other resources. ¡°Fool around all you want, but there is a time to stop. Also, tell your parents not to mess around ever again. -I¡¯m old now, and I won¡¯t live that long to protect the three of you-¡± ¡°You were the one who handed off everything to Isaac, Grandfather, and you¡¯re now telling us to stop fighting too?¡±n slipped his hands in his pocket, but he was feeling aggrieved despite looking sloppy! He felt that Henry was ying favorites. They were all Jeffersons, and both of him were his grandsons- why should Isaac be given the entire dynasty? He was certainly dissatisfied, and convinced that he was capable of what Isaac could do, but Henry refused to give him a chance. ¡°I have my reasons,¡± Henry replied. ¡°You can ask your mother if you really want to find out.¡± ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±n was smart-he sensed that Henry was clearly telling him that his mother had done something wrong, and Henry had given Isaac everything in rpense. ¡°I¡¯m leaving now,n. I¡¯m really tired.¡± With that, Henry walked away with Moneypenny¡¯s help. ¡°I will walk with you, Grandfather.¡±n went up, and Moneypenny stood aside so that he could hold Henry¡¯s hand. Henry could not refuse, and gestured for Timmy to leave with the child first. As Timmy nodded and left,n asked, ¡°Who is that child, Grandfather?¡± He had clearly heard Henry say that the child was Isaac¡¯s, and Henry was deliberately sending him away to prevent any contact between them. After walking Henry to his car, he said, ¡°I have something else to do, Grandfather. I won¡¯t be heading home with you.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Henry replied. However, seeing thatn was heading back inside the hospital, Henry told Moneypenny, ¡°Tell the doctor to keep his mouth shut.¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Moneypenny promptly made the call¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 209 The Runaway Groom Chapter 209 Chapter 209 In the hospital, the doctor who had just performed the paternity test on Tommy had just put away his phone when he foundn standing before him. ¡°Mr. Jeff-¡± Before he could finish,n had caught his cor. ¡°Cut the crap. Tell me¨Cwhy did my grandfathere to the hospital today?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a routine examination-¡± ¡°Do I look like an idiot?¡±n growled with a menacing re. ¡°Say that again, I dare you¡± The doctor was left shaking in his boots. Henry had pressured him into silence, but the man before him was no pushover either¨Cleaving him treading on thin ice. ¡°I would never dare.¡± ¡°So you do think I¡¯m an idiot,¡±n growled. ¡°You think I wouldn¡¯t know? If it¡¯s a routine checkup, why would my grandfather be here at the genealogical department? Also, this hospital has the DNA of every Jefferson in case of emergencies. The only reason for using that would be for a paternity test for that baby my grandfather brought, no?¡± Content held by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°That¡¯s true, but I hadn¡¯t heard of any paternity test..¡± The doctor stumbled backward and mmed into a door, but as he straightened himself, he cried, ¡°I don¡¯t know anything¡­ Please don¡¯t make life harder for lowly people like us¡­¡± Still, he felt as if he had fallen into an abyss! Did they think they could hide it because they wanted to? Dream on! He turned and left the hospital, a n hatching in his mind. Over at the Light Group office, Isaac Jefferson was working when he received a call from Irene¡¯s guards, saying that she was mming the door and breaking things. They had to call him because they did not dare to get too close. Isaac promptly rushed to Rose Garden, and opened the bedroom door to find it a mess. Irene was lying on the ground, still tied up and her hair a mess. Her shirt only covered her from waist up, baring her long legs, and she looked up to re at him when she sensed someone entering! Isaac hurried toward her and picked her up off the ground. Irene bellowed, ¡°Untie me! Let me go!¡± Isaac did not, and instead told her, ¡°Calm down.¡± Irene was speechless, her eyes bloodshot. ¡°Let me go!¡± She snarled every word from between her teeth. She was too agitated, so Isaac had someone administer a sedative, only releasing her when she was calm enough ¡°Isaac Jefferson!¡± She suddenly leapt up at him and grabbed his neck, choking it. Isaac was surprised by her strength, but simply allowed her to do it,nding on the floor after she mmed into him. ¡°Are you going to kill me? Do you hate me that much?¡± he asked as he looked up at her. Irene kept a vice¨Clike grip over his neck regardless¨Cher madness came from a dream of a beast running off with Tommy, and she could not catch up even as her soles bled, and she had to watch as the beast ate Tommy¡­ She was terrified, and had to find Harvey right then. She must see Tommy safe, or she would die! ¡°I hate you! I¡¯ll kill you right now, but I can¡¯t let my child be a murderer¡¯s child, or let people tell him that his mother killed his father!¡± Isaac¡¯s heart skipped a beat, before suddenly pounding with excitement with the surprise. Even as his spirits soared, he eximed, ¡°W¨CWhat was that? Ouu child is still alive?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 210 The Runaway Groom Chapter 210 Chapter 210 Irene appeared to be at a loss. Pain and helplessness showed in her eyes. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have told you. A cheater like you doesn¡¯t deserve to know.¡± Isaac held her shoulders. ¡°Are you telling the truth?¡± ¡°Why would I lie to you?¡± Her lips trembled even as she appeared deted as she straddled him. ¡°I had twins, but the infection from Whitney Cox¡¯s amniocentesis meant I would have lost one even if you didn¡¯t beat me up. The other is safe-that¡¯s why I was hiding for months, to deliver him.¡± Isaac¡¯s heart pounded wildly, his breath and mind a mess right then. He wanted to raise his hands but could not feel his strength. ¡°Where¡¯s our child?¡± he rasped. ¡°Harvey Gooding took him. He was using him to coerce me into marrying him ¡± Irene sobbed Isaac¡¯s surprise and delight disappeared right then! ¡°What?!¡± His voice turned cold and his expression was sinister. ¡°Let me go! I have to look for him-¡± Isaac promptly put her on the bed right then. ¡°Debbie will soone by with your clothing. Leave our child to me.¡± With that, he got up and left. He would find his child! ¡°Tommy is still very young! Don¡¯t let him get hurt!¡± Irene called out. She was worried that Isaac would offend Harvey in his rage, and cause harm to Tommy. ¡°I know,¡± Isaac said, and left the room. He went searching for Harvey without a n¨Csomething he would not have usually done. Unlike before, he was going in blind, but this was different. He cared-perhaps too much¨Cand therefore could not think straight. However, he soon found out that Harvey had returned to Sunny City. ¡°We¡¯re going right now.¡± ¡°What?!¡± Stan thought he was hearing things. Why was Isaac being so impatient? Presuming that Isaac missed what he said, he repeated, ¡°Harvey returned to Sunny City¡­ Are you saying that we¡¯re going there right now?¡± Isaac gave him a look. ¡°Yes, right now.¡± Stan stopped asking questions right then and went to work. As Isaac and his people rushed to Sunny City in the night, he calmed down considerably in the journal. realizing that he had no leverage against Harvey to win a negotiation. If Harvey were to be forced to release his child, he would have to do something drastic¡­ which he did by abducting Harvey, throwing a sack over his head and beating him up! Harvey was cursing furiously. ¡°Who the fuck are you people?! Come fight me if you dare¨Coof!¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. He felt a kick in the gut, and curled up in pain! Still, he snarled when he recovered, ¡°Kick me elsewhere, bastard!¡± He was kicked in the gut as soon as he finished, leaving him speechless. This was too much! Did nobody fight fair these days?! ¡°Take this sack off if you want a real fight!¡± Harvey snarled through gritted teeth from the pain in his gut! ¡°I don¡¯t, though,¡± Stan said. Harvey was speechless again. Hold on¡­ Was that Stan Hill?! ¡°Stan Hill?! Let me go!¡± Harvey bellowed furiously. ¡°Did you go nuts?! I¡¯ll kill you!¡± Isaac gestured for Stan to take the sack off Harvey¡¯s head, and when Stan did so, Harvey¡¯s expression became even more terrible when he saw that Isaac was there too. The Runaway Groom Chapter 211 The Runaway Groom Chapter 211 Chapter 211 ¡°Isaac Jefferson?! What is the meaning of this?!¡± Harvey demanded ¡°Where is my child?!¡± Isaac simply asked. Harvey quickly realized what he was talking about, and frowned. ¡°Ask your grandfather! Why did you evene to me?!¡± ¡°Stop bullshitting!¡± Stan walked up, aiming another kick at him. Isaac stopped, but his gaze was icy as he looked at Harvey ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°What do I mean? What else could I mean? Your grandfather took the baby!¡± Isaac frowned. His grandfather knew about his child? He suddenly had a foreboding sensation¨Chis child might have been safer with Harvey than at Jefferson Manor! After all, Henry had kept protecting his uncle¡¯s family, but if they found out¡­ He panicked right then, once again unable to stay calm because he cared too much He whipped out his phone to call Henry right then. ¡°Look, your grandpa took my mom and demanded the baby in exchange. I wouldn¡¯t have given him up otherwise,¡± Harvey growled as tried to sit up, but he could not do it since his hands were tied Turning toward Stan, he snapped, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to untie me?¡± Stan actually felt guilty when he realized that Harvey did not have Isaac¡¯s child He had beat the man up for nothing! Still, as soon as he untied Harvey, the man promptly jabbed him in the face! Caught by surprises, Stan was left dizzy and bled from his lip. ¡°You were the one kicking me, weren¡¯t you?!¡± Harvey¡¯s face contorted with rage. ¡°Do I look like a pushover?!¡± With that, he punched Stan again¨Cwho had yet to recover from the first. Harvey was also moving too quickly for him to dodge. He gritted his teeth in pain and spat blood on the ground, and reached up to wipe the blood off his twitching lips. He did not retaliate, however, and simply told Harvey, ¡°We¡¯re even now.¡± ¡°Even? Do you even remember how many times you kicked me?!¡± Harvey demanded indignantly. His belly still hurt right now! Stan naturally did not remember, not to mention that he was still a little dazed from Harvey¡¯s punches But he was not about to lie down and take his beating¨Cif Harvey kept this up, he would fight back. ¡°Do you really think you stand a chance?¡± Harvey did not keep arguing, however, and turned toward Isaac instead.N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°You abducted Irene, didn¡¯t you?¡± he asked, and continued before Isaac could deny it. ¡°Wait, don¡¯t bother- I know what happened, but I won¡¯t fight you for once. I don¡¯t have time for this.¡± Rosa, his mother, was keeping a very close eye on him, not to mention that he had been too busy to travel to Cloud City. Isaac leveled a look of indifference at him for a moment, and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± He had not said a thing, but Harvey knew right then that he had Irene¨Cprobably because he did not deny it. With that, Isaac and his people rushed back to Cloud City as quickly as they left. The two cities were rtively close, but the traveling still cost them considerable time. Isaac headed straight to Jefferson Manor once they reached Cloud City. His clothes were wrinkled because he did not have time to change, but it did not dampen the cold, menacing air around him. ¡°Grandfather.¡± As he entered the front door, he saw that Henry was about to head out. There was a look of panic in Henry¡¯s eyes when he saw Isaac, and he quickly averted his eyes, as if afraid to look Isaac in the eye. ¡°Isaac-¡± ¡°Where¡¯s the child?¡± Isaac asked. Henry frowned. He was not supposed to know¨Cbut here he was, suddenly aware that his child was alive, and questioning Henry. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about¡­¡± Henry tried to lie, even if he did not want to¨Cright now, he must. ¡°Return my child to me, Grandfather,¡± Isaac demanded. Henry appeared insistent on feigning ignorance, so Isaac exposed him right then. ¡°Should I bring Harvey Gooding here to corroborate my story?¡± Henry became flustered then. ¡°H¨CHow did you know?¡± ¡°Where is the child?¡± Isaac simply and crudely ignored his question. Nheless, Henry¡¯s evasiveness left Isaac uneasy! ¡°You lost the child, didn¡¯t you?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 212 The Runaway Groom Chapter 212 Chapter 212 Henry¡¯s eyes widened in shock, and he asked unsteadily, ¡°H¨CHow did you know? Isaac¡¯s expression was as cold as ice. ¡°Who was it?¡± ¡°I¨CI don¡¯t know,¡± Henry blurted, and reached out to hold his grandson¡¯s arm ¡°Calm down, the child will be fine-¡± ¡°When did you find out, Grandfather?¡± Isaac demanded icily, knocking his hand away right then Henry was taken aback. ¡°Isaac¡­¡± ¡°Grandfather, you know how my parents died and why I almost drowned. I¡¯ve been restraining myself not because I have forgotten, but because no parent should bury their child You can¡¯t me me for being heartless if they hurt my child.¡± With that, Isaac turned around, leaving the manor and studying outside, instructing Stan as he walked. ¡°I want to know everything happening over there.¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± There was a grave look on Stan¡¯s face, but he quickly left to carry out his orders. ¡°Isaac¡­¡± Henry was murmuring back in the manor. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org He certainly did not want to see his own family destroying each other while he was still alive His hand trembled as he asked, ¡°Moneypenny, do you thinkn took the child?¡± ¡°Maybe not,¡± Moneypenny said. Henry, however, knew¨Che just did not want to admit it. ¡°No, it must be him. He saw us when we were carrying out that paternity test on the child at the hospital, and we never could have hidden from him once he suspected it. He also visited us that night, and the child soon disappeared after¨Cwho else could it be but him?¡± ¡°You¡¯re overthinking this, sir,¡± Moneypenny tried to assure him. Henry wobbled, unable to stand and needing his butler¡¯s help. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can protect them now,¡± Henry quietly said. Moneypenny, however, believed that Henry had done all he could ¡°Sir, they have been relentless, and I¡¯ve even heard that Quincy Moore tried to kill Master Isaac on the day of his wedding. He did not retaliate, however, because he was being considerate to you.¡± ¡°While you believed that they would not go that far if you gave them some of Light Group¡¯s shares, they clearly wanted everything. You¡¯ve been defending them for far too long, and you¡¯ve also done everything you can to stop Master Isaac from seeking vengeance. The marriage, the bride you chose for him¡­ Things may not have yed out ideally, but you¡¯ve done your best.¡± *But now, they deserve whatever ising to them.¡± Quincy was the one who started the whole mess, and Henry knew it. Even so, they were all his family, and it hurt him to lose anyone. ¡°Sigh..¡± ¡°You¡¯re not that young now, sir. It is time to let go,¡± Moneypenny told him. It was true¨Cas he aged, Henry¡¯s health was a shadow of what it was ¡°Oh, let them do whatever they want,¡± he sighed, feeling endlessly helpless and lonely just then. When Irene was released, she was informed that Harvey had returned to Sunny City, and had to wait despite her anxiousness. She returned to the Spencer Mansion to assure Sheryl she was fine, and found out that Ricky had done what she asked perfectly. She was relieved to have Ricky keeping an eye on Spencer Holdings, while she ced all attention on her child. She returned to Isaac¡¯s mansion as well, telling Mrs. Watson to call her immediately when Isaac returned. In fact, she had been making several trips to Light Group, repeatedly asking if Isaac had returned. It was during one such trip that she saw Isaac¡¯s car, and quickly ran up to it. ¡°Isaac Jefferson-¡± Isaac stopped the car and alighted, but Irene ran straight to his car to look inside. Finding no sign of Tommy, she frowned and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s my baby?¡± Isaac appeared nonchnt. ¡°I¡¯m having a friend babysit-¡± ¡°What do you mean, babysit?!¡± Irene had grabbed him by the cor before he could finish. He was too tall for her to look him in the eye, and had to stand on her toes even if Isaac leaned downward to help. ¡°You¡¯re talking about your own baby!¡° The Runaway Groom Chapter 213 The Runaway Groom Chapter 213 Chapter 213 Isaac said, ¡°I know.¡± ¡°Then why are you leaving Tommy with someone else?!¡± Irene was utterly confused by his actions. ¡°Are you abandoning him?!¡± Tommy? Isaac¡¯s heart clenched at the name. So, the baby was called Tommy? ¡°That¡¯s his name,¡± he murmured, doing his best to stop himself from rasping! Irene, however, felt her insides turn cold. She did not care about his question¨Cshe just wanted her baby! ¡°Bring him back, or tell me where your friend lives. I¡¯ll take back Tommy¨Che¡¯s mine, and you have no right to leave him with strangers. You¡¯re just worried that he¡¯ll get in the way between you and Kathy York, aren¡¯t you? Just tell me if you are, and I¡¯ll hide Tommy¡¯s identity from everyone while you mess around all you want, or get married-¡± Isaac¡¯s expression turned icy. ¡°Are you done? Then stop. I¡¯ll bring Tommy back, just give me a few days-¡± ¡°No, it has to be right now!¡± Irene did not want to wait a moment longer. In reality, Isaac himself was not sure where Tommy was, and did not want to tell Irene so that she did not have to worry¨Cbut he underestimated how crazy mothers could get! ¡°Calm down.¡± Isaac reached out to pull her toward himself, but she pushed him away ¡°Give me Tommy!¡± Isaac actually stumbled, and was left pursing his lips as he watched her Suddenly, she said, ¡°Wait, are you trying to keep him from me? Is that why you¡¯re leaving him with someone else?¡± Isaac turned to leave¨Cshe was clearly not in her right mind, but Irene simply stopped him as she continued her ramblings ¡°Why are you running? Feeling guilty? So, you want a child but not me as the mother? Is that why you¡¯re lying? I¡¯m telling you, Tommy is mine¨Cdon¡¯t even think about taking him away, or making him call another woman mommy- H ¡°Irene Spencer¡± Isaac snapped severely-she was getting increasingly hystericall However, she was not about to give in either ¡°What, upset that I¡¯m right about you?¡± Closing his eyes to calm himself, Isaac said, ¡°No. The truth is, Tommy is missing¨CI didn¡¯t want to tell you because I know you¡¯d worry But I guess I shouldn¡¯t hide it if it means leaving you hysterical.¡± ¡°Look,¡± he continued earnestly, ¡°I¡¯m as worried as you are, because Tommy is my child too However, being calm is most important right now if we want to find him. Also, don¡¯t keep lumping me with Kathy York ¨C didn¡¯t I tell you that there¡¯s nothing between us?¡± Irene, however, was wobbling even as she stared at him ¡°Tommy is missing?¡± Her mind was ringing, and she was unable to listen to anything else he said! The fact that her child was missing was stuck in her mind. Was that why she had that nightmare? ¡°W-Who took him?¡± she rasped. Isaac pulled her into his arms and stroked her back tofort her. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter who it is. I¡¯ll find Tommy and bring him back safely.¡± Irene could not help shaking uncontrobly. Her eyes welled with tears. ¡°I¡¯m scared. I¡­¡± Isaac assured her, ¡°He¡¯ll be fine. Trust me.¡± She looked up with teardrops caught in her curled eyshes. ¡°But what if he gets hurt?¡± ¡°He won¡¯t,¡± Isaac said, wiping her tears. Bzzt- His phone suddenly started to ring, and he answered it. ¡°Yeah?¡± Irene¡¯s ears pricked up in attention!Content held by N?velDrama.Org. The Runaway Groom Chapter 214 The Runaway Groom Chapter 214 Chapter 214 Stan spoke from the other end. ¡°I¡¯ve checked. Ian Jefferson had been to the manor, where your child was kept. The boy went missing afterward, and it is most likelyn¡¯s doing. Also, Moneypenny had mentioned that your grandfather wanted to keep things quiet, but they bumped inton when they did a paternity test Isaac frowned. ¡°What paternity test?¡± ¡°Your grandfather needed to ensure that the boy is your child, and it was proven that he is,¡± Stan replied. For Isaac¡¯s part, he never doubted that the child was his ever since he found out that she had a child- he was the only man Irene had ever been with. On the other end, Stan hesitated for a while before saying, ¡°Sir, we don¡¯t have any leverage against him¡­¡± After all, Henry had disownedn and his immediate family to appease Isaac. They were not given anything from the family estate. Even so, Quincy Moore had used her savings to start a nightclub called ¡®Charmed¡® for her son,n. It was only because she tried to kill Isaac again that he destroyed it Right now, their only livelihood was rent on several factories and some shares ¡°Keep an eye on them constantly, and have them inform me the instant they notice anything. Also, you¡¯reing back to the office¨Cthere¡¯s something I need you to do,¡± Isaac said, havinge up with a n. just then. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied. Isaac had barely hung up when Irene asked impatiently, n Jefferson? Isn¡¯t he your cousin? Why would he take Tommy away?¡± Irene was aware that Henry had two sons. The elder was Andrew Jefferson, Isaac¡¯s father. The other was Greg Jeffeson, his uncle. Irene also knew that Greg and his family were not living at Jefferson Manor, but she was not aware about the blood grudges between them and Isaac. N?velDrama.Org owns this. Naturally, outsiders were not privy to their family squabble, and mentioning it at all hurt the family reputation. Drama like this would inevitably be gossip for everyone else once it leaks out! ¡°Because Tommy is my son,¡± Isaac said casually. Irene became even more confused just then. ¡°But if he¡¯s your cousin and you know he took Tommy, we should just ask-¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t the ce to talk. Let¡¯s go inside,¡± he said, putting an arm around Irene¡¯s shoulder. Irene had calmed considerably, since worrying is meaningless now. Instead, they should find out what was happening, and why It took Tommy. The first floor of the Light Group headquarters was very spacious. To the right was the front desk, several couches, and a water dispenser. At the center was a corridor leading to the elevators, and Isaac took one with Irene to the top floor. When they walked past Debbie¡¯s desk, Isaac told his secretary, ¡°Cancel everything on my schedule and get us two coffees.¡± Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± Debbie replied. Isaac kept a hand around Irene¡¯s waist as they headed to his office, and he opened the door. ¡°Go in.¡± Irene entered, and he closed the door behind her, freeing his cor and nonchntly throwing his jacket on the couch. Irene had been too anxious to notice before, but she saw the dark circles under his eyes just then. He had not been sleeping well¡­ Was he worried, too? Whatever the case might be, Tommy was his child. ¡°Do you love children, Isaac?¡± she asked, trying to ascertain his stance on Tommy. Isaac turned toward her with a thoughtful look, seemingly reading her thoughts right then. ¡°You mean, am I going to acknowledge Tommy as my own?¡± Irene pursed her lips, but her silence meant that it was exactly what she thought. ¡°Of course I would love my own children.¡± He walked up to her, his expression serious even as he pulled her by the wrist so that she could sit on the couch. ¡°Irene¨Cwhen we find Tommy, I¡¯ll marry you so that everyone knows you¡¯re my wife, and that he¡¯s my son.¡± Irene was actually surprised that he would suddenly say that. Her heart rippled, as if a boulder had been thrown into a cidke. ¡°You want to acknowledge Tommy as your legitimate son?¡± she asked. Isaac¡¯s eyes were so tender they could melt any woman¡¯s heart just then, and he quietly said, ¡°No, I want a family.¡± And in that family would be the woman he loved and their child. Irene saw the yearning and hope in his eyes-it was the most vulnerable she had ever seen him. The Runaway Groom Chapter 215 The Runaway Groom Chapter 215 Chapter 215 ¡°You and me?¡± Irene eximed in surprise. ¡°What about Kathy York?¡± She still remembered the indignation when she found out that he was messing around with Kathy Isaac was speechless. Why was she always capable of ruining the mood in an instant? ¡°Why do you keep mentioning people who don¡¯t matter? I¡¯ve already told Stan to transfer her somewhere won¡¯t see her, and there was nothing between us at all.¡± He reached out to touch her cheek, but she avoided his touch. ¡°You don¡¯t have to exin your affairs to me.¡± Isaac¡¯s hand froze in the air for a moment before he lowered it, and he asked, ¡°You don¡¯t want to give our child a family?¡± Irene certainly wanted Tommy to have both parents and to grow up in a happy family¨Cit was ideal for the boy¡¯s development. Moreover, she was in love with Isaac. Perhaps she should win him over, for Tommy¡¯s sake? And he was clearly proposing to her too. She understood now¨Cshe should not be running away, and instead should be striving for herself and Tommy! ¡°I do¡­ Also, why did your cousin take Tommy away?¡± ¡°Do you remember the night we first met? That was his mother, Quincy Moore, trying to kill me,¡± Isaac replied. He directly used their names, avoiding calling them ¡®aunt¡¯ or ¡®cousin¡® because they did not deserve it. Knock, knock, ¡°Come in,¡± Isaac called out when he heard the knock on the door. Debbie, his secretary, came in and left again after cing their coffees on the table. Isaac always took his coffee ck. The thick, raw vor was very bitter, but also invigorating. N?velDrama.Org owns this. Moreover, he had not been resting much over thest two days, and weariness showed on his face. Irene went behind him on the couch. ¡°I¡¯m a doctor-I can help you with your fatigue.¡± As she spoke, she put her fingers on his temples. Her fingertips were cold and soft, though Isaac stiffened a little at her touch. ¡°Is this too strong?¡± she asked as she massaged his temples. ¡°No,¡± Isaac rasped¨Cshe had great control on her strength, and she moved on to his shoulders and back, relieving him of considerable stress. ¡°You must have been exhausted,¡± she said. ¡°Your muscles are very stiff.¡± Isaac suddenly took her hand. ¡°Irene¡­¡± Irene was standing behind him, and his face as well as his neck seemed to form a straight line as she looked from above. She could also see his muscr chest underneath his shirt. Averting her eyes, she asked, ¡°Will they hurt Tommy?¡± Greg Jefferson¡¯s family were cold enough to make attempts on Isaac¡¯s life. It was clear how much they hated each other, and that in turn made Irene worried for Tommy. Nheless, Isaac held her hand, his thumb brushing gently against her skin. ¡°No, they¡¯ll hold him hostage so that I¡¯ll give up the family estate. They understand that if he gets hurt, they¡¯d get nothing and I¡¯ll definitely take their heads. That¡¯s why you can be sure that he¡¯ll be fine.¡± ¡°I¡¯m still worried. It was so difficult for me to bring him to this world, I cannot bear to lose him. I¡¯ll promise you anything if you can bring him back safely.¡± ¡°Including remarrying me?¡± he asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 216 The Runaway Groom Chapter 216 Chapter 216 Right after Isaac said that, he added, ¡°Not for Tommy¨Cbut for me, and only me.¡± He was referring to the bond between them. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene murmured softly, leaning downward to wrap her arms around his neck from behind, and nestled her cheek against his. She loved him, after all¨Cshe could get upset if he messed around with other women. She wanted him, not just so that Tommy had a happy family, but for herself too. That was when Stan returned. He was in too much of a hurry to knock, and realized that he had been reckless when he entered and found Irene having a tender moment with Isaac. Still, just as he was about to close the door, Isaac said, ¡°Wait for me at the conference room.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied, and closed the door behind him. Irene felt a little embarrassed, and released Isaac just then. ¡°Are you going to discuss how to save Tommy?¡± she asked ¡°Yeah Stay here if you have nothing else to do,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°I¡¯ll be right back once we¡¯re done talking.¡± However, Irene was tugging at her own sleeve as she kept her anxiety in check. She must not cause trouble now because Tommy had been taken away by another Jefferson. Isaac knew his own family well, and would therefore find a better solution Not imposing was the only thing she could do right now ¡°Okay You should go. She worked hard to look rxed, but her heart was still strung up. As Isaac left, Irene watched him go, and soon the door closed behind him. She stopped pretending the instant he was out of sight, her face drooping with worry. She had acted calm because she did not want to burden Isaac Taking a deep breath to ease her mood, she walked toward the curtain wall, where she could see the city. It was a bird¡¯s eye view, and one would miss nothing from up there¨Cbut she was too distracted to admire the view Debbie, Isaac¡¯s secretary, suddenly entered. ¡®Mr Jefferson asked me to show you around the office¡± It seems that Isaac was worried that her mind would go astray if she was left alone in his office, so he told his secretary to take her on a tour around the building Irene was not familiar with the ce either She would not have cared to learn before, but since taking over Spencer Holdings following her father¡¯s passing, she started to learn about business, and naturally agreed to another opportunity to add to her experience. Debbie first showed her around the floor they were on, exining theyout. ¡°There are just three offices on this floor, along with a conference room that could amodate over a hundred. My own desk is over there, near the lounge ¡®This is a guest room, where some of the other business owners would meet with Mr Jefferson As Irene looked, she was left thinking that major enterprises were simply different. In fact, Isaac¡¯s office was already muchrger than the conference room at Spencer Holdings. Even the guest room was half the size of that, let alone Light Group¡¯s conference room here. ¡°Let¡¯s head downstairs,¡± Debbie said as she pushed the button on the elevator. Arriving downstairs, she said, ¡°There¡¯s three departments here: our PR department, finance department, and a private team of legal advocates. The PR department is naturally to maintain the company¡¯s reputation, conduct promotional efforts, and resolve any situation that potentially affects our image. I¡¯m sure I don¡¯t have to borate about finance, and as for our private legal advocates, they offer legal advice and help handle any legal issues that may arise¡­¡± Irene nodded¨CSpencer Holdings did not have a private team of legal advocates, just a small financial department. She went with Debbie to take a look. Upstairs at the meeting room, Isaac was alone with Stan as thetter reported, ¡°I¡¯ve found out thatn has been really close with a womantely. The reason he ran into your grandfather at the hospital was because he was apanying the woman for a checkup, something he has never done. She is special to him.¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Isaac was leaning against his chair, keeping his hands nonchntly on the table. His wrinkled shirt was a far cry from his usual prim and proper nature, though it seemed to entuate his attractiveness as a steamy, intense man instead of taking anything away. ¡°Where¡¯s she from?¡± ¡°She¡¯s just an ordinary girl,¡± Stan replied. ¡°There¡¯s nobody of note in her familyn is basically her sugar daddy.¡± Isaac raised a brow. ¡°He still has the money to do that?¡± ¡°Greg would. I mean, they¡¯re not penniless, right?¡± Stan pointed out. Isaac, however, knewn¡¯s personality. He was prideful and a wastrel-Greg¡¯s wallet would never have been enough to support his spending. Moreover, he always considered himself special, and would never stoop so low that he would depend entirely on his family. Isaac suddenly seemed disgruntled even as he looked at Stan. ¡°Were you only looking into his women? Did you check for other sources of ie, especially illegal ones?¡± Stan did a double take. ¡°Are you saying that¡­ he has other businesses other than the nightclub we shut down?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 217 The Runaway Groom Chapter 217 Chapter 217 Isaac appeared solemn. ¡°What else would I be talking about? I want an answer before this evening With that, he rose to his feet, pausing for a moment when he remembered something ¡°Send me an email -show me what you have onn¡¯s sugar baby¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied Irene had yet to return when Isaac returned to his office, so he sat down before his desk, turned on his laptop, and checked his email. After scanning through the dossier Stan sent, he became pensive It appeared thatn had not had any affairs with other women for six months after meeting histest sugar baby This was certainly raren¡¯s rtionshipssted a month on average, but somehow he was with this one for six. He could actually be in love, but there was no telling for certain Meanwhile, Irene had returned from her tour, and strode in when she saw Isaac, asking. ¡®Is there a way to save Tommy?¡± ¡°Calm down,¡± Isaac said distractedly as he moved the cursor to delete the email, but Irene vaguely saw that it was a dossier on a woman. ¡°Who is that?¡± She asked. Isaac frowned¨Cher eyes were too sharp for her own good ¡®A woman ¡°Who?¡± Irene pressed when Isaac simply held out a hand to her Irene stared at his palm. The lines on it were distinct, and after a moment of hesitation, she put hers on his, and he firmly held on it, gently tugging so that she walked around his desk toward him. Then, pulling her by her waist, he made her sit on hisp Irene was a little ufortable since it was a verypromising position, not to mention that they were in his office. How embarrassing would it be if Debbie or his other employees entered and saw them? She tried to struggle a little, but Isaac only held on tighter, even leaning in to whisper beside her ear,¡± Don¡¯t move.¡± He then moved the cursor and clicked on the email. ¡°That isn¡¯s girlfriend.¡± Irene turned to look at him. ¡°Are we working on her?¡± Isaac shook his head¨Ceven if she was special ton, there was nothing decisive enough to be used againstn. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. However, he could still send a woman to approach her and get some information in turn. ¡°She andn are close, so I¡¯m just thinking that approaching her might help us find out where they are keeping Tommy for now.¡± ¡°I volunteer,¡± Irene offered. ¡°No,¡± Isaac refused right then. ¡°They know you-don¡¯t forget that their family had a hand in getting us married.¡± Irene blinked. ¡°But I never met them.¡± ¡°Yes, but ording to my sources, your father did.¡± ¡°My father?¡± Irene simply presumed that Lionel Spencer had wanted her to marry Isaac for his wealth and connection, and was certainly unaware thatn had a hand in the matter. In truth, even Isaac had no idea that Lionel had a deal withn¡¯s family, but Stan looked into the matter and found out that they made contact-even though Lionel had passed away since. ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter now,¡± he said as he tightened his embrace on her. ¡°I¡¯m thankful that they brought you to me.¡± Irene flushed-though Isaac¡¯s words were not cringeworthy, she still felt a little embarrassed¡­ And a little happy, too. Was he saying that he loved her? He had said as much before as well¡­ Shaking her head to clear her mind, she decided that her priority was to save Tommy. Suddenly feeling inspired, she said, n¡¯s family knows me, but not this woman, so I could still approach her. I just have to avoid meetingn and they won¡¯t realize that I¡¯m there¨Calso, I have to do something because Tommy has been taken from us, right?¡± When Isaac did not give a nod, she tugged at his cor, cajoling him, ¡°Please?¡± Her voice was hardly coquettish and her tugging almost stiff. Despite herck of charm, however, it simply worked on Isaac! Her willingness to act cute around him was enough. ¡°Fine.¡± And with that, they headed out! The Runaway Groom Chapter 218 The Runaway Groom Chapter 218 Chapter 218 Just as Isaac was about to get up, however, Irene moved the cursor and said, ¡°Wait¨Clet¡¯s get prepared as much as we can before we get started.¡± As she read through the dossier onn¡¯s sugar baby, Isaac watched her from the side, smiling faintly as he admired her prudence. And after she was done, Irene said, ¡°This might not be as hard as I thought.¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. ¡°How so?¡± he asked. ¡°Look here¨Cshe¡¯s a dance judge,¡± Irene pointed out ¡°I happen to know some dancing, and that counts as a conversation starter, I guess?¡± Isaac¡¯s eyes twinkled as he watched her. Indeed, Irene was quite versatile, having learned the piano, painting, dance, and medicine. ¡°Wait, I think my friend might know here,¡± Irene suddenly said as a person came to mind She took out her phone and took a photo of the woman, while pulling Isaac along ¡°Do you remember Mark Wickers? From Dorime Pharmaceuticals?¡± Isaac followed as he replied, ¡°I do. We¡¯re still partners Irene appeared a little excited just then ¡°His wife has a dance academy, and most students there are involved inpetitions. They might be acquainted¡± Fortunately, Ms. Lang had not forgotten about Irene. ¡°Why the sudden visit? It had certainly been a while.¡± When Irene arrived at her dance studio, she warmly invited her to her office,ining a little as she poured her a ss of water ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Irene exined ¡°But I¡¯ve been busy, and I haven¡¯t forgotten about you¡± ¡°Here.¡± Ms. Lang smiled as she handed her the ss of water. Irene took it and ced it on the table, and took out the phone to show Ms. Lang. ¡°Do you know this person?¡± Ms. Lang got a good look and asked, ¡°I do. Her name is Robin Lynd.¡± Irene became a little thrilled just then. ¡°Are you close?¡± Ms. Lang shook her head, ¡°We do meet often atpetitions, but never spoke much privately.¡± Since Ms. Lang had many students who took part inpetitions to be graded, she and Robin were more than simple acquaintances now. ¡°I¡¯d like to meet her. Would you mind introducing us? Also, would you happen to know her interests?¡± Irene pressed, wanting to know more right then. ¡°I heard that she¡¯s very interested in theater,¡± Ms. Lang replied, staring at Irene just then. ¡°Why¡¯d you ask?¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Just trying to make new friends.¡± Still, Ms. Lang was smart enough to tell that it was not that simple-but she would not ask if Irene did not want to tell her. ¡°How about dinner together? That¡¯d be easier for introductions.¡± Irene, however, thought that it would sound like a deliberate setup-a chance meeting as colleagues would be more suitable and less suspicious. Ms. Lang saw that she was concerned, and said, ¡°Or perhaps you could y courier, and deliver the list of entrants from my academy to the judgemittee?¡± Irene¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Ms. Lang smiled, picked up thepiled list from her desk, and handed it to her. ¡°I¡¯m counting on you.¡± Knowing that Ms. Lang was going the extra mile to help her, she said, ¡°I owe you one.¡± ¡°Now, now¨CI still remember that you helped me before,¡± Ms. Lang said. ¡°Alright.¡± Irene grinned. ¡°I will be going now.¡± Ms. Lang could see that Irene was in a hurry, and so did not try to stop her. ¡°Okay. Also, the judge committee will provide certifications after the submission of the list. You don¡¯t have toe back to deliver it if you¡¯re too busy, though.¡± Irene was certainly grateful that Ms. Lang was so thoughtful. ¡°I am busy-let¡¯s have dinner together some day, my treat.¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Ms. Lang grinned. With the list of entrants in hand, Irene left the academy. Isaac was waiting in his car outside, but Irene did not get in. Standing outside, she told him, ¡°I need to head to themunity arts center. I can take a taxi if you¡¯re busy.¡± Isaac said, ¡°Get in. I¡¯ll drive you there.¡± He was busy, but he would always have time to drive her around. Irene did so, and put on her seatbelt¡­. The Runaway Groom Chapter 219 The Runaway Groom Chapter 219 Chapter 219 Isaac asked, ¡°Can you do this?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry I won¡¯t cause trouble,¡± Irene said confidently. ¡°I won¡¯t endanger myself even though I want to save Tommy. Moreover, I don¡¯t think anyone would notice someone like me.¡± She was basically telling Isaac not to worry since she would be fine. Isaac certainly knew that she was smart, but she was still a woman¨Cshe would not win in the face of brutes who could not be reasoned with. ¡°Don¡¯t be reckless.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± she replied. With that, the car turned silent and neither spoke. Irene wanted to speak, but could not put any words together. Soon, they were at themunity arts center. ¡°Drive safe,¡± she said as she alighted. Isaac watched her for a moment, and said, ¡°Okay¡± After Irene entered the building, she was at a loss on where to go. She asked the front desk, and they showed her where she should go to hand over the list. Luckily for Irene, Robin Lynd was on duty, and sitting in front of aputer.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org Knocking the door to draw her attention, Irene exined, ¡°Hello. I¡¯m here to submit a list of entrants for a dancepetition?¡± ¡°You can give it to me,¡± Robin replied ¡ª She did not have makeup on a far cry from her appearance at the hospital. As a matter of fact, she had just wrapped up a stage act that day, and did not have time to clean off all the makeup from her face. Ian had just found out that she had not been taking her morning after pills, and told her to get checked in case of a pregnancy. Irene passed her the list, but before she could speak, Robin¡¯s phone started to ring. Robin picked it up and started to head outside. Seeing that Irene was still there, she said, ¡°You may go now¨Cjust leave the list with me.¡± With that, she headed for the nearest stairs. Irene pretended to leave, but tiptoed behind Robin toward the stairs as well. Robin was heading downstairs as she spoke over the phone, and eventually reached the back door, where she foundn waiting by a flower patio. Irene hid behind the door and watched them¨Cit was her first time seeingn. n? What brought you here?¡± She smiled as she walked up to him, clearly happy to see him. ¡°I¡¯m breaking up with you,¡±n said shortly. Robin was caught off guard right then, and her mind seemed to nk out while her body suddenly turned cold ¡°Why? I¡¯m not pregnant! Why are you breaking up with me?¡± she cried. However, she did not understand that it was not as ifn hated children-he forbade her from getting pregnant because she was not fit to be his wife! It was a hassle to exin, so he went with the simple exnation that he hated children. Robin was just naive enough to believe him. ¡°Nothing much. I¡¯m just sick of you now,¡±n said coolly. Robin was earnestly in love with him, and begged, ¡°Please,n. I¡¯ll do anything you say-¡± ¡°I hate clingy women,¡±n growled and started toward the car he parked by the road. Robin quickly ran up, grabbing his arm and sobbing. ¡°Please,n! Was it something I did? You just have to tell me¨Cplease don¡¯t do this to me.¡± n¡­¡± Robin tried to reach him again, son started to be a little more forceful as he shoved her away, knocking her to the ground. Tears welled in her eyes as she looked up. ¡°Are you really breaking up with me?¡± ¡°Yes,¡±n said coolly. As he headed for his car, he got a call. ¡°You found one? Is she reliable? Are you sure she¡¯s delivered a child before?¡± The word ¡®child¡¯ naturally caught Irene¡¯s attention! The Runaway Groom Chapter 220 The Runaway Groom Chapter 220 Chapter 220 Irene wondered to herself ifn was talking about Tommy just then, but she was too far to hear what he was saying clearly-she just happened to be able to catch him saying ¡®child.¡± He was looking for a woman who had recently given birth because Tommy had been crying terribly and refusing to drink form milk. After reading various articles online,n concluded that the boy wanted breastmilk, which was why he was looking for a woman who wasctating and could feed Tommy, so that the boy would stop crying. In truth, Tommy was crying because the form milkn was feeding him was from another brand. The change in vor did not suit him, but he would have kept feeding if he was fed the original brand. As he hung up and got in his car, he nced at Robin, who was still standing nearby and sighed He wanted to show concern, but was afraid that would give her hope, and so had to cruelly drive off, leaving her there. Meanwhile, Irene was flustered Wasn talking about her child? Wasn going to check on Tommy now? However, there was no way she could chase after a car on foot. Taking a snapshot ofn¡¯s car te, she sent it to Isaac, captioning it [Can you look for this car? It¡¯sn Jefferson¡¯s, and I think he¡¯s going to see Tommy.] Isaac was speaking with Stan in his own office at the Light Group headquarters when his phone rang. He picked up and raised a brow when he saw the text from Irene, and replied. [Got it.] ¡°What is it?¡± Stan asked. Isaac stared at him in silence¨Che had told him to keep track of Greg Jefferson¡¯s family, even their maids, so that they did not miss a thing. One of their people reported thatn was looking for women who recently delivered babies, and Isaac had no idea why at first. Somehow, Irene¡¯s text gave him a spark of inspirationn¡¯s search must have something to do with Tommy. ¡°Tell your people to keep a close eye onn,¡± he said. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied Meanwhile, Irene walked up to Robin and told her, ¡°You¡¯re bleeding. Let me help you.¡± Feeling as if someone had been peeking at her vulnerable moment, Robin promptly wiped the tears on her face and refused her coolly. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± ¡°Look, I didn¡¯t mean to spy on you, and I¡¯m notughing either. I¡¯m a doctor¨CI¡¯m sure I can help you,¡± Irene said evenly, without being particrly sympathetic or eager to please. She just wanted to help, and started to leave since she was refused. ¡°Well, since you don¡¯t need me, I¡¯m going.¡± Robin felt too awkward to call out to her, and started to limp toward the stairs. Still, she was too distracted and sprained her foot. ¡°Ouch!¡± Irene returned to her and helped her to her feet. ¡°Sorry, force of habit.¡± Robin pursed her lips. ¡°Thank you¨CI was being mean, please don¡¯t hold it against me.¡± It was natural for her to loseposure, since she was just dumped and her mood was certainly unpleasant, and Irene understood that. There was a first aid kit in Robin¡¯s office, and Irene helped her with a simple bandage over the scrape on her knee. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Seeing that she worked with deft precision and experience, Robin eximed, ¡°Wait, you really are a doctor?¡± Irene chuckled. ¡°Of course. Would you like my credentials?¡± ¡°If you are, why would you be delivering Ms. Lang¡¯s list of entrants? It should be her or maybe one of her fellow instructors-I don¡¯t recall meeting you before either.¡± Robin appeared even more curious just then. Why would a doctor show up at amunity arts center? ¡°I¡¯m just helping out,¡± Irene replied without hesitation. ¡°Ms. Lang is busy, so she had to ask me.¡± Robin nodded. The Runaway Groom Chapter 221 The Runaway Groom Chapter 221 Chapter 221 Irene asked, ¡°Are you alright?¡± Robin could tell what she was referring to, and bitterly said, ¡°I haven¡¯t been with him for that long, but we used to be happy. He would always watch my theater shows and treat me to gourmet food. We hold hands when we go shopping, and I¡¯d lean on his shoulder at the cinema¡­¡± The memories left her eyes welling with tears. ¡°I mean, I know that we don¡¯t suit each other¨Che¡¯s a child of the Jefferson family, while I¡¯m just some unknown thespian. I know we wouldn¡¯t go all the way, but¡­ It¡¯s just so sudden! I can¡¯t take it, even if I knew this was inevitable.¡± Irene listened attentively, and asked gingerly, ¡°But why would he suddenly break up with you? Maybe he met someone else? You know how changeable men can be.¡± Robin thought about it. ¡°I don¡¯t think so¡­ He¡¯s actually been quite busytely.¡± ¡°What with?¡± Irene tried to sound casual. ¡°I¡¯m not sure¡­¡± This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org. Still, Robin suddenly realized that Irene was asking aboutn, and quickly became wary. ¡°Why¡¯d you ask?¡± Irene made herself look pensive just then. ¡°No reason in particr¡­ I just feel a little empathetic toward you, since I¡¯ve been dumped like that too. I guess I¡¯m eager to find out if your boyfriend was a scumbag like my ex.¡± Just knowing the fact that Irene had been dumped allowed Robin to see her as a kindred spirit just then, bridging the gap between them¨Ceven losing all wariness just then. ¡°How long did it take you to recover?¡± she asked. ¡°Oh, you won¡¯t feel a thing soon enough¡­ with the help of a little alcohol along the way,¡± Irene simply said. It felt like an epiphany for Robin. ¡°Yes, time heals everything¡­¡± ¡°But I think I heard something about another woman, I think? Don¡¯t you think that he¡¯s actually just cheating?¡± Irene asked, once again directing their focus onn. She came here for information in the first ce anyway. Now that Robin had calmed down, she remembered that she did hearn say that over the phone. ¡°No, but I guess I must find out.¡± ¡°Would you like my help?¡± Irene asked. Robin stared at her for a moment. ¡°We¡¯re not that close¡­¡± ¡°We can be friends if you don¡¯t mind. But if you feel-¡± ¡°Of course!¡± Robin eximed, cutting her short. Right now, she needed a pir of guidance, especially from someone like Irene who had experienced breakups ¡°By the way, what¡¯s your name?¡± Robin asked. ¡°I¡¯m Irene Spencer.¡± ¡°Nice to meet you. I¡¯m Robin Lynd. Hold on for a moment, I¡¯ll apply for leave,¡± Robin said, eager to find out whyn wanted to break up with her right then. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. Soon, Robin had settled matters with her office, and they both took a taxi to go look forn. They headed ton¡¯s home, but he was not around. Robin narrowed her eyes. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s there?¡± ¡°Where?¡± Irene asked right then. ¡°There¡¯s this underground casino he¡¯s managing. Not many people know about it, and he¡¯s only taken me there twice,¡± Robin said. Irene¡¯s eyes widenedn had a casino? ¡°Do you know where it is?¡± she asked. Robin nodded. ¡°Yeah,¡± she said, and told the driver, ¡°Southport, please.¡± Irene was even more shocked at that. ¡°It¡¯s at the port?¡° The Runaway Groom Chapter 222 The Runaway Groom Chapter 222 Chapter 222 Robin stared at Irene. ¡°Why are you so surprised?¡± Irene quicklyposed herself and smiled, ¡°Well, I¡¯m just a doctor who only has dancing as a hobby. I haven¡¯t ever gambled even though I¡¯m an adult, so an underground casino is both exciting and new to me ¡®Look, don¡¯t tell anyone,¡± Robin told her. ¡°This sort of business is illicit, and it¡¯s an indictment if the authorities find out.¡± Content held by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°My lips are sealed,¡± Irene said, but her tone soon changed sharply. ¡°Wait, are you still being considerate after he dumped you?¡± ¡°We used to be happy and that¡¯s all that matters,¡± Robin quietly said, her tone conveying helplessness and misery. ¡°I don¡¯t want to see him in jail even if we¡¯ve broken up¡­¡± ¡°Oh, but didn¡¯t you say that he is from the Jefferson family? They have both power and money, don¡¯t they? *Irene asked while feigning ignorance. ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but I just know that he has a serious grudge against his cousin,¡± Robin replied. ¡°That¡¯s why his casino is not legal and he cannot afford to operate in broad daylight. He would be fine as long as his cousin doesn¡¯t mess with him.¡± Irene lowered her gaze, knowing that the ¡®cousin¡® was Isaac She also remembered Isaac mentioning thatn¡¯s mother had made an attempt on his life, and resorting to murder could only mean that there was no chance of peace between them! Naturally, it was useful information for Isaac, so Irene pretended to be fiddling with her phone as she texted him, while telling him, ¡°Don¡¯t do anything for now. I¡¯ve managed to make friends with Robin Lynd, so I will go in for a look first¡± Any move should be ndestine before they found Tommy, or the child would be in danger ifn was pushed too far Saving Tommy was a priority. On the other hand, Isaac¡¯s expression turned gloomy when he received Irene¡¯s text. He already suspectedn had another ie source aside from his family, and it had to be illegal. While Stan came up with nothing from his ongoing investigation, Irene had already found out about the underground casino. He was certainly displeased with Stan¡¯s growing ipetence. He texted back: [Be careful] Naturally, he was also worried that Irene was going to the casino, and things would get dangerous ifn saw her Irene texted back (Got it] With that, she put away her phone. ¡°What do you think I should say if I see him? Robin asked, suddenly feeling a little worried that she was being impulsive Irene quickly goaded her. ¡°You¡¯re breaking up anyway, so why not make it a clean one instead of being wishy-washy? You have a right to know whether he no longer loves you or was just cheating on you. I mean, unless you don¡¯t want to know the reason?¡± If Robin backs off now, she would not be able to find the casino. Thankfully, Robin thought that Irene was being reasonable. She had the right, did she not? They soon arrived at Southport, and they alighted after Irene paid the driver. There were mostly cargo ships around them, since it was a cargo port, with many containers kept at the docks. Naturally, Irene could see that a casino could be hidden around a ce like this. ¡°Is the casino inside a container?¡± she joked. ¡°Or maybe one of the ships?¡± Robin nced at her and said, ¡°It¡¯s in a container on a ship.¡± Irene was speechless, but there was no question that no one would find out that way. ¡°I¡¯m not sure, butn told me that he won¡¯t be afraid of inspections this way,¡± Robin exined. ¡°If anyone finds out, he just has to sail the ship into international waters, and no one would be able to do anything about it.¡± Irene¡¯s expression cooled slightly. ¡°Yeah, the idea is perfect.¡± Gambling was illegal, butn coulde up with such a gimmick to hide his operations. It just goes to show how cunning he could be. The Runaway Groom Chapter 223 The Runaway Groom Chapter 223 Chapter 223 If Robin had not told her, Irene would never have thought that there was a casino hidden in this cargo port. ¡°Come on, I can take you there,¡± Robin said, leading her to a small boat. There were two men on it, and the boat was meant to ferry passengers to the casino. Both men had seen Robin before, so they let her on. However, they stopped Irene since they never saw her. ¡± You¡¯re not allowed here.¡± ¡°She¡¯s with me,¡± Robin said. ¡°She¡¯s a friend of mine, and she knows about the casino. Your boss told me to never breathe a word about it and I never did, and I¡¯m here to look for him. Is he in?¡± They had to let Irene as well since Robin vouched for her, but¡­ ¡°Your phones, please.¡± Robin knew the rules, and quickly passed hers to them. Irene, however, needed hers to contact Isaac-once she surrendered it, she could not reach him even if she finds Tommy. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Sorry, but it¡¯s the rules. They don¡¯t want anyone making calls from the ship.¡± Robin exined when she saw her hesitance. Irene therefore had to give in. ¡°Okay.¡± She turned off her phone and handed it over, and the two men finally started the ship after they did! They were sailing for over half an hour when Irene saw a cargo ship nearby, stacked full of shipping containers. ¡°We¡¯ve arrived,¡± Robin said just then. N?velDrama.Org owns this. Irene frowned. ¡°That¡¯s a lot of containers¡­¡± She thought a couple would be enough, but there must be over twenty on that ship! The crew, under the impression that Irene was a hick, started to brag proudly, ¡°She could take over 300 people, or 400 if needed. It¡¯s a slow day, though, so it¡¯s just over 100 for today.¡± Irene was left gaping. Hundreds of people frequented that ce? It certainly deserved to be called a casino, just as one must admit that it takes balls to operate something of that scale! And Ian certainly had a pair! As they closed in on the cargo ship, the crew brought out a nk that would be used as a bridge. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Robin told Irene then. She nodded, and they carefully walked over the nk. Once on the ship, however, Irene said, ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you here. You should go look for your boyfriend.¡± ¡°You¡¯re noting with me?¡± Robin asked. ¡°I think having a stranger would make things awkward,¡± Irene exined. ¡°Just ask him what¡¯s going on, and we can leave. I¡¯ll wait here for you.¡± Robin thought so too, since this was between her and Ian. Nodding, she said, ¡°Okay. Thanks foring here with me.¡± Irene smiled, but felt a little guilty inside for tricking Robin. She was quite naive and easily believed Irene, but Irene was exploiting her trust. Also, Irene was not going with Robin because she was worried Ian would recognize her, and realized that she came on board as a spy! Taking a deep breath, Robin headed toward the containers, while Irene went to work as well. The ship was enormous, but most of the people were 1 inside the containers. She peeked inside one of the containers to find a dozen men around the table, and a woman dressed like a bunny standing in the middle. She was the dealer and was waiting as the men ced their bets before rolling the roulette. There were many other babes like her, dealing out cards to many others at different tables, with stacks of chips ced before them. Irene quietly left, since she did not find any clues she needed just then¡­ until she heard crying! The Runaway Groom Chapter 224 The Runaway Groom Chapter 224 Chapter 224 Irene¡¯s expression stiffened. Where was the cryinging from? She quickly followed the voice, and arrived at a red shipping container. Robin, Ian, and the woman who had been crying were inside! Irene frowned¨Cthe woman seemed young. Was she the woman who had recently delivered a baby, whom Ian was asking for? ¡°Who told you toe, huh?¡± Ian was scowling and ring viciously at Robin. The reason he had broken up with her was because he was worried Isaac would turn his crosshairs on her, and then track her down to this ship. But here she was! He had every reason to be furious! Robin, however, did not understand that she simply believed that he was angry from the embarrassment of being caught cheating. And it was the first time she had ever seen him flip out! ¡°You¡¯re dumping me because of her?¡± She could not help sobbing-when she entered the container, she found the woman topless and facing Ian. This was his office, and why else would she be undressing? Any idiot could tell! She felt as if her heart was breaking¨Cshe never expected that he had really cheated on her! ¡°Yes,¡± Ian said, not bothering to exin. Robin burst into tears, and she felt like she was crumbling. ¡°How could you do this to me?¡± She sobbed, and firmly wiped her tears away. ¡°Fine. If you want a break up, let¡¯s break up¨Csince you can get yourself another woman, I can get myself a man too!¡± With that, she started to leave the container. Ian, however, could not stand the thought of her seeing another man. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org Striding forward and catching her wrist, he growled, ¡± Don¡¯t be so petty.¡± Robin wheeled on her, and shot back, ¡°I¡¯m not¨Cwhy can¡¯t I hook up with someone new when you already did?¡± Ian, who never exined himself to anyone actually cracked right then. ¡°Look, I asked her to be a wet nurse. She was just undressing for milking-¡± ¡°What would you need a wet nurse for?¡± Robin asked. That was Ian¡¯s limit, and he released Robin right then. In her eyes, that move was a silent acknowledgement of his misdeed! Robin felt despair right then, and her tone turned icy. ¡°I never knew that you¡¯re such a scumbag. I must be delusional to think that I was special!¡± Ian did not bother to answer, ¡°Well, now you know. Leave and nevere back.¡± Robin smiled. ¡°I won¡¯t.¡± With that, she strode out of the container. Ian did not stop her, and instead directed hisckeys to take the wet nurse away. Robin watched as he left, feeling cold inside and could not helpughing at herself! What was she expecting? She wiped away her tears. Love was not everything -it was not as if she would die from being dumped. Taking a deep breath, she walked up to the deck and remembered then that she hade with Irene. Was Irene not supposed to wait for her here? Where was she? Robin started looking, calling out for Irene as she did. ¡°Irene? Irene Spencer?¡± That was when Ian heard her. The Runaway Groom Chapter 225 The Runaway Groom Chapter 225 Chapter 225 Striding toward Robin, Ian demanded, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡± ¡°Irene Spencer. What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Robin replied. N?velDrama.Org owns this. Ian narrowed his eyes. ¡°She¡¯s onboard?!¡± Robin had no idea why he was glowering, and exined, She just came here with me. She¡¯s a friend, and she won¡¯t tell anyone about this ce. We¡¯re leaving once shees back-¡± ¡°A friend?¡± Ian¡¯s brow was twitching. ¡°Do you even know who she is?!¡± Robin felt a foreboding sensation just then. ¡°We just met ¡°Just met?!¡± Ian growled through his teeth. ¡°And you already brought her aboard?¡± ¡°Who is she? Why are you so upset?¡± Robin asked then- was Irene Spencer someone special? ¡°She¡¯s Isaac¡¯s wife!¡± Ian bellowed, and took a moment to calm himself. ¡°Well, whatever. Thank goodness I found out early and this didn¡¯t get worse. She¡¯s not getting away as long as she¡¯s on board.¡± Robin froze. ¡°She approached me¡­ On purpose?¡± ¡°What do you think?¡± Ian retorted. ¡°I dumped you because I was hoping Isaac and his people wouldn¡¯te after you. Guess I was still toote, but no matter. Now that the cat is out of the bag, I can tell you that Irene Spencer was using you to find her baby.¡± ¡°You took her baby?¡± Robin gasped in surprise. ¡°Yes, and he¡¯s everything to me. As long as I have him, I can force Isaac to give me everything he has even Light Group.¡± ¡°And that woman just now¡­¡± ¡°Like I said, a wet nurse,¡± Ian answered simply, before adding, ¡°The baby was having a crying fit. I needed her to feed him.¡± Robin came to her senses then. ¡°It was all just a misunderstanding?¡± ¡°What do you think?¡± Ian sighed¨Cnow that Robin understood that she had been targeted, he did not have to break up with her either. ¡°Come with me,¡± he said, and directed his crew, ¡°Find that woman!¡± The ship was only thatrge¨Cthere was no ce to hide. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Robin apologized to him then. ¡°I¡¯ve brought trouble to your doorstep.¡± Ian put a hand on her waist. ¡°Actually, you didn¡¯t. Once we get her, I have two bargaining chips against Isaac.¡± Still, Robin felt like she owed him because she caused him trouble. After all, he was trying to protect her when he dumped her, a thought which left her feeling guilty. She med her own recklessness¨Cshe should have stayed calm. Irene could swim, and had hid herself bytching herself to one of the lifebuoys tied up over the hull of the cargo ship. However, when Ian¡¯s crew failed to find her on the ship, they thought of the hull as well, and found her in no time at all. ¡°Over here!¡± one of the crew members yelled, and hispanions were there soon. ¡°Let¡¯s go look,¡± Ian said, bringing Robin along. His crew did not capture Irene immediately, since she would not be able to hold on for that long¨Cthey simply stood aside, watching andughing at her. As Ian looked down at her as well, he smiled. ¡°Did you think you would get away in the middle of the ocean? You came here on your own, so don¡¯t me me if I prove to be less than gentlemanly.¡± With that, he gestured for the crew to pull her aboard. Irene nced at the sea beneath. She would break something if she jumped and it was too far to swim a Please Cooperate with me..I¡¯M Forced to do so..Thanks Listen to the rest of the chapter in audio¡­Because Some websites are Copying my work¡­. Audio yer The Runaway Groom Chapter 226 The Runaway Groom Chapter 226 Chapter 226 Henry had boarded the cargo ship at some point in time, and bellowed at Robin, stopping her just as she was about to hit Irene. When Robin turned and saw him, she remembered how respectful Ian was around him. Knowing who he was, she refrained from hitting Irene, and gingerly retreated behind Ian. As Henry walked toward them on his crutch, he growled at Ian, ¡°Come with me.¡± Ian naturally could not refuse his elder, but before he left, he gestured for his crew to keep Irene under their custody and prevent her escape. Once they were gone, the crew took her to another container. As they stepped inside Ian¡¯s office, Henry gave him a look and said, ¡°Release Irene and her child now. There is still time-¡± ¡°Time for what, Grandfather?¡± Ian asked in return, cutting him short. Then, before Henry could answer, he said, ¡°Do you think you could convince Isaac to step down?¡± Henry¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Let them go, and I¡¯ll be able to do it. He¡¯ll respect me as long as I¡¯m alive.¡± Naturally, Ian refused. ¡°I¡¯m your grandson, and my father¡¯s your son! But you gave everything to Isaac because he¡¯s your favorite! My grievance, and the conflict in the family, is all because of you!¡± Moneypenny could not stop himself just then. ¡°Master Jefferson did so because your mother-¡± ¡°Stop,¡± Henry growled, stopping him just in time. ¡°Since you¡¯re being so obstinate, I have nothing to say to you. You¡¯ll be solely responsible for what¡¯sing to you now. Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Of course I will!¡± Ian certainly knew what he was doing, and the oue was naturally his to bear. He would not apologize for what he did either! ¡°In that case, there¡¯s nothing more to say.¡± Henry headed outside then. Moneypenny had no idea why Henry refused to tell Ian what his mother had done. ¡°Sir¡­¡± ¡°Stop it.¡± Henry raised a hand, gesturing for his silence. Moneypenny had to follow suit! Still, after they left the cargo ship, Moneypenny finally asked his question. ¡°Sir, didn¡¯t you go on the ship to look for the boy? He¡¯s right there, along with Ms. Irene-¡± ¡°Moneypenny,¡± Henry interrupted him. ¡°What do you think my family needs to prosper?¡± Moneypenny did not hesitate in his answer. ¡°A leader who ispetent, has foresight, and moves swiftly and decisively. A man of such caliber would ensure asting dynasty¡­¡± Catching on to Henry¡¯s intentions just then, Moneypenny gaped. ¡°Are you saying that you want to find out who¡¯s better among the two?¡± ¡°Ian deserves a chance.¡± Henry said earnestly ¨C he was a Jefferson after all, and whether he could im the right to rule was all on him. Henry had decided to refrain from meddling this time, just to see if Ian stood a chance against Isaac. Ifn won, it would not be a bad option to have him be the next family head¨Cthat was only fair. Personal merit will decide the victor! ¡°With two leverages against Master Isaac, Master Ian does seem to have the advantage of the moment.¡± Moneypenny pointed out. ¡°It does seem that way,¡± Henry replied. ¡°But it¡¯s too early to say who is the victor. ¡°With two leverages against Master Isaac, Master Ian does seem to have the advantage of the moment.¡± Moneypenny pointed out. ¡°It does seem that way,¡± Henry replied. ¡°But it¡¯s too early to say who is the victor. Meanwhile, Ian¡¯s crew had taken Irene to another container, inside of which was a simple bed arranged Please Cooperate with me..I¡¯M Forced to do so..Thanks Listen to the rest of the chapter in audio¡­Because Some websites are Copying my work¡­. Audio yer The Runaway Groom Chapter 227 The Runaway Groom Chapter 227 Chapter 227 Irene was shaking with rage. She put down Tommy and suddenly dashed toward Ian. She moved so quickly that before anyone noticed or could move to stop her, she had reached him and pped him across the face! The ensuing smack seemed to echo in the container, and everyone froze! Irene had struck Ian so hard her palm turned numb¡ªshe had struck him as hard as she could! ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± Robin yelled, running up and shoving Irene when she saw her beloved being struck. ¡°How dare you touch him?!¡± ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I?!¡± Irene¡¯s eyes were red. ¡°I will kill him if anything happens to Tommy!¡± ¡°And I¡¯ll kill you if you do!¡± Robin yelled back, her eyes bulging furiously. After learning that Ian had broken up with her just to protect her, she fell deeper in love and was now willing to N?velDrama.Org owns this. kill for him! That was when Isaac walked up, pushing Robin aside, and strode toward Irene with the look of a frenzied beast. Irene took a step back warily. ¡°Take it up with Isaac Jefferson if you have a beef with him! Do you think you¡¯re a man, abducting an infant?¡± Ian simply narrowed his eyes. The red palm print on his face was ever distinct as he smiled. ¡°No one¡¯s ever pped me. Did you think I¡¯d ? forgive you?¡± Irene reared her chin at him, not yielding despite her clear disadvantage. ¡°Did you, after you hurt my child?¡± Ian cracked his knuckles just then, his veins bulging over the back of his hand, andughed despite his rage. ¡°Fine, I don¡¯ty a finger on women anyway ¨C but I can make you wish you were dead, while humiliating Isaac at the same time.¡± Irene felt the ominous intent, and had to suppress her terror right then. ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°Paying you back for the p,¡± Ian said darkly, and turned toward his crew. ¡°You can have her, boys¨C that¡¯s a pretty face if I ever saw one. Show her some proper love now, because you¡¯re having the honor of bagging a woman who slept with Isaac Jefferson!¡± With that, he put a hand around Robin¡¯s waist and said, Let¡¯s go.¡± Just as he stepped outside, he stopped and told the crew, Don¡¯t disappoint me, and remember to record it. I have to show everyone that Isaac¡¯s woman is avable to the public¨Cand he¡¯s nothing but a cuck!¡± ¡°We¡¯re rted, Ian Jefferson!¡± Irene snapped. She was attempting to make Ian eat his words, even though she knew there was not much of a chance ¨C she was just desperate. To no one¡¯s surprise, Ian simply snorted. ¡°So what if we are? Isaac and I stand apart. Did you think you carry weight around here?¡± Ian¡¯s crew leered and ogled her then, as if ready to lunge and devour her at any moment, leaving her retreating in fear. ¡°Wait, what about Henry?¡± Irene asked, suddenly remembering about the eldest Jefferson. ¡°Who, my grandfather?¡± Ianughed in disdain. ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter who you cry to for help -I¡¯m the alpha and the omega on this ship, and that old man¡¯s already left! || || Please Cooperate with me..I¡¯M Forced to do so..Thanks Listen to the rest of the chapter in audio¡­Because Some websites are Copying my work¡­. The Runaway Groom Chapter 228 The Runaway Groom Chapter 228 Chapter 228 Panicking, Irene tried to kick her feet, but Ian¡¯s crew was keeping herpletely restrained. As terror seized her, she abandoned all dignity and shrieked, ¡°Help!¡± N?velDrama.Org owns this. She could not stay calm in this situation¨Cthere were so many men around her, leering at her hungrily. She would not survive! ¡°Go on, scream. It just excites me more,¡± the man said as he took off his shirt, but just as he moved on top of her, the container door swung open with a loud bang! The crew leader snapped indignantly, ¡°Who the f-¡± A dark blur shed before his eyes before he could finish or see what it was. Then, he was sent flying, hovering in the air for a moment before crashing onto the sidewall panel of the container! While the crew leader was clutching his stomach, curling up and groaning in agony, the rest of the crew were yelling and snapping at another group of men who suddenly showed up. ¡°Don¡¯t you know where you are? Or who you¡¯re messing with?¡± Stan Hill stepped forward, growling icily, ¡°You are the ones who know nothing. None of you are getting away!¡± The men he brought rushed forward at his order, overwhelming and subduing the crew in no time at all. Suddenly, the container was even more crowded, and audible groans of pain could soon be heard everywhere. Irene got up, suddenly feeling warmth over her shoulders even as she found Isaac. Despite his seemingly calm demeanor, he was seething- he was simply keeping it under wraps. Irene could see the hurt and fear in his eyes. Was that because of her? However, she did not have the time to dwell on it- sliding her hands into the sleeves of the jacket he draped over her, she leaped off the wooden crates and scooped up Tommy in her arms. The boy was reacting again due to themotion ¡ª the sleeping pill must have worn off. He was not crying, but his round eyes were wide open and darting everywhere as if he was studying his surroundings. Irene tried to stop her tears, but they were flowing freely and trickling onto little Tommy¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡± she rasped, ming herself so much for not taking care of him, while feeling spite for Ian who drugged him. She suddenly looked up to find Isaac studying Tommy. His eyes were burning with emotions, but his hand was shaking even as he reached out to touch Tommy, and he could hardly stop the swelling excitement within himself. Please Cooperate with me..I¡¯M Forced to do so..Thanks Listen to the rest of the chapter in audio¡­Because Some websites are Copying my work¡­. The Runaway Groom Chapter 229 The Runaway Groom Chapter 229 Chapter 229 As Irene followed Isaac out of the container, Ian rushed to the scene, having heard themotion. He glowered when he saw that Isaac had saved his wife and child. ¡°How did you get here?¡± He was convinced that Isaac would never find this ce¡ª he was too used to Stan¡¯s style in reconnaissance, which had helped him elude them thus far. That naturally left him confused¨Cif he had managed to stay out of Stan¡¯s range, how did they get here?! Robin remembered something then, and turned toward Irene. ¡°It was you, wasn¡¯t it? You were fiddling with your phone on the way here. Did you leak our location?¡± Ian snarled right then, ¡°You ruined all my hard work!¡± ¡°Hard work?¡± Irene red at him icily. ¡°You deserve what¡¯sing at you for all that you¡¯ve done!¡± Robin realized that she had ruined Ian¡¯s n, and felt sorry for him while she red at Irene with spite. If she had not naively believed Irene and gotten exploited as a result, Ian¡¯s n would not have fallen through, and his casino would not have been exposed! She clenched her fist. On the other hand, Ian was not giving in despite the circumstances he certainly did not think that he had lost. He could still turn this around! ¡°It¡¯s too early to think that you¡¯ve won.¡± He raised his chin proudly. Isaac kept one hand around Irene as he straightened. His shadow extended over the deck, magnifying his sinister presence. ¡°Whatever you say. I¡¯ll just mind my own business,¡± he growled. ¡°Stan Hill.¡± Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. Stan quickly walked up to him. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson?¡± ¡°That man who touched my wife¨Cfeed him to the fishes. Isaac¡¯s tone and visage was icy, while Stan understood his orders right away. The crew leader was too hurt to stand, and had to be dragged out of the container. ¡°Hey, pal. Let¡¯s get you a drink,¡± Stan said as he helped his men carry him to the edge of the ship. The man was screaming in fear. ¡°Please, stop! I was just following orders! Ian told us to do it-¡± ¡°Do it.¡± Isaac naturally knew that Ian was the mastermind, but killing the crew leader would cate himself and Irene. He should have known better than to In addition, it was a demonstration for Ian¡¯s crew- provoking Isaac would only end badly for them, and their boss would not be able to save them! ¡°Please, Ian! Save me!¡± The crew leader started bawling then. Ian certainly wanted to, but he could not¨CIsaac had clearly taken control over his ship, and he was barely safe as it was. How was he supposed to help? Meanwhile, the man was still begging, ¡°Please, sir! I¡¯ve served you well and done so much for you! You can¡¯t just let me die! You told us to do it!¡± Nheless, Stan and his men threw him into the sea, and hended with a loud ssh! It turns out that the man could not swim, and kept struggling to stay afloat. ¡°Help¡± he yelped after gulping a mouthful of seawater. He would sink a foot below the surface whenever he moved, before floating for a moment again and gulping seawater again¨Cthat process repeated endlessly as he kept struggling! Ssh, ssh. Everyone on the boat could only watch¨Cnone of them tried to help. Ian¡¯s crew was especially left cowering at the sight, fearful that they would be next. They were in the midst of deep waters. Even if they could swim, they would eventually get exhausted and drown! The man below was a perfect example. His struggling was bing feeble, and he was hanging on by a thread! Meanwhile, Isaac smiled coolly. ¡°It doesn¡¯t pay to be in your crew, does it?¡± Ian¡¯s face turned ashen¨CIsaac was clearly sowing doubts 2 in the minds of his crew! Suddenly, sirens could be heard ring! The Runaway Groom Chapter 230 The Runaway Groom Chapter 230 Chapter 230 As the sirens approached, the gamblers who had been entranced heard it and ran out of the containers, and swarmed toward Ian when they saw him. ¡°Why are the coast guarding?¡± they demanded. They knew that they were involved in a crime, and they were naturally worried about getting caught. ¡°Just shut up if you don¡¯t want to get caught,¡± Ian growled angrily, and carved a path through the crowd as he made his way to Isaac. ¡°Things won¡¯t end well for you once word of this gets out. Don¡¯t forget¨CI¡¯m your family. Aren¡¯t you afraid of ruining the reputation of the illustrious Jefferson dynasty?¡± Though he owned this illegal casino, everyone knew who he was! If he was indicted and once word got out, Isaac would not fare any better? Isaac remained indifferent, his lips curling up with disdain and callousness. ¡°What does that have to do with me?¡± He might be a Jefferson, but after seeing that Henry hade aboard without lifting a finger to save Irene or his child, he no longer had any qualms! From now on, he would protect his real family¨CIrene and Tommy deserved all his attention. Soon, the cargo ship was surrounded, and the ring sirens left many hearts pounding! Fearing arrest, the crowd was in an uproar as panic and guilt seized them. Stan and his men cleared a path, while Isaac left with Irene and Tommy on another boat. ¡°I¡¯m leaving this to you. Don¡¯t disappoint me,¡± Isaac growled with a solemn look. Stan¡¯s recent performance had been subpar and Isaac had. been meaning to straighten him out. Stan was naturally aware, and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sir.¡± He would do his best this time. Isaac trusted him too, and naturally would not give up on him so quickly¨Ceveryone deserved a second chance. ¡°Leave no stone unturned. I could tell that those men have dirtyundry, and I don¡¯t want them out and about again,¡± Isaac added. ¡°Understand?¡± ¡°Yes¨Canyone whoid a finger on Mrs. Jefferson will be punished.¡± Content held by N?velDrama.Org. Stan was certainly smart. Isaac was being deliberately vague, but he understood anyway. Still, it was to be expected after he served the man so long, and gained an intimate understanding of how he thought. He even knew how to address Irene to suit Isaac¡¯s mood! ¡°Get it done,¡± Isaac said tly, and Stan returned to the cargo ship with his men. Isaac then headed above the deck and told the crew to bring the boat ashore. As the boat sailed steadily over the sea¡¯s surface, Irene¡¯s heart was still strung up, unable to rx. She feared that harm hade to Tommy. On the other hand, Isaac hesitated for a long while, but could not bring himself to ask her to let him hold Tommy. At the moment, it seemed that Irene would not let go of 2 the baby¨Cshe just seemed so anxious, and words of ¡°I won¡¯t let any dangere to you ever again,¡± he said quietly, his eyes fixed on Tommy. The boy looks so much like himself¡­ Irene did not look up, but she replied, ¡°Thank you.¡± Isaac understood how she felt. Once they made port and Irene carried Tommy from the boat, he said, ¡°Can we go to the hospital? I want to get Tommy checked.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll take you there,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Okay,¡± she replied, and got into his car. His phone suddenly started ringing¨Cit was a call from Moneypenny, who told him that Henry wanted to see him. ¡°Got it,¡± he replied, and hung up. He did not head to the Jefferson Manor, however, and instead brought Irene straight to the hospital. ¡°You can leave me if you¡¯re busy. I just need Jimmy with me.¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing urgent,¡± Isaac said. No matter who was asking for him now or what situation needed his attention, nothing was more important than the safety of his child. In fact, Tommy had better be safe, or he would hold everyone responsible¨Ceven Henry! Soon, they arrived at the hospital. Once the car stopped, Isaac alighted first, and opened the door for Irene, walking with her as she carried Tommy out of the car. The examination soon concluded that the boy was fine- Ian did not overdose him. ¡°Wargh- 11 Tommy suddenly started crying from hunger. ¡°What is this?!¡± Isaac, however, quickly became anxious and presumed that the doctor had made some mistake, and caused the baby difort. ring sharply at the doctor, he growled, ¡°What have 2 you done?!¡± Irene promptly tugged at his sleeve¨Cit had nothing to do with the doctor. ¡°Tommy is just hungry.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 231 The Runaway Groom Chapter 231 Chapter 231 The doctor almost jumped in shock from Isaac¡¯s re, and asked gingerly, ¡°There¡¯s form milk avable over at the pediatrics. Why don¡¯t we go there?¡± Irene nodded. However, Tommy refused to drink the form milk from the hospital. He was bawling so hard, he was almost rasping. Realizing that it could be the issue of the form milk, Irene was forced to take him home to the Spencer mansion. ¡°Is he sick?¡® Beside himself with worry, Isaac was absolutely on edge on the journey. He kept urging Jimmy the chauffeur to drive faster. That put Jimmy on edge as well, but he did his best on the congested road, all the while driving as safely as he could. Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. It was after quite a while when they reached the Spencer Mansion. Sheryl was nowhere to be seen, while Ricky was at work. Once inside, Irene handed Tommy to Isaac. ¡°I¡¯m going to heat some milk for Tommy.¡± Tommy must be crying so much because he was hungry, and Irene was too anxious to care if Isaac knew how to hold a baby or not. And Isaac certainly did not¨Cthis was his first time doing so, and he stayed frozen, afraid to move even an inch. Ast he looked at the soft, tiny child in his arms, he felt that his heart could melt at any second. This was his baby! His heart was screaming in his chest, constantly reminding himself of that fact. Irene prepared milk for Tommy and returned to them, only to find Isaac staying motionless. He clearly had no experience in holding a child, but was still exceedingly careful with the baby. It was obvious Isaac cared and loved the child. Suddenly, Irene was suddenly internally at the very least, Isaac acknowledged Tommy and loved him. That was good for both herself and the child. Walking up to them, Irene said quietly, ¡°You can give him to me now. I have to feed him. Isaac did not, however. Instead, he asked, ¡°Can I feed him?¡± Irene passed the bottle to him. ¡°You should sit first.¡± Despite the request, Isaac was clearly nervous¨Cthere was a vein bulging over his temple, and Irene couldn¡¯t bear to look at it. Thus, she took Tommy from Isaac and ended up feeding the baby herself. ¡°You¡¯re not used to it. You¡¯ll be after some practice.¡± ¡°Yeah, okay.¡± Isaac sighed. Tommy finally stopped crying as he finally had his preferred brand of form milk. However, his eyes and cheeks had turned red and puffy from all the crying, and he was still sobbing a little. Having been starved for too long, he wolfed the milk he had desperately craved for and ended up drinking too much. Irene had to give him gentle back rubs as he started spitting milk. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Why is he vomiting?¡± Isaac asked nervously. ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Irene replied. It was normal for babies to do that. Eventually, Tommy appearedfortable, if not a little drowsy. Irene took him to the bathroom. ¡°He needs a bath.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll help,¡± Isaac said without hesitation. Irene stared at Isaac¨Che had always appeared so lofty, as if he was above everything. Yet at this very moment, he looked just like an ordinary father from an ordinary family. She smiled. ¡°Okay. You can help me prepare a bath¡­¡± However, Isaac barely stepped inside when his cell phone started ringing again. Irene frowned immediately. ¡°You should go. I can handle this.¡± Isaac wrinkled his brow, unhappy that he was called repeatedly he had just met his child, and he didn¡¯t want to part so quickly. He wanted to look at Tommy more! ¡°I¡¯ll be right back.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Okay.¡± Once Isaac left the Spencer Mansion, the gentle look on his face was quickly reced by an expression of ice. Getting into his car, he told Jimmy to drive him to Jefferson Manor. Moneypenny was already waiting outside the front door for him. Once he saw Isaac alighting from his car, he walked up and greeted him. ¡°Master Isaac¡­¡± Isaac remained impassive. As he walked, he asked, ¡°Why did he call me here so eagerly?¡® ¡°I¡¯m not sure, sir.¡± Moneypenny smiled, but he wouldn¡¯t have told Isaac even if he knew. As Isaac strode into Henry¡¯s study, he found the old man sitting in front of the chessboard. When Henry saw Isaac, he put down the chess piece he was holding. ¡°I heard the cops were involved with Ian?¡± he asked, but his tone was damning. The Runaway Groom Chapter 232 The Runaway Groom Chapter 232 Chapter 232 Isaac stood, tall and towering. ¡°Yes,¡± he replied, having no intention of apologizing. Henry scowled -being advanced in age, he cared much about kinship. However, he cared about the family¡¯s reputation more. He had given all of the family¡¯s estate to Isaac to appease thetter, but in actual truth, his chief interest was maintaining their reputation. What happens in the family should stay in the family¨Che had been constantly worried that Isaac would expose the family¡¯s dirty deeds to the public¡¯s attention. He rarely tried to throw the weight of his seniority onto Isaac, but now, he asked, ¡°Do you understand what you¡¯ve done?¡± It was a rare instance, but Isaac pursed his lips coldly and growled in dissatisfaction; it came from the bottom of his heart. ¡°Grandfather, you knew Ian took my child and my woman, but you didn¡¯t tell me. I was going to ask you why. Do you agree with his actions, or were you a part of it?¡± Henry was stunned. ¡°H¨CHow did you know?!¡± Henry thought that he had kept things discreet¨Conly Moneypenny knew. As he turned to throw a sharp look at his butler, Moneypenny quickly defended himself, sputtering, ¡°No, sir! I hadn¡¯t breathed a word¡­¡± ¡°How did you think I found the ship, grandfather?¡± Isaac asked, his gaze turning icy. ¡°I saw you returning to Southport with my own eyes, and I simply retraced your footsteps.¡± Isaac took a seat on the chair, leaning back as he folded his legs nonchntly, ¡°So, Grandfather. Tell me, what were you thinking?¡± ¡°I was going to tell you, but you found them-¡± ¡°Really? Can¡¯t even give me a phone call?¡± Clearly, Isaac doubted Henry¡¯s words. If he had any intention to help Irene and Tommy, he would have demanded that Ian release them. Moreover, Henry could have called Isaac about Ian. holding his family hostage. Yet, Henry decided it was more important to rebuke him instead. Naturally, all this wouldn¡¯t make sense unless Henry tolerated the actions of Greg¡¯s family. Now that Isaac¡¯s child and beloved woman were involved, Isaac knew he wouldn¡¯t be a man if he did nothing about it. ¡°Ian should take responsibility for his own actions,¡± Isaac dered resolutely, rising to his feet. ¡°Are you ruining the family¡¯s reputation over a child and a woman?¡± Henry could not ept that attitude. Isaac was allowed to care about his family, but he should not tarnish the Jefferson family¡¯s reputation! Were they going to lose all semnce of dignity now that Henry had grown so old? ¡°Reputation? All of that was gone when my parents were killed,¡± Isaac said, finding it ironic even as he turned to leave. For a long time, he had been repressing his hatred towards Greg¡¯s family and respected Henry as an elder. Henry¡¯s behavior today, however, left him disenchanted. ¡°Are you turning against me?¡± Henry asked in shock. ¡°I¡¯m not, but you¡¯re clearly siding with your son,¡± Isaac replied icily, just like how he found this so¨Ccalled family now. As Henry was left stunned, Isaac strode out of Jefferson Manor. He paused for seconds at the doorway before continuing to his car without looking back. His only attachment to that family was Henry, now, and it had vaporizedpletely. ¡°Where to, sir?¡± Jimmy the chauffeur asked softly. Isaac stared outside the window, his cold expression holding no emotion for a while. Finally, his emotions. resurfaced when he remembered someone else. N?velDrama.Org owns this. ¡°The Spencer Mansion.¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± After they arrived, Isaac alighted from the car and said, ¡± You can go. Just leave the keys here.¡± ¡°Of course, sir.¡± The chauffeur did as he was told, and Isaac headed inside after getting the keys. The living room was quiet, and no one was in sight. Seeing that Irene was not around, Isaac frowned. Did they leave? Still, he thought it unlikely since Irene had just recovered her child. Thus, he looked through every room. Eventually arriving upstairs, he opened a door and found Irene,ying beside Tommy and gently patting his belly to coax him to sleep. Isaac entered quietly, but Irene turned and saw him anyway. Pulling a small nket over Tommy, she sat on the edge of the bed and asked, ¡°Why did Henry call you home?¡± ¡°Nothing much,¡± Isaac replied. The Runaway Groom Chapter 233 The Runaway Groom Chapter 233 Chapter 233 Irene raised a brow, clearly doubting Isaac¡¯s words. Henry wouldn¡¯t call him twice if it was ¡®nothing¡®. Still, she knew shouldn¡¯t ask if he did not want to tell. ¡°Don¡¯t you have work?¡± ¡°No.¡± He walked up to her and wrapped his arms around her, and tightened his embrace when she tried to struggle. ¡°Don¡¯t. Let me hold you for a moment¨Cthat¡¯s all I ask.¡± Irene stopped struggling, her heart skipping a beat. She was still sitting on the bed even as he held her, and her face was against his waist. She could sense that he was dispirited for some reason, and couldn¡¯t help wrapping her arms around his waist. Concerned, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Isaac said nothing, but he was brushing his fingers over her hair. There was only warmth in his heart when he held her, and he felt like he was actually standing on solid ground. ¡°I¡¯m so thankful you were the one that night,¡± he suddenly said softly. Irene, however, stiffened. This was the first time they spoke about it after that revtion. She actually felt awkward and embarrassed. ¡°Hey¡­¡± ¡°Weren¡¯t you afraid?¡± he asked. Irene lowered her gaze¨Cthere was no way she wasn¡¯t afraid at the time. However, she could tell that Isaac was no viin from the fact that he held a de, but did not harm her. Therefore, she decided to help him. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you push me away?¡± he asked again. Knowing that he was referring to their intimacy, the most indulgent moment in her life, Irene actually found no regret at all. In fact, she actually felt regret when she realized she had fallen for him. She just didn¡¯t know that he was the man she had been Chapter 233 3/4 with. Somehow, what she once thought was a mistake turned out not to be one at all. It was clearly a rebellious act¨Ca gesture of dissatisfaction she made against Lionel¡¯s threat. However, she didn¡¯t tell Isaac that. Instead, she smiled at him. ¡°Because I get to make you a cuck.¡± Isaac grinned in return. ¡°Do you really hate me that much?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± She nodded as hard as she could. Isaac lifted her chin, and as she was forced to look up. Their eyes met mid¨Cair. He somehow felt like he knew her crystalline, watery gaze -as if he had met her before. Yet, he was unable to remember. ¡°What¡¯s in your mind?¡± Irene asked. Isaac came to his senses, but said nothing. His fingers brushed against her cheeks, and then her ear, which left her blushing and heating up a little. C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org As he slowly leaned downwards, Irene seemed to sense a tenderness she didn¡¯t usually see against the warm glow overhead. His eyes sparkling like the stars in the night, Isaac said, ¡± I want to kiss you.¡± His searing lips met hers as he spoke. Irene did not dodge him. She answered him, epting him. As she raised her hand, she inadvertently knocked on the photo frame on the bedside drawer. Itnded with a loud tter, interrupting them. Isaac looked at it and asked, ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± ¡°A photo of me as a child,¡± Irene replied. Isaac¡¯s interest was piqued. ¡°May I have a look?¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Irene picked it up and passed it to him. When Isaac took it and saw the person on it, his brow visibly creased. The Runaway Groom Chapter 234 The Runaway Groom Chapter 234 Chapter 234 Isaac asked, ¡°Is this a photo of you?¡± Irene nodded firmly. ¡°Yeah¡­ When I was around seven, if I remember correctly.¡± Isaac couldn¡¯t helpughing at that. Irene scowled, feeling like she was being mocked. ¡± What¡¯s so funny?¡± Isaac passed her the photo. ¡°Are you sure this is you?¡± Irene was left speechless the instant she saw it. Tommy was in the photo, not her. ¡°My mom must¡¯ve changed it,¡± she exined. It had to be Sheryl. No one else would do it! Isaac¡¯s gaze followed the photo as Irene put it on the drawer again. ¡°Come back to the mansion with me, Irene. ¡°Okay,¡± she replied after a brief hesitation. Footsteps could soon be heard, and they could hear Sheryl calling out, ¡°Irene? Are you home?¡± Irene promptly got to her feet¨Cshe felt a little guilty, perhaps because Isaac was in the room with her. Even though there was no reason to feel guilty¡­ ¡°Mom,¡± Irene called out. Hearing her voice, Sheryl arrived at the door, asking, Have you found Tommy?¡± Sheryl was surprised to see Isaac there. Immediately, a scowl crossed her face. ¡°Why are you here?¡± From her perspective, Isaac was as irresponsible as he was cold. How much trouble had Irene gone through to give her a son? And yet, what did he do in return? ¡°Waaaah¡­¡± Suddenly, Tommy burst into tears. ¡°Oh! Tommy¡¯s back?¡± Sheryl nced at the bed when she heard his cry, and ran up to him without a care in the world. She was naturally sentimental about the baby, since she had been caring for him ever since she was born. When he was abducted, she lost a lot of weight as she could neither sleep nor eat well. Scooping up Tommy in her arms, she breathed, ¡°Oh, sweet boy¡­¡± One moment, she was looking joyfully at the infant, poking his cheek. However, her expression suddenly cooled and she snarled through her teeth, ¡°He lost weight ¡­ Harvey Gooding, that animal!¡± ¡°Mom.¡± Irene prodded Sheryl¨Cthere was someone else with them. Sheryl, however, did not care. Let Isaac watch as much as he wanted! Impression didn¡¯t matter when she was so worried that her grandchild might die! For his part, Isaac felt that Sheryl was against him. He wanted to defend himself, but was unsure of what to say¨Che was not used to exnations, because he never had to. However, he felt like he had to exin himself to Sheryl, since she had been taking care of Tommy all this while. Sheryl was also Irene¡¯s mother. He must respect her and be mindful of what she thought of him. Irene could tell what he was thinking, and so said, ¡°Let¡¯s head downstairs. You still have things to do, right?¡± Then, she moved to link arms with him; a sign to Sheryl that they had made up. N?velDrama.Org owns this. Though Isaac still appeared hesitant, Irene said, ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Momter.¡± Isaac finally conceded and followed her downstairs. As he walked with her to the door, Irene said, ¡°My mom¡¯s going to need time to ept you. I mean, she knows we didn¡¯t marry for love, and there was so much that happened. She must be upset with you, since I had to deliver Tommy in secret.¡± As Isaac stayed silent, she continued, ¡°She has no idea about us, since we don¡¯t know each other. I had no idea Tommy was yours, so I went into hiding to give birth. She still thought that you were cruel to me. Could you not hold it against her if she¡¯s a little¡­prejudiced?¡± Isaac certainly would not¨Che actually felt gratitude towards Sheryl for caring for his child. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you saying anything?¡± Irene thought that Isaac couldn¡¯t ept that, and promptly pulled away from him. She snapped, ¡°My mom didn¡¯t know! Why are you getting so petty? I exined everything!¡± Isaac smiled, amused at the sight of Irene¡¯s pouting, indignant expression. ¡°Are you angry?¡± ¡®What do you think?!¡® Irene wanted to bellow at him, but instead turned to leave. Isaac caught her by her wrist and said, ¡°I¡¯m not angry. I¡¯m grateful for everything you and your mother have done.¡± As Irene turned towards him, Isaac tugged at her and said, ¡°Come to my office. Stan might be done by now.¡± Irene was certainly reluctant¨Cshe hadn¡¯t spent much time with Tommy ever since she brought him to this world, and she wanted to do just that since she had nothing else to do now. ¡°No.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll have Jimmy drive you home soon,¡± Isaac said, ignoring her. He dragged her to his car and stuffed her inside, leaving Irene speechless. The Runaway Groom Chapter 235 The Runaway Groom Chapter 235 Chapter 235 Irene was at a loss for words¨Cwhy did she have to go to Isaac¡¯s office with him? ¡°How could you be so childish?¡± She was at once tired and amused. Somehow, a man as indomitable as him could be adorable Although the journey was quiet as they headed to Sky Group¡¯s headquarters, the mood between them was rxed, even a little sweet¨Cas if they were dating. Arriving downstairs, Isaac parked the car and said, ¡°Come on. Let¡¯s get you a drink since you¡¯re here anyway. Irene was speechless. She could tell what he was going to sayter: you already had a drink, so just stay and we could leave work together He couldn¡¯t get more childish than that, but Irene felt a little happy inside at the thought of how clingy he was being. Taking the elevator straight to his office on the top floor, Isaac told Debbie the secretary as they walked past her desk, ¡°Two coffees, please.¡± ¡°I can get them.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°How do you take yours?¡± Debbie butted in, saying, ¡°Dark.¡± Isaac gave Debbie a cool look, and she promptly lowered her gaze. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that before,¡± Irene said, as if jealous. Isaac¡¯s lips quickly curled up in a smile¨Che liked it when she cared. Irene¡¯s eyes met his, and she quickly turned away. ¡°I¡¯ll make our coffee.¡± Debbie had shown Irene around the floor, so she knew where the lounge was. After Irene brewed their coffee, however, she saw Kathy at the doorway. Stan had demoted Kathy to a low¨Clevel administration personnel at one of the branchpanies, and employees of her rank weren¡¯t supposed to enter the offices of executive personnel. However, Kathy was here. again because of Isaac. It was only natural since she did everything she could just to stay in Sky Group¨Cas long as she was still around, she had a chance. In order to make him fall for her, she even brought the silver crucifix. It was the reason Isaac allowed her to stay in hispany before. She was nning to make Isaac allow her to transfer back to headquarters, so that she could see him more. Be that as it may, she immediately became wary when she saw Irene, and promptly hid the silver crucifix underneath her blouse. ¡°Why are you here?¡± Irene reared her chin at Kathy. ¡°Why can¡¯t I be here?¡± ¡°What¡­?¡± Kathy¡¯s face dropped. ¡°Get out of here!¡± Irene wouldn¡¯t have bothered with her before, but things were different now¨Cshe wanted a family for Tommy and wanted to seize her beloved Isaac. Therefore, there was no way she could abide with another woman who wanted Isaac as well. ¡°Sorry, but my husband told me toe. Now, if you¡¯d excuse me¡­¡± Calling ¡®husband¡® was naturally a provocation to Kathy- unsurprisingly, she was infuriated and promptly raised a hand against Irene. ¡°You stinking bitch! He already divorce you know your ce!¡± Kathy¡¯s reaction was exactly what Irene wanted. Just as Kathy was about to reach Irene, Irene suddenly turned away and dropped to the floor, sshing her coffee on herself. Kathy was dumbfounded ¡ªhow did Irene fall before she reached Irene? For Irene¡¯s part, she made sure that the coffee wasn¡¯t hot before falling¨Cthough her skin was reddened and she felt slightly burned. At the same time, the loud shattering of the coffee mugs alerted Isaac from his office. When he stepped out, he found Irene sitting on the ground drenched miserably in coffee, frowning at the stains on the face and her blouse, which was sticking to her lingerie due to the wetness. ¡°What happened here?¡± he asked as he held out a hand to Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. her. Irene beat Kathy to it. ¡°I sprained my foot. It has nothing to do with Miss York.¡± There was an edge to her words¨Cdespite sounding like she was defending Kathy, she virtually stopped short of saying that Kathy did it. As she looked up at Isaac¡¯s palm, she gently put hers on his. He held it, pulling her up to his arms. Kathy was livid, but tried to exin, ¡°I didn¡¯t touch her.¡± Irene knew she shouldn¡¯t say a word, and simply pressed herself against Isaac¡¯s chest. She asked gingerly, ¡°Should I go?¡± Isaac turned to re at Kathy and snapped angrily, ¡°Who let you in here?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 236 The Runaway Groom Chapter 236 Chapter 236 Kathy was stunned. While she dide here on her own volition, she never expected to run into Irene here. Even so, she did noty a finger on Irene! ¡°I-¡± Isaac didn¡¯t bother to listen to Kathy. ¡°Debbie, see her out.¡± ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± Debbie the secretary stepped in front of Kathy right then and gestured, ¡°Please.¡± This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. Kathy tried to exin. ¡°I didn¡¯t touch her!¡± Isaac simply ignored Kathy and turned away with Irene. still in his arms, though he soon paused. ¡°If this happens. again, you won¡¯t be working for thispany anymore.¡± Kathy felt a chill running down her spine. She had done so much, yet Isaac still had no interest in her. Plus, Irene¡¯s provocation actually worked? Isaac himself had chased Irene away from his mansion! How did that woman return and seduce him? What tricks did Irene use to make him favor her so much? Kathy was absolutely livid! As Isaac returned inside his office with Irene, he picked up some tissues and helped her wipe the coffee stains on her. ¡°You could tell me if you don¡¯t like her, and I¡¯ll chase her out. What if you burned yourself?¡± Irene looked up then, her pupils dting in disbelief.¡± What are you talking about?¡± ¡°There are cameras everywhere in this building,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°I checked out the footage once I heard themotion.¡± He had seen that Kathy didn¡¯ty a finger on Irene, while Irene was doing everything she could to provoke her- Kathy was just stupid enough to fall for it. ¡°Also¡­¡± His lips curled up with indescribable delight. ¡°I liked it when you called me husband.¡± Irene was speechless with embarrassment. ¡°Actually, I¡­¡± She tried to exin, but Isaac put a finger on her lips. Shush. I like it when you do that.¡± She was being mean to another woman for him, and it pleased him to see that. Irene looked at him. ¡°I want a family for Tommy.¡± Isaac¡¯s smile stiffened and slowly faded¨Cshe did that for their son? Not because she loved him? ¡°Irene,¡± he said quietly¨Chad he not been clear about his own feelings? Or maybe she had a heart of stone? Noticing that he was upset, Irene asked tentatively, What¡¯s wrong? Are you upset?¡± Isaac didn¡¯t answer, and instead pulled her to himself so that she was leaningpletely against him! With just the fabric of their clothing between them, Irene actually felt his scalding warmth. Suddenly feeling a dryness in her throat, she couldn¡¯t help gulping as her heart pounded. Putting both hands against his chest, she whispered, ¡± You¡¯re holding me too tight. I can¡¯t breathe¡­¡± Isaac didn¡¯t stop despite her words, and instead tightened his hold¨CIrene had to stand on her toes to be able to breathe. Their dank, warm breaths were tangled, swirling around each other. ¡°Can¡¯t you fall for me?¡± Isaac asked quietly. ¡°I can,¡± Irene answered quickly, inadvertently telling him her truest thoughts. Pursing her lips, she said, ¡°I¡­ No, I mean, I want to stay with you, not just because you¡¯re Tommy¡¯s father, but¡­ because I have feelings for you too.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Her answer left him overjoyed. She had feelings for him¡­ Did that mean she loved him? The Runaway Groom Chapter 237 The Runaway Groom Chapter 237 Chapter 237 At once, Irene was hit with a wave of awkwardness and embarrassment. ¡°Yes, I love you,¡± she admitted grumpily as she struggled against his hold. ¡°Can you let go of me now?¡± Isaac chuckled. ¡°Nope.¡± ¡°You¡¯re going to smother me if you keep holding me like this,¡± sheined. ¡°I would never,¡± he said quietly, and kissed her on her forehead. His kiss was as gentle as a summer breeze, tugging at one¡¯s heartstrings. Irene felt her heart skip a beat, and leaned against his chest. He was the first man whom she fell for¨Cthey were two individuals who would never have crossed paths, yet events brought them together almost by force. Perhaps this was their destiny¡­ Bzzt- Isaac¡¯s cell phone on his desk began to ring, and Irene pulled away from his arms, saying, ¡°Your phone is ringing.¡± Isaac heard it but did not take it, so she picked it up instead. Seeing that Stan was calling, she said, ¡°It¡¯s Stan. Something must be up. Isaac finally answered, and Stan quickly told him, ¡°Take a look at the news, sir.¡± Isaac turned on the big screen on the wall he used for video conferences. It turns out that the media was now aware of Ian¡¯s casino ship, and every channel was reporting about it¨Cthey were all now setting their crosshairs on the Jeffersons due to Ian¡¯s involvement. They were certainly saying anything they wanted, but most of it was harsh criticism¨Cthat the Jeffersons had plenty of money, yet would still take up such illegal activities that harms families and societies, and would suffer retribution for it. Isaac raised a brow. ¡°What happened?¡± He only called the cops, not the media¨Chow did the media find out? ¡°Someone talked. Everyone knows about the casino ship, ¡± Stan replied. ¡°Someone talked?¡± Isaac became pensive. Ian would never dig a hole for himself by revealing his own crimes, so who could it be? Harvey Gooding, perhaps? ¡°Check if Harvey¡¯s on the move recently,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Alright, but this is huge. I think your grandfather would be upset if he finds out,¡± Stan pointed out, aware how much Henry cared about reputation. The casino ship would disgrace the Jeffersons and turn them into public enemies. Henry would be throwing a fit N?velDrama.Org owns this. once he found out! Isaac, however, did not care what Henry thought¡ªthat old man hadn¡¯t deserved his respect for a long time! All Henry cared about was to keep up appearances without regard for his own family. He was no human, but a cold¨Cblooded reptile! ¡°Don¡¯t bother,¡± Isaac said, disenchanted with the old. man. ¡°Alright, sir. I¡¯ll be right back once I¡¯m done here,¡± Stan said. Isaac had just hung up when there was a knock on the door. It opened before he could say ¡°Come in.¡± Henry was standing menacingly at the doorway, with Debbie the secretary hanging her head behind him, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir¨CI couldn¡¯t stop him.¡± Isaac simply waved, dismissing her. While Debbie left, Henry nced at Irene before sitting on the couch. ¡°Good, you¡¯re here too,¡± he said, waving at Moneypenny to put her divorce papers on the desk, ¡°I was the one who registered your marriage, so I¡¯ll help you with your divorce too. Come.¡± Irene was just about to walk to Henry, but Isaac caught her wrist. ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Releasing her right after, he walked up to the desk and picked up the divorce papers. After scanning through it, he tore them apart with a deafening rip. ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?!¡± Henry snapped. The Runaway Groom Chapter 238 The Runaway Groom Chapter 238 Chapter 238 Isaac acted as if he did not see Henry¡¯s indignation, and threw the scraps of the torn papers nonchntly into the trash can. ¡°If I want a divorce, we can handle it ourselves. You don¡¯t have to worry, Grandfather.¡± With that, he sat opposite the old man, folding his legs casually. ¡°Did youe to show me this? If that¡¯s so, I¡¯ve seen it and showed you what I think.¡± Henry¡¯s face was ashen. ¡°Do you know who you¡¯re talking to?!¡± Before Isaac could respond, he continued, ¡°You¡¯ve seen the news, haven¡¯t you? Do you see what you¡¯ve done? What good came of it?¡± ¡°You mean I should let Tan keep my wife and child, and let that be?¡± Isaac asked sharply in return. Henry was left speechless right then¨Chis one mistake lost Isaac¡¯s patience and respect. It wasn¡¯t as if Isaac never distrusted Henry. They both know how Isaac¡¯s parents died, but Henry persistently defended Greg. Even so, Isaac never turned against Henry¨CIsaac still regarded Henry as his grandfather despite his parents¡® murders, but what did Henry do? He knew Ian had Irene and Tommy hostage, but did nothing. That was what Isaac cannot abide with. Isaac had already lost his parents, and he wasn¡¯t about to let the same tragedy happen to his new family. ¡°Sir, our stocks-¡± Stan rushed into Isaac¡¯s office the instant he returned, but mmed shut when he saw Henry. He then walked to stand beside Irene. Henry was basically huffing. He couldn¡¯t do anything to Isaac, but being the previous CEO, he still had some tricks. up his sleeve and held stature as previous head of the ¡°Moneypenny, go find out¨Cwhat happened to our stocks. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Moneypenny replied, and left the room for just five minutes before returning. His expression was somber. ¡°It seems Sky Group stocks plummeted because of the news¡­¡± Henry, however, knew that beforehand -it was leverage he can use. ¡°Isaac, I trust you. That is why I left thepany in your hands. However, you¡¯ve made a mess of things because you made it personal, so don¡¯t me me when I take back management,¡± he said as he rose to his feet. ¡°You have three days to sort this out.¡± N?velDrama.Org owns this. With that, he strutted out of the office on his crutch, with Moneypenny helping him. When they got in the elevator, Moneypenny finally asked, ¡°What are you doing, sir?¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you see his attitude¨Chow he spoke to me?¡± Henry snorted, clearly disgruntled with Isaac but not at all aware of his mistakes. It was understandable if he wanted someonepetent helming Sky Group and wanted to give Ian a chance since Isan was his grandson, but he shouldn¡¯t have abandoned Isaac¡¯s child. Moneypenny asked, ¡°Are you siding with Master Greg?¡± Henry stayed silent, but that was clearly his intent. Coming to Isaac¡¯s office and throwing the divorce papers. made it obvious that he had changed his mind¨Che wanted Irene to marry Isaac because he believed she could help Isaac give up on his grudge, but now, she was the reason Isaac turned against him. It was no different from shooting himself in the foot! ¡°I wish he¡¯d give up on his hate for Irene¡¯s sake, but Ian took his son,¡± Henry sighed. ¡°He must hate Greg¡¯s family to the bone now, and he¡¯ll definitely make a move¡­ All that appeasement! Wasted!¡°. Moneypenny reasoned, ¡°I¡¯m sure you can still turn things around.¡± ¡°How?¡± Henry shot back. ¡°I believe Master Isaac still holds on to old sentiment ¡­¡± ¡°Even if I keep appeasing him, what will happen after I die?¡± Henry asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 239 The Runaway Groom Chapter 239 Chapter 239 Moneypenny clearly wanted to speak, but refrained from doing so. As he lowered his gaze, Henry snorted coldly, narrowing his turbid eyes. ¡°You know very well that Isaac will definitely destroy Greg¡¯s family the moment I die. I need to take away all his power while he still can.¡± As long as Isaac didn¡¯t have that much power, it wouldn¡¯t be easy for him to ruin Greg¡¯s family. Moneypenny, however, believed Henry shouldn¡¯t give up on Isaac so soon, rather than be harsh on Isaac. ¡°Master Isaac had been helming thepany over the years, and you were hardly present although you are board chairman. There¡¯s not much you can do, is there?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve only given him leadership of thepany, not the shares,¡± Henry growled. He naturally had backup measures in ce, because he could never get a read on Isaac¨Ceven if Isaac never sought revenge on Greg Jeffersons and his family. Moneypenny, however, believed that Henry was being paranoid, even misunderstanding Isaac. After Isaac¡¯s parents died so early in his life, Isaac was denied warmth and a sense of security¨Chad Henry treated Isaac with genuine kindness, there was no question that Isaac would be swayed. Now, however, Henry had allowed Ian to kidnap Isaac¡¯s son, for Ian was bent on using the boy as leverage against Isaac. It would be bizarre if Isaac wasn¡¯t seething! ¡°What?! Do you think I¡¯m wrong?¡± Henry demanded. Moneypenny quickly shook his head. ¡°Of course not.¡± In the end, there was no way he would go against his own N?velDrama.Org owns this. master. Back in Isaac¡¯s office, Stan walked up to him and said, He¡¯s really upset this time, isn¡¯t he?¡± Isaac was scowling¨Cmostly out of disappointment towards his grandfather. ¡°Sir, we have toe up with something right now¨Cwe have to stop the stocks from dropping,¡± Stan appeared anxious, but Isaac seemed to think nothing of it. Rising to his feet and taking Irene by the hand, he started to head outside as he said tly, ¡°Leave it to PR.¡± Stan was speechless. Leaving such a momentous task to PR? Is Isaac really not going to care? ¡°Oh, wait!¡± Stan eximed just then, almost forgetting something else. ¡°I¡¯ve looked into the matter, but it wasn¡¯t Harvey who leaked the news. He¡¯s been busy at his office and he¡¯s been staying in Sunny City, so he won¡¯t have time to mess with us.¡± Isaac stopped right then, instantly smelling something fishy. ¡°Get to the bottom of this.¡± ¡°Yes, sir. Also, the man we threw overboard is dead. Still, he deserved it since his criminal record is as long as my arm: robbery, rape assault and battery¨Che¡¯s done it all. He just recently got out of prison and immediately worked for Ian, resuming his life as a career criminal.¡± ¡°I see,¡± Isaac replied. Stan grew a little worried. ¡°But I don¡¯t think your grandfather is happy with this. Is he going to side with Ian?¡± He was certainly surprised by Henry¡¯s reaction¨Che expected rage, but not that much. On the other hand, Isaac seemed to expect that, and thought nothing of it. ¡°His warning just now, and if our stocks really do keep dropping, I¡¯m afraid¡ª¡± ¡°Stan,¡± Isaac growled, cutting him short. ¡°Do you remember why we set up a branch in Franconia?¡± Stan shook his head. ¡°You¡¯ve never told me, and I still have no idea¡­¡± Hold on! Just then, something clicked in Stan¡¯s mind. The Runaway Groom Chapter 240 The Runaway Groom Chapter 240 Chapter 240 As the realization dawned upon him, Stan eximed, You were prepared for this? So long ago?¡± Naturally, the thought gave Stan confidence. It meant that they did not have to worry about Henry impeding them in any way. At this, even his tone lightened up considerably. ¡°I didn¡¯t think he could be that heartless¡­¡± Henry would actually take back management of Sky Group! Isaac, however, remained impassive. It wasn¡¯t as if he was pleased that the insurance he had prepared kept him safe¨Cin truth, he was sorely disappointed. Irene could sense that Isaac wasn¡¯t in a good mood, and had a rough idea why. Taking his hand, she said quietly, ¡°I won¡¯t ever leave you. 11 Even if those around him betrayed or deserted him, she would always stay by his side! Isaac looked into her eyes and gathered her into his arms, while Irene wrapped her arms around his slender waist. Self¨Caware as ever, Stan promptly stepped out of the office with his eyes averted, even closing the door behind him and telling Debbie the secretary, ¡°Don¡¯t let anyone. disturb them.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Debbie replied, though she hesitated for a moment before stopping Stan. ¡°Do you think this will hurt Mr. Jefferson?¡± Stan pped an assuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°It¡¯ll be fine. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Debbie still appeared worried. ¡°I could tell that Henry Jefferson looked upset. I¡¯m afraid-¡± ¡°We just have to do what we¡¯re supposed to do, and leave the rest to Mr. Jefferson¨Cthink no evil and talk no evil, or everyone else in the office will start panicking too,¡± Stan advised her. Debbie quickly understood. ¡°I guess I was paranoid.¡± Stan nodded in satisfaction and started to leave. ¡°Good. business I should do the same too.¡® Now go about your ¡°Stan¡­¡± ¡°What?¡± Stan turned around. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ll get back to work.¡± Debbie smiled. Stan and her had been working together for years and were basically Isaac¡¯s limbs, their loyalty beyond question. Still, Stan did not dwell on her hesitation and left. In Isaac¡¯s office, Irene was looking up to Isaac¡¯s eyes as she said, ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡± Isaac nodded. Tommy was awake when they returned to Spencer Mansion, and Sherly was carrying him around the living room, amusing him with a toy. ¡°Mom.¡± Sheryl had been too preupied with Irene to notice theming. Her smile stiffened when she saw Isaac after Irene called out to her. Irene whispered to Isaac, ¡°I¡¯ll talk to her. Just stay in the living room¨CTommy¡¯s up, so you can get to know him.¡± ¡°Yeah, okay,¡± Isaac murmured. ¡°Mom.¡± Irene then walked up to Sheryl, taking her by her hand. ¡°Come with me for a while. We should talk.¡± Sheryl, however, already understood¨Cshe had seen how the two were behaving in the morning. Now, they had returned home together. Rolling her eyes at Irene, she said, ¡°No, we just have to talk here.¡± Irene felt uneasy. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. Sheryl seemed to be unhappy with Isaac¡­ She wouldn¡¯t say something out of line, would she? ¡°Tommy¡¯s a baby, and he needs a family and parental love. He was born unlucky and went through a lot, and I¡¯m naturally happy for you two since you¡¯re together now. You have a child together. Even if I¡¯m unhappy about it before, I¡¯ll let it go for Tommy¡¯s sake. Also, now that you two have decided to be together, make sure you can make this work¨Cthe most important part about living together is trust, and I hope you both have that. Alright, it¡¯ste now and I have to cook. Just stay here and take care of Tommy.¡± With that, Sheryl headed to the kitchen. The Runaway Groom Chapter 241 The Runaway Groom Chapter 241 Chapter 241 Irene didn¡¯t expect that from Sheryl, and walked up to give her mother a hug from the back. ¡°Thanks, Mom.¡± Sheryl smiled and patted Irene¡¯s hand. ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me, silly¨CI¡¯m your mother. Of course I¡¯ll wish the best for you,¡± she said. She leaned in to whisper into Irene¡¯s ear, saying, ¡°I¡¯m not blind, you know. I saw you two-¡± ¡°Mom!¡± Irene pouted in embarrassment. ¡°Alright, alright, I won¡¯t say it,¡± Sheryl said, before adding solemnly. ¡°Just be happy.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom.¡± Irene assured her. Sherlyughed. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll go cook now.¡± Irene let go of Sheryl, and returned to the couch. Isaac did not pick up Tommy¨Che was sitting beside Tommy and staring at the baby, who was blinking hisrge, round eyes at Isaac. Tommy appeared curious and wasn¡¯t throwing a fit, lying there unmoving as Isaac watched him. Irene poured Isaac a ss of water. ¡°Why are you staring at him like that?¡± Isaac did not look up, and instead asked, ¡°Do you want to keep being a doctor, or learn business?¡± Irene sat beside him, watching Tommy.N?velDrama.Org owns this. She had always dreamt of bing a doctor, but she couldn¡¯t hand Spencer Holdingspletely to Ricky Spencer yet. While the boy could manage things and was smart, he wasn¡¯t fully capable of going independent yet. Isaac could tell what she was thinking. ¡°I can help.¡± Irene showed him a book she left on the table. ¡°I¡¯m studying. Still, if a sess story like yourself is willing to share your experience, I will be willing to listen. Isaac smiled and pinched her cheek. ¡°Cheeky.¡± Irene pushed him away. ¡°That hurts.¡± As they chatted and joked around, Isaac¡¯s mood improved considerably¨Che didn¡¯t remember when he last enjoyed himself and was this rxed. He loved this homely feeling. Holding Irene¡¯s hand, he said, ¡°Let¡¯s register our marriage.¡± Henry pulled strings to get both their marriage and divorce done, and Isaac found that pointless¨Cit only appeared serious and valid if they went together. ¡°Okay.¡± Irene quickly agreed to it. ¡°But it¡¯ste now- let¡¯s go tomorrow.¡± Isaac nodded. At the same time, Sheryl had made dinner and put everything on the dining table before calling them to eat. Irene called Ricky to see if he wasing home to eat, but the boy appeared frantic. ¡°O¨COh, I don¡¯t think I¡¯m going back¡­ I¡¯m very busy.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied with a slight frown. She found his reply suspicious, but did not ask. Was Ricky hiding something from her? Why else would he seem so frantic? ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Isaac appeared behind Irene without her sensing it. Turning to look at Isaac, she exined, ¡°I think something¡¯s wrong with Ricky.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll get Stan to look into him.¡± Having said that, Isaac whipped out his phone and called his assistant. Irene felt a little embarrassed. ¡°Thank you.¡± Isaac tapped the tip of her nose with a finger. ¡°What¡¯s mine is yours.¡± Irene smiled. Still, she didn¡¯t forget that Sheryl was around, and so wrapped her arms around his waist, pouting yfully as she joked, ¡°Does that mean your money¡¯s mine too?¡± At once, Isaac felt amused and helpless. ¡°Of course.¡± Irene blinked. ¡°Doesn¡¯t that mean I¡¯m very rich?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 242 The Runaway Groom Chapter 242 Chapter 242 Isaac smiled. ¡°You¡¯re very rich.¡± Sheryl Harris was sitting at the dining table, smiling as she watched the two¨Cshe was pleased that her daughter found her happiness, and that Tommy now has a family. ¡°Come sit already,¡± she urged¨Cit wouldn¡¯t do if the food got cold. Meanwhile, Isaac told Stan across the phone, ¡°Contact me right away if you find anything unusual about Ricky.¡± He hung up once Stan confirmed his orders, and headed to the dining table with Irene. Tommy was asleep, so they didn¡¯t have to mind him. Sheryl was eagerly pushing food and soup to Isaac¨Cshe appeared happier with him the more they interacted. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what you like, so I cooked a little something. Don¡¯t hold back.¡± 1 Isaac wasn¡¯t uneasy¨Cthe mood around the dining table actually suited him. It had been a long while since he felt at home. J ¡°Once Irene and I registered our marriage, please pick a date for us. I wish to give her a wedding,¡± he said, offering Sheryl assurance while acknowledging and confirming his rtionship with Irene. Sheryl didn¡¯t expect him to mention that. Both of them were reluctant to get married before. Now that they were together, they should tie the knot. Smiling and nodding, Sheryl said, ¡°Of course. I will definitely pick a fine date for you.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Isaac said. ¡°We¡¯re family now¨Cthere¡¯s no need to be so polite.¡± Sheryl was certainly happy Isaac was being so thoughtful. It was obvious that he cared about Irene. Even if things did not start ideally for them, the oue was perfect: a child, a family of three. Sheryl found herself smiling blissfully. After dinner, Isaac asked, ¡°Can I stay?¡± Irene beat Sheryl to it. ¡°No¨Cwe¡¯re getting registered and we¡¯ll have a proper wedding. I¡¯ll take Tommy back to your mansion once all that¡¯s done.¡± In truth, her quick refusal was actually out of embarrassment¨Cletting Isaac stay while her mother was here? Sheryl rose to her feet and picked up the dishes before heading to the kitchen. ¡°It¡¯s your business, so decide on your own. I won¡¯t meddle.¡± Irene pulled Isaac along, saying, ¡°Come. I¡¯ll walk you out. || Isaac frowned. ¡°You¡¯re afraid that I¡¯d stay?¡± Irene averted his eyes. ¡°Your grandfather filled out our divorce papers. We aren¡¯t actually married right now.¡± ¡°Excuses.¡± Isaac gathered her in his arms. He knew that she was feeling shy, but refrained from exposing her. ¡± Let¡¯s have a stroll together, shall we?¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Irene nodded. There weren¡¯t many scenic spots nearby, so they drove to a nearbyke. As they alighted from the car, Irene linked arms with Isaac and they walked over the cobblestone path near theke. The vegetation there was lush, and there was a cool + breeze blowing at them from time to time despite the scorching climate. Irene leaned her face against his arm. ¡°I love this feeling.¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. To stroll along a small, quiet path with the man she loved. Isaac grinned, and patted her on the head. As they strolled along, Irene saw a familiar figure looking left and right, as if worried someone would catch him. Why was he here? By the time Ireen let go of Isaac and walked towards the person, he had already got in a car. ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Isaac asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 243 The Runaway Groom Chapter 243 Chapter 243 Irene frowned worriedly. ¡°I think I saw Ricky.¡± Isaac turned towards where she was looking, but saw nothing. ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re not mistaken?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± She couldn¡¯t have been¨Cit was obviously Ricky. He sounded frantic when she called him today, and he was acting all shady just now¨Csomething was clearly wrong with Ricky! Nheless, Isaac put an arm around Irene¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°I¡¯ve told Stan to look into him. He¡¯d have something soon if Ricky really was messing around at Spencer Holdings. Come on, let¡¯s go.¡± Irene nodded, feeling gradually uneasy. Her foreboding feeling soon came true! Stan discovered that Ricky was the one who leaked news about the casino ship. ¡°How could it be him?¡± Irene asked in disbelief. ¡°He should have no reason to do it¡­¡± However, Ricky¡¯s unusual behavior meant otherwise. ¡°Did you find anything else? Has he been up to anything recently?¡± Irene kept on asking Stan. ¡°I did, but there¡¯s nothing unusual there,¡± Stan replied.This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. Irene frowned. ¡°That¡¯s weird¡­¡± Bzzt- Just then, Irene¡¯s phone started to ring. It had been taken from her when she boarded Ian¡¯s casino ship, and she forgot to take it when she left since she was anxious to rush Tommy to the hospital. Stan had recovered it for her. The call turned out to be from Sheryl, and she sounded worried, ¡°Irene, you have toe back. I think something¡¯s wrong with Tommy!¡± ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but he¡¯s convulsing a lot. I¡¯ve called an ambnce, but you really shoulde take a look. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Did something happen?¡± Isaac asked. Irene had no idea what was happening yet, and since Isaac was busy with his family business, she didn¡¯t tell him about Tommy. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. My mom just asked if I was going home soon¡­ I thought I should since I¡¯m not doing anything anyway.¡± Smiling at Isaac, she said, ¡°Okay, I¡¯m going now. You should go about your business.¡± ¡°Should I still keep an eye on Ricky?¡± Stan asked. Irene thought briefly about it. ¡°No.¡± If Stan couldn¡¯t find anything, Ricky was either being wary¨Cor it could have been nothing at all. She certainly hoped for thetter to be the case. If Ricky was wary, they would find nothing anyway. Perhaps she was being paranoid, too. Ricky had never been out of line. In fact, the boy had been doing well, and Sheryl told Irene that he was as frantic as she was when Irene was abducted; he even went as far as to go with Sheryl to demand Irene back from Harvey. Samantha White was already jailed, and Irene wasn¡¯t about to get into an argument with Ricky just because of her meager suspicions. ¡± ¡°I¡¯ll ask Jimmy to give you a ride,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. Once Irene reached the Spencer Mansion, the ambnce had long since arrived and had taken both Sheryl and Tommy to the hospital. As such, Irene had to head to the hospital. ¡°You should go back to the mansion,¡± she told Jimmy the chauffeur, and ran inside. She headed straight to pediatrics, but did not see Sheryl or Tommy. Eventually, Irene found her mother at the clinicalboratory. Rushing to her side, she called out, ¡°Mom¡­!¡± Sheryl seemed to find peace of mind right then. ¡°Oh, Irene. You¡¯re here.¡± She passed Tommy to Irene, and Irene saw the needle holes on his fingertips. ¡°They were drawing blood samples?¡± Sheryl nodded. ¡°Pediatrics had no idea what¡¯s happening to him, so they sent him here to get tested.¡° The Runaway Groom Chapter 244 The Runaway Groom Chapter 244 Chapter 244 Tommy was clearly ufortable in Irene¡¯s hold. He was iling his arms around, and was choking with tears from time to time, but not crying out loud. It was obvious that he was sick. Irene kissed his cheek, her heart aching for him. ¡°When did you notice that he was sick?¡± ¡°Before I called you,¡± Sheryl replied. Irene nodded¨Call they could do is wait for the test results. In the meantime, Irene took Tommy to somece quiet, hoping that he would be morefortable with less people around. However, that didn¡¯t seem to make things better for Tommy¨Che soon began to cry. Too young to put feelings to words, it was the only thing he could do. Knowing that he was in a bad condition, Irene told Sheryl, ¡°I¡¯ll get him checked. Wait here for theb results.¡± Sheryl nodded. ¡°Okay. Go on.¡± Irene brought Tommy to the outpatient service¨Cthe only option left for her was to examine any possible cause of difort. While she waited, theb results were soon out, and Sheryl rushed to Irene with it. Irene took a look and scowled, because she knew what it meant. ¡°Let me see,¡± the doctor said, and Irene gave it to him. ¡°I see¡­ There¡¯s thispound called 2S,6R detected in the boy¡¯s body. It¡¯s what causes his convulsions.¡± Sheryl didn¡¯t understand what he was saying, however, and pressed, ¡°What¡¯s that, doctor? How did he get sick?¡± ¡°He¡¯s not sick,¡± the doctor replied. ¡°This chemicalpound has to be ingested-¡± ¡°What?!¡± Sheryl eximed in shock and confusion. ¡± Tommy never took anything! Why would it be in his body? 11 ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it has to be ingested, and it¡¯s not a mistakenly gave it to him.¡± Sheryl tried to argue, but Irene cut her short. ¡°Mom, has anyone visited our home recently?¡± Sheryl thought about it and replied, ¡°No. It¡¯s just you, Isaac, and Ricky.¡± This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. There was no way Irene or Isaac would hurt their own child. Sheryl wouldn¡¯t do it either¡­ Which made Ricky the only possibility. Could it really be him? Irene would¡¯ve never suspected Rocky, but remembering all the things he had been up to recently made him a suspicious target. ¡°Irene¡­¡± ¡°Mom,¡± Irene cut Sheryl short again. ¡°Don¡¯t let Ricky near Tommy.¡± ¡°Why?!¡± Sheryl asked, and soon came to a realization.¡± Does that mean he was hurting Tommy?¡± Irene only had her suspicions, however. s, she didn¡¯t have evidence to form conclusions. ¡°Just go home for now, Mom. Don¡¯t tell Ricky about Tommy. Just say that I went looking for Isaac with him.¡± ¡°Okay¡­¡± Sheryl didn¡¯t understand what the doctor was saying or the nature of Tommy¡¯s condition, and so asked, ¡°Is this serious? Is that stuff going to hurt him?¡± Irene did not want her mother to worry, and so said, ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a relief,¡± Sheryl eximed. However, it wasn¡¯t until she left that Irene let her feelings show. They were lucky they noticed early, or else¡­ Even so, she couldn¡¯t bear Tommy being hurt repeatedly. ¡°I¡¯ll have your baby admitted to the hospital,¡± the doctor said, to which Irene nodded. She and the doctor had been acquainted for quite a while, and he was eager to help her¨Csuch as getting Tommy admitted right this moment. After some discussion, they decided to start his medication as well. Since he was a baby, keeping him at a hospital would allow him to be treated in time should he get sick again. It was only until the evening that Tommy became quiet. He slept after having some form milk. That was when Irene¡¯s phone suddenly started ringing. She immediately became wary when she heard the voice from the other end. The Runaway Groom Chapter 245 The Runaway Groom Chapter 245 Chapter 245 Ricky was the caller. He asked, ¡°I heard Tommy¡¯s sick. Is he better now?¡± Irene did her best to pretend that she never found out, and instead asked calmly, ¡°Who told you that Tommy is sick?¡°! ¡°Sheryl told me,¡± Ricky replied. ¡°My mom?¡± Irene eximed in feigned surprise, setting her bait. Ricky naturally took the bait, and pressed, ¡°What happened to Tommy?¡± Irene¡¯s gaze turned cool and vicious. She had believed that Ricky was different from Samantha, and so had done her best to encourage him, caring for him and making him feel like family. Yet¡­ ¡°Yeah,¡± she finally said. ¡°Is it serious?¡± Ricky asked worriedly. ¡°He¡¯s been admitted. You cane by to check on him if you¡¯re worried,¡± Irene told him. ¡°Alright, which hospital is it? I¡¯ll be right there.¡± Irene gave him a location before hanging up and calling Isaac. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Hello?¡± ¡°It¡¯s me. Can you send me some well¨Ctrained bodyguards?¡± Isaac grew tense right there and then. ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°Can you send them?¡± Irene refrained from mentioning Tommy. She didn¡¯t want to keep it from Isaac, but this was a matter that concerned her family. If it really was Ricky, Isaac would show now mercy if he found out¨Cjust as Irene wouldn¡¯t! ¡°Of course,¡± Isaac replied. Irene gave him the address and hung up. On the other end, Isaac thought he smelled something, fishy. Irene wouldn¡¯t ask for protection for no reason. After pondering for a while, he paged Debbie the secretary. ¡°Ask Jimmy toe to my office.¡± ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson.¡± Debbie did so soon after he hung up, and Jimmy the chauffeur arrived at Isaac¡¯s office in no time at all. ¡°Did Irene go anywhere after you took her to the Spencer Mansion?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°She headed to the hospital since there wasn¡¯t anyone home,¡± Jimmy replied. Isaac raised a brow, sensing a foreboding feeling¡­ Meanwhile, Iren had been waiting for half an hour at the hospital when Isaac¡¯s men arrived¨Cthere were five of them, and they all appeared well¨Ctrained. However, Irene asked for them not to beat up Ricky, but to protect Tommy instead. ¡°Please stay here and keep watch. No one is allowed to enter this ward without my permission,¡± she told them. ¡°Of course, ma¡¯am. Mr. Jefferson himself told us to follow any orders from you before we came. Just say the word.¡± J Irene smiled begrudgingly. ¡°I have none¨CI just hope that you can keep my baby safe.¡± Having made the arrangements there, Irene left the ward. The Runaway Groom Chapter 246 The Runaway Groom Chapter 246 Chapter 246 Irene was naturally relieved to have Isaac¡¯s men standing guard. She headed to the elevator, when Ricky happened to arrive, appearing tense. ¡°Where¡¯s Tommy? Is he better now? Can I visit him?¡± Irene calmly studied Ricky¡¯s face, intending to find a tell and perceive if his anxiety was feigned. However, he appeared to be too good an actor¨Cshe found nothing! ¡°Come with me, Ricky.¡± She entered the elevator and pressed the button to head downstairs. ¡°Is there something you need?¡± Ricky asked. ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene answered quickly. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll tell youter,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Okay.¡± Ricky did not say anything else. When the elevator stopped, Irene left the elevator first and headed straight to the parking lot behind the hospital, leading Ricky there. ¡°Irene? Why did you take me here?¡± Ricky asked, uncertain. Irene ensured that there was no one around before she answered him. ¡°I have a question¨Care you sure my mother told you that Tommy was sick?¡± Ricky didn¡¯t expect that from her and it showed on his face, but he quicklyposed himself. ¡°Y¨C Yeah.¡± He was too young, and his poker -face wascking as Irene stared into his eyes, he nervously averted his gaze. ¡°I had my mom promise not to tell anyone that Tommy¡¯s sick¨Cespecially you. I know her, and she always keeps her promise. Not to mention, she has even less reason to tell you because it concerns Tommy.¡± ¡°S¨CSo what?¡± Ricky forced a smile. Irene held her gaze as she continued, ¡°If I remember correctly, you seemed to know that Tommy got sick as soon as you called me. Only my mother and myself know, and if neither of us told you, how did you know that Tommy was sick?¡± Ricky became speechless and frantic right then, and his gaze was darting evasively. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I¡­¡± He was trying to exin, but stopped as if a cat got his tongue. ¡°Youced Tommy¡¯s form milk, didn¡¯t you?¡± Irene asked, now certain that Ricky was the culprit. Ricky panicked. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t mean to do it¡­ I never wanted to hurt Tommy!¡± His words were almost hysterical, but it was clear he was feeling guilty. Irene¡¯s demeanor turned cold. ¡°You¡¯re our father¡¯s only son, and I would¡¯ve given you the family estate in its entirety without taking anything. Why did you think I let you take management over Spencer Holdings? Why did you have to do this, Ricky?!¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything! Really!¡± Ricky was still trying to deny it as vehemently as he could. That was when Irene suddenly whipped out a scalpel and pressed it against his chest. ¡°I¡¯m a doctor, and I can reach your heart with pinpoint position. Don¡¯t think that this scalpel is too small to inflict any damage¨CI can ensure that you bleed out with just a little push, even if the hospital is right here!¡± She was naturally prepared when she called Ricky out here it was the reason why she brought him out here alone in the first ce. Ricky was petrified. ¡°S¨CStop¡­!¡± ¡°Are you going to talk now?¡± Irene pressed. Seeing that the cat was out of the bag, Ricky cried, ¡°I¨CI didn¡¯t want to do it¡­ Believe me¡­!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 247 The Runaway Groom Chapter 247 Chapter 247 Irene promptly cut Ricky short, disregarding his cries.¡± Don¡¯t give me that! Just tell me¨Cdo you still hold a grudge against me? Or did someone tell you to do this?!¡± Ricky quickly shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re family, I¡¯d never hold a grudge¡­ Someone threatened me.¡± ¡°Who?¡± Irene asked sharply. Ricky took out his phone and gave it to her. ¡°Look here- it¡¯s anonymous, so I don¡¯t even know who it is. I can¡¯t track the guys down, either.¡± Irene nced at the screen and frowned. ¡°Your mom¡¯s supposed to be in prison, isn¡¯t she?¡± ¡°I checked. She¡¯s really gone,¡± Ricky admitted,ing clean now that he has nothing to hide. ¡°Every text sent to me was encrypted, and they¡¯re threatening me with my mother¡¯s life! I can¡¯t-¡± ¡°So they told you to hurt Tommy?¡± Irene cut him short. Ricky nodded fervently. ¡°Yes! They seemed to know every detail about me, and gave me the substance by mail. They told me it won¡¯t hurt Tommy, but I knew that it won¡¯t do him good either¡­ S¨CSo I just put in a small amount¡­¡± Irene¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Fury soon overcame her, and she gave Ricky a tight p across the face right there and then. ¡°Why didn¡¯t youe to me first if you were in trouble? Did you think I¡¯ll forgive you just because you came clean?!¡± Instead of talking things out with her, he had to do things his way¨Chad he slipped up even a little, he could¡¯ve killled Tommy! Seething, she snarled, ¡°This is all your fault!¡± ¡°I know! I¡¯m sorry!¡± Ricky hung his head, a bright palm print glimmering over his face. Irene wasn¡¯t about to ept his apology. ¡°Tell me! What else did they order you to do other than poisoning Tommy?¡± ¡°They sent the information about the casino ship and told me to leak it to the media,¡± Ricky admitted. ¡°I¡¯m sure they want to stay anonymous, which is why they¡¯re using my mother as leverage so that I do everything for them.¡± Irene then remembered Stan telling her and Isaac that J Ricky was indeed the one who leaked the news to the media. However, who was the one controlling him? ¡°Look, I know it¡¯s all my fault. Please, please forgive me¡­ ¡°Ricky cried as he dropped to his knees before Irene. ¡± They have my mom¡­¡± Though Irene understood the gravity of the situation, she was still livid. ¡°I can¡¯t forgive you that easily,¡± she breathed through clenched teeth. ¡°Whatever the reason you had, you almost killed my baby!¡± ¡°I know,¡± Ricky sobbed, his eyes welling with tears. ¡°I¡¯m worried about my mom¡­ Even if she was terrible to you, I can¡¯t just leave her! She¡¯s still my mom¡­¡± Irene turned away. ¡°I¡¯ll settle thister, but the pressing thing right now is to find who they are. Otherwise, they¡¯d just hit us from the shadows again!¡± Ricky nodded repeatedly. ¡°Y¨CYes, of course¡­¡± Irene clenched her fists. ¡°I¡¯m your sister, but you still wouldn¡¯t trust me. You¡¯d rather be controlled like a puppet when there¡¯s trouble instead of talking to me. Get this in your head¨Cyou almost killed Tommy, and he¡¯s just a baby!¡± This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. Her words trailed off as her voice suddenly turned raspy. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± Ricky repeated. Irene didn¡¯t want to hear that now, and she simply told him, ¡°Just tell me right away if they contact you again¡ª two heads are always better than one.¡± Ricky nodded, while Irene mused to herself. She had no idea who could have enough influence to extract a prisoner out of a penitentiary, and was so intent on killing her baby. There was no question that they hated her to the bone, but who could it be? ¡°What should we do now? They¡¯ll keep pushing me if they find out that Tommy¡¯s fine¡­¡± Ricky pointed out. ¡°Go home for now. Tell me if you get another text,¡± Irene said, and returned to the hospital alone. Although there were people guarding. Tommy now, her baby was alone and she was worried¡­ However, she returned to his ward to find Isaac sitting by Tommy¡¯s crib. Why would he be there?! The Runaway Groom Chapter 248 The Runaway Groom Chapter 248 Chapter 248 Irene became tense immediately. Isaac¡¯s appearance took her by surprise. Still, sheposed herself as best as she could and smiled. ¡°Hey¡­¡± N?velDrama.Org content. Isaac looked up, his expression impassive. ¡°Where have you been?¡± ¡°I¨CI had something to do.¡± Irene fumbled to find the right words while deliberately avoiding Isaac¡¯s gaze as she walked to the table, pouring him a ss of water to hide her awkwardness. ¡°You haven¡¯t told me why you¡¯re here¡­¡± Isaac¡¯s voice turned cool. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I check on my son when he¡¯s sick?¡± Irene lowered her gaze, guilty. Isaac stared at her for a heartbeat, and turned grumpy. She wasn¡¯t going to tell him, even though Tommy was their child and was being harmed. Did she not trust him, or was there some other reason? ¡°I¡¯m taking Tommy with me,¡± he suddenly announced. Irene looked up right then. ¡°Why?¡± ¡°He¡¯s my son.¡± ¡°He¡¯s my son too!¡± Irene promptly shot back. Isaac held her gaze for a while before saying slowly, ¡°You think you¡¯d have a child without me?¡± Irene was speechless¨Che sounded just like a dirty old man! Still, she understood his temper and that she shouldn¡¯t get confrontational, so she conceded. ¡°Look, Tommy¡¯s sick. He shouldn¡¯t leave the hospital right now.¡± ¡°How did he get sick?¡± Isaac asked ¨C he wouldn¡¯t press the issue if she told him the truth. He had learned from Jimmy the chauffeur that Irene hade here, and quickly looked into it. He left work immediately when he found out that Tommy was sick, and had a general idea what was happening to his son after asking the doctor. It seemed that Irene also knew who hurt Tommy, though she was reluctant to tell him. ¡°Just leave this to me. Trust me,¡± Irene said, holding his gaze. ¡°Leave it to you? Trust you?¡± Isaac repeated coolly. Irene began, ¡°Look, it¡¯s a family matter-¡± ¡°And my son was involved. I have to take him away for the sake of his health, and I will hire the best doctor to care for him.¡± With those words, he scooped Tommy up in his arms, gently and carefully unlike the clumsy way he did the first time, seemingly having trained considerably to do it. Irrene tugged at Isaac¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Please calm down¡­¡± ¡°I am calm, Irene,¡± he said evenly. He certainly knew what he should be doing right now, too: the first was to keep his son safe, and the next was to find the person who did this and make that person pay- no matter who it was! For Irene¡¯s part, she understood that Irene was angry, and decided toe clean. Moreover, misunderstandings were unnecessary now that she and Isaac just confirmed their rtionship. Anyhow, they were still having trust issues. She was hoping that she could convince Isaac to leave the problem to her. ¡°It¡¯s Ricky,¡± she finally said. ¡°But it¡¯s not his fault-¡± ¡°Got it,¡± Isaac growled, cutting her short. Seeing that she had more to say, Isaac added, ¡°You¡¯re Tommy¡¯s mom, soe with me if you¡¯re worried.¡± Irene hesitated for a moment, but eventually nodded. ¡± Okay, I¡¯ll carry him.¡± Isaac did not let her, however. ¡°No, I can do it.¡± He had learned how to carry a baby in private. Though he was no master, he was certainly not unskilled. Irene pursed her lips, and tried to speak on Ricky¡¯s behalf. ¡°It¡¯s not his fault. He was being threatened¡­¡± ¡°Shush. Tommy¡¯s sleeping.¡± Isaac was clearly refusing to listen, so Irene had to stay quiet. The Runaway Groom Chapter 249 The Runaway Groom Chapter 249 Chapter 249 They left the hospital with the bodyguards escorting them, not to Isaac¡¯s mansion, but to the residence where he kept Irene prisoner before. There weren¡¯t many who knew about this ce, and it was rtively safer than Isaac¡¯s mansion. Moreover, he had arranged for people to keep constant watch for additional security. Zachary arrived just as they put Tommy on the bed- Isaac had called him here. He wasn¡¯t a doctor now, but he still had enough connections to find the best and most reliable pediatrician to act as Tommy¡¯s attending physician, no matter how much it cost Isaac. Although he had to resign as a doctor, which was his favorite job, he had to go with his mother¡¯s arrangement to work at te Industries for Lulu Adams¡¯s sake. Zachary searched his memory for a while, and soon came up with the right man for the job. ¡°Leave this to me,¡± he said. Isaac said, ¡°Make it fast.¡± Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Okay,¡± Zachary replied, and nced at Irene. ¡°Why would you need another doctor for your baby, though? You are a doctor¨Cwon¡¯t it be more reliable to have you care for him?¡± Irene, however, knew that Isaac asked Zachary¡¯s help because Isaac was angry with her. Anyway, she was a surgeon, and specialist pediatricians were better for the job. It was simply a matter of suitability.. That being said, no one could care for a child better than a mother. However, Isaac wanted a doctor to ensure that Tommy is safe for now. ¡°How are things with Lulu?¡± Irene asked, trying to change the subject. ¡°Well, she promised to let me marry her once I took over the family business,¡± Zachary said feebly. ¡°But if I can¡¯t¡­ He allowed his voice to trail off, but Irene understood it even though he left it unsaid. She sighed it seemed it was going to be a bumpy road for him and Lulu. Everyone seemed to be pushed around by things beyond their control, no? The next day was the end of the three day limit Henry gave Isaac, and he arrived at Sky Group headquarters. He could hardly eat or sleep over thest few days as he watched thepany¡¯s stocks plummet by the day. After all, how could he not feel anxious when his wealth was shrinking? As such, Henry personally convened a board meeting, demanding that Isaac exin himself to the board and forcing him to give up his position as CEO if he couldn¡¯t. Greg¨Cwho hadn¡¯t shown up for a long time¨Ccame with Henry. Henry had no choice but to side with his own son now that Isaac had obviously grown obstinate and wouldn¡¯t y to Henry¡¯s own tune. The fact that Henry abandoned Tommy and Irene was the straw that broke the camel¡¯s back. ¡°Isaac, I gave you everything. It¡¯s just a matter of thought if I want it back.¡± Henry¡¯s words were short and simple¨Che didn¡¯t even care to put up an appearance now. Isaac remained impassive, his thoughts inscrutable. On the other hand, Greg was in a good mood now that his old man was backing him¨Che had every reason to return! Leaning back on his chair and looking like he had already won, Greg gloated, ¡°Oh, Isaac¡­ The company¡¯s suffering terrible losses, but you can¡¯t seem to handle it. You have to exin yourself to everyone here now, don¡¯t you?¡± Isaac remained silent. After all, he had been managing thepany for years- there were those who would side with him even if he said nothing. To no one¡¯s surprise, someone soon spoke out, iming hotly, ¡°Ian Jefferson¡¯s crime is the reason our stocks are dropping! How is this Isaac¡¯s fault? You¡¯re being outrageous!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 250 The Runaway Groom Chapter 250 Chapter 250 Once the first board member loyal to Isaac spoke out, more board members nodded. Some rose to their feet and dered their support for him to keep his position as CEO. They had all seen Isaac¡¯s ability, and knew that they were only paid dividends despite holding small portions of thepany¡¯s shares because Isaac constantly led Sky Group to new heights. On the other hand, would they really be able to enjoy the same benefits without hard work if there was a change in leadership? They were naturally suspicious. Not to mention, Ian¡¯s crime called his father¡¯s character into question. That being said, Henry only called for the board meeting because he had privately contracted many board members, asking that they endorse Greg¨Cthat was why Greg appeared so confident. Naturally, Henry would rather support Ian because Ian was young and more or less capable. Unfortunately, Ian was now under investigation for his casino ship. There was no way Ian could be here, just as the board was unlikely to endorse a person with a potential criminal record. Thus, Henry was forced to endorse Greg instead. ¡°I think Greg will make a better leader. He¡¯s older and experienced ¨C he won¡¯t lose out to Isaac in any way, and he¡¯s also Isaac¡¯s uncle. Isaac should voluntarily step down in favor of his uncle instead of hogging it!¡± ¡°What are you talking about? Does age determine merit?! Someone snapped in protest right there and then. Ability speaks above all else. After goofing off for years, Greg won¡¯t even know what the market looks like these days!¡± The spacious conference room turned quite hectic, and the board member endorsing Greg was immediately silenced. Even with an estate passed down through generations and ruing enormous wealth in the process, it took hard work from each family head to retain it. Isaac, however, was the one who took things further. His feats were irrefutable despite his youth! ¡°I think experience speaks here¡­¡± ¡°What experience? Greg¡¯s just older¨Cis there anything that makes him better than Isaac?¡± Someone tried to speak for Greg again, but was once again silenced immediately. Even if Isaac knew that his grandfather wanted him out, he never contacted the board members or asked them to endorse himself. After all, he had measures in ce. The title of Sky Group¡¯s CEO did not matter to him. He was, however, deeply disappointed in Henry. It wouldn¡¯t be a far cry to say that he was now convinced that every Jefferson is a cold¨Cblooded reptilian; even himself! Not bothered to keep listening, Ian rose to his feet. Inform me when you havee to a decision, Mr. Henry Jefferson.¡± ¡°We¡¯re having a board meeting!¡± Henry snapped angrily. ¡°How could you leave as you please?¡± Henry was sure Isaac had bribed the people siding with him at the moment to fend Henry off. Leaving the meeting room was an obvious show of disrespect¨Ca gesture showing that Isaac thought nothing of Henry! Isaac leveled a cool gaze at Henry. ¡°Whether I keep my job or not means nothing to me.¡± In fact, Sky Group was nothing to him as he had been diverting various businesses to his own company overseas. If he stayed, Sky Group would remain the giant it was¨Cif he left, Sky Group would be nothing. ¡°You can havepany if you want, ¡± Isaac said evenly and casually. Henry was stunned, but he quickly came to his senses. Was Isaac doing this on purpose? Some of the board members were vehemently supporting him, after all¡­ Henry naturally doubted that Isaac didn¡¯t do anything behind the scenes, or that he didn¡¯t care about the Jefferson estate and being the CEO of Sky Group. The board members were certainly no fools¨Cthey were smart enough to know Isaac¡¯s worth, and became frantic the instant they heard that he might leave. After all, Sky Group would copse if Isaac really left. They therefore wanted nothing less than to make him stay. ¡°Henry, look¨Cthepany¡¯s stocks fell because Ian was messing around, and the media caught him in the act. That boy should take responsibility, but since he¡¯s under investigation, Greg should offer us an exnation ¡ª Ian is his son, after all.¡± Henry was left frowning, while Grey finally exploded. Ian may have caused trouble, but Isaac is in charge here! Shouldn¡¯t he be doing something to mitigate our losses? I¡¯ve even heard that he doesn¡¯t care at all, and simply left it with PR! Those useless scumbags don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on, let alone draft a n! That¡¯s why we¡¯re in this mess!¡± The conference room went silent, because Greg was actually right. Isaac was in charge, but he really did nothing to curb the issue and instead allowedpany stocks to keep falling. On the other hand, Isaac started to head towards the N?velDrama.Org content. door. After all, everyone at present was simply running in circles. Greg mmed his hand on the table and bellowed, ¡°Stop right there, Isaac Jefferson! Are you giving us an attitude when your grandfather is still here? Where are your manners? I¡¯m your uncle too¨Cdo you think you can leave just because you want to?!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 251 The Runaway Groom Chapter 251 Chapter 251 Isaac did not slow down or turn to look at Greg as he left, leaving Greg seething, ¡°You see, Dad?! You spoiled him¨Che has no manners at all!¡± On the other hand, Henry was pensive. He understood Isaac¡¯s temper. Does Isaac really not care about staying as CEO of Sky Group? Perhaps he had some trick up his sleeve? ¡°Dad-¡± ¡°Shut up!¡± Henry shot Greg a re. He wondered to himself how his own son could show next to no composure,pletely losing in style to his own nephew. Nheless, he noticed that things weren¡¯t going his way, and quickly decided to call off the meeting. ¡°Since everyone has their own thoughts on this matter, we won¡¯t being to an agreement so soon. Let¡¯s call off this meeting for now.¡± However, some of the board members were still vocally supportive of Isaac. ¡°Henry, I¡¯m sure there is a reason for this. Isaac has always managed thepany wlessly, and everyone can see that¨Cmoreover, nobody¡¯s perfect. I¡¯m sure we don¡¯t have to change CEOs over this.¡± Henry nodded, but clearly had other ns in mind¨Csuch as working on Isaac instead. ¡°I¡¯ll consider it,¡± he said. Grey panicked, convinced that his father would side with Isaac again. Didn¡¯t that mean he came all the way for nothing? ¡°Dad-¡± ¡°I know what I¡¯m doing.¡± Henry cut Greg short. Greg kept quiet, but on the inside, he was frantic. Meanwhile, Irene was staying at the residence in the Rose Garden and taking care of Tommy. She couldn¡¯t bear to put him in his crib even though he was asleep, and kept him. in her arms. Meanwhile, Isaac had arranged for doctors to check on Tommy from time to time. The doctor Zachary chose to be Tommy¡¯s attending physician had yet to arrive. After finishing his milk, Tommy appeared a little spirited and was bbing happily. Irene spoke to him in turn, ¡°When can you say Mommy, dear? Hmm?¡± ¡°Bah, bah-¡± Irene held him and gave him a peck on the cheek. ¡°I wish you¡¯d grow up fast, darling.¡± That was when her phone vibrated on the table. ncing at the screen, she saw that it was from home, so she answered. It was Sheryl. ¡°Irene, Ricky¡¯s in trouble¡­!¡± ¡°What happened?¡± Irene asked. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just got a call from the hospital, saying that he¡¯s in the ER¡­¡± Irene had a hunch. ¡°You should go check on him, Mom.¡± ¡°What about you?¡± Sheryl asked. ¡°I can¡¯t go now.¡± Irene replied¨Cshe couldn¡¯t leave Tommy right now, and she had to confirm if Isaac was involved first. ¡°Alright. Just take good care of Tommy¨CI¡¯ll call you if anythinges up,¡± Sheryl told her. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied, and hung up. She lounged on the couch for several seconds before taking Tommy with him and left the house, telling one of the bodyguards keeping watch outside, ¡°I need to go. Please get the car for me.¡± ¡°Where to?¡± he asked. ¡°To see Isaac,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Very well,¡± the bodyguard said. This time, it was not Jimmy the chauffeur, but two of the bodyguards who brought the car- one of them was keeping an eye on everything around them, while the other drove. Along the way, Tommy was a little restless as hey in Irene¡¯s arms, iling his little arms. and grabbing everything from her hair to her blouse. Soon, the car arrived at the headquarters of Sky Group.N?velDrama.Org content. Before Irene could reach for the door with Tommy in her other hand, one of the bodyguards had opened it for her. As such, she kept both hands around Tommy and alighted from the car before heading into the building and taking the elevator straight to the top floor. She knew where Isaac¡¯s office was and quickly arrived, but when she opened the door, she found a woman pressing herself sensually against Isaac¡¯s desk. The Runaway Groom Chapter 252 The Runaway Groom Chapter 252 Chapter 252 Irene froze instantly. On the other hand, the woman didn¡¯t notice her, and was still engrossed with caressing the desk¡­while imagining Isaac sitting there at work. ¡°Bah¡­¡± Tommy suddenly murmured, and Debbie the secretary promptly snapped out of her fantasy. She turned around but saw no one, although she found the door slightly ajar. Still, as she quietly walked up and opened the door she found nobody in sight. Breathing a sigh in relief, she straightened her clothes and left, closing the door behind her. Irene, who had been hiding behind a corner, appeared weirded out by Debbie¡¯s behavior. She looked down at Tommy, and took a deep breath to rx herself. The baby was blinking hisrge eyes and staying fixedly at her in turn, understanding none of it. Irene leaned in to give him a peck on the forehead, adjusted her hold on him, and then turned to take the elevator downstairs. It wasn¡¯t until she returned inside the car that she rxed. Even so, she felt the creeps and cringed hard when she remembered what Debbie had done. At the driver¡¯s seat, the bodyguard asked, ¡°Heading back, ma¡¯am?¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Yes.¡± As they drove home, she got a call from Isaac. ¡°Where have you been?¡± Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon,¡± she replied. ¡°Okay.¡± As Irene hung up, she nced at Irene and saw that Tommy appeared a little sleepy, and seemed to be dozing off in her arms. He was fast asleep when they returned to the house at Rose Garden, and as Irene entered, she found Isaac with Zachary and the doctor Zachary had rmended. Isaac walked up to take Tommy from her and headed further inside the house, and the doctor followed him. Irnee was just about to speak when Zachary told her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry¨CDr. Kyle is just giving Tommy a checkup. I think Isaac¡¯s just a little worried.¡± Irene knew that and actually felt the same, so it was what she had in mind as well. Moreover, a doctor that had Zachary¡¯s confidence would be no pushover. ¡°I¡¯m going in,¡± she said anyway. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ming with you.¡± Zachary agreed. They both entered to find Dr. Kyle examining Tommy from head to toe, and took a blood sample because the baby had been drugged. ¡°I¡¯ll inform you right away if I find something,¡± Dr. Kyle said as he put everything back in his briefcase. ¡°I¡¯ll walk you out,¡± Zachary said. After they were gone, Irene finally asked, ¡°Was there a problem?¡± Isaac looked into her eyes. ¡°No, Tommy¡¯s fine. Do you think I¡¯d let his poisoner live?¡± Irene stiffened, and tried to exin, ¡°Ricky was threatened¡­¡± ¡°He was the one who did it. His reasons don¡¯t matter,¡± Isaac spat icily. ¡°Well, have you calmed down now?¡± she asked. ¡°What, you¡¯re not upset?¡± Isaac studied her. ¡°Are you siding with him just because he was threatened?¡± From Isaac¡¯s standpoint, causes did not matter¨CRicky did it, and therefore must pay the price! Not killing him was already mercy. On the other hand, Irene wasn¡¯t feeling particrly sympathetic towards Ricky, but¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 253 The Runaway Groom Chapter 253 Chapter 253 Anything goes, as long as it appeases Isaac. ¡°Well, has Dr. Kyle agreed to work as Tommy¡¯s attending physician?¡± Irene asked. ¡°No,¡± Isaac replied. In fact, Peter Kyle did not appear attracted by any offer, no matter how much money he was promised. It seems that ambitions are just like Zachary¡¯s and Irene¡¯s, though he promised toe immediately should Tommy fall sick again. Zachary rmended Dr. Kyle because he hade into the country to further his career -to be precise, his girlfriend was local, and he decided to take up a career here to stay with her. Anyway, someone as talented as him was bound to find sess anywhere he went. Dr. Kyle¡¯s reason for not working as Tommy¡¯s attending physician was because he has to help other children as well¨Csuch was his obligation andpassion as a doctor. Irene was sure most doctors shared thatpassion, and wasn¡¯t surprised by Peter¡¯s response. Bzzt- Irene¡¯s phone suddenly started to ring, and she answered it outside. It was Miss Lang. ¡°I need a favor.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°There will be a dancepetition held in the city¡¯s sportsplex. I¡¯ve been picked as a judge, but I had somethinge up so I can¡¯t attend. I was thinking you can take my ce. Irene quickly refused. ¡°I don¡¯t think I could.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± Irene said, ¡°I don¡¯t have the qualifications for one, and I¡¯m quite busy at the moment.¡± ¡°It won¡¯t take that long,¡± Miss Lang pointed out, ¡°It¡¯s just one afternoon, so please help me out here.¡± Irene nced at Tommy, who was lying in his crib. She couldn¡¯t say yes to Miss Lang¡¯s request because she hadn¡¯t really taken good care of Tommy. Now that she had plenty of time to do it, she didn¡¯t want to do anything else. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I really don¡¯t have any time to spare¡­¡± ¡°Oh, I guess I shoulde clean¨CRobin Lynd actually asked for you. She¡¯s quite keen to have you adjudicate.¡± Irene narrowed her eyes immediately. ¡°What?¡± ¡°You asked me for an introduction before, right? She told me you¡¯re a friend now. Why else would she ask me to request that you adjudicate?¡± From Miss Lang¡¯s perspective, the request itself held no drawbacks. Only individuals who reached a certain qualification can be a judge, just as it was confirmation of their abilities. As such, she was sure that this was a good thing, which was why she agreed to help ask Irene to attend thepetition as a judge. Irene, however, was quick on her feet. She immediately realized that this could be a trap! ¡°Did she mention anything else about me?¡± Irene asked. ¡°No,¡± Miss Lang replied. ¡°Have you told her that I¡¯m a dancer myself?¡± ¡°I knew you might be busy, so I tried to turn down her request when she first approached me,¡± Miss Lang exined. ¡°I told her that you¡¯re not a dancer, but that seemed to make her more eager. It struck me as odd, but I also thought that she might be trying to help you as a friend.¡± Irene was almostughing inwardly. Now, she understood everything. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be there,¡± Irene said. ¡°But please don¡¯t tell her that I¡¯m a dancer. Also, I have a favor to ask¡­¡± ¡°Of course. Just shoot.¡± After Irene told Miss Lang what she had in mind, she asked, ¡°Can it be done?¡± Miss Lang thought about it for a while before saying, ¡°Of course.¡± Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°Oh, both of you really shouldn¡¯t be so polite,¡± Miss Langughed. They then chatted a while longer before hanging up, and Irene turned to find Isaac watching her. Looking around the living room, she asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Zachary?¡± ¡°He left,¡± Isaac replied. Irene nodded, and suddenly remembered what she saw in Isaac¡¯s office. ¡°Have you ever wondered if¡­ Debbie is into you?¡± she asked gingerly. The Runaway Groom Chapter 254 The Runaway Groom Chapter 254 Chapter 254 Irene¡¯s question left Isaac Jefferson frowning¨Cit seemed toe out of the blue. Why suddenly mention Debbie? That change in conversation was too quick and too random. ¡°She¡¯s just my secretary. Why did you ask that?¡± Isaac replied, realizing then that he had never observed Debbie. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. Irene¡¯s brow was wrinkled as she remembered what Debbie did with his desk. ¡°I saw her in your office when I went there¡­¡± There was an edge in her voice, but Isaac thought it was fine since Debbie entered his office from time to time while he was away. ¡°So? What of it?¡± Irene¡¯s lips twitched¨Cwas she being paranoid? But she clearly saw Debbieying on Isaac¡¯s desk, and what she did was¡­ Maybe she was imagining it? But she clearly was not! Still, Isaac¡¯s permanent scowl turned to a smile. ¡°Are you jealous, Irene? If you feel insecure that I have a woman working closely with me, I can get a change in personnel.¡± Irene blinked. ¡°You think I¡¯m being jealous?¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you?¡± Isaac chuckled. While Irene would admit that she was shocked to see what Debbie was doing and cringed at it, she wasn¡¯t actually jealous. Moreover, she was doing it to herself while Isaac was not in the office! ¡°I¡¯m not jealous.¡± Isaac pulled her to him and gathered her in his arms. ¡°Really? Hmm? As he leaned in beside her ear, his dank, warm breath sprayed all over her ear. It tickled, so she shrunk into her shoulders and gave in. ¡°Fine, I¡¯m jealous, okay?¡± Isaac gave her a peck on her cheek and nuzzled her ear. ¡°Well, that¡¯s just proof that you love me.¡± His voice was a little quiet, and noticing that, she quickly said, ¡°You hadn¡¯t been eating, have you? I¡¯ll go cook right now¡­¡± With that, she pushed him away and headed to the kitchen. Mrs. Watson wasn¡¯t here, so no one was cooking for them. Irene opened the fridge to find that it was empty. ¡°Should we go to the mall?¡± she asked. Isaac entered and wrapped his arms around her from the back. ¡°We can just eat outside.¡® ¡°Not right now,¡± she said quietly. ¡°We can do that, but Tommy¡¯s almost weaning. Not having anything in the fridge is just a little inconvenient.¡± Isaac couldn¡¯t say no since their child was concerned. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡± Irene suddenly looked up at him, noticing that he hadn¡¯t been busy with work for a while now. ¡°Why do I get this feeling that you have a lot of free timetely?¡± Isaac simply smiled. ¡°That just means I have more time to spend with you. Isn¡¯t that a good thing?¡± Irene smelled a rat, but did not press the issue since he wasn¡¯t going to say anything. ¡°Yes.¡± She smiled. ¡°Good. Now, let¡¯s go.¡± They left the house, and told the bodyguards to inform them right away should Tommy wake up. ¡°Of course.¡± The bodyguards nodded. Isaac put a hand around Irene¡¯s shoulder as they entered his car. ¡°There¡¯s something else,¡± Irene told Isaac after some thinking. ¡°Ricky poisoned Tommy because someone abducted his mother from prison. That¡¯s why¡­¡± As she continued, Isaac appeared impassive as he drove, but he was actually listening intently. ¡°I¡¯m thinking that they must hate the both of us. That¡¯s why they want Tommy dead¨Cbut I have a clue now,¡± Irene said, summing up what she learned from Miss Lang. ¡°I have a feeling it¡¯sn.¡± ¡°Why him?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°Do you remember his girlfriend, Robin Lynd? She wants me to be the judge in a dance.petition. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s as simple as it looks¨Cthere must be a trap, but I also want to find out if it was her andn who tried to hurt Tommy.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll look into it myself. You don¡¯t have to go,¡± Isaac said, worried that Irene would get caught in danger. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine¨Cthere¡¯ll be many people at the sportsplex. Plus, she¡¯d never do anything in public,¡± Irene countered. When Isaac still disagreed, she wrapped her arms around him and quipped, ¡°If you¡¯re still worried, you can put on a disguise and keep an eye on me from the darkness. You happen to be free the next few days, right?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 255 The Runaway Groom Chapter 255 Chapter 255 Isaac could never resist Irene when she was being so charming. Smiling begrudgingly, he said, ¡°Fine.¡± Irene beamed, and he lifted a brow. He asked, ¡°Are you really that happy about this?¡± ¡°I just wanted to see what she¡¯s up to,¡± Irene said. Isaac turned to study her¨Cshe was as indomitable as she was a risk¨Ctaker, but he liked that about her. He never cared for women who were too soft, something which Irene was not. She was actually tough and smart, but she wasn¡¯t hard as nails¨Cher body was just so soft that he didn¡¯t want to let her go whenever he had her in his arms. She certainly was the best of both worlds. They soon arrived at a mall, and Irene got a trolley once they alighted from the car. Mrs. Watson had always been making Isaac¡¯s meals, and all his other needs were seen by other personnel too¨Che had therefore never been to a mall himself. Since he wasn¡¯t used to it, he stayed quiet as he watched Irene and followed her around, eager to stay close and so he wouldn¡¯t be worried about losing her. Irene took his hand with her free hand, asking quietly, ¡°Never been to malls much?¡± Isaac nodded, but was not about to give in. ¡°Rarely.¡± Ireneughed. ¡°Just say you¡¯ve never been. You¡¯re a Jefferson, and people see to your needs since you¡¯re a child. You don¡¯t have to hide the fact that you¡¯ve never done this.¡± Isaac gave her hand a squeeze, asking quietly, ¡°Do you really find that funny?¡± ¡°¡­Alright, it¡¯s not funny.¡± Irene gave in right away. Isaac gave her a look. She had always been smart with him, teasing him and then giving up soon after¨Cthere was no way he could bring himself to punish her. And he couldn¡¯t help loving that about her. They strolled along and shopped, and it wasn¡¯t until an hourter that they left with two bags full of purchases. In the evening, Irene cooked, while Isaac carried Tommy around after he woke up. They seemed to be a normal married couple, with the wife cooking and the husband taking care of the child. Isaac asked, ¡°Has your mother picked a day for our wedding?¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied. ¡°She¡¯s going to be busy the next few days.¡± Isaac frowned. ¡°Why?¡± ¡°She has to take care of Ricky,¡± Irene gave him a ¡®you¨Cknow¨Cwhy¡® look. Isaac was speechless. Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Was this his fault? Absolutely not¨Canyone who hurt his son would pay the price! The next afternoon, Irene arrived punctually at the sportsplex. Most of the children who took part were girls. Robin approached her, smiling upon seeing her. ¡°Hey, you¡¯re here.¡± Irene smiled in return. ¡°Thought I should help, so I came anyway.¡± She pretended to be a little worried, even guilty. To no surprise, Robin was smiling smugly. Miss Lang told her that Irene couldn¡¯t dance, and so Robin said confidently, ¡°See youter.¡± ¡°Yeah, see youter.¡± Anyone could put up a guise, anyway! Right after Robin left, Irene put away her smile and scowled. The Runaway Groom Chapter 256 The Runaway Groom Chapter 256 Chapter 256 Irene was staring at Robin from the back, her lips curling in a smile as she was almost certain what Robin was up to now. While the other personnel were timing their clocks, Irene waited at the break room, where a man approached her. ¡°Are you an instructor?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± ¡°A fellow judge, then?¡± He continued¨Che was one of the judges as well. Like most male dancers, he was slim and exceedingly well¨Cgroomed, with his hairbed meticulously. The getup did not seem to make him shady, however, thanks to his sunny disposition. Irene was just about to answer when she spotted Robin nearby, and quickly pretended to look guilty as she whispered, ¡°I¡¯m a judge, but I¡¯m actually acting as a stand¨Cin.¡± ¡°Oh! I was just wondering that I¡¯ve not seen you before, since I¡¯ve been judging mostpetitions and met most of the other judges. You¡¯re not exactly a familiar face.¡® Irene hung her head low. ¡°Actually, this is my first time, so I don¡¯t know much about anything.¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine. You can sit beside meter,¡± the man offered warmly. ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied softly and meekly. ¡°Thank you.¡± The man chuckled. ¡°Oh, you don¡¯t have to be that worried¨Cyou just have to watch if the contestants are doing well, if their movements adhere to the rules. Just ask me if you¡¯re not sure about something. I¡¯m sure I can be of help.¡± Nearby, Robin was making a show of checking the contestant¡¯s dresses to disguise her eavesdropping. Irene naturally knew that Robin was doing that, and so started to whisper shadily as if afraid that others would hear. At the same time, Irene leaned towards the man to pretend to be sneaky, though she spoke just loud enough so that Robin could hear. ¡°I mentioned that I¡¯m a stand¨Cin, right? I actually don¡¯t know a thing about dance, let alone be a judge. Please keep this a secret¨Conly you know about this, but I don¡¯t even know how to dance myself.¡°, The man appeared perplexed. She became a judge even though she didn¡¯t know anything? That was a little too much, wasn¡¯t it not? ¡°But you¡­¡± He couldn¡¯t find the right words. ¡°Please, you have to keep this a secret.¡± Irene still looked very worried that she would be exposed, and the man actually understood why. Seeing her vulnerable look eventually convinced him. ¡°Alright. Your secret¡¯s safe with me.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± The man grinned. ¡°Well, I have to help a woman as beautiful as you. That said, I think you have the figure of a good dancer. Even though starting young is ideal, you can take up dancing now as an exercise and maintain your body shape. I can be your instructor if you¡¯re interested.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t spare the time¨CI¡¯m married, and things can get busy with my child.¡± The man did a double take¨Che certainly didn¡¯t expect Irene to be married with children! ¡°You don¡¯t look that old to me¡­ You said you already have a child?¡± Irene said, ¡°I¡¯m not that young, actually. The man appeared disappointed for a moment, but soon smiled. ¡°I couldn¡¯t tell. Anyone who didn¡¯t know better would take you for a university student¡­ Well, I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re an employee at some company, since you weren¡¯t involved in dance?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m a doctor, actually.¡± The man was once again surprised. ¡°What¡¯s your specialty?¡± ¡°I¡¯m a surgeon,¡± Irene replied simply. The man¡¯s eyes widened. Her figure was so dainty that she didn¡¯t appear to be the type who wielded a scalpel, not to mention that all surgeons needed a strong heart and stomach. Ady who appeared as delicate as her certainly had no business being a surgeon. ¡°Then, what could be your strengths-¡± This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. Before he could finish, one of the helpers entered and told them that the event was starting. The man had to stop, and helped Irene get her score cards. He even taught her how to use. it. ¡°The contestant will take to the stage in rounds, and each pair would have a number tag. Just give a tick to the pairs whom you think have done well.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Irene smiled. The contestants quickly filed into the stage and took their positions. The lights overhead shed as the music started, signaling the start of thepetition. On the sidelines, the cameramen would capture perfect snapshots of the contestants, while their parents watched from the seats above, keeping a close eye on their own children. Passionate jazz, bombastictin and alluring cha¨Ccha¨Cas the rounds proceeded, the thrill of the competition peaked. The cheers for the contestants were thunderous. Nheless, the host suddenly announced before thest round, ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, although the competition has proceeded to thest round, we must apologize as the results of thepetition will not be counted¡­¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 257 The Runaway Groom Chapter 257 Chapter 257 The entire sportsplex erupted in an uproar before the host could finish¨Cevery parent was absolutely livid, while the contestants were dumbstruck. They had been sitting there and waiting for so long, only to be told that thepetition didn¡¯t count. ¡°Why?! Our children had practiced so hard and did so well! Why shouldn¡¯t this count just because you said so?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right! I even applied for leave to watch my kids!¡± ¡°Are you calling the entirepetition moot? What happened? We need an exnation!¡± The parents were soon filing out of the audience seats and entered the court, causing pandemonium. ¡°Please calm down, everyone. We¡¯ve just received word that one of the judges is an impersonator, which is why we cannot ept the scores legally.¡± The voices of discontent only grew louder. N?velDrama.Org content. ¡°What¡¯s happening? How could someone impersonate a judge?¡± ¡°It¡¯s your own oversight, isn¡¯t it?¡± As variousints were belted at the organizers, the man who spoke with Irene just now came to a retaliation. Leaning in to whisper into her ear, he asked, ¡°Do you think you¡¯ve been found out?¡± Irene, however, was certainly aware that she was being targeted. Right now, Robin must be hiding somewhere, watching and anticipating Irene making a clown of herself. Pretending to be terrified, Irene asked, ¡°What should I do?¡± ¡°Why don¡¯t you leave for now?¡± The man suggested. Irene knew she would never escape, but agreed nheless. ¡°Yeah.¡± As she started to move, however, Robin darted out of nowhere and caught her by her wrist, while shouting to the disgruntled parents, ¡°It¡¯s her! She was pretending to be a judge although she doesn¡¯t know how to dance, let alone adjudicate! She¡¯s the reason thispetition is moot. me her if you want!¡± At her voice, everyone turned their crosshairs at Irene. Irene hung her head as if petrified, but only Isaac¨Cwho just entered¨Csaw the coldness in her eyes from the distance. She was brimming with confidence, so he simply watched without interfering. ¡°Who died and made you judge? Why take the chair if you can¡¯t do the job?¡± ¡°She can get anything with that pretty face of hers¡­¡± Believing that Irene knew nothing, everyone was convinced that she took the role of judge through unsavory means. ¡°My daughter practiced for over a month before thispetition, but it¡¯s all for nothing! How are you going to make up for our time and our children¡¯s efforts?¡± Some of the agitated parents were starting to get ahead of themselves, but the friendly male judge stopped them. ¡°She just came as a stand¨Cin. She didn¡¯t mean any harm,¡± he tried to exin, but it only made things worse¨Ceveryone became even more unhappy! ¡°What right does she have to be a stand¨Cin? Also, she means no harm?! She¡¯s hurting everyone anyway!¡± ¡°Yeah! She mustpensate us and apologize¡­¡± ¡°Compensation and apology? That¡¯s letting her off easy¡­¡± Robin was grinning as she watched everyone scorn Irene, but just as she thought she had won, Irene suddenly looked up, meeting the upset parents and said, ¡°Have I ever said I¡¯m not qualified?¡± While everyone was left stunned, Robin simply thought that Irene was making ast¨Cditch. effort to slip away. ¡°You¡¯re qualified? Who do you think you¡¯re fooling?¡± Robinughed. ¡°Just apologize already! ¡°Not just an apology! She mustpensate everyone!¡± As pandemonium ensued again, Irene calmly took out a card, ¡°You can verify if this is real.¡± It was her teaching license, which Miss Lang gave her a while ago. Robin was left in disbelief. ¡°How could you have one?¡± Irene simply waved it at her face. ¡°But I do have it.¡± Robin thought then that it must be a mistake¨Cno one could get a teaching license overnight, just as you could learn to dance overnight. Bolstered by the thought, Robin snapped, ¡°Even if you have that, it doesn¡¯t prove you can dance! It¡¯s nothing more than a fake!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 258 The Runaway Groom Chapter 258 Chapter 258 Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Feeling as if she had caught on to Irene¡¯s vulnerability, Robin¡¯s arrogance rose as she continued haughtily, ¡°I can guarantee everyone that you don¡¯t know a thing. You¡¯re a swindler, and you¡¯re pretending to be a judge and waste every contestant¡¯s hard work as well as their parents¡® time! I just want to know, how did you get here in the first ce?¡± Her words were hardly vague, and someone promptly chimed in, ¡°Just look at how weak she is. Most definitely the casting couch-¡± Before the man could finish, Irene turned and leveled him a re so sharp that he stopped immediately. Even the male judge who had been siding with Irene since the start was stunned by her re¨Cher delicate air seemed to fade right away, and there was fire in her eyes. A far cry from the delicate kitten just now! ¡°You¡¯ve been insisting that I can¡¯t dance, but what if I can?¡± Irene asked. Robin naturally doubted that. ¡°There¡¯s no way you can. If you prove that you can, I¡¯ll wipe this entire building with my bare¨Chands.¡± Irene suddenly became delicate again. ¡°R¨CReally?¡± Irene¡¯s fear made Robin believe that she was on the money, bolstering her confidence once more. ¡°Of course. Everyone here can be my witness.¡± Someone chimed in, ¡°Yeah! We¡¯re all watching! In reality, everyone was hoping for a miracle that Irene was a qualified judge, so that their children did not have to take part in the samepetition twice. There were some parents who thought that their children should have a second chance. since they weren¡¯t doing well just now, but they were very much the minority! Beside them, the male judge could see that Irene had been pretending to be vulnerable. She must be confident enough to ept Robin¡¯s challenge, or she would have tried to refuse. ¡°So? Do you have a tune in mind?¡± Irene quickly picked the tune she knew best, and that left Robin dumbstruck. ¡°A¨CAre you really going to dance?¡± Irene took off her jacket, revealing the dancing dress she was wearing underneath. Robin finally realized that Irene was prepared for this¨Cwhy else would she have that dress underneath? ¡°What-¡± The male judge stopped Robin, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s not sabotage thepetition on a whim. Let¡¯s see if Miss Spencer can prove herself.¡± Everyone else agreed, and watched expectantly as Irene took center stage. Soon, the music started. Irene had no love for dance, but it had been drilled into her as a child and therefore was all too easy. She seemed to float along to the tune, slowing and hastening ording to the rhythm with perfect choreography. Her movements were elegant; with her good looks and stunning figure, it was a feast for the eyes! The male judge¡¯s eyes widened in wonder. Isaac, who was sitting in a corner, appeared astonished too. He knew that Irene could dance, but he had to see it to know that she was great at it. Her confidence was certainly bewitching! Naturally, everyone¡¯s eyes seemed glued to Irene. On the other hand, Robin¡¯s expression turned from disbelief to sheer ashen! Once Irene was done, no one doubted her qualifications. With her license, she certainly was not the uninitiated and unqualified judge Robin said she was. She simply proved herself by actions. The male judge suddenly said, ¡°It seems that someone was intent on humiliating Miss Spencer.¡± Everyone quickly agreed, since Robin was so adamant and vindictive just now. It was obvious that she wanted to embarrass Irene. As everyone turned to stare at Robin, Robin realized that Irene had turned the tables on her, and that Irene had nned everything from the first ce. Irene pretended that she could not dance, and then pulled the rug from under Robin¡¯s feet. Robin had never suffered such ignominy! Clenching her fist indignantly, Robin red and spat angrily, ¡°You¡¯ve messed with me again, Irene Spencer! This isn¡¯t over!¡± Irene looked sharply at Robin in return. ¡°I agree¡­ But what was that you said earlier? That if I proved I can dance, you¡¯ll wipe this entire building with your hands?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 259 The Runaway Groom Chapter 259 Chapter 259 Robin was shaking with rage. ¡°You tricked me! That doesn¡¯t count!¡± The sportingplex they were at was so huge she would never finish wiping it for days, not to mention that she had to do it with her bare hands. Moreover, after suffering such ignominy, how was she supposed to stay in her department? Most importantly, how would others see her now? Robin wanted to harass Irene because Irene used Robin¡¯s naive trust in the first ce, and that caused problems forn. Unable to stand the indignation, Robin wanted to humiliate Irene in public, only to let Irene turn the tables on her. She wanted nothing less than to run at Irene and strangle her! Irene walked up to Robin, unfettered. ¡°I can let that go, as long as you answer my question truthfully.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± Robin thought that she was saved as Irene offered an alternative. ¡°You sent those anonymous texts to Ricky, didn¡¯t you? Did you also extract Samantha out of jail and hide her?¡± Those were questions Irene wanted very much to know, but Robin appeared puzzled. Ricky? Samantha? What are you talking about?¡± Irene narrowed her eyes and kept watching for signs that she was lying. ¡°Quit pretending.¡± ¡°Why would I pretend?¡± Robin said, looking as if she didn¡¯t know anything at all. ¡°Who are those people? Why would I hide someone, for that matter?¡± Robin was denying it, and Irene couldn¡¯t find any telling signs of lying. Hence, Irene couldn¡¯t do anything about it. ¡°Since you¡¯re denying it, please do what you promised to do earlier and wipe the entire building. Everyone here is my witness¨Cdon¡¯t try to wiggle out of it.¡± With that, Irene returned to the judge panel and told the organizers, ¡°It¡¯ste. We shouldn¡¯t waste time and proceed to thest round.¡± Even an idiot could tell what happened now¨CRobin wanted to humiliate Irene, only for Irene to turn the tables on Robin! Robin was crumbling on the inside, but forced herself to keep standing. She was flushed so hard, she was virtually bleeding as she had been made everyone¡¯sughing stock. She gained even more spite towards Irene, but she had to hold it in! When thepetition was over, Irene handed her scoring cards to the male judge. ¡°I have to go now. I¡¯ll leave this with you.¡± The male judge was only too happy to do so. ¡°Of course. Just leave it to me!¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Irene said and left. However, just as she stepped out of a side entrance, Robin appeared out of nowhere and stood in front of her, snarling, ¡°Irene Spencer!!!¡± Irene wasn¡¯t actually surprised that Robin showed up. Calmly holding her gaze, Irene said, ¡± I¡¯m sorry I exploited you when we first met, Robin, but I¡¯d do it again if I had to, since your boyfriend took my baby. But you let your spite get the better of you and tried to hurt my baby again, and that makes us enemies!¡± Irene was convinced Robin was the mastermind despite her denial, since she had been obsessed with getting back at Irene. In fact, beingn¡¯s girlfriend was plenty reason enough. Irene could not think of anyone else who would go the extra length to mess with her! ¡°Don¡¯t lie¨CI never hurt your baby! Also, I¡¯ll remember this.¡± ¡°You¡¯d better start wiping this entire building before that.¡± Irene did not want to waste her breath, and brushed past her to head for the exit. Robin was seething. She lunged at Irene, intent on tearing Irene into pieces without regard for herself. ¡°Irene Spencer!¡± she bellowed as she grabbed Irene¡¯s hair. Irene knew Robin would be furious, but didn¡¯t expect Robin to grab her hair like a maniac. Just as Robin was about to pull Irene down to the floor, a dark blur suddenly reached them; it caught hold of Irene firmly around her waist while kicking Robin away. Robin wobbled backwards for a few paces, but eventually lost her bnce anyway and fell like a rag doll. She couldn¡¯t get up for a long time afterwards as her thighs and rump burned, her face contorting and turning pale from the pain. N?velDrama.Org content. The agony from her belly where she was kicked was even worse, and it felt like someone had twisted her intestines into a knot! Irene looked up to see the pronounced facial features of a man, who was ring sharply at Robin. At the same time, she smiled in relief, her body rxing. The male judge had seen everything that happened from a corner, stopping in his tracks for a moment. In the end, he walked towards them anyway. The Runaway Groom Chapter 260 The Runaway Groom Chapter 260 Chapter 260 The male judge had brought the jacket Irene forgot. He was about to help when he saw Robin grabbing Irene¡¯s hair, but someone beat him to it. ¡°Miss Spencer? You forgot your jacket,¡± he said, holding it out to Irene. Irene was going to reach for it when Isaac took it, casting a cool re at the male judge and showing no inclination of thanking him. He had seen how mesmerized the male judge was when Irene was dancing¨Cthe man was just using this as an excuse to talk to Irene. Irene, however, thought that Isaac was being impolite since she did forget her jacket. She smiled at the male judge. ¡°Thank you. You¡¯ve helped me a lot today.¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± he smiled back. ¡°This gentleman is¡­¡± ¡°My husband,¡± Irene replied. Isaac had been keeping a profile, which left the male judge thinking that he was an average Joe. He couldn¡¯t resist sizing up Isaac at that¨Cdeciding that Isaac was just a little taller and handsome, but nothing else, and certainly was not as gentlemanly as him. Those cold eyes were also a clear sign of Isaac¡¯s bad temper. ¡°Miss Spencer-¡± The male judge tried to say more, but Isaac quickly put a hand around Irene¡¯s waist and cut him short. ¡°We should go.¡± Irene nced at Isaac but said nothing, and left with him. It was only until they got in his car and drove off that she finally asked, ¡°Why do I have a feeling you¡¯re annoyed? Even a little hostile towards that male judge?¡± Isaac kept driving silently. Knowing his temper, Irene did not press him since he wasn¡¯t going to answer. Changing the topic, she decided to dissect the current situation. ¡°I¡¯m sure Robin was the one who tried to hurt Tommy, but there¡¯s another mastermind. Without help, Robin wouldn¡¯t be able to do much on her own. She couldn¡¯t have gotten Samantha out of prison. -the only people who can do that aren, your uncle, and your grandfather.¡± It was her theory, especially since Robin had a motive. Isaac agreed with Irene¡¯s opinion¨Che wouldn¡¯t be surprised with whatever they tried to do now. ¡°They want control over Sky Group,¡± he said. ¡°Always have a bodyguard with you when leave the house.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°But what about you¡­?¡± you ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Isaac said, and suddenly stopped the car on the side of the road. ¡°Why are you stopping?¡± Irene asked in curiosity. ¡°Do you have something to do?¡±Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org. Isaac did not answer, and was simply staring at her. ¡°Is there something on my face? Why are you just staring?¡± Irene even reached up to feel her own cheeks. Isaac suddenly leaned in and kissed her, leaving her eyes widening and her curledshes twitching. His kiss was firm but brief, though the single instant almost left Irene¡¯s heart leaping out of her chest! ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡± Why the sudden passion? Isaac was still staring at her. She rarely dressed alluringly, and wouldn¡¯t put on makeup unless she had to. As such, seeing her dance for the first time was especially bewitching for Isaac. ¡°You looked so beautiful on the dance floor,¡± he confessed quietly. Irene was speechless. Was that the reason? ¡°You have a lot of hobbies, don¡¯t you?¡± Isaac asked¨Cshe always seemed to surprise her, shining bright like a star and was capable of charming any man. Irene smiled feebly. ¡°My father forced me into it.¡± ¡°He loved you,¡± Isaac started as he started the car. Irene stared at him for a while, and said, ¡°If I told you that my father had me learn all that to seduce you, would you still think better of him? Screech- Isaac jammed his foot on the brakes. Once the car stopped, he asked, ¡°What was that?¡± *Spencer Holdings was never in a crisis¨Cmy dad was lying. It was an excuse to have me marry you. In fact, he had me learn so many arts: dancing, piano, painting, and even swimming¡­ Just to groom me as this multi¨Ctalented maiden to earn your favor. He keeps insisting there¡¯s no future to being a doctor, and I should just get married instead.¡± Irene sighed lengthily as she remembered Lionel Spencer. She slowly came to believe that he wasn¡¯t as terrible as she assumed, and that he actually wanted the best for her in his own strange way. Even if things had been unpleasant between them, remembering him hurt her somewhat; and she actually thought she missed him. Meanwhile, Isaac kept staring at Irene. Then, heughed. The Runaway Groom Chapter 261 The Runaway Groom Chapter 261 Chapter 261 As Isaac keptughing, Irene was left mystified. ¡°What are youughing about? Me?¡± ¡°No,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°I¡¯mughing at myself for falling for your dad¡¯s ploy.¡± Irene was silent for a while, andughed as well when she came to a realization. ¡°You like that about me?¡± she asked. ¡°I do,¡± Isaac said,posing himself as he continued, ¡± And I like that it¡¯s you.¡± Even if Irene knew none of that, he would have fallen for her anyway. Knowing that simply made her a more colorful personality. Irene naturally did not try to nitpick, since it was her either way. ¡°She may have been foiled this time,¡± she said, returning the conversation to Robin. ¡°There¡¯s no telling what she¡¯ll be up to next.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll have Stan keep an eye on the Jeffersons,¡± Isaac replied calmly and quietly-as if they didn¡¯t matter to him. Irene knew she couldn¡¯t be of help when it came to work. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to not get in the way.¡± ¡°Right, I should go to the hospital,¡± she added, since she had yet to check on Ricky. ¡°I know you hate him because he poisoned Tommy, and I do too. But my father entrusted his care to me, so I can¡¯t abandon him.¡± Isaac didn¡¯t respond, but drove her to the hospital anyway. They soon arrived. Knowing that Isaac would not want to see Ricky, Irene said, ¡°I might stay for a while. You should go.¡± Isaac certainly didn¡¯t want to see Ricky, and so said, ¡°I¡¯ll tell Jimmy toe take you home.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied, and stayed at the entrance, watching as Isaac drove off before heading inside. Irene called Sheryl, and quickly found Ricky¡¯s ward. When she entered and found him lying in bed, she saw that his face was still swollen, his right eye purple, and his arms and feet were all bandaged. Irene certainly knows Isaac¡¯s methods-she was once his victim, after all. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± she asked. He was awake, and when he saw her, he quickly asked, Did you know?¡± Irene knew he was referring to Isaac sending his people to beat him up. ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± she admitted. Ricky scowled anyone would feel miserable after getting beaten up. Walking up beside his bed and pulling out a chair to sit, Irene asked, ¡°How bad is it? What did the doctors say?¡± Ricky didn¡¯t answer, and instead held her gaze and asked, ¡°Would you have stopped him if you knew?¡± Irene turned quiet, because she had no idea. However, Ricky didn¡¯t seem to me her since her son came first. ¡°One broken arm, while the other are just bumps and bruises. I guess Isaac just wanted to rough me up a little as reprisal for Tommy. He wasn¡¯t trying to kill me.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± Irene said and helped him pull his nket up to his shoulders. ¡°I¡¯ll keep things together at Spencer Holdings for now.¡± Ricky nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± That was when his phone suddenly vibrated. Instead of checking it, he told Irene, ¡°I¡¯m thirsty. Can you get me a ss of water?¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Irene went over to the thermos sk nearby, but it was empty. ¡°I¡¯ll get it from the dispenser outside. Ricky nodded. After Irene left, he whipped out his phone to see that it was another text from that anonymous sender. [Do you want to see your mother?] Ricky replied without hesitation: [Can I?] [You didn¡¯t seed in your task, but you at least did it. I¡¯m kind enough to let you meet her.] [Thank you.] [12 a.m., Timberwest Road. The Equestrian Club behind.] [Okay.] Ricky was actually thrilled -he had been worried about Samantha all this while. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. She was safe in prison, but it wasn¡¯t the case now that she was out. Irene happened to return just then and saw the look on his face, and asked, ¡°Did something good happen? You look lively.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 262 The Runaway Groom Chapter 262 Chapter 262 Ricky quickly tried to hide it. ¡°Nothing¡­¡± ¡°Really?¡± Irene asked as she passed him his ss of water, clearly sounding doubtful. Ricky averted his gaze, but soon came up with an excuse. ¡°The logistics issue we had? It¡¯s been resolved.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°You did well.¡± ¡°But you came up with that idea,¡± Ricky reminded her. In fact, he was a little jealous. He must admit, their father had insight. Even though it wasn¡¯t one of Irene¡¯s strengths, Lionel left Spencer Holdings in her care anyway, and she learned. quickly enough to resolve a potential crisis. ¡°I¡¯m not that older than you. Just keep your mind working, and you¡¯ll surpass me in a few years,¡± Irene said encouragingly the boy had matured considerably since Lionel¡¯s passing. Ricky shed a rare smile. ¡°Alright. Anyway, I think I¡¯m fine here. You still have to take care of Tommy, don¡¯t you? You should go.¡± ¡°Okay. Contact me anytime if somethinges up,¡± Irene said as she stood. ¡°Don¡¯t forget your water.¡± ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Ricky replied, reaching out with his good hand. Irene nodded and left the ward, closing the door behind her. She then ran into Sheryl on the walkway, who was carrying boxes of food. ¡°Were you visiting Ricky?¡± she asked, happy to see her daughter. Irene nodded, ncing at the food she was carrying. ¡°You made those?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Sheryl replied. ¡°The food is as nd as it¡¯s This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. unwholesome here.¡± Irene was surprised by how much Sheryl was caring for Ricky. Did she now consider him her own son? Sheryl seemed to read Irene¡¯s mind, and gave her a tender look. ¡°Jealous?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No. In the end, he¡¯s still Samantha¡¯s son.¡± It couldn¡¯t be denied that Samantha was the reason Sheryl and Lionel¡¯s marriage soured. Sheryl, however, had long since gotten over it since Lionel¡¯s passing, while Samantha received her just deserts for her heinous deeds. Ricky was just a child-he couldn¡¯t have chosen his birth, and he wasn¡¯t a bad person. Living with him more or less made Sheryl care about him as well. Moreover, Sheryl had lost a baby too, making her more sympathetic even though she still had Irene. Still, Irene thought that Sheryl was reminded of her unpleasant past, and so said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom. I¡¯ll take care of you when you get older.¡± ¡°Oh, so petty even you¡¯re a mother yourself now?¡± Sheryl smiled and gave Irene a gentle smack before asking, ¡°Are you leaving now?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I¡¯ve already checked on Ricky. ¡°Okay. You don¡¯t have to worry about anything with me here, actually. Just take good care of Tommy,¡± Sheryl told her. Irene nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll be going.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Sheryl waved. ¡°Run along now.¡± However, Irene was just about to when Sheryl suddenly remembered something and stopped her, ¡°Wait-I¡¯ve actually thought about when you should get wed. What do you think about October, when the climate cools? I think it¡¯d be nice.¡± Sheryl had actually asked others¡¯ opinions about that, and all of them agreed that it was a good idea. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind,¡± Irene replied. She was in no hurry since Tommy was still an infant and needed much care. Also, Isaac was busy with his family issues, and the near future wasn¡¯t a good time to tie the knot. ¡°I think we should do it earlier. I¡¯m worried more things would pop up,¡± Sheryl said, hoping that they would tie the knot-it meant one less thing to worry about, at least! ¡°I¡¯ll discuss it with Isaac,¡± Irene replied. Sheryl nodded. Jimmy the chauffeur was already waiting for Irene when she stepped outside the hospital, and she got in, asking casually, ¡°Isaac sent you?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Jimmy replied. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± she said, leaning against the door. The Runaway Groom Chapter 263 The Runaway Groom Chapter 263 Episode 263 When Irene returned to the house at Rose Garden, she washed her hands before going to Tommy. She was surprised to find someone carrying her baby. ¡°Mrs. Watson?¡± she eximed. Mrs. Watson smiled. ¡°Mr. Jefferson sent me. He said there must be someone caring for Tommy at all times.¡± Isaac certainly wouldn¡¯t befortable with asking a stranger¡¯s help, and hence sent Mrs. Watson. Irene was pleased that it was Mrs. Watson, since the ¡°I¡¯m so relieved to have you here!¡± Irene smiled. Mrs. Watson then passed Tommy to Irene. The baby was wide awake, but suddenly started to frown. Knowing that he had just pooped, Irene pinched his button nose. ¡°Made a stinky, did we?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll get him changed,¡± Mrs. Watson offered. ¡°No, I¡¯ll do it,¡± Irene insisted¨Cin her mind, she owed her own son much for being unable to care for him before. Now that she had all the time to do it, she certainly would. ¡°Very well. I¡¯ll get a bucket.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. Shey Tommy down, taking off his diaper and throwing it away, before getting some wet wipes to clean his backside. ¡°Is Isaac out?¡± she asked casually. Mrs. Watson nodded. ¡°Yes, he left after receiving a call.¡± ¡°I see,¡± Irene replied as she continued to clean Tommy, who appeared perfectlyfortable now and not at all interested in sleeping. He could sit up now, so Irene sat down on the couch and yed with him, amusing him with a toy. Mrs. Watson suddenly said, ¡°Mrs. Jefferson, I must give it to you ¨C you were staying at the mansion with us for so long, but I¡¯ve never known that you were pregnant.¡± Mrs. Watson was stunned when she first saw Tommy, and left speechless to learn that he was actually Irene¡¯s son! Irene smiled but stayed silent, since the matter was quiteplicated. ¡°I¡¯m just so happy,¡± Mrs. Watson then added. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen Mr. Jefferson so gentle.¡± She was certainly dumbfounded when she came over and saw Isaac holding Tommy in his arms! He had always been lofty and aloof, but he carried the baby so carefully that she thought she was imagining things. Naturally, she knew that he changed because of Irene. In the years she worked for him, he was slowly bing a new person ever since Irene came to his life. Irene kept ying with Tommy, and said offhandedly, He¡¯s just a little cold and empathetic.¡± Mrs. Watson shook her head. ¡°Not really, ma¡¯am. Mr. Jefferson simplycked familial warmth because he lost his parents as a child. He may seem aloof, but he actually has a lot of empathy.¡± Sighing, Mrs. Watson continued, ¡°You¡¯ve heard recent developments, haven¡¯t you? His grandfather wants him to step down as CEO so his uncle could take over. He respected his grandfather all this while, only for his only family to betray him too.¡± Irene knew that Isaac was having trouble with the Jeffesons, but not that much. Mrs. Watson¡¯s words made her realize that she didn¡¯t care or understood Isaac enough. This content is ? N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Well, you¡¯ll get along just fine with Mr. Jefferson now that you have a child together.¡± Mrs. Watson smiled. In the end, Isaac was just aloof in appearance¨Che wasn¡¯t heartless, but he had to stay distant because of his environment. Irene nodded. ¡°I know.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll wash Tommy¡¯s clothes now,¡± Mrs. Watson said. She left, while Irene was pensive. She could feel Isaac¡¯s yearning for kinship for quite some time, and she realized that she wasn¡¯t showing enough concern. The clock on the wall kept ticking, and soon, it was already 1 a.m. Isaac hadn¡¯t returned, while Tommy was fast asleep. Irene, who had been waiting for Isaac, was feeling a little drowsy as well. But just as she closed her eyes, the door clicked and opened. Sitting up and turning towards the door, she called out, Isaac?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 264 The Runaway Groom Chapter 264 Chapter 264 Isaac entered, and asked, ¡°You¡¯re not sleeping yet? Did I wake you up?¡± ¡°No, I was waiting for you,¡± Irene replied. She got off her bed and gave him a hug, resting her face on his chest. The move surprised Isaac, and he stiffened for a while before asking with a smile, ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± she replied. ¡°Just wanted a hug.¡± Isaac looked at her, ¡°Let go. I¡¯ll be back after a shower. I¡¯m filthy right now.¡± Irene tightened his embrace instead, gluing herself to him. ¡°What is it?¡± Isaac asked quietly, feeling as if she was not in her right mind. Irene rubbed herself against his chest. ¡°From now on, I¡¯m your family wherever you go. I love you.¡± His quiet voice turned raspy right then. ¡°Really, now¡­ What¡¯s gotten into you?¡± ¡°Nothing. I just missed you and wanted a hug,¡± Irene stood on the balls of her feet to kiss him. He was stunned, and though he responded enthusiastically, he pulled away spoon enough. ¡°I need to take a shower.¡± Irene actually found that odd about him. He would have hugged her back if it was any other day¡­ Had he lost interest in her? She was naturally bbergasted by the thought. ¡°Did you fall out of love already?¡± ¡°What are you talking about?¡± he eximed, but he still was not touching her. ¡°I saw a corpse on my way back. It¡¯s bad mojo, and I don¡¯t want you to get it.¡± Irene wasn¡¯t surprised, since as a doctor, she saw many herself. Moreover, not a day went by without a patient passing away in a hospital. Therefore, she was less afraid than curious. ¡°A corpse? Thiste at night?¡± Isaac was silent for a while, before answering, ¡°It¡¯s Samantha.¡± Irene spaced out for a long time at his answer, and thought that she was hearing things. ¡°Who?¡± ¡°Samantha, Samantha White. I received this text giving me an address around 10:30, saying that I¡¯d find her there. I brought my people along and headed there around eleven, where we found her dead on the scene. After that, we searched the area around and tried to trace the sender, but we got nothing. That¡¯s why I waste.¡± Irene smelled a rat as well. ¡°When Ricky was told to poison Tommy, it was the same thing: an anonymous sender that can¡¯t be traced¡­¡± Isaac agreed. ¡°What was their point in luring me there? Did they just want me to see her corpse?¡± Irene frowned-it could not be that simple. ¡°Did Stan find anything?¡± ¡°Not yet. The Jeffersons are quiet,¡± Isaac replied. N?velDrama.Org content. In reality, it was not as if they were being quiet¨Cthey had made their move, but Isaac simply found out beforehand and foiled them. It was why he had been busy. However, he didn¡¯t tell Irene to spare her from worry. ¡°It¡¯s not their style. Maybe they¡¯re being quiet but actually making a move in secret?¡± Irene guessed. Isaac wondered if it was a misdirection as well. Were they trying to use Samantha to cause a stir? It couldn¡¯t be, because he and Samantha were not close. Irene was confused as well. ¡°Ricky would be devastated if he finds out his mother is dead. Do you want to check on him?¡± Isaac pointed out. ¡°Let¡¯s leave that for tomorrow. He probably doesn¡¯t know, and it¡¯s already veryte,¡± Irene said, ncing at the clock which showed that it was 2 a.m. ¡°I¡¯ll go to the hospital early tomorrow.¡± ¡°Okay. Go to sleep for now. I need a shower,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Yeah, alright.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 265 The Runaway Groom Chapter 265 Chapter 265 Irene did not get in bed immediately. She went to check on Tommy instead, just taking a look since Mrs. Watson was taking care of the baby. Tommy was sound asleep, so she tiptoed out of his room and returned to the master bedroom. There she sat on the bed, unable to sleep, resting her hand on her head and wondering who their adversaries were. However, she could note up with anyone other than Robin and the Jeffersons. Meanwhile, Isaac stepped out of the shower to find her sitting on their bed. He made hery down as he moved on top of her. As he retained warm, moist kisses on her, the mood was getting just right when they heard Tommy¡¯s sudden cries. Both of them paused, though Irene came to her senses first and tried to push Isaac off. ¡°Tommy¡¯s hungry.¡± ¡°Mrs. Watson would feed him.¡± ¡°But¡­¡± Hereback was stopped by a kiss right there and then. Soon, she was drowning in a night of unending passion. The lights were still up at the Jefferson Manor¨Cboth Henry Jefferson and his son Greg were looking grim since they failed to topple Isaac. Greg¡¯s wife¨CQuincy Moore¨Cwas with them as well. After all, Henry wasn¡¯t even bothered to hold old grudges now. He was too old for that. ¡°Nothing is going smoothly, huh?¡± Greg grumbled. Isaac had pretty much destroyed his son Ian, giving no chance of bailing Ian out as Ian appeared headed for prison. Moreover, Isaac¡¯s current position in Sky Group seemed untouchable. Henry appeared somber, since Isaac¡¯s influence was not to be underestimated. ¡°What do you think we should do, Dad?¡± Greg asked frantically. ¡°Didn¡¯t Ian¡¯s girlfriend have a n to embarrass Irene? How did it go?¡± Henry asked. It would¡¯ve been better if he did not mention it¨CRobin¡¯s case had been another cause for grief. She was actually forced to wipe the floor of the sportingplex as she promised, with people constantly keeping an eye on her to ensure that she did so. It seemed she would have to continue tomorrow as well, since it was at least a two¨Cday job, given that she was doing it with her bare hands. Not only was her ns foiled, she ended up paying dearly for it¨Ceven with Quincy Moore¡¯s help, since she never had much influence to cause trouble in the first ce. While they believed that the people watching Robin were offended parents, they were actually Isaac¡¯s people. ¡°So, a dud?¡± Henry understood immediately just from the awkward look on Greg¡¯s face. ¡°Isaac¡¯s no pushover. You had to give him so much power that he got full of himself, Henry. Now, he wouldn¡¯t even listen to you,¡± Quincyined. ¡°Shut up!¡± Greg snapped and immediately shot her a re¨Cthings just improved for them since his father was now on their side. Quincy went quiet, but not out of fear; it was toote to say anything now. The only thing they could do for the time being was to work together and topple Isaac¨Cthat was the only way they could rescue Ian. ¡°Sir, I have an idea, but I don¡¯t know if it¡¯d work,¡± Moneypenny chimed in.. ¡°Tell us!¡± Greg eximed before Henry could say anything ¨C he was so desperate, anything would do for him right now. Moneypenny, however, kept his eyes on Henry. He would only speak with Henry¡¯s permission. Henry raised a hand. ¡°Tell us.¡± ¡°Well¡­¡±This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . The Runaway Groom Chapter 266 The Runaway Groom Chapter 266 Chapter 266 Moneypenny took a moment to find the right words before saying, ¡°Master Isaac is only able to focus on confronting us because he has no domestic concerns. If he did, he would be distracted, and that would afford us an opportunity. ¡°Oh, Moneypenny is right!¡± Quincy eximed. Though she was middle¨Caged, no one could tell because she did her best to look younger. She nudged her husband with her elbow. ¡°Come on, say something.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a good n, but how do we do that?¡± Greg pointed out. Henry had stayed quiet exactly because of that ¨C Irene and Isaac were getting along wonderfully now, and their child only strengthened their bond. ¡°That¡¯s easy. Just drive a wedge between them!¡± Quincy eximed, an idea urring to her. ¡°Any couple in a rtionship would always be wary of homewreckers. Things would get shaky once one showed up, right?¡± Nheless, Greg found it was difficult. ¡°But Isaac is smart. Would that really work?¡± Quincy shot him a look. If only he could get his act together¡­ the entire Jefferson estate wouldn¡¯t have fallen straight into Isaac¡¯s hands in its entirety! Naturally, she would never say that out loud since all men had their ego, and she would allow Greg to keep his . because they couldn¡¯t afford to fight amongst themselves right now they had to form a unified front to topple Isaac first! ¡°Henry, didn¡¯t you have the right person for the job?¡± Quincy smiled, turning to the elderly man. ¡°You mean Kathy York?¡± Henry shook his head immediately. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that won¡¯t work.¡± Quincy was puzzled. ¡°Why not?¡± ¡°I had her pass herself off as Isaac¡¯s savior and even arranged for her to work in the same building with him, but he showed no interest and actually threw her to a branchpany. How could she affect them at all when Isaac refused to even look at her?¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Quincy¡¯s eyes twinkled right then. ¡°That¡¯s easy. If Isaac thinks he owes her for saving him, he¡¯d definitely do something if I threatened her.¡± After all, Quincy was the one who tried to drown Isaac before. As it turned out, someone rescued him after she left. Now that everyone assumed that Kathy saved Isaac, it was only natural for Quincy to hold spite for Kathy. Henry watched as the others schemed, and eventually said, ¡°Do as you see fit. I¡¯m tired.¡± ¡°Of course, Henry. You should rest.¡± Quincy walked up to him eagerly, but she was just about to go and help him to his feet, Henry told her, ¡± Moneypenny will help me. Just do what you have to do.¡± Quincy took no offense and told Moneypenny, ¡°Take good care of him.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Moneypenny replied. After they were gone, Greg came up to her and asked, ¡°Is your n really going to work?¡± ¡°Why not?¡± Quincy was brimming with confidence. ¡± Isaac isn¡¯t heartless¨Che may not like Kathy, but he¡¯d do something if I threatened to hurt his savior.¡± ¡°But how¡¯s that going to drive a wedge between Isaac and Irene?¡± Greg asked. Quincy rolled her eyes. She really wanted to ask where he put his brains. Nheless, she patiently exined, ¡°All women are petty, especially when ites to their partners. Ire The Runaway Groom Chapter 267 The Runaway Groom Chapter 267 Chapter 267 Ricky looked up at her and asked, ¡°You¡¯re early. You knew, didn¡¯t you?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene admitted. Ricky¡¯s eyes were unfocused as he stared into the N?velDrama.Org content. distance. ¡°The cops were asking if I saw her, and if I knew anything.¡± Irene quietly listened, but she knew that someone got Samantha out of prison¨Cshe never could have escaped by herself. Not sure how to assure him, she said, ¡°You need to take care of your health.¡± Ricky suddenly turned towards her. ¡°She just diedst night¡­ How did you know?¡± ¡°I¡ª¡± Irene was about to say that Isaac told him, but quickly changed, ¡°I overheard the cops telling you.¡± ¡°Ah,¡± Ricky murmured, but he knew that she was lying. Was she hiding something? Why? Because she knew that Isaac killed her mother? Beneath his nket, Ricky¡¯s hands balled into fists. ¡°My condolences,¡± Irene said quietly. Ricky forced a smile. ¡°I know. She¡¯s nevering back¡­ By the way, was Isaac with you before midnightst night?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No, he¡¯s busy with work.¡± ¡°I think I¡¯m sleepy,¡± Ricky suddenly said. Irene helped him pull up his nket. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll be right here with you.¡± Ricky said nothing, but quietly closed his eyes. Around eight in the morning, Sheryl arrived with Ricky¡¯s breakfast. Irene gestured for her to put the food aside, and pulled Sheryl outside without waking Ricky. ¡°Samantha¡¯s dead.¡± ¡°What?!¡± Sheryl was bewildered. ¡°Keep it down, Mom. You¡¯d wake Ricky¨Che must be feeling miserable right now.¡± Still, Sheryl was confused. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t she be in prison? How did it happen?¡± The situation was not exactly clear, so Irene didn¡¯t tell Sheryl much. ¡°I don¡¯t know. We¡¯ll see what comes of the investigation.¡± Sheryl nodded. ¡°Please take care of Ricky over the next few days, and be mindful about his mood,¡± Irene told Sheryl. ¡°I know,¡± Sheryl replied. ¡°I¡¯ll take good care of him.¡± Meanwhile, in the ward, Ricky did not actually fall asleep. He was pretending because he did not want to talk to Irene or see her. He had slipped out of the hospitalst night, wanting to see Samantha, only to find an ice¨Ccold corpse. He whipped out his phone to once again review the video of the ce where Smaantha died. When he asked Irene if Isaac was with her, she told him that Isaac was busy with work. And yet, he showed up there, where Samantha died. Click! Suddenly, the door opened. The Runaway Groom Chapter 268 The Runaway Groom Chapter 268 Chapter 268 Ricky hid his phone under his nket, and moved so quickly that neither Irene nor Sheryl noticed it. Sheryl walked up to the food she left on the bedside shelf. ¡°You must be hungry, right? Come have some breakfast.¡± As she spoke, she unboxed the food she had cooked meticulously. ¡°I¡¯m not hungry. Can I be alone for a while?¡± Ricky¡¯s expression and tone was t, but he didn¡¯t appear too miserable. Sheryl tried to talk to him, but Irene stopped her. ¡°Let¡¯s give him some space, Mom.¡± As such, Sheryl restrained herself. However, she told Ricky, ¡°I¡¯ll leave everything here. Eat it when you¡¯re hungry.¡± Ricky did not respond, however, leaving her sighing. ¡°Alright,¡± Irene said as she pulsed Sheryl along. ¡°Take your time, Ricky.¡± Closing the door behind her, she told Sheryl, ¡°Ricky needs time to ept reality. He won¡¯t be eating, but don¡¯t try to be pushy. Samantha¡¯s his mother, and being unable to take it is normal.¡± Sheryl understood. ¡°I¡¯m just worried about his health. He¡¯s still hurt, and he¡¯d harm his own health if he gets too depressed.¡± Irene stared at her mother lengthily. Sheryl was much too kind for her own good. Irene was surprised how Sheryl could bear no ill will towards Ricky, the son of the woman who ruined her marriage, and genuinely treat him like her own son. This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . For some reason, Irene felt that something changed in Ricky today. She couldn¡¯t tell what it was, but it was there! Naturally, she was worried that Ricky would get confrontational with Sheryl and hurt Sheryl. ¡°Mom, you should really know when to quit.¡± Sheryl understood what Irene was getting at, but did not take it to heart¨Cshe genuinely believed that Ricky and Samantha were different. For Irene¡¯s part, she did not persist. She soon left since she had other things to do. She went to meet Miss Lang, who treated Irene to breakfast at a good diner to thank Irene for her help the other day at the dancepetition. Over at Sky Group, Stan was already waiting when Isaac arrived, having found the location where the anonymous text was sent. ¡°It¡¯s actually from Ian¡¯s casino ship. Someone took it out to sea even though it had been confiscated¨C when my men and I found it, we searched it again and found theputer which sent the text. All clues and evidence point to the Jeffersons.¡± Isaac sat behind his desk, lounging against his chair. He listened to Stan¡¯s words, but said nothing. He was preupied with his thoughts¨Ceven if the Jeffersons did this, what was their point? Did the death of Samantha serve any purpose? Suddenly, Isaac narrowed his eyes¨CSamantah was survived by her son. He connected the dots right there and then. They had lured him there so he would show up at the ce where Samantha died¡­ So that Ricky would think that he murdered Samantha, and then use him against Ricky. 1 That meant Ricky would have evidence he killed Samantha, which was mostly likely a video since it was both direct and incriminating. Once they had a video of Isaac showing up where she died, all they had to do was send it to Ricky and tell him that Isaac killed his mother. Rising to his feet, Isaac said, ¡°We¡¯re going to the hospital. ¡°Why?¡± Stan could hardly keep up. Isaac didn¡¯t have time to exin. ¡°Let¡¯s just go. ¡°Okay.¡± Stan quickly followed. However, they had just taken the elevator and arrived downstairs when Isaac¡¯s phone rang. He hurriedly answered it. ¡°Hello, Isaac. It¡¯s your Aunt Quincy-¡± Isaac hung up before Quincy could finish. Within the minute, Stan¡¯s phone rang¨Cit was Quincy again. ¡°Tell Isaac that I have Kathy York. I¡¯ll have her deflowered if he still doesn¡¯t answer my call!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 269 The Runaway Groom Chapter 269 Chapter 269 Stan had to pass Quincy¡¯s message to Isaac, who stopped and turned to stare at him. ¡°What?!¡± This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . Stan repeated Quincy¡¯s message, and asked, ¡°What would she want with Kathy?¡± Isaac held out his hand. ¡°Give me the phone.¡± Stan did so, and he asked coldly, ¡°What do you want?¡± Quincy went straight to the point. ¡°I heard Kathy saved you from drowning that one time. Everything you owned now would¡¯ve been my son¡¯s if you died back then¨Cdid you think I¡¯d spare her after she ruined my schemes?¡± ¡°What do you want?¡± Isaac repeated. ¡°Cutting to the chase already? Good. Since Kathy saved you, she must be important to you, right? So let¡¯s make an exchange¨CKathy for my son. How about that?¡± After Quincy had met Kathy, she found out that Kathy was fond of Isaac, and they had agreed to work together. As she carried out her scheme, Quincy remembered that she could use this to force Isaac to make an exchange, and save her own son. ¡°Your son isn¡¯t with me,¡± Isaac said, while giving Stan a look¨Cthetter understood and quietly left to track down Quincy. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re smart, Isaac¨Cbut I¡¯m not stupid either. Don¡¯t interfere, and I can save my son without issue.¡± ¡°What if I said no?¡± Isaac growled. ¡°Then my people will take their turns having their way with Kathy York. Could you really bear to see that happen? She¡¯s your savior. Are you really not going to lift a finger?¡± She breathed ¡®your savior¡® with emphasis¨Cshe had always denied pushing Isaac into that pond since there was no evidence against her, and now, she was basically bragging about it. Isaac naturally knew it was her, but she remained untouched because of Henry. Now that the truce was broken, there was no reason for her to hide it. Isaacughed coldly. ¡°Wrong number, ma¡¯am. You should be talking to the police.¡± With that, he hung up. Stan had already got her position. ¡°Gather your men,¡± Isaac ordered. Stan promptly did so, and they all arrived half an hour Quincy seemed to be expecting their arrival, and didn¡¯t appear at all surprised. ¡°That was quicker than I thought,¡± she smiled. ¡°I actually expected you to take an hour to get here.¡± Isaac didn¡¯t bother with the preamble. ¡°She did save me, but if she dies, I¡¯ll just get her a good coffin.¡± With that, he turned and started to leave. ¡°How heartless! Not helping your savior? There¡¯s no reason for me to hold back, then.¡± She pped her hand, and the curtain behind her parted, revealing a ss wall, behind of which was the room where Kathy was kept¨Ctied to a table, her limbs spread wide apart while six men stood around her. It took Quincy considerable effort to set this up. Rearing her chin at Isaac, she snapped, ¡°Leave, and those men will each have a turn with her!¡± Stan himself almost snapped right there and then. Quincy Moore was certainly a monster¨Cshe was a woman too! How could she do this to another woman?! Was she really not afraid that she would suffer the same way?! Isaac, however, merely gave them a passing nce without so much as a change in expression. Remaining impassive, he said, ¡°Do whatever you want- we¡¯re leaving, Stan.¡± As he strode off, Quincy gestured for her men to get going. While Kathy and Quincy had agreed to work together, the men weren¡¯t ying around. ¡°No!!!¡± she screamed in fear as they tore off her clothes. The Runaway Groom Chapter 270 The Runaway Groom Chapter 270 Chapter 270 Isaac left without pausing for a moment, even as Kathy started to bawl behind him. Stan was puzzled. Isaac wasn¡¯t heartless, especially to those who helped him. ¡°Mr. Jefferson?¡± Stan called out in uncertainty. Isaac finally paused just as his fingers reached his car door handle. ¡°Tell Quincy I won¡¯t interfere if she rescued his son.¡± He was unmoved before, because he believed that the whole thing was an act¨Cthat Quincy and Kathy were working together. And they certainly were¨CQuincy had even promised Kathy that she would be untouched. Naturally, it was just deception on Quincy¡¯s part; she knew that if they wanted Isaac to believe them, a mere act would never be convincing. The instant Kathy agreed to y along, she was going to be deflowered. Stan quickly returned inside the house, but he was already toote¨CKathy was wailing tragically even as he passed Isaac¡¯s message. Quincy wasughing, as if she knew this would happen. Why walk away in the first ce?¡± As she entered the room, a crazed Kathy screamed at her, ¡°You ruined me!¡± All Quincy cared about was saving her son, but she took the time to walk up close to Kathy and whisper, ¡°Did you think Isaac would¡¯ve given in if I didn¡¯t do this?¡± Kathy stared daggers at her. ¡°Did you think I¡¯m an idiot? Do you think he would still like me after what you did?¡± N?velDrama.Org content. ¡°Tut, tut. Think smart, kiddo, you can use this to guilt- trip him!¡± Quincy said charmingly. ¡°You¡¯re his savior, so act vulnerable and miserable¨Calways remind him that you¡¯re like this because he didn¡¯t lift a finger to save you when he could. With that alone, you can hover around him Though it depends on you if you could steal his heart.¡± Kathy actually believed Quincy. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Of course! Why would I lie to you?¡± Quincy said, continuing to bewitch Kathy. ¡°Just do what I tell you, and he¡¯s all yours. I mean, have you ever heard of my husband having an affair?¡± Kathy shook her head vehemently. ¡°Then trust me, and I can teach you how to win a man¡¯s heart.¡± Quincy helped Kathy to her feet. ¡°Remember ¨C don¡¯t say anything to Isaac, and just keep crying.¡± Quincy naturally did not want Kathy to talk to Isaac, because the girl was so stupid she would definitely let slip something. One must still concede that Quincy was as smart as she was ruthless, or she couldn¡¯t have repeatedly made attempts on Isaac¡¯s life. Kathy nodded. ¡°Fine! But you better promise me that Isaac will be mine!¡± ¡°I promise,¡± Quincy assured her with absolute conviction, and Kathy believed her. ¡°Now, remember¨Cjust act miserable in front of them, as if you could die right this instant.¡± Quincy kept goading Kathy, to which she nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t forget that now,¡± Quincy added. ¡°Okay.¡± Kathy nodded again, and Quincy finally handed her over to Stan. Stan did not reach out to her¨Ceven if she was a victim, he still found her disagreeable. ¡°Come with me,¡± Stan said tly. As Kathy stepped out of the house, she was clutching her own arms, her clothes now no more than rags and haring her shoulders. With her disheveled hair, her puffy eyes and her cheeks stained with tears, she was a tragic sight! ¡°Mr. Jefferson,¡± Stan said as he led her to him. Isaac didn¡¯t even look at them. ¡°Have her sit in another car. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Meanwhile, Kathy took Quincy¡¯s advice to heart and kept sobbing as miserably as possible. Stan had someone give her a jacket to drape over her shoulders. After settling her in, he returned to Isaac and asked, ¡°What now, sir?¡± He believed that this was their chance¨CQuincy was right inside, and she deserved death just for making more than a handful of attempts on Isaac¡¯s life. The people they brought were perfect for the job too, since Quincy¡¯s people looked like they could hardly hold their own. The Runaway Groom Chapter 271 The Runaway Groom Chapter 271 Chapter 271 Isaac certainly wanted Quincy Moore, but he wasn¡¯t that impulsive. ¡°It¡¯d just dirty our hands,¡± he growled after weighing his options. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Stan quietly got in his car and left. They took Kathy to the hospital. She wasn¡¯t hurt, but she would still need a checkup and some comforting after what had happened. Since Isaac had always been cold to her, she was actually surprised that he was suddenly so kind and caring. As she sat on her bed, she didn¡¯t forget what Quincy told her¨Cact miserable and tragic to curry sympathy. ¡°I can¡¯t live like this¡­ Sob¡­¡± ¡°Such a shame,¡± Isaac said impassively. Kathy looked up. ¡°W¨CWhat is?¡± ¡°You have a pretty face, and you could¡¯ve married an upstanding man. I wonder who¡¯d want you now?¡± Then, deliberately giving her a look of disdain, ¡°Did you really think I¡¯d fall for you after what happened?¡± Crash! The dream Quincy envisioned for Kathy shattered right there and then. Isaac was right¨Cwhat man would like an immodest woman? Even if he felt sympathy, it wouldn¡¯t trante to affection! This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . ¡°Either way, I saved you and that makes us equals, so I hope you don¡¯t ever try to use that with me again,¡± Isaac said, and beckoned to Stan. ¡°Give her some money to live infort.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want that!¡± Kathy promptly leapt off her bed and grabbed Isaac¡¯s arm. ¡°I don¡¯t need money¡ªall I need is you!¡± Isaac glowered and firmly shook her off. ¡°You¡¯re dirty.¡± He certainly felt so much disdain towards her that he almost knocked her off her feet¨Che was a little too forceful, but there was no helping it since he was genuinely repulsed. Whether Kathy had been innocent or in league with Quincy, he couldn¡¯t feel sympathy towards her at all. Before this, he had always remembered ¡ªeven obsessed over¨Cthe girl who saved him from that pond, but here she was, standing right there¡­and he felt nothing. ¡°It only happened because of Quincy. Don¡¯t you want revenge?¡± Isaac asked. Kathy finally came to her senses then, but stayed quiet. Revenge? She was working with Quincy! The look in her eyes allowed Isaac to see through her with ease. So she really was putting up an act with Quincy, even at the cost of her modesty? Still, Isaac was impressed by how maniptive Quincy could be. ¡°You helped her, and she got her son back. But what do you get?¡± he pointed out. Kathy finally thought about it. Isaac was right¨Cshe got nothing except spite from Isaac, and how he knocked her away just now was proof enough. You only do that to someone you were earnestly disgusted with! ¡°What do I have?¡± she asked herself. And the answer was nothing. Before this, she had her looks and her chastity¡­ But she had nothing left after working with Quincy, let alone a chance to make Isaac hers! ¡°She¡¯s the reason you have nothing now. I can help if you want revenge, but if you don¡¯t, take the money, and move somece else no one knows you.¡± With that, Isaac strode out of the ward. Kathy hesitated for a moment before running up and catching the hem of his jacket, screaming, ¡°I want revenge!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 272 The Runaway Groom Chapter 272 Chapter 272 Isaac wheeled on Kathy with an icy re. She flinched, and quickly let go of him. His severe expression faded, and he said, ¡°I¡¯ll let you keep your job.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Kathy eximed in disbelief. ¡°If Quincy asked¡­¡± ¡°I got it,¡± Kathy said, her mind suddenly sharp. ¡°I¡¯ll tell her that you are warming up to me.¡± ¡°Good,¡± Isaac said. Kathy then asked, ¡°How will I get my revenge?¡± ¡°Win her trust. I¡¯ll slowly teach you how to get back at her.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Kathy asked stupidly. ¡°Of course.¡± Kathy was certainly overjoyed, so much that she was forgetting what had happened just hours ago. Nearby, Stan was raising a brow¨Cis Isaac going to use Kathy against Quincy? One must say that his method of turning Quincy¡¯s scheme against her was devastating! ¡°Take your time to get better,¡± Isaac said, and left. Stan followed Isaac and asked softly, ¡°Sir, she did save you before¡­ Using her like this is a little cruel, don¡¯t you think?¡± Isaac nced at him and snorted. ¡°Does she deserve anything? She¡¯s in league with Quincy.¡± ¡°That¡¯s just her being stupid,¡± Stan pointed out. ¡°She was simply manipted and exploited.¡± After all, she was being used like a tool by Quincy, and had her chastity taken in the process¨Cwhat was she if not stupid? ¡°Yeah, she ruined my image of her,¡± Isaac growled as he got in his car. Stan missed that. ¡°What was that, sir?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± Isaac said tly, clearly reluctant to speak further. And so, Stan stopped pressing him. From Stan¡¯s perspective, Isaac had be so sick of Kathy that he didn¡¯t feel protective towards her even if This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . she did save him before. But after working for Isaac for so long, Stan was used to Isaac¡¯s cold nature. After breakfast with Miss Lang, Irene headed to Spencer Holdings. Since Ricky had kept things going and resolved the previous crisis, everyone was more or less staying in line and not causing trouble. It suddenly urred to Irene that Ricky might stop thinking about Samantha if he was busy, and she quickly headed back to the Spencer Mansion, gathering all the materials she had and consulted Mr. Cooper, Lionel¡¯s When the draft was done, she took it with her to the hospital. ¡°You¡¯re back already, Irene? You¡¯re worried, aren¡¯t you? I¡¯m honestly fine,¡± Ricky said, though he was a little surprised to see her return. Irene nced at the food on the table, which had been untouched, and walked up to take them away. : ¡°It¡¯s cold now, so you shouldn¡¯t eat these,¡± she said as she cleaned them up. ¡°Is there anything you¡¯re craving? I can buy it for you.¡± Ricky thought about it and said, ¡°Apple pie.¡± ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll get it for you.¡± Irene promptly left, and traveled some distance to a restaurant with good viral reviews to get it. ¡°It¡¯s good,¡± Rickymented after finishing one slice. Irene was keeping an eye on him. Knowing that he was feigningposure, she said, ¡°You can cry if you want.¡± Ricky simply picked up another slice and ate in silence. Seeing no outburst from him, Irene took out the agreement, ¡°Take a look at this after you¡¯re finished. You can sign it if you find no issues.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 273 The Runaway Groom Chapter 273 Chapter 273 Ricky looked up abruptly, his eyes widened in surprise after he scanned through the agreement. ¡°What¡­?¡± ¡°Our father wanted you in charge of Spencer Holdings anyway,¡± Irene told him. ¡°He didn¡¯t give it to you right away because he¡¯s worried about yourck of experience. I went to check on things today, and it¡¯s obvious you¡¯ve proven yourself. Plus, I¡¯m too busy since I have to take care of Tommy. So, I¡¯m handing thepany to you right now. You know I was never interested anyway¨Cmy lifelong ambition is to be a doctor.¡± Irene simply wanted Ricky to know that she had no intent on keeping Spencer Holdings for herself, and that she would not meddle once he took over. Still, Ricky was actually suspicious instead of happy that she was giving him Spencer Holdings at this time, and wondered what her intention was. Was it because she knew Isaac had murdered his mother, and thepany was given to appease him? ¡°I¡¯m still young, Irene. Dad wanted you to manage it, so you do it,¡± he said, and continued eating his pie. Irene was aware he wanted Spencer Holdings dearly before¡­ Yet, he was turning her down? Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. ¡°Look, Ricky¨Cyour mom and I had our differences, but she¡¯s gone now, and every grievance went with her. We share the same father even though we had different mothers, meaning that we¡¯re connected by blood. We¡¯re family from now on. ¡°You¡¯ve always been family to me,¡± Ricky simply said. Irene pped him on the shoulder. ¡°That¡¯s why you have every reason to sign this.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Ricky picked up the paper, but Irene realized that she did not even bring a pen. She borrowed one from the nurse¡¯s station, and Ricky signed it. Suddenly, he looked at her solemnly and asked, ¡°Irene¡­ If your lover and I are both in danger, who would you save?¡± Irene was dumbfounded, and considerably embarrassed with Ricky¡¯s use of love. Still, she smiled. ¡°That¡¯s not going to happen. Also, you¡¯re both big men. If either of you were in danger, I won¡¯t be in a position to help. Ricky didn¡¯t give up, however. ¡°I¡¯m just saying¨Cin a situation where Isaac and I need your help, but you can only save one of us¡­ Who would you save?¡± It was certainly a dilemma for Irene. Isaac was her lover, and she wouldn¡¯t give up on her easily since they had a child together¨Cshe had every intention to spend the rest of her life loving him. On the other hand, she and Ricky shared a bloodline¨Che was basically family. She didn¡¯t want to give up on either of them. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you-¡± ¡°Sister, please.¡± Ricky deliberately used the word. Irene joked, ¡°Fine. I won¡¯t help either of you¨Cyou¡¯re both on your own.¡± Ricky was naturally disappointed. ¡°But I¡¯m your younger brother.¡± Irene smiled, pretending to miss the point. ¡°That you are. ¡°Well, I¡¯m keeping this,¡± Ricky said, ncing at the agreement. ¡°It¡¯s yours in the first ce.¡± Irene told him. They chatted for a while before Irene left the hospital. She had the feeling that Ricky was acting strangely, and kept thinking about him, leaving her distracted on her way home. Did Ricky just make her choose sides? She refuted the thought, since Ricky and Isaac weren¡¯t even acquainted¨Cthere shouldn¡¯t be grievances between them. So why would Ricky test her? Or was she just paranoid? Ding- Her cell phone jingled just then, and she picked it up, tapping on it distractedly. She saw a photo. The Runaway Groom Chapter 274 The Runaway Groom Chapter 274 Chapter 274 Isaac was in the photo, along with Kathy! They were standing outside a hospital ward, with Kathy holding the hem of Isaac¡¯s jacket¨Che had turned around, so his expression could not be seen. Irene did not flip out when she saw the photo, since the fact that she was sent it made one thing clear: someone wanted her to see it. Their objective was also obvious¨Cthey wanted a misunderstanding between her and Isaac. Thus, Irene refused to jump to conclusions and decided to listen to what Isaac had to say instead. Though she ckened the screen and turned to look outside the car, her mood soured by the minute. Suddenly, she seemed to forget entirely about Ricky. The photo was all she could think about. Although the rational part of her mind insisted that someone was deliberately attempting to drive a wedge between her and Isaac, the emotional side of her mind was still worried. After all, Kathy was beautiful¡­ And why was she tugging at Isaac¡¯s clothes? Nheless, she was soon back at Rose Garden. Tommy was wide awake, and Mrs. Watson was carrying him around the living room. Irene washed her hands before taking Tommy off Mrs. Watson, and the baby nestled against her corbone, as if knowing that she was his mother. Irene¡¯s heart almost melted right then. She leaned in to give him a peck on the cheek as warmth unfurled in her heart. Life was indeed a miracle. She yed with Tommy for some time. Though he eventually got hungry, he fell asleep halfway through his bottle of milk. Irene tucked him in his crib. In the evening, she headed to the kitchen. Mrs. Watson was already there. ¡°You don¡¯t have toe, ma¡¯am. Just leave this to me.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°I wanted to cook tonight. I think Isaac will Mrs. Watson was naturally smart enough to catch Irene¡¯s hint that she wanted to cook for Isaac, and so quickly said, ¡°I¡¯ll help.¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine on my own,¡± Irene insisted. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of theundry, then.¡± Mrs. Watson finally left the kitchen. Irene worked alone, and was done after ny minutes- just in time for dinner. Isaac had yet to return when thest dish waspleted, however, and Irene took out her phone. She wanted to call him and ask if he would bete, but just as she hesitated, she heard the front door opening. She walked over and found Isaac entering, wearing the same jacket Kathy had been tugging on in the picture. Nheless, Irene smiled. ¡°Hey.¡± Isaac looked up at her in turn. She had tied up her hair into a ponytail and wore a simple white T¨Cshirt matched with blue jeans, with an apron tied around her slender waist. It was a simple and modest getup, but perfect in his eyes. The air suddenly seemed rife with hormones. ¡°Hey,¡± he replied. ¡°Go wash your hands¨Cdinner¡¯s ready.¡± Irene said as she returned to the kitchen, and brought the food to the dining table, even setting down fork and knives as Isaac Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. entered. She sat down in front of him after he did, and popped a bottle of beer for him, pouring it for her. Isaac raised a brow. ¡°Did something good happen?¡± ¡°Not really,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Just wanted to drink with you.¡± She was perfect to Isaac in every way. Taking the bottle off her hands, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll do the honors.¡± Irene pursed her lips. ¡°My mom just told me that she thinks we should get married in October. I sort of agree since we¡¯ve really been busytely¨Cwe should wait until things settle down before we tie the knot. We¡¯re in no rush, anyway.¡± Isaac was quiet for a while, but eventually agreed. ¡°Yeah.¡± Now was certainly not the time to tie the knot. They were already living like a married couple, anyway. The Runaway Groom Chapter 275 The Runaway Groom Chapter 275 Chapter 275 Taking Irene¡¯s hand in his, Isaac said, ¡°Is there anything you want? I can give it to you.¡± Irene giggled, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll get my one pound of flesh.¡± Then, she steered the conversation away while acting casual, asking, ¡°Where have you been today?¡± ¡°The office, of course.¡± Isaac grinned, since she rarely asked him about his whereabouts. ¡°What, worried about me?¡± ¡°Of course. I was worried you¡¯d have an affair,¡± Irene replied. Isaac chuckled softly in amusement. Irene shot him a re. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡± ¡°I just liked it that you asked. That¡¯s all,¡± he replied. Irene was left speechless for a moment, and then suddenly remembered something else. ¡°I¡¯ve put together an agreement to hand Spencer Holdings over to Ricky. He¡¯s alone now that Samantha¡¯s gone, and I hope that thepany would encourage him to keep himself together¨Cmaybe he¡¯d forget his misery if he¡¯s busy.¡± She thought it necessary to Isaac. They had now decided to live together, and be involved in each others¡® lives¨Cthat meant honesty, and no secrets! Isaac put down his fork at the mention of Ricky¨Cthe issue with Kathy had dyed his visit to the hospital. Actually, I¡¯ve just realized something. The person who texted me and lured me to Samantha¡¯s body wanted me there, so that they could frame me as Samantha¡¯s killer. Did Ricky tell you anything when he visited you today?¡± Irene came to a realization right there and then. So Ricky was acting weird because he thought Isaac was involved with Samantha¡¯s death? Was that why he seemed to want Irene to pick a side between them? ¡°I¡¯ll talk to him, or he¡¯d really think that you did it,¡± Irene said, considerably cheerful now that things came to light about Ricky¡¯s weird behavior. Hold on¡­ 5/3 She had other serious business! Resting her chin on her palm and staring at Isaac, she slowly asked, ¡°Have you been around a woman today?¡± Isaac was sharp enough to get what she really meant, and looked up to return her gaze. ¡°What is it you¡¯re asking?¡± ¡°Just a question,¡± she smiled, while nonchntly fiddling with the cell phone she left on the table. She did not want to tell him about the photo¨Cinstead, she wanted him to take the initiative to be honest. Moreover, he would certainly understand after she was being so direct, wouldn¡¯t he? Naturally, Isaac quickly noticed that she was testing him. ¡°Yeah.¡± ¡°Who?¡± Irene asked in reflex. ¡°Ian Jefferson¡¯s mother.¡± Irene was caught off guard¨Cshe never expected that. From Isaac¡¯s perspective, however, he had to get involved with Kathy today because of Quincy. He was less than reluctant to mention the degeneracy of what happened. In fact, he would¡¯ve chased Kathy away if he did not want to exploit her. He was certainly cold enough to use his own savior like a tool! On the other hand, Irene was quite disappointed, but didn¡¯t keep questioning Isaac. As she cleaned up the table, afterwards, Tommy had woken up, and Isaac left to check on him, not noticing that she wasn¡¯t in a good mood. Soon, she decided to find the truth for herself. While Isaac took a shower, she told him that she needed to go out since Sheryl was calling her. Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. Isaac didn¡¯t seem to worry, and had no reason to stop her visiting her own mother. ¡°Tell Jimmy to drive you there.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. Thankfully, the photo was informative and easy to ce, and she had determined that Isaac and Kathy were in the hospital at the time. She arrived at the hospital and found the ward, where Kathy was still staying. Still, Irene didn¡¯t confront Kathy directly, and instead. went looking for Kathy¡¯s attending physician. Irene still had connections as a former doctor, and had no trouble finding the doctor in question¨Cfortunately, they turned out to be acquainted before, or Irene wouldn¡¯t be able to ess Kathy¡¯s case file. ¡°Here. But keep this a secret. You know the rules- patient confidentiality.¡± ¡°I know, don¡¯t worry,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I¡¯m just having a look.¡± She flipped through the pages, and scowled when she saw the list of tests Kathy had been subjected to. The Runaway Groom Chapter 276 The Runaway Groom Chapter 276 Chapter 276 Kathy¡¯s doctor asked, ¡°Who¡¯s she to you?¡± Irene actually did not hear the doctor, because what she read was too shocking! They actually checked her for that?! ¡°When was she admitted? Who brought her in?¡± she asked, when she eventually looked up. ¡°Just today,¡± the doctor replied. ¡°Kathy York, was it? She was brought in by this heartthrob -I heard he¡¯s the CEO of Sky Group and the most eligible bachelor in the city. Her clothes were in pieces, and there were clear signs of foul y.¡± Irene was disgusted, and hid her lips behind her hand as she retched. ¡°Are you alright?¡± the doctor asked in concern. ¡°I¡¯m fine, thanks for asking.¡± Irene waved it off, and returned the clipboard to the doctor. ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± the doctor said. ¡°Next dinner is my treat,¡± Irene added. ¡°Thanks,¡± the doctor smiled. Once again, Irene avoided meeting Kathy at her ward, because her mind was a mess at the moment. She didn¡¯t want to doubt Isaac, but she did ask, and he didn¡¯t tell her that he was the one who sent Kathy to this hospital, even getting her checked. Why would he bring her here if he wasn¡¯t involved? She did not want to be paranoid, but she had to give the mountain of evidence. The fact that a man and a woman going to the hospital together would already be giving cause for the mind to wonder. And given what Kathy was tested for¡­ Irene closed her eyes to restrain her churning emotions andpose herself. Still, even as she stood at the entrance of the hospital, she felt as if her legs were jelly and had lost all strength, unable to stand straight. Jimmy the chauffeur came to assist her to the car. ¡°Are you feeling ill, ma¡¯am?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Also, don¡¯t tell anyone. that I¡¯ve been here, understand?¡± ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Jimmy replied. Taking a deep breath to steel herself, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡± On the way home, she worked hard to rx her body and expression, and managed to calm down by the time they returned to Rose Garden. After Jimmy parked the car, she got off herself and said, ¡± Please don¡¯t forget what I¡¯ve said.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Jimmy said. Irene nodded in satisfaction and headed inside. The interior was quiet, and she headed to the master bedroom, which was duly lit. She could see Isaac¡¯s slender figure, arching his back slightly as he leaned against his pillow, seemingly asleep with Tommy in his arms. From her perspective, it looked as if their baby was embedded in him. Entering and sitting beside him, she watched Tommy quietly, though the dull glow meant she could not see his little face clearly. She reached out to stroke his cheeks¨Cit was smooth and tender to the touch, and the sensation on her fingertips. leaves her heart skipping a beat. Her child. The apple of her eye.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. ¡°What are you looking at?¡± A quiet voice spoke then, and she looked up to see that Isaac had opened his eyes, watching her. She did her best to keep her voice calm. ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡± Isaac held out a hand. ¡°Come.¡± Irene did not take it, and instead rose to her feet with a smile. ¡°I need a bath. You should sleep.¡± With that, she headed to the washroom. The Runaway Groom Chapter 277 The Runaway Groom Chapter 277 Chapter 277 Isaac stared at Irene from the back. She had smiled at him, but he felt no warmth from it. In fact, it felt icy. What had gotten into her? Suddenly not drowsy at all, he kept his eyes widened, his eyes glimmering in the dark room. On the other hand, Irene was sitting on the toilet although she turned on the shower sprinklers, and her clothes were still on. She had calmed herself on the way home, but for some reason, seeing Isaac left her flustered. She was afraid something really did happen between Kathy and Isaac. If there really was nothing between them, Isaac would¡¯ve never allowed Kathy to be that close to him. Irene took out her phone to see that photo again: the angle was perfect, and it looked just like Kathy was pouting at Isaac as she tugged on his jacket. While Isaac was not facing the camera, anyone would think that they looked just like lovers. Irene felt a pain on her chest, and suffocated a little. She patted herself on the chest. Steam soon swirled all over the bathroom, leaving the room stuffy and hot. As she started to sweat, she finally undressed and took a shower. She only emerged over an hourter, and Isaac sat up as she approached their bed. He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her to him. She struggled, but that only made Isaac tighten his hold on her. His warm, dank breath tickled her ears as he asked, you having problems? Do you need my help?¡± ¡°Why¡¯d you ask?¡± Irene asked. ¡°You seem upset,¡± he replied. ¡°Are Irene hung her head. She thought she managed to hide it, but Isaac found out anyway. ¡°I¡¯m not upset. Just tired,¡± she said quietly, doing her best to sound calm. ¡°Then I¡¯m hugging you to sleep.¡± Isaac said as hey down, while she took Tommy in her arms in turn. A pale ray of moonlight trickled in through the white curtains, sprinkling on top of their nket, the floor and the table. Irene was unable to sleep at all, but kept her eyes closed so that Isaac thought she did. She dozed off and woke up just before daybreak, and couldn¡¯t fall asleep again. As she stared at the window, she heard a buzz¨CIsaac¡¯s phone was vibrating on the table, waking him as well. He promptly took it and hung up, afraid of waking Irene and Tommy. He then quietly got off bed with it and headed to the Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. balcony, closing the sliding ss door behind himself and calling Stan back. ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°You told me to keep an eye on Kathy, right? Our men saw her leaving to meet Quincy,.¡± Stan said. Isaac narrowed his eyes. ¡°What were they discussing?¡± ¡°They couldn¡¯t get too close. You know how wary Quincy is, and they didn¡¯t want to be noticed¡­¡± ¡°Got it. Save the details forter.¡± He hung up and returned inside, and just as he put down. his phone, Irene asked, ¡°Who was that?¡± It wasn¡¯t as if she was being sensitive¨Cshe couldn¡¯t help being suspicious after she found out what happened to Kathy yesterday. It felt like a splinter was stuck in her mind, hurting her deeply. Moreover, Isaac even hung up that call beside her, and only called the other person back when she was out of earshot. It simply made her even more ufortable. ¡°It¡¯s Stan. Something came up.¡± Isaac sat beside her and helped straighten her disheveled hair. ¡°It¡¯s still early- you can sleep in. I need to see to something.¡± Irene bit her lip. ¡°Is it really that urgent? The sun isn¡¯t even up.¡± Isaac chuckled softly, his morning voice hoarse yet exceeding alluring. ¡°What, don¡¯t want me to leave?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 278 The Runaway Groom Chapter 278 Chapter 278 ¡°I¡¯m not¡­¡± Irene denied it at first, but soon became silent for a while. Eventually, she admitted, ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t want you to go.¡± Isaac loved that she was being clingy. ¡°Okay,¡± he replied quickly without hesitation. That actually left Irene doubtful. Was it possible that she misunderstood him? After all, he really loved Tommy. ¡°What¡¯s in your mind?¡± Isaac reached out to gather her in her arms while she was left conflicted. Irene evaded him by instinct even though she didn¡¯t mean to her suspicion of him getting it on with Kathy made her repulsed by the notion of being intimate with him. As Isaac¡¯s hands were left hanging mid¨Cair, she quickly tried to divert his attention. ¡°Hmm¡­ Where¡¯s Tommy?¡± Isaac nced at the bed, where their son was sleeping soundly. It looked like Tommy wasn¡¯t about to wake up anytime soon. He had actually noticed that Irene was being weird, but did not point it out. Even so, he calmly lowered his hands. and pinched her button nose. ¡°I won¡¯t get upset with you. 11 Irene pretended to wince and shot him a re. ¡°You¡¯re such a bully.¡± Isaac checked the time. ¡°Go back to bed. I¡¯m getting a drink from the living room.¡± Irene nodded, and he stared at her for a while before leaving the bedroom. He sat on the couch, picked up the phone on the table and dialed a number, which was soon answered. ¡°Mr. Jefferson?¡± A sleepy voice asked from the other end. ¡°Come over right now,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Isaac hung up and leaned into the couch, appearing tired as he rubbed the spot between his brows. Soon, Jimmy the chauffeur entered the front door. ¡°Mr. Jefferson.¡± Isaac slowly looked up but otherwise did not move. Where did she gost night?¡± 11 Jimmy lowered his head awkwardly. ¡°She told me not to say¡­¡± ¡°What?¡± Isaac growled, raising a brow in clear dissatisfaction. Jimmy gave in right away¨Cit was not as if he wasn¡¯t trustworthy, but Isaac was the one paying him, and he had to answer as he was Isaac¡¯s employee. ¡°A¨CA hospital. ¡°Which one?¡± Isaac asked, though he had an idea. ¡°Evenal.¡± Jimmy replied. Isaac closed his eyes. ¡°I see. You can go now.¡® Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Jimmy said, and left. Isaac sighed lengthily, and slowly got up, returning to the bedroom. He opened the door to find Irene lying on her side, staring at Tommy. Isaac walked in and scoop up the baby in his arms. ¡°What are you doing?¡± Irene eximed softly in surprise. ¡°You¡¯re going to wake him.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll keep it down,¡± Isaac said, and left. Irene got off bed, following him without caring how she looked just then. ¡°Where are you taking him?¡± ¡°To Mrs. Watson.¡± Irene caught her arm. ¡°It¡¯s almost morning, anyway. He¡¯ll wake up soon.¡± ¡°No, I¡¯m leaving him with Mrs. Watson,¡± he insisted with a serious look. ¡°We need to talk.¡± Irene released Tommy, quietly approving Isaac¡¯s gesture. She stood by the door as Isaac left Tommy to Mrs. Watson¡¯s care. Isaac soon returned to Irene. ¡°What are we going to talk about?¡± she asked. Isaac did not answer, however, and instead grabbed her slender form, pulled her back into their room, and shut the door with a bang. Irene shoved at him. ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Once more, Isaac didn¡¯t answer, and simply belted her with kisses. However, Irene was feeling too ufortable to get intimate with him. The Runaway Groom Chapter 279 The Runaway Groom Chapter 279 Chapter 279 Irene struggled, not eager to go with it ¡®Mmph, Stop it. Isaac Isaac didn¡¯t let her go, however, and instead kissed her even more fiercely Unable to resist, trene tumed into jelly in his artis After a long while, she finally gave up on reisting, he let go Irene slowly looked up, crystalline tears lingering on her thick, curled eyshes. ¡°Why are you doing this?* Her voice was hoarse and tearful Even though she didn¡¯t like to cry, she felt utterly miserable at the morment. Isaac held her gaze. ¡°Does it hurt? Your heart, I mean. ¡°What?¡± *Couldn¡¯t you ask me if you have a question? Did you think I was cheating on you?¡± Irene was stunned, her gaze watery just then. ¡°H-How¡¯d you know?¡± Isaac did not answer, and instead asked, ¡°Did you talk to Kathy?¡± Irene shook her head. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Really? Isaac was doubtful. ¡°You know I¡¯m a doctor, and I have doctor friends,¡± she exined. ¡°I¡¯ve only checked her medical records.¡± ¡°And you thought it was me?¡± Irene simply slipped out of his arms, picked up her phone from her table and showed him the photo. ¡°See? I went there because of that. I had no trouble finding her, but I never spoke to her.¡± Isaac did not take her phone, but a nce was enough. ¡°Is this why you suspected me?¡± he asked, despite knowing the answer. Irene sat on the bed. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you, if you were in my ce?* ¡°Get dressed,¡± he growled. Irene did not move. ¡°Why? You didn¡¯t exin anything.¡± ¡°Easier to show you,¡± he replied, and when she did not move, he added sternly, ¡°Now.¡± Irene did as she was told, after which Isaac took her to his office at Sky Group. headquarters. Stan was already waiting, and appeared stunned to see Isaac arrive with Irene. ¡°Just tell us what happened,¡± Isaac said, putting a hand over Irene¡¯s shoulder as they settled on the couch. Stan nced at Irene, and soon realized why Isaac brought her. Hence, he said carefully,¡± Kathy was meeting with Quincy Moore. We don¡¯t know what they talked about, but I visited Kathy and managed to get everything out of her. She¡¯s not siding with Quincy, and I don¡¯t think she¡¯s lying.¡± With that, he took out his phone and yed the recording of their conversation. Stan was feigning concern as he visited Kathy, saying, ¡°Hey, just checking in on you. I can. help you get discharged if you feel better. Mr. Jefferson also arranged a better position for you.¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. Kathy appeared emotional and grateful, so Stan pressed his advantage, ¡°Oh, right. The nurse told me that you left?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Kathy replied. ¡°Quincy asked to meet me.¡± ¡°What did she tell you?¡± Stan asked with a smile. ¡°The first thing she asked was whether Isaac knew we¡¯re meeting, and she became much. rxed. She then told me that she took a photo of me and Isaac and sent it to Irene to drive them apart, and that she¡¯d help me win over Isaac if I obeyed her. But, y¡¯know, I¡¯m not stupid-she took away my chastity. I¡¯m not going to believe her ever again!¡± Stan chimed in, ¡°Of course. All men care about theirdies¡¯ modesty.¡± He deliberately twisted the dagger so that Kathy was reminded that Isaac would never fall for her, especially now that she was impure. Naturally, whatever he said would make Kathy hate Quincy all the more. Stan saw the fury and hate towards Quincy in Kathy¡¯s eyes. Back at the present, Irene came to a stunning realization. Quincy had sent her that photo exactly to drive a wedge between her and Isaac. Still, Irene had no idea how Kathy became involved with Quincy, so she asked, ¡°What¡¯s the story here?¡± Isaac gave her hand a light squeeze. ¡°Keep listening.¡± As such, Irene had to stay patient and listened as Kathy spoke once more in the recording. Chapter ko The Runaway Groom Chapter 280 The Runaway Groom Chapter 280 Chapter 280 Kathy asked, ¡°Is Isaac not going to fall for me now?¡± ¡®He wouldn¡¯t even if you weren¡¯t defiled,¡¯ Stan thought to himself. ¡®Why are you still not giving up?¡± He couldn¡¯t say it, however, and instead said, ¡°Yeah. You have no chance now after what Quincy did to you.¡± Even if Stan didn¡¯t continue directing Kathy¡¯s spite to Quincy Moore, Kathy absolutely loathed the woman now. ¡°I hate her.¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. With that, Stan stopped ying the recording. ¡°My observation is that she really hates. Quincy now. That spite can¡¯t be feigned.¡± Irene promptly asked them, ¡°So? Can you now tell me what happened?¡± Stan nced at Isaac Jefferson then, and seeing his approval, began, ¡°Well, it started with¡­ When he was finished, Stan summed up, ¡°And Kathy¡¯s now still at the hospital.¡± Irene patted her chest as he finished. Thank goodness Isaac wasn¡¯t involved! So Kathy believed in Quincy and was exploited. The thought that Quincy was willing to ruin. her chastity on a whim left Irene wary. She must be cautious towards that woman! Since there was no way Quincy would make peace with Isaac, now that Irene is Isaac¡¯s lover, Irene knew she would be dragged into it as well! On the other hand, Stan saw that she was relieved, which confirmed his hunch. ¡°Did you think that Mr. Jefferson did that to Kathy?¡± he asked jokingly. Irene was quiet, but she certainly did think so. Her silence was nothing less than a quiet admission, and Stan suddenly appeared to be an eager bystander. So that was why Isaac brought her here. To clear the air? Oh, to think that the big man had to do this like a mere mortal¡­ Stan wanted tough, but Isaac shot him a cold re. Chapter 280 Cowing immediately, Stan excused himself by saying, ¡°I still have work to do, so¡­¡± ¡°Wait,¡± Isaac stopped him. ¡°Pass the document on the table to Kathy, and tell her to deliver it to Quincy. Do you know what to tell her?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, sir. I know what to do.¡± Stan assured him. ¡°Good. Now, go.¡± After Stan left the office with the document, Irene asked, ¡°What¡¯s the document?¡± Isaac squeezed her hand again. ¡°Bait that Quincy would definitely fall for.¡± Irene nced at him sideways. His facial features had always been pronounced, and his confident look only made him even more mesmerizing. She realized she was getting even crazier about him now. There was a diner that started business early opposite Sky Group headquarters. The food was exquisite, and since it was a business district, one would often see people meeting up there, having breakfast while discussing work. ¡°I want to start work again,¡± Irene suddenly blurted out. She had handed over management of Spencer Holdings to Ricky, and now that she had nothing to do, she could return her focus to her dream job and fulfill her ambition. ¡°I can be your sugar daddy.¡± Isaac said. ¡°No,¡± Irene rejected him swiftly-there was no way she would stay at home for the rest of her life. She had her own dream, and an ideal to strive for. Isaac held her gaze for two seconds. He soon decided that keeping her at home might be a dishonor to her, especially since she had a speciality. ¡°Alright, which hospital do you want to work at? I¡¯ll help-¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene said, cutting him short. ¡°No string pulling. I¡¯ll depend solely on my own abilities, and tread as far as I can.¡± Unlike other professions, getting higher qualifications as a doctor without actual merit would only hurt others. The Runaway Groom Chapter 281 The Runaway Groom Chapter 281 Chapter 281 Irene wanted to build her career steadily, and Isaac chuckled. ¡°Alright, if that¡¯s what you want¡­ but,¡± he said, his tone changing sharply, ¡°Come to me directly if you feel doubtful again. Don¡¯t bottle it in and stress yourself out.¡± ¡°Yeah, I should¡¯ve trusted you,¡± Irene murmured softly-this was certainly her own shoring, because she should not have doubted him over nothing! If Isaac never noticed and she kept acting suspicious, their rtionship definitely would have been affected-since they had just started, they did not hold absolute faith in each other yet. Picking up a piece of pie and holding it inches from her lips, he said, ¡°Try this. It¡¯s good.¡± Irene felt a sliver of embarrassment, but ate it eventually. The crunchy crust and the sweetness of the filling unfurled in her mouth, and she held a hand over her mouth as she said, ¡°It¡¯s good.¡± She then picked up another slice, and Isaac watched as she stuffed her cheeks like a hamster. Unable to resist smiling in amusement, he picked up a napkin and wiped some crumbs off the corner of her lips. ¡°Slow down. No one is taking it from you.¡± Irene finished the slice in a few chomps before picking up another slice which she held near his lips. ¡°I¡¯m not that greedy.¡± Isaac grinned, happy that she was feeding him, and not because of the food. After they ate, Irene said, ¡°I¡¯m heading to the hospital. I¡¯m worried Ricky would think that you really killed Samantha and tried to hurt you, and I don¡¯t want him to do anything stupid either. I¡¯m hoping that he can really be family now.¡± She was certainly worried that Ricky would run astray. ¡°Okay,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°I¡¯ll have Jimmy drive you,¡± Sheryl had already helped Ricky get discharged from the hospital by the time Irene arrived, and they were packing his belongings in his ward before heading home. Seeing that, Irene asked, ¡°You¡¯re leaving this early? Your arm still isn¡¯t better yet.¡± ¡°The doctor told me that I can, and all I do is lie around here.¡± Ricky smiled. ¡°Getting to stand and walk is so much better, and I¡¯m still keeping the tourniquet on anyway. You¡¯re a doctor too, aren¡¯t you? I can count on you if anythinges up at home, right?¡± He looked like he was in a much better mood, as if nothing had happened before. ¡°Broken bones aren¡¯t my specialty,¡± Irene said, staring at him for a while before adding, ¡± Still, if the doctor says that you can leave, you must be fine.¡± This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . In fact, she thought that it was good that Ricky was getting discharged. Being left alone in a room would make his mind wander. Since Jimmy was with Irene, they conveniently had a way to return to Spencer Mansion. Sheryl told Irene to call Isaac over for lunch, but Irene quickly refused, since he must be busy at the moment. ¡°Next time, Mom.¡± Sheryl knew that Isaac would not be free either, though for some reason, she admired everything about him ever since she epted him. Just like a fawning mother-inw, she had an increased appreciation for him. Meanwhile, Irene was watching as she retired to her room, and her expression turned solemn as she turned to Ricky. ¡°Listen, Ricky. Isaac has no grievance against you, and he has even less reason to hurt your mother. Please don¡¯t listen to the people who are trying to deceive you.¡± ¡°What are you talking about, sis? What does it have to do with Isaac?¡± Ricky quickly cut her short. ¡°I¡¯m not suspecting anything.¡± Irene was skeptical. ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Yeah. Oh, that reminds me,¡± Ricky said, and headed to the study before returning with an invitation. ¡°Here¡¯s an invitation to a medical forum. I thought you¡¯d be interested.¡± Irene took it, her eyes twinkling. ¡°Where did you get it?¡± Ricky averted his eyes. ¡°I overheard someone talking about it at the hospital, so I pulled some strings.¡± Irene pped him on the shoulder. ¡°Oh, you shouldn¡¯t have¡­ Hold on!¡± she suddenly cried out. The Runaway Groom Chapter 282 The Runaway Groom Chapter 282 Chapter 282 Ricky asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Irene had already sprung to her feet. ¡°Look at the date-it¡¯s today, and it starts at nine¡­ but it¡¯s 8:50 now! I won¡¯t make it if I don¡¯t go now. I should attend it too, since it must¡¯ve been. hard to get this. I can¡¯t miss it.¡± ¡°Thanks, Ricky,¡± Irene said, not forgetting to thank him as well. ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Ricky replied, watching her. ¡°You¡¯re my sister, after all.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll treat you to a nice dinner next time,¡± she said as she reached the doorway. ¡°Bye!¡± Hurrying to Jimmy, she said, ¡°Quick, take me to the Central Hospital.¡± Although Jimmy started the car right away, he asked in curiosity, ¡°Again?¡± ¡°Something came up,¡± Irene said patiently. ¡°Hurry, or I¡¯ll bete.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Jimmy replied. They arrived at 9:25, but when Irene reached the conference hall of the hospital, she found it empty. Puzzled, she nced at the address on the invitation, but she was at the right ce¡­. So why was it empty? Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. She whipped out her phone to call Ricky, but that was when she picked up the faint scent of a drug. However, she was so ustomed to smelling it that she could not identify what it was¡­ When she realized what it was, her body was already losing strength. Did she just fall for a trap? ¡°Jim-¡± She was going to call for Jimmy, when someone sped something over her mouth. Turning around, she saw that it was Ricky, and her eyes widened in shock. ¡°What are you. doing, Ricky?!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to hurt you, sis-you¡¯re my only family left after my mom died¡­¡± ¡°But I cannot forgive Isaac.¡± His naive demeanor from before waspletely gone-now, there wasposure and maturity that Irene had never seen before. ¡°I told you, he has no reason- ¡°He does,¡± Ricky said, cutting her short. ¡°He knows that my mom used to make life hard for you and your mom, so he¡¯s killed my mom for revenge.¡± Irene froze, but soon noticed a contradiction. ¡°He doesn¡¯t know about Samantha, Who told you about that anyway?¡± ¡°It¡¯s none of your business. Just rx-I won¡¯t hurt you.¡± ¡°Ricky-¡± Irene tried to reason, only to feel a dull hit on the back of her head. She quickly cked out and fell unconscious, and Ricky promptly got his people to take her to his car on a stretcher. Once he closed the door behind Irene, he turned to look at the woman standing nearby under a tree, keeping her back to him. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you want, but I won¡¯t hurt Irene. She¡¯s my only family now.¡± The woman only turned around after Ricky drove off-it was Chad Ross¡¯s recently wed wife, and she was glowering! She had tried to hurt Irene along with Isaac, and she was now smart enough to deceive others for her own ends instead of doing things herself. And this time, Ricky was the one she managed to deceive. She thought that Ricky hated Irene like Samantha did, but it turned out that he actually cared. She murdered Samantha and framed Isaac with the crime. That way, she would have pushed Ricky over the brink, but although he was supposed to destroy Isaac along with Irene, Ricky refused to hurt Irene-it makes her efforts as puppeteer only half-sessful. But in spite of her dissatisfaction, she did seed to some extent. Moreover, she had nned this for a long time. The Runaway Groom Chapter 283 The Runaway Groom Chapter 283 Chapter 283 Chad¡¯s wife had executed her n meticulously-she even managed to misdirect Stan, who had traced the message she sent to Isaac back ton¡¯s casino ship. Now that Isaac had turned against his family and were on the brink of conflict, she could naturally ce the me on the other Jeffersons. Moreover, everyone believed that she was dead. No one would even suspect her. Jimmy the chauffeur started looking around the hospital as the skies darkened, but Irene was nowhere to be found. Hence, he called Isaac, who had just returned home and was standing just outside the door, to inform him of that. ¡°What?!¡± ¡°Mrs. Jefferson is missing,¡± Jimmy repeated, sweat forming over forehead just then-he was worried that Isaac would be furious if harm came to Irene. ¡°How long has she been gone?¡± Isaac demanded. ¡°It¡¯s probably been seven hours now. I parked the car after she left, and I never saw her since. I thought she would be busy, so I waited, but she never came out, and she wasn¡¯t anywhere when I looked¡­¡± Isaac snapped, ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you to keep an eye on her?¡± Jimmy might be a chauffeur, but his main profession was as a bodyguard¡­ But he had lost her! Knowing that he had been careless, Jimmy apologized. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± That was not what Isaac wanted to hear just then. ¡°Where did you lose her?¡± ¡°Central Hospital, over at the Second Militarized Zone.¡± Isaac promptly hung up and turned around, calling Stan even as he strode back to his car. However, someone called his phone before he could call Stan, and it was from Irene¡¯s number. He quickly answered it. ¡°Irene¡­?¡± ¡°It¡¯s Ricky,¡± Ricky said icily over the phone. ¡°Come to the unfinished building at Big Short. You¡¯d better come alone if you want to save her, or I can¡¯t promise that you¡¯d actually see her again.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you dare hurt her,¡± Isaac said calmly and steadily. There was ack of emotion in his voice, and Ricky could not even see his face, but he felt an intangible yet suffocating pressure nheless! Clearly inexperienced and unable to match Isaac¡¯s assertiveness, Ricky had to feign Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Isaac promptly got in his car and drove to the address Ricky gave. It was a grim and barren ce, its surroundings littered with cracked boulders, moss-covered bricks, and rusted steel frames. He alighted and strode into the building, but found no one. That was when his phone rang again with another text from Irene¡¯s phone: [Sorry, wrong address. It¡¯s the East Docks.] Ricky had clearly sent it, and he was obviously messing with Isaac. He scowled, but decided that he could not do anything to him, since he had Irene. Returning to his car, he drove to the East Docks, but his phone jingled again with another text from Ricky when he was about to get down. [Oh, I¡¯m so sorry. I made another oopsie.] Isaac simply kept staring at the screen, knowing that Ricky would keep texting him. [Go back to the first location.] Restraining his temper, Isaac started his car again and returned to the unfinished building. As he stopped, he did not get off immediately-who knows if Ricky was ¡®childish¡¯ enough to make another ¡®oopsie¡¯? He alighted when Ricky did not, and headed upstairs via the bare concrete stairs. This time, he found Irene! The Runaway Groom Chapter 284 The Runaway Groom Chapter 284 Chapter 284 Irene was still unconscious. Ricky had tied her to a pir, and there was a bomb tethered to her waist. Isaac glowered when he saw that. Ricky then showed up with a detonator in one hand, while holding his phone out at Isaac with the other. ¡°Tell me, how did you murder my mother?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± Isaac replied. ¡°I really doubt that,¡± Rickyughed coolly. ¡°Why were you there where she died if you didn¡¯t? Am I that young and gullible to you?¡± ¡°You¡¯re young?¡± Isaac cast him a sideways nce. ¡°Though you¡¯re simply immature.¡± Ricky growled in annoyance. ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter. The point is right now, what I say goes.¡¯ Isaac did not appear upset. ¡°Of course, though I really want to ask: is my being there proof enough that I did it?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Ricky replied. Isaac was on the verge of flipping out at Ricky¡¯s sense of logic. ¡°I was sent a text. That¡¯s why I was there-check my phone if you don¡¯t believe it.¡± Isaac held it out to Ricky, but Ricky could not reach for it since one of his arms had yet to heal, while both hands were already busy with the detonator and his own phone. ¡°You must be tricking me.¡± That was when Irene suddenly woke up, having realized that he never believed her. ¡®Ricky! You have to believe me-Isaac and I didn¡¯t do anything to Samantha. We would¡¯ve killed her in prison if we wanted to, instead of getting her out of prison first! Wouldn¡¯t that justplicate matters?¡± Irene tried to reason with Ricky, convinced that someone was using him in his grieving state, since it was his mother they were talking about! However, while Ricky could not refute Irene¡¯s words, he shook his head. ¡°It has to be Isaac.¡± Irene was left fuming. How could he be so stubborn? Still, she kept trying to persuade him. ¡°It¡¯s obvious someone is using you against Isaac, Ricky! Don¡¯t be stupid!¡± Ricky was actually a little shaken then, since he could not refute what both Irene and Isaac said. ¡°Ricky, I promise we¡¯ll find out who killed Samantha, and bring them to justice,¡± Irene promised. That left Ricky in confusion. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. He had been in so much grief when he found out that Samantha was dead. When he received that video showing Isaac at the location where she died, along with the text iming that he had reason to do it, his earlier suspicion and anger toward Isaac for beating him up all erupted at once, and he easily bought the lie. Now that he calmed down and thought about it, it appeared that someone had been framing it so that he would think that way, and then used him like a tool. Like Irene had said, they could have hurt his mother in prison if they wanted to, instead of extracting her out of prison first. Doing it otherwise was illogical, though there was only one reason for doing that- the culprit wanted to utilize his mother¡¯s control over him. Still, Ricky did not give in right away despiteing to a realization. In fact, he was even more staunch now, and growled viciously, ¡°I don¡¯t believe you. Don¡¯t try to brainwash me-I won¡¯t fall for it. I know very well that you¡¯re different from my mom, Irene, but you¡¯re not so saintly that you wouldn¡¯t hold a grudge after all my mother did to you. That¡¯s why I¡¯m sure you had a hand in my mother¡¯s death, and I¡¯ll have my revenge!¡± As he lifted his finger over his detonator, looking like he would press it soon, Irene¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief-not because Ricky would blow her up, but instead, because he never trusted her. ¡°Ricky-¡± ¡°Stop! I don¡¯t want to hear any of that!¡± Ricky snapped, cutting her short while turning toward Isaac. ¡°You love her, don¡¯t you?¡± Irene turned toward Isaac right then, as if Ricky¡¯s words were odd for the situation¡­ or because she had never expected him to say that. Isaac was staring at her. The Runaway Groom Chapter 285 The Runaway Groom Chapter 285 Chapter 285 Even as Irene and Isaac¡¯s eyes met, Ricky asked, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you answering? Hah! You don¡¯t love her, do you? After all, a man like you can have any woman you want-why would you even get worked up over one woman? If anything, you¡¯re keeping my sister¡­ No, you¡¯re keeping Irene just because she gave you a child!¡± Irene never considered that, and when Ricky suddenly said it, it somehow made sense. Was Isaac being nice because he loved her, or because of Tommy? Ricky¡¯s words certainly affected her, and if Ricky knew that, someone as smart as Isaac should know that as well. That was when Isaac started walking toward her. ¡°Don¡¯te!¡± Irene eximed ¡°The bomb!¡± Isaac did not seem to hear her, however, and kept walking. Irene blinked even as she watched him, blinking back tears as she smiled faintly and sobbed, ¡°I¡¯m sure you love me. ¡°You¡¯re really stupid, aren¡¯t you? He hasn¡¯t said a thing and you believe him already?¡± Ricky eximed with a tone that said ¡®I¡¯m-doing-this-for-you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s only proof that he loves you if he dares to die with you!¡± Irene turned toward Ricky. ¡°Wait, what are you doing?¡± ¡°Testing him, of course.¡± Ricky said, looking at Isaac. ¡°If I press this button and he still doesn¡¯t move, I¡¯ll believe that he isn¡¯t responsible for my mother¡¯s death, and that he truly loves you.¡± With that, he pressed the button. The timer on Irene started to count down in turn. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. 60, 59, 58, 57¡­ They did not even have a minute! Irene screamed at Isaac, ¡°Run! You have to run!¡± She did not need Isaac to prove his love like this-if they both died, Tommy would be orphaned. And would Tommy survive, with all the enemies Isaac had? The answer was almost certainly no, but if Isaac survived, he would be able to protect Tommy. Nheless, Isaac merely smiled at her with a mysterious expression, leaving her speechless. Was he crazy,ughing at a moment like this?! ¡°Think about Tommy oof-¡± Isaac had leaned in to kiss her before she finished, while the timer kept ticking away. 45,44, 43¡­ ¡°I know you¡¯d be afraid if you were alone. So I¡¯m staying with you-so you won¡¯t be afraid,¡± Isaac whispered beside her ear then.. Irene¡¯s heart skipped a beat, her eyes widening even as her lips trembled. ¡°You¡¯ll die¡­¡± she rasped. Isaac simply embraced her in turn. ¡°I¡¯m so happy to have met you, Irene.¡± Irene¡¯s throat turned parched and scratchy right then. She was afraid, but with him staying with her, having someone face death with her did not make it that horrifying. At that very moment, she believed that Isaac loved her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she said, resting her head against his chest. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have doubted you.¡± Isaac put his wide palm over her cheek, stroking it gently. His hand was firm and warm, and calmed Irene¡¯s heart as if magically. The bomb continued to tick away. 10, 9, 8¡­ 3, 2, 1. Irene closed her eyes then, feeling no conflict or fear-because Isaac was with her. And yet, seconds passed¡­ but nothing happened. What?! Next Chapter Coming Soon... The Runaway Groom Chapter 286 The Runaway Groom Chapter 286 Chapter 286 Irene opened her eyes to find the timer on the bomb staying at zero without detonating. Just as she was puzzled, Ricky spoke. ¡°Sorry, sis. I was just using you to force Isaac into admitting that he killed my mom, and give that evidence to the police to arrest him. But I had no intention of hurting you-that¡¯s why it won¡¯t blow up.¡± Irene could hardly believe it. ¡°Ricky¡­¡± ¡°I ept what you told me, and I understand now-if Isaac wanted Mom dead, he didn¡¯t have to get her out of prison to do it. It¡¯s clearly someone who was using me,¡± he said, as he walked up to untie her. ¡°Are you angry at me?¡± ¡°No.¡± Irene shook her head. After all, her heart was filled with unexpected warmth-Ricky was in grief after Samantha¡¯s death, and it was understandable that he resorted to extreme actions. Even so, he used a dud bomb, making it clear that he did consider her family and did not want to hurt her. Hugging him, she said, ¡°Even though our father left us, you¡¯re my brother, Ricky. We¡¯ll definitely find the one who killed your mother and put her to justice.¡± Ricky nodded. ¡°Thank you¡­ But don¡¯t you hate me?¡± Irene did not, since any grievance she held against Samantha died with thetter. There was no way she would obsess over the past, and letting go of it was being kind to herself as well. Moreover, Ricky and her were family, and she had no cause to hurt the living over the departed. ¡°Why would I? You¡¯re in grief, and that¡¯s how they exploited you.¡± Irene smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s do our best together from now on. We¡¯ll seek justice for your mother.¡± Ricky nodded. ¡°By the way, do you know who texted you? Have you met them?¡± Irene asked just then, intent on finding. out who put the whole n together. If Ricky really believed that Isaac killed Samantha and did not use a dud bomb, the consequences would be unimaginable. ¡°I have. She-¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t the ce to talk. We should go,¡± Isaac suddenly said. Irene then realized that she was being impatient, and that this was not the ce to talk. ¡°Yeah, we should.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Ricky agreed. However, as they passed the patch of grass near the entrance, Isaac heard a faint beeping sound, and turned to find a bomb hidden in the grass. 3, 2, 1¡­ ¡°Bomb!¡± Isaac cried and promptly threw his arms around Irene, pushing her down to the ground! The bomb detonated with a resounding boom the instant they fell, and the resulting me shone like a second sun. Ricky reacted too slowly, and was knocked unconscious by the resulting shockwave. Irene regained consciousness first, and when she tried to move, she realized that Isaac was on top of her -he was shielding her with his body. ¡°Isaac¡­¡± Irene called out as she pulled herself out from underneath him. He was unconscious, and she could see that the explosion had sent bricks and other shrapnel flying, with even a rock ¡¯embedded¡¯ on his back. She quickly checked his breathing and pulse, and went to check on Ricky after ascertaining that they were knocked out. This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . Ricky was worse off than Isaac, so Irene promptly found a phone to call an ambnce, and then gave them first aid while waiting. The Runaway Groom Chapter 287 The Runaway Groom Chapter 287 Chapter 287 N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. When the ambnce arrived and rushed them to the hospital, Irene had to wait outside. Although she could help, she did not have a medical license and was not allowed into the examination room. After over an hour, both Ricky and Isaac were found to only suffer minor injuries and were treated ordingly. Still, they were admitted for observation since it was a bomb. Since they were admitted to different wards and Irene could not care for them both at the same time, she called Sheryl to help take care of Ricky. She then called Mrs. Watson, saying, ¡°Isaac and I won¡¯t be home tonight. Is Tommy doing alright?¡± ¡°Yes, he¡¯s such a good boy. Don¡¯t worry, Mrs. Jefferson-I will take good care of him.¡± Irene was naturally relieved since it was Mrs. Watson. ¡°Okay.¡± After that, she called Stan on Isaac¡¯s phone. She wanted to tell Stan that Isaac was unavable and could not work for a while, and to have Stan call if something important came up. However, the instant Stan heard what she said, he promptly pressed, Why? Did something happen?¡± ¡°He¡¯s hurt,¡± Irene admitted, and told him where they were. Stan arrived in half an hour, along with Debbie, Isaac¡¯s secretary. Seeing her, Irene was reminded of how entranced she had been when she touched herself on Isaac¡¯s desk. Right now, she was utterly serious-even grim-as if she was apletely different person from before. If she had not seen it with her own eyes, Irene would have doubted it if someone had told her what Debbie did instead. ¡°How did he get hurt?¡± Debbie asked just then. ¡°Yeah, what happened here? Why did he get hurt out of the blue?¡± Stan quickly echoed. ¡°There was a bomb, and he tried to save me,¡± Irene said. ¡°A bomb?¡± Stan eximed in surprise. ¡°How? Was it the Jeffersons-¡± ¡°No,¡± Irene replied. ¡°I don¡¯t know-we¡¯ll have to wait until Ricky wakes up to get an answer.¡± Only Ricky and Isaac knew that she had been taken to that unfinished building. Anyone else who knew where they were and nt that bomb must be the mastermind who goaded Ricky, and he probably knew who it was. ¡°Ricky is involved?¡± Stan asked. Irene nodded. That was when she caught Debbie sneaking a look at Isaac. Irene stayed impassive as she said, ¡°We don¡¯t need that many people around here. You both should head home to get some rest.¡± ¡°I can stay to help care for Mr. Jefferson. You should rest after what happened,¡± Debbie said then. ¡°No,¡± Irene refused. ¡°He¡¯s my husband, and I should care for him. I¡¯ll contact Stan if anythinges up.¡± ¡°Yeah. You should go,¡± Stan joined in. 12 Debbie lowered her gaze, and started to head out of the ward. ¡°Okay.¡± Still, she looked up again, seemingly to take another look at Isaac, only to find Irene staring at her instead. Composing herself instantly, she said, ¡°See you around,¡± Irene stayed quiet, and simply stared at Debbie impassively. While it had only been a theory before, Irene was nowpletely sure that Debbie was in love with Isaac. ¡°Stan, how long has Debbie been working for Isaac? Does he trust her a lot?¡± ¡°Both of us have worked for Mr. Jefferson for a while now. She¡¯s good at her job, so Mr. Jefferson trusts her considerably.¡± As Irene nodded in understanding, he asked, ¡°Why would you ask that out of the blue?¡± ¡°Nothing.¡± Irene replied. ¡°Just asking since I¡¯m not familiar with the people around Isaac.¡± Stan naturally did not dwell on it, and she said, ¡°I¡¯ll stay here. You should go too.¡± She then turned to find that Isaac had already recovered without her realizing it, and he was staring at her! The Runaway Groom Chapter 288 The Runaway Groom Chapter 288 Chapter 288 Walking up to Isaac, Irene asked, ¡°You¡¯re already awake? How are you feeling?¡± Isaac did not answer, however, and kept staring at her-she was not hurt, but she had yet to change her clothes, which were now a filthy mess. Noticing him staring at her clothing just then, she shrugged, ¡°Didn¡¯t have time to change.¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t like Debbie, I can have her transferred elsewhere.¡± He had clearly heard her conversation with Stan, and she had asked him about Debbie before as well. Perhaps she did not like women hanging around him? Meanwhile, Stan frowned. What had gotten between these two? Why was Debbie suddenly involved? Naturally, he voiced his own opinion on the matter. ¡°She¡¯s serious with her work, and I don¡¯t think she¡¯s ever made any major mistakes.¡± In reality he was hoping that Isaac did not transfer Debbie since he would need time to develop a new partnership if a new secretary came. Moreover, they had been longtime colleagues and their partnership had been great, so he was thinking about it from apletely professional standpoint. Meanwhile, Irene gave Isaac a look. ¡°I don¡¯t hate her or anything-I was just asking Stan about her since she¡¯s one of the people close to you. I simply wanted to know more about her.¡± It was a good enough exnation, and Stan felt that Irene was not that petty. In fact, he came to find her smart and easygoing, and she was not the type to harass anyone, let alone Debbie. Isaac, on the other hand¡­ was acting like a total ve to her. Here Irene was, just asking about Debbie, and he was already thinking that she was jealous? The man was not like that before-love certainly changes a man, and this was the first time Stan had ever seen Isaac being so eager to earn a woman¡¯s favor. What a rare sight! Isaac then turned toward Stan and saw the eagerness on his face to gossip. His gaze darkened, and he growled, ¡°If you have so much free time, why don¡¯t you clean up every toilet at the headquarters?¡± Both Stan and Irene were speechless, though the former was soon throwing up his hands in surrender. One must never poke their nose into their boss¡¯s private affairs, it seems. Chuckling fawningly, he said, ¡°Actually, I¡¯m quite busy.¡± On the other hand, Irene was utterly confused as to why Isaac suddenly turned his crosshairs on Stan. She just did not know that Isaac was very familiar with the people around him, and had immediately seen that Stan was keen on gossiping. ¡°Keep an eye on Quincy Moore¡¯s movements,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Yes, sir. I¡¯ll personally see to it,¡± Stan replied. ¡°Also, I¡¯ve passed the document to Kathy York and told her 12 to deliver it to Quincy Moore. I think she¡¯s convinced that the document is genuine, and would now be contacting Light Group¡¯s various shareholders to prepare a coup.¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. ¡°Good. Now go about your business,¡± Isaac growled. Stan hence tactfully left the ward, carefully closing the door behind him. Irene arched her back, staring at him as she asked softly, ¡°Are you hungry or thirsty?¡± ¡°Neither,¡± Isaac replied, and held out a hand. Irene put hers on his, and locked fingers with him! ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, her eyes a little red just then.. She remembered how she felt when she saw that rock wedged on his back, which got there because he was shielding her, keeping her unscathed. She would certainly not have been fine otherwise, and she had never felt this protected in her life. At that very moment, her emotions were burgeoning, and her heart raced uncontrobly-she was almost. rejoicing. If Ricky¡¯s dud bomb did not really test him, the real one certainly did. Sitting on his bed, she gently ced her head over his chest, listening to his strong, rhythmic heartbeats! H The Runaway Groom Chapter 289 The Runaway Groom Chapter 289 Chapter 289 Isaac lowered his gaze just then, but he was only able to see the top of her head. ¡°Would you be upset if I told you that I knew Ricky¡¯s bomb was fake?¡± Irene looked up in surprise. ¡°What? You knew?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac replied-he knew it was a fake the instant he saw it. Nheless, Irene smiled. ¡°So what?¡± After all, he was definitely tested when he tried to save her. Even if the first one was a dud, the second one was real. So this was the warmth of a person. As a child, Sheryl had been too meek while Lionel was too overbearing, so she never felt much warmth from her family. ¡°I never expected this when I married you¡­¡± In fact, Isaac himself did not either. Knock, knock. Someone knocked on the door just then, and Sheryl¡¯s voice could soon be heard. ¡°Irene? Ricky is awake.¡± This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . Irene had told Sheryl to inform her right away when Ricky recovered, since she had questions for him. She quickly sat up and said, ¡°Got it.¡± Sheryl was going to leave, but remembered that Isaac was just as hurt as Ricky was, and so asked in concern, ¡°Is Isaac up yet?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene replied, ncing at Isaac. ¡°Is he alright?¡± ¡°He¡¯s fine. He just needs a few days¡¯ rest.¡± Sheryl breathed a sigh of relief. She certainly did not want anything happening to Isaac-it was not easy for her daughter to find someone she belonged to. What would happen to her if Isaac was really hurt? *See? My mom cares about you,¡± Irene said with a smile. ¡°I¡¯ll go check on Ricky-I¡¯ll be right back.¡± ¡°I¡¯ming too,¡± Isaac said, sitting up as well. Irene helped him up, but said, ¡°You¡¯re hurt.¡± ¡°It¡¯s no trouble,¡± he replied, since he was not all that hurt anyway. Irene had no choice but to help him. Although he was wearing a patient¡¯s garb, he still towered over her, and he chuckled as she put his arm over her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m very heavy.¡± ¡°I can take it,¡± she replied. ¡°Are you sure?¡± Irene did not see the mysterious look on his face, and replied, ¡°I¡¯m sure.¡± However, she had barely spoken when Isaac pushed her down on the bed beneath himself. Her eyes widened in surprise before she blinked. ¡°What-¡± Biting her lip, she whispered, ¡°We¡¯re in a hospital. Get off me.¡± She was worried that others would see them. Isaac, however, stayed on top of her, his gaze tender yet zing. Irene somehow felt thirsty from his stare-no one could resist that look. She reached up with her lips to kiss him, wrapping her thin arms around his neck. Isaac passionately kissed her back, and soon there was tongue involved. As they embraced each other, they were bent on conveying their feelings in the most primitive way¡­ when the door suddenly swung open! The Runaway Groom Chapter 290 The Runaway Groom Chapter 290 Chapter 290 A nurse came in with fresh bandages and other medicine, holding a tray in one hand as she opened the door with the other. Irene was utterly embarrassed when she heard the nursee in, and buried her face in Isaac¡¯s chest. The nurse naturally did not expect to catch them at such an awkward moment either, and was left freezing up at the doorway, unsure if she should enter or leave. This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . Isaac turned around and leveled a cold re at the nurse. ¡°Out.¡± Coming to her senses and realizing that she did not knock, the nurse quickly closed the door behind her, patting her chest to calm herself. Isaac¡¯s re was so cold it could freeze her blood! However, Irene pushed him off shyly inside. She refrained from doing it too forcefully since he was hurt, and it looked just like a love tap. ¡°See? She saw us. This is so embarrassing.¡± ¡°We¡¯re married.¡± Isaac got up, straightening her wrinkled cor. Irene smiled at the tender man on top of herself. The nurse was still there when they stepped out, and Irene told her, ¡°Just leave everything on the table inside. I can do it for him.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± the nurse said, did as she was told and left. She was traumatized by Isaac¡¯s re-even if he was really good-looking, she was too afraid to let her stare linger! Later, both Isaac and Irene arrived at Ricky¡¯s ward, where Sheryl was helping him drink. Ricky greeted Irene the instant she saw her, and gave her a pleading look as if asking her not to tell Sheryl what happened-Sheryl would not be this nice if she knew, not to mention that she and Irene were Ricky¡¯s only family now. To Ricky¡¯s relief, Irene nodded, gesturing that she would not tell Sheryl. Sheryl noticed their exchange since she was looking at Isaac, and then disapprovingly at her own. daughter. ¡°He¡¯s hurt and should be resting. Don¡¯t you know how to care for a patient? Hurry, Isaac, go sit on that couch.¡± While Irene was left speechless, Isaac insisted, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± ¡°No, you¡¯re not,¡± Sheryl said. ¡°And you should be resting.¡± Issac pursed his lips, his gaze darkening even as Sheryl gestured for Irene to make him sit. At the same time, Irene whispered to him quietly so that only both of them could hear, ¡°I think Mom appreciates having you as her son-inw.¡± Isaac held her gaze. ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t appreciate someone as outstanding as me?¡± Irene was left speechless. How narcissistic could he get? However, it was not the time for that. Turning toward Ricky, she asked, ¡°Did you see that person¡¯s face?¡± ¡°I did not,¡± Ricky replied. ¡°She kept her back to me and she was dressed like a man, but I have the feeling that she¡¯s a woman from her figure and the way she¡¯s dressed, even though I never saw her face. She must have put on a disguise to fool me.¡± ¡°A woman?¡± Irene was not actually surprised, and immediately thought of Robin Lynd and Kathy York. Isaac said nothing, although he appeared pensive. ¡°I have an idea,¡± Ricky said just then. ¡°What is it?¡± Irene asked. Ricky nced at Isaac and said, ¡°Let¡¯s keep this between us.¡± Irene noticed that he did not want Isaac to know, so she walked up to Ricky¡¯s bed. ¡°Tell me.¡± Ricky beckoned for her to get closer.. Next Chapter Coming Soon... The Runaway Groom Chapter 291 The Runaway Groom Chapter 291 Chapter 291 Irene gave Ricky a look, but moved closer so that Ricky whispered into her ear. ¡°Ask Isaac to y dead-¡± ¡°What?!¡± Irene eximed, losingposure before Ricky could even finish. ¡°Oh, calm down-let me finish,¡± Ricky assured her. Irene nced at Isaac, and returned to Ricky. ¡°You¡¯re really overreacting there.¡± Ricky chuckled. Irene rolled her eyes. ¡°Save it. Just tell me already.¡± Ricky grinned-he knew that Isaac had utterly won Irene over after what happened, which was naturally a good thing for him. After all, it was a blessing in disguise, considering that a bomb was involved. ¡°Ask Isaac to y dead, so that I can request to meet her and tell her that. We can apprehend her during the meeting, and we¡¯ll know who it is-if Isaac didn¡¯t kill Mom, it must be her. She must be nning to frame Isaac to set me against you two.¡± Irene thought it was possible too. ¡°Okay.¡± ¡°Then could you talk to His Iceness over there?¡± Ricky asked. Irene turned toward Isaac to find him scowling as always-Ricky certainly had reason for that moniker, rude though it might be. Hence, she went to sit beside Isaac on the couch, smiling because she was unsure where to begin. That was when Isaac suddenly said, ¡°It won¡¯t work.¡± ¡°What?¡± Irene did not understand. ¡°Your n won¡¯t work,¡± Isaac repeated. ¡°Why not?¡± Ricky argued impatiently. ¡°You¡¯re her target, and she¡¯ll definitely agree to meet if she thinks you¡¯re dead. When she does, we can set an ambush.¡± ¡°Do you really think she¡¯d fall for it?¡± Isaac countered. ¡°We didn¡¯t issue a gag order, and she might already know that I survived.¡± Irene realized with a start. ¡°Yeah, I have to agree¡­ It¡¯s no secret that Isaac was hospitalized. She would have been observing in secret, and must have known by now that he¡¯s fine¡­¡± Ricky felt disappointed just then. He had thought his n wless at first, but after Isaac¡¯s argument, he realized that the culprit would have known by now that they survived. As he breathed a long sigh, Irene told him, ¡°We have all the time we need. Don¡¯t try to rush things.¡± Then, helping Isaac up to his feet, she said, ¡°You should go back to your room to rest. We have to change your bandages too.¡± They did so, but Isaac had just sat down when his phone started ringing. Irene passed it to him and he answered. It was Stan. ¡°Quincy Moore really worked fast-she has already convinced your grandfather to call for another board meeting.¡± ¡°When?¡± Isaac asked. ¡°At 8 a.m. tomorrow.¡± Stan replied. Isaac grinned. Quincy had always been prudent, but she was naturally impatient this time because she believed she had Isaac¡¯s Achilles¡¯ heel, and really wanted to im Light Group for herself. Still, she moved so quickly that it somewhat surprised him. ¡°Got it.¡± He hung up. This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . Irene was worried. ¡°You¡¯re still hurt.¡± ¡°It¡¯s just a flesh wound,¡± Isaac replied-the meeting was going to be very important. After all, it was not just Light Group in the bnce-he wanted Quincy behind bars! She had been let free for years, and it was time she paid for what she did! Turning toward Irene, he said, ¡°Bring me a set of fresh clothes. I would need to be there.¡± Irene did not know what he was going to do, and tried to reason, ¡°Anything could wait until you¡¯re better.¡± ¡°I need to do this.¡± He made a serious face just then, something he rarely did around Irene. She could tell from his eyes that it was very important, and thus said, ¡°I¡¯ll go right now.¡± ¡°Wait.¡± Isaac suddenly stopped her. Puzzled, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 292 The Runaway Groom Chapter 292 Chapter 292 Isaac said, ¡°Forget it, I wasn¡¯t thinking straight. We could just give Mrs. Watson a call-¡± ¡°I should go back,¡± Irene said, cutting him short. She wanted to go home and check on Tommy anyway. Moreover, Mrs. Watson would be busy caring for their baby, and would not have time to bring Isaac a change of clothes. She walked up to Isaac, and since he was sitting on his bed, she appeared much taller than him-his face was just reaching her chest. Still, he reached out to gather her in his arms. Irene smiled as she gave him a gentle shove. ¡°Not afraid to be seen again?¡± ¡°Let them see,¡± Isaac growled. Looking at him tenderly, Irene leaned in to kiss his forehead. ¡°You¡¯re hurt, so get some rest. I¡¯ll be right. back after checking on Tommy.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± he said softly. Irene headed out and returned to the mansion in a taxi. Naturally, Mrs. Watson had been caring for Tommy meticulously. The baby could recognize faces now, and he was so happy to see Irene that he iled his hands for a hug. Irene did not, since she was still in her dirty clothes. ¡°Mommy needs a bath. I¡¯ll be right back, okay?¡± she said as she headed to the shower, and Tommy started bawling because of that. Irene had to make the shower quick and pick him up, and he was still sniffling miserably in her arms. Giving him a peck on the cheek, Ireneforted him, ¡°It¡¯s alright, baby. Mommy¡¯s here. ¡°Mah¡­ Mee¡­¡± the baby blurted. Irene¡¯s eyes widened in surprise and delight. ¡°Did you just say ¡®mommy¡¯?¡± It was almost unintelligible, but it did sound like ¡®mommy¡¯¡­. Her eyes welled with tears of excitement, and she showered Tommy with more kisses. Oh, her little darling! Only mothers would understand how her spirits soared at that very moment! Perhaps because he had been crying too hard, Tommy began to doze off in Irene¡¯s arms. Isaac was waiting for her at the hospital, so she had to carefully hand him over to Mrs. Watson again, who asked softly, ¡°Are you going out again, Mrs. Jefferson? What about your husband?¡± ¡°Something came up, so it will be a few days before hees back. I¡¯m counting on you to look after Tommy.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am,¡± Mrs. Watson assured her. ¡°I won¡¯t leave the house. I¡¯ll ask Jimmy to buy anything we would need.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°Wargh!¡± As if sensing that it was not Irene holding him, Tommy started to bawl in Mrs. Watson¡¯s arms. As such, Irene had to take him back, gently rocking him and coaxing him to sleep. That took a long while, and two hours passed by the time Irene got Isaac¡¯s clothes and returned to the hospital. She took a taxi again, since she told Jimmy to stay and help Mrs. Watson with what she needed. When Irene returned to Isaac¡¯s ward, she found him lying on his side on his bed with his eyes closed. Unsure if he was asleep, she tiptoed inside, but Isaac opened his eyes as she closed the door behind herself. ¡°Kept you waiting?¡± Irene asked. ¡°Nope,¡± Isaac said as he sat up. ¡°You were taking your time, though.¡± ¡°Tommy just said ¡®mommy¡¯, and was being a little clingy. Took me a while to coax him to sleep,¡± Irene exined as she put down the bag she brought and took out the shirt, suit, and pants in it, cing them evenly on bed. Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. She then unbuttoned Isaac¡¯s patient garb, gradually revealing his muscr chest. Irene kept her eyes fixed on him. ¡°What are you going to do? Is it dangerous?¡± Isaac met her gaze with seriousness. ¡°Nope.¡± Irene was slightly relieved, and eventually stripped off his garb to help put on his shirt, looking just like a domestic goddess as she slowly buttoned it, caring meticulously for her husband! Isaac liked it¡­ but suddenly caught her hand. Irene asked, ¡°What?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± Isaac replied as he released her. ¡°You have to stand up now,¡± she told him-or she would otherwise not be able to take off his pants. Isaac was stupefied. The Runaway Groom Chapter 293 The Runaway Groom Chapter 293 Chapter 293 Although he had always been in charge, Isaac somehow felt uneasy-even though they had been together for a while and long since familiar with each other¡¯s bodies. However, as Irene was going to take off his pants, he suddenly felt a little embarrassed for some reason! ¡°I can do it myself,¡± he said, taking the pants off her hands. Irene giggled when she noticed that his ears were flushed. Goodness! He actually felt awkward and embarrassed, after he had been so clingy with her and acting as shameless as he had been? And now, he was suddenly an innocent, self-conscious pubescent boy? ¡°Isaac¡­¡± Though Irene hid her lips behind a palm, she was shaking withughter! Isaac feignedposure as he growled, ¡°Is it really that funny?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene said after taking a moment to calm herself. ¡°It really surprised me.¡± Left speechless, he cleared his throat to hide his embarrassment and threw the pants at her, snapping like a tsundere, ¡°Help me wear it¡± Irene stared at him. ¡°Are you sure?¡± N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. Isaac nodded, and tried to make himself imposing and proud. ¡°I¡¯m hurt. You have to help me!¡± Irene was speechless. Fine. He really changed his mind as quickly as one turned a page on a book! And he was just so embarrassed about it just now! Still, she walked up to him, deliberately breathing at his face while he kept her hands on his hip. ¡°I¡¯m doing. it now, okay?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac replied, keeping his eyes glued to the ceiling. He could feel Irene¡¯s cool touch against his skin, and stiffened just then. Irene sensed that, and could not hide a smile. Isaac frowned. Was sheughing at him? Was this really that amusing? ¡°You love tough at me, don¡¯t you?¡± he asked. ¡°Yeah,¡± Irene admitted. ¡°This is amusing¡­¡± She then met Isaac¡¯s bright gaze, and her smile promptly stiffened as she quickly corrected herself, ¡°Wait, I mean, not really¡­¡± But it was toote-Isaac had already wrapped his arms around her slender waist and pulled her toward himself. He held her so tightly she almost could not breathe! ¡°Let me go. You¡¯re going to get your clothes crumpled.¡± Isaac narrowed his eyes. ¡°No.¡± Irene was speechless again. Fine, she did upset him! Smiling fawningly, she said, ¡°Sorry.¡± ¡°Why?¡± he asked. ¡°I shouldn¡¯tugh at you.¡± He then leaned in to bite her on her lips. Ouch! Irene gasped from pain, because he was really biting down on her. ¡°I¡¯ll punish you in bed next time,¡± he whispered into her ear. Irene blushed right then. Honestly, this man! As they dilly-dallied, it took Isaac half an hour to get dressed. He said, ¡°I¡¯ll be right back.¡± Irene nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting.¡± Isaac nodded and left-he did not have a moment to waste! Ireene watched him leave, and turned away when the door closed behind him. Sitting on his bed, she thought she should return home to take care of Tommy. However, Isaac¡¯s doctor had insisted that he stay for three days for observation, since he had been struck by a bomb. That was when the door suddenly swung right open, and she stiffened upon seeing who it was! The Runaway Groom Chapter 294 The Runaway Groom Chapter 294 Chapter 294 Irene quickly rose to her feet, asking Ricky, ¡°You¡¯re hurt! Why did youe here? What¡¯s with that look?¡± Ricky¡¯s eyes were welling with tears, and he appeared unable to speak. Beside him, Sheryl said, ¡°The police just came, saying that they¡¯re closing the case on Samantha White, and requesting that we im her body from the morgue.¡± ¡°What?!¡± Irene eximed in shock. Why would the police close the case on Samantha? However, it made sense when she really considered it-the culprit would naturally want that since they/ had failed to pin the crime on Isaac. As Irene walked up to Ricky and helped him stand, he told her, ¡°The police said that the verdict will be formally announced at court tomorrow. Will youe with us?¡± ¡°Definitely-the culprit would definitely be worried about leaving a mess. That¡¯s why they want it to end soon.¡± ¡°But can I really find them if they close the case?¡± Ricky was almost hysterical. ¡°Of course, once we have evidence to build a case,¡± Irene told him. ¡°But right now, we have nothing to go on at the moment, let alone how they got your mother out of prison. That means we have to ept that for the moment, and wait for them to let their guard down before reopening the case.¡± ¡°It must be the person I saw!¡± Ricky snarled with spite. Irene pped him on the shoulder to calm him. ¡°Right now, you need to get better. Once you¡¯ve recovered, we¡¯ll work together to find your mother¡¯s killer.¡± Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. ¡°Yeah.¡± Ricky nodded. In a certain mansion, a man was holding a woman in his arms and assuring her, ¡°Alright, calm down. Things didn¡¯t go as nned, but they still don¡¯t know who you are. We wouldn¡¯t have gotten off this easy either if Isaac Jefferson wasn¡¯t busy with family issues, so just lie low for a while.¡± The woman gave him a cold look. ¡°But I went through all that, and couldn¡¯t even make Ricky my tool. That bomb also somehow missed Isaac although it was so close! What a blunder! Do you think we¡¯d have another chance?!¡± Isaac¡¯s hunch at the time was right-she was watching them when the bomb went off, and she knew right away that they survived. She would not have fallen for it if Ricky had really contacted her! Her eyes were burning with spite. ¡°Well, I guess this is it¡­ But it¡¯s so frustrating!¡± The man kept trying to calm her down. ¡°There¡¯s this nice restaurant I know. Shall we go there together?¡± He was being patient, and knowing that he genuinely loved her, the woman did not pout too much despite her bad mood. Smiling as she threw herself into his arms, she said, ¡°Okay.¡± The man happily showered her with kisses, and it escted soon enough. When it was all done, they were on the couch naked, with the man exhausted and lying sprawled on his back. The woman looked at him, but there was no tenderness in her eyes-only indifference! In spite of his love, she did not seem to care for him at all! The next day, the woman arrived at court, disguised as a journalist. Irene and Sheryl were there apanying Ricky. Irene was only there for Ricky, and would not have cared less that Samantha was gone, if not for her stepbrother. Soon after they took their seats, a notary announced the closure of the case on Samantha¡¯s murder. The short version was that Samantha had feigned illness to get out of prison and escaped at the hospital, but killed herself out of guilt and fear that she would be recaptured! The Runaway Groom Chapter 295 The Runaway Groom Chapter 295 Chapter 295 This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. Any idiot could have told that there would have been people watching Samantha even though she was transported to the prison. The only reason she had escaped was because someone well-connected got her out. Ricky was agitated even as he listened to the verdict. Seeing that his hands were balled into fists, Irene tried to assure him, ¡°Just calm down.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t.¡± Ricky wanted to stay calm too, but he could not-his mother was murdered, but they were now saying that she killed herself! Knowing the truth he was unable to ept the verdict¡­ but he had no evidence either! Despite his knowledge, he could not do anything, leaving him utterly indignant! Irene sighed softly-she understood how he felt, and said nothing. He was going to need time after this. The verdict announcement ended soon enough, and they were allowed to take Samantha¡¯s body to bury it. Ricky left and Sheryl went with him, while Irene waited outside. That was when she saw a female journalist walking nearby. Though she was not paying thetter much attention, she somehow found her familiar but could not put a finger on where they had met. Then, as the other woman walked past her, she turned to look. Irene was taken aback by the look in her eyes-she thought she saw spite, even though they were not acquainted! Still, just as Irene wanted to talk to her, Sheryl called out from inside, ¡°Irene? We need a hand here.¡± Irene took onest look at the other woman and headed inside. When she turned, she missed the naked spite in the woman¡¯s eyes! Sheryl was watching as people carried off Samantha¡¯s body, and they had already arranged for a hearse. Ricky was still injured and could not do much aside from signing papers, so Sheryl asked Irene to lead him to the car. After being kept at the morgue for quite a while, Samantha¡¯s body had to be buried quickly. Ricky had nned for her to be interred at the same graveyard as Lionel Spencer, but the spot next to Lionel¡¯s had been purchased. Still, Ricky wanted to bury her with Lionel, so he asked, ¡°Would you be upset if I buried Mom with Dad?¡± ¡°She was with him for over twenty years, hasn¡¯t she?¡± Irene said. ¡°She¡¯s pretty much his wife even if they weren¡¯t actually married.¡± Ricky cheered up a little. ¡°Okay¡­ I¡¯m relieved that you¡¯d say so.¡± Still, Irene held his gaze, her expression suddenly serious. ¡°Since we¡¯re talking about this, I¡¯m going to tell you something¡­ Please don¡¯t get upset.¡± Ricky rarely saw her being serious, and his heart skipped a beat. Was she hiding something from him? ¡°What is it, Irene?¡± he asked, his throat feeling a little parched just then. Irene said, ¡°About the grave-¡± ¡°The grave? What about it?¡± Ricky interrupted before she could finish. Irene really wanted to roll her eyes at him just then. ¡°Could you let me finish?¡± ¡°Oh!¡± Ricky eximed right then. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll stop. Tell me.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 296 The Runaway Groom Chapter 296 Chapter 296 Clearing her throat, Irene said, ¡°You see, I¡¯m the one who bought the graves next to our father¡¯s.¡± She had been wary toward Samantha, though it was not to say that she was helping Sheryl retain her ce as Lionel¡¯s legally married wife. After all, Sheryl was over Lionel, and Irene wanted her mother to live a long, fulfilling life-she did not want a grave for her so soon. In fact, Irene had bought it just because she did not want Samantha to be interred beside Lionel. On the other hand, it took Ricky a long while to actually realize what Irene meant. ¡°You did that for Sheryl?¡± ¡°More or less,¡± Irene said. ¡°Huh.¡± Rick sighed, realizing that he was toote. It seemed that he was not as smart as Irene, who showed foresight while he only thought about his mother¡¯s funeral matters now. ¡°You¡¯re really smart, Sis. Dad was right to leave Spencer Holdings in your care,¡± he said. At that very moment, he was not actually jealous-instead, he was impressed with Irene¡¯s consideration. She had also been the one who resolved a crisis for thepany before, and he must admit that their father had shown foresight in leaving matters to her. In fact, the reason Lionel had not divorced Sheryl was probably not just because he still had feelings for Sheryl, but also because he acknowledged Irene as his daughter. ¡°Yes, but Spencer Holdings is in your hands now,¡± Irene said. ¡°That¡¯s why you should pull yourself together soon to lead everyone again. Your mother had been hoping for you to inherit the family¡¯s estates, but you have to know that money and real property aren¡¯t alive. On the other hand, if you do well at thepany, you would earn the money and respect. I¡¯m sure your mother wants you to be sessful too, so you should really do well so that she could be at ease.¡± Ricky nodded at her encouragement. ¡°Yeah.¡± He had always known that Samantha wanted him to inherit the Spencer estate, and Irene was also right in that Spencer Holdings was the family¡¯s lifeblood, and could bring him more value! Samantha might even be at peace now if she knew that it was in his hands. Still, he would not have control over Spencer Holdings if Irene did not give it to him. ¡°Thank you, Irene.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need to be so polite. We¡¯re family,¡± she replied. Over at the Light Group headquarters, Quincy was presiding over the board meeting. Naturally, Henry had to show up since Quincy would have no right otherwise. However, things were different today, since no one was siding with Isaac, whilen was present as well. Quincy had managed to take him out of police custody because Isaac did not interfere, and here he was now, showing up at the board meeting! As the meeting started, Henry promptly threw a stack of reports on the table. ¡°I think everyone should see this.¡± He had already toldn to prepare printed copies and distribute a copy to each board member. Everyone was furious after they read it, and promptly turned their crosshairs on Isaac. ¡°We trusted you, Isaac. How could you burn our money like this?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right! I even defended you before!¡± Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. ¡°That¡¯s hundreds of millions of dors lost, and you hid it from us! Who do you think we are?¡± ¡®Exin yourself, Isaac!¡± At the same time,n was smiling smugly. ¡°Didn¡¯t expect this, did you, Isaac? Did you really think you could fool everyone?¡± On the other hand, Henry was very direct. ¡°I propose to remove Isaac from his position as CEO. Does anyone have anything to say?¡± This time, the board members were quiet-unlike before, none of them were defending Isaac because they were doing this for the money. Now that their wallets were hurt, they certainly would not want him as CEO anymore. Moreover, Quincy had spoken to everyone in private, promising higher bonuses shouldn sessfully rece Isaac as CEO. The only reason they were rmending Greg Jefferson before was becausen had been arrested, but now thatn was here, Quincy was going all out to support her son. Even if she had been so sweet with Greg before, she was much more at ease having her son take over. The Runaway Groom Chapter 297 The Runaway Groom Chapter 297 Chapter 297 That was the reason why Quincy was so eager to haven take over as Light Group¡¯s CEO. After she cajoled Henry, it was inevitable thatn was here today! And now that they had leverage against Isaac, Henry could actually be harsh with Isaac. ¡°What about you, Isaac? Do you have anything to say?¡± Isaac was busy pretending to be shocked and upset, as if he never expected this to happen. This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org . He even made a show of scolding Stan in front of everyone. ¡°What do I pay you for? How could you let this document leak out?!¡± ¡°Sorry, sir¡­ I don¡¯t know what happened either!¡± Stan eximed. ¡°Sure he did, but thepany also lost hundreds of millions because of him. That¡¯s reality, and a man like that is not fit to be CEO, and no one would buy into his policies anymore.¡± One of the board members bribed by Quy quickly spoke up forn, ¡°That¡¯s right! I thinkn is more capable of leading Light Group to a better future, and he is a Jefferson too!¡± Isaac began, ¡°I¡¯ve been leading thepany to new heights over the years-¡± ¡°Save it. That¡¯s all in the past now.¡± Someone promptly cut him short. No one would have spoken to Isaac like that before, but they all grew a spine now that they knew the Jeffersons wanted to topple him! However, this was exactly what Isaac wanted, and so he acted as if he could not do anything against the current situation and said with despondence, ¡°In that case, I resign my position as CEO.¡± Rising to his feet, he told Stan, ¡°Let¡¯s clear everything out by today.¡± ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan replied, and cast a cool nce at the board members, snorting. They were certainly snakes-after Isaac worked so hard to build so much for them, they turned against him at the drop of a hat, showing zero inclination to overlook it for old times¡¯ sake. After they left, however, Isaac did not actually head to his office. He was already at the elevator, ready to leave, while Stan made a show of going to his office to clean up, even though they had already moved out everything important. It was just cheap theatrics. ¡°Mr. Jefferson¡­¡± Debbie the secretary called out as she approached him. ¡°Talk to Stan,¡± Isaac told her. ¡°He¡¯ll make the arrangements for you.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Debbie hung her head, even as the elevator jingled and Isaac left. He was already gone when she looked up, but she kept staring at the elevator doors for a long while! When Isaac returned to his hospital ward, Irene was lounging on the couch when she heard hime in. She quickly stood up, walked up to him, and asked, ¡°Did everything go well?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac said lightly. ¡°I have to look at your bandages now,¡± Irene said as she helped him unbutton his suit. He should not be wearing anything tight given his injury, since it would rub against his injury and affect its recovery. Once it was off, Irene immediately saw that his cuts and bruises were once again swollen red, and it was just as gruesome as it had been when she first saw it. It pained her heart to see that, and she slowly reached for it, apprehensive about touching it. Sheughed at herself inwardly then-she was a surgeon and often wielded the scalpel. Why was she being afraid? She had seen worse cases than this during surgery. However, it was likely she felt this way because she cared about him, and it was natural that doctors never operate on family members. They would let their colleagues do it instead, because nerves might get to them and cause them to make mistakes. ¡°Lie down,¡± she said. Isaac hencey on his stomach over his bed, since he was hurt in his back, making it easy for Irene to tend to his injury. Irene took a deep breath topose herself, and managed to do so quickly thanks to her experience as a doctor. She quickly prepared the medicine and went to work, cleaning his wounds while telling him about her day¡­ and that was when she remembered the journalist she met in court, and suddenly remembered Whitney Cox as well. Right! That woman resembled Whitney so much! ¡°Could it be her?¡± she mumbled. Isaac missed what she said. ¡°What?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 298 The Runaway Groom Chapter 298 Chapter 298 Irene replied, ¡°When I went with Ricky to court, I saw this woman¡­ Huh, maybe it¡¯s nothing.¡± Some people just bear a striking resemnce with others, after all, and she did not want to add to Isaac¡¯s troubles since he was very busy at the moment. Nheless, Isaac frowned. ¡°What is it? Aren¡¯t you going to finish your sentence?¡± ¡°Like I said, it¡¯s nothing.¡± Ireneughed. ¡°Anyway, we can put the matter aside after Samantha White¡¯s funeral tomorrow.¡± Knock, knock. Irene had barely finished when someone knocked on her door. ¡°Come in,¡± she said, and the door only opened at that. It was Stan, and he was carrying a box containing a mess of documents and random items. He put the box on the table beforeing to them and said, ¡°They appointedn Jefferson as CEO.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Isaac grunted in acknowledgement-he was not surprised by the oue. It was all part of his n anyway, since Quincy would only let down her guard once he was gone from Light Group. Still, Stan felt indignant. ¡°Those board members only care about their money! It¡¯s just so frustrating to see -how much money do they think we made for them over the years? But they couldn¡¯t wait to kick you when you¡¯re down!¡± Though it was their n all along, their heinous behavior left Stan disenchanted and sick to the stomach, and he growled spitefully, ¡°Well, this suits us just fine. They¡¯d actually ruin our ns if they get sentimental -now, I¡¯m looking forward to the day Light Group goes bankrupt.¡± While the document stating Light Group¡¯s losses was genuine, Isaac had Kathy deliver it to Quincy anyway. That was because only he and Stan knew that the supposedly lost capital was diverted to apany called Remy in Franconia, and it was thest moveable asset Light Group had. Right now, Light Group was nothing more than an empty husk without any profitable projects, while any industry that was making money at all had been diverted to foreign soil as well. And what would he tell the board during the mid-year and year-end reviews? It was clear that the board would swallow anyone whole, and they only wanted their profit regardless of how difficult it was! ¡°Still, now that I think about it, we can do anything without anyone telling us otherwise. It honestly feels cathartic.¡± Stan cheered up at the very thought-Light Group might be rich and had plenty of resources, but the board¡¯s approval was required for any megaprojects that might cost upward of a billion. There was no chance of implementation if no approval was given. On the other hand, everything Isaac said goes at Remy. They were certainly in for a much more pleasant time in contrast to Light Group! In that respect, Stan was actually happy that the board was being that cold. They would actually feel tied down if someone sided with Isaac after all that, and they would not be able to leave with such a clear conscience! ¡°Go home,¡± Isaac said just then. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to do for now. You¡¯ll be in charge when they call for a transition.¡± That reminded Stan about something else. ¡°Oh, right-I asked Debbie to move to Remy so that she could keep working as your secretary, but she¡¯s not interested in moving out of the country, and was demanding to see you. What do you think?¡± Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. Irene¡¯s ears pricked up at the mention of Debbie. Maybe women are just sensitive, or maybe it takes one to know one, but Irene knew right then that Debbie, was definitely getting funny ideas about Isaac! ¡°He¡¯s already left once today, and his injuries are getting infected. He shouldn¡¯t go out again.¡± While she personally did not want Isaac to see Debbie, what she said was still the truth-he just had to wear loose clothes for a few days for his injury to start healing, or it would not heal even after two weeks. Feeling awkward just then, Stan asked, ¡°Well, what can I do? She¡¯s not listening to me.¡± ¡°I can talk to her,¡± Irene suggested. Isaac turned toward her, seemingly reading her mind right then. She averted her eyes, afraid to look at him just then! The Runaway Groom Chapter 299 The Runaway Groom Chapter 299 Chapter 299 Turning his face so that half of it was buried in his pillow, Isaac said, ¡°You can go if you want.¡± Stan pursed his lips, understanding what was going on just then. Truly, what goes aroundes around¡­ to think that the day hade that Isaac was kept on a leash- and on a very tight leash at that! Despite what she said, Irene remained focused as she bandaged Isaac. ¡°Stay here and rest.¡± Isaac then took her hand and gave it a squeeze. ¡°Come back soon. Have Stan stay with you.¡± Irene nodded and left the ward. Stan was ready waiting outside. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± she said. Stan quickly followed, appearing hesitant to speak his mind despite holding the car keys. Unable to stand his fidgeting, Irene said, ¡°Just spit it already.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not much, but¡­ I just wanted to say that you might be paranoid. Debbie and I are both indebted to Mr. Jefferson, and we¡¯re definitely loyal to him-¡± ¡°Why do you think I¡¯m paranoid?¡± Irene asked in return, cutting him short. Stan became quiet since he had no response to that. Even as he drove, they never said a word as they soon arrived at Debbie¡¯s home. When Stan knocked on the door, and Debbie opened it to see that it was him, she scowled. ¡°Like I said, I¡¯m not leaving the country. I¡¯m just a secretary, so what can I do over there if Mr. Jefferson isn¡¯t there-¡± She soon trailed off as she spotted Irene behind Stan, and her eyes shed briefly in wariness. ¡°W- What are you doing here?¡± ¡°She came to talk to you,¡± Stan replied, answering for Irene. ¡°About what?¡± Debbie¡¯s gaze was certainly evasive. ¡°About leaving the country,¡± Irene replied, and told Stan, ¡°Wait for me outside. I¡¯ll speak with her alone.¡± Debbie appeared resistant. ¡°Stan could pass your message. You didn¡¯t have toe all the way here.¡± ¡°You are Isaac¡¯s subordinate, and he¡¯s hurt, so he couldn¡¯te. It¡¯s only logical that I represent him as his wife to try to persuade you, or am perhaps not wee here?¡± Irene¡¯s words were utterly dominant! Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Unable to find an excuse, Debbie looked up to meet Irene¡¯s gaze and stood aside. ¡°Doe in.¡± Irene entered and cast a sweeping nce over the interior-anyone earning an average sry could never afford a house of this scale, with its location and the furnishing inside. Debbie was apparently quite rich, and Isaac had been kind to her. Seemingly reading her mind just then, Debbie said, ¡°Mr. Jefferson has always been good to his own.¡± Irene nodded in understanding, and Debbie brewed her a cup of tea-it was obvious that she was ufortable with Irene around, although they were in her own home. ¡°Here, have a drink.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Irene smiled, taking a seat on the couch. With that, Debbie was once against lowering her gaze, afraid to meet Irene¡¯s eyes. ¡°There¡¯s a reason I don¡¯t want to leave the country.¡± ¡°Do tell,¡± Irene said as she took a sip of the tea. In reality, Debbie was bright and outstanding, but she seemed to lose her glow in Irene¡¯s presence. Anyone would be looking at Irene first if they stood together, as Irene outshone her in both looks and ir-her coolposure and the way she carried herself appeared affable, but people would still know enough to keep a respectful distance. Looking up at Irene just then, Debbie asked, ¡°Do you know what my job as a secretary entails?¡± She was trying to fend off Irene by using her job as an excuse! The Runaway Groom Chapter 300 The Runaway Groom Chapter 300 Chapter 300 Irene was not intimidated however, and asked nonchntly, ¡°Does this have anything to do with your insistence on staying?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not your run-of-the-mill secretary in charge of answering calls, preparing for meetings, and other measly errands. I am always on standby, waiting for any instructions from Mr. Jefferson as well as nning his itinerary. I also have to keep a constant eye on any documents submitted by other departments and appraise them before getting Mr. Jefferson¡¯s signature. Since I have many tasks, I would always have to prioritize, but what I do is primarily to pave the way for my boss. If Mr. Jefferson isn¡¯t leaving the country, what would I even do there?¡± Debbie¡¯s words were prim and her message clear, and Irene patiently listened and waited until she was finished. ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re mainly worried you have nothing to do over there?¡± ¡°Yes, that would be the case if Mr. Jefferson isn¡¯t there.¡± Irene nodded and smiled. ¡°What if I offered you a different position?¡± Debbie¡¯s face fell immediately. ¡°No, I can¡¯t,¡± she promptly said without hesitation. Irene was not surprised by her reaction, and kept smiling faintly. ¡°Why not?¡± ¡°I¡¯m used to this job-I¡¯m worried of criticism if I fall short, and that I¡¯d be a liability to Mr. Jefferson¡­ ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that. I¡¯ll make the necessary arrangements,¡± Irene simply said. Debbie clenched her fingers. ¡°Is that what Mr. Jefferson wants?¡± ¡°It¡¯s what I want,¡± Irene admitted. ¡°He won¡¯t agree to this.¡± This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. ¡°He left this matter in my hands.¡± Debbie was left speechless at that. ¡°So, will you be going?¡± Irene asked then. Debbie lowered her head in thought. If she left right now, she would keep her position. If she insisted on staying, Irene might really make her switch jobs. When that happens, she would not be able to see Isaac anywhere. That being said, Franconia was their new base-their new battlefield-and Isaac would be heading there eventually anyway. Holding back her grief and frustrations, she said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go.¡± Irene kept smiling. ¡°Very well. I hope it will be soon, too-how about tomorrow?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Debbie nodded. Irene then checked the time. ¡°Oh, it¡¯ste now. I should be going.¡± As Debbie escorted her out, Stan quickly came up to Irene, smiling awkwardly. He had been very worried as he waited outside, afraid that things would get hostile. Even Isaac himself had called to ask how things were going. When he told Isaac that he was not in the room with them, however, Isaac snapped, ¡°You¡¯re useless! I had you follow Irene so that I could have an ear on what they¡¯re saying¡­ But you¡¯re not even in the room?!¡± Meanwhile, when Irene and him finally got in his car, he asked, ¡°So? How did it go? Was there a fight?¡± Irene really wanted to roll her eyes at him, but simply snorted. ¡°A fight? We¡¯re civilized people here-or maybe you were wishing for that to happen?¡± ¡°Of course not!¡± Stan quickly shed an apologetic smile. ¡°I was just worried you¡¯d get hurt, since Mr. Jefferson wanted me toe with you so that I can protect you. I wouldn¡¯t be able to defend myself if you really got hurt.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Irene was skeptical. ¡°Of course. Would I lie to you?¡± Stan replied. ¡°Anyway, serious question: did Debbie say yes?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± Irene said quietly-it was still a headache to have a woman like Debbie around Isaac. It was not over even if Debbie agreed to head to Franconia-she would always lust after Isaac as long as she remained his secretary. The Runaway Groom Chapter 301 The Runaway Groom Chapter 301 Chapter 301 Both Debbie and Spencer understood each other tacitly after their conversation! Stan was curious. ¡°How did you convince her anyway?¡± Irene was not in the mood to answer, however. ¡°Do you really have to gossip so much?¡± Stan chuckled-he was certainly eager to find out, but her response made it clear that she did not want to tell, so he should not ask. Soon, they returned to the hospital, and Irene headed inside. ¡°Mom, look at this.¡± Quincy was naturally scowling as well. ¡°I know Isaac and what he¡¯s capable of. There shouldn¡¯t be this. much loss¡­¡± ¡°Did he do this on purpose?¡±n was certainly surprised by the revtion that the seemingly vibrant and dominant exterior of Light Group hid an entity that was already at death¡¯s door. Quincy thought about it. ¡°I don¡¯t think so-maybe Isaac just wanted to hide it from the board.¡± ¡°That just means he took us for a ride! We went through so much only to get this crap!¡± Even so, Quincy told him to calm down. With all said and done, she was still happy-how could she not be? They did not fail, for her longtime wish to take over Light Group was finally fulfilled! ¡°It¡¯s only reasonable that we inherited his troubles after we took his ce. You¡¯d be disappointing me if you back down now,n.¡± Quincy thought then that Isaac must have deliberately positioned them in an awkward spot. She knew the man, and he must have set a trap, or he would not have left so quickly. It seemed that they were looking at the trap now-Quincy would actually be puzzled if he did nothing before leaving! However, it did not cross her mind that Isaac had simply staged those losses and had siphoned away thepany¡¯s capital instead. Being ignorant of that fact meant Quincy remained brimming with confidence. that they could turn things around and bring Light Group back on the right track, even trumping Isaac¡¯s achievements! From there onwards, she would basically lord over the Jeffersons, since Henry was already old, leaving Light Group under her son¡¯s rule. Under her assurance,n calmed down and thought Quincy was right. ¡°Sorry, Mom.¡± He apologized. ¡°I let my anger get the better of me.¡± Quincy pped him on the shoulder. ¡°I believe in you, son. You¡¯d never lose to Isaac-you¡¯re the best 1/2 Jefferson, and the right man to lead the family.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be helping you too,¡± she assured him, adding ton¡¯s confidence, his frustration from reading those damning reports now waning. ¡°Once we win this, bring Robin Lynd along when we host a banquet to celebrate,¡± Quincy then said. Quincy sighed. ¡°She¡¯s not my choice for a daughter-inw. I wish you¡¯d chosen someone from another dynasty so that they could back you up. However, I saw how loyal she was to you when the mess with the casino ship happened, and knowing that she¡¯s genuinely in love with you is reason enough for me to ept her.¡± Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. In the end, strategic marriages were a must for dynasties to strengthen alliances. That was the reason Quincy herself had pushed so hard to get Irene married to Isaac in the first ce. After all, be it in career or family background, Irene would be more trouble than she was worth to Isaac, which was why Quincy helped Lionel in getting Isaac to marry her. ¡°Thanks, Mom¡­ though it¡¯s still too soon to celebrate. I need to get a handle on the situation as soon as possible,¡±n pointed out. Quincy agreed. ¡°Call for a meeting with all heads of departments. That should make things quicker.¡± She was naturally a little buoyed now that they controlled Light Group, and eager to flex her authority soon. ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go with that.¡± With that,n had his assistant send word for everyone to convene¡­ only to find out that the financial losses were just the tip of the iceberg! The Runaway Groom Chapter 302 The Runaway Groom Chapter 302 Chapter 302 Any new leader tends to flex his newfound authority, andn was certainly doing that during his first. meeting with his key personnel! Every head of department was sitting with clenched buttocks, afraid to make a sound. However, they were just wary ofn since they were not familiar with him-with Isaac, they were earnestly reverent instead. Still,n was confident after his recent promotion. ¡°Starting with Finance, everyone will report any noteworthy events as well as department objectives over thest six months,¡± he said proudly and formally from the chairing seat. However, his confidence proved a little excessive, as the Head of Finance rose to his feet and gave a lengthy ount of everything the department saw through over thest six months. The long and short of it was that there was no ie, only investments. ¡°Here¡¯s everything on the projects and investments we oversaw in that timeframe,¡± he said as he handed a thick document folder ton, who was scowling now. The thick folder itself was a sign that the financial department had been overseeing many projects and investments, but none of them were worthwhile. Since only billion dor projects or investments required the board¡¯s approval, anything in that folder was below that threshold, meaning that it would escape the board¡¯s notice. After all, when Isaac brought thepany to new heights and raked in billions, they decided to hold blind faith in most of Isaac¡¯s decisions. That was why they never inspected anything, and never found out about the financial outflow and other projects! And now¡­ The rest of the reports from the other heads of department werergely the same: losses, halted projects, projects that require more capital¡­ There was no good news at all. Naturally,n called off the meeting ahead of schedule, and waited until everyone left and closed the doors behind them before bursting out, ¡°Isaac fucked us over!¡± Meanwhile, Quincy had been remaining in her seat, quiet for a while now. She knew that things would be bumpy, but never expected an apocalypse. ¡°Look,n-the board doesn¡¯t know about this, just as we should not let them find out under any circumstances. They¡¯d just point their finger at us, and we won¡¯t even have a chance to arque¡­ Ive thought about it, and right now, we need to secure a few convincing megaprojects in the meantime to keep their mouths shut.¡± Ian understood that too, but he had gotten weary after learning how bad things were currently. Nheless, Quincy encouraged him. ¡°Look-we¡¯re still managing many projects and businesses, so some of it has to be profitable. You¡¯re still young, and we have all the time we need. Don¡¯t give up just yet.¡± 1/2 Since they were both busy, their dinner with Robin had to wait. However, Robin herself was starting to get distracted becausen was not calling her or seeing her. When she tried to ask him out, he would turn her down-which nted the idea in her thatn was dumping him after taking over Light Group. As she was having an unhappy cup of coffee at a cafe, Mrs. Watson and Irene arrived as well. They were just done shopping at the nearby mall and came for a drink, running into Robin by sheer coincidence. Irene saw that she appeared downtrodden and lethargic, even starting to lose weight. 1 The Runaway Groom Chapter 303 The Runaway Groom Chapter 303 Episode 303 Irene was holding Tommy, and pretended not to see Robin as she went to sit with Mrs. Watson at a quiet spot near the window. Robin, however, remembered how she failed to humiliate Irenest time, and ended up being punished. with having to wipe the floor of the sportsplex over two days. It made her theughing stock of her department, and even her colleagues constantly reminded her of it. She very much wanted to resign, but she had also lost her dependency sincen was not seeing her. As such, she had to keep her job and bear with the contempt. On the other hand, Irene had lost everything, but it somehow still felt like she was mocking Robin. Before Irene knew it, Robin was already standing beside her table, growling, ¡°Don¡¯t get so smug, Irene Spencer. You were only lucky once-it won¡¯t happen again.¡± Irene was ying with Tommy, and slowly looked up when she heard Robin. Even so, she was exceedingly calm in contrast to Robin¡¯s clear irritation. ¡°I don¡¯t know if things will get bad for me, but I do know that you¡¯re having a terrible time-you wouldn¡¯t be sulking otherwise.¡± ¡°What¡­¡± Robin¡¯s face darkened right then. ¡°What are you getting so smug about? Your lover was basically kicked out of Light Group. Not that morous now are you, Mrs. Jefferson?¡± ¡°Even if he was, he didn¡¯t dump me. I don¡¯t have to go hungry, bodyguards escort me everywhere I go, and I still have chauffeurs and servants. Even if Isaac is not CEO of Light Group, he¡¯s still able to see to my needs and afford me a life of luxury. On the other hand, it¡¯s obvious that life is hard for you, seeing how much weight you¡¯ve lost.¡± Irene never liked to brag or be nasty, but she knew that her words would have a devastating effect on Robin. N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner. She had been listening to Stan and Isaac¡¯s conversations, and was made aware thatn was busy working on Light Group. As a recently appointed CEO, he needed results to gain everyone¡¯s loyalty. Add that to the terrible look on Robin¡¯s face, Irene could naturally tell that she was at odds withn, and so retorted against Robin in a way that Irene knew would sting her. And that was exactly what happened. Unable to retort or do anything to Irene at all, Robin snarled, ¡°Don¡¯t get so full of yourself!¡± Irene smiled, unaffected. ¡°I¡¯m not, though you should be more self-aware, Ms. Lynd.¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t over!¡± Robin snapped, and stormed off. Mrs. Watson was pursing her lips disapprovingly. ¡°Who is she? How could she be so rude? She acts just like a fishwife even with that pretty face.¡± ¡°That¡¯s Robin Lynd. She¡¯sn Jefferson¡¯s girlfriend,¡± Irene replied. ¡°Who knows? One day they might marry, and we would be cousins.¡± Naturally, ¡®cousin¡¯ was a jibe-after everything that had happened, the Jeffersons were no longer family to her or Isaac. Mrs. Watson understood, and did not ask more. She always knew her ce, and was privy to much information. As such, she never spoke or asked out of turn, or exposed the private affairs of others. ¡°Alright, I think we should go now.¡± Irene rose to her feet then. Mrs. Watson followed. ¡°I can carry Tommy, ma¡¯am. You must be tired after carrying him for so long.¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Irene smiled-she had gone through so much to finally carry her baby in her arms, and would not ask for more. Once they returned to the mansion, Mrs. Watson and Jimmy unloaded everything they bought and carried. it inside the house, and Mrs. Watson would put everything in the right ce after. Meanwhile, Irene carried Tommy and was going back to their room when he heard Isaac¡¯s voice from his study. ¡°What?!¡± He sounded surprised. Stan was hanging his head and saying, ¡°It should be Kathy York.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 304 The Runaway Groom Chapter 304 Chapter 304 Isaac asked, ¡°Why her?¡± ¡°She¡¯s stupid and easy to manipte,¡± Stan replied. ¡°She¡¯s not chaste anyway, and it spares us from having to choose a new person.¡± Isaac stared at him but stayed silent-Stan took it for a silent approval. In reality, Stan only did that because he hade to understand that Isaac did not care about Kathy at all. From his point of view, there were just two reasons why Isaac had not kicked Kathy to the curb-the first was that she had saved Isaac¡¯s life before, and he could not be too harsh on her despite his indifference. The second was that she was still useful to them. Still, that made Stan think-why the difference in treatment between Kathy and Irene? Both of them had saved Isaac¡¯s life, and yet one one was treated like a tool, while the other was being pampered to kingdome. Seeing that certainly left Stan clicking his tongue. Truly, it hurt to see the contrast! ¡°How are things going on over there?¡± Isaac asked just then, seemingly not interested in discussing Kathy further. Stan had naturally been keeping an eye on Light Group. They had eyes and ears everywhere-it was certainly easy to embed their own people amongst their ranks after they managed thepany for years. ¡°Bothn Jefferson and Quincy Moore are trying their damndest to save Light Group and looking for any viable projects right now. They have to rally everyone sincen just became CEO, and his position would be shaky without anything persuasive. Quincy is staying with him whenever she can, and has no time for Greg Jefferson. This is exactly the moment he needs a more understanding femalepanion.¡± Stan was being vague at thest part, but Isaac understood-they were just talking about Kathy, and they were now prepared to send her his way. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Kathy was young and beautiful. With Quincy busy at Light Group and having no time to care about Greg. this was the right time to sneak someone in. After all, causing rifts between family members always inevitably breaks that family apart. Right now, it was all going ording to Isaac¡¯s n, with everything falling in line like dominos. ¡°Got it. Keep an eye on their movements, and report immediately if anythinges up,¡± Isaac said. ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Stan said. ¡°I¡¯ll be going now.¡± Even before he left the study, Irene had already returned to her room, putting Tommy to bed as shey beside him. Fiddling with his baby, she said, ¡°Your daddy is quite the womanizer, isn¡¯t he? First Debbie, and now Kathy-it¡¯s like there¡¯s no end to them. Your poor mommy has to take care of you, while fending. them off at the same time¡­¡± Isaac had been discharged a few days ago, since he had his doctor¡¯s permission to rest at home. His injuries had since scabbed, and he would make a full recovery soon enough. Ricky had been discharged and on the road of recovery as well, thanks to Sheryl¡¯s care. He had been sulking for a while after Samantha¡¯s funeral, but he had improved since, and resumed working despite his injury. Irene did not try to talk him out of it, since Ricky needed to pull himself together, and his career was his emotional pir right now. ¡°Boo¡­ Ya¡­¡± Tommy¡¯s little round eyes that were akin to ck grapes were fixed on Irene, his pink lips yapping gibberish as if understanding that Irene was talking to him, and hence mustering a response. Irene¡¯s gaze was utterly tender as she watched her baby, and her heart overflowed with warmth-any trouble that had been in her heart faded just from looking at Tommy. ¡°You¡¯re saying yes, right? That I should fend them off?¡± she asked lovingly, and gently pinched him on the cheeks. Tommy giggled from amusement, but that was when Isaac suddenly asked, ¡°Fend who off?¡± He had appeared in the room without her knowing it, and she almost jumped in surprise. Irene frowned. ¡°You almost gave me a heart attack.¡± Meanwhile, Isaac arched his back and scooped Tommy up in his arms. ¡°It¡¯s not my fault. You were so busy talking to Tommy you never noticed meing in.¡± Tommy always liked being carried, and his little limbs were iling as he babbled. ¡°Mama¡­¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 305 The Runaway Groom Chapter 305 Chapter 305 Irene smiled. ¡°My baby can say ¡®mommy¡¯ now.¡± Isaac shot her a look, and instructed their son indignantly. ¡°Say ¡®daddy.¡± ¡°Mama¡­¡± ¡°Da¡­Da.¡± ¡°Mah¡­ Mah¡­¡± Isaac looked like he would keep going, and Irene could not bear to look-Tommy was just mouthing some sybles that sounded like ¡®mommy¡¯ and not actually saying it. How would he ever say ¡®daddy¡¯? Taking Tommy off Isaac¡¯s arms, she said, ¡°Time for your milk, baby.¡± With that, she went looking for Mrs. Watson, leaving Isaac alone and speechless. However, the more she was trying to cold-shoulder him, the more he wanted to stay with her. Following her downstairs, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll carry Tommy. You can get the milk.¡± Irene quickly said, ¡°Mrs. Watson can do it.¡± Isaac was once again speechless. Did he offend her somehow? Mrs. Watson hid a smile as she watched them, and took Tommy off Irene¡¯s arms. ¡°I can feed Tommy. He¡¯s going to sleep soon anyway.¡± Irene sighed, and returned inside their room, while Isaac followed and closed the door behind him. ¡°I heard you talking about Kathy?¡± Irene asked directly. Isaac stared at her for a while,ing to a realization. She was pouting because of Kathy? He could not help feeling amused just then, no longer flustered when he realized what was bugging her. Sitting on the bed and lounging against the wall, he folded his legs elegantly while studying her from head to toe, which gave Irene the creeps. ¡°W-What¡¯s that look for?¡± ¡°You¡¯ve gotten fatter recently, don¡¯t you think?¡± Isaac said rather seriously. Irene was speechless, and wanted nothing less to scream at him that he was fat-and his whole family. too! Still, he soon smiled. ¡°Come, let me grope around a little to see who you are.¡± Speechless once more, Irene wondered if he was out of his mind! She turned, ready to leave because she had no idea what nonsense woulde out of his mouth next. However, as soon as she moved, he caught her by the wrist, and pulled him firmly into his warm embrace. before she could react. Keeping her tightly under his embrace, he asked softly, ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going? Hmm?¡± Irene struggled definitely, but it only made himugh alluringly. ¡°You¡¯re so cute when you¡¯re jealous.¡± 1/2 Irene was speechless. Her? Jealous?! Absolutely not! ¡°I¡¯m not,¡± she growled. Isaac mused to himself for a while, and then said, ¡°Well, since you¡¯re being so understanding, I guess I should see Kathy since she¡¯s been helping me a lottely-¡± This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. ¡°Stop it!¡± Irene had turned around, wrapping her arms around his neck before he could finish, warning him, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare.¡± Isaac chuckled. ¡°What if I do?¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 306 The Runaway Groom Chapter 306 Chapter 306 Irene was left speechless for quite a while before finally saying viciously, ¡°I¡¯ll break your legs.¡± Isaac brushed his cheek against hers, chuckling. ¡°Could you bear to hurt me so?¡± Irene went further. ¡°That¡¯s not all. If you really cheat on me, I¡¯ll break your legs, and then use your money to be the sugar mommy for some young ¡®uns¡­¡± This time, it was Isaac who was left speechless. ¡°That¡¯s going too far.¡± Using his own money while cucking him?! Irene reared her chin at him. ¡°Yeah. So go on, cheat on me, and I¡¯ll make you the greatest cuck ever-¡± ¡°But none of them is as good looking as I am,¡± he growled, pinning her underneath himself on the bed. Irene tried to get away from his kisses since it tickled, shoving him. ¡°The sun is still up-¡± ¡°Yep,¡± Isaac answered distractedly, but was not inclined to get off her, even undressing her right then. Irene panicked and gave in right then, ¡°Fine, my bad. I won¡¯t hook up with other men. You¡¯re the only one. for me¡­¡± Isaac leaned in to gently peck her on the lips. ¡°Me too.¡± Irene then became serious. ¡°So, about Kathy York¡­¡± Isaac¡¯s expression stiffened. There was just no end to this! Why did she always have to talk about that woman?! What a killjoy! He sighed, but he knew that she was not letting it go if he did not offer an exnation, and so told her about his n. Irene stayed silent after a long while after hearing Isaac¡¯s story, and said, ¡°You¡¯re so cunning, Isaac Jefferson.¡± Causing rifts between married couples, using people perfectly¡­ With Quincy nowpletely focused at work, Greg would be feeling lonely. Sending a woman to him would certainly drive a wedge between him and Quincy! Once a married couple starts fighting, the entire family would start to fall apart, and Quincy would be overwhelmed since she would have to worry about Light Group. Should she fail to calmly think things through, things could get nasty. Even if she had always been starting, this could get the better of her. Still, Irene felt no sympathy-Isaac¡¯s enemies were hers, and she also understood that if Isaac was safe, she and her son would be protected. Leaning on Isaac¡¯s chest, she said, ¡°I actually feel guilty that I can¡¯t help you at all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not true. You helped me take care of Tommy and handled Debbie.¡± Isaac mentioned Debbie on purpose, and that left Isaac bristling right then. ¡°Did I even have to be bothered if you weren¡¯t so lucky with women?¡± She shot him a re. Isaac liked that about her, and his smile broadened. Bzzt- Irene¡¯s phone started ringing on the desk, and she picked it up. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°Hello. Is this Ms. Spencer?¡± ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°We¡¯re calling to inform you that your resume has passed our initial screening. You maye forward for an interview at 8 a.m. tomorrow if you¡¯re free.¡± ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll be there,¡± Irene replied excitedly. She had submitted her resume to many hospitals, and this was the first one to finally respond. Though she should be helping Isaac, she did not want to give up on her career either. Moreover, she had been idling for too long, and that was no good for a doctor-she should start working again. Isaac reached out to brush a lock of her hair behind her ear, quietly saying, ¡°Just do what you want to.¡± After all, his ns did not require a woman to sacrifice her career. His support warmed Irene¡¯s heart. ¡°Thank you.¡± He gathered her into his arms. ¡°We¡¯re married.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 307 The Runaway Groom Chapter 307 Chapter 307 They were married, and it was reasonable that they gave each other their blessings, instead of having one of them make sacrifices. Irene then mischievously fiddled with his cor. Isaac was speechless for a moment before he caught her hand. ¡°I thought you¡¯re reluctant since the sun. is still up.¡± Irene rolled her eyes. ¡°What do you think I¡¯m doing? I¡¯m checking your injuries.¡± He had such a dirty mind! However, he could not restrain himself since she took the lead and took off his shirt-he was an ordinary. healthy man and certainly not impotent. Meanwhile, Greg was boozing at an exclusive nightclub. It had been days since he saw Quincy, since she was busy with work at Light Group with their sonn, and had no time to care about anything else. Feeling neglected, he came here to drink his sorrows away. His eyes seemed to ze over after a few sses of whiskey, and he smacked several hundred dor notes on the bar before wobbling up to his feet. However, someone came running straight into him at the door. He was already in a bad mood, and was going to curse at whichever blind fool it was who came crashing into him¡­ only to find a delicate, beautiful maiden in his arms. Kathy was shaking in fear even as he held her, and looked up at him with innocent eyes, sobbing miserably, ¡°Please, help me¡­ Someone is trying to abduct me.¡± ¡°What? Who?¡± Greg asked even as he quietly sneaked his arms around her-Kathy¡¯s vulnerable look had instantly left his masculine protectiveness ring. Quincy might be smart and always kept herself well-groomed, but aging was inevitable and much of her skin had gotten baggy. Kathy was naturally much different. She was young, exuberant, her skin tender to the touch¡­ and Greg. could feel his juices flowing as he smelled her sweet scent and felt her softness in his arms. At the same time, Kathy lifted a finger and pointed behind her, where several thuggish men were pointing at Kathy. ¡°You¡¯d better pay up, or it¡¯s the brothel for you.¡± Heading that it was just a debt, Greg asked, ¡°How much does she owe you?¡± ¡°Two grand,¡± one of them said. ¡°Two grand? And you have to chase her around for that much? You boys embarrass your fellow men,¡± Greg growled, whipping out his checkbook and writing the amount. ¡°Here. Take this and go-don¡¯t bother her again.¡± The thugs left right after they got the check-they were just paid actors anyway, pretending to be loan sharks pursuing Kathy for her debt. Having done what they carne to do, they naturally would not linger. ¡°Thank you for helping me, sir,¡± Kathy sobbed then. ¡°They were going to take me to the red light district. and my life would have been ruined¡­ I¡¯ll definitely pay you back when I can.¡± ¡°It¡¯s just spare change. It¡¯s fine.¡± Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org. ¡°No, I must make it up to you,¡± Kathy said coquettishly. ¡°You saved me. It¡¯s a must.¡± Greg could not help chuckling since he thought she was overstating matters. Smiling mysteriously, he asked, ¡°Well, how will you do that?¡± ¡°¡­¡± Kathy¡¯s voice trailed off, and hung her head. ¡°I don¡¯t have any money¡­¡± ¡°Look, I don¡¯t need you to pay me back, but if you feel like you owe me, how about having a couple of drinks with me?¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Kathy replied without hesitation, so Greg led her into the nightclub. He asked for a private booth seating, and told the attendants to send in bottles of wine. Although Greg used to be a good drinker, he became tipsy and his head felt like it was spinning after a couple of sses. Kathy helped him trudge along, asking, ¡°Where do you live? I can get you home¡­¡± Greg waved her off. ¡°No-no home.¡± He left home to go boozing because he was upset with Quincy, and was certainly not inclined to see her¡­ even though she would definitely not be home anyway. ¡°Well, I guess a hotel would do? You¡¯re really drunk, sir¡­¡± Kathy suggested even as she carefully held on to him, while acting kind and understanding. Greg licked his lips and suddenly grinned. ¡°Okay.¡± They soon arrived at a hotel! The Runaway Groom Chapter 308 The Runaway Groom Chapter 308 Chapter 308 As Kathy helped Greg out of the taxi, it was clear that the man was really drunk. Unlike before, the alcohol he had tonight seemed especially strong¡­ even stimting. Kathy had no money, so he had to pay for their room. Once inside, she made a show of helping him to bed, and said, ¡°You should rest, sir-¡± Grey suddenly caught her wrists. Feigning surprise at first, Kathy resisted just a little before yielding to his advances, and what happened soon after was simply water under the bridge. After the deed was done, Kathy was clutching at the sheets as she sat by the headboard, her eyes welling with miserable tears. Greg was left staring at the blood staining the sheets in silence for a long while, before breathing a lengthy sigh. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you were chaste¡­ but I¡¯ll definitely take responsibility for what I did.¡± Kathy appeared afraid, and was averting her eyes. However, the reason she bled was because Stan had her undergo a hymenorrhaphy at a hospital. He told her that Greg would love and cherish her all the more if he found out that she was a virgin, and that had certainly been proven true now. However, even as her fingers clenched on the bed sheets, all she felt was burning spite toward Quincy, who was the reason she lost her chastity in the first ce. That had also lost her Isaac¡¯s favor, and she therefore vowed to get back at Quincy-which was what she was doing right now, by stealing Quincy¡¯s husband! With that in mind, she started to put even more effort into her acting, ¡°I know¡­ You didn¡¯t know. I don¡¯t me you.¡± Kathy tried to get out of bed then, but fell into his arms again as if she was exhausted. Greg never felt such thrill-he seemed to regain his youthful exuberance right then, and felt like he could. go a few more rounds! After yet another round of ferocious lovemaking, Greg gave Kathy a generous sum of money. ¡°Get a ce to settle down, but make sure that it¡¯s somewhere hidden. You can get anything you want with the remaining.¡± Kathy tried to turn him down. ¡°I can¡¯t take your money¡­¡± ¡°Now, now. I¡¯m not just a stranger after all that, right?¡± Greg smiled. Although the wrinkles on his face were distinct, indicating his age, Greg was still tall and manly. Even though hecked youthfulness, he carried a mature sobriety that young men would not have. Kathy actually did not feel repulsed with him, though it was not as if she cared-right now, she only wanted payback. After Stan had brainwashed her, and seeing that Greg really cared that he had taken her first time, she knew that her n to exact revenge upon Quincy was on the right track. As she lowered her head shyly, Greg reached out to caress her cheek. ¡°How nice it is to be young, such smooth skin¡­¡± he murmured, and then asked, ¡°Do you have family? Is there anything I could help with?¡± They had just met, but he was now acting like a longtime acquaintance after sex. Stan had told Kathy to make her story as miserable as possible, so that Greg would love her all the more. ¡°My parents died very early,¡± she said, and it was no lie. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. ¡°I was just a child back then, and I had to live with my grandfather. We were poor, and we only had each other. That¡¯s why I had to borrow from those loan sharks when he was sick¡­ But I just borrowed a grand, and after just a week, they told me I have to pay a 700 dor interest! I couldn¡¯t get the money in time- that¡¯s why they were chasing me. They would have eaten me alive if I didn¡¯t run into you¡­¡± Greg patted her hand assuringly. ¡°Yeah. They would definitely have done their worst with someone as beautiful as you. Well, it¡¯s fortunate that you¡¯ve run into me-I¡¯ll take care of you now.¡± ¡°¡­B-But aren¡¯t you married?¡± Kathy asked gingerly. ¡°I don¡¯t want to cause trouble for your family¡­¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 309 The Runaway Groom Chapter 309 Chapter 309 The thought of Quincy left Greg grimacing. ¡°Oh, my wife is old now. It actually irks me whenever I see her face these days.¡± Kathy raised her brows, feeling cathartic inside just then! Even if Quincy had done her best to maintain her beauty, the way Greg called her ¡®old¡¯ made it clear that her ce in their family was just for show. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re such a bad man, sir. How could you talk about your own wife like that?¡± she purred as she threw herself into his arms. ¡°But do you think I¡¯m prettier?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Greg answered with no hesitation. In reality, Quincy was far prettier than Kathy in her youth, but age simply had not been kind to her. If she were not that beautiful, Greg would not have been a loyal husband, let alone have zero scandalous affairs. ¡°Anyway, it¡¯ste-I should go,¡± Greg said just then. While he was certainly reluctant to leave her, Greg nheless feared Quincy, and was worried that she would throw a fit if she found out. As such, he left his name card with her. ¡°Contact me if anythinges up.¡± Kathy nodded, and he got dressed and left. Later, Quincy happened to arrive home just as Greg did, and was frowning when she saw that he had not been home. ¡°Were you out for the night?¡± Greg averted his eyes in guilt. ¡°Yeah. Had a little too much to drink, and fell asleep at the bar.¡± Quincy sniffed at him and picked up the scent of alcohol. ¡°Go take a bath already.¡± She knew that she had been neglecting him for a while, and did not dwell on it-they basically spent half their lifetimes together, and Greg had never done anything to wrong her. ¡°Okay,¡± Greg replied, keeping his distance from her as he dashed toward the bathroom. Quincy stretched her back just then. It was fortunate that she andn had managed to secure a major project after spending days working hard at Light Group. Knowing that they would be meeting their potential partners tomorrow improved her mood considerably. She headed to the other bathroom and took a shower, cleaning herself up and putting on an enticing dress in their bedroom, where she waited for her husband. On the other hand, Greg was feeling guilty and did not dare to face her, so he dallied for a long while before getting out of the shower. By then, Quincy was getting impatient and snapped, ¡°What took you for so long? Trying to wash away some evidence?¡± She had just been joking, but it left Greg shaking and bristling in fear. Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. Still, he quicklyposed himself and pretended to be annoyed. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± 1/2 Quincy walked up to him then, and gave him a love tap on the chest. ¡°I¡¯m just joking. I¡¯m sorry that we haven¡¯t seen each other much for a few days now-you know I¡¯ve been busy working to keep Light Group together withn¡­¡± As she spoke, she was basically pushing herself on to Greg, and her hands started to reach for his groin. However, Greg had just gone a few rounds with Kathy. He certainly was not in the mood now, let alone able to get it up. Quincy sensed his disinterest, but ignored it because she was confident she could get him aroused anyway¡­ But got nothing. ¡°I think I¡¯ve been fatiguedtely,¡± Greg quickly exined. Quincy stared at him. ¡°What could you have been doing that got you fatigued? Do you even remember thest time we did it?¡± In fact, she hade home early to make it up to him, and it was in broad daylight too! Greg hastily came up with another excuse. ¡°I know¡­ I know you¡¯re tired for our family¡¯s sake too. I get it, and I don¡¯t want you to wear yourself out.¡± Quincy was skeptical. ¡°Really?¡± Would I lie to you? Well, I can swear it: if I¡¯m lying, I would lose my man-¡± ¡°Fine,¡± Quincy snapped, cutting him short. ¡°Why would I doubt you?¡± That was when Greg¡¯s phone started to ring, and he tensed up as he rushed to get it. However, Quincy beat him to it, and was looking at him sideways. ¡°Why do I feel that you¡¯re a little nervous?¡± ¡°Nervous? How so?¡± Greg asked, feigning nonchnce. Quincy nced at the screen. Seeing that it was an unknown caller, she answered it! The Runaway Groom Chapter 310 The Runaway Groom Chapter 310 Chapter 310 However, just as Quincy was about to speak, Greg snatched his phone away. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s my phone! What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Quincy froze for seconds and narrowed her eyes. Greg was clearly feeling guilty, but he had no choice but to do it-what if it was Kathy calling? He would be exposed! ¡°Give it to me right now.¡± Quincy held out a hand, looking dead serious just then. When Greg refused, she demanded, ¡°Are you cheating on me, Greg?¡± ¡°No way! Why would I do that? You¡¯re being paranoid-¡± Quincy snatched his phone out of his hands before he could finish, and answered the call. ¡°Hello?¡± ¡°Oh! Hey, Quincy! Is my brother from another mother over there?¡± Quincy recognized the voice-it was one of Greg¡¯s close friends, and she was acquainted with the man as well. Greg was relieved since he heard the voice too. Feeling confident right then, he snorted at Quincy. ¡°Why would you suspect me? Come on, you¡¯re embarrassing me in front of my friend here-what if he told the others you¡¯re getting strict with me? They won¡¯t ask me to hang out with them now¡­¡± Quincy smiled. ¡°Oh, I was just feeling concerned. Never doubted you for a moment.¡± With that, Greg took back his phone and left the room to answer it. Quincy sneaked closer to eavesdrop. It turns out that there was nothing suspicious. Even so, Greg was clearly being weird and fumbling to stop her from taking that call. Nheless, as Greg returned inside the room after taking the call, he said, ¡°You must be tired. I¡¯ve told the kitchen to make you some chicken soup, and you should take a nap after drinking it. Have you seen how weary you look?¡± Quincy was actually emotional that he still cared about her, and smiled. ¡°Well, it¡¯s for you and our son¡¯s sake. We¡¯re all Jeffersons, so there¡¯s no reason Andrew gets to keep everything for himself¡­ Either way, anything you say goes now.¡± Greg put a hand around her shoulder then. ¡°I know it¡¯s been difficult since you¡¯ve always been working hard for our family. That¡¯s why I would never do anything to wrong you-I mean, have I done. any such thing after so many years?¡± Greg had certainly been dutiful and proper-Quincy could not fault him at all as a husband over the years. Rubbing her temples, she decided just then that she had been paranoid. Her nerves had certainly been worn thin after toiling at Light Group for days now. ¡°Thank you for being so understanding, darling,¡± Quincy said as she leaned against his chest. Greg breathed a sigh of relief ever so discreetly, but kept smiling as he made Quincy lie down in bed. ¡°I can give you a massage to get you rxed.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Quincy said as she sprawled herself on the bed, but she was soon sound asleep. The next day, Quincy andn arrived at a fancy restaurant. They had an appointment to meet Eastdawn¡¯s representative there, but for one reason or the other, they werete to the meeting. Quincy was much moreposed than her son, and told him, ¡°Stay calm. I¡¯ve looked into the man- he¡¯s a man of his word and holds an upstanding reputation in his circles. He won¡¯t stand us up.¡± And even as she spoke, James Cross was already walking toward them. Both Quincy andn stood up in return. ¡°Good afternoon, Mr. Cross.¡± James was smiling and apologized humbly. ¡°Sorry to keep you waiting-something came up.¡± ¡°Oh, it¡¯s fine. We just arrived ourselves. Please have a seat.¡± Quincy smiled. This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. ¡°I see,¡± James said and took his seat, handing them a document and cutting to the chase. ¡°This is the mechanicalponent ourpany has developed for aircraft andrge vessels. It will see a 30% reduction in fuel consumption, and I¡¯m currently epting investments due to some recent capital stagnation. I wouldn¡¯t have done so otherwise, but I¡¯m sure you can tell that once thisponent hits the market, it will definitely develop into a monopoly. Otherwise you wouldn¡¯t have selected my company for a potential investment.¡± That was certainly true-that was what Quincy andn were aiming for. And they sorely needed something to solidify their authority over Light Group! The Runaway Groom Chapter 311 The Runaway Groom Chapter 311 Chapter 311 ¡°That is for sure,¡± Quincy said as she poured James a cup of tea. ¡°I¡¯m sure you also know Light Group¡¯s influence in the country too.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± James replied. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have agreed to this meeting otherwise. In fact, I don¡¯t mind telling. you that there¡¯s so many interested investors I couldn¡¯t afford to meet them all, so I¡¯ve picked the ones I see most potential in.¡± ¡°Apologies if we seemed prudent too, since we¡¯re not learned in this industry,¡± Quincy said as she scrounged through the document James brought them. The concept, development process, and other details about the mechanicalponent were summarized meticulously, and it appeared professionally done to Quincy andn even if they did not really understand it. Quincy was hesitant too. While the project shows potential, her ignorance on the matter made her worried about messing up, since research and development required a huge sum of capital. And they could not afford to invest that much money right now¡­ Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024. James, however, noticed their exchange and slowly said, ¡°I¡¯m sure there are concerns and partnerships like this shouldn¡¯t be forced. Don¡¯t worry, you can read that report as much as you want for now-I¡¯ll be meeting Mr. Underwood from Hundred Bangs after this.¡± As James appeared eager to leave and Quincy heard that there waspetition, she quickly said, ¡± Actually, since you¡¯re already here, why don¡¯t we have lunch together? You have to eat even if you¡¯re busy.¡± ¡°To be frank, Mr. Underwood is a friend,¡± James said feebly. ¡°I can¡¯t turn down an appointment, and it¡¯s obvious they want in on this too. Hundred Bangs is certainly worth considering too, so¡­ ¡°Mr. Cross.¡± As he poured James a ss of wine,n said, ¡°We¡¯re already here, and there¡¯s no reason to not stay for lunch. We can speak further on our potential investment, and you could take your time before heading off to meet Mr. Underwood. It¡¯s not much of a dy, right? I mean, if we came to an agreement before that, Hundred Bangs would just be a memory.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true, but if I may be honest, Light Group would be my first choice if Isaac Jefferson were still CEO. I¡¯m sure he could tell by now that this investment is a solid profit, but you¡­¡± James trailed off. Though he was clearly voicing his doubt, he hastily tried to exin, ¡°Well, it¡¯s not like I¡¯m questioning yourpetence, and I¡¯m certainly not familiar with you yet since you¡¯ve just taken office. So¡­.* ¡°So, you¡¯re saying you don¡¯t trust us?¡± Ian finished for him, slightly indignant. Was this manparing him to Isaac, even telling him that he was less than Isaac? With that,n promptly jumped at the deal. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll invest in your project. Hundred Bangs is just at retailwork anyway, and they¡¯d never understand what they¡¯re getting into.¡± James appeared hesitant. ¡°Are you agreeing to this already?¡± ¡°There¡¯s nothing to hesitate about,¡±n said. hapter311 Beside him, Quincy had resolved herself as well. If someone else were to beat them to this project because they hesitated, they would lose it entirely! ¡°Yes,¡± she said. ¡°Light Group is willing to invest in Eastdawn.¡± James made an awkward look even though he was celebrating inwardly. ¡°Are you not going to think further about this?¡± he asked, as if put on the spot. ¡°Mr. Underwood and I are. quite close¡­¡± ¡°We can sign an agreement right now,¡±n insisted. James had to give in then. ¡°¡­Very well.¡± They decided to do it after lunch. In the meantime, James¡¯s phone rang repeatedly with new requests for appointments, making it clear that he was in high demand. That in turn convincedn and Quincy that they had hit the jackpot. Their meetingsted three hours, and after signing the agreement, James took the document and said, Do visit mypany should you have time.¡± ¡°Of course,n replied. ¡°Contact me anytime you decide toe,¡± James said. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯ll be excusing myself now since I have other matters to attend to.¡± ¡°Allow me to escort you,¡±n said, and James happily epted. ¡°We¡¯re partners from now on,¡± James said as they headed for the exit. ¡°Yes. Here¡¯s to a productive partnership,¡± Ian agreed. ¡°Of course.¡± James smiled meaningfully. Getting inside and staring at the grand tower from his car for a while, James then whipped out his phone. to dial a number, and someone soon answered¡­ The Runaway Groom Chapter 312 The Runaway Groom Chapter 312 Chapter 312 James appeared solemn and respectful as he said, ¡°Mr. Jefferson? They¡¯ve signed it.¡± A deep voice spoke from the other end, ¡°Good. Stick to the n and keep reaching out. Don¡¯t let them. catch you before they inject their first batch of capital.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± James replied before hanging up and telling the chauffeur, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Meanwhile, Isaac had just put away his phone and turned around when a soft body threw herself into his arms. Irene then wrapped her arms around his neck-she had tied her hair into a ponytail and was dressed formally, her bright eyes twinkling as she smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯m going to the interview soon. Do you think I¡¯ll make it?¡± Isaac put his hands around her waist and made a pensive face, which left Irene frowning and pouting with. her pink lips. ¡°Don¡¯t you have faith in my skill?¡± ¡°You have skills?¡± Isaac asked in return. Irene was speechless for a moment, and stood on her toes to bite his lips, immediately leaving a row of bite marks. He smiled. ¡°Attempting mariticide, are we?¡± As he spoke, he reached underneath her blouse and pinched her smooth, delicate skin. It was at once aching and embarrassing, so Irene shot him a re. ¡°I¡¯m leaving, or I¡¯ll bete-shouldn¡¯t leave a bad impression with the interviewer for that.¡± With that, she escaped Isaac¡¯s arms, and he watched her leave with a faint smile. She was always able to make him happy. Outside, Irene told Jimmy the chauffeur where to go, and they quickly drove out. She had to take a deep breath-she was feeling a little nervous since she had not been working for a while. Since the previous night, she had been preparing and revising materials and information for the interview, and read a book on the way as well. Jimmy had always been a good driver who could keep the car steady, but he suddenly stopped. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Irene asked. ¡°There¡¯s someone in the way,¡± Jimmy said. Irene wound down the window to find a group of people encircling something. Jimmy said, ¡°I¡¯ll go take a look.¡± Irene nodded and kept reading, while Jimmy soon returned, ¡°Sorry, ma¡¯am, but I think someone passed out in the middle of the road.¡± Irene looked up, quickly put away her book and alighted. She squeezed her way through the crowd and found a rather old man lying on the ground ¡°Excuse me, please let me through. I¡¯m a doctor-please let me check on him. Also, try to make space for the patient so that he can breathe easier.¡± Everyone promptly cleared a path at her voice, and kept their distance as instructed. Irene first made sure that the man was lying t on his back and checked for breathing, and then his heartbeat for how he went unconscious. If it was something like a spinal problem, low glucose shock, or emotional distress, massaging the philtrum or the nerves under the feet could help. If it was a heart attack and resuscitation was needed, keeping the patient level could help direct blood. flow up to the brain, improving cirction and helping them get revived right then. Irene determined that it was thetter, and therefore applied the second method, and the patient slowly regained conscious thanks to her skill. Material ? N?velDrama.Org. The ambnce also arrived just then, and she helped him into the car. The onlookers also scattered, clearing the road and letting Irene¡¯s car through. However, the incident made herte for her interview, and she was not there when they called for her. As such, she stayed at the waiting room until everyone was gone, and asked the interviewer why she was not called after other interviewees had left. It was only then that she realized that she had beente. ¡°You¡¯re here for an interview, so you should at least be punctual. How are you going to be a good doctor if you don¡¯t know how to manage your time?¡± the interviewer said impassively and sarcastically. Irene exined, ¡°Actually, I ran into=¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 313 The Runaway Groom Chapter 313 Chapter 313 The interviewer shot her a look. ¡°No excuses. Now, leave.¡± But Irene was not about to give up on such a rare opportunity! ¡°Please give me a chance. I¡¯ve prepared for this interview-¡± ¡°That¡¯s your business. You¡¯rete and missed your chance, so you only have yourself to me. You won¡¯t bete if you care at all,¡± the interviewer growled impatiently. ¡°I would have to call security if you insist on staying.¡± Irene stopped in his tracks then even as disappointment caught her. She sighed she had a rare opportunity, and it went up in smoke. Stepping out of the hospital, she felt more or less dissatisfied-it would have been better if they had rejected her because she fell short of their standard, but she did not even get an interview¡­ And how was she going to pursue her dream if she could not even get herself hired as a doctor? The thought left her despondent! As she made up her mind to leave, she heard someone speaking and turned to look. It was the old man she had just saved earlier, and the interviewer and the old man saw her too. Irene was not inclined to speak with him-she had taken the Hippocratic Oath as a doctor, and helping him was no trouble. She turned around and continued ahead when the old man called out, ¡°Please wait a moment.¡± Irene turned and asked, ¡°Were you talking to me?¡± The old man walked up to her and asked, ¡°Did youe for a checkup?¡± ¡°No, I had an interview, but I waste, so¡­¡± Irene cast a helpless nce at the interviewer-it was his cold. indifference that denied her a chance. The interviewer frowned. ¡°You know her, chief?¡± The old man nodded. ¡°I had a heart attack and didn¡¯t have my aspirin. She saved me there.¡± Turning back toward Irene, the interviewer asked, ¡°Was that why you werete?¡± This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. Irene nodded, even as she felt surprised. Chief? Did that mean the old man was the hospital¡¯s chief? The interviewer grimaced just then. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you mention that?¡± Irene was speechless-he was so snappy and stopped her from exining herself! Did he even give her a chance?! The old man said then, ¡°Come to my office.¡± Seeing that she had a chance now, Irene naturally followed chipperly. The interviewer turned to look at her just then-he was in his forties, and he had chiseled facial features and a sharp re, which naturally discouraged anyone from holding his gaze. Irene kept her head down as well. It was the first time she felt utterly intimidated by another person. They soon arrived at the chief¡¯s hospital, and the old man told the interviewer, ¡°You can go about your business, Stephen. I¡¯m just having a few words with her.¡± With that, Stephen Carr quietly left, while the old man said, ¡°Please have a seat.¡± After Irene did so, the old man asked, ¡°Since you¡¯vee for an interview here, would you happen to know our specialty?¡± Irene certainly did since she had done her homework! The Runaway Groom Chapter 314 The Runaway Groom Chapter 314 Chapter 314 Irene¡¯s response was fluent. ¡°Cardiology. In fact, one of the cardiologists here at Melville Hospital is known to be a miracle worker, and has famously cured multiple patients with near-incurable heart conditions.¡± The old man rested his chin on his hands and grinned. ¡°Well, you¡¯ve met the man. What do you think about him?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve met him?¡± Irene considered it for a moment, before eximing in disbelief, ¡°Wait, do you mean Mr. Poker Face?!¡± She could not find a better description for the man-Stephen Carr was so aloof that he was basically devoid of humanity! ¡°Yes. That was Stephen Carr, Head of Cardiology and our miracle worker.¡± ¡°That¡¯s my idol?¡¯ Irene thought to herself then. ¡°Anyway, which position are you applying for?¡± the old man asked. ¡°Cardiology. I¡¯m willing to start as an intern,¡± Irene said-she was not experienced enough to jump straight into residency, but she was willing to start from the bottom. ¡°Do you have prior experience?¡± the old man asked them. It seemed that he was rather strict, and did not immediately hire her just because she saved him. In fact, Irene¡¯s resume had been quite simple, starting out as an intern after graduation for two years- one year less than most interns, since the doctor in charge of training her acknowledged her outstanding ability. After that, it was a year of residency. The first six months was routine training, while she was allowed in the room during surgeries for the next six months, before she went on to be an attending physician over a year. Most doctors her age would not be allowed to take the scalpel independently, and she was among the more gifted. The chief of Charity Hospital certainly admired her for that, along with her willingness to work hard. She had a promising future and could make a name for herself, but she ended up running into more than a few obstacles that kept her from working for a long while. Nheless, Irene told the old man about her experience. Given her youth, her resume was already an impressive one. ¡°Why cardiology?¡± the old man then asked. ¡°This isn¡¯t exactly the most rewarding department.¡± He was hinting that it would be a difficult speciality and required more skill than it was worth, but Irene simply smiled. ¡°It¡¯s not as hard as when I had to get my medical license.¡± The old manughed in turn¨Cit was certainly difficult, as students were tested on their knowledge on surgery, physiology, biochemistry and pharmacology, each of which were broad fields of knowledge of their own. To make things worse, there were cases where two or more of those domains were involved at once¡­ As an example, the use of a medicine is pharmacology, but physiological observations of side effects and the biochemicalpatibility with the individual would alsoe into question. Therefore, most students had to cram themselves and memorize entire textbooks, stressing their brains. to the extent of losing hair, asionally leading to baldness. Following exams at medical school, the final test to im a practicing license was certainly even harder. ¡°Honest, aren¡¯t we?¡± The old man smiled, mused to himself for a while, and then said, ¡°What do you think about an attachment with Stephen?¡± Irene was surprised, but she certainly was not reluctant to learn from such an illustrious doctor. This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org. ¡°However, you must know that from now on, what he says goes. He decides when you can be promoted to cardiac surgeon, and should you believe that you can ept that, I will speak with him and you can start tomorrow,¡± the old man told her. He was convinced that Irene was a good talent, and poor guidance would be a pitiful waste. Naturally, he also had his own personal interest in mind-Stephen Carr could get a little stringent, and putting a lively person like Irene with her might ease his poker face a little. ¡°Yes, I ept the offer,¡± Irene said without hesitation. She had been limited to minor surgeries before, and was only an assistant during Sheryl¡¯s surgery. It had always been her regret that she could not save her mother herself, but she had beencking in both experience and skill at the time for a major surgery. ¡°You may go now. Prepare yourself for tomorrow,¡± the old man said. Thrilled, Irene stood up and thanked the old man. ¡°I will do my best.¡± As the old man waved, she left his office, beaming¡­ only to run into a familiar poker face on the walkway, and her smile slowly faded. Stephen gave her a cool look and growled, ¡°What are you so pleased about? Getting hired through the back door is nothing to be proud about.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 315 The Runaway Groom Chapter 315 Chapter 315 Irene was speechless. How was this getting hired through the back door? Did she not impress the hospital chief with her own. expertise and earn the chance herself? Nheless, Stephen left with those words, leaving her alone and sulking. She felt conflicted at the thought that he would be the one instructing her from now on, but she did not. want to give up on her dreams either. Breathing a long sigh, she thought to herself that life was going to be hard from now on. Even so, she could take anything as long as she got to learn from him-once she could stand on her own, he would be a distant memory. Material ? N?velDrama.Org. Leaving the hospital and returning to the car, she told Jimmy the chauffeur, ¡°Let¡¯s go to the grocery store.¡± She was very pleased to have seeded in the interview, and wanted to cook something. She also thought that it was great that she chose to be a doctor-she knew what to cook for Isaac to help with his recovery. ¡°Of course,¡± Jimmy replied. They were soon stopping near a traffic light, when Irene spotted Greg and Kathy stepping out of a jewelry store. Greg actually had his hand around Kathy¡¯s waist-it seemed that Isaac¡¯s n had gone smoothly. If things were already going so smoothly between Greg and Kathy, Quincy would explode if she found out! Tut, tut¡­ Irene honestly thought then that Isaac was as cunning as he was evil. As the light turned green, Irene looked away as Jimmy drove off. They headed straight home after getting the groceries, but Isaac was out, and did note home even at dinnertime. The food was getting cold, so Irene told Mrs. Watson and Jimmy to eat with her-she had cooked a lot, and it would be wasted if they did not. Mrs. Watson cleaned up the table afterwards while Irene gave Tommy a bath. Maybe it was a very good bath, and Tommy quickly fell asleep after ying a little in his crib. Irene left the shower to find him sound asleep, picked him up toy him straight, and pulled his nket over him. She gave him a soft peck on his cheek, and it felt so soft she wanted to peck him more¡­ Bzzt- Her phone suddenly started to vibrate, and she picked it up. Worried that she had woken Tommy up, she stayed for a while and made sure he was not stirring before leaving the room to answer it. It was Lulu Adams, and Irene was quite surprised to find that she wasing over-she did not mention. it when they spoke just a couple days ago. ¡°When did you arrive? You could¡¯ve told me.¡± ¡°Just today. We should meet if you¡¯re free¡­¡± Irene could tell from her voice that something was up. ¡°Sure. Where?¡± Lulu was not sure, however, and she had been wandering alone in the streets. ¡°How about Spencer Mansion? I¡¯ll be there soon,¡± Irene suggested. ¡°Okay,¡± Lulu replied. Irene nced at Tommy after hanging up. The baby was still sound asleep, so she gently closed the door, got changed, and left, telling Mrs. Watson before she did, ¡°I have something to attend to, so I¡¯ll be out for a while. Keep an eye on Tommy and make sure he doesn¡¯t wake up, and if Isaaces home and asks, I¡¯ll be at Spencer Mansion.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Mrs. Watson replied, and Irene left. Arriving at Spencer Mansion, she found Sheryl talking to Lulu in the living room as she entered. ¡°It¡¯s late, Mom. Shouldn¡¯t you be in bed?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not even nine,¡± Sheryl countered. ¡°Nobody can fall asleep.¡± Irene then walked up to pull Lulu along. ¡°I need to have some girls¡¯ talk with Lulu. Can we?¡± Sheryl feigned exasperation and shot her a look. ¡°Don¡¯t let me stop you.¡± Irene smiled, and took Lulu to her old room. Once she closed the door, she turned toward Lulu and asked directly, ¡°Did something happen? I could tell from your voice that something is wrong.¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 316 The Runaway Groom Chapter 316 Episode 316 Lulu sat on her bed, silent for a long while. Irene waited quietly without urging her, until Lulu suddenly said, ¡°Zachary and I had a fight.¡± Irene was left stunned for seconds, before asking in disbelief, ¡°You two fought? Why?¡± ¡°His mother promised that she¡¯d agree to our rtionship if Zachary returned to his family business and imed leadership, right? He did, but his mother now insisted that I must give up on my career to be a full- time housewife if we are to get married. She said that I¡¯m supposed to care for and support Zachary, but I don¡¯t want to give up on my job.¡± ¡°Well, what did Zachary say?¡± Irene asked. Lulu scowled at the mention of Zachary. ¡°He said that he gave up his preferred career for my sake, and asked me why I can¡¯t sacrifice mine for him. But is our rtionship only sustained by our sacrifices?¡± Lulu certainly knew that she should sacrifice a little for him after what he did, but said, ¡°Look, Irene. I can make it up to him in any other way, but I would have nothing left if I gave up on my career. I mean¡­. This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. Irene knew why she felt insecure. Lulu came from a poor family, and she would be fully dependent on Zachary if she did not have a job. And if Zachary had a change of heart, she would have nothing. Irene understood her worries, and was herself unwilling to give up on her passion over family. Fortunately, Isaac was supportive, and she decided to be nicer to him. After all, not all partners could be understanding like him. ¡°But you¡¯re working in Sunny City. If you didn¡¯t resign, won¡¯t you be living apart even if Mrs. te agreed to you getting married to Zachary?¡± ¡°I can request for a transfer here,¡± Lulu replied, paused for a moment and asked, ¡°Do you think I should resign too?¡± Irene was simply giving her take on the situation and did not intend that, so she quickly shook her head. ¡°I think I¡¯d want to be independent as well even if I get married. At least I¡¯ll have my own career- I¡¯d feel insecure if I depended entirely on someone else.¡± ¡°Isaac has been good to you, hasn¡¯t he?¡± Lulu was actually envious that Isaac was powerful enough to not have to consider the opinions of others, but he still pampered Irene regardless. Zachary was a different case-he came from a dynasty with strained rtionships, and his parents did not like Lulu, causingplications on every turn.. Irene smiled. Isaac was definitely nice to her, but she also had concerns that she never mentioned to anyone. ¡°I¡¯m young, so this is probably our honeymoon period. Who knows what would happen years down the line?¡± ¡°Is he cheating on you already?¡± Lulu¡¯s eyes widened. Irene quickly shook her head. ¡°No! It¡¯s just that I¡¯m losing confidence. Do you know that there are many women around him? It¡¯s like another shows up soon after I chase one away.¡± ¡°There are women stalking him?¡± Lulu asked. ¡°I don¡¯t know about that, but there are some who are secretly in love with him.¡± Irene scowled when she remembered Debbie, and knew from the start that she would be difficult to get rid of. Lulu breathed a long sigh. ¡°I guess life is hard for you too.¡± Irene could not helpughing. ¡°What, did you think it was easy for me?¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Lulu asked in return. ¡°That¡¯s Isaac Jefferson we¡¯re talking about-he has the money and looks, and most importantly, he loves you. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s easy not to have a mother-inw harass you?¡± Irene was speechless for a moment, but decided that Lulu was right. ¡°I can talk to Zachary for you. There might be other options-¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s fine,¡± Lulu said, cutting her short. The Runaway Groom Chapter 317 The Runaway Groom Chapter 317 Chapter 317 Lulu appeared helpless. ¡°Look, I didn¡¯t tell you before, but the fight we had was really bad. He¡¯s really angry, and he¡¯s definitely on his mother¡¯s side about having me resign. I feel like he really wants me to be his full-time wife¡­ but this is the one choice that matters, isn¡¯t it? Either I give up my career to be with him, or keep my career and give up on him. Can¡¯t bake your cake and eat it.¡± Irene did not know what to say. ¡°Well, you have no family here and no ce to stay, so you can stay here. in my room.¡± Lulu smiled. ¡°Thank goodness I have you.¡± ¡°The feeling¡¯s mutual.¡± Irene smiled back. ¡°I won¡¯t know what to do with myself in Sunny City otherwise¡­ How about a little drink? It¡¯ll help you sleep.¡± ¡°No thanks.¡± Lulu shook her head-alcohol would only ease their frustration for a moment, but would not resolve the issue. ¡°Go home, Irene-you have a family now, so you shouldn¡¯t stay out the entire night. I need time alone to think about what I should do anyway.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene said, since Lulu just might decide what she wanted after calming down too.. ¡°Who knows? Zachary might stay loyal to you forever.¡± To Irene, since Zachary was willing to give up on his career as a doctor for Lulu¡¯s sake, he must love her to the bone anyway. Lulu smiled faintly but said nothing. As Irene headed downstairs, Sheryl was still in the living room. Seeing Irenee downstairs, she said, ¡± Bring Tommy here if you have the time, Irene. I miss him.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Irene replied. It was midnight when Irene returned home, and just after she changed and got in bed, the door swung open, and she looked up to find a figure entering. Sitting up, she asked, ¡°Where have you been?¡± ¡°Zachary called me,¡± Isaac replied, taking off his shirt and ready to take a shower. ¡°Be careful when you get wet. Don¡¯t hurt your back,¡± she told him. ¡°Okay,¡± he replied. ¡°Wait¡­¡± Irene suddenly said, frowning because she smelled alcohol. ¡°Were you drinking?¡± ¡°He¡¯s in a bad mood, so I had a couple of drinks with him,¡± Isaac chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m quite far from you though. -how did you smell it? Are you a dog?¡± Irene was speechless, and wanted to snap at him, ¡®You¡¯re the dog!¡± Instead, she said, ¡°Go take your shower already. I have questions.¡± This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Yeah,¡± he replied and headed into the shower. When he stepped out, Irene was waiting with the ointment for his back. As she applied it with a cotton. swab, she asked, ¡°What did Zachary tell you?¡± ¡°Just the usual grumblings,¡± Isaac tly replied. Irene frowned. ¡°Why do I have this feeling that you don¡¯t want to tell me?¡± ¡°Just not interested in talking about others with you.¡± ¡°Zachary is a good friend of yours, isn¡¯t he? Stan even told me that he quickly imed leadership over his family because you helped, even offering a lot of advice¡­¡± Isaac suddenly turned around, and Irene had to quickly get the cotton swab away from him. She shot him. a re. ¡°What are you doing? You almost knocked the swab off.¡± ¡°What do you think?¡± His voice was raspy and his gaze dark as he suddenly raised a foot, knocking trene down on the bed. ¡°Hey!¡± The Runaway Groom Chapter 318 The Runaway Groom Chapter 318 Chapter 318 Irene was startled by his sudden move, and she shoved at his foot in the next instant. ¡°What are you doing?! Get off me-I¡¯d get the ointment all over you.¡± Isaac reached out and took the swab out of her hands, throwing it on the table before pinning her down under himself. Irene turned, not to struggle but to find afortable position. ng! A loud noise suddenly echoed from the living room. ¡°What was that?!¡± Irene tensed up immediately, while Isaac frowned-seemingly unhappy with the sudden noise. Irene was still looking at him. ¡°Is there someone in the living room?¡± Isaac breathed a feeble sigh just then.. ¡°Is that Zachary?¡± It was a question, but she basically knew the answer. ¡°He¡¯s drunk,¡± Isaac exined. He could not leave him outside by himself, so he brought him home.. That was when they heard a grating voice as if a table was pushed along the floor, and then something. dropped and shattered loudly, followed by a scream. Irene quickly tightened up her loose dress and shoved Isaac. ¡°You should check on him.¡± Still, it was a while before Isaac finally got off her, and he scowled as he left the room. He turned on the lights in the living room to find Zachary on the floor, although he should be lying on the couch. He somehow moved an entire table, knocking a ss to the floor which shattered into pieces. Isaac frowned as he walked up to Zachary. ¡°Get up, Zachary te.¡± Zachary, however, was too drunk to respond. Meanwhile, Irene hade downstairs as well after dressing up properly, and sighed lengthily at the sight of the carnage. Lulu was hurting, and so was he¡­ Was this not just mutual torture? ¡°I¡¯ll make him a warm honey drink,¡± she said and headed to the fridge. rgh¡­¡± Zachary was suddenly retching. Isaac¡¯s brow furrowed, and he growled in disdain, ¡°Throw up on my floor, and you¡¯re out of the house.¡± While Zachary was left stupefied, Irene arrived with the honey drink and was just about to help Zachary up when Isaac pulled her aside. She shot him a look. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you? You won¡¯t just leave him like that, or you wouldn¡¯t have brought him home.¡± Isaac sees things differently, however-having his woman care for others, and a man at that, was absolutely out of the question. He took the drink off her hands and put it on the table. ¡°Go back to bed. Leave this to me.¡± Irene nced at the clock-it was certainlyte, and she should head to work earlier tomorrow since it was her first day.¡± So, she nodded and returned to the bedroom, only to remember that Isaac waspletely incapable of taking care of another person! This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. Was he going to throw Zachary outside? As such, she returned to the living room, only to find that Isaac had called in Jimmy, who helped Zachary off the floor and gave him the honey drink. Zachary was not exactlyplying. He was iling around, and repeating how much it hurts. Isaac stood nearby and growled coolly. ¡°That¡¯s your fault for boozing.¡± Zacahry snorted. ¡°I¡¯m hurting.¡± ¡°And do you feel better now?¡± Zachary said nothing, because he was just hurting inside at first-but he was now hurting physically too. When it rains, it pours! As dawn arrived the next morning, Irene woke up and found Zachary lying on the couch. She breathed a long sigh-she did not have time for this since she had to report herself at Melville Hospital, and left quickly after breakfast. The Runaway Groom Chapter 319 The Runaway Groom Chapter 319 Chapter 319 It was not going to be a typical day, as Light Group was prepared to invest their first batch of capital in Eastdawn! The initial investment was 80 million-an amount that Light Group could still afford at the moment. After the transfer,n Jefferson and James Cross shook hands. ¡°Here¡¯s to a beautiful partnership. Let¡¯s take our respectivepanies to new heights-may your component be unveiled to the world soon.¡± James chuckled. ¡°For sure. Once it hits the market, you shall be the biggest winner!¡± There was no question he had won big here. Material ? N?velDrama.Org. James sighed in front of him just then. ¡°Well, things are going to get awkward with my old friends now that we chose you.¡± Ian smiled and patted him on the back. ¡°I¡¯ll be your friend from now on.¡± ¡°Indeed.¡± James was watching him with a twinkle in his eye. It was almost eerie, butn did not care since he was too busy basking in the delight of securing the partnership. He is convinced that this investment was an assured sess, and the profits would soone rolling in. As he is in a good mood, he could afford to take a break to visit Robin Lynd. Nheless, she was not about to be nice since he only came to see her after a long while. ¡°I thought you¡¯d already forgotten about me.¡± ¡°You know I¡¯m busy after taking over Light Group,¡± Ian said, snaking his hands around her. ¡°Are you upset? Fine-just tell me what you want. I can buy it for you.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want a thing-I¡¯m happy just being with you.¡± Robin leaned into his arms. She was genuinely in love with him. ¡°By the way, my mom has epted you now. She even told me to bring you home for dinner before,¡± lan told her. ¡°Really?¡± Robin eximed chipperly. ¡°Of course. Why would I lie?¡±n said. ¡°How about tonight?¡± ¡°Oh, but I¡¯m not prepared at all¡­¡± Robin was suddenly nervous. ¡°I can¡¯t go empty-handed, can I? I should at least bring something.¡± ¡°They don¡¯t need anything anyway.¡±n countered. ¡°That won¡¯t do. Going empty-handed is really impolite.¡± Robin really cared about making an impression, son had to y along. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s go get something now, shall we?¡± Robin nodded, and they drove to arge mali. Quincy was a fan of gems but also picky, and since Robin did not actually have much money, it was lan. himself paying for the gift. It took a long while for them to find the right gift, and when they stepped out,n saw a car he recognized. It belonged to his father Greg, but just as he was about to go up and greet him, a woman carrying shopping bags of various sizes walked past him and headed straight inside. Who was that woman? Why was she getting into his father¡¯s car? ¡°Wait here,¡± he growled, letting go of Robin¡¯s hand just then and heading straight to the car. He opened the door to find the woman was with Greg, and glowered right then. ¡°Dad, who is she? Why is she in your car?!¡± Greg was surprised thatn caught him, but warned, ¡°Pretend you saw nothing. And don¡¯t tell your mom.¡±n was left bristling right then! The Runaway Groom Chapter 320 The Runaway Groom Chapter 320 Chapter 320 Feeling humiliated just then,n snapped, ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing. Dad?!¡± Having an affair at his age? Quincy would flip out if she knew! In fact,n himself was already losing his mind! Still, he worked hard to cool his temper and stopped himself from getting in the car to drag the woman out. ¡°Tell her to get out of your car right now!¡± Kathy York was startled right then, and promptly threw herself into Greg¡¯s arms. Greg naturally felt protective seeing that his sweetheart was frightened, and shot his son a re, ¡°Don¡¯t think you can order me around just because you became CEO of Light Group. I¡¯m still your father-and you don¡¯t ever get to talk to me like that!¡± With that, he shut the door inn¡¯s face and snapped at his chauffeur to drive, leavingn shaking with rage. Robin walked up to him gingerly, and tried to assure him, ¡°Maybe it¡¯s not what you think¡­¡± ¡°What, does it only count if I catch them in bed?!¡±n was wheezing, feeling down in the dumps just then.¡± I think you should go. I don¡¯t think I can take you home today.¡± ¡°Okay¡­¡± Robin murmured. This is the property of N?-velDrama.Org. She was certainly reluctant since it was a rare chance for her to meetn¡¯s parents. Even so, her feelings did not matter after what just happened, and had to ept that as reality. As forn, he headed straight home¡­ but could not say a word when he actually saw Quincy. He knew his mother¡¯s temper, and that if she found out, she would definitely go to war with Greg. And at the moment, they had yet to rein in Light Group back on the right track, and he would rather not have family troubles on his te too. Light Group wasn¡¯s priority¡­ but as things go, the more you care, the more you would lose it. Just two weeks after the 80 million dor investment into James Cross¡¯s Eastdawn, the man called him, saying. ¡°Sorry,n, but we ran into a snag. We¡¯re going to need more capital.¡± ¡°I thought you said the development is in its final phase?¡± he asked with an edge in his voice. ¡°Are you saying that the 80 million I injected isn¡¯t enough? What happened?¡± ¡°Yes, we wouldn¡¯t have needed a second injection if things had gone smoothly, but there¡¯s an issue now. It¡¯s alright if you¡¯re not interested-we have other interested parties..¡± ¡°We have an agreement,¡±n growled, cutting him short. ¡°It¡¯s stated in ck-and-white that we¡¯re your sole partners. You¡¯re breaching the agreement if you find someone else!¡± ¡°Yes, but mypany is this close! Am i supposed to just give up on all the capital spent on the development instead of finding solutions? James became harsh and direct as well. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to say it, but you definitely don¡¯t have Isaac Jefferson¡¯s mettle. Do you remember how everyone only had praise for him back when he was in charge? He¡¯s even famous for throwing money into risky projects-¡± ¡°What is that supposed to mean?¡±n was already upset, and the mention of Isaac only worsened his mood. ¡°Are you calling me stingy?¡± James, however, was not afraid to provoke him with an agreement signed. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re stingy,¡± he said shortly. ¡°Yourpany is worth billions, and we¡¯re just asking for 150 million, but you¡¯re already getting cagey. How is that not stingy?¡± Ian frowned. ¡°What was that? 150 million?¡± ¡°Uh-huh.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve already given you 80 million!¡±n was left heaving, and it felt like his chest was burning from sheer frustration. ¡°And you¡¯re asking for 150 million dors not a few dayster? What am I, a money-printing machine?!¡± Nothing was going his way at all! ¡°Development like this has always been a money burner-¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t even a money burner! You¡¯re basically using dor bills like toilet paper!¡± Nheless,n took a deep breath to calm himself before continuing. ¡°Fine, let¡¯s cut the crap. Give me a precise amount and make sure there won¡¯t be more issues this time, and I¡¯ll give you the capital. Also, do you actually have an ETA for the project¡¯spletion?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve already told you: we¡¯re in the final phase. It¡¯s just an ident and no one wanted that. Also, I know that you¡¯ve poured a lot of money into us, but you should already have known that I¡¯ve bet my bottom dor on this. I won¡¯t lie to you-I¡¯ve spent over a billion on this, and failure means bankruptcy for me. That¡¯s why I would never let this fail, and I apologize if I have been rude. It¡¯s just that a setback when we¡¯re so close hurts me too, and I should have chosen my words better as well. I hope I have your understanding¡­¡± Also, James had invested over a billion, while he only invested 80 million. Ian was still going to make a killing even if he invested more, since he would get half the profits once theponent was finished and marketed. ¡°How much do you need?¡±n asked. The Runaway Groom Chapter 321 The Runaway Groom Chapter 321 Chapter 321 James told him, ¡°200 millions.¡± That was a lot of money. James then added, ¡°I know it¡¯s just pocket change to Light Group.¡± Nheless, he could not afford to tell James that he did not have the money for appearance¡¯s sake. There would be more trouble if he did, and word of that somehow reached Light Group¡¯s board members. ¡°Give me some time.¡± He had an idea-there were several Light Group projects that were still underway, and he could divert the capital from those projects to Eastdawn. He certainly had no intention of giving up halfway on Eastdawn since this was his first project. Moreover, they had an agreement, and the second injection was basically agreed upon. Hence, he began to make the calls to sell off their projects. Fortunately, they soon found a buyer-Remy, a foreignpany, was willing to acquire the projects, while paying them the full amount for it. To ensure that they were not trading with a shellpany or getting swindled,n even did some research online. It appeared that thepany was registered in Franconia, and though it was just founded three years ago, it had already garnered significant fame. It seemed that those in the business had heard about their mysterious CEO, who was known for his exceptional insight-any projects he invested in always turned out to be money-makers, with awork project he invested in two years ago now raking in tremendous profits every year since. Thepany¡¯s revenue was going nowhere but up, and they were starting to branch out into other industries, including showbiz, lifestyle products,working, multimedia technology, medicine¡­ each of which were bringing in significant revenue as well. Once Remy wired the 300 million dor payment over,n transferred the 200 million that James had asked for to the man immediately. The instant that was done,n gave him a call. ¡°No more setbacks.¡± James nced at Isaac who was sitting behind his desk, and said, ¡°Yes, you have nothing to worry about. This will be thest.¡± He added emphasis on thest part and hung up. Turning back to Isaac, he said, ¡°That wasn.¡± Isaac had actually heard it, but he did not appear pleased. Instead, he remained cid and indifferent, leaning back on his chair and appearing rxed. Everything was going ording to n. He knew better than everyone on whatever Light Group had left, and aftern had sold off the two projects that could have sustained them, he had cut off any chance of his survival. ¡°Continue as nned. I¡¯ll have Stan Hill head to the headquarters soon,¡± he said. ¡°Of course. It¡¯s the final phase anyway,¡± James replied. And the final phase would squeezen dry, taking away any moveable assets he had left. At the same time, Isaac narrowed his eyes. Perhaps it was time to make Quincy aware of Kathy¡¯s presence. ¡°You can handle that,¡± he told James, his eyes darkening like a bottomless abyss just then. ¡°Yes, Mr. Jefferson,¡± James answered and left the study, inadvertently running into someone who was coming in! The Runaway Groom Chapter 322 The Runaway Groom Chapter 322 Chapter 322 ¡°Sorry.¡± James quickly apologized, and when he looked up to see that it was Irene, he quickly greeted her, ¡°Oh-hello, Mrs. Jefferson.¡± Irene was left confused, since she had no idea who he was. How did he know who she was, even addressing her as ¡®Mrs. Jefferson¡¯? He seemed older than her, too¡­. ¡°And you are¡­?¡± ¡°James Cross,¡± he replied. ¡°I¡¯ve been stationed overseas before this, and just returned to the country.¡± He was an unfamiliar face-in fact, Isaac had asked him to return because not many would recognize him. He had been working at the Remy headquarters in Franconia since its founding, and actually outranked Stan. Naturally, he was superior to Stan in ability as well, or Isaac would not have left him in charge of the Remy headquarters. ¡°I was just having a short discussion with Mr. Jefferson, but I will get going now,¡± Remy added, unsure if Irene understood. All Irene knew was that it was business, and that he was just one of Isaac¡¯s key helpers whom he was acquainted with. Smiling politely, she said. ¡°I see. You should go about your business then.¡± James nodded and left.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. Soon after James left Isaac¡¯s mansion, Quincy received an email. Presuming it to be some official document, she clicked on it to find that it was footage of Greg in bed with a woman. The woman¡¯s face could not be seen, but the detail on Greg¡¯s face was clear, and it was obvious that they were joined at the hip. After being with him for so long. Quincy knew Greg from head to toe, and could see right away that it was him. It was too much for her, and she passed out right then. The servants had to take her to the hospital, but she stormed home immediately when she regained consciousness. Greg, whose conscience had been eating at him since his affair, had bought Quincy a diamond ne. to make amends! When he saw Quincye home, he grinned. ¡°Wanna guess what I got for you?¡± However, Quincy¡¯s hands had clenched into shaking fists at her sides. She knew that men could be fickle and would always prefer novelties. Still, after spending so many years with him, she hade to believe that Greg would not betray her-that he genuinely loved her, and that she did not have to scheme to retain his affection. After all, they spent most of their lives together. Only for this to happen! She was certainly repulsed-there was nothing more repulsive than a cheating husband! Meanwhile, Greg was still cheerfully bringing that exquisitely wrapped gift box to her when he finally saw that her cheeks were pale. ¡°Are you tired?¡± he asked in concern. ¡°You don¡¯t look too good. Why don¡¯t we go to the hospital-¡± Before he could finish, Quincy pped him across the face with every bit of strength she could muster! A thunderous smack seemed to echo in the room! Greg was left stunned for a moment, but soon his eyes turned red. ¡°What are you doing, Quincy?!¡± Did she just really hit his face?! A man¡¯s face is his pride-and Greg was certainly a prideful man! Nheless, Quincyughed icily. ¡°You know very well what you did!¡± Greg flinched in guilt, but quickly snapped, ¡°What are you talking about?! What did I do? I just bought you this ne-¡± ¡°To make up for cheating on me with some whore?!¡± Quincy was a proud woman but as she was now overwhelmed with pain and anguish, she burst into tears. ¡°I did everything, and sacrificed everything for this family, our son, and you! And you repaid me by having an affair?!¡± Raving, she grabbed Greg by the cor, unable to care how she looked just then as she demanded, ¡°How could you do this to me?!¡± Greg knew right then that his affair with Kathy was exposed. The Runaway Groom Chapter 323 The Runaway Groom Chapter 323 Episode 323 Even so, Greg remainedposed. ¡°I¡¯m just ying around¡­¡± ¡°ying around?¡± Quincy¡¯s face paled further. ¡°Maybe I should y around with other men, too!¡± Greg glowered. ¡°That¡¯s out of line. You just hit me but I did nothing. Did you think you could just p a man like that?¡± Quincy dropped to crouch just then, and she began to bawl hysterically. She was out of line? Pain, anguish and spite was overwhelming her-she wanted nothing less than to pick up a knife and shank Greg right then! On the other hand, Greg¡¯s patience was already gone. Moreover, Quincy looked horrid when she was in his face, and now that she was sobbing, he watched her while feeling no sympathy, but just cool disgust instead. Having no mood to coax her and knowing that it would not go well anyway, Greg simply let reality sink into her. ¡°Still crying at your age? Aren¡¯t you worriedn would see you like this when hees home? Also, you don¡¯t have to worry-I still want you and this family. I¡¯ll be back when I¡¯ve yed enough.¡± Quincyughed beside herself. He wasing back when he had had enough? What did he take her for?! ¡°You¡¯re actually concerned ifn knows? Your brazenness knows no bounds! Do you even care what our son would think of you if he knew?¡± Greg was naturally not worriedn knew anyway, and he told her as much. ¡°He knows.¡± ¡°W-What?!¡± Quincy was left clutching her chest. It felt as if something was stuck there, and she could not breathe! It was not just her husband¡­ Her own son betrayed her too?! Her face turned green, once again losing her breath and passing out. Greg was exasperated. He had been loyal his entire life, and had only had one affair! Did she have to overreact like this? Still, he did not abandon her. Seeing that she had stayed with him for over half their lives, he carried her, ready to take her to the hospital. Nheless, he ran inton, who had just returned, at the door. Seeing Quincy unconscious,n asked, ¡°What happened to Mom?¡± ¡°Nerves,¡± Greg grunted in annoyance. ¡°I don¡¯t think so¡­¡± Ian knew that Quincy would not fight Greg over nothing, and saw the red palm print on Greg¡¯s face just then. He quickly came to a realization. ¡°She found out?¡± Not bothering to exin, Greg simply walked past him.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org. Quincy soon regained consciousness at the hospital. The doctor determined that she had simply passed out from excessive stress, and since it was bad for her heart, the doctor insisted that she not be agitated again. However, there was no way she could stay calm! ¡°Mom¡­¡±n began. ¡°You knew?¡± Quincy asked before he could finish. ¡°¡­Yeah,n answered feebly. Quincy¡¯s face turned pale again, and she pointed a trembling finger atn. ¡°And you didn¡¯t tell me? Do you think what your father is doing is right?!¡± ¡°No!¡±n quickly exined. ¡°I ran into him at the mall with this woman, but I didn¡¯t say because I didn¡¯t want to affect your health. Of course I know what Dad did was wrong! It¡¯s terrible what he did to you!¡± Quincy felt better since her son was on her side, at least. However, her temper soon red again when she noticed that Greg had taken that woman to the mall, and the grief from being betrayed would not have subsided so quickly anyway! ¡°At the mall?¡± Quincy leveled a sharp look at Greg. ¡°What did you buy for her?¡± Greg red at his son, thinking how poor he was with words just then. ¡°Nothing- ¡°Admit it already!¡± Quincy hadunched a pillow at him before he could finish, hitting him squarely. Scowling, Grey growled, ¡°Fine, if you¡¯re so interested in knowing, I won¡¯t hide it-I took her to so many stores and bought her so many things. Hell, I spend so much on her because she is young, beautiful, kind, and understanding! She¡¯s a million times better than you. Satisfied?!¡± ¡°What¡­ You¡­¡± Quincy was choking! The Runaway Groom Chapter 324 The Runaway Groom Chapter 324 Chapter 324 However, even if Greg were to break up with that woman right now, Quincy still felt sick to the stomach, She was too prideful for something like this to happen to her. But it had already happened, and there was nothing that she could do about it. Taking deep breaths to calm herself as much as possible, she snapped, ¡°Tell us! Who is that woman?!¡± She was certainly eager to see whom she had lost to so utterly. Bzzt- While Greg was feeling a little meek just then, his phone started ringing in his pocket. As both Quincy andn stared at him, Greg felt annoyed-it was as if he hadmitted a cardinal sin. He was just having an affair, for goodness¡¯ sake! ¡°Is it that big of a deal, when a man of my worth has a woman on the side?¡± he growled before leaving the room. While Quincy was left at a loss for words,n was furious with Greg¡¯s behavior as well! However, he could not leave, since he was worried that Quincy would pass out with no one tending to her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mom. I¡¯m on your side,¡± he said, giving her hand a squeeze. He was her only hope now, and she held on tightly to his hand. ¡°You have to do your best with Light Group. That way, I would have one over your dad and don¡¯t have to be given grief. That man really hurt me! ¡°I know,¡±n said, trying his best to assure her. Meanwhile, Greg headed to the staircase to answer his phone after leaving the ward. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you not to call me unless it¡¯s very important?¡± He growled, feeling very annoyed just then because of the mess with Quincy. Nheless, Kathy purred from the other end, ¡°I¡¯m pregnant, Greg¡­ I have to tell you because you already have a family, and you definitely wouldn¡¯t want me to keep the baby. Don¡¯t worry-I¡¯m heading to the hospital to get an abortion. I¡¯m young, so I¡¯ll recover soon enough¡­¡± ¡°What¡­?¡± Greg thought he was hearing things. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant?¡± Before Kathy could answer, he barked, ¡°Stop! Don¡¯t get an abortion-no matter how young you are, an abortion will hurt you. Don¡¯t go to the hospital, just stay put. I¡¯lle to you!¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Kathy murmured. After hanging up, Greg promptly dashed past Quincy¡¯s ward without stopping, since he wanted to see Kathy right away. Quincy saw him, and her heart was left in pieces. n, find out who that woman is. I want to know everything about her.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll get somebody too-¡± ¡°Now!¡± Quincy snapped, cutting him short. She was clearly not in control! It was so obvious that Greg was bewitched, and she wanted to know who that witch was right away! Ian had to do as he was told right then, and he was certainly efficient-he had been keeping tabs ever since he caught Greg with Kathy at the mall, making things much easier. And as he passed the dossier on Kathy to Quincy, Quincy¡¯s eyes widened so much they could pop out of their sockets! Noticing that,n asked, ¡°Mom, do you know her?¡± Quincy chortled icily. ¡°Know her? Hah!¡± ¡°What do you mean?¡± Getting off her bed, she growled, ¡°I want to see her right now.¡±