《The Divorcee Who Shines》


 Chapter 1 The Person I Like Is Back

    Chapter 1 The Person I Like Is Back


    Chapter 1 The Person I Like is Back


    "National sweetheart Shannon Murphy is about to return home after her world tour and has


    announced her rtionship with someone outside the entertainment industry."


    "What are you looking at?" Suddenly, a firm chest pressed against her from behind, and Ranita


    Bowman''s slender, fair waist was also encircled by a man''s arm, with hot breath lingering by her


    ear.


    The air was filled with the fragrance of pomelo and a faint scent of alcohol.


    "You... have you been drinking?" Ranita had just asked when the man turned her to face him, his


    rough fingertips caressing her back and slowly descending onto her shoulder.


    Ranita shuddered, and her nightgown trembled and fell off her body.


    A searing kiss spread from behind her ear, causing Ranita to go weak in the waist. She leaned into


    his embrace, and she heard the manzily reply, "Hmm, had a little bit to drink."


    Ranita will hardly refuse any requests from Brendon Stuart.


    And after three years of marriage, Brendon knew all her preferences, effortlessly leading her into


    indulgence.


    Late at night, the warmth in the room gradually returned to its original state, with only the sound of


    dripping watering from the bathroom. Ranita was very tired, but her mind was inexplicably


    clear.


    The bathroom door opened and Brendon emerged wearing a bathrobe.


    He had a handsome face, coupled with broad shoulders, narrow waist, long legs and a family


    background that ordinary people can hardly reach. He was known as the "golden son-inw" in


    Kurima.


    However, outsiders never knew that he had been married for three years.


    "After you finish washing up,e to the study. I have something to tell you," Brendon''s voice was


    also very pleasant, neither fast nor slow, and with a maic tone that was more captivating than


    many professional voice actors.


    Ranita pursed her lips and said reluctantly, "It''s sote, can''t we talk about it tomorrow?"


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    After Ranita finished speaking, she felt a sense of oppression in Brendon''s gaze. She forced a smile


    and thought to herself that the one who falls in love first is always at a disadvantage. Brendon must


    have known that she would back down. With a brave face, she said, "Okay, I''ll goter."


    Ranita quickly took a shower and then went to the study to find Brendon.


    Brendon had changed his clothes, wearing a snow-white shirt and suit pants. He had a low-key but


    expensive belt around his waist, and there was a faint scent of shower gel in the air.


    "Sit!" Brendon''s expression was cold and his voicecked any inflection.


    If Ranita hadn''t just gotten out of his bed, they would have seemed like strangers.


    "At this hour, what do you need from me?" Ranita''s cheeks still carried a hint of post-love flush as


    sheughed softly, her eyes lifting with a flirtatious charm she wasn''t even aware of.


    Brendon nced at her and pulled out a document from the drawer, handing it to Ranita.


    "This is the divorce agreement," he said calmly.


    Ranita was taken aback. She had anticipated this, but she didn''t expect it to happen so suddenly.


    After all, they had just been together moments ago.


    But now they were face-to-face discussing their divorce.


    "I will give you everything I promised during our marriage and an additional alimony payment,"


    Brendon continued in a business-like tone. "If you have any other requests, feel free to bring them


    up and I will consider them."


    Ranita looked over the agreement with lowered eyes, highlighting key points that they had agreed


    upon during their marriage. The alimony payment was generous as well.


    However, Brendon''s signature at the bottom of the page felt like a sharp sting in her heart.


    "There are no problems," Ranita said finally as Brendon handed her a pen. She looked softly at him


    before asking hesitantly, "Brendon... has that person you liked for so longe back?"


    That person who had been an unforgettable existence in his heart for years.

 Chapter 2 Her Secret

    Chapter 2 Her Secret


    Chapter 2 Her Secret


    Brendon had no intention of hiding anything from her.


    "Well, she''s back," Brendon paused and for once exined a little more, "I was very clear with you


    about it before. You should remember."


    Ranita did indeed remember.


    Three years ago, Ranita saved Wyatt Stuart, Brendon''s grandfather. In return, Wyatt forced


    Brendon to marry her, using his illness as leverage. Brendon didn''t get angry but instead found


    Ranita first and made his emotional intentions clear.


    Basically, he had no feelings for her and even if they got married it would just be settling down


    together. Plus he had someone who was the love of his life and who was currently abroad after


    having a fight with him.


    He agreed to the marriage partly out of spite.


    What did Ranita say at that time? She hid her true thoughts and answered him, "I''m only doing this


    for the 1 million dor startup capital."


    Brendon did it for his love while she did it for 1 million dor.


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    They both got what they wanted without any real emotions involved.


    Memories rolled through her mind as Ranita took a deep breath and suppressed her emotions while


    looking calmly at Brendon.


    "I understand," said Ranita with a forced smile trying to keep things civil. "These past three years


    have been good thanks to you taking care of me. Let''s part ways on good terms now and live our


    own lives!"


    "I''ll pack up my things and move out soon."


    Brendon nodded lightly saying, "Do what you want. I have something I need to do outside so go


    ahead and sleep."


    As Brendon picked up his coat heading towards the door, he suddenly turned around asking,


    "Before marrying me didn''t you also like someone else?"


    Ranita was stunned momentarily before responding nonchntly, "Yeah!"


    Back then when Brendon was younger, he sat across from her staring coldly at her eyes. In order


    not make herself look too pathetic, she replied casually, "I''m only doing this for the 1 million startup


    capital... I like someone else."


    A woman who married solely because of money yet still held onto feelings should be easier for


    Brendon, right? At least when they divorced, each could maintain their dignity...


    It was just self-constion though. She never expected that he would still remember after all these


    years!


    "You remembered," said Ranita lowering her gaze but smiling slightly as if recalling sweet memories


    from happier times together.


    "Of course!" Brendon pouted silently, feeling a bit unhappy. He leaned against the door and pulled


    his tie, saying, "Well then, I wish you happiness."


    Ranita''s heart felt empty for a moment.


    Brendon left and Ranita sat in the study for half an hour before picking up her pen to sign her name.


    Ranita''s handwriting was elegant while Brendon''s was bold and powerful.


    Her slender fingers touched his name and her heart filled with pain once again.


    Three years of youth exchanged for a fleeting dream - she didn''t know if it was worth it or not.


    Ranita couldn''t sleep; she kept thinking about Brendon and their three years together. Most of the


    time they discussed work calmly but there were also times when they yed around or cared for


    each other. These few beautiful moments were enough to immerse herself in them repeatedly like


    sand grains invading her bones and flesh.


    The ck fog outside the window remained as if hiding the secret buried deep within her heart - a


    secret that she never dared to tell Brendon.


    She loved him, had loved him many years ago already.

 Chapter 3 No Desire To Renew The Contract

    Chapter 3 No Desire To Renew The Contract


    Chapter 3 No Desire to Renew the Contract


    The night was long.


    Ranita waited all night, but Brendon didn''te back.


    As dawn approached, she was woken up by her rm clock after a brief nap.


    She got ready quickly and put on her professional suit. To look better, she even put on some


    makeup before rushing to Stuart''s Corp.


    The project meeting with Nemotube Shipping Company went smoothly enough, but the intense


    concentration made Ranita''s head ache a little bit. And for some reason today, she felt


    ufortable in her stomach.


    "Mr. Stuart, I have already organized the content of the meeting." Ranita ced the documents on


    his desk and looked at his thin lips.


    It''s said that people with thin lips are cold-hearted.


    Brendon was indeed cold-hearted; that was why Ranita envied Shannon who could get tenderness


    from him.


    "I have highlighted what needs special attention," said Ranita as she withdrew her gaze and took a


    few steps back to create some distance between them.


    She was standing upright in her professional attire, which gave her more of an aggressive edge


    than when she was submissive at home.


    But no matter how different Ranita appeared in Brendon''s eyes, it didn''t matter much to him.


    "I know. We need to entertain Mr. Bassett tonight for dinner and you need to attend," said Brendon


    as he flipped through the files without looking up from them.


    Ranita was an excellent trantor who could convert any sharpnguage into something


    appropriate for any asion, which impressed Brendon greatly.


    "Okay." Nodded Ranita before pausing briefly then pursing her lips as if hesitant before asking, "Mr.


    Stuart, there is one more thing... I want to talk about it with you."


    "What is it?" asked Brendon without lifting his eyes from the file again.


    Ranita noticed his golden short hair spiraling upwards along with his full forehead while speaking


    softly, "After this project ends with Nemotube, I hope not to renew my contract anymore."


    Ranita had opened a trantion studio herself where Brendon signed a three-year contract allowing


    her expertise in overseas projects as their simultaneous interpreter, but their marriage had ended so


    should their work involvement too?


    "Not renew your contract?" questioned Brendon seeming confused by such an immature decision


    being presented by someone like Ranita. That caused him slight frown lines across his forehead,


    "Working together with Stuart''s Corp will only benefit your studio."


    Of course, Ranita knew that this decision would not be friendly towards her studio. But since they


    were starting to cut off this rtionship, she did not want to get too close again! The human heart is


    difficult to control, and she was already deeply trapped in the quagmire. She did not want to go any


    further and fall into the abyss of no return!


    Loving Brendon, in itself, was a mistake.


    Ranita remained silent for a long time. Finally, Brendon looked up at her with his sharp and


    indifferent eyes. He leaned back on the chair and spoke casually,Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Ranita, you''re very professional and have good judgment when ites to work. Our personal


    affairs shouldn''t affect our job." After pausing for a moment, Brendon took out the contract renewal


    agreement from his drawer without giving Ranita any room to refuse like he didst night. "I don''t


    want to hear this kind of talk again. You can leave now."


    "Brendon..." Ranita was getting anxious but before she could finish her sentence, the door of the


    nearby lounge opened and a slender woman called out softly to Brendon, "Brendon!"


    "I didn''t interrupt your conversation with each other?" The woman who entered smelled sweetly of


    perfume like a beautiful butterfly passing by.


    Ranita had seen her on TV before - Shannon - the famous cellist who had been making waves in


    recent years and also happened to be Brendon''s sweetheart.

 Chapter 4 Difficulty

    Chapter 4 Difficulty


    Chapter 4 Difficulty


    Under the bright lights, Shannon looked stunningly beautiful. In person, she was even more


    breathtaking, like a delicate rose in full bloom. She and Brendon made a perfect couple with their


    exceptional looks.


    As Ranita scrutinized Shannon, Shannon also curiously looked at her and tilted her head with a


    smile. Her voice sounded like that of a songbird, "Hello there! You must be Ranita? I''m Shannon. It''s


    nice to meet you."


    Shannon quickly walked over and intimately held Ranita''s hand. "Ranita, I identally spilled coffee


    on my skirt earlier and had to borrow Brendon''s shirt to wear instead. I hope you don''t mind."


    Ranita lowered her eyes and smelled the scent of cedarwood on the white shirt before speaking in


    an indifferent tone, "Miss Murphy, you''re being polite, but men and women have different standards


    of dress code. Besides, Brendon is already married so it''s not quite appropriate for you to wear his


    clothes."


    "Ranita! What rtionship do I have with Brendon? It''s just one piece of clothing! He didn''t say


    anything about it either! You''re so petty!" Shannon pouted while looking at Brendon.


    Brendon frowned slightly, "It really is just one piece of clothing; it doesn''t matter."


    Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita felt uneasy inside.


    "If you don''t agree that it''s inappropriate, then why ask me if I mind? Since that''s the case, then


    don''t bother asking me anymore," said Ranita coldly as she looked at Shannon with disdainful eyes.


    Shannon felt wronged as she leaned towards Brendon while rubbing her chest against him,


    "Brendon, sorry! Did I make Ranita angry? Maybe I should change back into my skirt so that you


    two won''t fight because of me."


    "No way!" said Brendon as he reached out to pat Shannon on the head gently while speaking softly,


    "Ranita won''t fight with me over something like this. Besides, my clothes are mine to decide who


    wears them. Feel free to keep wearing them!"


    "Thank you so much Brendon! You''re always so good to me! I really like you!" eximed an overly


    sweetened voice from Shannon which made Ranita feel nauseous as if she had swallowed a fly.


    "If Mr Stuart is busy, then I''ll leave first," thought Ranita who couldn''t bear watching this lovey-dovey


    scene any longer.


    In haste, Ranita left but when closing the door, she met Shannon''s gaze which was filled with


    prideful provocation.


    Ranita instantly felt wronged until tears welled up in her eyes.


    At noon, Ranita intended going back home for some rest, but received Amiya Murphy''s call asking


    her go visit Bulgari hotel.


    Amiya was Brendon''s mother.


    She personally called Ranita, and although Ranita didn''t want to go after three years'' concession,


    she didn''t know how to refuse , hence agreed reluctantly.


    On a day that hadn''t yet reached summer, it just rained and the temperature immediately dropped.


    Ranita was wearing a short skirt and her knees felt cold. She wasn''t sure if it was because of the


    cold, but she felt a little difort in her lower abdomen.


    After parking her car, Ranita took a short break before leisurely heading to the private room


    designated by Amiya.


    Ranita knocked on the door and entered. Amiya''sughter immediately stopped, and her eyes


    showed a hint of displeasure upon seeing Ranita.


    Ranita was forcibly given to Brendon by Wyatt, and no one in the Stuart family except for the


    deceased Wyatt had any regard for her.


    "Why sote!" Amiya was very displeased.


    However, Ranita''s attention was drawn to Brendon and Shannon, the handsome couple intimately


    close. Shannon was feeding Brendon grapes by hand, looking like a sweet newlywed couple.


    A heart, as if thrown into a frying pan and repeatedly tormented.


    Brendon didn''t seem to expect her arrival, his dark eyes showing surprise for a moment before


    quickly returning to calmness. His voice was cold as he said, "Have the waiter bring another chair."


    "The position is just right, adding one more chair would be crowded!" Amiya said casually, "Besides,


    Ranita is not a member of the Stuart family anymore. There''s no reason for her to attend the family


    banquet."

 Chapter 5 Hot Water

    Chapter 5 Hot Water


    Chapter 5 Hot Water


    Ranita would have liked to walk away, but Amiya was wheelchair-bound due to a car ident and


    had a twisted and paranoid personality. If Ranita were to turn her head and leave, Amiya could


    cause chaos in the next second, leaving Brendon to clean up the mess in the end!


    "Ha, I''m really pathetic. I still can''t bear to see him in trouble," Ranita self-deprecatingly thought to


    herself.


    "Mrs. Stuart, I''m sorry for beingte," Ranita said calmly and unhurriedly, as usual, without a hint of


    anger. "What can I do for you?"


    Being soposed, it made everyone present slightly curious.


    Apart from not having a strong family background, Ranita actually had many good qualities. She


    was strikingly beautiful and ran a sessful studio, earning her own ie. If she had married


    someone from an ordinary family, she would surely be cherished and doted upon by her husband.


    Unfortunately...


    "The new chef here, Mr. Matt, is a foreigner. Since our family is having dinner together, it''s not


    convenient to keep going back and forth tomunicate with him. We can only trouble you!"


    "What do you want to eat, how should it be prepared, and if there are any dietary restrictions, let her


    know."


    Amiya spoke up, leaving the others to nervously order their dishes. When it was Brendon''s turn, he


    parted his thin lips and said, "Just the same as before."


    "Ranita, I''m fine with it just like Brendon!" Shannon finished her sentence and even tilted her head


    towards Brendon, giving Ranita a sweet look. "Please help us out, Ranita."


    Ranita didn''t overlook the flicker of disdain in Shannon''s eyes and calmly said, "Please wait for a


    moment, everyone!"


    She was good at taking notes, and after rying the preferences and requests of the Stuart family


    to the chef, she returned to the private room.


    Before she even entered, she heard Holly Stuart''sining voice, "Why did you call her over?


    So annoying! Finally divorced my brother and now we need to kick her out as soon as possible..."


    "Hmph! She cost us 1 million dors to hire. How can we not make use of her?" Amiya replied


    coldly.


    Ranita''s throat felt sour, and she didn''t feel good inside. She wasn''t as strong as people thought;


    she could feel pain too.


    She suppressed her emotions and was about to push open the door when Brendon''s low, cold voice


    sounded from behind, "Why are you here?"


    A strong yet familiar male scent enveloped Ranita from behind, making her heart skip a beat. In a


    panic, she turned around but bumped into Brendon with a loud thud...


    Their temperatures collided.


    Ranita took a step back in shock but was held in ce by Brendon''s skilled hands on her back. He


    seemed displeased with Ranita''s recklessness, "Impulsive."


    "Sorry! You startled me." Ranita rubbed her fingers together before gently pushing away his hand


    while looking down at him, "I received Mrs. Stuart''s call."


    "You didn''t have toe," Brendon said calmly. They had no rtionship now; there was no need


    for Ranita to continue enduring Amiya.


    Why did shee? Why endure it all? Wasn''t it all for this man in front of her?


    Ranita pursed her lips and spoke softly, "Did I cause trouble for you? I''m sorry..."


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Ranita..." Brendon interrupted before Shannon''s lightughter came through when they opened the


    door, "I knew I heard your voice!"


    "And Miss Bowman is here too! Come on in!"


    Interrupted like that, Brendon didn''t continue speaking but gestured for Ranita to enter with him.


    There were no seats avable so standing around wasn''t an option either. With lowered eyesight


    towards Amiya while bidding farewell politely, Ranita said, "Mrs. Stuart, I have already informed


    Chef about everything. If there is nothing else, I will¡­"


    Before finishing what she wanted say, Amiya ordered, "Ranita, give Shannon a cup of hot water."


    So, Ranita went outside then brought back a cup of hot water for Shannon.


    "Miss Murphy, be careful not burn yourself." As Shannon bent down slightly, Ranita felt like


    something brushed past unintentionally causing boiling hot water spill onto Ranita''s thigh.

 Chapter 6 Ointments

    Chapter 6 Ointments


    Chapter 6 Ointments


    A fiery, intense pain surged in an instant, and the woman''s dress was soaked as well.


    "Oh, I''m sorry... I didn''t mean to!" Shannon covered her mouth, her eyes turning red with a choked-


    up voice full of grievance, as if she was the one who had been burned!


    "Ranita, you''re so careless! If you had burned Shannon''s delicate skin, you''d see how my brother


    and I would deal with you!" Holly raised her eyebrows and joined in, scolding Ranita.


    "Don''t me Ranita, it was my fault! The hot water was just too hot and my fingers are all red


    now..." Shannon weakly presented her fingers to Brendon, sniffling with a hint of tears in her eyes.


    "Bro, you need to take Shannon to the hospital quickly..."


    Everyone gathered around Shannon. Ranita lowered her gaze and a bitter smile crossed her lips.


    She quietly went to the restroom outside of the private room.


    The temperature of the hot water was not low, and the skin that had been scalded had turned red.


    She carefully dampened a tissue and applied it to the affected area, hoping to alleviate the pain.


    Just then, Shannon''s voice suddenly sounded from behind, "Ranita!"


    Ranita turned around and found that Shannon had somehow positioned herself behind her, pouring


    a ss of cold water over her head.


    The water was icy cold, and as it poured down on Ranita''s head, it trickled down her cheeks and


    soaked through her clothes. The sound of the drops hitting the ground echoed in her ears, and she


    felt a chill run through her heart.


    "Ranita, this ss of water is a gift for you to celebrate the three years you''ve monopolized


    Brendon!" Shannon casually threw the cup into the trash can, making a cracking sound.


    Ranita''s heart also cracked a few fissures.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Also, Brendon gave you face by not immediately kicking you out of the family. But I hope you have


    some self-awareness and pack up your things to leave as soon as possible."


    Shannon departed with pride.


    Ranita was caught off guard when she was suddenly drenched with icy water. It took her a moment


    toe to her senses, but by the time she did, the person responsible had already walked away.


    Ranita smiled bitterly and didn''t expect Shannon to have such a personality. Did Brendon like rude


    person?


    Actually, Ranita didn''t need to be urged by Brendon. She will move out as soon as possible. Her


    marriage with Brendon had ended and she should face reality soberly.


    Ranita quickly tidied herself up and asked a waiter for a hair dryer to dry her clothes. However, her


    makeup was smudged, making her look a bit disheveled.


    When Ranita returned to the private room, there was no one inside. She didn''t see any familiar


    figures and felt empty in her heart, but also as if she had breathed a sigh of relief.


    Her current appearance was really disheveled. She didn''t want Brendon to see it.


    Without a chance to protest, Ranita was pulled into the car by Brendon as soon as she left the


    hotel. He ced a burn ointment in her hand and the man''s voice in the car sounded cold, "Apply it


    on the wound."


    As the words fell, Ranita heard the man apologize in a low voice, "Sorry, my mom has a bad


    temper. If she calls you again, don''te."


    Ranita hung her head and felt her heart sink.


    "Okay, I''ll handle it...," she started to say but suddenly noticed Brendon''s hand resting on her short


    skirt. He lifted it up and frowned at the blisters on her skin. "Even if it''s blistered, you act like it''s not


    a big deal?"


    The hot water had left blisters all over her skin that looked painful just to look at.


    But if she wanted to apply ointment in front of Brendon, she would have to lift up her skirt. The


    thought alone made Ranita''s face flush red with embarrassment.


    "Thank you for the ointment but it''s not convenient here. I''ll use it when I get home," said Ranita as


    she held onto the tube of ointment tightly. She immediately heard Brendon''s low voice saying, "Give


    me the ointment and let me help you apply it."


    Brendon took away the tube of ointment and used his cool fingertips to rub gently against Ranita''s


    injured leg where he applied some of its contents which brought immediate relief from pain.


    However, as he rubbed against an area near her inner thigh, there were sensitive nerves that


    caused shivers down Ranita''s spine due to his touch. Her ears turned red while tensing up with a


    straight back and legs mped around his hand.


    His warm hands had touched countless times over every inch of skin on hers before this moment.


    Ambiguity arose out of nowhere between them.

 Chapter 7 The Local Tyrant

    Chapter 7 The Local Tyrant


    Chapter 7 The Local Tyrant


    "Sorry..." Ranita''s voice trembled and she felt a slight sweat on her back. "I''ll do it myself!"


    The woman reached out to take the ointment from his hand.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    As Ranita''s fingertips touched his skin, it felt as if she had been shocked by electricity, leaving her


    momentarily stunned.


    This was really spineless.


    "Ranita..." the man''s voice was very low, and before Ranita could react, he held her chin, taking


    control as he kissed her.


    Brendon was very skilled at kissing; he kissed her until she can''t catch her breath.


    "Ring ring!" Brendon''s phone suddenly rang.


    Brendon paid no heed and continued to kiss her, causing Ranita''s heart to beat like a drum,


    irregr and chaotic.


    Right at this moment.


    The driver in front knocked on the partition and hesitated before saying, "Mr. Stuart, Miss Murphy


    called. She said that your mother is ill at home and asked if you could go back home."


    In an instant, the desire dissipatedpletely.


    "You can drop me off at the intersection ahead. I''ll go back to the studio," said Ranita calmly as she


    buttoned up her shirt and straightened her short skirt.


    "I''ll drop you off at the studio first and then go back to Bouldend Mansion."


    Ranita hitched a ride, changed into the same professional suit at her studio, and rested for half a


    day before having her assistant drive her back to Stuart''s Corp. Downstairs, she saw Brendon in his


    impably tailored suit and polished shoes.


    The hand-tailored suit entuated his figure, standing tall like a pine tree. Paired with his


    perpetually serious and excessively handsome face, he was like a walking hormone, able to attract


    attention from anyone at any time.


    The venue for Rashid Bassett''s reception had been set at Autumnhall Manor, where besides


    Brendon and other executives from thepany, a small banquet hall had been reserved to


    amodate personnel from Nemotube.


    Rashid came from a wealthy local family in Dubai. Although he was responsible for the business of


    Nemotube in Great Slioclia, he was just a figurehead and will return home after some time.


    After exchanging greetings, both of them took their seats. Ranita took the initiative to pour a ss of


    pre-wakened red wine for Rashid and spoke in a soft tone, "Mr. Bassett, I heard that you particrly


    like red wine. This is specially prepared by Mr. Stuart for you. Please try it."


    If Brendon can offer it to guests, it must be a good product.


    "Great taste!" Rashid eximed repeatedly, "Thank you very much, Miss Bowman!"


    To satisfy the customer, there was a slight smile in Ranita''s eyes as she said, "Mr. Bassett, if you


    like it, then I''m happy."


    "You too, please!" Rashid also helped Ranita pour half a cup and said cheerfully, "Cheers!"


    "Miss Bowman, you speak Arabic very well, and you''re quite charming. I liked you the moment I saw


    you," Rashid paused for a moment and then said very directly, "I wonder if you''re interested in


    bing my third wife?"


    Ranita was taken aback! Brendon scowled, clearly unhappy.


    "Mr. Bassett, you are a very charming man. If my heart wasn''t already spoken for, I would definitely


    consider your offer!" Ranita maintained a smile and spoke in a soft tone as she politely declined.


    Perhaps it was the alcohol, but Ranita''s fair cheeks had a hint of pink to them. Her curved eyebrows


    and eyes made her clear ck pupils shine like stars in the sky.


    Spoken for? Brendon mulled over those words and his expression grew even darker as he leaned


    in close to Ranita''s ear. "Tell him you''re married."


    Ranita wanted to remind him that they had already signed divorce papers, but the words wouldn''t


    come out of her mouth. Instead she changed the subject, "Mr. Bassett is just joking."


    She couldn''t even win an argument with one person - how could she dare be someone''s third


    wife?

 Chapter 8 My Woman

    Chapter 8 My Woman


    Chapter 8 My Woman


    Suddenly, Ranita''s eyes widened slightly.


    Brendon''s slender fingers suddenly rested on her leg, their warmth palpable. He gently squeezed


    her leg and said in a deep voice by her ear, "Are you considering giving this old man a chance by


    not outright rejecting him?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "What are you talking about!" Ranita red at Brendon, her ears burning hot behind her ck hair.


    "Mr. Stuart, in public please remove your hand!"


    "Who dares to object when I put my hand on my woman''s leg?" Brendon''s deration of "my


    woman" in that deep voice echoed in Ranita''s ears, making her heart surge, almost losing control.


    "Mr. Stuart, stop it." Ranita took a deep breath, her heart hurting like a knife with every beat.


    No matter how beautiful it was, there was still a Shannon between them.


    Brendon leaned in, pressing half of his arm against hers. He caught a whiff of citrus on the woman''s


    body and noticed her delicate corbone peeking out from under her shirt. It was slender and fair,


    like the white snow tower peony in a greenhouse.


    "Tell him that you are my wife."


    A deep voice sounded in Ranita''s ear, and her heart, as well as her lips and tongue, couldn''t help


    but savor the words.


    "You are my wife" - these five words, though only four, were the words she had been waiting for


    three years. Now that the divorce agreement had been signed, her wish had finallye true.


    Ranita''s thoughts were tooplex and tangled to express.


    "You''ve had too much to drink!" Ranita pursed her lips and ignored Brendon, once again rejecting


    Rashid.


    "Although it''s regrettable, let''s still be friends! Here is my personal contact information! If you need


    any help, feel free to reach out to me!"


    Ranita did not refuse Rashid''s kindness and epted his business card. She thanked him with a


    smile and said, "Thank you, I will invite you to dinner when I have time!"


    Brendon saw that they were chatting again, his face was very unhappy and he wanted to confront


    them, but he was stopped by the other party''s trantor, Amanda.


    Rashid was aplete alcoholic, and Ranita reluctantly had a few drinks. Feeling dizzy, she had to


    take the opportunity to go to the restroom to sober up.


    As soon as she stepped out of the door, Brendon grabbed her by the back of her cor.


    "Stop!" The man''s voice sounded unhappy, deep and cold, with a chilling expression that was quite


    frightening.


    "Mr. Stuart, what''s going on?" Ranita''s heart raced, especially with the warmth pressed against the


    back of her neck, making her thoughts swirl.


    Brendon stared at her but didn''t say anything.


    "Mr. Stuart..."


    "Do you really want to be Rashid''s third wife? Are you willing to share a husband with several other


    women?" Brendon suddenly asked an unexpected question.


    It took Ranita a moment to react. "Did I do something that gave you the wrong impression?" she


    pursed her lips. In truth, Ranita wanted to say that even if she did, they were already divorced and


    Brendon had no right to question who she liked or shared her life with.


    But she didn''t want toplicate things.


    Her feelings for Brendon were a secret she kept hidden, and it was thest shred of dignity she had


    left.


    "You took Rashid''s personal business card," he said. This meant they would be in contact privately -


    something Ranita never did before.


    "Ranita, this vites our contract," Brendon said irritably, furrowing his brow and speaking without


    emotion.


    Ranita was stunned for two seconds. "I''m sorry if I vited any terms of our contract; I''ll return Mr.


    Bassett''s card right away! And I won''t contact him!" Ranita was actually very upset and even briefly


    wondered if Brendon was jealous or angry at her.


    But could that be possible?


    He hadn''t given her anything - not even emotions or love - let alone his mood swings.

 Chapter 9 Drunk

    Chapter 9 Drunk


    Chapter 9 Drunk


    "Perfect!" Brendon nodded elegantly and continued, "That old man only wants money and nothing


    else. Do you want topete with two women for attention? Not a good choice! Besides, don''t you


    already have someone in your heart?"


    In short, Rashid was not an option.


    "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Stuart!" Ranita gritted her teeth and quickly ran to the restroom.


    Ranita stayed outside for about five minutes before calming down and returning with a calm


    expression on her face. "Sorry, I took a phone call and came backte."


    "No need to be polite! Mr. Stuart and I are enjoying some wine!" Rashid paused before admiringly


    saying with a smile, "I didn''t expect Mr. Stuart to have such good drinking skills. Truly admirable."


    Both Rashid''s and Amanda''s drinking skills were excellent, especially Rashid''s. It was rare for him


    to meet someone like Brendon who could not only drink well but also talk about wine together so he


    let loose.


    Ranita watched them cheerfully clink sses without realizing anything.


    Ranita, of course, couldn''t escape and ended up drinking two more sses. Alcohol began to take


    its effect, tinting her ears and cheeks with a rosy hue, like the petals of a peony bathed in morning


    dew, a delicate and captivating shade.


    However, Ranita remained oblivious.


    "Don''t drink anymore!" When Ranita picked up her ss again, Brendon reached out to stop her.


    He felt sensitive enough to notice that Rashid was looking at Ranita again!


    He obviously hadn''t given up yet!


    Brendon went back-and-forth with Rashid during dinner until even he felt dizzy by the end of it all.


    Amanda immediately kindly supported Brendon, "Mr. Stuart, you''ve had too much alcohol tonight.


    Why don''t you rest at Autumnhall Manor tonight?"


    Brendon secretly frowned as Amanda''s perfume was too strong for his liking.


    "No need! You guys can rest here! We''ll leave first." Without showing any trace of suspicion towards


    Amanda, Brendon distanced himself from her slightly. He had slight OCD tendencies so he didn''t


    like staying in hotels outside his home in Kurima no matter howte it got.


    "It''s already sote. Miss Bowman has been drinking as well. Why not stay here tonight?" Amanda


    tried hard persuading him.


    She wanted to sleep with Brendon, and this might be the only chance she got. And besides, she


    added something extra into his drink when she poured itst time. If she let him go now, wouldn''t


    that just benefit others?


    "Thanks for your kindness, Miss Amanda. Mr. Stuart''s driver is waiting outside. He will safely take


    us home." After finishing speaking, Ranita smiled at Rashid, "Goodbye, Mr. Bassett."


    Here they went again!


    Brendon felt a bit ufortable when he saw Rashid and Ranita exchanging smiles with each


    other, so he stretched out his arm and ced it on the woman''s shoulder, leaning half of his body


    against Ranita.


    A light and familiar fragrance prated Brendon''s nostrils, and suddenly he felt a tingling


    sensation in his feverish brain. Some hidden thoughts in his heart seemed to have been stirred up


    as well.


    Ranita frowned inwardly, but ultimately did not push the person away. She nodded at Rashid and


    Amanda before helping the man leave.


    Ranita actually didn''t know if Brendon was drunk or not, but she was feeling a bit dizzy herself.


    Brendon''s warmth against the skin on the back of her neck was apanied by the scent of red


    wine, making her face and ears even redder!


    Silent all the way.


    Ranita helped him into the bedroom and said, "You rest here! I''ll go next door."


    They had already divorced and it was not suitable for them to continue living together.


    The next moment, Ranita found herself tumbling onto therge bed with Brendon. He rolled over,


    cing his hands on either side of her head, looking down at her from above.


    T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The closer they were, the stronger the taste of alcohol.


    "Ranita, I want to..."


    Ranita was trapped, her mind in a daze as she met the man''s turbulent and intense gaze. It wasn''t


    untilter that she realized her scalp had begun to tingle, followed by a burning sensation behind


    her ears.

 Chapter 10 Get Out

    Chapter 10 Get Out


    Chapter 10 Get Out


    "Ranita..." The man''s voice was hoarse and low, flowing gently in her ear. Ranita''s heart skipped a


    beat. She dared not breathe too heavily, just staring foolishly at the man.


    Brendon had absolute control over her.


    A long kiss made her dizzy and unable to think.


    "Brendon... you''re drunk..." At first, Ranita tried to maintain some rationality. "Get up, I need to rest."


    After all, they were no longer what they used to be.


    They shouldn''t do intimate things anymore.


    But the man seemed not to have heard her. One strong arm wrapped around her waist and his


    kisses became dominant and fierce.


    In a daze, she felt a corner of her lip bitten painfully.


    "Brendon! Let me go!" Ranita pushed his hand away, trying to break free from his embrace. But the


    alcohol-controlled man clearly couldn''t reason with her.


    He looked down at Ranita from above with eyes that were tender yet lingering after losing their


    coldness.


    Who was he looking at through her?


    The answer was about toe out.


    Ranita''s eyes turned red as if filled with sand in a basket that hurt so much she couldn''t catch her


    breath.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Ranita... I feel ufortable..." His face rubbed against hers; it was hot and carried a strong smell


    of alcohol as he kissed on the nape of neck carefully.


    Ranita pushed several times but it was futile against Brendon''s strength.


    The night grew deep with heavy dew outside while their usually tidy bedroom became messy


    everywhere; Brendon slept soundly while holding onto one of Ranita''s arms tightly.


    However, Ranita''s mind remained awake. She stared at Brendon''s face for awhile before getting up


    slowly due to an ache in waist caused by the sleeping position.


    She went into bathroom for showering which helped clear up some thoughts naturally such as what


    should she do next? She shouldn''t have done anything like this with Brendon, and how would


    Brendon react when he woke up tomorrow?


    Would Brendon be angry or think less of her?


    Brendon was drunk, but she was not!


    "Ah!" Covering both sides of cheeks, Ranita regretted being too impulsive. How could she lose


    control like this! What should she do now?


    Like sneaking mouse, Ranita escaped from bedroom quietly but suddenly Amiya''s voice came


    behind, "Ranita!"


    Startled, Ranita almost fell down because legs were already weak. Then, a heavy porcin cup hit


    hard on Ranita''s leg!


    It hurt so much!


    "Mrs. Stuart..." Ranita tried to steady herself and speak, but she noticed Amiya staring at her neck.


    Embarrassed, Ranita pulled at her robe.


    Brendon was strong and her skin was tender; even a slight touch left a red mark.


    "Hehe! Ranita, you have no shame! You''ve already divorced Brendon and yet you still have the


    nerve to climb into his bed," Amiya spoke without any politeness, ring at her with disgust in her


    eyes.


    The whole situation caught Ranita off guard. She didn''t expect it.


    "Mrs. Stuart..." Ranita wanted to exin herself but Amiya didn''t give her the chance, "You don''t


    need to exin anything. I can see it with my own eyes!"


    "I''m sorry, Mrs. Stuart!" Ranita lowered her head voluntarily. "It won''t happen again! I''ll go rest now."


    She wanted to calm things down because she knew that if she fought with Amiya, she would be the


    one who suffered in the end.


    "Wait!" Amiya called out after her as she turned away from her. Her eyebrows raised as she spoke,


    "Since you''ve divorced Brendon, it''s not appropriate for you to stay here anymore! Your luggage is


    already by the door; take your things and leave now!"

 Chapter 11 A Robe Counts As A Favor

    Chapter 11 A Robe Counts As A Favor


    Chapter 11 A Robe Counts As A Favor


    Bouldend Mansion belonged to the Stuart family so there was really no reason for Ranita to stay


    there given her current status.


    Ranita took a deep breath and nodded, "Okay! But first I want to change my clothes."


    She was wearing Brendon''s bathrobe! It was loose and sloppy, how can she go out like this and


    face people!


    But unexpectedly, Amiya refused directly, "Ranita, all of your clothes were purchased using


    Brendon''s money during your three years here so you don''t have any right take them away!"


    "I''ll give you one robe as a favor."


    Ranita gritted through clenched teeth knowing that arguing about this with Amiya would get


    nowhere. So, she said nothing more about it.


    Ranita didn''t have much luggage anyway ¨C just one big suitcase when arriving three years ago


    which was what they used when leaving too - everything felt like an illusion from another world


    where only vague memories remained behind...


    May nights were cooler than days; wearing only a bathrobe made Ranita shiver violently when wind


    blew against bare skin...


    In the middle of night near Bouldend Mansion, there weren''t any taxis avable nearby nor did


    buses run frequently enough around here either - closest bus stop being two kilometers away...


    Standing on roadside alone, Ranita suddenly felt pitiful wondering why did everything had


    happened between herself and Brendon? If not for their stubbornness, then maybe they could''ve


    been happier living free lives separately...


    But there is no regret medicine in this world, and love never makes sense. If given another chance,


    she thought she would make the same choice.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Ah!" Ranita sighed and pulled out her low-battery phone. She scrolled through her contacts list, up


    and down, before finally settling on Dn Webster.


    Dn arrived quickly and was startled by her appearance, "What happened to you? Get in the car!"


    Dn pushed her into the back seat while grabbing her luggage.


    Dn searched the trunk and threw arge nket to Ranita. Out of the corner of his eye, he


    noticed her pink and fair neck, as he looked down with a suddenly lowered voice, "Did Brendon


    bully you?"


    Ranita wrapped herself tightly and scanned her eyes through the rearview mirror, where she saw a


    blurry carved iron gate and a cluster of wild roses just blooming.


    Ranita came to her senses and looked at Dn, meeting his concerned gaze before speaking


    softly, "Dn, I got divorced from Brendon."


    In Bouldend Mansion.


    Watching Ranita disappear on the surveince footage, Amiya handed a cup of hot water to


    Shannon andfortingly said, "ording to your n, I managed to get rid of her. Don''t be


    unhappy!"


    Shannon was not happy at all; she was about to go crazy with anger!


    She stayed in Bouldend Mansion today, eagerly waiting for Brendon toe back. She even


    personally nned and prepared ate-night snack for him. However, the result was...


    Whenever Shannon thought about the ambiguous soundsing from the bedroom, it infuriated


    her to the point of having a heart attack! This also served as a reminder to Shannon that Brendon


    and Ranita had been married for three years, and they had probably slept together countless times


    during those years. What if Brendon started feeling pity for Ranita?


    At this thought, Shannon can''t help but wish to tear Ranita into pieces directly!


    "Auntie!" Shannon''s eyes turned red, "I am really angry! Ranita clearly divorced Brendon, but still..."


    "Oh my, look at you! I already taught her a lesson for you! Don''t be angry anymore!" Amiya couldn''t


    bear to see Shannon''s red eyes andforted her in a soft voice, "I just heard from the servant that


    Brendon got drunk, so it must be Ranita''s fault!"


    Amiya patted Shannon''s hand and lowered her voice, giving her a meaningful look. "Brendon is


    drunk, Shannon. You know what I mean."


    Shannon suddenly looked up, and her red and aggrieved eyes immediately added a hint of


    coquettish smile.


    In no time, Shannon pushed open the master bedroom door with light steps.

 Chapter 12 Heartache

    Chapter 12 Heartache


    Chapter 12 Heartache


    Ranita woke up feeling thirsty. Her throat was sore, her head heavy, and her breath felt like it was


    on fire. She reached for her phone and realized she had a fever.


    Last night, instead of going to Dn''s ce, Ranita stayed at a hotel. Dn didn''t want her to be


    alone so he booked the room next to hers.


    As soon as she turned on her phone, she saw that it was already past 10 am and there were


    several missed calls and messages waiting for her.


    "Hello? Mr. Stuart? What''s up?" Ranita answered the call while holding onto the bedpost for


    support.


    "Miss Bowman, are you okay? Your voice sounds hoarse," Caleb Stuart asked with concern.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''m fine. Why are you calling me so early?"


    "Well... Mr. Bassett has an urgent matter in Dubai and needs to leave immediately."


    Ranita understood what that meant without Caleb having to exin further: they needed to sign a


    contract before noon today!


    "What about Brendon?" Ranita asked while rummaging through her luggage for clothes.


    "I''ve already informed him."


    "Oh...," Ranita pondered for a few seconds, looking at the empty suitcase with no clothes to wear,


    falling into silence.


    She had fallen asleep as soon as she entered the roomst night and hadn''t carefully looked at


    what was inside the suitcase.


    It was indeed Amiya''s doing!


    "I will hurry over as soon as possible!" Ranita hung up the phone, feeling heavy-headed but light-


    footed as she quickly freshened up. While packing her things, Ranita realized that the sh drive in


    her bag was missing. It contained important information that she needed for today!


    Ranita''s head was pounding, and she vaguely remembered that the sh drive might have been left


    at Bouldend Mansion. She had no choice but to ask Dn to take her there.


    Familiar with the route, Ranita climbed the stairs to the second floor. Just as she was about to


    knock on the door, she heard Shannon''s voice filled with grievance from inside, "I saw Ranita


    leavingst night and was worried that you had drunk too much, so I came to take care of you. Who


    knew you would suddenly..."


    "Brendon... I''m sorry... It''s all my fault! I shouldn''t have entered your room without permission. You


    don''t have to me yourself too much!"


    Boom!


    Ranita felt as if a lightning bolt had struck her heart.


    Trembling, she gently pushed open the door, and at that moment, Ranita''s heart, once flesh and


    blood, felt like it had been thrown into an icy abyss.


    Coldness enveloped her blood and limbs, leaving her without the courage to even breathe...


    On therge bed in the center of the room, the clothes of a man and a woman were in disarray.


    There was no need to guess what had happened!


    "Ranita?" Brendon saw Ranita suddenly appear and felt a moment of panic, but quicklyposed


    himself. "Will you listen to my exnation?"


    What else was there to exin?!


    "No need. I just came back to get something! I''ll leave right away!" Ranita''s head was spinning, and


    her legs were so weak that she could barely stand on the floor.


    Shannon scrambled to her feet and grabbed Ranita''s hand, looking at her with a pitifully distressed


    expression. "Ranita, things aren''t what you think! Can you please listen to me exin?"


    After just a few words, Shannon''s tears started to flow. She sobbed pitifully, "It''s my fault and has


    nothing to do with Brendon. Don''t me Brendon, me me!"

 Chapter 13 Making A Fuss For No Reason

    Chapter 13 Making A Fuss For No Reason


    Chapter 13 Making a Fuss for No Reason


    She couldn''t me anyone but herself. She med herself for being so foolish, for loving someone


    she shouldn''t love.


    "Miss Murphy, please let go of my hand." Ranita''s heart was as cold as it was painful. Her world


    was crumbling and she feared breaking down in front of Brendon.


    "No! Ranita, please don''t be angry. Brendon drank too much and there was a misunderstanding.


    Please..."


    "That''s enough! I don''t want to hear..." Shannon''s every word felt like a boulder smashing into her


    already shattered heart, causing her vision to darken.


    Ranita pushed Shannon away.


    "Ah!" Shannon fell backward onto the table corner with a thud and cried out in pain. "It hurts so


    much! Brendon... my hand hurts so much! I think it might be broken!"


    "Ranita, I really didn''t mean for this to happen... I didn''t expect things to turn out like this..."


    "Shannon, you didn''t hurt! There''s no need to scream like a ughtered pig..." Before the sentence


    could bepleted, a shadow came forward and stood in front of her, gentlyforting Shannon,


    "Are you okay? Don''t cry!"


    "Wuwu! Brendon, it really hurts! Can you help me blow on it? Whenever I used to get hurt, you


    would help me, and then the pain would go away!"


    Blow?


    Did she think she was a three-year-old child?


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "I didn''t use any force at all!"


    "But it really hurts! Look at my arm; the skin is broken!"


    Ranita turned her head, and the man looked down at her coldly, "Ranita, I will exin things to you


    later. Don''t make a fuss for no reason!"


    Her heart grew colder than ever before.


    Was she making a fuss?


    Finally unable to hold back any longer, Ranita spoke up, "Brendon, although we signed divorce


    papers, legally you are still my husband until then. You were sleeping around with another woman


    right in front of me yet use me of being unreasonable?"


    Faced with this usation, Brendon remained silent while Shannon continued crying and holding


    onto his hand tightly.


    Ranita, her head already spinning, coldly nced at Brendon and walked towards the dressing


    table. She found the identally dropped sh drive in the corner and turned to leave.


    "Ranita!" Brendon grabbed her wrist. "I will figure this out and talk to you properly. Don''t be angry."


    Although they were living separate lives after their divorce, legally they were still married. Brendon


    had never intended to cheat during their marriage.


    As he held her hand, she could feel the warmth of his touch.


    In the past, she loved holding his hand, feeling the warmth like being wrapped in a cozy cashmere


    nket. Ranita knew she should let go, she should feel disgusted, but with his grip, her heart


    softened.


    "I''ll walk you out," Brendon said as he casually put on his coat.


    Ranita didn''t say anything during their walk and neither did Brendon until they reached Dn


    standing at the door.


    Brendon frowned slightly and his tone turned cooler than before. "Is that the Webster family''s


    second son?"


    "Hey there!" Dn waved when he saw her, grinning broadly. "Got everything? Let''s go!"


    He took Ranita''s bag from her hands without waiting for an answer from either of them.


    Brendon was ignoredpletely and his face darkened a few shades. "I''m heading to work too so


    juste with me in my car instead of bothering others," he said to Dn who he actually knew but


    wasn''t close with yet.


    He narrowed his eyes at Dn before adding, "Give me Ranita''s bag."


    Without waiting for an answer, Brendon grabbed hold of Ranita''s bag himself.

 Chapter 14 The Most Familiar Stranger

    Chapter 14 The Most Familiar Stranger


    Chapter 14 The Most Familiar Stranger


    "Mr. Stuart, no need to be polite. I''ll take care of Ranita''s things myself! And I''ll personally escort


    her, so you don''t have to bother!" Dn smirked, his lips curling in a mocking manner. "I am


    Ranita''s friend, and it''s better to trouble me than some other stranger."


    A stranger?!


    Brendon''s already cold expression turned even colder as he red at Dn.


    Dn shrugged and continued taunting him, "Haven''t you heard of the phrase ''the most familiar


    stranger,'' Mr. Stuart?"


    Ranita was afraid they would start fighting and quickly got into the car, saying, "Let''s go, Dn! We


    don''t want to bother Mr. Stuart."


    Ranita had a slight fever.


    Before entering Stuart''s Corp, she took some cold medicine but still felt like she was walking on


    cotton when she entered the meeting room.


    Her seat was next to Brendon''s; she could see him whether she looked up or down.


    A faint scent wafted over from Brendon; Ranita instinctively moved her chair away but couldn''t


    move much because of limited space. She identally bumped into a senior executive sitting next


    to her while moving her chair back and felt embarrassed as she moved back again.


    The man flipped through documents with an indifferent expression before speaking in a low voice,


    "Have you read the new contract?"


    "... I''m reading it now!" Ranita tried hard to focus on the document but felt more confused with each


    passing moment.


    Ranita was not in a good state, but luckily Rashid was in a hurry. He quickly skimmed through the


    documents and signed them, and with some polite greetings, the whole process took less than half


    an hour!


    As they bid farewell, Rashid warmly embraced her, reluctant to let go. "Miss Bowman, I really can''t


    bear to see you go! I''m prepared to keep a ce for you, so feel free to reach out to me anytime!"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Ranita forced a smile and changed the subject. "Wishing you a safe journey!"


    Rashid shrugged nonchntly and confidently got into his car, driving away.


    "I''m sorry!" Ranita followed Brendon into the CEO''s office, looking weak and apologetic. "Mr. Stuart,


    I''m not feeling well today."


    Brendon gave her a deep look and gestured for her toe closer. "Come here!"


    "What''s wrong?" Ranita took a couple of steps closer, only to be pulled forcefully onto hisp.


    Ranita struggled, but he held her down.


    "Is this because of Shannon? I drank too muchst night so I can''t remember what happened! But if


    that''s why your mood is affected then let me make it up to you," Brendon offered.


    Was he trying buy her off?


    Suddenly feeling powerless, Ranita wanted an exnation or sincere apology from him. Was that


    too much to ask?


    "No need! We''ve already signed... divorced. Who you sleep with is none of my business!" Ranita


    didn''t want to bring up the divorce, but once she said it, it felt like a weight had been lifted off her


    chest.


    In the end, she still found a lowly reason to justify Brendon who had hurt her.


    Not loving, so ignoring. Heartless, so trampling.


    "We''re not talking about this anymore!" Brendon brushed it off and instead brought up the grudge


    through gritted teeth, "The most familiar stranger?"


    As he spoke, his lips brushed against her neck, sending a wave of heat across her skin, causing


    Ranita''s body to tremble slightly.


    "Dn is joking with you."


    Brendon seemed dissatisfied with this exnation. "I''m a stranger?" he said, as his palm reached


    into her leg andnded on the skin that had been burned before. "Is it better now?"


    "Feeling better!" Ranita snorted, then heard Brendon ask, "Dn, is that the person you''ve liked for


    a long time?"


    Ranita held the man''s hand to prevent him from causing further trouble, with a nk expression on


    her face. "No. He is my friend."


    As the words fell, Ranita''s waist was fiercely rubbed, causing her to cry out in pain and her ears


    turning red. "It''s really true! Dn is just my friend, Brendon, let go of me!"


    However, Brendon grabbed her waist and quickly pinned her down on the desk.

 Chapter 15 Staying With Dylan At The Hotel

    Chapter 15 Staying With Dn At The Hotel


    Chapter 15 Staying with Dn at the Hotel


    Eye contact.


    His hands lingered on her slender and smooth waist, and her blushing cheeks resembled peach


    blossom petals, incredibly beautiful.


    Brendon lowered his head, his lips about tond on the corner of hers.


    "Brendon, are you in there?!" Just then, the office door was pushed open heavily and Holly rushed


    in with her chin up, "Brendon, I have something important to tell you!"


    "Holly, didn''t anyone teach you to knock before entering?" Brendon scowled coldly, causing Holly''s


    legs to go weak at the sight.


    Holly pouted in a grievance and then red at Ranita with resentment.


    Despite Brendon''s quick response, she still saw it. Brendon had pinned Ranita down on the desk!


    Ranita, this sly fox, was actually seducing her brother in the office!


    "Brother... I''m just worried. Ranita stayed with a man in a hotelst night!" Holly handed her phone


    to Brendon and said, "See it for yourself if you don''t believe me!"


    Holly looked triumphantly at Ranita, wagging her finger. "I saw it very clearly," she said. "She was


    hugging and cuddling with a stranger at the hotel, and they even came out of the same room!"


    Ranita calmly nced at the video, which was taken in the hotel corridor when she and Dn


    entered the room together.


    Her face was captured clearly, while Dn was only seen from behind.


    "Brendon, I''m not using her falsely! She just got divorced and couldn''t wait to go to the hotel with


    a stranger. Who knows what she did before..."


    Brendon interrupted her, "Holly, you go out!"


    After sending Holly away, Brendon handed the video to Ranita with a cold tone, "Did you go to the


    hotel with Dn? In one room?"


    Ranita met Brendon''s gaze with a sudden realization, seeing the suspicion and anger in his eyes.


    Her heart was stirred and writhed in pain.


    She exined hoarsely, "Brendon, I was indeed with Dn at the hotelst night, but..."


    "No need to exin!" Brendon paused, raised his eyebrows and spoke sharply, "Although we have


    signed a divorce agreement, we haven''t gone through the legal process yet. I don''t want any


    unpleasant things to happen during this period!"


    "Do you understand?" He was always domineering.


    Ranita opened her mouth but didn''t continue with any exnation.


    Forget it, he may not want to listen to her exnation, nor believe it.


    As soon as Ranita left, Caleb walked into the CEO''s office and handed a report to Brendon. After


    quickly scanning through it, Brendon returned it to Caleb and said, "Shred it."


    This was histest blood test report, which indicated the presence of prohibited substances in his


    blood. So, it was possible that he indeed had a physical rtionship with Shannonst night due to


    drug-rted reasons.


    Brendon''s eyes flickered with coldness. "Has the surveince at Autumnhall Manor been checked?


    Who did it?"


    "It has been checked, and nothing unusual was found," Caleb hesitated before continuing. "There


    were a lot of people from bothpanies in the banquet hall at that time, so it''s hard to determine


    who did it."


    Brendon was not one to take losses lightly, and his icy expression became even more frustrated.


    "Let''s leave this matter here." Then Brendon furrowed his brow and asked, "Has everything been


    taken care of on Ranita''s end?"


    "I''ve already sent someone to handle it. The real estate matters will take a few days to process, but


    the alimony should be deposited today."


    "Add another 1 million," Brendon said generously as he gave Ranita everything she deserved.


    "Arrange a time for her to go through the procedures."


    As soon as Ranita stepped into the elevator, her phone made a ding sound. She opened it up in


    surprise and saw that Brendon had transferred an additional sum of money into her ount.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    It was for their divorce settlement.


    He had given her an extra 1 million on top of their agreed-upon 3 million!


    Ranita knew this was his way of making amends for what happened earlier today. Although there


    was plenty of money involved, she didn''t feel particrly happy about it.


    The second message came from Caleb asking if she had time three dayster in the morning to go


    through with their divorce proceedings.


    Ranita rubbed her fingers together calmly before replying with just one word, "Okay".

 Chapter 16 Disgusting People

    Chapter 16 Disgusting People


    Chapter 16 Disgusting People


    Three dayster, at the Civil Affairs Bureau.


    Ranita and Brendon submitted their divorce application, followed by a one-month cooling-off period.


    If either party changes their mind, the divorce will be invalid.


    Outside, Shannon rushed to Brendon''s side like a little bird with a bouquet of red roses in her arms.


    She wore a white dress that made her look like she was getting married.


    "Ranita, thank you so much!" Shannon handed the red roses to Ranita. "I didn''t know what kind of


    flowers you liked, so I bought them ording to my own preferences."


    "Brendon, I bought flowers for Ranita. Will you buy me some too?" Shannon coquettishly leaned


    towards Brendon.


    Ranita handed the red roses back to Shannon. "No need, I don''t like red roses."


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Ranita, you''re so cold!" Shannon pouted.


    Ranita was speechless. Did she have to be grateful and enthusiastic towards someone who had


    interfered in her marriage?


    Shannonined to Brendon with an aggrieved expression, "Brendon, did I do something


    wrong? Ranita seems not to like me!"


    "No way! Ranita is straightforward and doesn''t beat around the bush when she speaks. Don''t take it


    personally," said Brendon.


    "Really? I thought Ranita was still angry about what happened before! I feel really guilty..." As she


    spoke, Shannon looked as if she might burst into tears any moment now and clung onto Brendon


    while gazing at him with pure desire written all over her face.


    Ranita felt suffocated in her chest.


    "I have something else going on; I''m leaving now." Ranita hailed a taxi and left.


    She ran into Amiya on the first floor of Stuart''s Corp when she reached there.


    "Mrs. Stuart!" Ranita nodded politely, but Amiya responded with a disdainful hum.


    Ranita didn''t get angry either; they could each go their own way. Getting upset would only harm her


    own well-being.


    However, Amiya stopped her and said, "Wait a moment! I''d like to invite you for a coffee."


    "Turner, push me along to the caf¨¦ and order two cups of coffee." Amiya didn''t care about Ranita''s


    opinion at all; she just decided everything herself.


    Ranita sat down calmly and asked, "Mrs. Stuart, do you have any advice?"


    "Last night, Brendon had a bit too much to drink and unintentionally mistreated Shannon. Even


    though you''ve filed for divorce, legal ties haven''t been dissolved yet, and Brendon is a responsible


    person. If you don''t have someone by your side who can take care of you, he might have concerns,"


    Amiya spoke with an air of condescension and got straight to the point. "How about I introduce


    someone to you? Turner John is someone I trust a lot. If you marry Turner, you''ll still receive


    support from my family in the future. Brendon can rest assured, and so can we."


    The Turner that Amiya highly valued was Robert John''s son, the butler of Bouldend Mansion and


    Amiya''s personal driver who was currently buying coffee for them!


    It wasn''t that Ranita looked down on the Stuart family''s driver, but rather she had identally


    discovered that Turner had been fooling around with one of the maids in Bouldend Mansion while


    pretending to have no girlfriend in front of Amiya.


    After being teased by Shannon and Amiya one after another, Ranita couldn''t hold back her anger


    any longer.


    "Since he''s your preferred candidate, why not keep him as your own son-inw? It wouldn''t be


    appropriate for an outsider like me to steal him away."


    "I have already divorced Brendon. We are now going our separate ways and I have nothing to do


    with the Stuart family anymore. Nodding my head in agreement is already my greatest courtesy;


    please don''t trouble me again in the future, Mrs. Stuart."


    Ranita was actually quite sharp-witted with her words. She had previously refrained from arguing


    with the old woman, out of respect for Brendon''s reputation, but now that she had no ties to the


    Stuart family, she felt more empowered to speak her mind.


    "You!" Amiya was so angry that her lips trembled; how could a servant like Turner be matched up as


    her son-inw? In her eyes, servants were only suitable for people like Ranita who were second-


    hand goods!

 Chapter 17 Return Gift

    Chapter 17 Return Gift


    Chapter 17 Return Gift


    "Mrs. Stuart, calm down! It''s not worth getting sick over!" Ranita paused and sent Amiya a list on


    her phone. "Mrs. Stuart, there''s one more thing I need your help with. The items on this list are my


    personal belongings still at Bouldend Mansion. Should I call the police to retrieve them or can you


    gather them and deliver them to me?"


    "Ranita!" Amiya couldn''t hold back any longer and gritted her teeth in anger. "How dare you order


    me around?"


    "I wouldn''t dream of it," Ranita replied sarcastically, her tone cool as ice. "You''re far superior to me."


    With that, Ranita left while Amiya nearly threw her coffee cup in frustration.


    Feeling relieved afterpleting her work, Ranita stopped by the studio to pick up some files when


    she ran into Shannon in the VIP elevator.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Shannon was dressed elegantly in a white dress and held a branded coffee cup as she looked


    down at Ranita with an air of superiority.


    Ranita cursed under her breath for being so unlucky today - unwanted people kept popping up


    before her eyes.


    In her contemtion, she heard Shannon''s sweet and cloying voice from behind, "Ranita, I heard


    that onlypany executives or VIPs can use this exclusive elevator. Why don''t you go to the next


    one?"


    "Thank you for reminding me, Miss Murphy but unfortunately I have special clearance from Mr.


    Stuart," replied Ranita calmly as she pressed the floor button.


    The elevator doors closed.


    On the pristine elevator wall, there were only two indistinct figures. Shannon, unable to contain


    herself, spoke first, "Ranita, do you know that Brendon and I are getting married?"


    Ranita nced at her with a calm tone, "I don''t know when you n to get married, but I do know


    that although I signed a divorce agreement, I haven''t gone through the legal process yet! If you''re


    too hasty, he might end upmitting bigamy!"


    "You!" Shannon raised her hand angrily but before she could throw the coffee, Ranita held onto her


    wrist first and said calmly, "Miss Murphy, don''t bully innocent people all day long. Remember, even


    rabbits bite when they''re cornered."


    "Ranita, you''re hurting my wrist... aren''t you afraid I''ll tell Brendon about this? You''re bullying me!"


    Shannon brought up Brendon again, but this time, Ranita pointed to the surveince camera above


    their heads, "There''s a camera here. Do you really want Brendon to see your face like this?"


    "After all, you''re supposed to be a sweet youngdy rather than an uncivilized woman who throws


    coffee at others."


    Every word and sentence was a mockery, causing Shannon''s face to instantly change. She was


    angry and frustrated.


    "Ranita, you''re really quick-witted!" Shannon gritted her teeth, unable to maintain her sweet


    expression any longer.


    But Ranita hit the nail on the head with her words. If this escted and Brendon saw the


    surveince footage, how would he view Shannon? She couldn''t take that risk!


    "You won''t do it again! After all, we learn from our mistakes, don''t we?" With those words, Ranita


    tightened her grip on Shannon''s wrist. The pain made Shannon scream, "Ranita, let go of me! What


    are you doing?! You said there''s surveince here! If you hurt me in any way Brendon won''t spare


    you..."


    Ignoring her protestspletely, Ranita calmly took the still-warm coffee from Shannon''s hand.


    The next second, Ranita poured the coffee directly onto Shannon''s chest without batting an eyelid.


    -Ssh


    After a brief moment of shock, Shannon let out a sharp cry, "Ah!"


    "Hmph." Ranita spoke emotionlessly, "This is my gift to you, Miss Murphy."


    -Ding Dong


    Just then, the elevator doors opened. Ranita said casually, "Oh by the way, the elevator surveince


    has been under repair for these past few days. So it probably didn''t capture what you wanted."


    As she turned around, Ranita''s smile froze.

 Chapter 18 Sealed Lips

    Chapter 18 Sealed Lips


    Chapter 18 Sealed Lips


    Brendon stood at the elevator door, his eyes coldly fixed on her. Shannon ran over and hugged the


    man''s arm, crying out, "Brendon..."


    Shannon whimpered and pouted, tears streaming down her face without a word.


    "Ranita, what did you do?" Brendon asked in a low angry tone.


    "Brendon... don''t me Ranita. It wasn''t intentional! She was probably just in a bad mood! The


    coffee wasn''t hot, I''m fine and not hurt! I just beg Ranita not to be mad at me!" Shannon''s eyes


    turned red like a pitiful bunny being bullied.


    Ranita felt choked up inside.


    "I spilled the coffee," Ranita said with sunken eyes as she washed away her heartache repeatedly


    in an icy cave that shattered into pieces.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Nothing else to say?" Brendon''s voice was very cold. "I gave you the chance to exin."


    She looked at Brendon; what else could she say? No matter what she said, he would stillfort


    Shannon in the end.


    If so, why bother wasting words?


    Ranita''s silence made Brendon feel even more pressured all around him.


    "Shannon, go wash up in the lounge first and change into my clothes." Brendon gave her a cold


    nce as he helped Shannon walk towards the lounge while she sobbed, "Will Ranita be angry


    about this?"


    "Don''t worry about it. Hurry up and go inside!" Brendon spoke softly with tenderness both implicitly


    and explicitly present throughout his words.


    Ranita went back to her small apartment feeling downcast.


    This time shey there for three days straight.


    Although Ranita had recovered from her illness physically but emotionally it was another story


    altogether.


    In the middle of the night, Ranita was awakened by the urgent ringing of her phone. She reached


    for her phone and sat up in bed, saying, "Hello? Who is this?"


    "I''m Chris Webster." The voice on other side of phone sounded deep with maism. "Brendon had


    drinks outside with me earlier tonight; he got drunk now. I''ll send him over to Riverside Vi soon


    where you might need to take care of him."


    Ranita held onto the thin nket with her fingers pinching tightly together hesitating before


    speaking, "Actually..."


    She divorced from Brendon already so his affairs shouldn''t concern her anymore!


    But when it came down to Brendon, she couldn''t let gopletely.


    "It''s okay... I''ll head over right away!" After washing her face and changing into clean clothes, Ranita


    drove her car straight to Riverside Vi.


    As soon as she walked through the door, Ranita saw Brendon lying on the couch, his white shirt


    slightly wrinkled, his sleeves rolled up, revealing a sturdy forearm. His cor was also open by two


    buttons exposing his slightly reddened neck and muscr chest.


    "Brendon!" Ranita called out, but all she heard in response was heavy breathing.


    Her heart ached as she went to get water to wash his face.


    The man''s fingers were long and distinct, and holding them made her feel safe. If only she could


    hold onto these hands for the rest of her life!


    Before leaving, Ranita covered the man with a nket and gave him some instructions, "Brendon,


    change your clothes. I left water and hangover medicine next to you. I''m leaving now."


    As she turned around, he suddenly grabbed her wrist.


    Ranita felt dizzy as he pulled her towards him. The smell of alcohol hit her as he kissed her


    passionately.


    Their intertwined breaths turned into waves of heat that flushed Ranita''s cheeks pink.


    She wanted to break free from his embrace, but the more she loved Brendon, the more powerless


    she felt. She was like a small boat pushed onto the crest of a wave that would be engulfed no


    matter which direction it went in.


    Ranita had no choice but to give in again to Brendon''s unreasonable demands.


    Suddenly! A wave of heat rushed over her ear as Brendon whispered, "Shannon..."

 Chapter 19 Red Eyes

    Chapter 19 Red Eyes


    Chapter 19 Red Eyes


    With just one word, Ranita felt her blood run cold, and her heart seemed to lose the warmth that


    had been sustaining its beats, turning into a frozen stone.


    The woman extended her hand with her fingers half-raised in the air, but then hesitantly withdrew it


    after a few shakes.


    Did Brendon mistake her for Shannon? Her eyes turned red, and her heart was crushed into pieces


    inch by inch.


    The man''s long breath was still in her ear, and his lips left a string of hot marks behind her ear.


    Ranita pushed Brendon hard and ran out.


    The cool night breeze carried a chill.


    Ranita stood in the backyard of the vi, leaning against the cold wall. She stood until her legs went


    numb and it wasn''t until the sky turned bright that she snapped out of her trance.


    She straightened her clothes, grabbed the car keys at the entrance and drove away.


    Ranita''s thoughts were in disarray, and it wasn''t until she snapped out of it that she realized she had


    driven her car to the studio. As soon as she got out of the car, a furious shout came from above,


    "Ranita!"


    Ranita looked up and saw a ck glittering whirlwind blowing towards her. Before she could even


    see who it was, the person gave her a hard p.


    With a loud "pop!", the passing people were stunned.


    Ranita was pped before she realized that the person in front of her was Holly.


    Holly was wearing a ck sequin skirt and matching sleeve covers on her wrists, which brushed


    against Ranita''s face and caused a painful scrape on her skin.


    "Ranita, consider this p a lesson for you to recognize your ce. Don''t be so shameless as to


    seduce my brother!"


    Ranita''s face was burning with pain as she looked at Holly, who was ring at her. Her voice turned


    cold as she said, "Miss Stuart, I don''t understand what you''re talking about!"


    "Heh, Ranita, don''t y dumb with me! Let me tell you, my brother belongs to Shannon, and if I


    ever catch you going to the Riverside Vi again, I''ll give you a beating every time I see you!"


    It was like this originally...


    "So you followed me here and evenid your hands on me?" Ranita''s voice turned colder, and her


    gaze at Holly was filled with anger.


    "You''re divorced and yet you''re still bothering my brother. Can''t I give you a beating? Shannon may


    be a gentle person, but I''m not one to be trifled with. If you dare to make Shannon sad or upset, I


    won''t let you off the hook..." Holly rambled on, her chin held high, disying an arrogant and


    domineering attitude, as if the p she mentioned was some kind of favor.


    Can''t bear it anymore, no need to endure!


    T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita backhandedly pped Holly, abruptly silencing her voice.


    "You... you dare to hit me?" Holly looked at Ranita in disbelief. After recovering from her shock, she


    raised her hand again, intending to strike. However, this time Ranita was prepared and held her


    hands, speaking indifferently, "Consider this p as repayment, and I won''t hold it against you. But


    if youy a hand on me again, don''t me me for sending you to the authorities."

 Chapter 20 Conflict

    Chapter 20 Conflict


    Chapter 20 Conflict


    Riverside Vi.


    In the morning light, Brendon opened his eyes.


    He saw a figure running towards him and, in confusion, shouted, "Ranita, pour me a ss of water."


    The water cup was handed over, followed by Shannon''s pure voice, "Brendon, it''s me! I''m Shannon,


    not Ranita!"


    "Shannon? Is that you?" Brendon rubbed his temples, wondering if his mind was ying tricks on


    him. That night, he thought he saw Ranita, but it turned out to be Shannon sleeping beside him, just


    like now.


    He heard Ranita''s voice and even kissed her, but when he opened his eyes, it was still Shannon in


    front of him!


    "Shannon, have you been here the whole time?"


    "Brendon, why are you asking like that? I took care of you all night! Look at my pale face and the


    dark circles under my eyes!" Shannon pouted in a coquettish manner. "I''m upset! You have to


    pamper me, Brendon!"


    "I said the wrong thing!" Brendon pulled out a card, "Buy whatever you want, consider it my way of


    apologizing."


    T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Brendon''s phone rang.


    "Brendon,e and save me! Ranita is hitting me, and I''m being bullied to death!" Holly''s voice


    came through the phone, sounding like a pig being ughtered.


    Brendon rushed to the scene with Shannon.


    Holly immediately turned to her support andined, "Brother, look at what Ranita did to my


    face!"


    "Hehe! Holly, are you done yet? Do you want to go back to the hospital for another injury check? If


    you wait a few more minutes, your wound will heal!" Dn sneered and turned his gaze unkindly


    towards Brendon.


    "Mr. Webster, what are you talking about! Everyone saw it, Ranita was the one who hit me!" Holly


    refused to back down, but didn''t mention that she had started it first.


    "Holly, you started the physical altercation yourself. Can''t Ranita defend herself? Brendones


    here and she''s justified! If you still have a problem with it, we can involve the authorities!"


    Brendon looked at the messy scene and asked with a headache, "Ranita, what''s going on?"


    "Brendon! Don''t listen to Ranita''s exnation, she has no shame, she..."


    Shannon interrupted her in fear that Holly might spill the beans, "Holly, no matter what, it is wrong to


    resort to physical violence!"


    "Ranita, Holly is straightforward and can be impulsive. Can you please not take it to heart?"


    Shannon paused, biting her lip, her eyes glistening with a pitiful, doe-like mist. "On behalf of Holly, I


    apologize to you! If you still feel unsatisfied, then you can hit me instead!"


    "Shannon, this matter has nothing to do with you!" Brendon shielded Shannon behind him and


    faced Holly. "Holly, apologize to Ranita!"


    "I don''t..." Holly found it harder to apologize!


    But Holly had always been afraid of Brendon. One look or word from him was enough to make her


    feel powerless and unable to resist. After gritting her teeth and saying sorry, she stomped away.


    "Brendon, let''s go check on Holly. Don''t let her anger get the best of her!" Shannon said as she


    tugged on Brendon''s arm. "Come on, let''s go!"


    Brendon nced at Ranita and Dn before leaving with Shannon, his eyes filled with displeasure.


    "Ranita, remember what I said - stay away from Dn!"


    The men disappeared into the distance.


    "Ranita!" Dn eximed, rushing to support her as she stumbled and collided with the car door.


    "What happened to you?"


    Ranita shook her head wearily and was about to tell Dn that everything was fine when suddenly


    everything went ck before copsing into his arms...

 Chapter 21 Seven Weeks Pregnant

    Chapter 21 Seven Weeks Pregnant


    Chapter 21 Seven Weeks Pregnant


    Ranita woke up to see the snow-white ceiling and Dn''s tired face. "Dn... where am I?" Ranita


    asked groggily, her voice hoarse and a bit confused.


    "Ranita, are you awake? This is the hospital!" Dn took her to see the doctor, and after an


    examination, the doctor reported that everything was fine. It was only then that Dn put on a stern


    face and pretended to be angry, saying, "You fool! The doctor said you fainted due to excessive


    fatigue!"


    "You''re working for Brendon, there''s no need to neglect your health like this!"


    "I''m sorry," Ranita didn''t want to cause trouble for anyone, but she felt guilty about always causing


    trouble for Dn.


    "What good is it apologizing? It''s your own body. If you don''t take care of yourself, what can I do?"


    Dn scolded her but then gently brought a bowl of warm porridge over, "Eat some."


    Ranita remembered how kind Dn was being towards her.


    "Thank you, Dn."


    "Don''t be polite with me!" Although he blushed when she thanked him so much, his mouth didn''t let


    up, "Hurry up and eat. You won''t die from illness; you''ll starve yourself instead."


    Dn made Ranitaugh as she ate a big bowl of porridge without hesitation.


    Dn packed up her things and suddenly pulled out a report from a drawer, his expression serious


    as he handed it to her. He pursed his lips and said, "Ranita, you''re going to be a mother!"


    It caught her off guardpletely.


    "Huh?" Ranita looked at him nkly.


    "See for yourself," He handed over the report which clearly stated under results column - "Early


    pregnancy 7 weeks".


    She was pregnant?


    Ranita counted backwards carefully; it must have happened before Wyatt died when she became


    pregnant. But how could this happen when they were using contraception all along?! Even if they


    weren''t divorced yet, having children wasn''t an option right now!


    "What do you n to do?" Dn, aware of her situation, didn''t directly persuade her to keep the


    child but instead hoped that Ranita could make her own decision.


    "Forget it," Shey down on bed feeling hopeless. She threw away the report aside saying, "His


    child shouldn''t be inside my belly."


    "Hush now," Quickly grabbing pillow and putting it on her stomach, Dn pretended like an innocent


    kid, "Don''t say things like that. The baby will hear!"


    "Baby, just now your mommy spoke nonsense! Don''t listen, okay?" Dn leaned in close to her


    belly, yfully offeringfort.


    Ranita couldn''t help butugh again.


    "Dn, you''re silly! A 7-week-old embryo hasn''t even developed hearing yet so there''s no way it


    can hear anything."N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Ranita''s heart ached, but she was painfully aware that the chances of keeping this child were very


    low.


    She could raise the child if she chose to, but there were those who wouldn''t allow the child to


    be an obstacle between Brendon and Shannon, causing heartache.


    Moreover, in the unfortunate event that Brendon decided to fight her for the child after its birth, her


    chances of winning were almost nonexistent.


    "Ranita, the doctor says it''s strong. Although it''s just a small embryo now, it will be an


    especially cute child in the future - a vibrant life. I hope you think carefully before making a decision.


    I don''t want you to regret itter."


    "No matter what decision you make, I''ll support you!" Dn said with a clearugh. "Anyway, we


    can afford it!"


    Ranita was persuaded.


    Ranita didn''t sleep much in the second half of the night. After knowing that there was a baby in her


    belly, she became sensitive and asionally felt another heartbeat - thinking that this was Brendon


    and her child made her feel even more reluctant.


    Brendon was handsome; if the baby took after its father, it''ll be an adorable kid.


    Ranita thought about it over and over again: she divorced Brendon and left the Stuart family;


    opportunities to meet the Stuart family were not very frequent in the future. As long as they kept


    quiet about it well enough, perhaps she could keep this baby.

 Chapter 22 Shocked And Terrified

    Chapter 22 Shocked And Terrified


    Chapter 22 Shocked and Terrified


    "Dn, I n to keep the baby, but I want you to help me keep it a secret," Ranita said when she


    decided to tell Dn. Dn was so happy that he jumped up like a child and eximed, "Really?


    That''s great!"


    Ranita stayed in the hospital for one night and was discharged with no major health issues.


    However, before leaving, she needed to have an ultrasound. The coupling agent applied on her


    belly felt cold, but when she saw the small shadow on the monitor screen, Ranita couldn''t help but


    smile.


    After it was over, Ranita left with her report. Not far away from her stood, Shannon who tightly


    frowned while holding hands with a female doctor in a white coat. Wasn''t that Ranita? What was


    she doing here?


    "Shannon? What''s wrong? What are you looking at?" The female doctor named Carlee Chase


    asked Shannon curiously. She was Shannon''s cousin and worked as an obstetrician-gynecologist at


    this hospital.


    Shannon snapped out of her thoughts and smiled sweetly at Carlee, "Carlee, I think I just saw my


    friend." In fact, Shannon wasn''t feeling good about this. Why would Ranitae to the OB-GYN


    department? Could it be... she was pregnant?! Just thinking about this possibility made Shannon''s


    heart race!


    "Carlee, can you help me see what kind of procedure my friend is having here?" Since Carlee and


    Shannon had a good rtionship together, without much thought or hesitation, Carlee agreed.


    Soon after that, Carlee came out of the ultrasound room smiling, "Shannon, your friend is pregnant!


    She has been carrying for more than one month now."


    "What?" Shannon couldn''t help eximing! Was Ranita really pregnant? If it had only been over one


    month, then could Brendon be its father?! No, no, no! This can not happen!


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    After waiting three years for them to divorce, if Brendon knew that Ranita had his child, would he


    change his mind?


    Shannon clenched her fists secretly while feeling both surprised and angry inside.


    "Shannon... Shannon... what happened ? Your face doesn''t look good. Did something happen?"


    Carlee asked worriedly.


    "I''m fine, Carlee! Maybe because I didn''t eat breakfast this morning so I feel dizzy." Originally, they


    nned on having lunch togetherter today, but now how could she possibly have any appetite?


    Her whole mind focused on finding ways ¨C the baby cannot stay, and Brendon must never know!


    Ranita returned back into her ward just as Dn finished her discharge procedures. He excitedly


    stared at the image in their report, "Wow! Look how cute the baby looks!"


    Ranita was speechless.


    "Just a little ck dot, how can you see it as cute?" Ranita couldn''t honestly agree with Dn''s


    words, but Dn was thrilled to bits.


    Ranita couldn''t help teasing him, "Someone who doesn''t know any better would think you''re already


    a dad!"


    "Well, it''s not impossible!" Dn grabbed the report card and suddenly bent over with a grin at


    Ranita. Dn and Chris were brothers, but they had different mothers. Dn looked more like his


    birth mother - he had slightly southern features with small facial features and fair skin that didn''t


    show his age much. Even though Dn was three years older than her, Ranita always felt they


    were the same age.


    "Since we''re both single, why don''t we raise a child together?" Dn asked tentatively, leaving


    Ranita stunned for a moment.


    "Dn, don''t be ridiculous!" Ranitaughed off the awkwardness between them - she and Dn


    were just friends without any romantic feelings.


    "Don''t take it so seriously! I''m just kidding!" With lowered eyes and an indescribable sense of


    disappointment in his heart, he knew he shouldn''t burden on her too much about this idea.


    Therefore, he showed off his signature warm smile, "Let me tell you something ¨C there are people


    lining up seven circles around to date me! If you want to grab your chance, then do it quickly,


    because once this opportunity is gone, there won''t be another one like this again."

 Chapter 23 Strike Back

    Chapter 23 Strike Back


    Chapter 23 Strike Back


    Ranita was attentive, and she suddenly realized that Dn might have different feelings for her. But


    when did this start?


    "What are you staring at? Don''t take it seriously. I''m just joking!" Dn paused and returned the


    report to her, coolly saying with his hands in his pockets, "You divorced Brendon, and I just want to


    help you."


    Ranita pursed her lips and didn''t ask any further questions.


    "Thank you! If there''s anything I need your help with, I''ll definitely ask."


    Dn was already very satisfied to hear Ranita say these words. Heughed like a fool and said,


    "I''m always ready!"


    "Let''s go! I''ll take you back to rest!" Dn went to get the car while Ranita slowly turned towards the


    hospital lobby. Just as she turned a corner, she met Shannon head-on!


    Ranita couldn''t help but frown. She didn''t want to see anyone from the Stuart family or Shannon!


    "Ranita, why are you at the hospital? Are you feeling unwell?" Shannon''s voice was soft as if they


    were close friends.


    "Miss Murphy, you should call me Miss Bowman from now on!" Ranita calmly put the examination


    report into her bag and looked at Shannon with calm eyes. "Brendon isn''t here so there''s no need


    for you to deliberately disgust me."


    Ranita really didn''t want anything to do with Shannon.


    Shannon felt embarrassed and stared angrily at Ranita as if she wanted fireing out of her eyes.


    "I don''t want trouble with you, Miss Bowman! But why do you alwayse out here bothering me?"


    "Holly is right; since you''ve already divorced Brendon, then stop sticking around him like a leech!"


    After pausing for a moment, Shannon curled up her lips and continued in an elongated tone, "Do


    you know why I came here today?"


    As she spoke those words softly, she lightly stroked her long hair on top of her stomach, "My


    appetite hasn''t been goodtely; plus feeling nauseous all day long¡­calcting time when


    Brendon happened to be overseas visiting me... could it be that we have good news?"


    Brendon had been together with Shannon... and they even had children?


    Ranita lifted her eyelids indifferently, "Congrattions?"


    She thought that Brendon had no feelings for her but would remain loyal in their marriage. She


    tightly clenched her fingers together as betrayal scraped awayyer byyer of flesh off of


    heartstrings making them blurry beyond recognition inside herself.


    "Thank you!" Shannon was ecstatic to see Ranita get hit. "Miss Bowman, you managed to use his


    grandfather''s one million to make a name for yourself, and now you''re taking a good chunk of


    Brendon''s alimony. You should know when to quit! I hope you cancel your contract with Stuart Corp


    so that I can live my life with Brendon without seeing your boring face all the time!"


    Once Ranita finished the legal process with Brendon, she would be nothing but a small trantor


    who could easily be chased out of Kurima by Amiya or Holly.


    Shannon left with a smile.


    Ring ring, her phone rang.


    Ranita saw that it was Brendon calling and hesitated before answering. "Mr. Stuart, what can I do


    for you?"


    She sounded polite yet distant, even carrying an indescribable coldness in her tone.


    After several seconds of silence on his end, he spoke in a low and maic voice, "I heard you


    took sick leave? Which hospital are you at? Let mee visit."


    Hearing Brendon''s voice made her feel dazed as she replied coolly, "No need. I''ve already been


    discharged."


    "Discharged? Who took care of you these past few days? Dn?" The man asked casually yet


    directly.


    Ranita had followed Brendon for three years - working as his partner during the day and being his


    caring wife at night - so he knew almost everything about her schedule.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    But now they needed some boundaries between them.


    "I don''t need to report my personal matters to you, Mr. Stuart," she said through pursed lips.


    Personal matters?! Hearing those words made something inside him ignite! They weren''t even fully


    divorced yet and she was already eager to cut ties with him?!


    "Ranita..." He didn''t finish speaking before Ranita hung up on him!

 Chapter 24 How To Explain A Swollen Stomach

    Chapter 24 How To Exin A Swollen Stomach


    Chapter 24 How to Exin a Swollen Stomach


    Ranita took two more days off.


    When Brendon saw the leave slip, he asked Caleb with displeasure, "Send me Ranita''s address."


    "Brendon, are you going to see Ranita?" Shannon had beening around a lottely. "Last time


    you told me she took sick leave and I''m worried about her too! Why don''t we go see her together?"


    "Brendon, what does Ranita like? Let''s bring her some gifts!"


    Thinking for a moment, Brendon said, "She seems to really like apples. Let''s bring some over!"


    When the doorbell rang, Ranita had just finished discussing a project with someone.


    "Who is it?" It waste at night and Dn had onlye in the afternoon. Who could it be?


    Ranita opened the door and saw Brendon holding a fruit basket. She was surprised, "Why did you


    come?"


    The next second, a petite figure emerged from behind Brendon and affectionately held his hand


    while smiling sweetly, "Ranita, I heard you were sick and both Brendon and I were worried about


    you so we came to check on you."


    Ranita couldn''t stop smiling.


    "Don''t be polite. My ce is small so I won''t entertain you." After seeing that Brendon didn''t look too


    happy about it, she quickly added, "Let me treat you guys to coffee instead."N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "No need. We just came to see how you''re doing," said Brendon as he handed over the fruit basket.


    He scanned inside but didn''t see anyone else there before pursing his lips and saying, "Rest well if


    you''re still sick. Eat more of your favorite apples."


    "Yeah! Ranita, I also love apples because they''re sweet and nutritious so eat more!" Shannon


    winked at her whileughing heartily but inside Ranita felt empty.


    She actually didn''t like apples that much but ever since he gave one to her for the first time she


    would instinctively reach for an apple whenever she saw fruits around.


    But now it seemed all meaningless because he remembered Shannon''s preferences instead of


    hers.


    Brendon never asked nor did she tell him that she liked green grapes or peaches or many other


    things except for not liking apples very much but none of that mattered anymore.


    "My fridge can''t hold any more stuff so take this back if Miss Murphy likes them," said Ranita as she


    pressed down on the doorknob while looking at Brendon intently before adding coldly, "If you aren''t


    drinking coffee then please leave."


    "Ranita... please, if you don''t want me around, I can ept that, but Brendon came here to see you


    personally. Don''t be so distant," Shannon said, feigning vulnerability, her eyes misty as she


    defended Brendon, her heart breaking.


    "I''m sick and need to rest!" Ranita said, not bothering to be polite as she closed the door behind her.


    She leaned against it, feeling exhausted both physically and mentally.


    Two dayster, Ranita returned to work after her sick leave.


    She walked into the office with Brendon and he casually took off his emerald cufflinks before rolling


    up his sleeves and sitting down in a leather chair without looking up. He asked nonchntly, "Caleb


    told me you haven''t given him your contract renewal yet?"


    Ranita took out the renewal contract from her bag and handed it back. "Mr. Stuart, after careful


    consideration, I''ve decided not to renew my contract."


    If she was going to end things with thepany, then she wanted a clean break.


    "Why?" Brendon finally looked up at her with deep-set eyes that showed a hint of displeasure in his


    otherwise indifferent expression.


    In Brendon''s opinion, there was no reason for Ranita to refuse a contract renewal.


    "It''s personal reasons. I n on taking some time off," Ranita replied firmly.


    "How long? I can give you vacation time or even increase your sry by ten percent," Brendon


    offered as he closed his pen cap and tapped lightly on the desk with his fingers.


    "I''m sorry but I''ve already made my decision," Ranita stood firm in her choice instead of entertaining


    any more offers from him.


    "Ranita, ording to our agreement, even if you don''t sign a new contract, you still need three


    months'' notice before leaving until we find someone suitable for your position."


    Three months? By then she would be showing signs of pregnancy... How would she exin that


    growing belly?

 Chapter 25 Resentment

    Chapter 25 Resentment


    Chapter 25 Resentment


    "Mr. Stuart..." Ranita wanted to argue, but Brendon was firm and his face clearly showed the word


    "no." It made Ranita furious!


    As soon as she got back to her studio, she locked herself in her office and muttered furiously,


    "Brendon is not human! Brendon is not human!"


    Could it be that Brendon was deliberately making things difficult for her?


    There were plenty of trantion experts in Kurima who had a big reputation and many people


    wanted to work with him. This made Ranita even more frustrated!


    But no matter how angry she was, she couldn''t change the fact that Brendon had given her a new


    project. After calming down, Ranita began working on organizing thetest project.


    Stuart''s Corp owned an auction house which was one of Asia''s strongest due to its powerful


    influence.


    This time, the art pieces being auctioned were of high caliber so they invited wealthy businessmen


    from abroad. It was a heavy task for Ranita who spent all afternoon sorting out information. Before


    leaving, Olivia Foley reminded her about a dinner appointment tonight where they would discuss


    business matters.


    Ranita feared running out of time so she put on makeup early and changed into a long dress


    instead of wearing professional attire.


    "Mr. Stuart, here are the organized materials for you to look at," said Ranita while secretly ncing


    at her wristwatch since she could only afford five minutes here or else risk beingte.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "You''re in a hurry?" asked Brendon keenly while flipping through some pages before his gaze fell


    upon the woman''s dress; he slowly spoke up, "The dress looks unique."


    "Thank you for yourpliment, Mr. Stuart!" The woman raised an eyebrow with a smile; fatigue


    disappeared from between her brows leaving only bright eyes shining like stars - not only did this


    dress look unique but so did this person!


    Ranita worked diligently without any ws found by Brendon. After putting down the materials within


    ten seconds, Ranita bolted away like escaping from something.


    Brendon gazed at the back of the woman who just disappeared, his cold eyebrows suddenly


    wrinkled showing displeasure. Caleb came in reporting work just then, Brendon thought for


    amoment and asked, "Do you know where Ranita is going tonight?"


    "Huh?" Caleb took a while to react, "Are you looking for Miss Bowman? I can call..."


    "No need!" said Brendon indifferently. Ranita''s whereabouts had nothing to do with him. He


    shouldn''t have been curious about it anyway since he wasn''t involved.


    When Brendon said there wasn''t any need, Caleb didn''t ask further. After reporting his work, Caleb


    reminded Brendon that he had booked a restaurant with Shannon tonight and that the driver had


    already gone to get her. Estimated time of arrival was in about ten minutes.


    Brendon didn''t want to care about Ranita, but he found himself distracted the whole way, thinking


    about her. Who was she dressed up so nicely for? Was it Dn or someone else she kept hidden in


    her heart?


    He imed not to care, but he was always full of suspicion.


    "Brendon!" Shannon couldn''t help but call out when she saw him fiddling with his pen without writing


    anything. "Is something bothering you?"


    "No, I''m fine," Brendon said as he read the termination letter sent by the legal department.


    "Work is important, Brendon, but you need to take breaks too," Shannon reminded him gently


    before asking tentatively, "Since you and Ranita broke up, is she still working here?"


    "You and her..."


    "Shannon..." Brendon began before cutting himself off. "Shannon... I appreciate her work skills.


    That''s all."


    Shannon blushed at Brendon''s exnation while feeling excited at the same time.


    She knew that in Brendon''s heart, she was the most important person no matter what happened


    between him and Ranita over three years ago. After all, how could forced love ever be sweet?


    Shannon felt extremely pleased with herself!

 Chapter 26 Not A Trifled Person

    Chapter 26 Not A Trifled Person


    Chapter 26 Not a Trifled Person


    "Brendon, I knew you were always the best to me!"


    "Alright, enough of acting like kids!" Brendon indulged her tantrum, a faint smile ying on his lips.


    Shannon gently took hold of Brendon''s hand, tilting her chin upward, her doe-like eyes innocent yet


    alluring, her red lips slightly parted. "Brendon, you promised, you would always spoil me," she said.


    "Hmm!" Brendon lowered his head to look at the document and casually responded.


    "By the way, Brendon... Last time I saw Ranita getting close to Mr. Webster, does she like him?"


    Brendon felt inexplicably unhappy in his heart and said, "Don''t talk nonsense."


    "Brendon, I''m not just talking nonsense here! Ranita is divorced and all alone. If she could find a


    boyfriend to take care of her, then both you and I would feel more at ease!" Shannon looked worried


    for Ranita, as if she was her own daughter.


    "She doesn''t like Dn!" Brendon said in a t tone as he opened the door and got out of the car.


    Shannon had to hurry to catch up with him.


    This was a very stylish restaurant that had been listed in the Michelin Guide, so both the dishes and


    service were excellent.


    Suddenly, Shannon''s eyes lit up as she tugged on Brendon''s arm. "Brendon, is that Ranita over


    there? She''s also eating here!"


    Brendon fixed his gaze and immediately recognized Ranita.


    The woman wasughing, her eyes curved like a bridge and her gaze bright as she spoke with her


    head lowered. Every now and then, she looked up at the other person. Under the light, her facial


    features were very clear and vivid, like a blooming white peony - fresh and incredibly alluring.


    Brendon''s heart gave a hard thump.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Brendon, who is that man? I feel like I recognize his back..." Shannon didn''t mind getting involved


    and held onto Brendon''s arm, saying, "Why don''t we go say hello?"


    "No!" Brendon refused.


    But as luck would have it, their table was right next to Ranita''s.


    So they looked at each other, and everyone fell silent at the same time.


    "Brendon?" Steve Pearson was the first to react, pinching his gold-rimmed sses and asking in a


    cold voice, "What a coincidence, are you here for dinner with Shannon?"


    Steve ran a private hospital. He was also a genius doctor and very handsome, which made him


    extremely popr!


    "Hey, Steve!" Everyone in the circle knew each other, so Shannon naturally knew Steve. "Steve, are


    you going on a date with Ranita? This is the first time I''ve seen you eat with a girl since we were


    kids!" Shannon teased with a hint of meaning.


    Steve didn''t respond but instead pushed his sses up and said, "Brendon, take her out for a meal


    quickly! I need to talk to Ranita."


    "Ranita?" Brendon thought, finding it oddly easy to say her name. He grumbled inwardly.


    "Oh my, you''re really nervous about Ranita, aren''t you, Steve?" Shannon leaned against Brendon


    as if she had no bones. "We won''t disturb you two anymore. Ranita, Brendon and I are going to


    eat."


    Although the table was next to theirs, the design inside was very good. There was a screen in the


    middle with some green nts blocking it. Speaking softly wouldn''t affect anyone around them.


    "You and Brendon..." Steve pinched his sses and looked at Ranita with interest. "Shannon is not


    an easy person to deal with."


    "Don''t mention them." Ranita narrowed her eyes and changed the subject: "By the way, this is your


    report that you asked me to proofread. I''ve already corrected it for you."


    Steve had asked her to proofread histest academic research results which needed to be


    published in a professional journal. There were many difficult-to-understand professional terms


    inside and foreignnguage sentence structures were different from theirnguage; once there was


    an error, the meaning would bepletely different. Therefore Steve asked for her help.

 Chapter 27 FriendS Challenge

    Chapter 27 Friend''S Challenge


    Chapter 27 Friend''s Challenge


    "Can you double-check some of the technical terms with me?" Ranita asked, and Steve immediately


    stood up and sat next to her. He handed her his pen and leaned in. "Go ahead, I''m listening."


    "Take a look at this section," Ranita said as she leaned in closer to Steve. Their voices were low but


    focused, and their good looks made them seem even more harmonious together.


    Through the ts of the screen, Brendon could see Ranita''s profile - delicate and fair with pink lips


    that moved as she spoke confidently with raised eyebrows.


    Brendon pursed his thin lips while furrowing his brow high.


    "Brendon, are you going to eat anything?" Shannon asked as she approached him. She took hold of


    his arm and batted her eyshes yfully. "What''s wrong? You look like your mind is elsewhere."


    Shannon knew exactly what was distracting Brendon - Ranita!


    She felt frustrated enough to scream!


    "I''m fine! What do you want to eat?" Brendon turned away from looking at Ranita''s table and picked


    up the menu.


    "You order something for yourself first; I''ll just have whatever you''re having." Shannon replied


    before Brendon randomly ordered a few dishes including steamed fish which he blurted out, "With


    cntro."


    After the waiter left their table, Shannon pouted, "Brendon, when did you start likingtro?"


    Brendon was taken aback by her question.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He pursed his lips apathetically before replying, "Just once in a while."


    He had forgotten that neither he nor Shannon likedtro; it was actually someone else who


    enjoyed it sitting at another table chatting happily with one of his friends.


    Brendon knew that Ranita lovedtro. It was during one of their outings to discuss a business


    deal when she was quietlyining about theck oftro in her fish dish. She ate with her


    cheeks puffed out like a little hamster, and Brendon realized btedly that he had been startled by


    her actions, even choking a little in surprise behind her back.


    Since then, whenever they went out for meals together or attended banquets where steamed fish


    was served, Caleb would always be instructed by Brendon to addtro, which seemed like it


    became a habit over time.


    "Just asionally," he repeated himself quietly under his breath before overhearing Steve being


    praised by an admiring Ranita at the adjacent table, "Dr. Pearson, you are truly amazing! If this


    technology can seed, then many patients will benefit..."


    "Thank you for your kind words! There is still much more for me to learn!" After pausing briefly,


    Steve propped up his chin smilingly saying, "You''re also very impressive! Your word choices are


    precise; You''re one of the best trantors I''ve ever met - no wonder why you''re such an outstanding


    student from Kurima Foreign Studies University!"


    "Don''t tter me too much, Dr. Pearson!"


    "You''re amazing!" Steve really admired Ranita. If she hadn''t married Brendon so early, he might


    have made a move already!


    When Steve went outside to answer his phone, Brendon stopped him. Steve was friendly with his


    friend and smiled with narrowed eyes, asking, "Brendon, what''s up?"


    Thinking of the scene just now, Brendon felt like something had pricked his heart several times. He


    was restless and couldn''t exin why this feeling arose. He frowned and spoke coldly, "When did


    you be so close to Ranita?"


    Steve was also tall and had long legs. He met Brendon''s gaze calmly without haste or dy and


    said honestly, "Ranita is quite famous in Kurima Foreign Studies University. We met by chance and


    later I asked her to help trante academic reports."


    "Ranita is very professional and excellent in this field."


    As soon as he finished speaking, Steve added another sentence, "Aren''t you divorced? I thought


    you wouldn''t be interested in her affairs!"


    Brendon tasted the words from Steve''s mouth.


    Academic reports are highly confidential things that showed that Steve trusted Ranita! And thatst


    sentence even sounded a bit provocative to Brendon.

 Chapter 28 Clumsy Means, But Effective

    Chapter 28 Clumsy Means, But Effective


    Chapter 28 Clumsy Means, but Effective


    As soon as Brendon left, Shannon walked up to Ranita, chin held high and voice sweetly cooing,


    "Ranita, what a coincidence! I never thought that Brendon and I would run into you on our date


    today."


    Unfortunately for Shannon, Ranita wasn''t buying it.


    "Shannon, who you''re dating has nothing to do with me," she replied coolly. Shannon immediately


    looked at her with a hurt expression. "Ranita, did I do something to upset you?"


    Ha! Shannon always managed to get on her nerves.


    "Ranita, don''t be mad at me! If there''s anything that bothers you about me, just tell me and I''ll


    change it! Brendon said that your personality is great and your temper is good too. He wants us to


    get along!"


    Suppressing her anger towards Shannon''s inability to understand human speech properly, Ranita


    replied coldly, "Haha... look at yourself -ing over here all pitiful then acting like the victim again!


    Miss Murphy, please leave before I end up bullying youter."


    Shannon''s eyes welled up with tears as she saw the untouched red wine sitting by their table. She


    quickly poured two sses of wine - one for herself and one for Ranita - apologizing profusely, "I''m


    sorry Ranita! It was my fault; please ept my apology..."


    Without waiting for an answer from Ranita though, Shannon mmed her ss against hers,


    causing the contents of both sses spilling onto them both. Ranita reflexively tried blocking it but


    before she could refuse, the red liquid had already spilled onto Shannon''s chest.


    The ss shattered into pieces, and in panic, Shannon stepped on those shards causing herself fall


    off from chair.


    "Ranita!! What are you doing?!" At this moment, Brendon''s cold voice rang out, making the women


    shiver involuntarily.


    "Shannon, you okay?" he asked while helping her put his coat around her shoulders.


    "Brendon, I... I''m fine," she said through teary eyes, pouting slightly, "It was my fault. Ranita is angry


    because of me. I wanted to apologize but things got worse instead."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Brendon went next door, took his coat back, and turned back towards Ranita, "You shouldn''t have


    laid hands on her. You should apologize now!"


    "Brendon, don''t be angry. Ranita probably didn''t mean it.." pleaded Shannon, hiding behind him in


    his oversized suit jacket. Her face was flushed pink with embarrassment while misty-eyed pleading


    him not to be mad at Ranita anymore.


    But even someone as calm-natured as Ranita couldn''t take being pushed around any longer. She


    snapped irritably, "I didn''ty hands on anyone nor will I apologize either!"


    "Ranita!" Brendon''s eyes were dark and disappointed as he stared at her. "This is the second time!"


    "Brendon, I didn''t do it!" Ranita defended herself. "I didn''t even touch the ss..."


    "Apologize, Ranita!" Brendon''s voice was low and cold, indicating that he was truly angry.


    Ranita felt her heart sink to the bottom of a pit.


    Shannon''s tactics were crude but effective.


    "Brendon, I won''t apologize for something I didn''t do!"


    "Ranita!" Brendon''s anger boiled over as he red at her with icy eyes that turned her heart into a


    block of ice.


    The atmosphere became tense and hostile.


    "Brendon, Ranita definitely didn''t mean to do it! It must be because I made her angry... it''s all my


    fault... Brendon, don''t fight because of me. It makes me so sad..." Shannon spoke softly as she


    leaned into Brendon''s embrace and upied his broad chest. She then looked up at Ranita with a


    smile that was full of provocation and pride in her eyebrows and eyes.


    It seemed like she was saying: See? Brendon prefers me!

 Chapter 29 Pressed Against The Wall

    Chapter 29 Pressed Against The Wall


    Chapter 29 Pressed Against the Wall


    Shannon was dirty, and Brendon was in a bad mood, so he didn''t bother eating and left with


    Shannon. As soon as they left, Ranita leaned back in her chair feeling a chill down her spine. Steve


    rushed over asking, "Ranita, are you okay?" The restaurant manager had sent someone to exin


    the situation to him but he still arrivedte. "Sorry, I received an emergency call," said Steve.


    "It''s not your fault," replied Ranita looking up at him with eyes that seemed to have lost their sparkle


    and were now darkened.


    Steve wanted tofort her but didn''t know how. He knew about Ranita''s feelings for Brendon as


    an outsider looking in but unfortunately Brendon...


    "Dr. Pearson, I''m fine," continued Ranita calmly with starry eyes that looked like they had fallen into


    the desert leaving only darkness behind them. "If you''re busy, then go back to the hospital first. I''ll


    go hometer."


    Steve did need to go back to the hospital but he was worried about leaving Ranita alone, "Let me


    take you home before going back."


    Hearing this made Ranita realize that Steve must be busy with work so she quickly responded, "You


    must have urgent business if it requires your attention. Hurry up and leave! Drive safely."


    Steve pushed his gold-rimmed sses up his nose, helplessly saying, "Then I''ll leave first. Get


    some rest when you get home. Call me if there''s anything."


    After walking two steps away from her, he turned around again handing his thin jacket on his arm


    over to her saying, "It gets cold at night, so don''t catch a cold."


    "Thank you, Dr. Pearson," smiled Ranita gratefully showing appreciation for having friends who


    cared for each other.


    But just minutes after Amiya called.


    "Ranita,e pick up your things right now or else I''ll throw them away!"


    Amiya had been humiliated by Ranitast time they met, which made Amiya even more hostile


    towards her than before.


    Ranita hurried to Bouldend Mansion.


    At the entrance, she received special treatment. The people at Bouldend Mansion were used to


    serving her, but their attitude had turned cold since she left.


    After waiting for about twenty minutes, the iron gate of Bouldend Mansion finally opened to let her


    in.


    "Miss Bowman, please watch your step, and be careful not to damage anything identally. You''ll


    be held responsible for any damages!" the servant leading her warned in a sarcastic tone.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita pretended not to hear and walked with confidence, heading up to the second-floor master


    bedroom. Just before entering, the servant reminded her once more, "Miss Bowman, please be


    quick, Mr. Stuart doesn''t like outsiders in his room."


    The servant''s name was Addyson Calderon, and she was the daughter of Macy, Amiya''s caregiver.


    Her good looks and college degree were whatnded her a job at Bouldend Mansion.


    When Ranita married into the Stuart family, Addyson had just started working at Bouldend


    Mansion. She had always been hostile towards Ranita from the start. At first, Ranita didn''t know


    what she had done to offend her butter overheard Addyson talking about how much she admired


    Brendon. She envied Ranita for being Mrs. Stuart despite having no power or influence.


    But now all of that was irrelevant.


    Ranita nced briefly at Addyson before pushing open the door to her room - a ce where she


    had lived for three years and could navigate even with her eyes closed.


    There was a faint scent of cold perfume in the air as she walked through the bedroom into the


    closet area where she quickly packed her suitcase without batting an eye before turning off the


    lights and leaving.


    She walked through the bedroom into the adjoining dressing room, swiftly retrieved her suitcase,


    and packed her belongings without batting an eye. Then, she turned off the lights and left.


    Although it was dimly lit, Ranita recognized his familiar scent immediately making shivers run down


    on spine while hearing his deep voice asking, "Ranita?"

 Chapter 30 She Admits Her Mistake

    Chapter 30 She Admits Her Mistake


    Chapter 30 She Admits Her Mistake


    Their eyes met.


    Ranita couldn''t help but swallow her saliva. The man had just finished showering and was only


    wrapped in a bathrobe. Water droplets from his hair dripped onto his long neck and slid down the


    defined muscles into the robe.


    The scent of cedarwood filled the air.


    Ranita''s heart raced as if it were about to jump out of her throat! He was so close that she could see


    the sharp bridge of his nose when he lowered his gaze. His hot breath brushed against her earlobe,


    making her skin tingle with heat, like she had been rubbed with chili oil - burning hot!


    Even through twoyers of fabric, Ranita could feel the warmth emanating from him! It felt like a


    bundle of oily fire being poured over her body, leaving her mind nk and buzzing.


    "Brendon... let go." Ranita''s voice trembled uncontrobly.


    She never expected Brendon to be in the room, let alone pinning her against the wall like this.


    Brendon seemed surprised too. He stared at her for a few seconds with dark eyes before clearing


    his throat coolly, "What are you doing here?"


    Brendon was taken aback. He heard some noiseing from the room after he got out of the


    bathroom and thought it was one of their maids sneaking in there! But as soon as they made eye


    contact, he recognized who it was right away.


    He held onto Ranita''s soft wrist tightly while wrapping himself around her body. The familiar warmth


    and scent invaded all his senses at once.


    Brendon felt an inexplicable me ignite within him that left him feeling parched. His deep-set eyes


    flickered with hidden emotions like an abyssal pool stirred by waves beneath its surface.


    Ranita forced herself to exin, "I came back to pack my things. I''m sorry for disturbing you."


    Her voice sounded cold now that things had turned sour again between them after meeting again so


    unexpectedly.


    "I''ll leave now..." She didn''t finish speaking before Brendon tightened his grip on her wrist even


    more firmly.


    "Why do you have to make things difficult for Shannon?" Brendon furrowed his brows deeply while


    speaking in an even colder tone than before.


    T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita''s emotions were in turmoil, and she couldn''t even feel the pain in her wrist anymore.


    "Brendon, am I that disgraceful in your eyes?" she asked.


    "So you''re saying Shannon falsely used you?" Brendon paused, his eyebrows furrowing even


    deeper. "Shannon is gentle and kind-hearted. She wouldn''t do something like this."


    Ranita looked calmly at Brendon. After three years of hard work, she was no match for one


    sentence from Shannon!


    She didn''t see the point in arguing any further. "Brendon, since you''ve already made up your mind


    about the oue, let it be!" Ranita struggled to free her wrist and red at him. "Please let go!"


    "What do you mean ''let it be''?" Brendon''s anger was starting to boil over as he pressed closer to


    her. "Is it really that hard for you to admit your mistake?"


    "Admitting my mistake isn''t hard," Ranita said firmly and directly with a hint of choking sadness in


    her voice and misty eyes due to grievance. This was the first time she had been so vulnerable


    despite beingposed when facing Brendon before. "But I won''t apologize to Shannon because I


    did nothing wrong."


    "I saw it with my own eyes! Why are you still trying to deny it?" The coldness of his tone was


    oppressive as veins bulged on his arm due to anger.


    Ranita''s back hit the wall as he approached her aggressively; amidst the icy chill spreading through


    her body came a heart-wrenching ache.


    She knew that if she didn''t admit fault now, someone would never forgive or forget what happened.


    A bitter smile flickered across Ranita''s lips before fixing on him with a hoarse voice, "Brendon... I''m


    not denying anything anymore. I admit my mistake... can you please let me go now?"

 Chapter 31 So Angry

    Chapter 31 So Angry


    Chapter 31 So Angry


    "You hurt my hand," Ranita said calmly, but her eyes remained fixed on Brendon.


    She dared not blink, afraid of revealing her emotions, afraid of shedding heavy tears, afraid of being


    seen as pitiful and pathetic in front of Brendon. She was scared that she would lose all dignity in


    front of him.


    The grip on her wrist finally loosened and the steam and cold fragrance dissipated a bit. Ranita


    lowered her head and pulled her suitcase out.


    After she walked a few steps away from him, the man suddenly called out to her again, "Wait!"


    Ranita stopped but did not turn around. "What else do you want?" she asked.


    His footsteps approached rapidly behind her and his shadow loomed over her head once again


    blocking off the path ahead. Brendon''s gaze fell upon Ranita''s coat for a few seconds before he


    spoke, "Ranita, I can overlook what happened with Shannon but you know that I''m friends with


    Steve right?"


    "After our divorce, I shouldn''t have cared about your personal affairs anymore but you shouldn''t be


    ying both sides - flirting with Dn while also trying to get Steve''s attention."


    Was she involved with Steve?


    Ranita interrupted calmly, "Brendon, you''re overthinking things! Although Dr. Pearson is very nice to


    me just like how we are now, it''s purely professional rtionship between us two."


    She paused for a moment before continuing in an ufortable tone, "Mr. Stuart, you can rest


    assured that I won''t let things be awkward between you guys."


    Brendon felt frustrated inside.


    How could Stevepare to him? He was supposed to be Ranita''s man! Was Steve even one at


    all?


    "You always know where to draw the line!" Brendon maintained his indifferent expression as he


    reached out towards Ranita, "Give me your coat. I''ll pass it on to Steve."


    Ranita was feeling uneasy. It was a bit chilly outside, and she didn''t have her jacket. What would


    happen if she caught a cold?


    "Can''t bear to part with it?" Brendon drawled out the words slowly, but there was a hint of sarcasm


    in his tone that made Ranita''s chest feel tight.


    What did he mean by "draw the line"? She had already divorced and terminated her contract with


    Stuart''s Corp. What more restraint did he expect from her?


    Ranita gritted her teeth and replied, "Thank you for your kind offer, Mr. Stuart. Although I don''t have


    any special rtionship with Dr. Pearson, this is his kindness to me. I will wash it clean myself and


    return it to him without troubling you."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Oh yeah, I spoke too fast earlier! Mr. Stuart, you have Miss Murphy, but as someone who walks


    alone like me can get lonely too. If I find another man or not is my own business." Ranita continued


    before Brendon could say anything else, "Who knows if Dr. Pearson and I are really meant to be


    together!"


    Ranita left without looking back at Brendon''s scowling face after finishing speaking.


    But as she walked away carrying her suitcase down the hallway, Ranita began regretting what she


    said earlier. She felt bad for dragging Steve into the mess between herself and Brendon.


    She thought about apologizing next time they met, but wondered if Steve would even care...


    "Miss Bowman, you''re so slow!" Addysonined as soon as she stepped out of the room.


    "Hurry up!"


    Addyson had been standing outside their door when she heard noisesing from inside. She


    knew that Brendon hade back, and worse, she saw him holding onto Ranita tightly. Addyson


    couldn''t help but clench her fists in anger, wishing that she could crush Ranita underfoot!


    Fuming with anger, she couldn''t resist making snide remarks, "Miss Bowman, could you walk any


    slower? Miss Murphy will be back soon, and if she sees you here, she won''t be happy! Now, Miss


    Murphy is Mr. Stuart''s precious treasure, and also Mrs. Stuart''s apple of eye. You can''t afford to


    offend them."

 Chapter 32 Not Easy To Bully

    Chapter 32 Not Easy To Bully


    Chapter 32 Not Easy to Bully


    Ranita stopped in her tracks and looked at Addyson with a faint expression. Addyson, on the other


    hand, became more aggressive and rolled her eyes, "What are you looking at? You''ve been kicked


    out of here, thinking you''re still the madam of the Stuart family!? A fallen phoenix is not as good as


    a chicken! Hmph!"


    "Addyson!" Ranita''s expression remained calm. "It''s my business whether Shannon offends me or


    not. As for you... you took at least five bottles of expensive face cream from my dressing table, two


    bracelets, and a designer bag. That adds up to over forty thousand dors!"


    "You... I didn''t do that!" Addyson was almost jumping up in anger. "Miss Bowman, don''t talk


    nonsense!"


    "I''m not talking nonsense," Ranita said coldly after pausing for a moment. "Go to your room and


    look for them yourself if you don''t believe me. The face cream might be used up already but the


    bracelets and bag should still be there right?" She sneered, "Addyson, those things are all from


    department stores with unique codes inside! Do you want to confront me at the police station?"


    "You... stop using me falsely!" Addyson was scared because Ranita had hit it right on target!


    She had used up all of that face cream long ago but she couldn''t bear to throw away those branded


    bracelets and bag since they were meant to show off outside.


    "Do I need to call the police then?"


    One sentence made Addyson tremble, "What do you want from me?"


    "If you have done something wrong, then keep a low profile instead of bumping into others'' hands."


    Ranita felt like she didn''t need those things anymore since she left Bouldend Mansion so there


    was no point in pursuing it further but Addyson insisted on bringing trouble upon herself.


    "Do I look like an easy target?"


    Thest sentence made Addyson dete instantly like a drowning chicken with tears in her eyes


    begging for mercy, "Miss Bowman... I''m sorry... my mouth got ahead of myself! Please forgive me."


    "Please don''t tell Mrs. Stuart or my uncle about this." Although Addyson was also a college student


    who knew how to please Amiya and Holly well enough, stealing would cause trouble beyond just


    offending the Stuart family members; Robert would definitely give her some punishment too!


    The worst part was that she might lose this job!


    "These suitcases..."


    "I''ll help you move them out!" Addyson immediately bent down respectfully helping Ranita carry


    things carefully while apanying her saying goodbye politely, "Take care, Miss Bowman!"


    Ranita''s gaze passed over Addyson andnded on Holly, who had hurriedly arrived. She then


    smiled ambiguously and said, "Thank you, Miss Calderon. I hope you have a pleasant life!"


    Addyson kept her head down and dared not say a word. She only felt relieved when she saw Ranita


    get on the car and leave. However, her relief was short-lived as Holly pped her before she could


    react.


    T¨ºxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Addyson, you are my family''s dog. What are you doing, fawning over that despicable Ranita? If you


    want to follow her, I''ll make it happen!"


    Faced with Holly''s rage, Addyson couldn''t express her grievances. She covered her burning cheek


    and apologized, "Miss, I was wrong. I''m sorry!"


    "Sorry? Haha, what''s the use of an apology? You pretend to be loyal in front of me but act differently


    behind my back. I''m going to tell Robert and have him kick you out!"


    Upon hearing this, Addyson''s legs went weak.


    She deeply regretted getting involved with Ranita. How could she have imagined that just a few


    words would lead her into this situation?


    But at the same time, Addyson was filled with anger!


    If she were to be driven away, it would all be Ranita''s fault! If Ranita hadn''t threatened her, she


    wouldn''t have been misunderstood by Holly!


    In conclusion, the biggest mistake was Ranita''s!

 Chapter 33 Unworthy Of Bearing A Child For The Stuart Family

    Chapter 33 Unworthy Of Bearing A Child For The Stuart Family


    Chapter 33 Unworthy of Bearing a Child for the Stuart Family


    "Miss, I know I was wrong!" Addyson tried to shift the me, making excuses, "Ranita was too


    much. She said that I was just a servant of Bouldend Mansion and she was a guest, so it''s only


    right for me to be respectful towards her! And before, she gave me a bag as a gift but now she''s


    threatening to use me of stealing it and even saying she''ll call the police on me. I had no choice


    but to do what I did."


    "What?" Holly''s attention was indeed diverted as she smirked, "You''re a servant of Bouldend


    Mansion, not hers! She really has some nerve!"


    "That''s right! When I asked her to leave quickly, she threatened me and even said that she would


    take me to the police station. Miss, you have to help me out!" Addyson wiped away tears and snot


    while ying up her innocence.


    Holly let Addyson off this time and directed her anger towards Ranita instead.


    "Addyson, enough! This time it''s not your fault!" Holly sighed in relief. "But let me warn you, if you


    dare act like an obedient dog again next time, then don''t me me for being merciless!"


    Addyson escaped punishment this time but her resentment towards Ranita reached its peak.


    If given the chance, she would definitely make Ranita pay!


    At another vi in Bouldend Mansion, Shannonined tearfully to Amiya, "... Auntie, I really


    hate Ranita. She acts obediently in front of you and Brendon but bullies me behind your backs!"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Amiya believed every word Shannon said without hesitation.


    "How dare Ranita treat you like that? She must have some nerve!" Amiya mmed the table in


    anger. "Don''t worry about anything else. Focus on preparing for your concert during this period of


    time and leave everything else up to me! By the way... since you''vee back home after such a


    long absence... I''m nning on hosting a wee banquet for you here if ours isn''t convenient."


    Speaking about the Murphy family made Amiya sigh involuntarily, "You... since you''vee back


    home, why don''t apologize properly? Your parents and brothers all love you so much; as long as


    you show some humility, they won''t say anything anymore!"


    The Murphy family kept things low-key in Kurima so they wouldn''t agree with Shannon pursuing an


    entertainment career. However, Shannon insisted on going against their wishes these past three


    years!


    "... My dad is such an old-fashioned person," Shannon pouted while humming discontentedly. "I''m


    an artist yet he insists on lumping us together with those actors who perform ys. No way am I


    going back willingly!"


    Shannon continued whining when seeing that Amiya didn''t seem very supportive, "Auntie, please


    don''t worry too much about it. My mom along with my brothers already talked with him about it.


    They promised they''d convince him so that all will be well."


    Shannon held onto Amiya''s arm affectionately, "Actually, Auntie¡­this trip back home is mainly


    because of Brendon..."


    "I know, of course! Brendon has already divorced Ranita, and you should have settled down earlier,"


    Amiya said.


    "Thank you, Auntie!" Shannon had been waiting for this sentence and smiled happily. "Auntie, you


    are really too kind! I like you the most!"


    "Tsk tsk! I don''t believe it! Isn''t Brendon your favorite?" Amiya joked with a joyful mood. "After you


    get married early, give me a grandchild soon, okay?"


    At these words, Shannon''s heart skipped a beat.


    Shannon pretended to ask, "Auntie, let me ask you... I mean if... if Ranita has Brendon''s child,


    would you..."


    Amiya snorted coldly, "Brendon is not so reckless. He won''t leave behind such hidden dangers! Is


    she worthy of giving birth to the Stuart family''s child?"

 Chapter 34 The Same Umbrella

    Chapter 34 The Same Umbre


    Chapter 34 The Same Umbre


    "Don''t overthink it!" Amiyaforted Shannon. "Three years ago, Brendon was also helpless. His


    grandfather forced him to do it, and he had no choice but to sacrifice you."


    Shannon rubbed her eyes and generously said, "I''m not sacrificing anything! It''s only Brendon who


    is sacrificing!"


    ...


    Ranita breathed a sigh of relief and felt pretty good. However, she regretted not being able to


    witness the dog-eat-dog trick with her own eyes!


    She opened the trunk of the car and was about to bend down to lift the suitcase when she suddenly


    heard Brendon''s voice behind her, "Ranita!"


    Startled, Ranita red at him angrily. "You scared me to death!"


    Brendon didn''t get angry after being red at. Instead, he softened his gaze and called her a


    coward.


    Sometimes when Brendon came homete, he would suddenly scare her like this before hugging


    her waist and fooling around with her in bed.


    Ranita''s expression turned cold as she asked, "What do you want?"


    "I told you not to wear Steve''s jacket!" With that said, Brendon forcibly took off the jacket on Ranita''s


    body before taking off his own jacket and throwing it at her. "Wear this one instead!"


    Ranita really hated this kind of behavior from him - clearly heartless but always giving her unrealistic


    expectations.


    That night Ranita couldn''t sleep.


    The next day at work, Ranita wore a professional suit as usual, but changed into three-inch heels


    instead of seven-inch ones. She had long straight legs and was very slender even without high


    heels on.


    "Mr. Stuart..." Ranita met Brendon at thepany door. They were going to an auction today, and


    several valuable auction items were shipped in by charter from abroad. Brendon was going there for


    a look, and will have dinner with the owner of the auction items along the way.


    The individuals who can produce these auction items are either wealthy themselves ore from


    well-known artistic families in the area. This type of dinner was worth Brendon attending in person.


    "Have you looked over the information Caleb gave you?" Brendon asked while looking at the


    documents. "You only need to be responsible for Mrs. Cather."


    The night passed without incident for both of them.


    "Um..." She had been doing well with what Brendon had assigned her, "I have already contacted the


    apanying trantor on their side, so there shouldn''t be any mistakes."


    Silence filled the car ride.


    At some point outside, rain began to fall and created a misty white fog.


    Suddenly, after a few honks, the car stopped.


    "What''s going on?"


    "Mr. Stuart, I''ll go check it out. You and Miss Bowman wait here!" The driver went to inspect what


    was happening with the car and soon returned with a frown on his face, "Mr. Stuart, the car won''t


    start and we don''t know why!"


    "I contacted Caleb; he said he would send another car over immediately to pick you up."


    Ranita checked her watch; they only had thirty minutes left until their scheduled time! Waiting for


    Caleb''s arranged transportation wouldn''t make it in time!


    "Mr. Stuart, we don''t have enough time!"


    Brendon nced at his watch before gesturing towards Ranita, "We''ll just take a taxi."


    Upon hearing that they were going to take a taxi instead of waiting for another vehicle caused


    concern from their driver, "How can this work... Mr. Stuart... It''s still raining outside! Why not wait..."


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    But Brendon waved him off saying, "Umbre!"


    Brendon took the umbre expressionlessly and got off the car first, then turned around and looked


    down at Ranita. "Aren''t youing?" he asked.


    "Huh?" Ranita raised her eyebrows in surprise, but quickly got off the car and hid under his


    umbre.


    The ck umbre was wide, but Brendon upied most of the space. The two of them were a


    little cramped inside.


    To keep her distance, Ranita tried to lean outwards without being obvious. But in the next second,


    she felt Brendon''srge hand pressing down on her shoulder.


    He frowned slightly and spoke with a hint of annoyance in his voice. "Come closer."

 Chapter 35 WonT Eat You

    Chapter 35 Won''T Eat You


    Chapter 35 Won''t Eat You


    "I''m not going to eat you!" Brendon''s voice was particrly low and pleasant amidst the sound of


    rustling rain. With a strong pull, he forcibly pulled her closer to him.


    Ranita''s heart felt like it had been tugged as well.


    "Thank you..."


    "If your clothes get wet, there won''t be any new ones for youter!" Brendon paused before adding,


    "Mrs. Cather is a picky person."


    Capitalists were indeed capitalists.


    It seemed that he just didn''t want her to ruin Stuart''s Corp''s image.


    Ranita pouted slightly, feeling relieved in her heart. Being infatuated and reluctant would only be


    detrimental to herself in the end.


    The location Ranita ordered the taxi from was at the bus stop next door.


    Due to the rain, it would take eight minutes for the driver to arrive. Ranita peeked out anxiously


    waiting for the car, afraid that it might pass by and waste more time.


    Suddenly, Ranita heard two eighteen-year-old boys next to her whispering about her.


    "Wow! Those legs are amazing!"


    "They''re so fair and straight! And she looks really pretty... Should we ask for her phone number?"


    "She must be older than us though? Shall we go together?"


    As young boys whispered while stealing nces at Ranita, she remembered being young herself


    and noticed their youthful admiration and amazement in their eyes.


    Although it was impolite, Ranita felt that they had no ill intentions. Sensing that Ranita was also


    watching them, the big boy suddenly blushed shyly but his eyes shone brighter as he eagerly


    wanted to approach and chat with her.


    Just then...


    "Click!" The sound of an umbre opening came from above Ranita''s head. A huge shadow loomed


    over her, enveloped in the cold fragrance of cedarwood. His shirt brushed against her arm, leaving


    a faint warmth.


    Therge umbre arced through the air like a ck petal blocking Ranita''s legs andpletely


    isting her within its dark canopy.


    The man was tall and coldly nced at the two big boys before reaching out to touch the woman''s


    shoulder.


    "What happened?" Ranita instinctively wanted to step back but bumped into the umbre with


    nowhere to go.


    What was Brendon doing? Why was he suddenly acting weird?


    "Step forward a bit, there''s water on your shoulder!" Brendon found an excuse.


    "Oh? Really?" Ranita foolishly agreed and reached out to touch her shoulder only to identally


    brush against Brendon''s hand - warm and hot enough for her heart rate to spike up in surprise.


    "I''m sorry!" With lowered eyes, she tried hard to calm down her sudden violent heartbeat. "I didn''t


    mean it."


    Brendon''s thoughts were all focused on those two little punks nearby who thought they could hit on


    Ranita even though they were young! Dream on! He flicked off some water droplets from her


    shoulder while still keeping hisrge umbre firmly blocking them both in, "It doesn''t matter... Is our


    ride here yet?"


    Still indifferent as ever...


    Ranita inwardly sighed at herself for being so weak-willed!


    "Almost here!" Ranita eximed, and the car arrived. "Mr. Stuart, this is a regr car, so the


    environment may not be as good. Please bear with it."


    Brendon pursed his lips, his long and thin lips carrying a hint of moisture. "I don''t seem to be that


    demanding."


    "Just a routine reminder. I know you''re a very good person!"


    "Well if I''m so good, why not renew the contract?" Brendon suddenly said something out of


    nowhere, and it took Ranita a few moments to react.


    Why else!


    Of course it was to stay away from him and their unborn child! Otherwise she wouldn''t be able to


    bear the millions of dors in employment fees paid by Stuart''s Corp every year!N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

 Chapter 36 Bad Woman

    Chapter 36 Bad Woman


    Chapter 36 Bad Woman


    "Mr. Stuart, haven''t I already exined this to you?" Ranita didn''t want to repeat herself, as telling


    lies too often could lead to inconsistencies.


    "Please get in the car!" Ranita opened the door for Brendon, but he held up his umbre. "You go


    ahead! I''ll put away the umbre."


    As a gentleman, that was indeed what he should do.


    Ranita got into the car and handed Brendon a handkerchief from her bag. His suit was custom-


    made by hand and using tissues after getting wet would leave some debris behind. Therefore,


    Ranita always had two handkerchiefs in her bag for taking care of Brendon''s needs. She really was


    morepetent than a nanny when it came to looking after him.


    The car quickly arrived at the auction house. After getting out of the car, Brendon handed Ranita


    back her handkerchief and said, "I can''t reach my shoulder de."


    Ranita hesitated for a moment before epting it since it was business-rted anyway and gently


    wiped away any water droplets on his back.


    "All done!" As she spoke, she noticed that his tie was crooked and instinctively reached over to


    straighten it out, "Your tie is crooked."


    Diligent as usual, she seemed like yesterday''s angry Ranita never existed; perhaps that had only


    been an illusion on his part.


    His soft fingers slid over his Adam''s apple inadvertently. An unfamiliar yet secretive emotion


    suddenly broke through within him. He wanted to grasp onto it tightly and carefully figure things out


    but was abruptly interrupted by someone else.


    "Brother! You finally made it!" Holly wore a Chaneldylike dress with a designer purse slung over


    her arm as she rushed towards Brendon with a beaming smile while pushing Ranita several steps


    away from them both.


    "What are you doing here?" Brendon remained cold towards Holly just like how he treated everyone


    else around him.


    "My friend Anna said she came with her mother today because they wanted me to apany them


    at the auction house so I came along!" Holly mentioned Anna who happened to be Mrs. Cather''s


    daughter whom Holly met when studying abroad years ago.


    Mentioning Anna caused Holly''s eyes to narrow smugly at Ranita!


    She had said a lot of bad things about Ranita on the phone. She was so close to Anna, she would


    definitely mention it to her mother Mrs. Cather and if Mrs. Cather got a bad impression, let''s see


    what Ranita could do!


    Ranita frowned and immediately guessed something.


    In the reception room of the auction house, Ranita met her VIP guest for this time, Mrs. Cather, and


    her daughter Anna. Anna probably knew her and looked at her curiously as soon as they met before


    whispering in Mrs. Cather''s ear, "Mom, that''s the bad woman Holly was talking about..."


    "Anna, mind your manners," Mrs. Cather interrupted her but when she looked at Ranita she held up


    her head high with a scrutinizing gaze.


    "Mrs. Cather, Miss Anna! I am responsible for receiving you!" Ranita had a talent fornguage; she


    spoke English and Arabic fluently and also knew some Italian.


    Anna looked embarrassed; she didn''t expect that what they were just discussing would be heard


    clearly.


    "I''m sorry my daughter wasn''t very polite just now." Mrs. Cather nodded lightly then changed the


    subject directly, "This is Mr. Stuart, right?"


    Her attitude was arrogant but it didn''t help much.


    "Mrs. Cather! I''ve heard so much about you! I''m Brendon!" Brendon leaned closer to Ranita then


    lowered his voice asking, "What did they say just now?"


    "They didn''t say anything!" Ranita casually replied then immediately introduced Brendon along with


    several other guests to Mrs. Cather in trantion.


    After chatting for a while, Brendon led his group of clients on tour around the auction house while


    Ranita followed them all along which made her calves almost cramp from exhaustion.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    During their break, Ranita went straight to the bathroom where she took off her shoes and twisted


    her ankle against the wall before secretly rubbing her sore waist.


    Brendon''s child was such a sissy!


    "Hoo!" Ranita took a break and was about to put on her shoes when suddenly there came a violent


    sound of the door being opened...

 Chapter 37 HollyS Warning

    Chapter 37 Holly''S Warning


    Chapter 37 Holly''s Warning


    "Dada!" As the sound of high heels echoed, Holly appeared with an angry face.


    "Ranita!" Holly stared at her menacingly and kicked off her high heels, cursing, "I''ve seen it all


    today!"


    "Do you have no shame? Just trante it and you have to get involved with my brother! Are you


    that low, that you have to steal other people''s things?"


    Holly rushed over after receiving Anna''s call. Her purpose was certainly to make trouble for Ranita!


    But Brendon was there, talking business all the time. Holly couldn''t find a way to contribute.


    She was so mad at Ranita!


    "Holly... watch your words! The conversation between Brendon and I is normal! Don''t think everyone


    is as dirty-minded as you are."


    "Whoever has a dirty mind knows best!" Holly sneered disdainfully. "You can see it clearly too. You


    know what kind of person you are!"


    Ranita was speechless.


    She really didn''t want to argue with Holly anymore. After all, no matter what she said, Holly could


    always twist it around and make herself right! Ranita''s back hurt from carrying her shoes for so long;


    she had talked non-stop along the way and now didn''t even want to waste a drop of saliva.


    As Ranita bent down to pick up her shoes, she suddenly felt a push from behind. Losing her


    bncepletely, she crashed into the trash can with a loud bang.


    Afraid of hurting her stomach in case she fell on it directly on the ground, Ranita used her hand as


    support but instantly felt intense pain in her wrist due topression!


    "Ranita, I warn you - stay away from my brother! If I see you getting close again next time, I''ll just


    flush your head down the toilet!"


    After cursing at Ranita arrogantly, Holly pushed open the door and left.


    Sitting on the ground, Ranita held onto her sore wrist for quite some time before finally recovering.


    She also felt ufortable in the stomach area. Was something wrong?


    Dn had mentioned that babies less than three months old were most prone to problems...


    Ranita didn''t dare to move. Thankfully, after resting for a while, the difort in her stomach


    subsided and she breathed a sigh of relief. She checked herself over and found that besides her


    wrist, her knee was also slightly scraped. Her fair skin made the redness stand out even more.


    Suddenly, Brendon called her. "Where are you?" he asked.


    "I''m on my way back!" Ranita hastily hung up the phone and tried to stand up with support from the


    wall. But when she went to pick up her shoes, she realized that Holly had broken off one of the


    heels!


    This was really adding insult to injury! How could she wear them now? Ranita huffed in frustration


    as she blew away some stray hair from her forehead and noticed that anger had tinted her cheeks


    pink.


    With a loud "ng," Ranita knocked off the heel of her other shoe too. Although it wasn''t very


    comfortable, at least it looked somewhat harmonious now. She wetted a handkerchief again and


    cleaned up the wound on her knee before tidying herself up a bit and slowly walking out of the


    restroom.


    As soon as she opened the door though, Ranita froze in surprise - Chris? What was he doing here?


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Long time no see? What a coincidence," Chris said with what could be considered as mild smile


    upon seeing Ranita, "Are you apanying Brendon?"


    "Mm-hmm." Nodding slightly, Ranita replied, "Receiving guests."


    "I bought an ink painting from an auction house earlier which I n to give my grandfather as his


    birthday gift," Chris paused for a moment before noticing something on Ranita''s knee, "What


    happened? Did you get into a fight?"


    Ranita didn''t expect Chris would joke around like this; chuckling softly in response, "My heel broke


    off identally while I was walking."


    "That''s too careless!" As he spoke these words, Chris suddenly pulled out Mickey Mouse cartoon


    patterned band-aid from his wallet while squatting down beside Ranita saying, "My little cousin put


    this inside my wallet yesterday but I never thought I''d use it so soon."

 Chapter 38 Sarcasm

    Chapter 38 Sarcasm


    Chapter 38 Sarcasm


    The warmth of the man''s fingers on her wound was gentle. "All set!" Chris chuckled in a low,


    seductive voice. "It''ll do for now, looks cute."


    Ranita looked down at Chris and took a moment to react before sheepishly saying, "Thank you."


    "No problem," Chris tossed the packaging into the trash can and turned his head to catch a glimpse


    of the woman''s face. He cleared his throat before asking, "I''m sorry about that day. I didn''t know you


    and Brendon..."


    "Why so sudden?"


    Chris and Steve were both close friends with Brendon, so when Ranita first met them, they weren''t


    exactly friendly towards each other. It wasn''t until she helped them out several times that they


    started getting along.


    "It''s all in the past." Ranita remained calm and clearly didn''t want to talk about it any further. Chris


    was smart enough not to continue probing and instead said, "Alright then, get back to what you


    were doing. If you need anything just let me know."


    Not many people could get such words from Chris.


    Ranita was pleasantly surprised by this kindness and said gratefully, "Thanks! Your band-aid is


    really useful!"


    "I have something else I need to attend to right now," Chris replied as he hurried off.


    Ranita rushed back into the break room where things were still lively; she breathed a sigh of relief


    as she approached Brendon, "Mr. Stuart... sorry for keeping you waiting!"


    "What happened?" Brendon immediately noticed something was off but kept his expression


    indifferent; he seemed more serious than concerned.


    "Sorry... there was an ident." Ranita wanted nothing more than to expose Holly''s misdeeds but


    had no evidence ¨C there was no guarantee that Brendon would believe her anyway.


    Before she could say anything else, Mrs. Cather had already looked over at them; after sizing up


    Ranita from head-to-toe, she spoke nonchntly, "Bowman, if you''re feeling better, we can continue


    our walk."


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Ranita had no choice but follow along behind her boss once again.


    The auction house hired an international designer to create the space, which was highly artistic.


    The walls and hallways were adorned with carefully selected works of art.


    Holly, holding Anna''s hand, made a strange suggestion, "Ranita graduated from Kurima Foreign


    Studies University and is said to be a top student. She must have great appreciation for these works


    of art. Maybe Mrs. Cather can exchange some ideas with her."


    Being a trantor was manageable for someone with a bit of a linguistic talent, but when it came to


    these works of art, it was clear that they didn''t have as much exposure as the privileged sons and


    daughters of wealthy families.


    Let''s see how embarrassed Ranita will be!


    Ranita nced at Holly calmly and spoke in Italian to Mrs. Cather without any urgency.


    Along the way, Holly only saw Mrs. Cather nodding asionally while talking with Ranita but


    couldn''t understand anything they were saying.


    Holly was getting anxious!


    "Hey! What are they talking about?" Holly impatiently approached one of the English trantors.


    The trantor shook his head helplessly, indicating that he couldn''t understand either, which earned


    him an eye roll from Holly.


    Holly had no choice but to catch up with Anna and secretly ask her, "Anna, what are your mother


    and Ranita talking about?"


    "Oh... they''re discussing those works of art. My mother praised her trantion skills; she thinks


    she''s really good! Is she really that bad? I feel like my mother likes her!" Anna shrugged in


    confusion.


    Upon hearing this, Holly clenched her fists in anger.


    Wasn''t Mrs. Cather picky? Why did she like Ranita so much? Just because she spoke Italian?


    "Holly, maybe you should get to know Ranita more. I think she''s very pretty and elegant in speech,"


    suggested Anna who didn''t quite understand why Holly had such negative feelings towards Ranita.

 Chapter 39 Losing Face

    Chapter 39 Losing Face


    Chapter 39 Losing Face


    Misunderstanding?!


    Holly was about to explode with anger! With a hot head, she took a step forward and approached


    Mrs. Cather, pointing to the disyed artwork on the wall. "Mrs. Cather, I know this painting. It''s by


    Master Andrew..." Before Holly could finish her sentence, she noticed everyone staring at her.


    "Why are you all looking at me like that?" Holly''s heart raced as Ranita gave her a sly smile, making


    her feel uneasy.


    "Holly!" Brendon frowned and gave her an icy re. "Just apany Miss Anna and don''t


    interrupt."


    "I..." Holly felt embarrassed being scolded in front of everyone and red back at Brendon. "Why


    are you so harsh?"


    Brendon ignored her and turned to Mrs. Cather and the other guests with a stiff posture. "Sorry for


    my sister''s behavior; she doesn''t know any better."


    "I..." Holly seethed with anger as Brendon humiliated her in public again! She knew these things


    too; they were taught in school! Was it just Ranita who understood? Just because she spoke


    anothernguage fluently?


    "Shut up! Don''t say another word!" Brendon warned before giving Ranita a look.


    Ranita had no choice but to exin slowly, "This painting called ''Still Life With A Green Box'' is from


    Italian still-life master Morandi..."


    As Ranita continued talking, Holly felt like exploding inside as she held back tears of frustration.


    She got the the name wrong... she lost face!


    Ah ah ah! Inwardly screaming with rage, especially when she looked up only to see everyone


    gathering around Ranita while ignoring poor little clown-like herself!


    Holly''s heart was about to burst!


    "Damn you, Ranita! You did it on purpose - unting yourself after humiliating me!"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Miss, Mr. Stuart asked me to take you home!"


    Holly angrily tried to catch up with the group, but was stopped by the auction house security and


    forcibly taken back to Bouldend Mansion.


    Holly returned home in a rage and rushed over to Amiya, tears streaming down her face as she


    grabbed Amiya''s hand.


    "What''s wrong, Holly?" Amiya saw her daughter crying and immediately asked anxiously. "Who


    bullied you?"


    "Who else could it be?" Holly gritted her teeth and recounted what had happened at the auction


    house. After listening, Amiya patted her daughter''s hand gently. "Okay, stop crying."


    "I know you hate Ranita," Amiya continued indignantly. "But this time you really did something


    wrong! Mrs. Cather is not easy to deal with. If Brendon gets into trouble because of this, he will


    definitely teach you a lesson!" Although she felt sorry for her daughter, Brendon was their support in


    the Stuart family.


    "Mom..." Holly felt even more wronged now. "Whose side are you on? Ranita shamelessly keeps


    approaching my brother all the time and I can''t stand it!"


    "And besides," she muttered under her breath defiantly, "I''m not going to harm my brother."


    Amiya frowned slightly; clearly unhappy about what had happened.


    "That''s enough; let this matter pass." She paused for a moment before handing over a document,


    "Take a look at this!"


    Holly sniffled as she opened up the document; once she read its contents properly though, she


    widened her eyes in surprise, "Is this true?"


    Amiya calmly held onto a porcin cup while sipping tea before replying icily, "Of course it is true! If


    you want revenge on Ranita, then go ahead."

 Chapter 40 Narrow-Minded

    Chapter 40 Narrow-Minded


    Chapter 40 Narrow-minded


    In the Auction House


    "Bowman, you''re an interesting person," Mrs. Cather rarelyplimented people, but she had a


    good impression of Ranita - beautiful, smart and with the air of a wealthy family.


    But Mrs. Cather learned that Ranita came from an ordinary background, so she was very surprised.


    "Thank you for yourpliment, Mrs. Cather! I''m d you''re satisfied with our meeting!" Ranita


    maintained her working-ss attitude, respectful and considerate, "Mr. Stuart has booked a


    restaurant for lunch and I hope you enjoy your meal."


    Brendon only had one hour of lunch break and then had to attend a remote meeting, so he needed


    to rush back to thepany immediately.


    When she heard that Ranita couldn''t apany them for lunch, Mrs. Cather expressed regret and


    gave her a personal business card before leaving.


    "You seem quite popr!" Brendon walked forward briskly and nced at the business card in her


    hand out of the corner of his eye, "It seems like even without Stuart''s Corp., you won''tck


    projects."


    Did Brendon just find out?


    It wasn''t Ranita bragging - when she graduated years ago, her teacher rmended her to go to


    the Foreign Affairs Institute but she refused. Now after several years'' experience in trantion


    circles, she''d gained some reputation herself.


    Working hard enough and even without Stuart''s Corp.''s cooperation, it was still possible to make


    money.


    "Mr. Stuart, you must be joking! This group only has me who can speak some hometown dialect


    with Mrs. Cather. It was just giving face." Ranita put away the business card into her bag while


    looking at Brendon lightly, "Mr. Stuart, the termination contract is already being processed. This


    doesn''t vite any terms, does it?"


    Brendon didn''t know what to say.


    Why was this woman so petty!?


    Ranita had lunch in the studio. As soon as she took two bites of the food, Olivia knocked on her


    office door anxiously, "Ranita, Mia called earlier saying that she''s stuck on highway now, and there''s


    no way she can make it for her project this afternoon. She wants you to help her out."


    When starting up their studio, Ranita had little experience so pulled together Mia Griffiths, a senior


    schoolmate whom she was close with, and Carl Merrill to form the team together.


    All of them were partners in the studio, but each had their own projects to handle. Of course, in


    case of emergencies, they would help each other out.


    "We agreed on two o''clock..." Olivia was both hesitant and anxious. "Mia is really something else.


    She''s only calling now and it''s so rushed!"


    "I know! Let me tidy up a bit and you send me the relevant information!" Ranita packed her things


    and received the location from Olivia when she arrived at the parking garage.


    Ranita took a look and suddenly remembered that Sugar Media was Shannon''s signingpany!


    She suddenly didn''t want to go anymore.


    Just then, Mia sent over relevant information along with an apology call, "Ranita, I''m really sorry! I


    never thought this kind of emergency would happen!"


    "Mia, don''t worry! I''llplete this project well!" What else could Ranita say? If Mia broke the


    contract not only would she have topensate but it would also affect her reputation.


    In their line of work, both strength and reputation were very important.


    Ranita read through the materials while driving. When she arrived at Sugar Media''s building, she


    had almost finished reading everything and had an idea in mind.


    This time she was responsible for receiving an Italianposer Arthur Semeraro who had an


    artist''smon w - nitpicking. But fortunately, ording to contract terms her work scope was


    limited to just two days'' negotiations with Sugar Media. Everything else would be handled by


    Arthur''s assistant.


    "Phew!" Ranita took a deep breath before getting off - little did she know that Shannon was also


    opening her car door across from hers...N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

 Chapter 41 Too Coincidental

    Chapter 41 Too Coincidental


    Chapter 41 Too Coincidental


    Some things and some people, the more you try to stay away from them, the more likely you are to


    encounter them!


    "Ranita!? What a coincidence to see you here!" Shannon''s tone was sweet and surprised, but her


    facial expression was exaggerated.


    Ranita felt a sudden pang in her heart, suspecting that Shannon had deliberatelye to their


    studio. Otherwise, this was too much of a coincidence!


    Just as Ranita was about to speak, another person got out of the car - it was Brendon who should


    have been at work in thepany. The woman''s breath caught in her throat as she frowned at him.


    Seemingly exining for Ranita''s benefit, Shannon linked arms with Brendon and apologized


    profusely, "Brendon, you apanied me for dinner and drove me back here, which dyed your


    work."


    "But I''m really happy though. Don''t be mad at me!"


    "I''m not mad! You can go back to work now!" Brendon usually kept his distance but if he skipped


    meetings just to apany Shannon for dinner and drive her home, then he must have taken an


    interest in her.


    After speaking briefly, Brendon nodded his head towards Ranita''s direction and said, "What brings


    you here?"


    "My colleague took on Sugar Media''s project but something came up so I am taking over for her."


    After exining herself calmly without even ncing sideways or furrowing her brows once, she


    stood quietly by the side.


    Shannon felt secretly pleased in her heart.


    "Well then, since that''s settled, we''ll rely on Ranitater! Brendon, you can head back for now. With


    Ranita''s help, everything here will surely go smoothly!" Shannon said.


    "Ranita is very professional; you can trust her," Brendon added calmly, his gaze shifting to Ranita.


    "Don''t let Shannon upset you. If there''s anything, you can talk to me."


    He hadn''t even left, and he was already worried that she might mistreat someone?


    Ranita suppressed a mocking smile and listened as Shannon spoke softly and vulnerably,


    "Brendon, Ranita is kind-hearted; she won''t do anything to harm me! It was all just a


    misunderstanding before!"


    Ranita bit her lip to hold back her response.


    Once the man had left, Shannon continued to wear her sweet facade, her voice soft and gentle.


    "Ranita, I''ll be relying on you a lot from now on!"


    "It''s just my job," replied Ranita calmly. There wasn''t much to say between her and Shannon, but


    due to their contract, Ranita would remainposed and fulfill her responsibilities.


    "Regardless of anything else, I''m really grateful for your help," said Shannon.


    As soon as they entered Sugar Media''s doors, Shannon called over one of her trusted associates


    and instructed them, "Cindy, prepare a suitable pair of high heels for Ranita."


    With a half-smile on her face, Shannon looked down at Ranita''s t shoes. "Mr. Semeraro is very


    picky. Your outfit looks good but those shoes might not be suitable..."


    In the morning, Ranita''s shoes broke. She had borrowed this pair from Olivia in a hurry to make do,


    and the casual style was definitely not suitable for a professional setting. She had been in such a


    rush that she had forgotten about it.


    Ranita furrowed her brow, wondering how to remedy the situation when Cindy interjected, "Miss


    Bowman, please hurry up. Mr. Semeraro will be here any minute! You can''t possibly receive a guest


    with just one shoe like this, can you? If this upsets Mr. Semeraro and causes us any losses, will you


    take responsibility for it?"


    Ranita reluctantly gave Cindy a shoe size and soon enough Cindy came back with a shoebox in


    hand saying, "Hurry up and change into these!"


    "Shannon! Mr. Semeraro is already in the elevator on his way up!"


    Ranita had no choice but to immediately change into the new heels provided by Cindy before


    mustering up some energy alongside Shannon as they went out to greet him.


    "Mr. Semeraro! It''s been such a long time!" eximed an enthusiastic Shannon as she hugged


    Arthur upon his arrival.


    "My dear friend ¨C it''s great seeing you again!" replied Arthur warmly despite having an Italian ent


    that made speaking English publicly less appealing.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Arthur was an Italianposer with blonde hair and blue eyes who was over sixty years old yet still


    exuded youthful vitality; he was quite eye-catching indeed!


    Ranita, as the interpreter, spoke up immediately, "Mr. Semeraro, I am the interpreterfor this


    asion, Ranita Bowman. Wee to Kurima."

 Chapter 42 Jealousy

    Chapter 42 Jealousy


    Chapter 42 Jealousy


    "Your Italian is really standard! And you''re so beautiful!" Arthur''s first impression of Ranita was very


    good, and he spoke with surprise.


    "Thank you for thepliment! I only know a little bit, but if you need anything, just let me know."


    Ranita was humble and polite, with a beautiful face. Her micro-expressions were handled very well,


    and every smile and frown was just right - she had great charisma.


    Ranita''s beauty waspletely different from Shannon''s - Shannon had big eyes, a high nose


    bridge and an oval face that belonged to the sweet category. But Ranita had superior bone structure


    and her eyebrows and eyes exuded elegance; when she didn''t smile, she looked indifferent but


    when she did smile it was like polished gemstones shining brightly.


    "Miss Bowman, you don''t have to be modest!" Arthur paused dramatically before eximing, "I


    suddenly seem to have inspiration when I see you!"


    "Bring me my cello!"


    Arthur immediately asked his assistant to bring the cello over for an impromptu performance.


    Shannon had a concerting up in a few days'' time which cost her a lot of money tomission


    Arthur topose music specifically for it. Therefore, they spent the whole day discussing musical


    issues while Ranita dutifully carried out her own tasks.


    But these artists never rested or ate once they got busy; Ranita couldn''t leave either so all she


    could do was keep preparing herself. She felt hungry and tired but what worried her most was that


    her legs were starting to ache because of wearing high heels all day long.


    "Miss Murphy, Mr. Semeraro, I''m going to use the restroom." During this lull in activity, Ranita


    decided to take advantage of it by taking a break in the bathroom.


    Seeing how exhausted Ranita looked, Shannon coldly nced at her stomach - she wished that


    she would work herself into exhaustion!


    "Mr. Semeraro, you must be tired after today''s activities! I''ve arranged for Cindy to take you to the


    hotel for some rest. At the same time, I have dinner prepared in the hotel restaurant. We''ll see you


    thereter," Shannon said fluently in English, her tone sweet.


    Afterward, Shannon, with anticipation in her voice, recalled Arthur''s impromptu creation earlier and


    asked, "I really loved that impromptu performance by you just now. Would it be possible for you to


    gift me with a small token of it?"


    Because Ranita didn''t trante what Arthur said earlier about his inspirationing from her,


    Shannon assumed that it must have been written especially for her which made her heart race with


    excitement.


    "... Miss Murphy, although it''s a bit embarrassing to admit, I don''t want to lie..." Arthur apologized,


    "That was actually written for Miss Bowman! She gave me some interesting inspiration!"


    That was an impromptu creation for Ranita?!


    Shannon was not only embarrassed, but her face quickly turned red. Fortunately, Arthur''s assistant


    came over to smooth things over and Shannon regained herposure. She maintained a smile


    and said gracefully, "Mr. Semeraro, you don''t have to apologize! You''ve created several songs


    tailored just for me and I''m already satisfied!"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Cindy, please take Mr. Semeraro to the hotel. I''ll be there in a bit."


    Shannon smiled as she watched them leave and then turned around with anger and jealousy in her


    eyes as she headed towards the studio.


    As Arthur''s group left, the studio became empty.


    Shannon made her way to the bathroom door but suddenly stopped in her tracks. She stared at the


    dark door with a cold expression on her face.


    After a while, Shannon returned holding a bottle of mineral water in hand. She casually opened it up


    and poured it out onto the floor by the bathroom door.


    Ranita cautiously stepped out of the bathroom.


    "Ranita!" Shannon suddenly exploded with anger causing Ranita to startle which made her lose


    bnce underfoot causing her body to sway unsteadily as if she was about to fall...

 Chapter 43 Sprained Ankle

    Chapter 43 Sprained Ankle


    Chapter 43 Sprained Ankle


    The tiles were wet!


    And it seemed that the high heels Shannon gave her were not very slip-resistant!


    In a split second, Ranita''s fingers hit the wall heavily, stabilizing her body but twisting her ankle


    fiercely.


    The piercing pain made Ranita break out in cold sweat.


    "Ah! Ranita, are you okay?" Shannon was anxious and turned around in circles, but upon closer


    inspection, she had no intention of reaching out to help.


    "Ranita, are you okay? Can you get up?" Shannon said with a distressed face. "It''s not that I don''t


    want to help you. We had a misunderstanding before. If youin to Brendon about me, I won''t


    be able to exin myself clearly! I... I..."


    Shannon drooped her eyes and looked very aggrieved.


    But Ranita clearly saw the smile at the corner of her mouth and the schadenfreude in her eyes. Of


    course, Ranita didn''t expect Shannon to help herself either. She took a deep breath and slowly


    leaned against the wall after taking off her high heels on one foot.


    "Thank you for your concern, Miss Murphy. I''m fine," said Ranita calmly. "Mr. Semeraro has gone


    back to rest and my work here is done as well so I''ll take my leave now."


    Fine!? Shannon couldn''t believe it! How could there be nothing wrong when she almost fell down?


    But Ranita was too calm; she didn''t even furrowed her brows!


    For a moment, Shannon couldn''t tell if what she said was true or false.


    "Although Mr. Semeraro has gone back to his hotel room, we still have dinnerter," said Shannon


    eagerly. "If there''s nothing wrong with your ankle, then we''ll need youter."


    "After all we''ve signed contracts!"


    Ranita pursed her lips and suppressed any emotions, "What time does it start? I will arrive on time."


    "At eight o''clock tonight; looking forward for your arrival!" eximed an excited-looking Shannon.


    "Ranita, you muste!"


    Before leaving, Ranita nced at the water stain on the floor, a small patch right at the entrance of


    the bathroom. She remembered it wasn''t there when she went in... Was it Shannon''s doing?


    But for now, Ranita had to bear with the pain in her ankle. As she got into her car and slumped onto


    her seat, she let out a hiss of air. "It hurts so much!"


    Checking her watch, Ranita realized it was already past five o''clock. Going to the hospital to treat


    her wound would take too long.


    Unless...


    Ranita didn''t want to trouble Steve but her ankle was just too painful! She needed a doctor''s help.


    "Dr. Pearson, I''m sorry! I hate to bother you!" Her voice was low and drained as she looked down


    with disappointment.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "It''s okay! I just finished my shift anyway." Steve examined her ankle and found that while left foot


    was fine, the right one had swollen up...


    When he received Ranita''s call earlier on, he asked if there were any injuries besides that which


    brought along an ice pack for swelling, "Apply this on your ankle first."


    "Is there anywhere else that hurts?"


    "No..." Before Ranita could finish speaking though, Steve caught hold of one of fingers, "Half your


    nail is broken off - don''t tell me you''re not hurting!"


    Only then did Ranita realize that indeed one of nails had cracked open and some blood seeped out.


    "Don''t you feel any pain?" Steve opened his medical kit and took out some disinfectant iodine while


    ncing at her from time-to-time through his rimmed sses which made him look very sexy.


    Ranita suddenly remembered the incident and apologized to Steve, saying, "Dr. Pearson, during our


    last meal, we ran into Brendon, and he misunderstood us..."

 Chapter 44 Romantically Involved?

    Chapter 44 Romantically Involved?


    Chapter 44 Romantically Involved?


    "If he says anything strange to you, just ignore him!" Ranita apologized as she looked at Steve. "I''m


    sorry for causing you trouble."


    Steve skillfully wrapped her finger with a bandage and applied some ointment on it. The coolness of


    the ointment immediately reduced the pain.


    "Ranita, even though I am friends with him, who I date is my own decision! Don''t think too much


    about it."


    Ranita felt a bit touched.


    "Thank you!" Ranita sincerely expressed her gratitude to those who showed kindness to her. "I''ve


    caused you trouble. If he gets angry, you can me it on me..."


    Steve adjusted his sses and smiled at Ranita. "Don''t worry, everything will work out. Let me take


    you back to the hospital for an examination."


    Steve drove her back to the hospital. Being pregnant, Ranita easily felt tired. She nestled in the


    back seat and, after a while, surprisingly fell asleep, swaying with the motion of the car.


    Dazedly, she heard Steve calling out to her, "Ranita! We''re here!"


    "Hmm?" Looking at Steve right in front of her made Ranita feel a little confused! Without his sses


    on, his beautiful eyes were revealed while his body had a refreshing scent that made her feel


    comfortable.


    Steve was actually quite nice.


    Steve arranged for someone to take an X-ray for Ranita. Fortunately, there were no bone injuries,


    but she still needed a few days of rest. Applying some ointment and taking oral medication to


    promote blood cirction and remove stasis would be sufficient for her recovery.


    "I bought dinner for you so eat first! I''ll go get your medicine!"


    In the office, whenever she heard "blood cirction" or "stasis removal", Ranita''s heart would beat


    faster than usual as she anxiously grabbed onto Steve''s sleeve, "Dr. Pearson!"


    "Hmm?"


    "Dr. Pearson... there''s something that I want to ask you not to tell anyone." With pursed lips and


    hesitation written all over face, she told him about being pregnant.


    Steve hesitated for a moment, but quickly regained hisposure. "I''ll have someone change the


    medication," he said.


    "Dr. Pearson..."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t worry! I won''t say anything!" Steve turned around and suddenly pressed his palm against her


    head, gently rubbing it as he advised her to eat.


    After all themotion, it was gettingte.


    Ranita had to hurry to the Bulgari Hotel, and of course Steve objected, but Ranita insisted on going


    and Steve had no choice but to drive her there.


    "Ranita, you can''t wear high heels on your ankle anymore!" Steve frowned. "I''ll find someone to


    help..."


    "It''s okay! I feel much better now! Dr. Pearson, your ice pack works wonders!"


    Steve was helpless as he helped her open the car door and personally assisted her out while


    whispering softly, "Don''t force yourself. If you feel ufortableter, give me a call!"


    Ranita chuckled with bent eyes, "Dr. Pearson, you''re such a gentle person."


    Gentle?


    Steve raised an eyebrow but didn''t show what he was thinking, "You''re my friend and my patient;


    naturally I''ll treat you well."


    "Well then I''m off!" Ranita waved at him before heading towards the hotel when she noticed a


    familiar car parked beside her.


    The car door opened, revealing a pair of straight and slender legs stepping out. The neatly tailored


    suit entuated the unmistakably tall and well-built figure, with broad shoulders and a narrow


    waist. Combined with that face, which seemed to be favored by the creator, just one nce was


    enough to make hearts flutter.


    "Brendon?" Steve greeted him while Brendon''s attention fell directly onto Ranita as he asked coldly,


    "Steve, why are you with Ranita?"


    "Oh my! Steve, and look who''s here, Ranita! What a coincidence!" Just then, Shannon cheerfully


    stepped out of the car, linking arms with Brendon, and with a beaming smile, she asked Steve,


    "Steve, are you and Ranita getting romantically involved?"

 Chapter 45 DonT Pretend

    Chapter 45 Don''T Pretend


    Chapter 45 Don''t Pretend


    "Going out for dinner and a date, and even driving her here, you guys have such a great


    rtionship!" Shannon eximed.


    Steve chuckled lightly in response, "My rtionship with Ranita hasn''t developed to that point yet."


    Shannon immediately seized on the key words and tried to stir up some trouble, but Brendon


    interrupted her coldly, "Time''s up, let''s go upstairs."


    Shannon had always been obedient in front of Brendon. "Ranita and I will go up first! Brendon,


    make sure you stay safe," she said.


    "Hmm! Go ahead and don''t bete!" Brendon responded patiently.


    Ranita couldn''t help but nce at him.


    The man''s cold and icy expression softened slightly, and his features followed suit, as if a gentle


    breeze had swept away the ice and snow, bringing a touch of warmth as the spring drew near.


    She needed time to get over Brendon no matter how strong she was. Fortunately, it would only take


    three more months.


    "Ranita, let''s go!" Shannon smiled and pretended to want to hold Ranita''s hand but was subtly


    avoided by her.


    Ranita nodded at Steve, "Dr. Pearson, I''ll leave now! Thank you for bringing me here."


    Her foot still hurt but she endured it so it wasn''t too noticeable.


    "Is your foot still hurting?" After walking out a few steps away from the others'' hearing range,


    Shannon lowered her voice teasingly, "Ranita, you and Steve look like a great match. Do you two


    have something going on? If you do, then Brendon and I would feel much more at ease. Steve will


    surely take good care of you!"


    "Miss Murphy, we''re not close," Ranita replied coldly.


    "Ranita, are you still mad at me?"


    Ranita couldn''t help but feel frustrated. Was that the only thing she knew how to say?


    "Miss Murphy, you''re overthinking," Ranita continued walking forward without looking back, her


    voice light. "These are all my private matters, so there''s no need for you to worry."


    She paused and turned to face Shannon with a cold gaze. "Miss Murphy, Brendon and I have no


    rtionship anymore. The divorce has been finalized. I will start my own life, and it''s none of my


    business what happens between you from now on. There''s no need for you to hold onto me like


    this."


    Shannon looked hurt at Ranita''s words.


    "I just wanted to show that I care about you," Shannon said, biting her lip as tears welled up in her


    eyes. "I appreciate everything you''ve done for Brendon over the years and want nothing but


    happiness for you..."


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Ranita couldn''t take it anymore and interrupted her, "Miss Murphy, I don''t need your concern! And if


    you can''t understand innguage, maybe go back to elementary school."


    "Ranita..."


    "Shannon, stop pretending while Brendon isn''t here!" Ranita snapped before storming off.


    Shannon watched Ranita''s slender figure, her eyes filled with a cold glint. How was Ranita so


    lucky? She had taken a fall at Sugar Media previously and didn''t suffer any consequences!


    Shannon had been hoping for Ranita to have a miscarriage at every moment!


    Outside Bulgari Hotel...


    Brendon stared at Steve with a heavy gaze; he didn''t understand how things hade down this


    path.


    "Sure," Steve agreed.


    Without any further words, the two of them went to their usual private room at the club. After they


    were seated, Steve poured himself a drink and lit a cigarette. With an air of nonchnce, he said,


    "Not at the moment, but who knows in the future!"

 Chapter 46 Maintain Distance

    Chapter 46 Maintain Distance


    Chapter 46 Maintain Distance


    "Steve! If you still consider me a friend, keep your distance from Ranita," Brendon mmed his


    drink onto the table, causing the ice to clink and brown liquid to spill out. The man''s face was cold


    and dark.


    "Brendon... you shouldn''t be so agitated," Steve calmly wiped the table with a tissue and handed


    Brendon his ss. "You had to marry Ranita at that time."


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Had to? Brendon suddenly felt repulsed by that phrase.


    "What about our future rtionship? And your family won''t ept her." Brendon frowned. "I lived


    with her for three years. Even though we''re divorced now, I still hope she has a better life in the


    future."


    Brendon convinced himself that he had some feelings for Ranita after living together for three years.


    It was understandable that he cared about her future.


    "And besides, she''s still my legal wife."


    "Not in a month!" Steve stared at Brendon for a few seconds before taking a big gulp of his drink.


    "Who knows what fate has in store?"


    "Brendon, Ranita is a good woman. You were married to her for three years; didn''t you have any


    feelings?"


    Steve didn''t like Shannon but it was none of his business when it came to Brendon''s private affairs.


    Brendon sat straight-backed with legs casually crossed as he listened intently while lightly rubbing


    his fingers together before finally responding, "I wouldn''t say there were any real feelings between


    us but you''re right. Ranita is indeed an exceptional person!"


    Suddenly Steve remembered what those nursing students used to call guys who treated women


    poorly - scumbags - which seemed fitting for someone like Brendon.


    "Since there''s no love, you divorced her, so don''t interfere with her private affairs," Steve said


    sternly after a pause. "Brendon, we''ve known each other for so many years and you should know


    my personality. This is the first time I''ve taken a liking to a girl. So I hope you won''t intervene."


    "If you think it''ll be awkward for us to be around each other, we can try to see each other less in the


    future." Steve finished his drink in one gulp without changing his expression. "I''m leaving now! Take


    your time drinking!"


    Inside the Bulgari Hotel suite.


    Arthur warmly invited Ranita to dine together, but she politely declined, "Mr. Semeraro, I''ve already


    eaten and I still have work to do."


    Arthur didn''t give up and asked again, "Then just have a ss of red wine!"


    Ranita wasn''t suitable for drinking now and was about to refuse when Shannon joined in with a


    smirk, "Ranita, even though you have work to do, it shouldn''t be a problem if you drink one ss as


    an act of kindness?"


    Now Ranita couldn''t refuse.


    After drinking half a ss of wine, Ranita felt nauseous and wanted to vomit. She found an excuse


    to go washroom where she threw up all the red wine.


    Then like turning on some switch inside her body system, waves of nausea surged up into her


    throat, making Ranita feel ufortable that tears uncontrobly welled up at the corners of her


    eyes!


    After taking several minutes'' restorative breaths while rinsing out mouthwash from faucet tap water,


    she tidied herself before going back outside.


    The restaurant inside Bulgari was very high-end with luxurious decoration that sparkled brightly! As


    soon as Ranita turned out from the restroom door entranceway; she bumped into someone familiar.


    "Brendon... you..." Before Ranita could speak any further, Brendon had already grabbed onto her


    wrist tightly! He was like an angry lion who pushed open the fire door without saying anything else!


    The motion sensor light lit up automatically while dust filled their nostrils upon entering through it


    was threshold doorway entranceway!


    "Ranita!" Apanied by loud yelling sounds, Brendon trapped Ranita between his arms while


    pressing against hard wall behind them both simultaneously too!

 Chapter 47 Out Of Control

    Chapter 47 Out Of Control


    Chapter 47 Out of Control


    Ranita was thrown against the wall with a rough force. "Brendon! What are you doing?" Already


    feeling upset, Ranita exploded in anger at being treated so roughly.


    "What am I doing? It''s what you did, Ranita. You went after my friend and caused him to turn


    against me!" Brendon''s low voice wasced with alcohol as he leaned in close to her ear, his breath


    hot on her skin and leaving a burning sensation.


    It was scorching!


    But his words were so vile that Ranita wanted to bite him right then and there.


    "What are you talking about?" Her heart pounding with anger, her mind buzzing loudly, she pushed


    him away forcefully. "Brendon, you''re drunk!"


    But Brendon quickly closed the distance between them again. He pinned her against the wall with


    both hands and stared at her coldly. "I''m not drunk!"


    What an asshole!


    How could he do something like this if he wasn''t drunk? How could he say such irrational things?


    "Brendon! You''re drunk! We''ll talk when you''re sober!" There was no point trying to exin or


    reason with a drunken person.


    Ranita tried to suppress the rising anger inside of her. "I''ll go get Shannon for you."


    Her ankle had already been injured before; being pulled around by this man made it even more


    painful now that she felt cold sweat breaking out on her back and breathing bing heavier by


    the minute.


    "Ranita! I''m talking to you here! Why do I need Shannon?" The smell of alcohol emanating from


    Brendon became stronger as his eyebrows lifted up in an uncharacteristically wild manner while his


    eyes turned red from drinking too much.


    Not only was he drunk but also seemed somewhat out of control.


    This kind of behavior from Brendon was something Ranita had never seen before.


    "Brendon! Let go! It hurts!" Ranita pushed Brendon''s hand away and leaned against the wall,


    gasping for air.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Due to the pain,rge drops of sweat appeared on her forehead and back.


    "What''s wrong with you?" Brendon also noticed something was off and wanted to get closer to take


    a look, but Ranita stopped him with her hand, "Don''te closer!"


    Ranita endured the pain in her ankle and slowly moved towards the fire door, trying to push it open


    and leave.


    But as soon as she took a step, the pain made it impossible for Ranita to stand still. Her body


    softened and she fell forward.


    "Ranita!"


    The next second, Ranita found herself in Brendon''s arms! The familiar scent wrapped around her


    body, making her shiver all over. But strangely enough, her heart was filled with a sense of security.


    "Are you okay?" Brendon saw that Ranita''s face was pale and he woke up from his drunkenness


    out of concern.


    "I''m fine... Please let go Mr. Stuart." The warmth emanating from Brendon made it hard for Ranita to


    resist clinging onto him forever. She struggled backwards but when she put pressure on her foot


    again, the pain came back again causing her steps to falter as she bumped into Brendon once


    more.


    "Be careful!" The man extended his arm tightly around the woman''s waist! Looking at Ranita''s


    ankle, he asked, "Is your foot injured?"


    The arm wrapped around her waist was lean and powerful, causing Ranita''s heart to suddenly race.


    "I''m fine!" After pausing briefly, Ranitia spoke professionally, "Thank you, Mr. Stuart! Please let me


    go first."


    "Ranita! Shut up!" Interrupting abruptly, Brendon frowned coldly looking at her before squatting


    down, his fingers sping around her right anklemanding, "Lift your foot so I can take a look!"


    No way!


    She didn''t want Brendon getting so close or showing such sudden care. She didn''t want chaos


    within herself or leave behind any expectations again.

 Chapter 48 Always Tease Her

    Chapter 48 Always Tease Her


    Chapter 48 Always Tease Her


    "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Stuart! But I still have work to do, so I''ll be leaving now!" Ranita''s


    foot was grabbed, and she could only step back with one foot.


    Luckily her heels weren''t too high, so she could still use some force with one foot.


    "Ranita!" Brendon pinched her ankle, adding a few tingles to the swelling pain. Ranita couldn''t


    maintain her bnce and fell backwards.


    Brendon reached out again but his movements were hasty. He ended up pulling Ranita into his


    arms and she bumped into his chest.


    His shirt smelled of alcohol and the cedar-like fragrance of his body temperature fermenting. It was


    both pungent and alluring at the same time.


    Suddenly tears welled up in Ranita''s eyes.


    Why was Brendon such a bad guy? She had been trying hard to forget about him but he kept


    coming back to tease her!


    "You''re being restless!" Brendon frowned as he held onto her hand. "Did you sprain your ankle? Let


    me take you to the hospital!"


    "I already went to the hospital! I..."


    "You''ve been there already?" Brendon sobered up quickly now that he had regained his ability to


    think clearly. His dark eyes looked at Ranita intently. "So Steve brought you here?"


    Ranita remained silent for a few seconds before finally admitting it by default with her silence. A


    huge weight lifted off of Brendon''s heart when he heard this news. However, he maintained a stern


    expression as he spoke, "I''ll exin everything to Shannonter on. You can''t work like this


    anymore so go home and rest!"


    He was going to tell Shannon?! That would only add fuel to the fire!


    Despite their past rtionship as husband and wife, since they had separated, they should have


    boundaries between them ording to old customs.


    "My work here is almost done! And my feet are fine, thanks for asking, Mr. Stuart!" Ranita took a


    step back without showing any signs of difort. "Mr. Stuart, I''ll be leaving now."


    "Wait!" Brendon called out to the woman, his tonemanding. "You have ten minutes... no, five


    minutes. Exin the situation to Shannon and thene out. I''ll be waiting for you at the door!"


    "Brendon!" Ranita was furious! How could he expect her to finish everything in just five minutes?


    And who gave him the right to boss her around?


    "So, are you leaving now?" Brendon held her hand, wearing an expression that suggested he might


    just pick her up and carry her if she refused. Ranita was so frustrated she felt like her eyes could


    shoot sparks.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    How did she not realize that Brendon was so infuriating before?


    "Brendon, listen to me! My work isn''t finished yet. There''s no way I can leave in five minutes!"


    "Thene down when you''re done. I''ll wait for you at the door," Brendon insisted.


    "Brendon! If you''re drunk and looking for someone, go find Shannon instead! Please don''t interfere


    with my work! I''m leaving now!" Ranita had enough of his nonsense and didn''t want him leading her


    by the nose anymore.


    They didn''t need this kind of drama between them.


    Meanwhile outside by the fire exit...


    A pair of eyes red fiercely through a crack at Ranita!


    Shannon''s face twisted with anger as she wished she could p Ranita right then and there but


    couldn''t do anything while Brendon was around. She had no choice but to swallow it all up inside.


    "Ranita, wait up!" Shannon thought to herself.


    Ranita retraced her steps back to the private room. Arthur had finished his meal and noticed that


    Ranita didn''t look too well, so he kindly suggested that she go rest.


    This was a huge help for Ranita.


    She thanked him and waited until Arthur''s group left before officially ending her workday with


    professionalism.


    "You worked hard today, Ranita!" Shannon casually handed her a ss of red wine. "I''ll drink to


    you!"


    Ranita was about to decline but saw Shannon inching the ss towards her stomach!


    "Huh? Ranita... why do I feel like you''ve gained weight..." As soon as the words left Shannon''s


    mouth, she balled up her fist and punched at Ranita''s belly.


    "Shannon! What are you doing?" Afraid of harming the child in her womb, instinctively pushed away


    from Shannon...

 Chapter 49 Flew Two Meters Away

    Chapter 49 Flew Two Meters Away


    Chapter 49 Flew Two Meters Away


    "Ah!" A scream rang out.


    Ranita jumped in surprise and looked at Shannon, who had collided with a chair and fallen to the


    ground. She wondered if she had used too much force.


    Why did Shannon fly two meters away?


    It was so fake!


    "Miss Murphy, I only touched your finger. You don''t have to be so dramatic..." Ranita couldn''t help


    but lose her temper. She was sure she only touched Shannon''s finger! Besides, even if she had


    used more force, it wouldn''t have been enough to push someone two meters away like Popeye.


    Shannon was obviously doing this on purpose!


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Ranita had a bad feeling in her heart. Shannon wouldn''t do something like this for no


    reason...


    Sure enough, the next second a familiar voice came coldly, "Ranita!"


    Brendon''s sharp ck eyes were filled with danger and anger.


    "Brendon..." Shannon sat on the ground looking up at the tall man with tears in her eyes and said,


    "My foot hurts so much! I can''t stand up!"


    Upon hearing this, Brendon immediately helped Shannon up and asked gently, "How are you?"


    "It hurts so much! I think I need you to take me to the hospital!" With tears in her eyes, Shannon


    grabbed Brendon''s fingers and nced at Ranita before choking out, "Brendon, I just wanted to


    have a drink with Ranita as thanks for helping me today. I didn''t expect this ident."


    This trick again...


    Ranita felt annoyed and couldn''t help but exin to Brendon, "Brendon, it was actually Shannon


    who bumped into me first. I didn''t expect this ident either."


    At this moment, Ranita finally understood what was going on. Shannon had clearly set a trap for her


    and was just waiting for her to fall into it.


    But in that situation, she couldn''t let Shannon touch her stomach. What if something really


    happened... Ranita didn''t even want to think about it.


    "I didn''t do anything! I just said that Ranita seemed to have gained weight, and then she suddenly


    got angry and pushed me away... Brendon, please believe me!" Shannon choked out the words,


    tears streaming down her face in a heart-wrenching disy.


    "Don''t cry!" Brendon frowned and looked at Ranita with displeasure before handing Shannon a


    handkerchief to wipe away her tears. "Let''s go to the hospital first."


    "But I can''t walk... Brendon, can you carry me?"


    Without hesitation, Brendon bent down and picked up Shannon in his arms. His voice was cold as


    he turned towards Ranita. "Ranita! We''ll talkter."


    Talk about what? Was he going to force her to apologize again likest time?


    "Brendon, I didn''t mean to hurt Miss Murphy." Ranita hung her head low as she spoke in a hollow


    voice devoid of anger.


    Ranita had always been good at managing emotions but right now she felt overwhelmed with pain.


    She thought getting divorced would bring peace into her life but she was wrong; trouble kept finding


    its way back as long as she stayed close with Brendon.


    The private room was now empty.


    Ranita, seemingly unaware of the lingering pain in her ankle, stood there in a daze for a long time.


    Only when a sudden wave of abdominal pain hit her did she plop down into a chair, her face turning


    pale as she clutched her stomach.


    "Ranita! What''s wrong?"


    When Dn arrived, he saw Ranita lying motionless on the table and was scared out of his wits.


    "Dn... can you please take me home?" Ranita managed to squeeze out a sentence with difficulty.


    She really couldn''t hold on any longer.


    Dn was so angry that he couldn''t speak. "How can you go home like this? I''ll take you to the


    hospital!"


    Ranita didn''t have the strength to argue and was picked up by Dn in a hurry and rushed to the


    hospital.

 Chapter 50 ItS Better To Be Kept In The Dark Forever

    Chapter 50 It''S Better To Be Kept In The Dark Forever


    Chapter 50 It''s Better to Be Kept in the Dark Forever


    At the hospital entrance, Ranita was ufortable but still conscious enough to push Dn''s hand


    away. "Dn, let me down. I can walk by myself."


    "Walk my ass!" Dn was really angry. "Look at how pale you are... you''re not walking anywhere!


    Don''t move!"


    Especially on the way here, after he found out what happened, he was so angry that he wanted to


    go and beat up Shannon and Brendon!


    "Dn..." Dn was part of the Webster family, and if there were any bad rumors about her


    because of him, she would feel guilty. "I can walk."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "You shut up!" Dn gritted his teeth and pressed her forehead with his big hand as he held her in


    his arms. "If you say another word, you''ll be on your own!"


    Ranita knew that Dn was angry and sighed, "You''re so mean... be careful or I''ll tell Eve on you


    and have her straighten you out!"


    "She can''t control me now!" Ignoring Ranita''s protests, Dn hurriedly carried her into the hospital.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as they entered, they ran into Brendon and Shannon who were preparing to


    leave.


    "Ranita... what happened?" Shannon sat in a wheelchair with Brendon towering behind her.


    "Shannon, don''t act like a hypocrite here! You know exactly what you did to Ranita?!" Dn couldn''t


    stand being wronged; when he saw people bullying Ranita, he couldn''t help but lose his temper.


    "Mr. Webster... did I do something wrong?" Dn and Chris were brothers, but due to Brendon''s


    connection, Shannon was closer to Chris, and her rtionship with Dn was more on a casual


    level.


    "I didn''t do anything to Ranita. It''s actually because of Ranita that I got hurt." As she spoke these


    words, she stared at Brendon through misty eyes, hoping forfort from him


    Brendon didn''t respond though; instead coldly staring at Ranita.


    How could this woman shrink into a ball snuggled against Dns chest? This kind of posture was


    too intimate!


    One Dn, one Steve, and that damn woman Ranita!


    Brendon''s heart felt like it had suddenly been submerged in water, with bubbles rushing up and


    bursting with a sour and bitter taste.


    "Brendon!" Shannon saw that something was wrong and immediately grabbed Brendon''s sleeve,


    frowning coquettishly. "Say something!"


    "Shannon, don''t be so disgusting in front of me. I''m afraid I''ll vomit up tonight''s dinner!" Dn said


    bluntly without any politeness. "I''m busy over here and don''t have time to argue with you guys.


    Please move aside!"


    Brendon''s anger surged for no reason.


    "Dn, speak more politely!"


    "Sorry, this is just how I am," Dn sneered. He already disliked Brendon before but now he found


    him even more disagreeable.


    What a scumbag!


    That idiot Ranita liked him when she could have liked anyone else!


    "Mr. Webster... don''t target Brendon! Things aren''t what you think they are and you can''t just believe


    everything Ranita says..." Shannon spoke in her sweet voice which made Dn feel uneasy.


    He quickly interrupted her, "Shannon! Don''t mention Ranita... Ranita sprained her foot at your


    studio, and you still insisted on her apanying you for dinner! What if her stomach..."


    "Dn!" Ranita nervously grabbed onto him while giving him a warning look, "Let''s go inside first."


    Dn startled, calming himself down. He had been too impulsive just now and almost let slip what


    he shouldn''t have said! It was Ranita''s child, and Brendon had nothing to do with it! It would be best


    to keep him in the dark forever!

 Chapter 51 Morning Sickness

    Chapter 51 Morning Sickness


    Chapter 51 Morning Sickness


    "On ount of Ranita, I won''t argue with you guys!" Dn backed down, but Shannon''s mind was


    still unsettled. She had been on edge just now, thinking that Dn was going to tell Brendon about


    Ranita''s pregnancy.


    Shannon had probed Brendon earlier and it seemed like he didn''t know anything. Now it appeared


    that Ranita didn''t want Brendon to find out about her pregnancy either.


    "Mr. Webster... Ranita twisted her ankle over at Sugar Studio, but she said she''s fine. How was I


    supposed to know it was that serious?" Shannon lied with innocent eyes and tone. "As for tonight''s


    dinner party, she is the interpreter we hired and needs to finish the job."


    Shannon''s snarky attitude made Dn unable to bear it any longer.


    "Shannon..."


    "Dn, let''s go in already!" Ranita tugged at Dn''s clothes and shook her head at him. He could


    only swallow his anger and say, "I can''t be bothered with you guys!"


    After Ranita left, Brendon stared nkly at her back.


    "Brendon, Ranita doesn''t seem too well. Shouldn''t you go check on her?" Shannon tilted her head


    with watery eyes - so obedient yet so maniptive.


    Brendon snapped out of his daze and sent Shannon off in the car, "You should rest first. I have


    some things to take care of; I''ll be backter."


    "Brendon..." Upon hearing this news, Shannon panicked a little - would Brendon really go see


    Ranita? That couldn''t happen!


    "Go!" Without giving her a chance to react or respond further, Brendon mmed the car door shut.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Fuming with anger now, Shannon clenched her fists tightly as she watched the car drive away


    before pounding on the seat in frustration!


    On their way over, Ranita had messaged Steve; as soon as they stepped out of the elevator, he


    was already waiting there for them, "What happened?"


    "Steve!"Dn greeted Steve hesitantly while ncing over at Ranita who nodded towards him


    saying, "Dr. Pearson knows."


    "Ah..." Dn raised an eyebrow. "I remember Steve is a surgeon, right? Can he handle this?"


    "Don''t worry! I know a thing or two," Steve led the way ahead. "Follow me!"


    With Steve in charge, everything went smoothly.


    After the examination, it turned out that there was nothing wrong with Ranita''s baby in her belly. The


    abdominal pain was mainly due to her injured ankle and exhaustion!


    "You see, your ankle condition has worsenedpared to before!" Steve held the report and


    frowned with a distressed expression. "It would have only taken two days of rest before but now it''ll


    probably take a week!"


    A week!


    That won''t do! There was so much work to be der on; Ranita can''t possibly rest for that long!


    "Luckily, you didn''t hurt your bones; otherwise it would''ve taken months to recover from bone and


    tendon injuries!" After saying this, seeing Ranita''s pale face made him sigh, "It''s best if you rest for a


    few days. If you really can''t avoid wearing high heels, then try not to wear them as much as


    possible!"


    Ranita breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Thank you Dr. Pearson!" Just as she finished speaking, she felt nauseous and sour liquid rushed


    up her throat making tears well up in her eyes, "Ugh!"


    Ranita couldn''t care less about the pain in her ankle; she limped off towards the bathroom where


    she vomited everything out of her stomach!


    "Ranita," Dn helped soothe her while ring at Steve, "Steve, are you sure about this? You said


    there was nothing wrong but why did she throw up like this!?"


    Steve rolled his eyes coldly at Dn, "This is morning sickness ¨C it''s normal during pregnancy!"

 Chapter 52 Sweet Voice

    Chapter 52 Sweet Voice


    Chapter 52 Sweet Voice


    "Ah? Will she continue to feel like this in the future? That''s so ufortable!" Dn said,


    supporting Ranita who was about to pass out.


    "Steve, can you think of a solution?"


    "I really don''t have one!" Steve frowned and asked worriedly, "Ranita, do you feel better?"


    "Dn, Dr. Pearson, don''t worry! I feel much better now," Ranita replied after throwing up and


    feeling relief in her stomach.


    However, Steve was still worried about her and suggested that she stay overnight at the hospital.


    Dn also tried to persuade her but Ranita reluctantly agreed.


    But soon enough, Dn and Steve started arguing again.


    "I''ll stay here tonight to take care of Ranita. You can go back home," said Dn.


    "I''m a doctor. It''s more appropriate for me to stay here! Don''t you have work tomorrow?" argued


    Steve.


    And then they began a five-minute long argument with neither willing to back down.


    Ranita had a headache from their bickering and finally spoke up, "There are nurses here. I''ll be fine


    on my own! Dn, aren''t you supposed to go on a trip tomorrow? And Dr. Pearson, you need rest


    too! Please go home!"


    "No objections epted!"


    Although Ranita said that she would be okay alone at the hospital, no one feltfortable leaving


    her there by herself. Fortunately, Mia arrived just in time!


    Dn had no choice but reluctantly went home while Steve couldn''t continue his examination.


    Before he left he took out a lollipop from his white coat pocket, "Rest well."


    "Thank you!" The candy was colorful - specifically meant for children - but it made Ranita happy


    nheless as it showed kindness without burdening anyone else financially or otherwise.


    Mia watched as both handsome men left and eximed enviously, "Ranita, I envy how easily you


    make friends with handsome guys wherever you go!"


    "It was all an idental meeting!" Ranita paused and smiled. "And you know Dn too!"


    Mia pursed her lips, feeling guilty. "You really went through a lot this time, it''s all because of me..."


    "Why bring that up?" Ranita interrupted her. "You didn''t do it on purpose! You couldn''te back


    because of an ident."


    "Mm..." Mia nodded with lowered eyes, looking uninterested.


    "Don''t worry about it, Mia," Ranitaforted her. "It''s just a sprained ankle, rest for a few days and


    I''ll be fine! But now that you''re back, the remaining tasks at Sugar Media are yours to handle."


    "Okay!" Mia agreed and poured another ss of water for Ranita. She mentioned Carl who had


    taken on a project out of town and wouldn''t be in Kurima for some time. Ranita was worried he


    would be concerned about her situation so she told Mia not to mention anything.


    Mia chatted with her as usual but Ranita sensed something was bothering Mia. She wanted to ask


    about it but Mia received any phone calls and said there were any family issues. Ranita suggested


    she should go back since it waste and the hospital didn''t allow visitors anymore.


    "I''m sorry! Should I let Dne over..."


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Alright! I''m really fine! You go ahead and get busy!" Ranita, who had worked with Mia for several


    years, replied without hesitation, "It''s not like I broke a leg. I can take care of myself."


    Mia apologized again before leaving quickly with her bag in hand.


    The room became quiet after she left and Ranita slowly got off the bed to go to the bathroom when


    she heard creaking from behind the door. Thinking Mia had returned, shezily said, "Why did you


    come back? Just in time though since these shoes seem possessed... I can''t put them on no matter


    what..."


    Her voice soundedzy yet slightly coquettish at the same time.

 Chapter 53 Fool

    Chapter 53 Fool


    Chapter 53 Fool


    This was the first time Brendon had seen such a delicate Ranita.


    His heart felt as if ayer of bubble suddenly rose up, enveloped by sunlight. Even if it were to


    burst, it would be incredibly joyful.


    Brendon stood by the door with thin lips, watching Ranita anxiously trying to put on her shoes with


    her fair and tender feet.


    One of the ankles turned red, as if surrounded by ayer of pink petals.


    Ranita had naturally cold, pale skin. When she was lying in bed, even a slight touch will leave red


    marks on her skin, making it look as if she had blooming roses all over her body.


    When he thought of this, a dark surge couldn''t help but well up in the depths of Brendon''s eyes.


    He had always made it clear that he had no emotional attachment to Ranita, but there was no


    denying that he was obsessed with her body.


    The lingering smell of alcohol quickly made his breath hot and humid.


    "Ah, please help me quickly! I''m in a hurry! I need to go to the restroom... please give me a hand!"


    Ranita urged anxiously after not hearing a response for a while.


    In the next moment, her arm was gripped tightly by a strong force.


    With broad palms and distinct knuckles on his fingers, Ranita instinctively turned her head and


    unexpectedly collided with a pair of dark, deep-set eyes.


    The lighting was dim, but the contours of the man''s eyebrows and eyes were more beautiful than


    the stars in the sky.


    "Brendon... what''s wrong with you..." Ranita didn''t finish her sentence as Brendon grabbed her arm


    and bent down to straighten the slipper and put it by her feet. "Aren''t you in a hurry to go to the


    bathroom?"


    She was in a hurry!


    But the current situation had left Ranita confused.


    When had the master of the Stuart family ever served anyone, let alone help her with her shoes? It


    was outrageous!


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Aren''t you going?" Brendon looked down at her from his height, making her ears burn


    uncontrobly.


    Ranita took a deep breath and pushed his hand away, her face stern. "I''ll go by myself!"


    After a moment''s pause, Ranita added, "Thank you."


    The pressure on her arm disappeared and Ranita inexplicably felt relieved but also a little reluctant.


    She limped a few steps forward before Brendon grabbed her arm again. Ranita''s forehead was hot


    as she said, "No need, I can go by myself."


    But the man''s warm body temperature pressed against hers and his voice was husky and low.


    "Didn''t you just ask me to help?"


    She thought it was Mia so she said so! Suddenly, Ranita remembered how she had acted


    coquettishly earlier and wanted to find a hole to hide in.


    Oh no! Her image in front of Brendon was about to copse!


    "You''re not going in? Do I have toe with you?" In the moment of Ranita''s daze, she found


    herself unconsciously being led to the entrance of the restroom. Brendon helped her turn on the


    lights, his gaze now containing less indifference and more teasing.


    Ranita blushed at his words.


    "No need. I can handle it myself." She quickly closed the door behind her and looked at herself in


    the mirror with cheeks suddenly turning red as she remembered their wedding night three years


    ago.


    Unable to resist, Ranita was taken aback by Brendon''s cold but gentlemanly gesture as he carried


    her to the entrance of the bathroom, urging her to take a shower. She was only wearing a


    nightgown at the time, her neck and chest adorned with love marks left by him.


    That hint of tenderness made the seed of affection in her heart grow into a towering tree.


    At that moment, she gazed at Brendon with hope, thinking that maybe she had a chance.


    "Idiot!" Ranita turned on the faucet and let the cold water wash away her memories.


    Taking a deep breath, Ranita calmed down the restlessness that shouldn''t have been there.

 Chapter 54 Holding Her Accountable?

    Chapter 54 Holding Her ountable?


    Chapter 54 Holding Her ountable?


    "Ranita!"


    Perhaps he had been waiting too long, but Brendon knocked on the door with an echo in his voice.


    "Are you... okay?"


    Ranita''s ankle was swollen and she hadn''t made a sound since entering the bathroom, causing


    Brendon to furrow his brow.


    "I''ll be right out." Ranita took a deep breath and opened the bathroom door to face Brendon''s cold


    ck eyes. She smiled slightly and asked, "Are you here to settle scores with me?"


    "I did push Shannon away, but I swear it was an ident. I didn''t mean to hurt her." After speaking,


    Ranita looked straight at him.


    For some reason, Ranita felt heartbroken as if she were waiting for judgment.


    "Shannon saw a doctor; her ankle is just sprained and not serious." After pausing for a moment,


    Brendon sighed before asking softly, "Do you have any hostility towards Shannon?"


    "You''ve had several conflicts with her."


    As love rivals of each other, how could they not have hostility? Strictly speaking though Shannon


    had more animosity towards her than vice versa.


    "So are you going to make me apologize again this time?" Ranita looked away from him while


    speaking in a low voice that carried some chilliness that couldn''t be detected easily.


    Silence spread between them until Brendon spoke up after a while, "Given recent events, I want us


    to talk properly! I believe that Shannon wouldn''t deliberately frame you, but having followed me for


    three years, I also understand your character. You don''t have any grudges against or grievances


    with Shannon. I really can''t understand why you would target her."


    "Give me one reason."


    So in Brendon''s eyes, Ranita was still the one who was wronged.


    Although Brendon was being rational this time, Ranita still felt wronged because she wasn''t the


    favored one.


    "I wasn''t targeting Shannon," Ranita shook her head. "Whether you believe it or not."


    "Ranita..." Obviously, Brendon wasn''t convinced by this answer.


    "Mr. Stuart, I need to rest now. Please leave! Otherwise, I''ll call for medical help!" Ranita didn''t want


    to continue the conversation anymore. What was the point? Brendon''s scale had always been


    tipped towards Shannon.


    Ranitay on the hospital bed and tossed and turned without being able to sleep.


    "Little baby, your biological father is really not a good person! That''s why I won''t let you recognize


    him and don''t be mad at me."


    Ranita touched her still-t belly and sighed deeply.


    Suddenly, she felt a pulsation in her fingertips that seemed like a pulse - very shallow but Ranita


    could feel it!


    It was amazing and made Ranita widen her eyes in surprise.


    Was this what they called fetal movement? Curiously, she touched it again but the pulsation


    seemed to have disappeared. Immediately, Ranita opened up Dn''s various pregnancy


    knowledge that he sent her earlier and saw that obvious fetal movements only ur after four or


    five months of pregnancy.


    She realized how silly she was since the baby was only as small as a yellow bean; how could there


    be any fetal movements?


    Suddenly an idea struck her: She ced her fingers on her belly tentatively then said aloud, "Your


    biological father is really not a good person!"


    Huh?! Her eyes widened again!


    Oh my god! She actually felt something!


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Your biological father has an ugly face like a turtle with bad hair or he might even be just another


    jerk!" As soon as these words were spoken out loud by Ranitia herself - lo-and-behold -the baby


    inside responded with another strong kick!


    Oh! Ranita was overjoyed! She even had a feeling of triumph. Her child was indeed on her side!


    "Good job, you''re mommy''s good baby. Mommy will find you a rich and handsome daddy in the


    future. We don''t need Brendon!"

 Chapter 55 Anticipation

    Chapter 55 Anticipation


    Chapter 55 Anticipation


    "Giggles, giggles, giggles!" Ranita''s dreams were filled withughter that night.


    She used to have mixed feelings about the unexpected pregnancy, but now she found herself filled


    with anticipation and love for the baby.


    The next morning when Dn arrived, Ranita shared her discovery from the previous night. Dn''s


    eyes widened in excitement as he asked eagerly, "Really? Can I feel it?"


    As Dn reached out to touch Ranita''s belly, Steve grabbed his hand and pulled him back. "What


    are you doing? Men and women don''t touch like that! You have some nerve!" Steve raised an


    eyebrow.


    Ever since finding out they were on the same side of things, Dn no longer saw Steve as an


    outsider. He hooked his arm around Steve''s neck and grinned mischievously. "Don''t you want to


    feel the baby too?"


    Of course Steve did want to feel it but he was a doctor after all!


    Ranita was only two months pregnant so what she felt probably wasn''t fetal movement yet, but


    seeing how happy she looked made him not want to spoil her mood.


    "It is indeed amazing but let''s not scare ourselves since the baby is still small," said Steve after a


    pause before pulling away from Dn''s grip while muttering coldly under his breath, "Don''t get too


    close. We''re not that familiar."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Steve was quite familiar with Chris, but he didn''t really have much of a rtionship with Dn.


    The main reason was that the Webster family dynamics were quiteplicated! Chris was the


    eldest son of the Webster family, and his biological mother passed away. Dn, on the other hand,


    was the child of the second Mrs. Webster! It wouldn''t have been a big deal, but the fact that the


    second Mrs. Webster came into the family with a child made Mrs. Webster and Dn looked down


    upon.


    The privileged second-generation individuals in Kurima didn''t really associate much with Dn.


    However, Dn''s good nature and friendly personality had allowed him to make many friends on his


    own. Additionally, having the support of the Webster family and his own business endeavors, he


    had been able to establish himself with confidence and sess.


    "Steve, why are you being so polite? If you''re friends with Ranita, then you''re my friend too!" said


    Dn before suddenly remembering Shannon. His expression turned serious as he asked, "You


    don''t have to go back Sugar Media today, do you?"


    "Mia came back so she''ll take care of it," replied Ranita who also didn''t want any more dealings with


    Shannon - it was just too frustrating for them both.


    "From now on, we should avoid anything rted to Shannon..." Dn didn''t finish his sentence


    before Olivia called.


    Ranita answered the phone and found out that Mia wasn''t answering her calls, and Sugar Media


    was already blowing up their studio phone.


    "You keep looking for Mia, I''ll go there first." Ranita had no choice but to go to Sugar Media.


    Dn was so angry that he ranted while walking Ranita to the door. "I''m telling you, if Shannon


    bullies you,e find me! I''ll teach her a lesson!"


    "Aren''t you afraid of Brendon?"


    "Why should I be afraid of him?! What can he do to me?" Dn was confident. Although his


    rtionship with Chris was average at best, he still had some face as part of the Webster family.


    "Walk slower and take a break every once in a while."


    "You''re right!" Ranita nodded without arguing. "I''ll remember."


    As soon as Ranita entered Sugar Media, she ran into two people she didn''t want to see - Shannon


    and Holly.


    "Tsk tsk! Ranita, you''re so impressive! You''ve hooked Mr. Webster so quickly? Your reputation as a


    bitch isn''t unfounded." Holly started with sarcasm. "Last time Mr. Webster protected you... I wonder


    if you were already together back then? Shameless!"

 Chapter 56 Lemon Candy

    Chapter 56 Lemon Candy


    Chapter 56 Lemon Candy


    "Holly, watch your words!" Ranita''s face was cold and her eyes were sharp as she looked at Holly.


    "False usations can lead to legal consequences!"


    "Heh, you''re just a trantor. You talk about legal consequences like you''re some big judge!" Holly


    sneered with contempt in her eyes. "You should take a look at yourself first."


    Ranita knew that dealing with Shannon alone was already difficult enough, but now with Holly


    added to the mix, it was going to be even harder for her today.


    "Heh heh, Miss Stuart, you talk about being qualified or not. Are you a big judge?" Ranita retorted


    calmly.


    Holly was immediately provoked by this and said angrily, "Ranita, who do you think is unqualified?


    Do you want to die?"


    "Threats and intimidation alsoe with responsibilities!" Pausing for a moment, Ranita''s gaze


    shifted towards Shannon. The corners of her lips curved into a teasing smile. "Miss Murphy, it''s


    gettingte. Do we really need to waste time here? Otherwise, I can trante it for Mr. Semeraro


    right away."


    "Ranita! You''re joking! You know that Holly has an impulsive personality and didn''t mean what she


    said." Shannon pulled Holly back while blinking innocently at them both, "Holly, maybe keep quiet


    for now."


    Shannon sized up Ranita from head to toe while thetter wore slightly heavier makeup than before


    - white shirt paired with jeans and t shoes - making her look intellectual without any ws.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    But Shannon had no intention of doing anything today anyway.


    After all, yesterday had been enough trouble for Ranita! So Shannon felt very good today, "Mr.


    Semeraro is waiting inside already! Let''s try our best to finish our work early today!"


    Arthur saw Ranita looking great and gave her an enthusiastic hug, "Miss Bowman, you look


    amazing today!"


    "Thank you!" With excellent bone structure, Ranita was made more handsome by heavy makeup.


    Her eyes were raised upwards, quite charismatic.


    "I modified the song yesterday. Take a listen together with Miss Murphy!" Arthur proudly showed off


    his talent.


    While tranting in between them, Ranita remained expressionless and focused on doing her job


    well.


    Shannon may not be the best person, but it cannot be denied that she had a natural talent for


    music, particrly in ying the cello.


    Arthur greatly admired Shannon, and their conversation had tired Ranita so much.


    During a break, Ranita went to the pantry to get some water when she heard Hollyining,


    "Why did you stop me earlier, Shannon? I finally have a chance to show her what''s what!"


    "Holly, calm down!" Shannon tried to soothe Holly, but then said something that made Ranita''s heart


    skip a beat.


    In a soft and yful tone of voice, Shannon said with a hint of nonchnce, "You already took care


    of Mia. You''ll have plenty of opportunities to mess with herter."


    "Not today though! Mr. Semeraro is here."


    Took care of Mia? What did that mean? Ranita pursed her lips as she thought about how Mia didn''t


    show up yesterday and wasn''t answering calls today...


    Ranita had an uneasy feeling in her gut but before she could think further about it, nausea hit hard


    and fast. She rushed into the bathroom trying not make any noise because it was still on Shannon''s


    turf.


    She held back vomit while tears streamed down from the corners of eyes due to physical


    diforts making even thinking difficult.


    Suddenly, Ranita felt a colorful candy in her pocket.


    It was given to her by Steve.


    Ranita unwrapped the candy, revealing a round and fragrant lemon-vored treat. It instantly lifted


    her spirits.


    Dr. Pearson was quite thoughtful indeed.

 Chapter 57 Finding Faults

    Chapter 57 Finding Faults


    Chapter 57 Finding Faults


    Ranita regained herposure and touched up her lipstick in the mirror, trying to look more


    presentable. She wanted to confront Mia about what had happened, but it wasn''t convenient at


    Sugar Media. She decided to wait until work was over.


    Suddenly, the bathroom door creaked open. Before Ranita could react, Holly barged in and knocked


    the lipstick out of her hand.


    "Ranita, didn''t I warn you not to mess with Shannon? Butst night you sent her to the hospital!"


    Holly sneered.


    Although Shannon had told Holly not to cause any trouble today, she couldn''t stand seeing Ranita


    around. Plus she heard from Cindy that something happened with Shannonst night and was


    furious with Ranita.


    "You''re really daring!" Holly grabbed for Ranita''s hair. "I''ll shove your head into the toilet!"


    Ranita dodged and pushed away Holly''s hand just as she stumbled backwards in her high heels


    and crashed into a wall!


    "Ouch!" Now even angrier than before, Holly red at Ranita through gritted teeth. "You dare fight


    back?! I''ll show you!"


    "Miss Stuart, you must be joking," retorted Ranita sarcastically while pulling out her phone. "If you


    take one step closer towards me, Miss Stuart, I will call the police."


    "The police? Do you have any evidence that proves I attacked you?" Besides this was Shannon''s


    territory; she would side with her no matter what!


    Holly charged towards Ranita without fear, "Once I smash your phone into pieces, then let''s see


    how can you report me!"


    Holly was being unreasonable again.


    Ranitia didn''t care about it but worried that if things got too violent it might harm her unborn child


    inside of her belly!


    "Holly! Stop it!" Once again dodging away from danger, Ranitia pleaded, "Mr. Semeraro is still here!


    Even if you want trouble with me, you should know how to behave yourself properly."


    "Hrious! Your job negligence has nothing to do with me!" Holly thought smugly, hoping that Ranita


    would encounter more trouble. Perhaps she could even sue her for breach of contract and demand


    compensation!


    The more Holly thought about it, the happier she became. Her fingers were about to touch Ranita''s


    hair...


    Just then, Ranita''s phone suddenly rang, and the name "Brendon" appeared prominently on the


    screen! Holly became infuriated, her eyes turning dark. "You''re not allowed to answer my brother''s


    call!"


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Miss Stuart, are you awyer? You can''t tell me who to talk to," Ranita retorted as she avoided


    Holly and answered the phone.


    Brendon''s deep voice came through on the other end. "You haven''t sent over the corrected catalog


    and introduction for our auction items."


    "Caleb seems to have forgotten. I am still at Sugar Media," Ranita replied nonchntly.


    Her tone was businesslike and indifferent.


    "That shouldn''t be your responsibility. Get over here within half an hour," Brendon ordered


    dominantly before adding, "Give your phone to Shannon."


    Ranita felt a headacheing on.


    "I''ll send you the materials once I''m done with workter," she said calmly, not wanting Shannon to


    take this call and hold it against her forever.


    Holly red at her angrily, teeth clenched tightly together. If it weren''t for Brendon being so


    intimidating, she would have pounced on Ranita by now!


    Suddenly though, Ranita decided that it didn''t matter if Shannon held a grudge against her; they


    had already fallen out anyway! But then again... she needed to keep calm and rational about this


    whole situation.

 Chapter 58 Brighter Than The Sunlight

    Chapter 58 Brighter Than The Sunlight


    Chapter 58 Brighter Than the Sunlight


    Mia had signed a contract with Sugar Media, and it was still under the studio''s name. If she were to


    leave now, she would be handing over leverage to Shannon.


    She didn''t want any trouble.


    "Mr. Stuart, we agreed that I would send it over by today. It''s only noon," Ranita paused and


    nced at Holly before continuing with a smirk on her lips, "I won''t dy too long at Sugar Media."


    Without waiting for Brendon to respond, Ranita hung up the phone.


    Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Holly, if youy a hand on me, I''ll fight back. But if you dy Brendon''s work, he won''t go easy on


    you!"


    Holly was so angry that her eyes turned red as she pointed her trembling finger at Ranita and said


    through gritted teeth, "How dare you use my brother against me?"


    Ranita looked calmly at Holly and tilted her head slightly as she spoke, "Do you dare not listen?"


    Holly was most afraid of Brendon.


    "You... you..." Holly couldn''t even speak properly from anger. She wanted to take action but also


    feared the consequences of dying Brendon''s work.


    "If your hands are shaking and your speech is unclear then I suggest going to the hospital!" Ranita


    couldn''t be bothered with Holly anymore.


    As Ranita stormed out of the room, she could hear stomping feet and low hysterical muttering from


    inside - probably cursing her!


    But Ranita acted like she didn''t hear anything as she quickly returned to her own post.


    "Miss Bowman! You finally came back!" Arthur greeted her warmly when he saw her. "I don''t know


    how to talk without you here!"


    Arthur brought his assistant who was also Italian but had a heavy ent in English making


    communication difficult! Arthur actually liked Ranita for a reason - when he got excited, his speech


    became very fast which made it hard for him in situations where he needed an urate trantor


    most of all times!


    Ranita said she only knew a little Italian, but that was just being modest.


    "Mr. Semeraro, if you have any questions, I will honestlymunicate with the studio," Ranita came


    back and Arthur visibly brightened up, starting to chatter away.


    Ranita had stayed up until lunchtime because of that lemon candy.


    They were supposed to continue in the afternoon, but Arthur suddenly had something he needed to


    take care of and had to reschedule their work for tomorrow. Shannon was quite happy about it, but


    Ranita was a bit sad. She thought she would be done after staying up for so long, but now there


    was still tomorrow...


    Ranita injured her ankle and couldn''t drive over here. She braved the sun and went out to hail a cab


    when a car stopped right in front of her as soon as she got outside.


    The window rolled down revealing a sharp brow bone.


    The noonday sun shone on the man''s dark eyes making them even more striking against his


    chiseled features.


    Ranita''s heart raced with excitement.


    In an instant, Ranita remembered when she first saw Brendon under this same kind of sunlight


    walking through dappled shadows cast by trees. He had just transformed from boyhood into


    manhood then; he shone brighter than that scorching sun ever could.


    Her soul was hooked immediately; her gaze followed him until his handsome white figure


    disappeared from sight without realizing it herself.


    As they say in books: everyone loves someone and is loved by someone else too.


    Ranita thought she had found the person whom she wanted to love.


    This love came unexpectedly yet left an indelible mark on her heart; Ranita knew that she will never


    forget it for the rest of her life.

 Chapter 59 Cold-Blooded And Merciless

    Chapter 59 Cold-Blooded And Merciless


    Chapter 59 Cold-blooded and Merciless


    "Get in the car!" Brendon said, his thin lips slightly parted.


    Ranita didn''t move her feet.


    She nced at him and spoke, "Thank you, Mr. Stuart. I''ll take care of myself."


    Brendon''s tone was domineering as he said, "Get in the car now. Don''t make me say it a third time."


    Ranita had been working with him for years and knew that he meant what he said. If she didn''t get


    in the car now, he might just drag her inside himself!


    This was Sugar Media''s entrance and if Shannon or Holly saw them arguing like this, it would only


    cause more trouble!


    But Ranita really didn''t want to ride with Brendon.


    He could act like nothing happened but she couldn''t! Sometimes she felt that Brendon was too cold-


    blooded and ruthless. They had argued about somethingst night but today he acted like nothing


    happened.


    "Mr. Stuart, I''m going back to the studio which may not be on your way," Ranita said firmly.


    Seeing that Ranita still refused to get into the car, Brendon stretched out his long legs and put his


    fingers on the door handle saying, "Then let me personally invite you?"


    See? Ranita knew she wasn''t wrong about him!N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Ranita was so angry that her heart pounded heavily but also worried they were wasting time since


    someone from Sugar Media mighte out any minute now. She quickly opened the door and got


    in.


    "Bang!" The door mmed shut a little too hard, showing how unhappy she was with this situation.


    Brendon looked at her calmly as if nothing had happened before saying, "The door is broken so


    your sry for this month is gone."


    "Thank you!" Ranita gritted her teeth and squeezed out the two words.


    Sitting on the far end, with arge distance between her and Brendon, Ranita didn''t speak or even


    look at him. The silence made the atmosphere tense.


    Ranita held her breath, but Brendon was as still as a mountain. He rarely showed his emotions on


    his face, so it was impossible to tell whether he felt awkward or not.


    In the end, Ranita gave in. Unable to bear the silence any longer, she broke it by asking, "Mr. Stuart,


    what can I do for you? I''ll send over the informationter..."


    Before she could finish speaking, Brendon interrupted with two simple words, "Let''s eat."


    What? He wanted to have lunch with her?


    Ranita suddenly didn''t know what to say.


    The next second she heard Brendon say, "First time seeing you wear pants at work. Not bad."


    Ranita often wore professional attire that entuated her straight legs under tight skirts that would


    make anyone take a second nce! Although Brendon had some reservations about how she


    dressed up for work like that, he never intervened since Ranita liked dressing up this way.


    "Thank you." Ranita replied dryly.


    Meanwhile she was texting back and forth with Olivia, "Have you contacted Mia yet?"


    "No! I''m freaking out here! I don''t know if something happened to her! But I can''t reach her on


    phone either!"


    "I even contacted Mr. Merrill but he said he couldn''t get in touch with her either."


    Ranita remembered Shannon and Holly''s words, and she had a bad feeling in her heart. "Olivia,


    keep in touch. Let me know the news as soon as possible!" She paused for a moment before


    adding, "Go to her office and check it out..."


    "What are you doing?" Suddenly, a man''s deep voice exploded in her ear. It was close, and the heat


    wrapped around her skin with warmth, instantly turning it red.


    Her spine also tensed up.


    "Look at your phone since you got into the car."


    "It''s nothing..." Ranita wanted to put away her phone but identally dropped it under the seat with


    a tter. Brendon picked up the phone faster than she did.


    In just a moment, his eyebrows furrowed coldly as he looked at her differently.

 Chapter 60 I DonT Plan On Loving Him Anymore

    Chapter 60 I Don''T n On Loving Him Anymore


    Chapter 60 I Don''t n On Loving Him Anymore


    That icy, prating gaze sent shivers down Ranita''s spine, making her heart feel as though it had


    plunged into the depths of an icy cave. It took her a moment to snap out of it when the phone was


    handed to her.


    "Come on, Ranita, you can''t let him get to you like this," she thought to herself, berating her own


    weakness. "I''m stronger than this."


    Her focus returned to the message on the phone screen, a message from Dn. "You live with


    Dn?" he asked.


    "I''ve made some soup for you; when are youing home?" The message was apanied by a


    carefully taken picture.


    A lump formed in Ranita''s throat, and her breath caught in her chest. She couldn''t tell if it was


    because of the pregnancy or the emotional turmoil, but she struggled to control her feelings. A sour


    taste lingered, and she felt the urge to vomit.


    For the first time, Ranita stood up to Brendon. "Is that a problem?" she responded defiantly, her


    head held high, trying to suppress the turmoil in her heart. "I''m still young, Brendon. I can''t be


    expected to spend my life as a widow after our divorce."


    "We agreed to part ways amicably," she added, still trying to justify her actions.


    But when Brendon heard these words, his heart ached inexplicably, as if he were immersed in acid,


    his mind buzzing with chaotic thoughts.


    "Dn has been wonderful to me," Ranita continued, her eyes welling up with bittersweet tears.


    "Not only is he an excellent cook, but he also has a great sense of humor that keeps meughing.


    He''s by my side, taking care of me. There''s no one else in the world like him."


    "Ranita..." Brendon''s inexplicable pain deepened.


    Ranita had a new life now, filled with shared meals, walks, and even a shared bed with Dn,


    resulting in a number of adorable children. In an instant, Brendon''s heartstrings snapped.


    He had never anticipated that someone would enter Ranita''s life so rapidly. Despite their divorce, he


    believed she would remain with thepany, continuing to be his exceptional partner.


    He had offered her a generous alimony to ensure she livedfortably. But now, his hidden and


    irrational emotions had beenid bare, turning into a powerful surge of jealousy that threatened to


    overwhelm him.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Ranita! You and Dn..." Brendon impulsively seized Ranita''s wrist, trapping her between his


    arms. "Have you been intimate with him?"


    Brendon felt like he was losing his mind. Another man had left his mark on Ranita''s body! The lips


    that had once been his were now kissed by someone else.


    This feeling consumed Brendon with an uncontroble fury.


    Despite the pain of being yanked so harshly by Brendon, Ranita maintained her unwavering gaze.


    An unexpected glimmer of hope rose within her because the source of his anger was her words.


    "Mr. Stuart," she said with unwaveringposure as she looked directly into his eyes. "What right


    do you have to ask such personal questions? Professionally, I have no obligation to share my


    personal life with my boss. Personally, our rtionship doesn''t warrant such inquiries."


    Her heart swirled within like a tempest-tossed sea. All she had ever wanted was for Brendon to


    notice her, to show some affection and care. She had waited for three long years, but her desires


    had gone unanswered.


    Now, it seemed like she had found it, but it was toote. Her love for Brendon had faded away.


    Brendon''s phone interrupted the tension with a ringing tone.


    Ranita saw the bold letters on the screen: Shannon. She smiled to herself, her heart turning cold.


    "Mr. Stuart, it''s Miss Murphy calling. Will you be answering?"


    And, as usual, his choice was always Shannon.

 Chapter 61 Studio Accident

    Chapter 61 Studio ident


    Chapter 61 Studio ident


    The ringing phone irritated Brendon, provoking his annoyance. But the abrupt rush of anger felt like


    a cold, sobering shower that washed over him, momentarily quelling his irritation.


    He finally answered the call.


    "Mm-hmm," he responded, his face impassive, while a sweet, muffled female voice spoke on the


    other end. Ranita strained to hear the words clearly, but Brendon''s inscrutable expression gave


    nothing away.


    The conversation was brief, just two minutes, yet for Ranita, it stretched out like an eternity. Every


    fiber of her being throbbed, as if she were being sliced by an invisible de, causing a silent,


    excruciating agony in her heart, lungs, spleen, and kidneys.


    "I can''t make it to lunch today. I have some things to attend to," Brendon said coldly before ending


    the call.


    Although Ranita had no intentions of having lunch with Brendon in the first ce, Shannon had


    already interrupted their ns, an uneasy feeling lingered.


    "Mr. Stuart, you can drop me off here," she told him, getting out of the car at a roadside stop.


    Just as she stepped out of the car, about to call Olivia, her phone rang. "Ranita! Come back to the


    studio!"


    "What''s going on?" Ranita inquired urgently.


    "A woman came with two people... Oh my, it''s too chaotic to exin over the phone. Juste


    back," Olivia responded. It wasn''t that she didn''t want to borate, but the situation was too


    overwhelming, and Olivia was entirely bewildered.


    Ranita hailed a taxi back to the studio, and as she approached the door, she heard a familiar and


    self-assured voice inquiring, "Where''s Ranita? Hasn''t she returned yet?"


    Holly?


    Ranita quickened her pace, pushing the door open with a chiming bell. Olivia eagerly weed her,


    as if she had encountered a savior. "Ranita, you''re back!" Olivia eximed.


    Olivia gestured toward something behind them, silently mouthing the words "really scary." Not many


    could handle Holly''s personality.


    Ranita patted Olivia''s hand, signaling her not to worry, and entered the studio with confidence.


    Ranita, along with a few others, ran their businesses from this studio, situated on the second floor of


    a small building within a creative park. With three partners, each having their own office and three


    assistants, it had a cozy, weing atmosphere, with lush green nts adding to itsfort.


    "What brings you here?"


    Holly settled into her chair with an air of arrogance, nked by two imposing bodyguards who


    Ranita recognized as Amiya''s men.


    "You''ve finally arrived!" Holly perked up at the sight of Ranita. "I''ve been waiting for you."


    "Miss Stuart, is there something you need?" Ranita clenched her teeth and shot a discreet nce at


    Olivia, silently urging her to call the police if things took a turn for the worse.


    Olivia nodded in understanding.


    Holly, with a derisive chuckle, rose from her seat and approached with an air of indignation. "You


    had a ride with my brother a little while ago, didn''t you?"


    Holly and Shannon had been observing Ranita from the window at Sugar Media. Holly had eagerly


    informed Shannon to prepare, but then they saw Ranita getting into a car that drove away.


    Holly''s fury red instantly, and Shannon''s eyes welled with tears.


    "Didn''t I tell you to stay away from my brother? Can''t you understand simple words?" Holly''s face


    contorted as she raised her hand, preparing to p Ranita.


    Ranita swiftly caught her hand. "Holly, it seems like you''re the one struggling withprehension."


    "This is my office. I demand that you and your entourage leave immediately, or I''ll call the police!"


    Holly''s wrist was held in an unyielding grip. She struggled to free herself, but her efforts were in


    vain. Frustrated, she shouted at her bodyguards, "Are you all useless? Hurry ande help!"Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 62 Betrayal

    Chapter 62 Betrayal


    Chapter 62 Betrayal


    "If I get hurt, I''ll definitely tell my mom, and she''ll have your sry deducted!" Holly''s voice echoed


    through the studio, her deration carrying a blend of indignation and defiance. As her bodyguards


    advanced, they spoke up, addressing Ranita, "Miss Bowman, please release Miss Stuart."


    The bodyguards recognized Ranita and were hesitant to escte the situation, but with Amiya as


    their boss, they were ultimately responsible for Holly''s security.


    Ranita pushed aside Holly''s hand and spoke firmly, "You saw it yourself; Holly attacked me first. I


    was merely defending myself. Holly, we live in a society governed byw, not one ruled by the


    number of allies one can muster. I kindly request you to leave with your people."


    Rubbing her wrist with an air of annoyance, Holly sneered, "Leave? Ranita, there''s something


    delightful I''d like to share with you today."


    She extended her hand to a leather bag handed to her by someone nearby.


    "Take a look at this!" She triumphantly tossed it onto the table. "I doubt you''re entitled to take me out


    today!"


    Ranita swiftly flipped through the documents in the bag, her emotions spiraling like a roller coaster


    hurtling into a deep descent.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Inside, she found not one but two stock transfer agreements. Ranita''s initial disbelief gave way to


    the painful realization that not only Mia''s shares but Carl''s were included.


    The sensation of betrayal washed over her, leaving her feeling like a dam that had burst, years of


    friendship swept away in an instant.


    Holly, watching Ranita''s reaction with satisfaction, asked condescendingly, "Did you see it clearly,


    Ranita? I am now thergest shareholder in your failing studio, and you have no authority to oust


    me!"


    Indeed, Holly''sbined ownership stake, now including Mia and Carl''s, surpassed Ranita''s. She


    had be the majority shareholder of the studio.


    Ranita''s brow furrowed as she clutched the documents, determined to maintain herposure.


    "Holly, Mia and Carl should have informed me, as a partner, before transferring their shares, as per


    the regtions. I..."


    "Ranita, keep reading!" Holly interrupted, an air of smug satisfaction lingering around her. She took


    pleasure in watching Ranita lose control, even though she attempted to hide it.


    Ranita, however, was devastated as she realized that buried deeper in the paperwork was a


    consent form she had unwittingly signed herself.


    "Unbelievable! How could you not know?" Holly exulted. "Your two dear friends would do anything


    for money!"


    "Ranita, your shock is quite the spectacle! I''d love to capture it and savor itter!"


    Holly had it all nned, with the Stuart family''s influence behind her. Ranita couldn''t help but feel


    deeply hurt that Mia and Carl had turned their backs on her in this manner. She had especially


    believed Mia would stand by her, as she hadn''t mentioned the transfer when she visited Ranita in


    the hospital.


    "Ranita, now that I own the studio, I really fancy this office! Can you clean up and make room for


    me?" Holly''s tone was insolent, and Ranita''s unease stemmed from the impending chaos Holly


    would surely bring into the studio.


    It was evident that Holly''s actions were solely intended to target her. With Holly present, the studio


    would never experience peace.


    Ranita''s heart sank. She had believed that without love, she could focus on working hard, but it


    seemed someone was determined to push her into a deep abyss.


    "Holly, what do you truly want... no, what do you and Mrs. Stuart actually desire?"


    Holly, arms crossed and chin lifted in haughty defiance, quirked a disdainful smile. "Ranita, if you


    kneel and beg for mercy, I might consider making your torment a bit less excruciating..."

 Chapter 63 Threats

    Chapter 63 Threats


    Chapter 63 Threats


    "Of course, if you don''t know how to behave, don''t me me!" Holly dered with a flick of her


    nails. "I couldn''t care less if this little studio goes bankrupt!"


    The threat hung heavily in the air, and Ranita felt the weight of the situation.


    "Miss Stuart, your words are harsh! Even though you''re a new shareholder, you should only be on


    equal footing with Ranita. Taking her office and demanding her to kneel? Who do you think you


    are?"


    "I''m addressing Ranita, and I see no reason for your interruption," Holly replied coldly, casting a


    frigid gaze at Olivia. "You''re fired!"


    "I... I''m Ranita''s assistant, not yours. You have no authority to fire me!" Olivia retorted.


    Olivia had been by Ranita''s side for a long time and was exceptionally skilled at her job. Ranita,


    naturally, came to her defense. "Holly, Olivia is my personal hire, and I pay her sry. You have no


    right to fire her!"


    Holly was taken aback momentarily but quickly regained herposure. "Fine! Are your people off-


    limits, then?"


    Ranita felt a rising sense of dread. Holly''s deliberate provocations filled her with anxiety. The


    ongoing project was already an exhausting ordeal, and with daily studio troubles, Ranita felt


    overwhelmed.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    After venting her frustrations, Holly departed triumphantly, leaving a tense atmosphere behind.


    "Oh, and by the way..." Holly paused as she reached the door, turning back toward Ranita with an


    air of arrogance. "Do you know what my brother is doing now?"


    "He''s helping Shannon choose a dress! Tomorrow night at Bouldend Mansion, there''s a wee


    party for Shannon, and my brother truly cares for her."


    Once Holly left, a heavy silence settled over the studio. Olivia poured a ss of water for Ranita


    and finally inquired, "Ranita, what should we do now?"


    Taking a moment topose herself, Ranita replied, "Rosie and Davion mentioned in our group


    chat that they''ve received termination notices." Rosie Langley and Davion ray served as


    assistants to Mia and Carl, respectively.


    "They''ve gone too far! How could they do this..." Olivia sympathized with Ranita, but there was


    nothing left to say or do at this point.


    Ranita was equally frustrated. "You go organize the documents and grab me some lunch."


    "You haven''t eaten yet, and it''s already nearly two o''clock!" Olivia expressed concern as she


    observed Ranita''s pale appearance. "I''ll fetch your lunch right away, and if you''re hungry, I have


    some snacks in my drawer."


    Once Olivia left, the office was left empty. Ranita slumped onto the sofa, utterly drained. A throbbing


    headache tormented her, and waves of nausea swept over her. She couldn''t help but spend a few


    minutes leaning over the sink, heaving from morning sickness, before eventually resting her head


    on her desk.


    "At a time like this, can''t you behave?" Ranita spoke to herself, rubbing her stomach gently. The


    baby, as inconvenient as its timing was, had decided to make its entrance.


    "Knock, knock!" The sound of someone rapping on the door was followed by Dn''sughter. "Who


    were you telling to be good?"


    "Dn? What are you doing here?"


    "Olivia messaged me saying there was trouble at work... Is everything okay?"


    There was trouble indeed, but Ranita struggled to exin it all. She slumped over her desk,


    revealing half of her face, which retained its enchanting beauty. Yet, a hint of sadness shaded her


    eyes, lending them a gentle and vulnerable quality, akin to a kitten''s.

 Chapter 64 Holly Is Sick

    Chapter 64 Holly Is Sick


    Chapter 64 Holly is Sick


    "Dn..." Ranita''s voice was soft, and she extended her hand toward him. "I want some lemon


    candy."


    Dn had known Ranita for a long time, but it was rare for her to make such requests.


    "I''ll go buy some right away," Dn hurried out and returned within ten minutes, clutching various


    packages of lemon candy.


    Ranita nonchntly unwrapped one, but the vor was different.


    "Who caused trouble earlier? Was it Shannon?"


    "No, it was Holly..." Ranita recounted the situation, and Dn''s face contorted in anger. "Is she out


    of her mind? You''ve already divorced Brendon; why is she clinging to you like this?"


    "I''m going to find Brendon!"


    Dn stormed off in fury, but Ranita quickly stopped him. "Don''t act impulsively! Finding Brendon


    won''t help."


    He had never truly been on her side before.


    "But..." Dn hesitated, a self-mecing his sigh. "It''s my fault for not having enough influence.


    Otherwise, I''d definitely take care of Brendon."


    The Webster family,parable to the Stuart family in Kurima, had a strong hold in the city. Yet,


    even with Dn''s blood ties to the Websters, he still had to tread carefully around them, unable to


    measure up to the Stuarts in terms of influence.


    If it were Chris...


    But no, Dn couldn''t ask for his help, even if he did, Chris had a close rtionship with Brendon,


    so why would he assist Ranita?


    "This isn''t your fault!" Ranita stated, lips pressed together.


    "What''s your n now?"


    "I''m a bit lost at the moment," Ranita replied, her brows furrowing as she looked down. "The worst-


    case scenario is the studio might not keep me on."


    Dn couldn''t help but feel relieved when he heard that.


    "You''re right! With Holly in the picture, the studio has changed drastically! It might be better not to


    deal with it. I''ll help you start something new!"


    "You have a strong reputation in the industry and won''t have trouble finding projects," Dn


    continued. "Remember, your professor has always wanted to rmend you for trantion work,


    and you''ve been wanting to do it since school, but got sidetracked..."


    There was no need to mention who had sidetracked her.


    "It probably won''t work out. You know my situation," Ranita reminded him, causing Dn to realize


    his mistake. "Right! I was being silly."


    "But if you stay in Kurima, Brendon will eventually find out... or what if you leave Kurima for another


    city? You haven''t been back home in Stnd for many years. How about..."


    Ranita shook her head. "Let''s decide on thatter. If I return home, it might not be there."


    "Alright, then. Let''s focus on what we can do now!" After a brief pause, Dn hesitated before


    saying, "Have you heard about Shannon''s wee party at Bouldend Mansion?"


    "I heard..." Ranita had married Brendon without a proper wedding ceremony, while Shannon


    returned and organized avish wee party at Bouldend Mansion. The contrast was stark.


    Taking a deep breath, Ranita forced a smile. "Don''t worry about me. Brendon and I are no longer


    together."


    Fortunately, Olivia returned with lunch at that moment. After she''d done eating, Caleb called, urging


    her to send over some materials.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Ranita had been preupied with various matters in recent days. Although she had made


    significant progress, she still had some loose ends to tie up. ncing at the time, she bid farewell to


    Dn, who left, and then buried herself in her work.


    After a grueling two to three hours, Ranita finallypleted her task and sent the final product to


    Caleb. She was exhausted, her brain throbbing from the effort.


    Just then, she received a picture message from Holly, captioned with a taunting message: "Have


    you seen this? My brother and Shannon are choosing engagement rings!"


    Ranita viewed the message and had to admit that Dn was right ¨C Holly truly had issues.

 Chapter 65 Blocking

    Chapter 65 Blocking


    Chapter 65 Blocking


    "I mentioned to my brother that when he and Shannon get married, to save an extra invitation for


    me so I can give it to you," Holly mentioned with a sly smile.


    "And when the timees, and you''re still in Kurima, you must have a drink at the wedding."


    Ranita didn''t pay much attention to Holly''s words and immediately blocked her.


    Out of sight, out of mind.


    Holly awaited Ranita''s response with satisfaction, but her smirk faded as she realized she had been


    blocked!


    Blocked by Ranita?! Holly double-checked multiple times, her anger nearly driving her to throw her


    phone.


    "Holly, what''s bothering you?" Shannon reached out and held her hand, her concern evident.


    "It''s all because of that witch, Ranita!" Holly grumbled angrily, ncing at Brendon on the phone in


    the distance. She turned to Shannon and inquired, "Have you picked out a gift with my brother?"


    "We have! Did you find something as well?"


    Brendon hade over to deliver a custom-made pipe as a birthday present for Chris'' grandfather.


    Since he was already there, Shannon and Holly had decided to choose some essories, not just


    rings, as Holly had initially suggested.


    Holly''s primary goal was to exact revenge on Ranita.


    "Hmph! That witch has made me so mad that I don''t even feel like shopping!" Holly vented her


    frustrations. "Can you believe she blocked me?"


    Shannon smiled and said, "I understand that you were trying to protect me. But if it upsets you, then


    I''ll be unhappy too."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    After a brief pause, Shannon grinned and whispered, "And besides, now that you''re the majority


    shareholder at TranteAble Studio, it should be easy to teach her a lesson."


    "You''re absolutely right! She won''t be able to outsmart me!" Holly''s mood brightened as she realized


    her newfound power.


    Ranita had blocked Holly in the heat of the moment, and while it felt satisfying at the time, she now


    regretted her impulsiveness. Holly could post whatever she wanted, and Ranita had to ignore it.


    She couldn''t keep avoiding Holly forever, especially since Holly was now a shareholder in their


    studio.


    Suddenly, Ranita''s phone rang, disying an iing call from Carl.


    "Hello?" Ranita answered.


    "Ranita..." Carl hesitated for a moment before speaking. But there was no point in saying anything


    now; Ranita furrowed her brow and suppressed her difort. "What''s up?"


    Carl didn''t expect Ranita to be so calm.


    Butpared to calmness, he would have preferred it if she were angry or asking him questions


    rather than making him feel so small.


    When they had initially started their business together, Ranita had provided the initial funding. But


    he was repaying her like this...


    "I''m sorry," Carl apologized.


    "No need to apologize," Ranita replied with determination. "Just don''t call me again."


    Some friendships naturally fade over time; however, she never expected it to end like this with Carl.


    She no longer wanted to understand the benefits Holly had provided them or why they had done


    what they did. It was pointless trying to understand something that had already happened.


    "If you have timeter," Ranita said in a cold tone, cutting off any further discussion on the matter,


    e by and pick up your things."


    She looked down at the picture frame on her desk that had once held a photo of all three of them,


    smiling happily together at an industry conference when they were just starting out as young


    entrepreneurs full of hope and dreams for their future sess.


    Ranita carefully took down the photo frame and ced it in a drawer before adding softly, "I wish


    both of you the best."

 Chapter 66 Scratch The Heart

    Chapter 66 Scratch The Heart


    Chapter 66 Scratch the Heart


    "Ranita... I apologize... sincerely apologize... I..." Carl waspletely caught off guard by Ranita''s


    words.


    Initially, Carl was hesitant, but Mia convinced him. Besides, he needed a significant amount of


    money to address some family matters. However, now he realized that he had gained a substantial


    sum of money but lost his most important partner!


    "No need to discuss further, that''s it!" Ranita hung up the phone and noticed the dark clouds


    outside. It seemed like rain was imminent.


    "Ranita, it might rainter! You''ve been busy all day today. Why don''t you go home early and rest?"


    Olivia paused and asked again, "Your ankle still hasn''t fully healed yet. Let me take you home."


    Ranita was indeed exhausted today.


    Just as she finished packing her things, Caleb called her, informing her that she needed to return to


    Stuart''s Corp because there was a video conference with Nemotube Company that she had to


    attend.


    Olivia listened briefly and disagreed, "Ranita, do you really have to go back to Stuart''s Corp now?


    Can''t you take a leave?"


    "It''s alright. I can manage! You pack up and go home. I''ll go there myself!" Ranita packed her things


    and left.


    Unexpectedly, at the door, she encountered someone delivering something for her - a small


    package containing a jar of lemon candy with Steve''s note attached on top.


    Ranita casually put the lemon candy in her bag while texting Steve, "Can I call you?"


    "Ranita!" Suddenly, a familiar voice came from behind.


    Caught off guard by Brendon''s sudden appearance, Ranita immediately locked eyes with him.


    Brendon?


    "Hurry up and get in the car." Brendon slightly lifted his chin; his sharp jawline seemed chiseled,


    "What are you staring at?"


    Wasn''t Brendon supposed to be picking out a ring with Shannon? Why was he here?


    "Mr. Stuart, why are you here?"


    "Just passing by!" Although it wasn''t merely passing by, the man spoke coldly, "It''s going to rain


    soon, and I was afraid you wouldn''t make it in time if you took a taxi."


    Ranita said something meaningful, "That must have been difficult for you, Mr. Stuart!"


    As soon as Ranita got into the car, Steve called her back. Perhaps bothered by the ringing sound,


    the man squinted at her while she answered the phone on her own, paying no attention to him.


    "Dr. Pearson," Ranita ignored him and spoke on the phone herself, "I received it, thank you."


    Lemon candy might not hold much value, but Steve''s intentions were truly kind.


    "Don''t be formal with me! As long as you like it!" Steve had juste out of surgery, and his voice


    was slightly hoarse, "I wanted to deliver it personally, but there happened to be surgery."


    "It''s alright!" Ranita smiled gently, her voice as soft as goose feathers tickling Brendon''s heart,


    making him feel a tingling sensation.


    Brendon squinted at Ranita, who appeared genuinely happy; he didn''t know what Steve had said.


    After ending the call, Ranita noticed the man staring at her with wolf-like eyes and asked


    nonchntly, "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    "Dn and Steve, both?" Brendon''s voice remained t, despite feeling an inexplicable bitterness in


    his heart.


    "Mr. Stuart, you must be joking! You should focus on yourself instead of meddling in other people''s


    personal rtionships," replied Ranita sternly before averting her gaze.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Forget about Dn, but Steve is my friend."


    Had he be too involved?


    When did Brendon be so carefree and start interfering in his friend''s and ex-wife''s emotional


    matters?

 Chapter 67 Have A Firm Grasp On Things

    Chapter 67 Have A Firm Grasp On Things


    Chapter 67 Have a Firm Grasp on Things


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Mr. Stuart, you certainly have a firm grasp on things," Ranita replied casually.


    Brendon''s heart felt like it might burst, leaving him speechless in response.


    The remainder of the journey was filled with silence between the two of them.


    As they approached Stuart''s Corp, Ranita suddenly remembered something. "Mr. Stuart, by staying


    at Stuart''s Corp, I''ve caused trouble for you and Miss Murphy. Shouldn''t we be searching for a


    recement from HR?"


    Finally finding his voice, Brendon responded calmly, "Absolutely! HR has already reached out to


    headhunters to find a recement before you depart."


    Brendon was bing stubborn. He couldn''t fathom how apany asrge as Stuart''s Corp


    couldn''t function without Ranita.


    "Is that so? Then I''ll wait patiently!" With that, Ranita exited the car and headed straight for the


    elevator without even ncing back at Brendon.


    Confused and angry, he followed behind her.


    In the past, she would have waited by the car door for him to apany her. Was she truly


    unwilling to grant him any more patience? His expression turned cold as he watched her step into


    the employee elevator without acknowledging him.


    "Wait! Why are you taking the employee elevator?"


    Brendon managed to wedge his foot between the closing doors.


    Ranita raised an eyebrow at him. "Mr. Stuart, this is quite dangerous."


    "Come out!"


    Ranita remained unmoved.


    Brendon''s emotions were typically steady, neither sad nor happy, but now Ranita had provoked him


    to the point where he felt like a hot air balloon ready to ascend with a single spark!


    Ranita pointed to the surveince camera above, raising her eyebrows and signaling him to let go


    quickly, or they would be caught gossiping.


    Brendon clenched his jaw and took a step, entering the elevator.


    Fortunately, although the staff elevator and exclusive elevator were separate, they were identical in


    specifications, and there was no peculiar smell. Brendon could ept it.


    Ranita remained silent, catching a glimpse of the man''s reflection on the elevator wall from the


    corner of her eye. He stood tall and lean, resembling a sturdy pine tree.


    The weather wasn''t excessively hot, and he wore a long-sleeved white shirt with the top button


    fastened, no tie, but the button reached the very top. His long and alluring neck, whether intentional


    or not, added an extra touch of allure, causing her heart to flutter.


    "Have you seen enough?"


    Suddenly, Ranita was caught.


    "I wasn''t looking at you!" Ranita instinctively denied it, but her ears hidden in her dark hair turned


    red. Her skin felt as if it had been set aze, making her head spin.


    "You wasn''t?" Brendon scoffed. "Do you want to review the surveince footage?"


    This man was so petty.


    Previously, she would asionally get distracted and nce at him, but he never seemed to notice,


    like a robot solely focused on what was in front of him. Now, he was sharp-eyed...


    "Mr. Stuart, don''t joke around! Besides me, you''re the only other living person in the elevator. It''s


    normal for me to asionally nce at you." Ranita tried to salvage her dignity, swearing that if


    Brendon continued to argue, she would genuinely pack up and leave tomorrow.


    Brendon seemed convinced and remained silent.


    However, Ranita could sense that the man had been staring at her the entire time. His gaze was


    already piercing, but being looked at so directly made her feel as though he was scrutinizing every


    inch of her from head to toe. Ranita''s heart raced, and she frowned in displeasure. "Mr. Stuart, have


    you seen enough?"


    To her surprise, Brendon retorted with her own words verbatim and even shed a smirk. "Besides


    me, you''re the only other living person in the elevator. It''s normal for me to asionally nce at


    you."

 Chapter 68 Helping To Pick Vegetables

    Chapter 68 Helping To Pick Vegetables


    Chapter 68 Helping to Pick Vegetables


    Ranita''s frustration was mounting.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Fortunately, the elevator had reached their floor, and she swiftly stepped out, eager to avoid any


    further interaction with Brendon. He trailed behind her, observing the anger swelling in her cheeks,


    inexplicably lifting his own spirits.


    The workday was drawing to a close, yet everyone in the secretary''s office remained, except for


    Caleb. Ranita worked at Stuart''s Corp and had her own modest office within the secretary''s


    department.


    As she made her way towards her office, Brendon suddenly called out, "Ranita,e to my office!"


    Although Ranita could easily get annoyed by trivial matters during an elevator ride, she understood


    the significance of their uing meeting and could distinguish between what truly mattered and


    what didn''t. Without saying much, she followed Brendon into his office.


    "Have a seat and eat," Brendon instructed, pointing to a takeout box on his desk. "We only have


    twenty minutes for dinner."


    In the past, when they were both swamped with work, they would often share meals like this. There


    were many foods he disliked, but Ranita wasn''t picky, so she would always help finish them off.


    "I''ll change my clothes first," Brendon said, adding, "Remember not to give me anything I dislike."


    Ranita was about to protest. They were already divorced, so why should she go out of her way to


    amodate him? But Brendon walked away too quickly, even closing the lounge door behind


    him!


    Ranita nced at the time. The video conference was scheduled for an hourter, and after


    finishing her meal, she still needed to review and verify the materials for the meeting. Time was


    running out.


    So, Ranita didn''t wait for Brendon and began eating her takeout alone. When Brendon emerged


    and saw the untouched box, he furrowed his brow and asked, "You didn''t pick out my food?"


    "Mr. Stuart, selecting your food isn''t part of my job description! How about... you call Miss Murphy?


    Maybe she cane over?" Ranita replied nonchntly.


    Ranita was on a roll!


    Once again, she left Brendon seething like an inted pufferfish.


    By the time Shannon arrived, the food had gone cold! Moreover, Shannon had no clue about


    Brendon''s preferences...


    "Eat without talking and sleep without speaking. Mr. Stuart, if you have anything else to say, wait


    until I finish eating!" Ranita buried her head in her meal, but her appetite wasckluster. She took


    only a few bites, then set down her chopsticks and proceeded to unwrap a lemon candy right in


    front of Brendon!


    "You used to dislike candy, didn''t you?" Brendon frowned, picking at the dishes in his lunchbox,


    wasting food.


    "I like it now!" Ranita replied casually, tossing the candy wrapper into the takeout bag.


    Brendon nced at it again and suddenly recognized the colorful candy wrappers! Brendon had a


    good memory and immediately recalled seeing something simr on Steve''s desk!


    Steve was a surgeon who often performed surgeries on seriously ill children, so he kept a jar of


    colorful candies in his office to cheer them up from time to time.


    Did Steve give these candies to Ranita?


    Was Steve treating Ranita like a child?


    How childish!


    Brendon inwardly rolled his eyes and bit down harder on his cheek while eating!


    "Mr. Stuart, I''m finished eating. I''ll go organize some documents first. When it''s time for the meeting,


    I''ll return to the conference room!" Ranita announced, rising with the support of the sofa armrests.


    However, as soon as she stood upright, dizziness struck her hard, and everything went ck before


    her eyes...


    "Ranita!" Brendon called out softly yet urgently when he witnessed what happened. Her body went


    limp, but he caught her just in time, cradling her in his arms.


    Their lips seemed to graze each other''s corners slightly; they felt warmth against their skin as his


    hands held her waist tightly...

 Chapter 69 Bite A Mouthful

    Chapter 69 Bite A Mouthful


    Chapter 69 Bite a Mouthful


    "Let go of me!" Ranita eximed, her eyes burning with anger and anxiety as she pushed against


    Brendon''s chest. Brendon, usuallyposed, felt a chill run down his spine under her intense gaze


    and quickly released his grip.


    "Ah!" With the sudden release, Ranita lost her bnce and fell backward.


    Reacting swiftly, Brendon reached out to catch her, but in his haste, they both tumbled onto the sofa


    together. The weight of his body pressed down on Ranita''s head, leaving her feeling disoriented and


    unable to think clearly.


    Brendon''s proximity was unsettling; his breath almost touching her face, his lips mere inches away


    from hers. Their breaths intertwined, creating a fluttering sensation within Ranita that she couldn''t


    exin.


    She dared not move, her heart racing like a rollercoaster - up one moment and down the next.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Brendon remained motionless, his gaze fixed on her without blinking, as if he were made of ice -


    cold yet beautiful, like snowkes falling to the ground.


    Suddenly, Ranita widened her eyes, unable to contain her frustration any longer. "Brendon, get up!


    Are you even human?!"


    Ranita was so furious that she felt like biting Brendon.


    Brendon''s face darkened, and he wasn''t feeling great either.


    His pride in self-control crumbled to dust, and he deeply regretted it. He felt as though he had lost


    all dignity in front of Ranita.


    Dizzy and weak, Ranita leaned against him without resistance. Her fingers scratched at him, as if


    trying to relieve an itch, causing Brendon''s heart to skip a beat.


    His breathing grew heavier as he gazed into her dark eyes. They had been intimate for three years,


    yet instead of restraining himself, Brendon''s aggression was increasing. This infuriated Ranita,


    prompting her to push her knee against his leg.


    "Brendon! Let go..." Her voice trailed off as his lips brushed against her cheek andnded on her


    earlobe.


    Her skin felt soft and tender under his teeth, leaving a red mark where he bit down - something


    Brendon often did yfully. It used to be cute and yful between them, but now it only annoyed


    Ranita.


    Her eyes turned red with anger as she forcefully pushed him away. She red at him fiercely but


    remained silent.


    Brendon felt like a cat scratched by its ws - hurt but unwilling to let go of the yful game they


    were engaged in. This new side of Ranita made things more interesting than before!


    As their eyes met, the ambiguous tension dissipated, leaving behind a cold stillness. The


    atmosphere outside the office mirrored this frigidity.


    Julia Parker, the secretary, cautiously nced at Shannon and lowered her voice. "Miss Murphy, I


    told you it''s not a good idea to go in..."


    Shannon''s face turned cold as she spun around and stormed off toward the elevator.


    Just before reaching the elevator doors, she abruptly turned back to Julia. "Julia, forget everything


    that just happened! If I hear any rumors spreading..."


    Julia quickly feigned ignorance. "Miss Murphy, what happened? I didn''t understand what you were


    talking about!"

 Chapter 70 Takes Advantage Of The Situation

    Chapter 70 Takes Advantage Of The Situation


    Chapter 70 Takes Advantage of the Situation


    "Great!" Shannon looked at Julia appreciatively and pulled out a box from her bag, handing it over.


    "This is a thank-you gift for letting me know about Brendon workingte tonight."


    Julia smiled politely as she epted the box. "Thank you, Miss Murphy."


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Julia was content with the gift, but as soon as Shannon turned away, she ced the box on the


    table and muttered to herself, "Who needs this trinket? She hasn''t even married into the Stuart


    family yet, and she''s already acting like Mrs. Stuart..."


    And Ranita too! She had already divorced Mr. Stuart, yet she was shamelessly vying for his


    attention!


    Well, let Ranita and Shannon fight for him!


    Inside the office, Ranita clenched her teeth. "Mr. Stuart, are you not going to get up? Do you n to


    stay there until next year?"


    Brendon got up, looking embarrassed, and cleared his throat. "Sorry, I''m just used to..."


    "You be quiet!" Ranita was so frustrated that it felt like steam was about toe out of her ears.


    "Sorry..." This time it was Brendon''s genuine fault.


    Ranita shot him a re before heading for the door when suddenly, there was a knock. "Brendon,


    can Ie in?"


    Ranita''s heart raced; why was Shannon here? She was relieved that Shannon arrived a littleter,


    as getting caught in the act would have been disastrous.


    But then it hit her. Why should she be afraid? It was Brendon who was taking advantage of her!


    Shannon strolled in, acting as if she owned the ce. She ced the soup container on the table


    and said, "Brendon, I happened to be passing by, so I brought you some soup."


    "Thank you," Brendon epted graciously. "You didn''t need to go through so much trouble. Your


    job keeps you busy too."


    "It''s no trouble at all, Brendon. I''m delighted to do it," Shannon replied with a soft, shy smile,


    sending shivers down Ranita''s spine.


    Not wanting to witness their intimate exchange any longer, Ranita looked down and said, "Mr.


    Stuart, I apologize for interrupting you two. I''ll leave now."


    "Ranita, wait!" Shannon called out. "You''ve been working hard with Brendon overtime too. Have a


    bowl of soup."


    Shannon interjected, scooping a bowl for Ranita herself and offering it with great care. "Please don''t


    hesitate, Ranita. Brendon can''t finish it alone. Enjoy a bowl as well."


    Due to the awkward incidents that had taken ce between them prior to this moment, Ranita felt


    uneasy as Shannon approached her.


    She took two steps back and replied, "Thank you for your kindness, Miss Murphy, but I''ve already


    eaten."


    Shannon''s eyes drooped with an expression of hurt. "Oh, this is soup prepared by our five-star chef.


    It''s incredibly nourishing. Please don''t be so polite, Ranita. I brought plenty, and Brendon can''t eat it


    all by himself. Do you not like me?"


    Ranita was about to decline again when Brendon chimed in, "It''s just a bowl of soup as a gesture of


    goodwill from Shannon. There''s no harm in having a little."


    While she truly had no desire to consume the soup Shannon had brought over, Brendon''s


    insistence made her reluctantly take a small sip before setting it aside. "Miss Murphy, thank you for


    your kindness, but I''m truly quite full."


    Not wanting to risk any further ufortable interactions, Ranita hastily excused herself. Outside,


    she ran into Julia.


    "Miss Bowman," Julia greeted with a warm smile. "Miss Murphy must be quite out of her element in


    there, huh? Oh, how I envy Miss Murphy for having such a remarkable boyfriend like Mr. Stuart!"


    "I wonder when they''ll tie the knot. Who knows, maybe we''ll get lucky enough to receive a gift or


    something!" Julia added, wearing a hopeful expression.

 Chapter 71 Abdominal Pain

    Chapter 71 Abdominal Pain


    Chapter 71 Abdominal Pain


    "Miss Bowman, don''t you agree?" Julia leaned in with a warm smile. "You always have Mr. Stuart''s


    favor, so the gift will surely be amazing! Just remember to treat me to dinner when that happens!"


    Ranita frowned, not wanting to delve further into the conversation with Julia. Instead, she made a


    nomittal sound and headed towards her small office. Unfortunately, Julia followed her.


    Observing Ranita looking through some materials, Julia kindly asked, "The video conference is


    about to start. Are the materials ready? Do you need any assistance?"


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Thank you!" Ranita pondered for a moment before handing Julia a sh drive. "Could you please


    print out the information inside? That''s all I need."


    Julia took the sh drive and left, while Ranita quickly skimmed through the material. She hadn''t


    turned many pages when Brendon called her on the internal line, requesting her to bring over some


    documents.


    It was an order from their boss, one she couldn''t refuse even if she wanted to.


    Fortunately, Shannon had already left, providing Ranita with some relief. She handed over the


    documents, and only then did Brendon notice that hers was still inside.


    "Mr. Stuart... I apologize... my..." Her words were cut off as a sudden pain shot through her


    stomach!


    "Hiss!" Ranita clutched her abdomen, cing one hand on the table, as cold sweat broke out on her


    forehead and back due to the fear apanying the sudden pain.


    What was happening? Could something be wrong with the baby?


    "Ranita? What''s wrong?" Brendon was also taken aback, quickly standing up and reaching out his


    hand towards the visibly pale Ranita.


    "I''ll take you to the hospital!" At this moment, Brendon no longer cared about the impending video


    conference; human life took precedence over everything else!


    But Ranita couldn''t let him handle such matters! Instead, she grabbed his arm and shook her head,


    gesturing for him to help her sit down on the sofa.


    "Go see a doctor!" Brendon''s voice turned cold, his tone unfriendly.


    "I''m fine! Let go of me, I can walk on my own!" Ranita pushed Brendon''s hand away, slowly making


    her way to the couch, suppressing the pain.


    Ranita looked dreadful. Her delicate face was pale and creased with worry, and she swayed as if


    she might copse at any moment.


    "Ranita! Why won''t you listen to me?" Brendon reached out to grab her again but ended up


    scooping her up in his arms and gently cing her on the couch.


    "What are you doing?"


    Ignoring Brendon, Ranita pulled out her phone and tried calling Dn, but he didn''t answer.


    Brendon immediately noticed this. Was this woman so averse to his help that she would rather call


    Dn? Did she truly dislike him that much?


    "What''s the point of calling Dn? He''s not a doctor!" Brendon eximed in frustration. "And do you


    see him answering your calls?"


    Ranita defended Dn despite Brendon''s sarcastic tone, "He must be busy or something!"


    Brendon felt attacked from all sides. He couldn''t even mention Dn without Ranita defending him?


    She used to defend only him!


    Since Dn wasn''t avable, Ranita called Steve instead. As soon as Steve heard about Ranita''s


    pain, he said, "Where are you? I''lle pick you up."


    "I''m at Stuart''s Corp," replied Ranita. She knew the uing video conference was important, but


    right now, nothing mattered more than taking care of their unborn child ¨C even if it meant leaving


    work early.


    Leaving work early wouldn''t bother her anyway!

 Chapter 72 Ranita, YouRe Amazing!

    Chapter 72 Ranita, You''Re Amazing!


    Chapter 72 Ranita, You''re Amazing!


    "Is Brendon here with you?" Steve asked, pausing briefly. "If he is, please pass him the phone."


    Ranita remained still, but Brendon took the phone directly from her.


    Brendon''s expression turned cold, and his voice even colder as he spoke to Steve. "What do you


    want?"


    "Ranita isn''t feeling well. Can you help her by getting her a cup of hot water and letting her rest for a


    while? I''ll be there in about twenty minutes."


    After a moment of hesitation, Steve added, "Thanks, Brendon."


    Brendon stayed silent.


    "Are you telling me to take care of Ranita? She doesn''t deserve that kind of respect!" Brendon


    snorted lightly before ending the call.


    Ranita felt a pang of pain in her stomach upon hearing his words.


    What a terrible man!


    To her surprise, Brendon actually poured her a ss of water. However, his gaze was peculiar as


    he sarcastically remarked, "Wow, Ranita! You''re truly amazing!"


    Ranita had never imagined Brendon could speak so strangely and arrogantly.


    "Mr. Stuart, it''s not necessary! I don''t have the kind of respect that would allow you to take care of


    me!" Struggling to get up from the sofa due to her difort, she continued, "I might not be able to


    attend the video conferenceter."


    "Just let me know what you need when I return."


    Brendon regretted his earlier words upon hearing what she said. Suddenly, he tightly grabbed


    Ranita''s wrist and forcefully pulled her towards him. "Ranita!"


    Still feeling pain in her stomach, she didn''t want to argue with him any longer.


    Her wrist was hurting, causing the woman to grit her teeth and say, "Mr. Stuart, you''re hurting me!


    Please let go!"


    "I''ll take you to the hospital!"


    "No need! Dr. Pearson will be here soon!" Ranita paused for a moment before a faint smile


    appeared on her pale lips. "The Nemotube video conference is something you must attend."


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Yes! Ranita could skip it, but Brendon had to be there!


    This time, Rashid didn''t participate in the meeting, and Brendon called Ranita back just to prepare


    for it. Her absence wouldn''t affect the final oue.


    Brendon was growing impatient.


    "You sit here and wait quietly! He asked me to take care of you!" It took Brendon some effort to utter


    those words after his earlier arrogance.


    "I don''t want to trouble you, Mr. Stuart..."


    "Just sit down when I tell you to sit down and stop talking nonsense!" Brendon realized he was


    being unreasonable now - he knew he should let go of what needed to be let go, but once someone


    else picked it up, he couldn''t release his grip!


    Seeing Brendon''s impatience, Ranita finally sat back down without moving or drinking the hot water


    he had handed her.


    Steve arrived sooner than expected.


    He had said twenty minutes, but he actually arrived in fifteen.


    "Ranita!" Steve didn''t even take off his white coat due to his haste. He gestured at Ranita with his


    eyes, and she secretly nodded in response.


    Steve immediately understood. "I''ll take you to the hospital first!"


    Without acknowledging Brendon''s presence, Steve bent over and hastily picked up Ranita before


    rushing out, thanking him, "Brendon, Ranita isn''t feeling well, so I''m taking her to the hospital now.


    Thank you for taking care of her earlier!"


    From the moment Steve walked through the door, he and Ranita exchanged flirtatious nces as if


    he were invisible to everyone else. When Brendon heard this, he almost felt nauseous.


    After all, Ranita was his wife!


    Brendon was so infuriated that it took him a while to remember that he had divorced Ranita...

 Chapter 73 The Soup

    Chapter 73 The Soup


    Chapter 73 The Soup


    During the car ride, Ranita reclined with a pallid face, perspiring from the agony.


    "Ranita, can you hold on?" Steve noticed Ranita''s condition through the rearview mirror, his usual


    composure now reced with tension. He pressed harder on the gas pedal.


    "Dr. Pearson, my stomach is hurting! What should I do? Is the baby alright?"


    "Don''t be silly! You and your baby will be fine!" Steve wasn''t one to make hasty promises as a


    doctor, but he couldn''t help it when it came to Ranita.


    "Really? Dr. Pearson... you''re incredible... if you say everything is okay, then it must be!" Ranita''s


    head spun, momentarily forgetting that Steve wasn''t an obstetrician - he couldn''t guarantee


    anything!


    Despite the pain, Ranita remained conscious when they arrived at the hospital. The cause of her


    abdominal difort might have been the Poria Soup she consumed, which pregnant women


    should avoid. Fortunately, she only had half a bowl.


    After receiving an injection for pain relief, Steve arranged a temporary bed for Ranita to rest while


    Dn rushed over anxiously.


    "Ranita! You scared me!" Dn hadn''t answered his phone because he was out of town, but he


    managed to rush back, running three red lights and almost losing all his points!


    Dn scolded her, "It''s not about losing points. How did you let ite to this? How many times


    have you been hospitalized recently?"


    "Not that many..." Ranita wryly smiled at Dn''s exaggerated words. "This time was truly an


    ident. I didn''t expect just half bowl of soup..."


    When they mentioned the soup againter in their conversation, Dn finally grew angry, "That


    woman Shannon must have done this on purpose!"


    "Dn, I genuinely think it was an ident! Shannon doesn''t even know I''m pregnant..."


    Dn snorted, "You fool! Shannon is your enemy, and you''re still defending her? Are you daft?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Even so, without evidence, we can''t simply me everything on her!" Ranita didn''t like Shannon


    either, but she could distinguish right from wrong.


    "Alright, alright! You''re right!" Dn didn''t want to argue with Ranita, who was a patient, and ended


    the topic early.


    "This time, luckily, you were smart enough to seek Steve''s help instead ofing to me directly. If


    anything happened to you and the baby, I wouldn''t know what to do!"


    Dn breathed a sigh of relief but soon received a call from Chris in front of Ranita. Chris''s tone


    was serious, "Dn, you drove through three red lights, disregarding traffic rules in your sports car,


    and someone caught it on camera. Thepany''s public rtions team managed to stop it, but you


    better give me an exnation immediately."


    "I..." Dn didn''t know how to exin for a moment and looked at Ranita for help, "I had an


    emergency..."


    "An emergency? Breaking thew is one thing, but if you don''t get caught, it''s fine. Now that it''s


    caught on camera, if this affects our family..."


    Dn was so furious he clenched his teeth. Although he was the second young master of the


    Webster family, he felt like a quail facing an eagle when dealing with Chris.


    "I..." Seeing Dn struggle, Ranita took his phone away and put it up against her ear, "Mr.


    Webster... this is Ranita."


    "Ranita? What happened? Are you with Dn?" Chris was surprised.


    Ranita apologetically pinched the corner of her clothes as she spoke, "Mr. Webster, please don''t


    me Dn. It''s all my fault! I wasn''t feeling well, and he broke traffic rules because he was worried


    about me."

 Chapter 74 Mr. Webster Is Easy To Talk To

    Chapter 74 Mr. Webster Is Easy To Talk To


    Chapter 74 Mr. Webster Is Easy to Talk to


    "Are you feeling better now? Where are you currently? Did you go to the hospital?" Chris


    disregarded Dn''s situation and inquired with a gentle tone.


    "I''m at the hospital. I''ve already seen a doctor, and I''m feeling much better now!" Ranita blinked her


    eyes, finding Chris'' voice pleasant, which brought her a sense of relief.


    "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Webster!"


    Chris remained silent for a few seconds before speaking again, "Since there is a reason behind this


    incident, let''s just forget about it."


    After uttering two more sentences, Chris ended the call.


    "My brother hung up?" Dn widened his eyes, realizing that the matter had passed without much


    fuss. He felt somewhat dazed.


    "Mr. Webster is not unreasonable!" Ranita handed the phone back to Dn. "He said he will help


    you take care of it. Don''t worry! Besides, this whole thing happened because of me. Next time I see


    Mr. Webster, I''ll properly thank him!"


    Dn looked at his phone, then back at Ranita, resting his chin on his hand as he asked, "Ranita,


    are you close with my brother?"


    "He''s close with Brendon." Ranita had worked on several projects with Brendon before, and they


    had spent almost every moment together due to their previous rtionship.


    Ranita was also familiar enough with Chris.


    "And Mr. Webster is easy-going!" Ranita smiled brightly, her lips even more vibrant than before,


    showcasing her beautiful facial features!


    When she smiled, her colors became even richer, brighter than springtime sunlight, while her pupils


    sparkled like diamonds!


    Dn pursed his lips as he watched her smile. Suddenly, he felt jealous of Chris! She spoke so


    tenderly when mentioning him earlier and described him as easy-going!


    As if... Chris could ever be considered easy-going!


    Brendon from the Stuart family and Chris from the Webster family were both known for being


    difficult to approach in Kurima. Dn didn''t know much about Brendon, but as Chris''s younger


    brother, he had grown up in his shadow.


    "Ranita, you''ve changed!" Dn grinned and snickered. "We''ve been friends for so many years, and


    I''ve never heard you praise me!"


    "How do you know I don''t praise you? I often praise you in front of Eve!"


    "That doesn''t count! Eve..." Dn was interrupted by Ranita''s ringing phone. He quickly stood up.


    "Damn it! Why is Carl calling you? We haven''t even settled things with him and Mia yet! How dare


    he call you?"


    "Don''t answer it! Let me handle it!"


    "Dn!" Ranita stopped him. "Let me take care of this."


    Ranita answered the phone. Carl''s voice was low, and his emotions were clearly not good.


    "Ranita, thank you for answering my call."


    "What do you want?" Ranita responded coldly.


    "It''s like this... Mia wants to apologize to you, but she feels too guilty to call herself! So... I thought..."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita sneered, "If she wants to apologize to me, let her call me herself. Why are you calling me?"


    Among the three people present, Mia had a closer rtionship with Carl than anyone else; he could


    be considered her little henchman. Mia was capable enough but sometimes yed dumb. When


    there were issues that she could have addressed herself, she always directed Carl instead.


    But these were all small matters that Ranita didn''t care about anymore.


    This time, Ranita wasn''t going to back down.


    "Carl... tell Mia toe find me personally," Ranita interrupted him directly before hanging up the


    phone without another word.

 Chapter 75 Dealing With Villains Without Hesitation

    Chapter 75 Dealing With Viins Without Hesitation


    Chapter 75 Dealing with Viins without Hesitation


    Carl ended the call, his face filled with concern as he turned to Mia. "Mia... Ranita wants you to call


    her directly!"


    "Mia, I understand you''re sensitive, but we really messed up this time! You should reach out to her


    yourself. We''ll apologize and exin the situation. Even if our friendship doesn''t continue, it''s better


    than carrying this guilt forever!" Carl pleaded, hoping Mia would agree.


    Mia nervously bit her lip before finally conceding, "Okay, I''ll call Ranita myself."


    After Carl left, Mia wasted no time in updating Holly about the situation.


    Holly couldn''t control her emotions upon hearing that Mia hadn''t made ns with Ranita yet. "Mia!


    You''re such a disappointment! I invested so much money in you, and this is how you repay me?"


    Mia, despite her intelligence and pride, hailed from a humble vige. Being called a disappointment


    by Holly deeply wounded her self-esteem.


    But that money was something she could never earn through a lifetime of hard work!


    "Don''t worry, Miss Stuart! I will definitely make ns with Ranita. Just give me a little more time."


    "Hmph! You have three more days. If you mess up again, I''ll deal with you myself!" Holly angrily


    hung up, leaving Mia to light a cigarette. At this moment, she questioned whether her actions were


    right or wrong, but what other choice did she have?


    She was different from Ranita.


    Ranita never spoke about her family, but her demeanor hinted at a privileged background, perhaps


    growing up in a middle-ss environment. Unlike Mia, she was the only one from their vige who


    had attended college. Over the years, she had worked tirelessly, sending money back to support


    her fellow vigers.


    On the surface, she appeared morous, admired by everyone for establishing her own studio at


    such a young age. But little did they know that her house, car, and luxury items for business


    meetings were all rented...


    Nothing truly belonged to her.


    Meanwhile, her parents continued to me her for living afortable life without helping her


    struggling rtives who had contributed to her education and hometown.


    And now, even worse news arrived: her father had suffered a brain hemorrhage, requiring a


    significant amount of money, coincidentally when Holly approached...


    In the hospital room, Dn praised Ranita for her response to Mia and Carl''s betrayal. "You handled


    them perfectly, with the right tone and attitude," hemended, giving her a thumbs up. "You can''t


    be too nice when dealing with people like them."


    Although Dn also knew Mia and Carl, he was surprised by their betrayal of Ranita.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "I''m not naive! I know what I''m doing," Ranita confidently replied before instructing Dn to grab a


    lemon candy from her bag.


    As he peeled the candy for her, Dn asked where she got it. "Dr. Pearson gave it to me!" she


    replied, chewing on the candy.


    Dn raised an eyebrow suspiciously - Steve gave it to her? He couldn''t believe how gentle and


    considerate Steve or Chris could be around Ranita, especially since they were usually difficult to


    deal with.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Ranita teased, catching him staring. "Is it because I''m too


    good-looking?"


    Dnughed and yfully poked her forehead with his finger. "What kind of dream are you


    having?"

 Chapter 76 I Miss You

    Chapter 76 I Miss You


    Chapter 76 I Miss You


    "Hiss!" Ranita deliberately let out a couple of shrieks, immediately causing Dn to be


    anxious. He leaned in to help cool Ranita down, saying, "I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to!"


    Instinctively, Ranita took a step back.


    "Okay, okay!" Ranita sighed. She shouldn''t have teased Dn! She enjoyed their friendship, but


    when things went sour, the consequences were often unsatisfactory.


    Ranita realized she should trouble Dn less in the future.


    "Oh, by the way, have you eaten? Are you hungry... I can buy something for you!"


    "No need! Dr. Pearson already got me something. I''m just a little tired," Ranita paused and urged


    Dn, "We''re almost there. You can go home first."


    "No way! I''ll take you hometer," Dn stubbornly insisted, leaving Ranita with no choice but to


    ept a ride from him. Once she arrived home, instead of resting like usual, she pulled out her


    work list and organized it.


    Her main project involved following up on orders from Stuart''s Corp., while the remaining tasks were


    personal favors rather than studio work.


    After organizing everything, Ranita took a deep breath.


    The situation seemed slightly more optimistic than expected; the worst-case scenario would be


    quitting her studio, leaving Holly in charge of everything she had worked so hard for - not worth it!


    Now that Ranita was pregnant and uncertain about the legal aspects of her business affairs, she


    decided to consult a reliablewyer - Chris immediately came to mind.


    Ranita called Chris right away, saying, "Mr. Webster... it''s me, Ranita. I apologize for bothering you


    sote."


    "Why are you being so formal with me? Are you feeling better? Have you gone home?"


    "I''m much better now, just had a stomach ache from eating something bad. Nothing serious!" Ranita


    made an excuse before continuing, "Mr. Webster, I have something going on and was wondering if


    you could rmend a trustworthywyer for me."


    "Awyer?" Chris didn''t ask any further questions and promptly replied, "Marlon is excellent to work


    with. If you need his contact information, I can send it to you."


    If Chris rmended him, then Marlon must be good. Ranita expressed her gratitude, saying,


    "Thank you, Mr. Webster. Next time, I''ll assist you with your project for free."


    "It''s actually quite coincidental," Chris paused before adding, "Are you avable this weekend? A


    client needs an interpreter, and it would be great if you could help out!"


    "No problem!" Ranita agreed without hesitation. The weekend was her personal time, so she didn''t


    mind taking on some frence work.


    "Then I''ll have my driver pick you up when the timees!" After another pause, Chris added, "See


    you this weekend."


    After ending the call, Ranita received Marlon''s contact information from Chris and sessfully


    reached out to him.


    It wasn''t until she heard Marlon''s full name that she realized he was a well-knownwyer in the


    industry.


    Ranita exined her situation to Marlon, who suggested suing Mia and Carl, but Ranita refused,


    knowing about Mia''s family situation - how would she survive in this social circle if legal troubles


    arose?


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Ranita hesitated but decided to think about itter as shey in bed, tossing and turning. Just as


    she was about to turn off her phone, Brendon unexpectedly called.


    Brendon''s name flickered on the screen. Ranita held her breath before answering, his hoarse voice


    rang out, "Ranita... I miss you..."


    Like morning dew enveloping pebbles, rushing into her heart, but when those cool droplets burst,


    they only left behind pain.

 Chapter 77 I Want To Sleep With You

    Chapter 77 I Want To Sleep With You


    Chapter 77 I Want to Sleep With You


    "Ranita... I have a splitting headache... why aren''t youing to pick me up?" The man''s voice


    came through in fragments, his words slurred from excessive drinking.


    "You''ve had too much to drink..." Ranita knew that the sober Brendon would never utter such


    nonsense. "If there''s anything, find Caleb!"


    Ranita ended the call, but sleep eluded herpletely.


    Restlessly, she tossed and turned in bed, finally sumbing to drowsiness when her phone buzzed


    once again.


    It was Caleb calling, and his first question was urgent, "Miss Bowman, have you seen Mr. Stuart?"


    "What happened? Is Brendon okay?" Ranita sat up abruptly, worry flooding her heart.


    Caleb must be truly desperate to call her at this hour.


    "After tonight''s video conference, Mr. Stuart attended a private party. I went out for a drive, and


    when I returned, he was gone. I can''t reach him on his phone either. I''ve searched several ces


    but haven''t found him yet."


    Caleb''s anxiety was palpable, which exined why he reached out to Ranita.


    "... He called me a while ago but abruptly hung up after a few words."


    "Miss Bowman, do you know where he is?" Caleb''s question left Ranita feeling frustrated. She didn''t


    want to engage with someone who was intoxicated, so she simply hung up.


    Now, reflecting on her actions, regret washed over her. If something happened to Brendon, she


    would carry the burden of guilt for the rest of her life.


    "I... am not sure either. At that time, I assumed you were with him."


    Caleb sounded disappointed, "I apologize for bothering you, Miss Bowman. We will continue


    searching here!"


    "If you hear anything, please inform me immediately!" Ranita persisted in calling Brendon, but he


    didn''t answer. Just when she thought she couldn''t get through, he unexpectedly picked up.


    "Brendon! Where are you?"


    All she could hear on the other end was heavy breathing.


    "Brendon..."


    "Uh... I''m here..." The man''s voice was hoarse and low,yered with tenderness and dependence


    that stirred Ranita''s already unsettled heart.


    "Where are you? Is someone with you? Let someone else answer the phone." Ranita repeated


    herself, and Brendon responded with a grunt before saying two words, "No one."


    "Then where are you?"


    "I don''t know..." As soon as he said this, Ranita felt suffocated. How intoxicated was he to not even


    know his whereabouts?


    "Look around for any buildings or street signs," she suggested, but then realized something was


    amiss - it was too quiet on Brendon''s end to be near a road.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Could it be that he drank too much and got picked up by someone? But no, he imed there was


    no one around him...


    Where on earth was this guy?! No matter how much she pondered, Ranita couldn''t fathom


    Brendon''s location, growing increasingly agitated.


    "I can''t see any buildings¡­" The man''s voice softened with each sip of alcohol. His nasal tone took


    on a whining quality, "There aren''t any street signs either... Ranita... why don''t youe pick me


    up?"


    "My head is spinning."


    "I want to sleep with you."


    Ranita was left speechless.


    Let''s skip thest sentence.


    Brendon led a busy life, often attending unavoidable social gatherings where he asionally


    indulged in excessive drinking, leading to moments of intimacy at most. Under the influence of


    alcohol, he might be a bit uninhibited, but he had always been a silent and reserved man, not


    prone to rambling as he was now.

 Chapter 78 Call Her Name

    Chapter 78 Call Her Name


    Chapter 78 Call Her Name


    "Take a closer look!" Ranita gritted her teeth and lowered her voice, coaxing him. "Or maybe you


    can send me your location."


    "What''s a location?" Brendon asked.


    Ranita bit her cheek in frustration. "Do you even know what you''re holding in your hand?"


    "What am I holding?" Brendon asked innocently.


    Great, Ranita thought. Let Brendon deal with his own mess. She was his ex-wife, so why should


    she care so much?


    Ranita guessed that he probably wasn''t in any danger. In that case, let him get drunk. Just as she


    was about to hang up the phone, Brendon spoke again, "Ranita, you''re such a bad woman. Why


    won''t you let me take you to the hospital?"


    "Do you dislike me? How many women would love for me to have this opportunity? You really are a


    bad woman!"


    Ranita was at a loss for words. He was clearly drunk. She hoped that when Brendon woke up, he''d


    remember what he said.


    "Do you like Dn or Steve? You should like Dn since you both slept together! You''re so bad for


    stringing along my friend while sleeping with Dn..."


    Ranita couldn''t stand it any longer. "Brendon, shut up already! I never slept with Dn!"


    After yelling at him, Ranita felt relieved, but Brendon sounded extremely aggrieved on the other end


    of the phone. "See? Now you''re getting mad at me too! You weren''t like this before!"


    Back when they were married and she had feelings for him hidden away in her heart, she cared


    about everything concerning Brendon. But now, they were divorced, and there was no rtionship


    between them anymore. Why was she so foolish?


    "Brendon..."


    "Ranita, there are so many stars outside," Brendon started rambling again. But there were hardly


    any stars visible in the Kurima night sky. Ranita realized he must have been looking at streetlights.


    She asked with concern, "Are you still in the office?"


    Ranita couldn''t figure out how a drunkard had managed to get from the club to the office.


    "It seems like it..."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita hung up on him without hesitation and immediately called Caleb to find Brendon at Stuart''s


    Corp.


    Half an hourter, Caleb sent her a message saying he''d found Brendon lying on the sofa in his


    office.


    Ranita breathed a sigh of relief upon reading the message but couldn''t sleep well that night because


    of all themotion.


    Bouldend Mansion.


    Caleb brought Brendon home and met Shannon at the door. She rushed over to help Brendon up


    and asked, "What happened to Brendon? Why did he drink so much?"


    "The people at today''s gathering were quite intense," Caleb replied, leaving out the details of what


    had urred earlier. After helping them into their room, he took his leave.


    Brendony quietly on his bed with his clothes slightly disheveled. However, with his tall stature and


    handsome face, Shannon''s heart raced as she looked at him.


    "Brendon, let me wipe your face for you." Shannon twisted a towel and moved toward him but was


    stopped when Brendon grabbed her wrist and pulled her closer to him.


    Shannon stumbled into Brendon''s arms, causing her heart to race even faster.


    "Brendon!" Shannon blushed as she saw Brendon taking the initiative. "You''re awake..."


    Brendon squinted at her. In his blurry vision, he realized that the person in front of him wasn''t


    Ranita. He furrowed his brow and asked, "Where''s Ranita? You''re not Ranita?"


    Shannon snapped back at him.

 Chapter 79 Resentment

    Chapter 79 Resentment


    Chapter 79 Resentment


    "Brendon... you''re drunk! I''m Shannon!" Shannon''s eyes welled up with grievance, and she


    proactively wrapped her arms around Brendon''s neck, getting close to him.


    But Brendon avoided her and forcefully pushed her away!


    Shannon tumbled to the ground, her knees and arms turning red from the fall. What made Shannon


    even angrier was that Brendon was still muttering Ranita''s name.


    "That damn woman!" Shannon muttered to herself and pounded the ground fiercely.


    Shannon''s worst fear hade true! Had three years really given Ranita a chance to take


    advantage? If Brendon had fallen for Ranita, what would she do?


    Shannon clenched her fist, her resentment towards Ranita reaching its peak in her heart.


    The morning light was faintly shining.


    When Ranita was awakened by the rm clock, she feltpletely dazed.


    For breakfast, she cooked eggs and made herself a cup of milk. Finally, she took a folic acid


    vitamin.


    Probably because she hadn''t slept well, Ranita kept yawning in the car, with a few tears at the


    corners of her eyes. Her pitch-ck pupils became hazy and blurred.


    On the way, Ranita unexpectedly received a phone call from Rashid.


    "Mr. Bassett!" Ranita was surprised. Although she had received his personal business card before,


    she had not contacted him privately because of Brendon.


    However, it shouldn''t be difficult for Rashid to inquire about her contact information.


    "I didn''t see you in yesterday''s video conference. I heard that you weren''t feeling well. Are you


    feeling better now?"


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Ranita chuckled softly and said, "Did you attend as well? Didn''t you say that you wouldn''t be able to


    make it?"


    "I just wanted to see the beautiful woman! I didn''t expect you weren''t here!" Rashid paused and


    continued, "I heard that your cooperation with Stuart''s Corp is ending? Do you want toe over to


    my side?"


    Ranita was slightly surprised. She didn''t expect Rashid would try to recruit her for Nemotube.


    "Mr. Bassett, you''re joking! Nemotube already has a dedicated team. They don''t need me," Ranita


    replied.


    There are rules in the trantion industry.


    "No, no, no. You misunderstood me. I want to invite you to Dubai!" Rashid paused again and said, "I


    don''t mean to pry into your personal affairs with Mr. Stuart, but it seems like you two have divorced.


    Miss Bowman, you''re now single and should have no problem working anywhere."


    Rashid originally wanted to suggest that she be his third wife, but he had been rejected before


    and he didn''t want it happening again.


    Ranita was speechless.


    Rashid hadn''t given up yet!


    "Mr. Bassett, thank you for your kindness, but I currently have no ns of working abroad," Ranita


    quickly added before continuing on a different topic, "When will youe back to Kurima? I will


    definitely take this opportunity as the hostess and show you around while enjoying our local


    cuisine."


    Rashid sighed regretfully, "Okay! Miss Bowman, I really appreciate you!"


    "But if that''s what makes you happy, then there''s nothing more we can do about it." He continued


    after a pause, "If there are any projects in the future, though, we''ll definitely prioritize reaching out to


    you!"


    Clients are resources!


    Without rejecting him outright, Ranita chatted with him for a bit longer before hanging up the phone


    as her car arrived at Sugar Media.


    "Ranita, yourplexion doesn''t look too good today." Shannon wore a white dress with carefully


    styled hair, which made her look exquisite and pretty. Paired with her sweet voice, she looked pure


    yet tempting at once.


    "Is it because of yesterday''s overtime work? You worked so hardst night, Ranita. I''ll let Cindy


    pack some soup for lunchter so you can drink some nutritious soup!"


    Whenever Ranita thought of soup, she shuddered with fear.

 Chapter 80 Bastard

    Chapter 80 Bastard


    Chapter 80 Bastard


    She wasn''t sure if Shannon did it on purpose or not, but it was just too coincidental!


    But how did Shannon know she was pregnant? If she knew, shouldn''t she have caused a scene


    already? Why was she so calm?


    "Miss Murphy, you''re too polite! I''ll just focus on my work for now!" Ranita''s response was a refusal,


    but Shannon seemed to ignore it and flirtatiously twirled her hair while saying, "Ranita, why are you


    being so polite with me?"


    Just then, Cindy handed Shannon some ointment. Shannon blinked at Ranita and put on an


    affected tone as she said, "Brendon got drunkst night and caused quite amotion. My knee is


    bruised!"


    Her voice was dripping with coquettishness, and her eyes sparkled with a hint of flirtation. She


    practically wanted to shout from the rooftops that she had an intimate rtionship with Brendon.


    "Miss Murphy, I know you and Mr. Stuart have a good rtionship, but please don''t disy it so


    early in the morning! We have a concert to perform soon, so it''s better to focus on that," Cindy


    reminded Shannon while chatting away on the side.


    Ranita was the master of keeping her emotions hidden, and she chose to remain silent.


    "Oh dear, there''s someone else here!" Shannon grabbed Cindy''s shoulder and smiled at Ranita


    again. "Don''t mind her," referring to Cindy, who sometimes spoke bluntly without any malice


    intended. "And Brendon is very gentle towards me. It''s just that my skin is delicate..."


    Cindy worked for Shannon, so naturally, she sided with her boss when it came down to choosing


    sides. She followed up by adding, "Miss Bowman, don''t mind, though, because Mr. Stuart has good


    feelings towards our boss here. This limited edition bracelet on our boss''s wrist was a gift from him!"


    The two of them teamed up like a master-servant duo, using theirbo moves to show off


    Brendon''s favoritism towards Shannon.


    Wasn''t all this just an attempt to show off how much Brendon favored her?


    Ranita sighed inwardly but didn''t want to engage in any further conversation. She had already


    divorced her ex-husband, and there was really no need for such drama anymore.


    "I don''t mind. You guys go ahead and chat. I''ll go to the restroom for a moment," said Ranita. She


    felt a tickle in her throat and figured she might feel nauseouster, so she decided to take a break


    and have a piece of candy.


    As soon as Ranita left, Cindy immediately sneered, "Shannon, she is quiteposed."


    "She''s not easy to deal with." Shannon gritted her teeth. She thought Ranita might not show up


    today! Yesterday, she wasted a bowl of soup on her!


    Shannon was really angry yesterday. She only turned back because the chef told her that pregnant


    women shouldn''t drink it. If one bowl of soup could make Ranita lose her baby, she would have set


    off fireworks!


    "I heard that Ranitaes from an average background. Her parents are from out of town, and


    she''s alone in Kurima trying to make a living. It should be easy for us to deal with someone like


    that!" Cindy knew too well how to destroy someone in the entertainment industry.


    "Okay, Mr. Semeraro is here now, and the concert is more important!" Shannon had seen many dirty


    tricks, but if they were going to be done, she couldn''t do them herself. Her concert was about to


    start, and it wasn''t worth risking anything.


    Ranita spent a long time washing her hands in the bathroom.


    Of course, she wasn''t calm inside - Brendon was such an asshole! He said he missed her and then


    slept with Shannon right after turning around.


    What a jerk!


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Ranita cursed Brendon thousands of times in her mind!


    Ranita wasn''t feeling well mentally anyway - having to guard against Shannon all morning while


    working made her head ache when leaving Sugar Media.


    Fortunately, after this job at Sugar Media ended, she wouldn''t need toe back again which was


    good news for once. When Ranita returned home without eating lunch yet, she fell asleep right


    away.


    When she woke upter on, there were waves of delicious food smellsing from outside. When


    Ranita went out for a look, she was surprised to see her friend, Eve.

 Chapter 81 Good Friends

    Chapter 81 Good Friends


    Chapter 81 Good Friends


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "When did you get back?" Ranita rushed over, but Eve Riley quickly halted her with a loud voice,


    "Slow down! No running!"


    Ranita embraced Eve tightly.


    "Why didn''t you inform me about your return?" Ranita''s voice was muffled, her nose and eyes were


    red, and her grievances poured out uncontrobly.


    It had been a challenging time for Ranitately, but her friend wasn''t there to confide in.


    Now that Eve had finally returned, all the pent-up emotions found an outlet and couldn''t be


    contained any longer.


    "I wasn''t sure if I coulde back, so I didn''t give you advance notice!" After a pause, Eve guiltily


    apologized, "I''m sorry I wasn''t there for you immediately."


    "Why are you apologizing?" Ranita knew that despite Eve''s morous appearance in public, filming


    was actually grueling work. This time she was part of a strict production crew in a small mountain


    vige with limited inte ess.


    "You said you had to finish filming before returning. Why did you suddenlye back? Won''t it


    affect your work?" Ranita knew it would be another two months before Eve finished filming.


    "Of course I had toe back! Something this significant happened, and yet I didn''t receive a


    single phone call from you!" Eve gritted her teeth while discussing the matter. "If Dn hadn''t


    informed me, I would still be clueless!"


    Eve red fiercely at Ranita, touching the corner of her eye with her finger. "And yet you have the


    audacity to show up with red eyes!"


    "Are you the only one hurt?"


    Ranita, Dn, and Eve were good friends, but Eve often acted like an authoritative figure.


    "I''m sorry! I just didn''t want anything to distract or upset your performance." Ranita tried to exin


    herself, but Eveunched a barrage of attacks. "Ha ha! You''re just making excuses! Are you telling


    me you''re afraid I''ll cause trouble for Brendon? Why are you so foolish? It''s already now, and you''re


    still thinking about him?! And what about the baby in your belly?! Are both you and Dn crazy?!


    Are you saving it for the new year or something?! Do you think having a baby is easy? Never mind if


    the Stuart family or Brendon find outter - how will they react? Even if you hide it and give birth,


    you''ll have to juggle work and raising your child. How will the child inquire about their father in the


    future? What will your response be?"


    In reality, many celebrities in the entertainment industry secretly give birth. Eve had heard numerous


    stories like this. Single motherhood isn''t easy!


    "I..."


    "Don''t talk about yourself like that. While I can afford to raise a child, there are risks involved in


    giving birth. What if something happens to you? What am I supposed to do with Dn? You


    divorced Brendon, so why should you risk your life to have his child?"


    "Now rest well, and tomorrow we''ll go and..." Eve interrupted Ranita with a dismissive gesture.


    Seeing how agitated Eve was, Ranita tried to calm her down. "Eve, don''t get worked up! I''ve


    considered all the issues you mentioned, and I... I''ve decided to keep this baby, not for Brendon''s


    sake."


    "The baby is innocent." Pausing for a moment, Ranita embraced Eve. "Think about it - having an


    adorable little one holding your hand and calling you ''auntie.'' Wouldn''t that make you happy?


    Besides, with all the money you make, can''t you help me out with form and diapers?"


    Eve''s earlier words were merely out of concern for Ranita. She understood how challenging it would


    be for her friend - working while pregnant and raising a child alone.


    But as Ranita said, the thought of holding a soft little bundle was undeniably appealing.


    Eve snorted and crossed her arms. "Not happy! Unless... he or she calls me ''godmother''!"

 Chapter 82 Come Knocking At The Door

    Chapter 82 Come Knocking At The Door


    Chapter 82 Come Knocking at the Door


    "Haha!" Ranita burst intoughter, unable to contain herself any longer, finally managing to calm


    down this stubborn individual.


    "Just tell me if it''s okay or not!" Eve pleaded with Ranita using her eyes, as if she would strangle her


    if she didn''t agree.


    "It''s okay! If you''re willing, the baby can call you mom!"


    "No way! Other people''s children are adorable, but their own are little devils!" After saying that, Eve


    excitedly put her arm around Ranita''s shoulder and asked, "Where is your prenatal report? Let me


    see what the little one looks like!"


    Ranita chuckled. "Why do you sound like Dn?"


    "Why are youparing me to that idiot?" After a brief pause, Eve continued. "I noticed you''ve


    been sleeping all day, so I made noodles for us to enjoy together!"


    Eve couldn''t cook much else, but she was a master at making noodles!


    Ranita was in a good mood and had a better appetite than before. It could also be because she


    hadn''t eaten lunch yet, so she savored the noodles slowly while Eve examined the prenatal report


    repeatedly.


    Eventually, they set aside their bowls of noodles and focused on the ck-and-white ultrasound


    image, which didn''t clearly reveal much. "Oh my goodness," eximed Eve with a big smile on her


    face. "Our little one is so cute."


    Ranita was left speechless.


    What happened to Eve''s IQ? Why did she be like Dn? How could they determine if it was


    cute?


    But this time, Ranita didn''t argue back. If they thought it was cute, then it was fine! They were right!


    "How long will you stay here?"


    "I took two days off work just toe see you, and I''ll go back tomorrow," sighed Eve before


    suddenly asking, "Why did he suddenly ask for a divorce?"


    Ranita nibbled on her noodles and spoke softly, "Have you read any celebrity gossip?"


    "What gossip? I can''t ess the inte. I took two days off and worked several all-nighters. I went


    straight to the airport without even removing my makeup. I slept in the car," Eve exined, pausing


    for a moment before continuing, "Could it be that his ex-girlfriend is back?"


    Oh no!


    Eve didn''t need Ranita to say anything more. She pulled out her phone and searched for herself,


    widening her eyes in shock. "I knew it! He''s such a scumbag!"


    "How much alimony did he give you?"


    Ranita mentioned a figure and also mentioned some real estate holdings, which surprised Eve,


    causing her to open her mouth wide in amazement. "No wonder he''s from the Stuart family. Just


    those tworge apartments are enough to livefortably for a lifetime!"


    "You should keep this child so they can inherit Brendon''s propertyter."


    Ranitaughed even harder at this suggestion.


    "Forget about that! We have money now; we''ll definitely have enough to raise a child!" After a brief


    pause, Eve added, "You''ve lost weight recently. Don''t work too hard at your studio."


    Especially since Ranita was still working on projects with Stuart''s Corp under Brendon''s watchful


    eye every day - it was ufortable!


    Speaking of the studio, things were currently chaotic there, but since Eve had only just returned


    after being away for so long, Ranita didn''t want to worry her friend by sharing the details.


    With Eve around, though, Ranita felt much more at ease.


    After taking a hot shower, Ranita emerged from the bathroom only to find Dn had also arrived


    with lots of delicious food, and they were nning to watch movies together at home.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    They used to do this often before she married Brendon, but due to her busy work schedule, such


    opportunities gradually decreased over time!


    Just then, Brendon called. "Are you home?" he asked.


    "Yes, I am," Ranita replied.


    "Open the door!" The man''s words caught Ranita off guard. She walked to the door and opened it,


    only to find Brendon standing there in person.


    "What are you doing here..." she began to say before feeling an arm wrap around her from behind


    and hearing Dn''s lowughter. "Ranita, who''s at the door?"


    In an instant, their eyes met - all six of them.

 Chapter 83 Conditions

    Chapter 83 Conditions


    Chapter 83 Conditions


    Ranita appeared to have just finished showering, as her hair still glistened with droplets of water.


    She wore casual attire, a round-necked shirt that showcased her fair arms and graceful neck.


    "Why is he here?" Brendon frowned.


    "Hehe! Why can''t I be here?" Dn noticed Brendon and immediately adopted a hostile demeanor,


    skipping the pleasantries.


    "What do you want with Ranita? If it''s not important, please don''t disturb us while we''re watching the


    movie!" Dn nced at Brendon''s attire - a meticulously ironed, handcrafted suit paired with an


    expensive patterned tie and cor clip. He resembled a peacock ready to disy its feathers.


    "Oh... I remember now. Aren''t you hosting a wee party for Shannon at home today? It''s already


    late - why haven''t you gone back yet? Be careful not to make Shannon anxious!"


    Upon hearing this, Ranita also recalled.


    "Mr. Stuart, is there something you need?"


    "This time, Mrs. Cather and Mr. Semeraro will also attend the wee party. Go over and follow


    them." Brendon''s words infuriated Dn.


    "Brendon, don''t go too far! Ranita only signed a contract with you. She didn''t sell herself to you!


    What does this private wee party have to do with her?!" Dn grabbed Ranita''s hand and


    pleaded, "Don''t go!"


    With Shannon''s recent conniving behavior, who knew how she would mistreat Ranita!


    Moreover, Ranita hadn''t been feeling well these past few days - should she really go to work?


    "Ranita!" Brendon looked at the woman with Dn disapprovingly, "The car is waiting downstairs.


    Don''t waste any more time."


    "Ranita... don''t go..."


    But Ranita calmly pressed down on Dn''s hand and said, "Let me change first. Please wait for


    me, Mr. Stuart."


    She didn''t even invite Brendon inside before closing the door behind her.


    Through the crack in the door, Brendon caught a glimpse of a table filled with snacks and drinks,


    illuminated by a warm orange light that bathed the cozy fabric sofa.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Ranita, are you really going?" Dn paced frantically and intercepted Eve as she emerged from


    the bathroom. "Eve, Brendon is outside and wants to take Ranita to Bouldend Mansion!"


    Eve immediately rolled up her sleeves. "What? Let me grab a broom!"


    "Both of you need to calm down!" Ranita halted her friends. "I have everything under control."


    "What control do you have? All you think about is Brendon! Those wolves at Bouldend Mansion


    will devour you!" Eve retorted.


    Ranita sighed. "Just trust me, I know what I''m doing."


    Ranita changed into a simple white shirt, jeans, and t shoes, opting not to wear any makeup. Her


    features were already striking, with herrge eyes and high nose bridge; adding lipstick would only


    enhance her beauty.


    "Pick me upter for somete-night snacks," Ranita insisted, despite Dn''s protests.


    To their surprise, Brendon was still waiting outside when she arrived. Ranita led him into the


    elevator before asking, "How did you find out where I live?"


    "It''s simple," he replied nonchntly, revealing nothing more.


    Ranita pursed her lips; she had no secrets from Brendon if he wanted to know something! That was


    why she needed to leave Stuart''s Corp or Kurima as soon as possible.


    "Mr. Stuart, my agreement to go to Bouldend Mansiones with conditions," she asserted


    firmly.


    "Go ahead," Brendon negotiated casually, withoutmitting himself just yet.


    "I want my departure from Stuart''s Corp shortened by one month." Ranita continued walking


    towards the exit, making her demand clear without looking back at him.

 Chapter 84 Ranita Is So Good At Making People Angry

    Chapter 84 Ranita Is So Good At Making People Angry


    Chapter 84 Ranita Is So Good at Making People Angry


    "For Stuart''s Corp, finding a recement within a month is more than sufficient," Ranita dered


    confidently.


    Brendon seethed with anger. Was this woman really leaving him just like that? Was she nning to


    run off into the sunset with her new man?


    Brendon chose not to respond directly but instead changed the subject. "Did I call youst night


    when I was intoxicated?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon had dreamt of gentle spring breezes, only to wake up in the middle of the night, drenched


    in sweat. He spent an hour in a cold shower to regain his sobriety.


    Upon checking his phone records, Brendon vaguely recalled dialing Ranita''s number and saying


    something about wanting to sleep with her.


    "I did receive your call," Ranita confirmed, causing Brendon''s face to flush crimson.


    "Did I say anything peculiar?" he inquired.


    "No! Mr. Stuart, you dialed my number by mistake and promptly hung up once you realized it,"


    Ranita exined, pausing to observe Brendon uncertainly. "What did you intend for me to hear?"


    Brendon found himself at a loss for words.


    However, he began to question whetherst night''s events were merely a dream after all.


    "Mr. Stuart, what are your thoughts on my proposal? If you agree, I''ll apany you on this trip.


    Otherwise, I''ll return home and rest."


    The corner of Brendon''s eye twitched slightly - it was the first time someone had dared to negotiate


    with him! This woman had grown bolder!


    "There will be substantialpensation for terminating our agreement."


    "That suits me perfectly since I have received plenty of money from you. It won''t affect me


    financially," she retorted. All the money belonged to him. It flowed out of one pocket and returned to


    another. And she wouldn''t lose anything anyway!


    Brendon was taken aback by how infuriating Ranita could be.


    "At most, one month in advance," Brendon pursed his lips. "If you calcte it, there''s just a little


    over a month remaining until the end. Can''t you wait that long?"


    She couldn''t wait any longer.


    "Mr. Stuart, you''re asking for too much!" They had initially agreed on three months, but now ten


    days had passed since then. If they reduced it to one month, she would only have to endure an


    additional twenty days before gaining her freedom. But now it had be one month and twenty


    days - an agonizingly long wait!


    "But you also made significant demands," Brendon sneered coldly. "One month earlier is


    eptable. If not, you''ll have to face financial consequences!"


    One month was still better than nothing!


    "Deal!" Ranita gritted her teeth and agreed.


    Caleb drove the car while the two of them sat silently in the backseat, not exchanging a single word


    throughout the entire journey - which made Caleb uneasy.


    Upon arriving at Bouldend Mansion, Brendon strode ahead while Caleb quietly asked Ranita,


    "Miss Bowman, are you alright?"


    Caleb was aware of her divorce from Brendon and worried that seeing him with Shannon at


    Bouldend Mansion might upset her.


    "I''m fine!" Ranita replied, strolling along and admiring the brightly colored flowers illuminated by the


    lights. "These flowers are so beautiful!"


    Previously, when she entered and exited Bouldend Mansion every day, she always felt tense and


    never rxed enough to appreciate her surroundings like this.


    "They truly are stunning," Caleb inwardly sighed. If she still had the time to admire flowers like this,


    maybe things weren''t as dire as he thought? He just hoped today''s confrontation wouldn''t escte


    into something violent or unpleasant.


    "What are you two whispering about?" Suddenly, Brendon halted and turned around, wearing an


    unhappy expression on his face.


    Ranita was lost in the beauty of the flowers when she suddenly collided with a man''s arm, causing


    her nose to throb with pain, nearly bringing tears to her eyes.

 Chapter 85 Tell The Truth

    Chapter 85 Tell The Truth


    Chapter 85 Tell the Truth


    Brendon was startled and instinctively reached out to grasp the woman''s arm. She appeared to


    have lost weight, her palm only feeling bones.


    It had only been a few days since leaving the Stuart family, and she had already shed pounds. Her


    man didn''t care enough! Brendon frowned, clearly displeased. Ranita held back her tears and took


    a few steps back. "I''m sorry."


    Brendon remained silent but cast a sidelong nce at Caleb, causing Caleb to nervously touch his


    nose. Had he spoken to Ranita too much? Did Mr. Stuart have to be so harsh?


    "Be more careful where you''re going next time!"


    "Oh..." Ranita softly replied as Shannon fluttered over like a butterfly and intimately linked arms with


    Brendon.


    "Brendon, you''re finally back!"


    Holly also arrived but didn''t dare cause a scene in front of Brendon; she just sneaked a nce at


    Ranita after speaking.


    Ranita pursed her lips as if she hadn''t noticed.


    "I''ve been busy with work for a while." Brendon seemed unenthusiastic and spoke in a t tone.


    But Shannon was excited like a chirping oriole, "Brendon, hurry up and rest inside! The banquet will


    start soon!"


    "Oh yeah! It''s great that you invited Ranita to help out! Mrs. Cather and Mr. Semeraro are already


    inside. Without Ranita, we can''tmunicate properly."


    Ranita remained silent. It was false that they couldn''tmunicate without her. They just wanted


    her there to witness their lovey-dovey behavior.


    "Ranita, thank you for your hard work today!" Shannon sweetly smiled, looking radiant after


    dressing up nicely for the asion.


    This was what they meant by being in high spirits when good things happened.


    "Caleb, you take Ranita to the guest area," Brendon had just finished saying when Holly


    volunteered herself, "Brother, Caleb must be busy, and I''m free, so I''ll take Ranita there. Besides, I


    need to talk to Anna as well."


    Holly was the daughter of the Stuart family, and Caleb didn''t want topete with her for the task.


    Ranita followed behind Holly, and after a few steps, she heard Holly sneer at her, "Ranita, are you


    shameless enough toe here?"


    "It''s just work. There''s nothing shameful about it."


    Holly didn''t believe her and stopped walking. She stared coldly at Ranita and smirked, "I think you''re


    here because you''re trying to get close to my brother! But since you''re here anyway, let me make


    something clear: my brother only has eyes for Shannon."


    Ranita was left speechless.


    She spoke the truth, but why wouldn''t anyone believe her?


    "You better watch your behavior and do your job well. If I catch you doing anything suspicious, don''t


    expect me to be polite!"


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Ranita wasn''t afraid of Holly''s threatening tone. Instead, she slyly smiled and said, "Miss Stuart, you


    certainly know how to intimidate people."


    "I''m not just intimidating you! What can you do if I decide to throw you into the pool? This is my


    territory!" Holly boasted, ncing towards the nearby swimming pool.


    "Well, thank goodness all you did was threaten me! Shouldn''t I be grateful for your leniency?"


    Ranita pped sarcastically.


    Holly didn''t catch on to Ranita''s sarcasm. Instead, she stood tall with hands on hips, demanding,


    "Enough with your words! If you were sincere, then kneel before me!"


    Ranita was speechless once again.


    She realized how foolish it was to argue back and forth with someone like Holly, who clearly had


    some screws loose in her head.

 Chapter 86 Voice Recorder

    Chapter 86 Voice Recorder


    Chapter 86 Voice Recorder


    "Oh... I remember now. Ranita, how dare you block me! I haven''t settled the score with you yet!"


    Holly seethed as she recalled the incident. Her earlier good mood vanished in an instant, and she


    tugged at her skirt, storming toward Ranita. "Let''s settle this debt right now!"


    Holly was itching for a confrontation.


    Ranita expertly sidestepped Holly''s attack and firmly grasped her wrist. "Holly, I overestimated you,"


    she remarked coolly.


    Holly yelped in pain as Ranita applied pressure to her wrist. "It hurts, it hurts! Ranita, let go of me! If


    you dare to move, I''ll have the bodyguard throw you into the pool!"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita pushed her away and retrieved a pen from her pocket. Amid the ticking of the pen, Holly''s


    bluster resounded, "You actually have the nerve toe... don''t mind... being thrown into the pool...


    and kneeling down..."


    Every word was meticulously recorded.


    "Ranita! What are you doing?" Holly, upon hearing the yback, stared at Ranita with fury zing in


    her eyes.


    Ranita calmly turned off the recording pen.


    "I don''t care... Miss Stuart, if you don''t step aside, I''ll let Brendon listen to it..."


    "Give it to me!" Holly was so enraged that she seemed almost capable of breathing fire. "Ranita,


    how can you be so cunning, secretly recording! Give me the recording right now, or I won''t spare


    you!"


    As Holly moved in to snatch the recording pen, Ranita prepared to evade her. However, a deep,


    male voice suddenly cut through the tension. "Holly, what are you trying to do?"


    "Chris..." In an instant, Holly transformed from a fiery presence to a timid quail as she gazed at


    Chris with an innocent expression. "I didn''t do anything."


    She shot a warning look at Ranita, her eyes reflecting fear.


    "Is that so?" Chris didn''t confirm whether he believed her or not. He simply spoke calmly, "I heard


    from the servant that Mrs. Stuart is looking for you. You should go see her."


    Holly''s eyes stayed locked on Chris, and she didn''t really want to leave. Yet, if he discovered she


    was bullying Ranita, how could she exin herself?


    Teenage infatuations can be soplex.


    Holly departed with reluctance.


    "Thank you, Mr. Webster!"


    "Don''t be overly polite with me," Chris replied in aposed tone. He then inquired, "What brought


    you here?"


    "Mrs. Cather andposer Arthur are here." Ranita''s words conveyed that she wasn''t entirely


    comfortable attending Shannon''s wee party given her identity.


    "Do you need any assistance?"


    "Not at the moment. We can discuss it further over the weekend." Ranita conversed with Chris


    under the dimly lit path. Theirbined attractiveness and charisma created an atmosphere


    charged with ambiguous tension.


    Holly turned around secretly, her heart heavy. The sight of Ranita being so well-treated by Chris, his


    eyes half-lidded in that manner, hinted at some deep connection between them.


    Holly felt like her heart was shattering.


    "You''re unbelievable, Ranita!" She''d had her sights on Holly''s brother, and now she was cozying up


    to Chris? Holly clenched her fists, her teeth gritted, wishing she could give Ranita a piece of her


    mind.


    But with Chris present, she didn''t dare approach them. If Chris witnessed her behaving terribly,


    would he start disliking her or think less of her? Would he assume she wasn''t gentle or virtuous


    enough?


    Holly was seething, but eventually she managed to regain herposure. Suddenly, she noticed


    Turner approaching from the other side, causing her heart to skip a beat. She promptly lifted her


    foot and headed toward him.

 Chapter 87 Stars Surrounding The Moon

    Chapter 87 Stars Surrounding The Moon


    Chapter 87 Stars Surrounding the Moon


    The Bouldend Mansion featured an opulent banquet hall. The ornate carpet showcased intricate


    handcrafted patterns, and a high ceiling was adorned with custom-designed crystal chandeliers.


    Guests from affluent families donned their finest attire, and despite the crowd, they maintained a


    sense of decorum, avoiding any excessive noise.


    The scent of fresh flowers and sweet wine wafted through the air, creating a beautiful atmosphere


    that lent an air of elegance to the gathering.


    "Mrs. Cather, Mr. Semeraro, I apologize for my tardiness." Ranita headed directly for her intended


    acquaintances.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Mrs. Cather appeared to be acquainted with Arthur and engaged in conversation with him.


    "Miss Bowman, I''m delighted you could join us!" Arthur rose courteously to shake Ranita''s hand. His


    touch was fleeting, demonstrating refinement in his manners.


    Inparison to Mrs. Cather, Ranita found people like Arthur, with their outgoing personalities,


    more appealing.


    "I''m equally pleased to see you again, Mr. Semeraro!" Ranita greeted him warmly as they


    exchanged the usual business pleasantries.


    Shortly after she took her seat in the banquet hall, Brendon arrived with Shannon, creating a bit of a


    stir among the guests. Brendon was decked out in an attention-grabbing suit that entuated his


    tall, chiseled features. His striking appearance instantly drew the gaze of everyone present,


    particrly the female attendees at the party.


    This event served as a wee party for Shannon, so many of those invited sent along younger


    family members seeking excitement in their lives. Before Brendon''s arrival, the atmosphere had


    been somewhat subdued, but now it was charged with energy, with attendees yfully teasing


    Shannon.


    "Shannon... wee back!"


    "Yeah! Thanks to you, we finally get to step into Bouldend Mansion after three years!"


    "Shannon, you''re positively radiant!"


    "You and Mr. Stuart look perfect together! So enviable!"


    "I wish I could have such joy too. I need a handsome boyfriend like that..."


    The banquet hall buzzed with activity, and Shannon, in her elegant white gown and a crown


    adorned with pink gems, stood at the center of attention, radiating the presence of a true princess.


    "Thank you all for joining my wee party. Let''s have a wonderful time!" Shannon paused and


    cast a shy nce at Brendon before continuing, "And, of course, a special thanks to Brendon for


    helping me organize this event."


    Shannon had prepared a performance, ying a beautiful cello piece that elicited apuse from all


    in attendance.


    Arthur was also enthusiastic, eximing, "Miss Murphy truly possesses remarkable talent. Her


    performance was wless."


    "Indeed," Ranita replied nonchntly.


    On this night, Shannon basked in the spotlight, surrounded by a sea of guests, particrly Brendon,


    who held her close.


    Meanwhile, Ranita wore in attire, blending into the background.


    When it came time to cut the cake, Ranita used the excuse of needing the restroom, as she


    frequently had to use it due to drinking water. As she traversed the corridor toward the restroom


    door, she finally managed to escape the cacophony of the celebration, and her mind felt


    momentarily serene.


    While washing her hands in one of the sinks, someone suddenly crowded in beside her and


    grasped her hand!


    "What are you doing?" Ranita tried to shake him off but realized that it was Turner.


    "Ranita! How could you shake off my hand? Mrs. Stuart told me about introducing you to me. I''m


    quite pleased with you, even though you''re already married. So,e be mine!"


    As he spoke, Turner leaned forward unabashedly, attempting to touch Ranita''s face.

 Chapter 88 Harassment

    Chapter 88 Harassment


    Chapter 88 Harassment


    "Ranita, your face is really beautiful! Your skin is fair and tender, just like tofu!" Turner''s heart was


    excited. This was Brendon''s ex-wife! Turner was the son of the butler and worked as a driver for


    Amiya. He was basically a servant in front of his master. Ranita used to be Brendon''s wife, and


    Amiya didn''t like her, so Turner didn''t dare to have any ideas.


    But now things were different. Ranita had been kicked out. And Amiya even said she wanted to


    match them up! This was something that Turner couldn''t even dream of!


    Although Ranita had been married before, she could make money as a trantor and was very


    good at it! She also looked pretty with a good figure...


    Turner''s eyes followed his thoughts as he looked at Ranita''s chest area, then down her slender


    waist and long legs... His gaze became hot, and he couldn''t help swallowing saliva.


    "Turner! Get lost!" Ranita felt disgusted by his gaze and forcefully pushed away his hand that


    touched her.


    "Harassing women can lead to legal consequences!"


    "Tsk tsk Ranita... we will have that kind of rtionship in the future. How can you call it


    harassment?"


    "You''re sick! Who has any rtionship with you?" Ranita knew that Turner wasn''t shy about


    anything but didn''t expect him to be so disgusting.


    Turner immediately became unhappy when he got rejected, "Ranita, don''t bite the hand that feeds


    you. I''m giving you face by talking nicely with you. If I get angry with youter on, then see how I''llN?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    deal with you!"


    "What''s wrong with being mine? You''ve been kicked out by the Stuart family now. All you are is just


    a divorcee nobody wants anymore. Do they want someone who has already been used? If you


    be mine instead, then I will definitely take care of you well in the future!"


    Turner''s ways of thinking were really unique. No one could think like him or convince themselves


    this way.


    "Turner, does Amiya have mental problems or do both of us have mental problems? I''m not Amiya''s


    daughter. If she wants to matchmake me up, then shouldn''t she listen to my opinion?" There was a


    cold smile on Ranita''s lips, "Holly is her biological daughter so maybe what she says counts more


    than yours?"


    "If you dare touch me again, then don''t me me for calling the police!"


    Ranita tried to leave but Turner stopped her with his hand. The corridor was empty without anyone


    seeing this scene over here, which made him even more brazen, "Ranita, aren''t we boyfriend-


    girlfriend now? Touching or hugging or kissing each other isn''t normal?"


    "If you report it, they''ll ignore it!"


    With that, Turner directly grabbed Ranita''s wrist and dragged her to a nearby storage room.


    As soon as he touched her, Turner''s heart raced.


    Ranita''s skin was incredibly smooth! And so fair! Her exposed hand was already this fair. Imagine


    whaty beneath those clothes...


    Just the thought of it made Turner''s blood boil.


    "Let go!" Ranita tried to break free, but she couldn''t match Turner''s strength. He had managed to


    drag her to the doorway of the storage room.


    If she were really pulled inside, who knew what might happen!


    "Turner, have you lost your mind? What do you want to do? Do you realize the consequences of


    your actions?!"


    Turner wasn''t afraid at all. Holly had assured him that she would take care of things if anything went


    wrong!


    Turner gave an eerie smile. "Of course, I know. Once you''re mine, what do I have to fear?"


    "Besides, you''ve been seducing men at Bouldend Mansion and even flirted with me. I didn''t


    comin about it. What are you so upset about..."


    His words twisted the truth.

 Chapter 89 Someone Called His Name

    Chapter 89 Someone Called His Name


    Chapter 89 Someone Called His Name


    Ranita was so infuriated that she raised her hand and pped Turner across the face!


    "Turner, let go!"


    The sound of p and shouting was clear. Turner was stunned for a moment, touching his cheek


    and staring at Ranita with a dark expression, "You dare to hit me, you bitch?"


    "You''re looking for trouble!" Turner moved quickly, rushing over and grabbing Ranita by the hair,


    forcing her head to tilt backward!


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Pain surged through Ranita, but she refused to be subdued like this. She lifted her leg and kicked


    Turner''s leg. Turner let out a heavy grunt and forcefully dragged Ranita into the storage room,


    mming the door shut with a bang!


    Ranita was pressed against the wall, her hands firmly held down by Turner. As she struggled, the


    skin on her arms stung from the friction.


    "You go away! Don''te closer!" Ranita resisted desperately, but Turner''s wicked face came


    directly to her neck!


    The feeling of nausea made Ranita tremble all over.


    She really didn''t expect that Turner would actually dare to do such a thing at the Stuart family! What


    should she do now? The bathroom was right next door, if someone heard any noise they will


    definitely be able to hear it...


    "Help! Help!" Ranita shouted loudly, but after just two shouts, Turner covered her mouth and said,


    "You bitch, what are you shouting for!"


    Saying that, Turner reached into his pocket, took out a pill, and forcefully shoved it into Ranita''s


    mouth, pressing against her throat as he ordered, "Swallow it!"


    Ranita naturally couldn''t obey; she tried hard to vomit but was tightly held by Turner''s hand over her


    mouth, and soon Ranita couldn''t hold on any longer as the pill slowly slid down her throat.


    "This medicine takes effect in just one minute. It can make you beg me to...," Turner''s sinister words


    caused Ranita''s heart to sink into an icy cave.


    Ranita thought that even if something really happened to her, she will report it to the police and


    send this beast to jail!


    "... Thirty seconds... Twenty seconds..." Turner counted with great interest, quickly reaching thest


    ten seconds. Ranita felt her brain unusually excited and her heart seemed to beat very, very fast, so


    fast that she could hear her own heartbeat!


    Turner immediately released her, knowing that the time hade. Ranita''s vision began to blur and


    her breathing became rapid.


    "What did you give me?" she asked.


    "It''s getting hot in here, isn''t it? I''ll help you cool down in a minute, but we don''t want to disturb our


    neighbors," Turner said as he began to undo his belt.


    With a jingle, Ranita''s brain and heart jumped. She tried to think of a way out but her mind was


    empty and she could only feel the heat rushing through her body, almost controlling her thoughts


    and leaving only instinct behind.


    She bit down hard on her tongue. The pain briefly cleared her mind for a few seconds as she gritted


    her teeth and yelled out, "Brendon..."


    But then the waves crashed over Ranita again and she slid down along the wall in confusion.


    Brendon? Brendon was about to leave the bathroom when he heard someone calling him! Was that


    voice... Ranita''s?! Brendon furrowed his brow as his sharp gaze fell on the storage room next door


    where there seemed to be some movement inside!


    He hesitated for a second before finally deciding to walk towards it! The next second, he heard low


    sobbinging from inside!


    Brendon''s mind shook as he kicked open the door. When he saw Ranita lying on the ground with


    flushed cheeks and misty eyes, anger boiled up within him!

 Chapter 90 Bite Him Once

    Chapter 90 Bite Him Once


    Chapter 90 Bite Him Once


    "Mr. Stuart..." Turner was originally excited, but he was so scared that his throat felt like it had been


    stuck with a fishbone and he couldn''t speak. "Mr. Stuart, listen to me... I can exin..."


    "Get out!" Brendon red at Turner angrily, not even listening to him speak before kicking him


    away.


    Turner rolled two meters away before finally stopping.


    Brendon rushed over to Ranita''s side and only when he got close did he realize that half of her


    clothes had been torn apart, one shoulder strap broken off, revealing arge portion of her soft skin.


    Brendon''s eyes immediately turned red with anger.


    Damn it! He should have kicked Turner harder!


    "Ranita!" Brendon called out to her but noticed that she was blushing slightly and looking at him as


    she rubbed her face against his hand...


    All the pent-up anger in Brendon suddenly burst forth like mes.


    He took off his suit jacket and wrapped it around Ranita''s body before immediately calling Caleb to


    come deal with Turner.


    "Mr. Stuart... listen to me exin..." The kick from Brendon had been too heavy; it almost broke


    Turner''s ribs. He was sweating all over but didn''t dare move in front of Brendon.


    He could only kneel on the ground trembling and begging for mercy.


    Brendon kicked him again without even looking at him while making the phone call. By then, half of


    Ranita''s body had already rubbed against his chest, giving her greatfort from feeling his solid


    abdominal muscles through his shirt which made her feel cool all over...


    Ranita tried hard to control herself but this man in front of her was Brendon. Any remaining


    rationality she may have possessed disappeared long ago. She felt as if she were possessed by a


    fox spirit as she softened her arms and pushed herself into Brendon''s embrace with all her might...


    "Ranita!" Brendon''s face turned dark as he was inadvertently bumped into. His gaze was icy, but


    there were turbulent emotions brewing beneath the surface, surging upwards in waves. His already


    deep eyes grew even darker.


    The man bent down and lifted Ranita into his arms. Ranita reached out and hugged his neck, her


    warm cheek pressing against his throat.


    Brendon didn''t like to be touched on the neck.


    Ranita, however, deliberately chose to nuzzle and yfully nibble at his sensitive spot.


    "Ranita! Don''t move! Are you a dog?" Brendon was so agitated that his eyes turned red, but he


    didn''t have a penchant for outdoor intimacy, so he walked faster.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    The door was locked.


    Ranita was thrown onto the big bed, which was specially customized with good sticity and great


    comfort. She didn''t feel any pain, but rather felt ufortable all over her body.


    A rush of excitement surged through her brain. In her blurred vision, a white shirt slowly


    approached, and long legs knelt by the edge of the bed, her chin also tilted up.


    "Ranita... do you know who I am?"


    Ranita heard Brendon calling her name, very softly, like a feathernding perfectly on her heart. It


    turned into a gust of wind, blowing away the dust and revealing the love she had been umting


    for Brendon.


    The little woman looked at him foolishly and nodded.


    "I know... you are Brendon..."


    The person in front of her was Brendon.


    He was the person hidden in the deepest part of her heart.


    "Good girl!" Brendon heard the answer he wanted to hear, and his mood inexplicably improved. If


    Ranita had dared to utter another man''s name, he would have definitely strangled her!


    "Brendon... I feel ufortable..." Ranita reached out to hug him, with a tone so gentle and


    charming that it was irresistible.


    Her eyes turned red at the corners, and her gaze was like a hook.


    When their lips tangled together, things got out of control.

 Chapter 91 Not The Original Intention

    Chapter 91 Not The Original Intention


    Chapter 91 Not the Original Intention


    In the bedroom, the temperature was like a fire burning. Until a slight pain spread from her


    abdomen, Ranita''s lost sanity finally returned a little, and she found it hard to face the situation in


    front of her.


    Was she crazy? How could she do such a thing?


    The shame made Ranita''s heart ache. She raised her still soft hand to block Brendon, "Brendon!"


    Ranita''s eyes were still red with desire, and tears hung on her eyshes that he had "bullied" out of


    her. Now this woman looked beautiful and fragile, but also more tempting to "bully".


    Brendon ced his palm on her lower back and silently stared at her.


    Ranita felt numb under his gaze, not knowing what to say or do.


    "Brendon... my stomach hurts..." For a moment, she wanted to tell him about the baby but couldn''t


    get the words out.


    Ranita avoided eye contact with him and looked guilty.


    "Isn''t this excuse toome?" He yanked on her wrist fiercely as if venting his anger.


    Brendon lowered his head again to kiss her while the pain in Ranita''s lower abdomen intensified.


    The pain made Ranita regain more of her sanity as she reached up to touch Brendon''s chin with


    ck eyes filled with pleading.


    Brendon''s face became even darker as he gathered an impending storm in his cold gaze, "Ranita...


    I can live without you!"


    One sentence pierced her heart deeply. Ranita''s heart sank into the icy water, almost suffocating


    her.


    "Brendon, I''m sorry!" Ranita didn''t know how to exin herself, but she couldn''t risk the baby in her


    belly.


    She quickly got dressed and stumbled out of the room.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Wait!" Suddenly, the man called out to her.


    "Ranita... did you eat something you shouldn''t have?" Brendon''s voice was low and menacing.


    "Well... I have to go." The pain in Ranita''s lower abdomen began to subside, but the heat inside her


    body started rising again. She felt ashamed and embarrassed about what had just happened.


    As she spoke, a pink blush spread across her face. Her eyes sparkled with moisture and looked


    even more alluring after the stimtion from earlier. Even her voice carried a hint of post-


    sweetness.


    Ranita was unsteady on her feet as she walked away unsteadily.


    "Who are you going to see like this? Which man? Dn or Steve? Or maybe that Turner guy from


    earlier..." Brendon grabbed onto Ranita''s wrist and spewed hurtful words at her in anger.


    Brendon was really losing it now!


    Anyone could tell that Ranita wasn''t doing well at all - she could be attacked by wolves if she went


    outside like this!


    "I don''t need your help!" With a cold heart, Ranita shook off his hand. "What happened with you


    earlier wasn''t my intention..."


    Brendon withdrew his suspended hand.


    It wasn''t intentional...


    Her feelings for him were not intentional, but whose intentions were they? Could she feel this way


    about just any man?


    "Get out of here!" Brendon turned around, losing hisposure for the first time. His anger erupted


    like a volcano, almost consuming him entirely.

 Chapter 92 Which Hand Did You Touch Her With?

    Chapter 92 Which Hand Did You Touch Her With?


    Chapter 92 Which Hand Did You Touch Her With?


    Ranita fled in a panic.


    She didn''t even have time to say goodbye to Mrs. Cather and Arthur before she escaped from


    Bouldend Mansion.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    One of the straps on Ranita''s bra had broken, so she had to hold her shoulder with one hand, trying


    her best not to look too disheveled.


    Unfortunately, it wasn''t easy to hail a cab outside of Bouldend Mansion.


    Ranita reached into her pocket and realized that her phone was still in the banquet hall. Not only


    was she broke, but she also couldn''t notify any friends toe pick her up.


    Ranita cursed under her breath.


    "Beep beep!" Suddenly, a horn honked behind her and Ranita turned around to see Chris rolling


    down his car window.


    "Ranita, why are you alone here?"


    Ranita saw Chris and immediately approached him. "Mr. Webster, can you give me a ride to the


    hospital?"


    "Do you feel unwell?" Chris noticed that Ranita''s cheeks were unusually red under the streetlight


    and that she seemed unstable on her feet.


    "A little bit..." Ranita replied weakly as Chris quickly got out of his car and helped support Ranita


    while opening the passenger door for her. He even kindly fastened her seatbelt, "I''ll take you


    straight there."


    "Can you help me find Dr. Pearson?" As Ranita clung onto the seatbelt tightly, trying hard not lose


    control over herself due to feeling ufortable all over.


    Waves of heat surged through, causing sweat beads across every inch of skin on hers and making


    it difficult for clear thinking while he drove towards their destination - hospital where Dr. Pearson


    worked at.


    Bouldend Mansion loomed behind them as they drove away from it all...


    Brendon rushed out of the shower and found Caleb waiting for him outside. "Mr. Stuart, I''ve got


    Turner tied up without alerting anyone. Do you want me to bring him over?" Caleb asked.


    "What about Ranita?" Brendon exploded in anger in the bathroom. He regretted letting Ranita go;


    he should have pinned her down on the bed.


    Caleb hesitated, looking a bit scared to answer. "Um... I saw Mr. Webster take her away," he finally


    said.


    "Chris? Why does it alwayse back to Chris? How many men is this damn woman involved


    with?" Brendon fumed.


    "Yes! Also, this is something Miss Bowman left behind in the banquet hall." Caleb ced Ranita''s


    bag on the vanity table along with some cosmetics that likely belonged to her but she didn''t take


    them when she left, and Brendon didn''t bother cleaning them up either.


    "Forget it!" Brendon gritted his teeth in visible anger. "Bring Turner over!"


    Brendon changed into a new outfit and went downstairs where Caleb had already brought Turner


    over who was kneeling at the bottom of the stairs shaking uncontrobly with his head bowed down


    low.


    "Mr... Stuart..." Turner trembled as soon as he felt Brendon''s gaze upon him; cold sweat pouring


    down his face making it impossible for him to speak any further.


    Brendon slowly walked past him and sat on the sofa like a king overlooking his subject - treating


    Turner like a dog, "Turner, which hand did you use?"


    Turner was so scared that he could barely stand or speak, "Mr. Stuart, it wasn''t me! It was all


    Ranita''s doing! She seduced me!"


    "It''s true! Mr. Stuart, I''ve been loyal to your family for so many years now. How could I do such a


    thing? It was all because of Ranita!"


    With an icy expression on his face and low voice tone, Brendon asked again, "Which hand did you


    use?"


    "Mr. Stuart..."


    "If you won''t tell me then both hands will be broken!" As soon as those words came out of Brendon''s


    mouth, the security guards grabbed hold of Turner, muffling any cries or screams before dragging


    him out without mercy or hesitation.

 Chapter 93 Self-Directed And Self-Acted

    Chapter 93 Self-Directed And Self-Acted


    Chapter 93 Self-Directed And Self-Acted


    The party was lively, but Brendon was nowhere to be found during the second half. This made


    Shannon feel a bit embarrassed and she wanted to go out and find him several times, but other


    people kept getting in her way. By the time Amiya received the message and told her, the party was


    almost over.


    In the lounge.


    Shannon was so angry that she wanted to smash the teacup in her hand several times, but with


    Amiya there, she could only cry with red eyes and a pitiful expression.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Auntie, Brendon is really too much this time. Leaving halfway through is bad enough, but he even


    went with Ranita... If someone else finds out about it, where can I face it?"


    As Shannon spoke, tears streamed down her face. Anyone who saw her would feel soft-hearted


    and sympathetic.


    "Shannon, don''t cry! What happened this time is Brendon''s fault after all!" After speaking these


    words, Amiya looked at Holly irritably, "If it weren''t for you, how could things have turned out like


    this, you idiot!"


    Holly felt wronged by the scolding and pouted, defending herself, "How was I supposed to know that


    Turner was such a loser and couldn''t even handle a woman? I also didn''t expect him to be so


    stupid, actually running into my brother!"


    Just then, Robert John, the butler, rushed in and immediately kowtowed to Amiya. "Madam, please,


    save Turner! In light of my many years of service and hard work, Madam, please intercede with Mr.


    Stuart!"


    "In this situation, Madam, Turner was only momentarily misled and made a mistake. It must have


    been that shameless seductress, Ranita, who tempted him! And now she''s turning the tables!"


    "Madam, please, you must speak up for Turner!"


    Robert had been working in Bouldend Mansion for many years and had always been Amiya''s


    trusted aide. Now that he hade to her seeking help, Amiya couldn''t just ignore him.


    However, even if Amiya wanted to help, Turner had ended up in Brendon''s hands this time. So,


    even with her best efforts, it might not be possible for her to intervene. She had to say, "Robert, get


    up first, and I''ll do my best."


    "Thank you, Madam!"


    While Amiya hadn''t given a definite answer, there was at least a response. Turner might still have a


    chance, but if Brendon got angry, he definitely wouldn''t be able to stay at Bouldend Mansion.


    Robert had his own agenda. It was fine if Turner was driven out, but he couldn''t afford to be


    completely expelled from Bouldend Mansion after so many years of working. That was why he


    hurriedly went to Amiya to seek sympathy.


    Amiya and her group went to find Brendon. The man was quietly flipping through files in his study


    when Amiya entered. He looked up and asked, "What''s up?"


    Brendon was distant even with his own mother, which chilled her heart.


    "Brendon, I heard something happened here so I came to check it out."


    "It''s a small matter," Brendon replied coldly, clearly unwilling to talk further.


    Amiya had no choice but to be direct, "Even if Turner did something wrong, he is still part of


    Bouldend Mansion. Ranita has nothing to do with our family anymore. There are no cameras


    there either. What evidence do we have that proves Turner is at fault?"


    "Maybe Ranita staged this whole thing just to bother you..."


    Brendon couldn''t take it anymore! If she really did this just to bother him, he wouldn''t be so angry


    right now!


    That woman ran away happily while he was about ready to explode.


    "Mom, I don''t want to talk about this anymore! Caleb will handle things on Turner''s end. Please


    don''t interfere." With one sentence from Brendon the matter was settled. Amiya was furious but she


    couldn''t do anything in front of her son.

 Chapter 94 Resolving Hatred

    Chapter 94 Resolving Hatred


    Chapter 94 Resolving Hatred


    "Nothing else. Mom, go rest!" Brendon ushered Amiya out of the study.


    As soon as she stepped outside, Robert eagerly approached her. Seeing Amiya''s gloomy


    expression, his heart sank.


    "Madam..."


    "Don''t mention Turner''s matter again! And tell him not to speak nonsense. If I hear anything from


    him, don''t me me for being impolite!" Amiya spoke in a calm tone but with a warning undertone.


    Fortunately for Robert, she didn''t mention his job security. He breathed a sigh of relief and held onto


    his position.


    But inside he harbored resentment towards Ranita.


    Amiya returned to her bedroom where Holly was waiting for her. "Mom, how is my brother doing?"


    "What can he do? Can I change what he has decided?" Amiya''s tone was already unpleasant. She


    had spent years trying to keep her family in Bouldend Mansion and raise her own son into


    sess but he had turned against her wishes.


    "Oh... what about Turner? Will he rat me out if my brother finds out it was me who wanted Turner..."


    Holly trailed off as Amiya interrupted her mid-sentence.


    "What nonsense are you talking about? You didn''t even talk to Turner today!"


    "Don''t bring this up again! Do you understand?"


    Holly nodded happily at the thought that as long as it wasn''t rted to herself then everything would


    be fine. She clung affectionately onto Amiya''s arm and cooed, "Thank you mom! You''re so good to


    me!"


    "Hmph! Think about the consequences before doing anything next time. There were so many


    people at this wee party today. If something went wrong, it could have easily be gossip


    fodder." Although she despised Ranita just like everyone else did at Bouldend Mansion, she also


    didn''t want any negative rumors spreading around either.


    "I know! I''m just angry!" Holly bit down on her lip thinking back on what she saw earlier which made


    her feel uneasy. "Mom... you don''t know that woman Ranita. One moment she''s clinging onto my


    brother and then next thing you know she''s cozying up with Dn and now openly flirting with Chris


    too?! If I don''t teach that woman a lesson, how can I get rid of this hatred in my heart?"


    Amiya frowned at the words. "Is this really happening?"


    "Of course! Forget about Dn, but now she''s shamelessly going after Chris..." Amiya had long


    noticed Holly''s interest in Chris, but he was several years older and hadn''t shown any interest in


    Holly, so Amiya didn''t want her daughter to pursue him.


    "It looks like Ranita can''t stay in Kurima anymore!" Amiya had thought it wouldn''t be a big deal to let


    things y out for a few days, but now it seemed necessary to get rid of Ranita as soon as


    possible.


    ...


    Ranita was dazed and felt herself being lifted up.


    This person smelled different from Brendon. There was a fresh soap scent... After a moment of


    confusion, Ranita remembered that she must have gotten into Chris'' car.


    So the person holding her should be Chris!


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Mr. Webster..." Ranita blushed and half-closed her eyes withzy nces that were still very


    alluring.


    Chris'' heart raced with excitement.


    "Ranita, we''ll be there in a moment!" Chris said as he walked, his pace quick. Ranita felt


    disoriented, her head spinning, and her body ufortable. Being so close to Chris was making it


    worse. She worried about what might happen if she made a mistake.


    Ranita felt like everything was swaying, and when she was carried into a luxurious bathroom, she


    finally realized, "Uh... where is this?"


    Could it be that Chris had ulterior motives?

 Chapter 95 Regret

    Chapter 95 Regret


    Chapter 95 Regret


    "Chris! What... what are you doing?" Ranita was so scared that she even huped, and she called


    Chris by his first name.


    Chris chuckled twice and found Ranita a little cute.


    He poked Ranita''s forehead with his hand. "What are you thinking about? I called Steve, and he


    asked me to prepare some warm water for you. He''ll be here in about fifteen minutes."


    "Is that okay?"


    Ranita felt embarrassed by what he said and nodded quickly. "Yes, it''s fine."


    "I''m going out now. Let me know if you need anything!" Chris paused for a moment before adding,


    "Your clean clothes are on the shelf."


    Chris left but thoughtfully closed the door behind him! Ranita locked the door with her weak legs,


    washed her face with water while holding it in her hands, and sshed cold water on her skin to


    clear her mind a bit.


    The bathtub was filled with warm water. After taking off her clothes, Ranita soaked herself in it and


    immediately felt extremelyfortable! The effect of the medicine had probably worn off somewhat;


    as she became more sober-minded again, everything that had happened between Brendon and


    herself became clearer.


    "Oh no! What am I going to do?" Ranita felt like she was going crazy. However, at that time under


    those circumstances there wasn''t much control over what happened!


    Ranita''s mood wasplicated.


    "Knock knock!" There came a knocking sound from outside the door, "Ranita, Steve is here."


    "Okay! I''ming out now!" Ranita responded and quickly got out of the bathtub. As she dried


    herself off, she noticed the marks on her skin, which only added to herplex emotions.


    After getting dressed andposing herself, she finally opened the door and went out. Steve, while


    checking on her, asked, "Feeling better now?"


    Chris wasn''t stupid, and he could tell that something was off with Ranita''s state of mind. Steve,


    being a doctor, also understood what was going on, but neither of them asked too many questions.


    "I''m feeling better!"


    Steve paused for a moment and saw that Ranita''s mental state had indeed improved significantly.


    "I''ll give you a shot, so rest well! Come to the hospital tomorrow and I''ll do a detailed examination


    for you."


    "If you still feel ufortable at night, take another bath. But don''t use water that''s too cold." In


    fact, using cool water would be more effective. However, since Ranita was pregnant it wouldn''t be


    good to soak in cold water; it wouldn''t be worth the risk if she caught a cold.


    "Thank you Dr. Pearson!" Ranita said before turning to Chris, "And thank you Mr. Webster!"


    "Don''t mention it! I have some things to attend to so I''ll leave first." Chris politely excused himself


    while Ranita wanted to see him off but was stopped by Steve, "Don''t tire yourself out. Rest well!"


    "I''ll just walk out with Chris then!"


    Ranita was exhausted and almost fell asleep as soon as she touched the bed. However, her sleep


    wasn''t very peaceful because all she could dream about were Brendon''s strong arms and sturdy


    chest.


    ...


    Shannon was still angry with Brendon; she wanted him to exin himself but waited all night


    without hearing from him.


    Finally unable to bear it any longer, Shannon swept everything off her desk in frustration.


    Fortunately, tonight''s events hadn''t leaked yet. If people who attended the banquet found out about


    them, they would surelyugh at her!


    "Ranita!" Shannon gritted her teeth when suddenly her phone rang. It was one of her friends from


    Kurima contacting her.


    "Shannon, is this Chris?" This girl also came from an affluent family but not on the level of the Stuart


    or Webster families like Shannon did. They had met several times before and even added each


    other as friends on social media so this message might have been sent just for gossip purposes.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "My friend saw him holding onto another woman over here while we were ying around," The


    message included an attached picture as proof.

 Chapter 96 Delivering Leverage To The Doorstep

    Chapter 96 Delivering Leverage To The Doorstep


    Chapter 96 Delivering Leverage to the Doorstep


    Chris''s face wasn''t fully captured in the photo, only a side profile that was slightly blurry. If Shannon


    wasn''t familiar with him, she probably wouldn''t have recognized him at all. But the person he was


    holding in his arms was unmistakably Ranita! Shannon''s eyes lit up with excitement. She had been


    trying to find some leverage on Ranita and now it had fallen right into herp!


    "Did they really go into the hotel?" Shannon quickly replied.


    "Yes! I saw them get into the elevator! Do you know who she is? This woman is something else, she


    actually managed to snag Chris!" The bitterness in her tone was palpable.


    "I''ve never seen her before in our circle, definitely not some rich girl from a prominent family!"


    Shannon retorted. "Thanks for letting me know though, I''ll make sure to talk some sense into Chris


    before he gets taken advantage of."


    "That''s right. She looks like a bitch! To be held like that in public... she has no shame..."


    Shannon didn''t have time for this argument though; she immediately grabbed her phone and went


    to find Brendon.


    "Brendon..." She ced the coffee gently on his desk and brushed back her hair behind one ear.


    "It''s gettingte and you shouldn''t strain your eyes reading those files all night."


    Brendon felt frustrated but kept quiet as he tried to relieve stress through work without looking up


    from his documents, "What do you need?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Well... I just wanted to ask if there was anything going on with Ranita? Why did she suddenly leave


    halfway through?" Shannon hesitated before asking.


    "I don''t know." Brendon''s anger red up again at the mention of Ranita - that damn woman...


    "I see," Shannon lowered her head, but inside, a storm was raging. She was so angry she could


    have stomped on Ranita; she couldn''t believe he was helping her conceal this!


    "I thought she was upset! Becauseing to help disrupted her date."


    Shannon''s voice was soft and gentle, sounding nothing like someone trying to sow discord. Instead,


    it carried a sense of self-me. Brendon furrowed his brow and closed the file.


    "It''s not your fault, Shannon. You don''t need to say it like that. And Ranita isn''t upset, nor does she


    have a date."


    "But..." Shannon pursed her lips, knowing that her opportunity had arrived. She handed the phone


    over to Brendon, the message having been edited down to just one sentence and a picture.


    "Look at this! I thought Ranita was only familiar with Steve, but I didn''t expect her to be close with


    Chris too!" Shannon emphasized thest word, driving the point home before easily burying the


    thorn in Brendon''s heart.


    Brendon stared at the picture for two seconds. "Is that so? Ranita has nothing to do with me


    anymore. I don''t care about her business." He paused before handing back the phone to Shannon.


    "Don''t mention her in front of me again."


    Shannon couldn''t contain her joyous smile but forced herself to hold it back as she softly sighed,


    "Ranita helped you a lot at work before... we''ll still have to work together in the future... Brendon,


    don''t get angry for no reason..."


    "Shannon, I''m still busy here. If you have nothing else going on, then go find Holly." Brendon


    interrupted her words; his heart was tangled up like a ball of yarn and he couldn''t make sense of it


    all.


    Seeing that she had achieved what she wanted, Shannon quickly said goodbye and left. Once


    alone again, Brendon put down his pen and rubbed his temples before taking out his phone and


    calling Chris.


    The call went through without any strange sounds or surprises; for some reason though he felt like


    a weight had been lifted off his chest.

 Chapter 97 Being Stubborn

    Chapter 97 Being Stubborn


    Chapter 97 Being Stubborn


    "Brendon, why are you calling me sote?" Chris had just gotten home and barely had a chance to


    take a sip of water before Brendon''s call came in.


    "Where are you?" Brendon''s voice was heavy, and he didn''t sound too happy. Chris could probably


    guess why. "I''m at home."


    "I ran into Ranita when I left Bouldend Mansion. She wasn''t feeling well, so I took her to the


    hotel." Chris kindly exined, "Don''t worry, I didn''t take advantage of her."


    "Who asked you to exin?" Brendon coldly retorted, "I divorced Ranita and have nothing to do


    with her anymore. It doesn''t matter who she''s with now."


    Chris chuckled lightly, "Then why did you call me?"


    Brendon found himself unable to argue back.


    "Want toe out for a drink?" Brendon forcefully changed the subject.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "No thanks," Chris replied with anotherugh. "I''m pretty tired tonight and want to rest early."


    After a pause, Chris added, "Ranita is in room 1988 at the Four Seasons Hotel if anythinges


    up!"


    Chris hung up the phone and finally loosened his tie as he leaned back on the couch. He couldn''t


    help but mock himself for being such an obedient person.


    Unable to get hold of Chris, Brendon ended up taking Caleb out instead!


    Caleb looked very innocent, but as a dedicated subordinate, he had to help alleviate his boss''s


    concerns. He could only muster the courage and say, "Mr. Stuart, is there anything I can assist you


    with?"


    Brendon nced at him without saying anything; he simply tasted the red wine in his ss silently.


    Caleb shut up altogether after that while Brendon drank two sses before suddenly asking Caleb


    half-closed eyes, "Caleb, I feel terrible."


    "Why?" Caleb asked calmly.


    "Because of Ranita!" Brendon couldn''t understand it. He had nned to remove Ranita from his life,


    but now he found himself... not wanting to let her go.


    Brendon was conflicted and couldn''t figure it out.


    "What did Miss Bowman do that upset you, Mr. Stuart?" Caleb thought for a moment. Ranita was


    always sensible in her actions, never making mistakes with the tasks she was given. In fact, Caleb


    really liked working with Ranita because of this.


    "She''s done so much! She always makes me angry and argues with me! And she''s despicable too -


    she''s already dating another man even though she hasn''t finalized our divorce yet!" Brendon


    mmed his ss on the table. "She''s still technically married!"


    Caleb was at loss for words.


    Can he hear this?


    Had Brendon had too much to drink? What if he sobered up and decided to move him to another


    country? Caleb really wanted to cover his ears for safety!


    But Brendon continued, "Caleb, what does Ranita want anyway?"


    Caleb dryly replied, "Mr. Stuart... I think Miss Bowman is still the same as before when ites to


    work! And since Miss Bowman has divorced you and moved on, finding someone else shouldn''t be


    a problem!"


    After speaking, Caleb received a death stare from Brendon.


    "Mr. Stuart... have you had too much to drink? Should I take you back home so you can rest?"


    Caleb couldn''t handle it anymore; he swore that from now on he would turn off his phone at night


    and go straight to bed!


    Brendon also felt bored and decided just to go home and sleep.


    But he didn''t sleep well; all night long in a daze-like state trapped in dreams where all there was


    were Ranita''s delicate features shrouded by misty white foggy clouds.


    At midnight, Brendon woke up abruptly and muttered a curse under his breath.

 Chapter 98 Is He Having A Problem?

    Chapter 98 Is He Having A Problem?


    Chapter 98 Is He Having a Problem?


    This kind of surprise had never happened even during his teenage years.


    Brendon took an hour-long cold shower and then pondered for half an hour, feeling like he had a


    problem. After thinking it over, he finally called Steve.


    Although the two of them had just barely argued before, there was no lingering resentment between


    men.


    "What are you doing up sote?" Steve was on night duty today and had just dozed off when the


    phone rang.


    Brendon hesitated for a moment before pursing his lips. "I think I have a problem."


    "Come in tomorrow to get checked out. Tell me what''s wrong and I''ll see if there''s a specialist


    avable to give you an appointment." Steve was a surgical specialist, so not all illnesses were


    within his area of expertise.


    "I... had a dream!" Brendon said anxiously.


    There was silence on Steve''s end of the line.


    "What man hasn''t dreamed that dream?" Steve calmly replied. "Change your pants and go back to


    sleep!"


    "Steve, I''ve never had this dream before!" Brendon''s tone was serious as if he''d encountered an


    iprehensible problem! From childhood onwards, Brendon had been calm and restrained with


    strong opinions. At sixteen years old, he started taking over the family business. At eighteen while


    studying in college, he worked part-time jobs. Until now everything went ording to n without


    any mistakes except for three years ago when Wyatt forced him into marriage with Ranita against


    his will!


    "Never? Not even during puberty?" Although Steve could be aloof at times, puberty can be


    embarrassing for anyone. But since childhood he had been interested in medicine as well as having


    excellent knowledge about physiology, so although it may have been slightly awkward for him too,


    he still managed to pass through puberty perfectly fine!


    "No!"


    "You''re really not human!" Steve summed up with one sentence. "Maybe this is your dyed


    adolescence! But if you want to see a specialist, let me make an appointment for you."


    "My personal opinion is that it isn''t necessary. When men are stimted, they produce associated


    dreams which can lead to nocturnal emissions. These are normal physiological phenomena among


    males."


    Steve said it, and Brendon had learned it too.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Was he feeling stimted? He was stimted by Ranita! And halfway through the stimtion, she


    ran away, leaving him in a state of confusion. Brendon thought of Ranita and suddenly felt the anger


    that had calmed down surge up again.


    That cold heart wrapped in frost seemed to have been burned fiercely for a moment. He felt a sense


    of regret and realized that he shouldn''t have divorced Ranita.


    He wanted Ranita.


    His body was craving for her madly.


    "Steve, don''t fall for Ranita!" Brendon suddenly changed the subject. Steve paused for a few


    seconds before replying, "Whether I like her or not is my business."


    "Steve!"


    "Brendon, I don''t want to argue with you!" Steve sighed. "You divorced Ranita. If you did it for her


    good, then don''t interfere with her affairs anymore."


    "Don''t make her hate you." Steve hung up the phone.


    Brendon held his phone tightly and fell onto the bed with a thud, limbs spread out. The bed that


    used to be incredibly soft andfortable now felt ufortable!


    In the middle of the night, Brendon experienced insomnia for the first time.


    Early in the morning, a Bentley drove straight from Bouldend Mansion to the Four Seasons Hotel.


    After parking by the roadside, the driver couldn''t help but ask, "Mr. Stuart, are you waiting for


    someone? Would you like to go inside and wait?"


    Brendon didn''t move but stared at door while propping his chin up.


    After some time passed by when he was about getting off from car; suddenly familiar figure


    appeared!


    "Ranita!"


    Brendon raised his eyebrows and was about to get out of the car when he noticed a man following


    her from behind...


    In an instant, Brendon''s face darkened.

 Chapter 99 A Date

    Chapter 99 A Date


    Chapter 99 A Date


    "Mr. Stuart, is that Miss Bowman? Are you going to pick her up?" The driver asked, but at the same


    time couldn''t see Brendon''s expression.


    "Is he Miss Bowman''s boyfriend? He looks quite handsome!"


    Brendon felt like his heart was stabbed with a knife.


    "He''s not her boyfriend!" Brendon retorted. "She has someone else."


    "Wow! Miss Bowman really has a boyfriend! But of course, she''s so pretty!" The driver didn''t


    understand what Brendon was hiding and finished speaking before realizing that Brendon had a


    cold expression on his face. He immediately shut up.


    Ranita had rested at the hotelst night and hadn''t slept well. She felt restless all over and even


    went for a bath in the middle of the night because she was ufortable.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Without her phone, Ranita could only use the hotelndline to call Dn and ask him toe pick


    her up so they could go drink tea with Eve at a teahouse.


    "Eve wanted to go there before but we couldn''t book a private room. Let''s fulfill her wish this time,"


    Dn reached out to support Ranita as he spoke, "You really should have called me when you lost


    your phonest night. I could have picked you up and taken you home!"


    Last night at Bouldend Mansion, Ranita hadn''t mentioned a word about what had happened. As


    for Chris and Steve, Ranita believed they wouldn''t ask too many questions either.


    She felt a strong sense of guilt. If she intervened between Brendon and Shannon, she would be


    considered a mistress, even though it wasn''t her intention. But she had be entangled in the


    situation.


    Just then, the familiar Bentley pulled up in front of her, and the car window rolled down, revealing


    Brendon''s expression. "Ranita, let''s talk."


    "Mr. Stuart, there''s nothing for us to talk about!" Ranita responded, and Dn, even more nervous


    than her, chimed in, "Brendon, what do you want? I warn you, you''re constantly bothering Ranita,


    but she''s not interested in you!"


    "Mr. Stuart, Dn speaks candidly. I hope you don''t mind," Ranita pushed Dn gently and


    continued, "We have another appointment, so we won''t disturb you, Mr. Stuart."


    Ranita got into Dn''s car, leaving Brendon stunned.


    Brendon suppressed his anger and took a while to calm down. Ranita had rejected him again! And


    it was because she wanted to go on a date with Dn?!


    "Mr. Stuart... where are we going now? Back to the office?"


    "Let''s go back." So, Brendon, the boss of Stuart''s Corp, arrived at the office earlier than usual and


    had already dealt with most of his work before his secretary even started working, scaring everyone


    in the secretary''s department.


    Ranita had a happy dim sum breakfast with Dn and Eve before sending Eve off to the airport.


    Eve really didn''t want to leave. She said, "Dn, while I''m gone, if Ranita loses a single hair, you''re


    the one I''ll hold responsible!"


    Ranita smiled warmly and hugged Eve. "Don''t scare Dn like that! I''m a mature adult now. I''ll take


    care of myself."


    Ranita didn''t mention what happenedst night but not returning home directly definitely had


    reasons behind it. However, clever as she was, Eve didn''t ask about it either - not because she


    didn''t want to but because she didn''t have time for anything that wouldn''t help her.


    "Okay! See you when I get back!"


    The first thing Ranita did when she returned to Stuart''s Corp was find Brendon, "Mr. Stuart... my


    phone is still at Bouldend Mansion. Can you return it to me?"


    "Weren''t there no more conversations between us?" Brendon looked up at her coldly.


    Ranita wasn''t too insistent on this matter either. Her phone was just important in her bag but


    fortunately she backed everything up so buying another phone wasn''t difficult. As for other things


    like lipstick or small hair clips they weren''t worth much anyway.


    "Well then... I''ll give it to you," Ranita turned around and left without looking back.

 Chapter 100 Arrogant And Conceited

    Chapter 100 Arrogant And Conceited


    Chapter 100 Arrogant and Conceited


    Ranita walked away without looking back, leaving Brendon feeling a little anxious.


    Couldn''t this woman say something nice? But she was already gone and he couldn''t chase after


    her. He could only stare at thedy''s bag in the drawer with frustration.


    Ranita got a new phone and bought a new SIM card, restoring all her data. She realized that she


    had promised Steve to go to the hospital around noon, but even if she had to go there, she needed


    to have lunch first.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Olivia, I''m taking you out for lunch today. Let''s talk!" Ranita wanted to discuss future ns with


    Olivia. She decided that once Stuart''s Corp project waspleted, she would leave Kurima directly


    and let the studio handle it on their own. Olivia had been following her for some time now and


    Ranita didn''t want to mistreat her.


    Olivia probably knew what was going on and looked quite emotional.


    "Okay, let me grab something!"


    Seeing Olivia looking upset, Ranita patted her hand gently. "Olivia, don''t be sad! Cheer up!"


    "How can I be happy?" Olivia didn''t know what to do as Holly suddenly intervened in their affairs by


    bing a major shareholder of their studio which would definitely affect Ranita.


    "Don''t worry! I''ve got your back! Let''s go eat happily!" Ranita had already made up her mind that


    even if she left, she would make sure everything was arranged properly for Olivia who had great


    work abilities so someone else will definitely want her on board.


    "Ranita..." Olivia wanted to say more but Holly suddenly barged into their studio with bodyguards in


    tow.


    Seeing Holly gave Olivia an instant headache but still went ahead of Rantia, "Miss Stuart hello!"


    "Move aside!" Ignoring Olivapletely, Holly lifted up chin arrogantly while pushing Oliva aside


    before heading straight towards Rantia.


    "Holly, do you need anything?" Rantia stood firm while calmly staring at Holly


    Holly sneered, "Are you even asking me that? You''ve got some nerve, shamelessly flirting with my


    brother right in front of Shannon..."


    "Miss Stuart, don''t go too far!" Olivia couldn''t help but defend Ranita, "You''re ndering her!"


    Holly was interrupted and her mood immediately became bad.


    "Who are you? It''s my turn to talk to Ranita, not yours!" Holly warned Olivia, "Get lost!"


    "Ranita, do you dare to say that you didn''t do it?"


    Ranita''s face turned pale all of a sudden. It wasn''t intentional, but something inappropriate did


    happenst night.


    "Holly, things are not the way you think..."


    "I don''t care about the process. I only care about the result!" Holly interrupted her fiercely. "Ranita,


    I''ve said it before, if I catch you hanging around my brother again, I''ll shove your head into the


    toilet!"


    While speaking, Holly directly used brute force to grab onto Ranita''s clothes.


    "Ranita!" Olivia eximed, but she was immediately restrained by the bodyguard and couldn''t help.


    Meanwhile, Ranita''s first reaction was to struggle when her clothes were forcefully grabbed.


    "Holly, let go!" Ranita said, and another bodyguard immediately came over to restrain her.


    "Hold her down!" Holly looked proud, this time she was prepared. Let''s see how Ranita resisted this


    time!


    Probably the noise here had rmed people on other floors, and suddenly some onlookers came to


    the door. Seeing that the situation was getting out of control, they couldn''t bear to intervene and


    said, "Everyone, please talk it out calmly and don''t resort to violence!"


    "Ha ha! She''s a mistress who interfered in someone else''s rtionship. How can you have the


    nerve to speak up for her?" After speaking, Hollyughed and went to the door to bring in a small


    bucket. With a ssh, she poured it all over Ranita!

 Chapter 101 A Bucket Of Ice Water

    Chapter 101 A Bucket Of Ice Water


    Chapter 101 A Bucket of Ice Water


    Cold!


    Not only was it cold, but it also hurt!


    It was a bucket of ice water.


    The sound of water sshing mixed with the sound of ice hitting the ground. The onlookers all


    gasped in shock! Oh my god! This was too cruel!


    Ranita, who had it worst, was soaked from head to toe. Her lips were even paler than before due to


    the cold and pain, and her body trembled slightly.


    "Ranita!" Olivia immediately broke free from being held back and rummaged through a nket as


    she draped it over Ranita. "Are you okay, Ranita?"


    "Miss Stuart, you went too far..."


    "I went too far? Why don''t you ask these people whether or not a mistress who meddles in other


    people''s rtionships deserves to be doused with ice water?" Holly looked at the onlookers with


    great momentum. She didn''t look like she was lying at all; their gazes towards Ranita had changed.


    Especially some women who began to criticize, "You men only care about looks and are always


    talking about how beautiful this woman upstairs is... she''s just a mistress without any shame."


    "Some people may seem high and mighty but who knows how many men they''ve been involved


    with behind their backs!"


    "Don''t look anymore; this is someone else''s private matter. Let''s go!"


    ...


    Although that was what they said, they didn''t really leave; they were still gossiping while waiting for


    what would happen next.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Ranita wiped her face with the nket then nced around at everyone coldly before turning


    towards Olivia saying, "Call the police."


    "Ranita, how dare you!" Holly shouted angrily.


    The surrounding crowd started pointing fingers as well, "Oh my god! How can she still have the


    nerve to call the police?"


    "If you''re going to meddle in other people''s rtionships, then you should know what consequences


    come along with that thick skin!"


    ...


    Olivia couldn''t take it anymore so she stormed out shouting, "What are all of you saying?! You''re


    just gossiping without knowing anything! All of you need to disperse right now!"


    "If none of you leave soon I''ll use this broomstick!"


    Olivia usually kept quiet but now she really lost her temper! She picked up a broomstick regardless


    of anyone outside and chased them away one by one before finally closing the door shut.


    "You have quite an obedient dog there." Holly lightly yed around by tapping her fingernails


    together. "Ranita, I advise against calling the police if I were you! You might not be afraid but


    Olivia... I can deal with her easily enough!"


    "Don''t threaten me like that! We live in a society governed byw now!" Even though Olivia knew


    better than confronting Holly directly since she could distinguish right from wrong clearly unlike Mia


    or Carl when faced against Ranita.


    "Olivia, you''re too naive!" Hollyughed. "Do you know what they say? Money talks and bullshit


    walks."


    "You..." Olivia wanted to argue, but Ranita quickly interrupted her. It was better not to offend Holly


    too much.


    "Olivia, just stop," Ranita said firmly.


    "But she''s bullying you..." Olivia''s eyes were red with anger.


    "I''m fine," Ranita shook her head at Olivia and gestured for her to calm down. "You should go back


    to the office and pack your things."


    Olivia didn''t want to leave. Both of them might not be able to handle Holly alone! But Ranita pushed


    her away. "Go now!"


    As soon as Olivia left, Ranita raised her hand and pped Holly hard across the face. The sound


    echoed in the room as a bright red mark appeared on Holly''s cheek.


    The p stunned not only Holly but even the bodyguards who were standing nearby.

 Chapter 102 Losing Out

    Chapter 102 Losing Out


    Chapter 102 Losing Out


    "Ahh! How dare you hit me, Ranita!" After a moment of eerie silence, Holly screamed like a pig


    being ughtered in rage.


    Holding onto her throbbing cheek with both hands, she red at Ranita with bloodshot eyes while


    looking disheveled and terrifyingly twisted in appearance.


    "Do you think it''s okay for you to mess with me?" With cold eyes fixed on Holly''s face, Ranita


    continued speaking, "You poured water all over me which damaged my reputation. I pped your


    face once so I still lost out here."


    "Ranita! You''re dead meat!" Grinding her teeth together tightly while pointing at two bodyguards


    beside her, Holly saidmandingly, "Grab this woman for me and throw her into toilet bowl right


    now!"


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    The two guards hesitated for a moment before walking towards Rantia without daring to disobey


    their boss'' orders.


    "I advise againsting any closer if I were you guys," warned Rantia calmly as she looked directly


    into their eyes before turning back towards Holly again, "Holly, if this matter gets blown up big time


    then it won''t be good news just for me."


    "After all," Rantia added coldly while staring straight into Holly''s eyes again, "I don''t have your family


    background or connections in Kurima; if this incident goes public then everyone willugh at you


    discussing about how foolish you are."


    "And of course," Rantia continued speaking slowly yet confidently while raising an eyebrow slightly


    higher than usual, "If that doesn''t satisfy your ego enough, then we can always go visit our local


    police station where I''ll admit my mistake by payingpensation money or whatever penalty is


    required byw... but are you willing enough to apologize publicly right there?"


    Ranita''s words struck Holly. However, she still retorted, "Haha! I''ll smash the surveince cameras


    later! Who needs to apologize to you? Come on, try it!"


    Just then, there was a knocking on the door from outside, and a voice said, "We are from the local


    police station. Please open the door."


    Ranita raised an eyebrow and said, "Sorry, folks, the police have arrived!"


    The police arrived, and Holly had to hold back her anger! The ce was a mess, but at least no one


    got hurt. A ssh of water and a p in the face settled things.


    This dy caused them to miss lunchtime.


    Olivia took Ranita home and made some food before parting ways. Ranita reminded her, "Don''t go


    back to the studio for the next few days. Pack up your things and work from home. Call me if you


    need anything."


    "Okay..." Olivia nodded but couldn''t help asking, "Ranita, that studio is your pride and joy. Are you


    really just going to give it up like this?"


    Ranita didn''t want to let it go either, but with Holly stirring up trouble like this, there was no way the


    studio could operate smoothly anymore. It was better to start over from scratch.


    "It''s just something we have to do! Don''t worry about it!" After seeing Olivia off, Ranita contacted


    Marlon and hired him as an agent to help with dissolving their partnership.


    After dealing with that matter, Ranita drove straight to the hospital to see Steve.


    "I thought you wouldn''te so soon!" Steve had scheduled his day off today but made ns with


    Ranita beforehand so he came in the afternoon instead. "Are you feeling better today? You look a


    little pale."


    Could she feel better after getting drenched by Holly''s bucket of ice water? Luckily it was warmer


    now; otherwise she would''ve caught a cold!


    "Achoo!" Just as she wanted to shake her head no, she sneezed instead; her nose felt itchy too.


    "I''m okay! Just tired I guess... Maybe I didn''t sleep wellst night." She smiled at Steve while her


    eyes curved into crescents along with sparkling pupils - lively and brightening everything around


    them.


    Steve''s heart skipped a beat or two due such beauty radiating from within her eyes...


    "As long as you''re okay." Steve turned his head slightly while speaking softly, "Being pregnant can


    make one feel exhausted easily; eat more nutritious food and rest early when possible... Don''t


    overwork yourself either."


    "Oh yeah..." Pausing for a moment, he handed over some papers, "I drew your blood yesterday for


    testing purposes. Here are the results. It shows trace amounts of banned stimnts which won''t


    affect your body once metabolizedpletely."

 Chapter 103 Force Out

    Chapter 103 Force Out


    Chapter 103 Force Out


    Thank goodness! Thank goodness!


    Ranita feared those addictive substances whose consequences were unimaginable...


    "Thank you Dr. Pearson!" She breathed out in relief while expressing gratitude towards him, "And


    thank you again foringst night."


    "Don''t mention it!" He paused briefly before asking intelligently, "Did something happen at


    Bouldend Mansion? Do you need my help?"


    Ranita rubbed her belly and shook her head. "Thank you, Dr. Pearson! I''ve made up my mind, I


    might leave Kurima in a while."


    Leave Kurima?! Steve was taken aback for a moment but quickly realized that afterst night''s


    wee party, everyone in the elite circle should know about Brendon and Shannon''s situation.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    If Ranita stayed in Kurima, it could lead to more trouble! Besides, she had a baby in her belly.


    "Where are you nning to go?"


    "I''m probably going to Greece. I''m interested in their culture and history and n on visiting there to


    gain some knowledge." Ranita had earned enough money over the years plus she had child support


    paymentsing so she could livefortably without working for several decades.


    But even though she said it was just for fun, Ranita actually nned on studying Greek while there.


    "But it''ll probably take some time. I still have some time left at Stuart''s Corp plus other preparations


    so the earliest would be three months from now."


    By then her belly would be hard to hide.


    But she already nned ahead; once leaving Stuart''s Corp., she would rest at home for a while


    before possibly returning to Stnd then heading directly to Greece from there.


    "I might need your help during this time," Ranita said gratefully as everything with herself and the


    baby were fine now. When she got home, Steve also gave her an extra jar of lemon candy which


    lifted her spirits even more.


    Ranita didn''t go back into work or visit Stuart''s Corp but instead rested at home for two days. During


    that time Marlon prepared all necessary documents before finding Holly and proposing they


    dissolve their partnership together.


    Forcing Ranita out directly like this meant TranteAble Studio lost its reputation; Holly couldn''t


    have been happier! She acted like a victorious rooster who won her battle then told Marlon to tell


    Ranita leave Kurima soon or else face consequences.


    Marlon was quick-witted enough with his words that he made even Ranitaugh along with him.


    TranteAble Studio used to be quite famous within trantion circles but now that it had fallen


    apart many old acquaintances were concerned about them; most of them received replies from


    Ranita when they contacted her.


    Later on when things calmed down slightly, her professor called, "Ranita, since your studio is no


    longer functioning, why not consider working at the Department of Trantion and Interpretation?


    We''re short-staffed!"


    Actually, saying that there was a shortage of people was not urate. The trantion department


    belonged to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and there were plenty of trantors who wanted to join,


    but their standards were high and they required a lot of ability, so they alwayscked manpower.


    People like Ranita, who were good-looking and capable, were the most sought after!


    "Professor..." Ranita didn''t expect the professor to be so persistent. He brought up this matter every


    time they talked and she didn''t know how to refuse anymore.


    "Hahaha! Don''t worry about it! I just mentioned it. I didn''t really think you would go! Everyone has


    their own aspirations. If you don''t want to go then forget about it!" After pausing for a moment, the


    professor continued, "If you don''t want to work at the trantion department, you cane back to


    school. Our school is recruiting in autumn and with your abilities why not be a teacher? The


    sry is good and it''s also rxing."

 Chapter 104 A Potential Marriage Partner

    Chapter 104 A Potential Marriage Partner


    Chapter 104 A Potential Marriage Partner


    "Do you remember Vincent Ramos from before? He''s back at school now!"


    When Vincent was mentioned, Ranita had some impression of him as he was two years ahead of


    her in college and also one of Kurima Foreign Studies University''s talented students!


    "Wasn''t he working at the trantion department before? Why did hee back?"


    "He was too busy! Now being back at school is great for him; he even has time to help with projects


    which is fantastic! Have you thought about seriously considering this option? Besides, these years


    have been quite exhausting on your own. I think Vincent is pretty good. How about I introduce you


    two to get to know each other?"


    How did he transition from talking about work to introducing potential partners? Not many people


    knew that Ranita was married yet she hadn''t told her professor either.


    "Professor..."


    "Just tell me if you''re single now or not?! It''s been several years since graduation; isn''t it time for


    love?" The professor said with concern, "You''re not busy with your studio right now so take


    advantage while having free time by finding someone!"


    Ranita couldn''t resist her Professor''s enthusiasm.


    Ranita could only make excuses saying she needed some time off in Greece before ending their


    conversation.


    After chatting for half an hour on call, Ranita saw Caleb had sent several emails.


    Before she could read them all, Brendon called, "Ranita, get ready. We''ll go to the auction house


    togetherter tonight."


    She realized that these past two days, she hadn''t contacted Brendon once.


    "What happened?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t tell me you forgot we have an auction tonight?" Brendon reminded her, and only then did


    Ranita remember there indeed was such an event happening tonight.


    In fact, the auction house often held auctions, but they were usually small-scale ones where prices


    ranged from tens-of-thousands-to-hundreds-of-thousands dors. The collections were average,


    and mostly auctioned by small wealthy merchants.


    Tonight''s auction was a biannual event, with priceless items up for bidding and wealthy guests in


    attendance. As the host, Brendon had to make sure everything was prepared.


    Ranita''s position may not have been important, but it was still necessary for her to be present at the


    event. She quickly got ready, putting on makeup and choosing her outfit and shoes before leaving in


    just half an hour.


    This particr auction was quite grand, with a celebration party nned after it ended. Ranita


    chose a vintage dress with a square neckline that revealed some skin on her back. Paired with


    three-inch heels, she looked stunning despite the revealing cut of the dress.


    After greeting one wealthy businessman from Paityn Sutton (a city), Brendon turned around and


    saw Ranita in her blue velvet dress thatplemented her fairplexion perfectly. Her corbone


    was delicate while her neck was slender; even the few inches of ankle peeking out from under the


    hem were like white jade.


    She also wore a diamond bracelet on one wrist which added to her radiance as she stood under the


    light like a glowing gemstone.


    "Come here!" Brendon beckoned Ranita over as his gaze lingered on her figure before settling on


    her waistline where he seemed lost in thought for a moment or two before his eyes darkened


    slightly.


    "Mr. Stuart!" Ranita politely stood beside him but noticed he continued staring at her intensely; his


    gaze felt like mes burning through every inch of skin exposed by the dress.


    "Do I have something on me?" Ranita asked him discreetly while gritting teeth slightly.


    Brendon''s mood suddenly lifted inexplicably as he nced sideways at Ranita, "Your dress is very


    unique."


    And so are you...

 Chapter 105 Wearing The Same Dress

    Chapter 105 Wearing The Same Dress


    Chapter 105 Wearing The Same Dress


    What nonsense this guy spouted!


    "Thank you," replied Ranita coolly while catching sight of Shannon approaching wearing an identical


    dress! She couldn''t believe it ¨C they were both wearing exactly same thing!


    The only difference being that due to work requirements she had altered hers slightly whereas


    Shannon''s appeared original - long trailing hem swaying gracefully when walking, making it look like


    blue butterfly wings fluttering about gracefully behind its wearer.


    Shannon also had fair skin and wore sparkling diamond ne around neck, making herself look


    even more morous than ever before!


    "Brendon!" Shannon nced at Ranita and immediately sweetly linked arms with Brendon, half-


    leaning against him. She then greeted Ranita, "Hey Ranita! What a coincidence! I didn''t expect us


    to have the same idea today!"


    Ranita nodded her head but didn''t respond.


    Brendon was the center of attention, especially with Ranita matching Shannon''s outfit. Many


    people''s eyes were drawn to them. However, more people were focused on Ranita; she looked


    stunning in her blue velvet dress butpared to Shannon next to her, it seemed like she was


    wearing a knockoff version.


    It made people think less of her for wearing such an important event in a fake dress.


    "Brendon, who do you think looks better in this dress? Me or Ranita?" Shannon pouted and paused


    before continuing yfully, "My aunt told me that there are only two dresses like this one back home


    - one that she bought for me and another one that is rumored to be in Stnd."


    The implication was clear: Ranita''s dress was fake.


    Brendon frowned and changed the subject, "Let''s go inside now! If there''s anything you want me to


    buyter on, just write it down."


    Although she didn''t get the answer she wanted, just hearing Brendon say those words would make


    anyone jealous including Ranita.


    Ranita didn''t dwell on it too much as she saw Chris arrive; so she found an excuse to follow him into


    the bathroom, "Mr. Webster!"


    "Ranita!"


    "There is something I want you to help me with." She handed Chris tonight''s auction list, "Can you


    bid on item number twelve for me? I''ll transfer money over once we''re done."


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


    Item number twelve was a 500, 000 dor sapphire ne.


    Chris agreed without asking any questions, "No problem!" He paused before adding, "You look


    beautiful tonight!"


    "Thank you..." Before she finished what she had nned on saying earlier, Holly interrupted them


    rudely, "Chris... that dress looks like a knockoff brand; don''t be fooled by her."


    Holly wore a pink skirt with special bubble sleeves design; its hem narrowed down like petals of


    flower whichplimented her youthful energy well, but unfortunately not so much when opening


    up her mouth unnecessarily rudements about others'' clothing choices.


    "Holly, how do you know if this is fake or not? Don''tment if you don''t know what you''re talking


    about." Chris thought Holly''s behaviorcked manners. Even though he only said something


    normal, Holly heard his words differently: as if he were defending and pitying Rantia at the same


    time which made Holly extremely jealous inside.


    "Chris, didn''t you hear what Shannon said earlier? There are only two of these high-end dresses,


    one on Shannon and the other in Stnd! Shannon wouldn''t wear a fake, so it must be Ranita''s


    dress that''s fake!"


    Holly analyzed the situation and it seemed to make sense.


    Chris furrowed his brows. "But how do you know that the dress in Stnd isn''t the one Ranita''s


    wearing?"


    That was impossible! Holly almost scoffed at the idea. She heard that a wealthy youngdy had


    already ordered the dress from Stnd. What did it have to do with Ranita?

 Chapter 106 Auction

    Chapter 106 Auction


    Chapter 106 Auction


    "Chris... you''re really going to help Ranita, aren''t you?" Holly was about to cry from frustration. She


    wanted to confront Ranita but Chris was there and she didn''t want to cause a scene.


    Holly could only re at Ranita before leaving in annoyance.


    "She''s just spoiled; don''t mind her," Chrisforted Ranita who smiled and asked him why he


    trusted her so much despite not knowing if her dress was real or not.


    "I guess it''s because you''re beautiful," Chris joked for once.


    Ranita giggled. "This dress was sent over from Stnd; I just happened upon it."


    "Thank you for speaking up for me earlier! I have work to attend now."


    As she spoke, she noticed Brendon looking at her five times already with an icy stare that nearly


    froze her alive.


    Ranita had no choice but to return to her work station.


    "Mr. Stuart, I''m sorry," she said.


    "I thought you were going to the restroom? Did I just find out your restroom is with Chris?" Brendon


    hadn''t noticed, but now he was not only sarcastic but also filled with bitterness.


    "Mr. Stuart, you really have a great sense of humor," Ranita replied quietly. She looked up and


    realized that Brendon had leaned in very close to her while speaking, to the point that their faces


    were almost touching. No wonder she felt his warmth!


    Ranita subtly moved away a bit, and Brendon''s gaze turned even colder. "Do you think I''m joking


    with you?"


    This woman had no shame; flirting with one of his friends then moving onto another... how could


    someone be so shameless?


    Brendon felt like he had been pumped full of air until he might burst.


    Ranitia remained silent.


    "Brendon, what were you talking about with Miss Bowman?" Suddenly leaning over from his seat


    next door came Shannon who asked curiously while peering over towards them both. "Could you


    tell me too?"


    Ranitia smiled faintly before answering, "Miss Murphy, you can ask Mr. Stuart."


    Shannon turned towards Brendon who handed over their list coldly without saying anything else,


    "Nothing important. Was there anything on here that caught your eye?"


    "How about this one?" Shannon pointed to one of the auction items and asked Brendon.


    Brendon casually nced at it and nodded, "It''s okay."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita caught a glimpse of it out of the corner of her eye and realized that the auction item Shannon


    was pointing to was the sapphire ne she wanted to bid on.


    What a coincidence! If Shannon wanted it, Brendon would probably help her win it. Ranita knew she


    couldn''tpete with him in terms of money, so she felt a bit anxious.


    She was just about to tell Chris when he showed up and sat down on her right side. "Brendon,


    Shannon!" Chris nodded in greeting and handed Ranita a bottle of water.


    It was already open.


    Ranita smiled gratefully at Chris and whispered softly, "Thank you!"


    "You''re wee!" Chris smiled back.


    Brendon saw this scene clearly; his eyes were dark as he looked at Ranita without much expression


    but with some coldness passing over his face.


    Ranita shivered under his gaze; she didn''t know what she had done wrong to offend him.


    The auction officially began. The attendees were all wealthy people who bid against each other for


    items they liked, creating an exciting atmosphere!


    Of course, if there were any less popr items that weren''t being bid on by anyone else, there


    would be insiders from the auction house who would make bids themselves - these were all insider


    secrets that outsiders wouldn''t know about.


    Soon enough they reached item number twelve. As soon as the host announced bidding had begun


    for this item, people started making offers one after another until only two people remained:


    Brendon and Chris. The two men locked eyes across the room; sparks flew between them instantly.

 Chapter 107 Sapphire Necklace

    Chapter 107 Sapphire Ne


    Chapter 107 Sapphire Ne


    "Mr. Webster..." Ranita leaned closer towards Chris, "why don''t we stop bidding... this is too


    expensive! The starting price is 500, 000 dors but now it has already gone past 1 million dors!"


    Auction prices rising slightly was normal but mainly because Ranita saw how determined Brendon


    seemed to win this particr item - she didn''t want to waste money fighting over something


    unnecessarily!


    "Are you sure you don''t want me to keep bidding?" asked Chris leaning towards her - from certain


    angles they almost seemed like they could be whispering sweet nothings into each other''s ears -


    very intimate yet full of warmth!


    Holly sitting on their opposite side gritted her teeth in frustration wishing desperately that she could


    just walk up there herself and pull them apart, but she instead found herself being held back by


    Shannon who whispered lowly "Holly don''t do anything rash!"


    "Shannon! I can''t take it anymore!" Holly''s heart felt like exploding with anger inside her chest.


    "Calm down! Your brother is still here!" Shannon was happy to see Ranita getting closer to another


    man, which pushed Brendon further away.


    "I overheard Ranita saying she wanted this ne earlier..."


    "Really? Don''t let her have it, Shannon!" Holly was immediately fired up.


    Shannon smiled. "When I buy it, I''ll give it to you."


    Holly was even more satisfied now. She would definitely wear the ne in front of Ranita and


    make her jealous!


    But Ranita didn''t think too much about it. She frowned at Brendon as he bid again and then turned


    to Chris. "Let''s not bid anymore."


    She had nned on buying the ne as a gift for someone else, but if she couldn''t get it, she


    could choose something else.


    "No need topete with Brendon."


    Chris said candidly, "If you really like it and are under financial pressure, I can pay for it first and you


    can pay me backter."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "My bottom line is 1. 5 million. If the price goes over that amount, forget about bidding," said Ranita.


    "I''ve seen the catalog before; this sapphire is of good quality. I think we can get it within 2 million.


    Are you nning on giving this as a gift?" Chris asked again.


    Ranita had participated inrge auctions before but never bought anything herself.


    "Well... it''s for an older rtive." She smiled without saying too much; Chris also wisely refrained


    from asking more questions and suggested, "This would be perfect for an older female rtive!


    Since we''re already bidding anyway, let''s add another 500k and make the final price 2 million. If it


    goes over that amount then we won''t bid anymore."


    Ranita had been eyeing this ne since seeing its listing in the catalog beforehand-not because


    there weren''t other gifts avable but because she didn''t know what else to buy-and now having


    found a suitable sapphire ne made things easier for her decision-making process.


    "Okay! Thank you so much." Ranita whispered into Chris'' ear with bright eyes and a smile on her


    lips-she seemed very happy indeed!


    Brendon had been ncing at them several times throughout their conversation; when they


    reached a price of 1. 5 million, his eyes darkened as he suddenly grabbed onto Ranita''s arm tightly


    while pulling her away from Chris towards himself...


    "Mr Stuart? Is something wrong?" Thinking that Brendon might have some urgent matter at hand or


    needed help with something important, Ranita pulled back slightly, but saw his handsome face turn


    serious and cold as he slowly approached her...


    His erged face collided with hers...


    Breathing became closer, and the cold winter breath of the fir trees wrapped around them. The


    delicate light shone on his sharp jawline, and Ranita''s heart seemed to brighten up with it.

 Chapter 108 Avoiding It

    Chapter 108 Avoiding It


    Chapter 108 Avoiding It


    Some people can easily touch your heartstrings without doing anything at all.


    Ranita lowered her eyelids, feeling a tingling sensation in the back of her head. "Mr. Stuart?"


    "What did you say to Chris?" Brendon''s question caught Ranita off guard. He rarely asked such


    questions before or even cared about who she talked to.


    "Is there a problem, Mr. Stuart?" Ranita tried to brush it off, but Brendon pressed on with another


    question, "Can''t you tell me?"


    Ranita was speechless.


    "It''s not easy to exin." She casually replied and was about to create some distance between


    them when someone suddenly bumped into her from behind. She instinctively dodged but


    identally hit her forehead against Brendon''s head.


    It was just a light bump, but like a chain reaction in chemistry experiments, both of them quickly


    stepped back due to the heat generated by their contact.


    "Be careful!" Chris promptly held onto Ranita''s shoulder. "Don''t fall!"


    Ranita smiled at Chris gratefully but felt as if she had lost all energy suddenly; everything seemed


    barren now that Brendon didn''t like her after all.


    Next door Shannon lightly grabbed onto Brendon''s arm, "Are you okay?"


    Brendon looked at Ranita heavily for a moment; his cheeks began hurting suddenly - damn this


    woman! Did she hate him so much that she avoided him even when they touched?


    He was angry!


    "I''m fine," he responded indifferently and withdrew his gaze from Ranita before turning towards


    Shannon again.


    "If you like this ne," he said while pointing towards the blue sapphire ne on disy


    earlier, "I''ll buy it for you."


    "Thank you so much, Brendon!" Shannon sweetly replied while sneakily ncing over at Ranita out


    of the corner of her eye - challenging expression ying across her lips.


    Ranitia was also very angry!


    "Mr. Webster," she said firmly while staring directly into his eyes, "buy me that ne no matter


    how much it costs!"


    From then on, Brendon and Chris started bidding crazily for the twelfth blue sapphire ne.


    After surpassing 3 million dors, everyone thought these two were crazy.


    The base price for this blue sapphire ne was indeed affordable, but exceeding 2 million was


    already too high. Now, it had exceeded 3. 8 million dors...


    "Brendon, can you give me this ne?" Chris said, even though he didn''t need the money. He


    was helping Ranita with the auction and didn''t want to spend too much on it.


    "Shannon likes this ne, so I''ll buy it for her no matter how much it costs," Brendon replied


    calmly. Chris couldn''t help butugh at Brendon''s stubbornness - he was clearly being petty!


    "What about you, Chris? Who were you nning on buying it for?" With Chris'' mother gone and no


    girlfriend in sight, Brendon guessed that Chris was going to buy it for Ranita.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    But how could he let that happen!?


    The bidding became more intense than ever before.


    When Chris was about to make his final bid, Ranita grabbed his arm and stopped him. In the end,


    Brendon won the auction with a bid of 6. 8 million dors and gave the ne to Shannon.


    "Thank you so much, Brendon!" Shannon epted warm apuse from everyone present before


    boldly kissing him on the cheek!


    The atmosphere reached its peak as everyone cheered loudly.

 Chapter 109 Fake Goods

    Chapter 109 Fake Goods


    Chapter 109 Fake Goods


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Ranita remained quiet throughout all of this - as if none of it mattered to her at all.


    "I''ll keep an eye out for anything else suitable for you," Chris whispered in her ear. It took a moment


    for Ranita to respond, "Oh? Okay..."


    She hadn''t really heard what he said and felt flustered when she responded. Some things were hard


    to let go of or ignorepletely...


    "Do you want some water?" Without exposing her confusion, Chris handed her a bottle of mineral


    water, "Do you want me toe outside with you?"


    "No thanks!" Ranita shook her head at him, "The auction is almost over."


    As the sapphire ne fetched a high price, everyone was eagerly watching the auction. The


    following items also sold for decent prices, and now it was time for the grand finale.


    It was andscape painting.


    Surprisingly, Mrs. Cather ended up winning the bid for it.


    All the wealthy businessmen who came had something to gain, and even those who didn''t gained


    some experience and got to meet new people. As a result, the atmosphere was great.


    Next up was the celebration.


    Ranita led Mrs. Cather and Arthur towards the banquet hall when Mrs. Cather suddenly stopped her


    and said, "Miss Bowman, some people really have no taste. Your dress is definitely authentic."


    There weren''t many of these blue velvet haute couture dresses around, but Mrs. Cather''s eye for


    fashion was sharp enough to see that Ranita''s dress may have been altered at the hemline but it


    was still genuine.


    "Thank you!" Sometimes Mrs. Cather could be rigidly annoying, but in this case she gave Ranita


    support which made her feel more favorable towards her.


    Anna took hold of Mrs. Cather''s arm and sincerelyplimented her saying, "And you look


    absolutely stunning in that blue velvet dress!"


    "I wanted one too at first," replied Anna with augh, "but luckily I didn''t order one or else I would''ve


    been outshone by you."


    "After all there is a saying here that goes ''whoever wears it better wins''," added Anna jokingly.


    Ranita covered her mouth as sheughed before replying, "Thank you so much Mrs. Cather and


    Miss Anna! You are both very charmingdies; there is no need for self-deprecation."


    "The celebration will start soon; please follow me!" Ranita led them into the banquet hall where they


    were immediately approached by someone looking to chat with them.


    Ranita dutifully did what she needed to do while making sure everyone felt wee, but after


    making rounds, she couldn''t help feeling tired.


    And then there were those people who clearly came just to meet with Mrs. Carter yet kept ncing


    over at Ranita in her blue velvet dress.


    Ranita knew why - Shannon and Holly must have spread rumors about how she wore fake goods!


    Sigh...


    "Miss Bowman, nice meeting you!" A woman greeted Mrs. Carter before turning towards Ranita.


    Ranita knew this woman somewhat - Paityn Sutton - the famous businesswoman from Ecrine


    known for being strong-willed, and having a tendency to meddle in other peoples'' affairs. Most


    wealthy individuals tended to keep low profiles especially on social media where false information


    can easily spread. But this woman was different. She was very active on social media and loved


    gossiping. She also had arge following online.


    The problem? She loved meddling!


    Sure enough, Ranita had barely exchanged pleasantries when Paityn asked, "Miss Bowman, is


    your dress real or fake?"

 Chapter 110 The Self-Righteous

    Chapter 110 The Self-Righteous


    Chapter 110 The Self-Righteous


    Ranita''s impression of Paityn was not good because of her rude questioning tone or perhaps her


    ent. She felt like hiding her arrogance but ended up being awkward instead. Ranita could speak


    the dialect of Ecrine but didn''t want to trouble herself with such impolite questions from Paityn.


    "Miss Bowman, I''m straightforward when speaking; I don''t like beating around the bush," said Paityn


    as she used her personality as an excuse for saying something unpleasantly bluntly. "Although this


    blue velvet dress is beautiful, you should wear what suits you best! I heard that you are Mr. Stuart''s


    exclusive trantor; if you wear something inappropriate, won''t it embarrass Mr. Stuart?"


    "Miss Bowman, there''s something I''m not sure if I should say or not..."


    After saying so much, she was still unsure if she should say it or not!?


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


    Ranita smiled and calmly interrupted, "Ms. Sutton, if you''re not sure whether to say it or not, then it''s


    better not to say it at all!"


    "After asking one question, you start rambling on and on. It''s obvious that you think my blue velvet


    haute couture is fake, right?"


    Upon hearing this, Paityn''s face couldn''t hide her embarrassment. Her overfilled cheeks froze, and


    she forced a smile, saying, "Miss Bowman, you truly are straightforward!"


    The sarcasm was deep.


    "I can''tpare to you!" Ranita retorted back.


    It wasn''t that Ranita wanted to argue with her like this - live and let live - but when someone bullied


    her face-to-face like this she wouldn''t stand by idly either.


    "What''s more," continued Ranita, "Are you the designer of this blue velvet dress? How can you be


    so sure mine is fake? What if mine is real? Won''t it make things awkward for yourself?"


    Ranita asked several questions in session which left Paityn speechless.


    Paityn had been in the industry for many years now and considered herself having sharp eyesight


    when judging fashion items'' authenticity. Although Ranita looked good on the outside, ording to


    her status quo, she couldn''t afford or order such a blue velvet dress through proper channels


    anyway!


    Moreover... if one paid attention to fashion circles, they would know there were only two dresses


    avable domestically ¨C one worn by Shannon without any doubt while another rumoured in


    Stnd!


    Overall speaking... the probability of Ranitas'' dress being genuine was zero!


    Paityn confidently spoke up, "Miss Bowman, there''s a 99% chance that this blue velvet dress is a


    fake! While it''s your choice to buy what you want, wearing fake clothing to events like this and even


    running into Miss Murphy will cause great trouble for you!"


    Ranita frowned as she noticed people starting to look at her again and whisper about her.


    "Tsk tsk, is Miss Bowman someone from Mr. Stuart''s side? I never thought she would do something


    so foolish."


    "What''s the big deal? Maybe she just wants to hook a rich man and didn''t expect to run into Miss


    Murphy while wearing the same outfit. She ended up embarrassing herself!"


    "Such a pity! She waspletely outdone by Miss Murphy!"


    "How can someone like her still stay at the celebration? If it were me, I would have been too


    ashamed to show my face!"


    ...


    Ranita never expected that she would coincidentally wear the same dress as Shannon. She had


    owned this blue velvet dress for some time but never thought that wearing it for the first time would


    cause so much trouble!


    "Miss Bowman, if you don''t have any other dresses, I can have one sent over for you," Paityn said


    with a smirk on her face as if looking down on Ranita with self-righteousness.

 Chapter 111 Sending You A Dress

    Chapter 111 Sending You A Dress


    Chapter 111 Sending You A Dress


    "Paityn..." Ranita was about to say something when an unwee voice interrupted her - someone


    whom Ranita least wanted to see.


    "Ranita and Paityn, what are you two talking about?" Shannon came hand in hand with Holly who


    seemed happy after seeing Ranita being harassed by others. Holly had an adorable smile on her


    face, "Paityn, long time no see! I''m curious about what you''re talking about with Ranita. Can you tell


    us?"


    Paityn bluntly replied, "We''re discussing this blue velvet dress."


    "I was just thinking of sending Miss Bowman a new dress so that she won''t be without formal attire."


    Holly giggled while covering her mouth, "You''re right Paityn! Ranita, if you don''t have anything


    decent enough then I can also send one over but wearing fake clothing like this is really


    shameless!"


    Her words were full of disdain.


    "Holly please don''t say things like that... I think Ranita probably didn''t mean it! After all these types


    of clothes are rare and not everyone knows how distinguish them from fakes. She must''ve been


    fooled by someone." Shannon spoke softly but sounded more like mocking than defending Ranita''s


    lack of fashion sense.


    "Ranita, you''ve been working with Brendon for years, and even if you don''t want to take credit, you


    deserve it. If we''re going to give a gift dress, it should definitely be from me. Don''t bother Paityn!"


    Shannon paused and pulled out her phone.


    "Actually, I have a brand new dress in the trunk of my car that was sent to me as a gift. I''ll have


    Cindy bring it up for you to wear instead."


    If Ranita actually changed into the new dress, wouldn''t that mean she acknowledged that her blue


    velvet skirt was fake?


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


    Paityn chimed in with excitement, "Miss Bowman, you''re so lucky! Thank Miss Murphy for being so


    kind!"


    "Miss Murphy is truly beautiful and kind-hearted! I really like her!"


    Ranita was speechless.


    These people were too annoying! Not only did they assume things about her but also forced her to


    change out of something she wore willingly or unwillingly.


    "Ranita, thank Shannon," Holly raised an eyebrow at Ranita smugly. "Remember this favor because


    not everyone is as kind-hearted as Shannon."


    Ranita calmly responded, "Are all three of you done talking? Well then let me say this directly - I


    won''t change my skirt! Excuse me now; I have other things to attend to."


    Seeing that Ranita didn''t appreciate their gesture, Paityn immediately turned hostile, "Miss


    Bowman, you really don''t know how good people are!"


    After saying this, Paityn suggested towards Shannon, "Miss Murphy, let''s not bother with such


    people anymore since they don''t even feel embarrassed themselves."


    "You three are indeed meddling too much," said Ranita without wasting any more words before


    walking away while holding onto the skirt.


    Recently having lost appetite due to stress, she ordered a ss of lemon water hoping for some


    peace, but realized Holly had been following her around throughout the celebration party!


    Holly had always been unpredictable and could cause trouble anytime, which made Ranita anxious


    about getting into conflict with Holly.


    So without stopping anywhere else, she went straight back Mrs. Cather''s side.


    Shannon''sbination with Brendon made them stand out among others at the celebration party


    which attracted many admirers sending them best wishes. And Brendon seemed content epting


    all thosepliments quietly without any objections from his side.


    Not wanting to dwell on these thoughts anymore; hearing all those noisy voices around made


    Ranita''s red lips purse involuntarily, making her heart restless beyond measure.

 Chapter 112 Playing Tricks On People

    Chapter 112 ying Tricks On People


    Chapter 112 ying Tricks On People


    Ranita didn''t want to cause any trouble, so she diligently apanied the guests throughout the


    evening. When the celebration finally ended, she even thoughtfully escorted them to their cars.


    Finally, she could go home and rest!


    Ranita was quite happy. With the conclusion of the auction project, her workload at Stuart''s Corp


    had decreased. Less work meant she wouldn''t have to make constant trips to Stuart''s Corp.


    "Phew!" Ranita breathed a sigh of relief, but then suddenly noticed Holly staring at her from not too


    far away.


    Ranita tried to avoid her, but Holly reached out and stopped her.


    "Ranita!"


    "What is it, Miss Stuart?" Ranita wasn''t afraid of confrontation, but she was scared of someone as


    crazy as Holly! She kept her distance and watched Holly warily.


    "Why are you so afraid? I''m not going to eat you," said Holly with a lightugh. "You really have


    thick skin, Ranita. You''re wearing fake clothes! Do you know how those richdies make fun of


    you?"


    "I don''t want to know! Miss Stuart, you don''t need to waste your breath telling me either. I don''t have


    time for this," said Ranita as she paused briefly before walking away without looking back.


    "Stop!" Being ignored made Holly angry in an instant. She stepped forward and blocked Ranita''s


    path again. "Today you followed Mrs. Cather like a coward all day long so I couldn''t find an


    opportunity to deal with you myself. But do you think your luck will always be this good?"


    "I forbid you from bothering my brother! Are you trying to seduce Chris? What kind of delusion are


    you living in? Do you think Chris would ever look twice at a second-hand pair of shoes like


    yourself?"


    When mentioning Chris, Holly became even more excited; gritting her teeth as if wanting nothing


    more than tearing Ranita apart alive while speaking sharply, "I warn you that if you dare try anything


    with my brother again like some fox spirit then see how I''ll deal with it."


    While it was clear where things stood between Brendon and herself, Ranitia had no idea what made


    them think there was something going on between herself and Chris; they were just making


    baseless usations against her!


    "Holly, you know what they say about people who are dirty-minded - everything looks dirty in their


    eyes. I ampletely innocent when ites Mr. Webster. So please stop spreading rumors." It


    annoyed Rantia greatly that Hollly kept pestering her.


    "And also, Miss Stuart, I am getting tired of your constant warnings. Please leave me alone."


    Holly couldn''t handle being provoked any longer. She looked like an enraged lion ready pounce.


    Rantia nced behind Holley calling out, "Mr. Webster!" Was Chris here?


    Holly widened her eyes visibly panicked before turning around. Her face turned red when she


    realized there wasn''t anyone behind them after all...


    Holly was stunned for a moment before realizing she had been yed. She gritted her teeth in


    anger and said, "Ranita! How dare you deceive me... I..."


    In just a few moments, Ranita had already taken several steps outside. She didn''t want to use Chris


    to deceive Holly, but she couldn''t help feeling angry.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, as soon as Ranita turned the corner, she ran into Brendon and Shannon walking together.


    Shannon said something that made Brendon smile with amusement - he looked like a shining star.


    Ranita wanted to avoid them but Shannon spotted her and rushed over like a butterfly catching hold


    of her skirt hem. "Ranita! You haven''t gone back yet? That''s great! Brendon and I are nning to


    have a drinkter. Do you want toe along?"


    Before Ranita could answer, Brendon spoke up first, "She shouldn''t go; it''s inconvenient in that


    dress."


    Suddenly, it felt like something stabbed at Ranita''s heart.

 Chapter 113 So Innocent

    Chapter 113 So Innocent


    Chapter 113 So Innocent


    Other people''s opinions didn''t matter much to Ranita except for Brendon''s.


    She pursed her lips and concealed the bitterness in her heart.


    "Brendon, don''t say that! It wasn''t intentional on Ranita''s part... she might not know about these


    things..." Shannon was thrilled inside but maintained an innocent expression on her face, "Ranita


    must be feeling bad right now; let''s not bring this up again!"


    Brendon furrowed his brows slightly; he felt annoyed listening to Shannon''s words. He never


    med or held anything against Ranita - he even thought of helping out several times but always


    missed the chance.


    He didn''t want to invite Ranita to join them because of that dress; he just didn''t want people pointing


    fingers at him when they saw him standing next to Shannon and her.


    "Ranita, you should go back first!"


    With professional politeness, Ranita simply nodded, "Mr. Stuart, I''ll take my leave now."


    No emotions were shown during their farewell exchange.


    As soon as she stepped out of the door, Ranita saw Holly staring at her with coldughter.


    It seemed like fate brought them together again...


    "You dared deceive me earlier, Ranita?" Holly walked towards her with raised chin and an air of


    superiority.


    Ranita looked past Holly towards someone behind her and said calmly, "Maybe you should look


    behind you."


    "Ranita, don''t lie to me! Do you think I still believe your words?!" Most of the guests had left, leaving


    only one or two staff members in the corner cleaning up. They were all trained and wouldn''t talk


    nonsense outside, so Holly was unrestrained.


    "Miss Stuart, I am really innocent!" Ranita shrugged her shoulders. There was nothing she could do


    if she didn''t believe her.


    "Hehe! Stop talking nonsense. You enjoyed teasing me just now! I''ll make you regret it soon!" Holly


    rushed towards Ranita after speaking and even raised her hand as if she was going to hit her.


    Of course, Ranita wouldn''t stand there and let her hit her. However, someone else was faster than


    her and blocked in front of her while grabbing Holly''s raised wrist.


    "Holly, what are you doing?"


    "Chris?... You... why are you here?" Holly widened her eyes as if she had seen a ghost.


    Chris was really behind her?


    Holly''s mind went nk for a moment. When she reactedter on, tears welled up in her eyes as if


    she were the one being bullied instead.


    "Chris... I didn''t do anything to hurt anyone!" Holly exined hesitantly, "I just..."


    Ranita smiled at Holly mischievously and sarcastically asked, "Just killing mosquitoes?"


    The ironic question made Holly''s face turn red directly.


    She stillcked experience; She couldn''t withstand any small setbacks!


    But Chris was here; She dared not act rashly again!


    "Holly, no matter what misunderstanding you have with Ranita, you can never use violence!" Chris


    criticized Holly sternly, "You should also change your temper!"


    "Chris... I didn''t..." Holly denied immediately, "I''m just too angry that I couldn''t control myself¡­


    Chris, I did not mean it!"


    Holly could also be coquettish when showing weakness; It depended on who it was directed


    towards


    Ranita remained silent and listened quietly to how Holly exined herself


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Did Ranita provoke you? Tell me about it. How did she provoke you?!" When this sentence came


    out, Holly froze, and even Ranita wanted to apud him for his quick wit!


    Mr. Webster, you''re so awesome!

 Chapter 114 Insincere Apology

    Chapter 114 Insincere Apology


    Chapter 114 Insincere Apology


    "I-I-I..."Holly stuttered for a long time but couldn''t say anything at all.


    Chris frowned, "Since you can''t figure out what happened then apologize to Rantia."


    How could Holly ept that?!


    Ranita always gave in to Holly, so how could she apologize to her now? Holly''s eyes grew even


    redder as she stared at Ranita in shock. "You want me to apologize to her?"


    "I''m not apologizing to her! She was clearly teasing me just now, and I..."


    Chris furrowed his brow even more. "Holly, your attitude is terrible for someone who did something


    wrong! I''ll talk to Brendon about it..."


    At the mention of Brendon, Holly immediately surrendered. "Chris, please don''t tell my brother!" She


    gritted her teeth and mumbled something unclear while ring at Ranita. "Fine, I''ll apologize!"


    "Holly! Apologize sincerely!" Chris demanded.


    Holly was about ready to explode with anger but was caught by Chris''s words. Her face had already


    been embarrassed enough; now she was being forced into apologizing to Ranita? It felt like a knife


    stabbing directly into her heart.


    "I''m sorry, Ranita. I was too impulsive just now," Holly said insincerely.


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


    Ranita didn''t feel any sincerity from Holly''s apology; she believed that as soon as they were out of


    Chris''s sight, Holly would pounce on her like a wolf.


    But it still felt good!


    Without responding to Holly''s apology, Ranita turned towards Chris and said, "I''m feeling a bit tired.


    I think I''ll go rest."


    "I''ll walk you out since we''re parked in the same lot," Chris offered before following after Ranita into


    the elevator. Once inside he spoke again, "Holly has been spoiled rotten and has a quick temper


    with harsh words sometimes! Don''t let it slide if she ever bullies you ¨C tell me instead so that I can


    help you vent your frustrations."


    "Thank you very much Mr. Webster," replied an appreciative Ranita who knew both Steve and him


    were friends with Brendon but never looked down on or mistreated her because of it.


    "Don''t mention it ¨C after all there are still projects where we need your help." He paused for a


    moment before asking, "Do you need me drive you home or can you drive yourself?"


    "I haven''t had any alcohol tonight so driving myself won''t be an issue," replied Rantia before


    remembering their ns for meeting up over the weekend, "What time should we meet tomorrow?"


    "Today''s been tiring so let''s meet at 4 pm," suggested Chris.


    "Isn''t that toote? How about 2:30 pm?" asked Rantia as they walked towards the elevator doors.


    Suddenly though, Chris reached out and pulled Rantia back slightly while whispering lowly near ear,


    "Be careful!" causing Rantia bump against his shoulder while catching whiff of faint soap scent.


    "Thank you! Lately, I''ve just been feeling restless all the time!" blushed Rantia sheepishly. The fire


    door had a low threshold, but luckily, Chris gave her a helping hand; otherwise, she might have


    tripped.


    "Be careful, the floor here is uneven. You might trip and fall," Chris paused for a moment before


    chuckling lightly. "You might even cry like a baby!"


    "I won''t cry! I''m not a child!" Ranitaughed, her dark eyes sparkling with joy as her fair face lit up.


    Ranita was a simple woman who found happiness in the little things. Chris couldn''t help but think


    that she was both charming and adorable.


    "Hehe... I was just joking with you," Chris didn''t finish his sentence as he noticed Ranita suddenly


    stop walking. He followed her gaze and saw Brendon and Shannon.


    Chris pursed his lips slightly.


    "It''s Brendon and Shannon," Chris let go of Ranita''s hand to greet them.


    "You guys haven''t left yet?"


    Brendon gave Ranita a cold nce before speaking in an icy tone, "Shannon said she wanted to


    have drinks with you guys at the pier aftering back since you didn''t get to chat earlier."

 Chapter 115 Warmth

    Chapter 115 Warmth


    Chapter 115 Warmth


    The pier Brendon mentioned was located in the eastern suburbs - the Royal Pier where almost all of


    their private yachts were docked. The air there was fresh, and the night view was beautiful. It would


    be pleasant to have drinks there with three or four friends while admiring stars and moonlight or


    even taking a dip in the sea at night.


    For wealthy people like them, they always had something going on - just finished one celebration


    party then off they went again for another activity on their yacht.


    "Chris, we just called Steve; he said he''lle over when he''s free! It''s been so long since we''ve


    talked together." Shannon spoke softly with an ethereal voice that no man could refuse easily.


    "Chris, why don''t you go with Ranita? It''ll be more fun if there are more people!" Shannon paused


    for a moment before quickly exining herself to avoid upsetting Brendon, "Brendon, if you think it''s


    inconvenient for Ranita to wear this blue velvet dress out tonight then I have another new dress in


    my car trunk that she can change into."


    She leaned against Brendon while talking as though boneless...


    Chris had heard some gossip about what happened during their celebration party but didn''t react


    too much because from his perspective there wasn''t much difference between what Ranita wore


    compared to what Shannon wore except maybe some minor adjustments made on its hemline


    position which were barely noticeable anyway...


    He also believed that someone like Ranita wouldn''t resort to wearing fake goods just for


    showmanship''s sake...


    "Don''t change, I think Ranita looks great in this dress!" Chris smiled and continued, "Ranita just told


    me she wants to go home and rest, so don''t force her!"


    "Brendon, you go with Shannon first! I''ll be there soon!" Chris pushed Ranita gently and whispered,


    "Let''s go! I''ll walk you out."


    Ranita parked her car a little further away. When she got into the car, Chris reminded her again,


    "Drive slowly and send me a message when you get home."


    Ranita felt the warmth of care from Chris at this moment. Especially now. Her cold heart suddenly


    felt a bit warmer. Yes! There were so many good men in the world; why must it be Brendon?


    "Thank you. I''ll send you a message when I get home." After pausing for a moment, Ranita added


    another sentence, "See you tomorrow."


    "See you tomorrow!" Chris waved to her and even smiled on his stiff face.


    Ranita closed the car window and drove away slowly. At the exit of the parking lot, she saw


    Brendon''s Bentley leaving ahead of her by one step. She pursed her lips as she looked through the


    ss at Brendon sitting in the back seat with Shannon leaning towards him while talking and


    laughing... They were so intimate.


    Ranita clenched the steering wheel tightly as she felt suffocated in her chest again. Sometimes


    Ranita would feel ashamed that although she was Brendon''s wife on paper but lived like an ancient


    concubine.


    "Honk honk!"


    Ranita was lost in thought, and it wasn''t until she heard a honking horn from behind that she


    snapped back to reality and realized the Bentley in front had already left. Her car hadn''t moved,


    blocking the way for the vehicles behind her.


    She quickly stepped on the gas to move forward. At the parking lot exit, she saw the Bentley turning


    right to leave, while she had to make a left turn.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Ring ring!" Just then Ranit''a phone rang.


    "Hello! Good evening Miss Bowman!" The call came from Marlon, who had been entrusted with all


    the studio matters. Additionally, Ranita had asked him to investigate Turner.


    "Good evening, Marlon."


    Marlon didn''t beat around bush either, "Turner lost both hands now; his father secretly sent him


    back home for treatment."


    Ranita pursed lips tightly; bumping into Brendon was nothingpared with losing both hands for


    Turner!

 Chapter 116 Car Accident

    Chapter 116 Car ident


    Chapter 116 Car ident


    Ranita wasn''t a fool.


    If Turner dared to do such a thing at Bouldend Mansion, there was probably someone behind it,


    but whether it was Amiya, Holly, or Shannon remained unknown.


    In short, Turner got away with it because there was no direct evidence.


    "Miss Bowman, you have a blood test report. We can report this to the police!" Marlon said.


    Ranita had thought about it too, but when it came to Bouldend Mansion and Brendon''s reaction,


    not to mention Amiya would definitely suppress the matter.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Of course, the most crucial thing was that Ranita didn''t have any tangible evidence! That blood test


    report couldn''t prove that Turner had forced her to take the medicine. As for Brendon being a


    witness... just thinking about it made Ranita feel suffocated.


    "And Mr. Stuart can be a witness too; we can sue Turner..."


    Ranita sighed and interrupted him, "Marlon, reporting this to the police probably won''t work! Can


    you please continue sending people to watch over Turner for me? Let me know if there is any


    news!"


    If she had been bullied, she would want revenge.


    "Okay, I''ll take care of it on my end!" As a professionalwyer, Marlon preferred that Ranita go


    through legal procedures to protect her rights. The longer this dragged on, the harder it would be.


    "Thank you Marlon; also thank you for helping me negotiate with Holly at TranteAble Studio


    earlier. I''ll treat you out for dinner sometime." Ranita was very grateful towards Marlon; he was very


    capable and managed to settle things with Holly in just two or three days.


    Ranita truly admired him.


    "Miss Bowman, don''t mention it! And Mr. Webster said that you are an important friend of his; if I


    can help then I will help. If you want to thank someone, then thank Mr. Webster!"


    "And Miss Bowman... you''re quite famous in trantion circles as well! Today I helped you out but


    who knows? Maybe someday I''ll need your help too!"


    Ranita smiled, "Thanks again Marlon; if there''s anything else where I can assist, just let me know."


    After ending their conversation, Ranita drove home like usual, but after passing several


    intersections, she finally realized that there had been a car following her all along.


    Ranita felt uneasy inside. She unconsciously increased her speed, but the car behind her kept


    tailing closely. In one turn, the car suddenly elerated and rammed into the back of her car!


    "A bang!"


    The intense vibration caused Ranita to lose grip on the steering wheel, and the car shook before


    hitting arge tree by the road side. Ranita too, flew forward due to pure inertia!


    "Ahhhh!!" She screamed in fear, followed by a series of painful impacts. The car finally stopped


    moving...


    The faint smell of blood filled the air, and a damp sensation spread from Ranita''s forehead to her


    lips. She reached out in a daze and felt a bright red stain...


    "Ranita!" Brendon rushed into the hospital room. "How are you?"


    Ranita''s face and lips were pale, with a bandage on her forehead to stop the bleeding. She wore


    striped hospital clothes, and her ck hair was let down, giving her a shattered look.


    "Brendon!" Ranita''s eyes were moist as she reached out to hug him tightly around his waist when


    he approached.


    Brendon swallowed hard and patted her back while crouching down tofort her. "It''s okay! It''s


    okay!"


    His warm embrace wrapped around her delicate body as she held onto him tightly. Despite being


    separated by clothing, she could feel the vigorous power hidden within his lean waist that gave an


    endless sense of security.


    Just then, another figure rushed in with an exaggerated voice, "Brendon! Is Ranita okay?"


    The warmth dissipated instantly.


    Ranita felt like someone had grabbed hold of her heart again; it hurt so much...

 Chapter 117 Disappointment

    Chapter 117 Disappointment


    Chapter 117 Disappointment


    But she really didn''t want to let go of Brendon this time.


    For once, Ranita tugged at Brendon''s clothes desperately; not wanting to push him away no matter


    what Shannon said or did.


    "How are you, Ranita? How did you end up in a car ident?" Shannon asked as she rushed over,


    but there was a loud thud as her knee hit the edge of the bed.


    Ranita''s head felt like it had been struck hard. She grasped Brendon''s clothing in an attempt to hold


    onto him, but he was quick to support Shannon. "Did you hit it?"


    "I''m sorry Brendon! I didn''t mean it... I was just worried!" Shannon frowned apologetically while


    choking up, "It''s all my fault for being clumsy."


    "My knee hurts¡­can you take a look at it for me?"


    Behaving as if there was no one else present, right in front of Ranita, had tested her patience. Even


    someone with the best manners would find it hard to tolerate. Her expression darkened, and she


    said coldly, "Miss Murphy, since you''re injured why don''t you go find a doctor? What use is there for


    Brenden helping?"


    One sentence was enough for Shannon''s eyes turn red immediately!


    "I just wanted Brenden help me take care¡­" Her voice sounded soft yet hooky with twists and turns


    that made even harsh words sound pitifully helpless sometimes¡­


    "Brendon, I didn''t mean to! It''s all my fault; I''ve upset Ranita again!" Shannon said, living up to her


    entertainment industry background, on the brink of tears, struggling to appear strong and not let


    herself cry.


    Ranita was at a loss for words.


    *Thud!*


    Just then, the hospital room''s door was kicked open, and Dn''s mockingughter rang out,


    "Shannon, I think you should quit ying the cello and be an actress! Honestly, if you don''t win


    the Best Actress Award this year, I''ll be the first to be surprised!"


    Dn''s sarcasm left Shannon momentarily stunned. "Mr. Webster... What do you mean? Are you


    saying I''m acting now? I didn''t act. I was genuinely worried about Ranita and that''s why I got into


    the ident. It really hurt!"


    Shannon bit her lip, her voice trembling and strained as she held Brendon''s hand. "Brendon, it''s all


    my fault; it feels like I''ve made everything worse."


    "Brendon, you stay here and take care of Ranita, and I won''t be in your way anymore," Shannon


    said, choking back tears, swaying as she limped towards the exit.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita watched Brendon, instinctively reaching out and grabbing the hem of his clothing, looking up


    at him with a hopeful gaze.


    Brendon, just this one time, stay with me, please?


    But, the woman was destined to be disappointed.


    "Shannon..." Brendon caught up with Shannon in a few quick steps, gently supporting her and


    frowning. "Be more careful."


    "Brendon, I''m fine! You take care of Ranita; she needs you more!" Shannon pushed Brendon away


    gently with both hands, but her trembling body kept rubbing against him.


    "I''ll take you to see the doctor first ande back to check on herter," Brendon said before


    leading Shannon away.


    As soon as the man''s back disappeared, tears filled Ranita''s eyes.


    "Ranita! What''s wrong? Are you feeling unwell? Please, don''t cry..."


    Ranita suddenly shed tears, frightening Dn.


    "Ranita, Brendon is a bastard! Don''t cry for him!" Dn''s nose was tingling, wishing he could feel


    her sorrow on her behalf.


    Ranita hung her head, trying to suppress her emotions, but it was impossible. There was just too


    much pent-up frustration, so much that there was no room left to contain it in her heart.

 Chapter 118 Full Of Holes

    Chapter 118 Full Of Holes


    Chapter 118 Full of Holes


    "Alright, if you want to cry, go ahead," Dn finally couldn''t bear to watch her anymore and gently


    cradled her head in his arms. "Crying is a good release."


    Ranita didn''t cry for long.


    Sheposed herself and apologized to Dn, "Dn, sorry for embarrassing you."


    "I heard that emotions be fragile after pregnancy, so it''s not your fault! It must be the little one


    wanting to cry!" Dn''s voice was soft like a gentle spring rain, particrly tender and soothing.


    "Thank you!" Ranita smiled with her eyes curved.


    "It''s good to see you smile!" Dn changed the subject. "I recorded the scene of you crying earlier


    and will send it to Eveter."


    Dn proudly raised his phone. "If you want me to keep my mouth shut, then show me what


    sincerity you have!"


    "Dn, don''t be too despicable as a person!" Ranita reached out and quickly snatched his phone


    away from him. She smiled charmingly with her eyes curved. "You also shouldn''t be too proud; look


    at how unhappy you are now!"


    "Let me see what videos did you take?" Ranita spoke in a nasal tone that became gentle and warm


    while she arched her eyebrows smilingly.


    "Give my phone back!" Dn gritted his teeth but was unable to grab it back from Ranita who


    dodged him. Just when they were about to get into a scuffle, they suddenly heard an angry shout


    Ranita stared at Brendon in shock; her heart which had just mended itself shattered again as it


    skipped several beats rapidly.


    "Brendon, why are scaring people so loudly?" As Dn took his phone back from Ranita, he replied


    to Brendon, "Miss Murphy has injured her knee; doesn''t she need hospitalization and care?"


    Brendon''s face turned dark.


    "Please leave my wife''s room immediately!" The man''s eyebrows were cold while staring at Dn


    like sharp swords unsheathed.


    Dn stood in front of Ranita with a smirk on his face, "Your wife? What kind of wife is someone


    who signed divorce papers?"


    "Legally!" Brendon opened the door aggressively gesturing for him both out, "Please!"


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "What can happen if I don''t leave? Let me tell ya something - Don''t bully Ranita because she isn''t


    alone. She still has me as support!"


    "Support? Who do ya think ya are?" Anger surged through Brendon''s forehead causing veins


    popping up all over it, "Get lost!"


    "Brendon," said Dn arrogantly, "Don''t mess around with me here! Do you wanna fight or what...


    bring it on..." He had already taken offense towards Brendon long ago which ignited his temper


    even more now!


    Seeing two grown men about readying themselves forbat made Ranita give an eye signal


    towards Dn saying, "Dn, go first."


    Dn saw the pleading look in Ranita''s eyes and immediately softened, lowering his fists and giving


    Brendon a fierce re. "I won''t fight you for Ranita''s sake," he said.


    A tall shadow loomed over them.


    Brendon grabbed her waist and dragged her to the edge of the bed, his eyes filled with impatience.


    "I told you to stay away from Dn!"


    "Don''t I have the right to make friends?"


    "What kind of friend are you to Dn? A bedmate?" Brendon''s tongue was like a me, full of


    anger. "You''re trying to make me sick with jealousy, aren''t you?"


    Sick? Ranita felt like she had been stabbed in the heart.


    --And what about you? When you were rolling around with Shannon every day in front of me, did it


    ever ur to you that I might be disgusted?


    The words of usation were on her lips but got stuck as she choked back tears.

 Chapter 119 Responsibility

    Chapter 119 Responsibility


    Chapter 119 Responsibility


    Silence spread through the empty hospital room as they breathed heavily together.


    "Brendon, there''s nothing left for us to say. You should go! Shannon is waiting for you!" Ranita


    avoided eye contact and swallowed all her bitterness down into her stomach.


    Ranita''s eye sockets turned red, and her already delicate face appeared even paler at this moment,


    devoid of any color, like a fragile porcin doll that would crumble at the slightest touch. When


    viewed from the side, she seemed even more slender.


    Brendon controlled his emotions and approached Ranita instead. He ced a hand on her shoulder


    while speaking softly, "I''m sorry... for what I said earlier."


    He had just been too angry before...


    "Ranita... don''t be mad." The man lowered his head slightly while speaking coolly but gently this


    time around; he hugged her tightly then rested his head on top of hers while breathing out hot air


    onto it continuously...


    Ranita''s heart couldn''t help but race along with it...


    Ranita gritted her teeth, attempting to push him away, but he held her tighter. His fingers grazed the


    wound on her forehead. "Does it still hurt?" he asked.


    "No," Ranita replied, her eyes lowered, avoiding Brendon''s gaze.


    "The nurse said they stitched up one stitch¡­how can it not hurt?" Brendon frowned worriedly then


    added teasingly, "Girls are supposed to be delicate creatures¡­like Shannon who cries over every


    little bump or bruise."


    Ranitas'' heart turned cold as ice upon hearing those words¡­


    "If Miss Murphy is your concern then why don''t you go take care of her instead?" She didn''t want


    Brendon going anywhere near Shannon anymore¡­but knowing where his true feelingsy made


    things difficult for everyone involved¡­


    "Shannon''s knee isn''t serious¡­I''ve already sent my driver back home with instructions for rest¡­"


    After pausing briefly, he continued, "¡­tonight¡­I''ll stay here by your side¡­"


    "No need! I''ll ask Dn for help!" Ranita refused him.


    Brendon suddenly pinched her slender waist and insisted inexplicably, "Before the legal rtionship


    is terminated, I am still your husband. It is also my duty to apany you during your


    hospitalization."


    Ranita looked at Brendon fixedly and asked, "Are you really going to stay tonight?"


    "Sure!" Brendon nodded.


    "Didn''t you n to go y at the Royal Pier?" Ranita said, but suddenly her forehead was pressed


    down. The man spoke calmly, "You are still my wife now, and you have no other rtives in Kurima.


    If you are hospitalized, I have a responsibility to take care of you."


    Was it just responsibility?


    Ranita looked at Brendon with sore eyes and a runny nose, but surprisingly felt a sense of


    anticipation in her heart. Perhaps this was one of the rare moments for their family of three, and she


    knew she needed to cherish it.


    "Suit yourself," Ranita responded with resignation.


    What kind of rtionship did they have now? If they said they were a couple, they were about to


    divorce. If they said they were not, they still had lingering feelings for each other.


    Four pairs of eyes met, and there was a moment of silence.


    "I''m going to take a shower, do whatever you want," Ranita said awkwardly as she retreated to the


    bathroom. Just as she was about to take off her pants, the door suddenly opened a little, startling


    Ranita. She stumbled and fell onto the sink in a panic, tripping over her own pants.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    "Ranita!" The shadow enveloped her, and Ranita was pulled into Brendon''s arms.


    The embrace was very warm, like the winter sunshine.


    She can discern it carefully, the cold fragrance of cedar was mixed with a sweet scent that belonged


    only to Shannon... Ranita''s heart was numb and her hands and feet were half frozen.


    Constantly, it reminded her that Brendon was no longer hers.


    "You let go." Ranita pushed Brendon away, far from the sweet scent. She breathed a little easier


    and said, "You came in, why didn''t you knock?"


    "I called out to you but you didn''t respond, I thought something had happened to you..." Brendon


    held onto her waist, his gaze sweeping over her delicate corbone, his voice low and hoarse.

 Chapter 120 The Dream Of Growing Old Together

    Chapter 120 The Dream Of Growing Old Together


    Chapter 120 The Dream of Growing Old Together


    "I... am fine... you can go out!" Ranita lowered her eyes and her voice became soft.


    Did he also care about her in his heart?


    Brendon saw her ears turning red and suddenly chuckled softly, "Are you feeling shy?"


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "We have taken a shower together."


    The man''s deep voice was truly pleasant to the ear, and it lured Ranita''s thoughts into a whirlpool of


    memories. In the pattering sound of water, Brendon''s strong arms lifted her by the waist, peeling


    away her shynessyer byyer, leading her into the depths of desire.


    On that day, he went crazy.


    The next day, she saw the news and learned that the previous day was Shannon''s birthday. In the


    group photos, there were both men and women, but Brendon was conspicuously absent.


    Everything left a trace.


    In just the past three years, she had been constantly numbing herself, dreaming of a future where


    she can grow old with him.


    "That''s all in the past..." Ranita trailed off, looking down. Before she could finish her sentence,


    Brendon''s handnded on her stomach and he frowned, saying, "Looks like you''ve got a little belly."


    "Your face has slimmed down quite a bit, but you''ve developed a little belly."


    When her belly was rubbed, Ranita''s heart immediately jumped to her throat. She nervously moved


    Brendon''s hand away and said, "No, you''re mistaken!"


    "I don''t have a belly."


    Ranita looked serious and unhappy, while Brendon chuckled rare, "It''s okay to gain weight. You look


    good with a little extra."


    Ranita red at Brendon and said, "Get out!"


    Ranita kicked Brendon out and locked the door. While she was taking a shower, she suddenly


    remembered that the report was in the drawer. What if Brendon saw it...


    Ranita rushed out of the bathroom and eximed, "Brendon!"


    "Hmm?" Brendon turned around, holding her medical record in his hand. "Why aren''t your clothes


    properly put on?!"


    When he pointed it out, Ranita realized that she had rushed out too quickly, and her blouse''s


    buttons were undone, revealing a significant portion of her soft flesh. She stammered as she spoke,


    feeling extremely embarrassed and flushed.


    "Sorry!" Heat rushed to her face and ears, and she fumbled to button up her clothes. But Brendon


    was faster than her, his slender fingers pinching the small round buttons, calmly helping her fasten


    them.


    asionally, his hand brushed against her back.


    Through the thin fabric, Ranita''s skin was burning up.


    So hot, so hot!


    "I''ll do it myself..." Ranita reached out, but her fingers were caught by Brendon. She looked at him


    with a dizzy head and saw the turbulent waves in his dark eyes.


    The throat felt as if it was stuck.


    The more flustered her heart became, the more jumbled her thoughts were. She couldn''t think


    straight and could only watch as he leaned in to kiss her with half-open eyes. His thin lips carried a


    coolness like air conditioning, but her heart was too hot and it quickly became dry and scorching


    from their intense embrace.


    Her tongue was entangled, and every breath was filled with his scorching presence.


    The strength in the man''s arms tightened a bit.


    Their bodies, zing with heat, felt as if they were enveloped in mes, surging over her, making


    her body taut and filled with a powerful intensity!


    "Brendon..." The passion burned as the woman leaned against him, seemingly intoxicated and soft.


    Their tantalizing breaths collided, creating a strong chemical reaction.


    "Ring, ring!"


    Suddenly, the phone rang and broke the tension in the air. On the screen of Brendon''s phone, the


    name "Shannon" stood out prominently. He answered with a frown of apology, "Sorry... Shannon


    has some trouble on her end. I might have to go over there."

 Chapter 121 A Shameful Joke

    Chapter 121 A Shameful Joke


    Chapter 121 A Shameful Joke


    Brendon regained hisposure and carefully put on his shirt without a single wrinkle. Seeing


    Ranita standing there silently, he said curtly, "Get some rest."


    Ranita nervously yed with her fingers and mustered up the courage to grab onto Brendon''s


    sleeve, "Brendon, can''t you stay? You said you would."


    Looking down at her from above with furrowed brows, Brendon replied coldly, "Shannon had an


    ident and is bleeding badly. I''ll be back soon."


    Soon? But he was going to Shannon''s side; how could he possiblye back so quickly?


    "Brendon... just this once... Can you stand by my side for once?" Can youfort me a little bit?


    Ranita looked at Brendon with teary eyes.


    "Ranita..." Just then, Brendon''s phone rang again.


    This time it was Holly calling via video chat; she sounded anxious as she spoke urgently into the


    camera, "Brother! Come back quickly! Shannon is crying so much that her eyes are swollen shut


    from all that blood loss! You need toe back andfort her..."


    In amidst all this chaos in the background came Shannon''s soft weeping voice,


    "Holly... I''m really okay... Don''t bother Brenden anymore. Ranita needs him more than I do right


    now."


    "Shannon! How can Ranita be more important than you?" Holly grumbled unhappily as Shannon


    choked up again,


    "Holly, please don''t say that. Ranita is alone in Kurima Hospital right now. She needs Brendon to


    take care of her."


    "But doesn''t Mr. Webster have something going on between him and Ranita? Why not let him take


    care of her instead?"


    "Holly, please stop talking!" With gentle forcefulness, Shannon interrupted Holly before turning those


    big doe-like eyes towards them pitifully, "Please don''t me Holly for what she said earlier. She was


    just worried about me being hurt or something like that but really it isn''t anything serious¡­You guys


    don''t need to worry about me."


    "Brenden¡­ why don''t you stay here at hospital instead? Take good care of Rantia," pleaded


    Shannon who always knew how to y things off well when around Brendon ¨C making people feel


    sorry for her even when they shouldn''t have been.


    "Ranita, I''m sorry! I didn''t mean to disturb you while you were resting... I''m just clumsy and even


    managed to trip in the bathroom. Holly was worried about me, so we decided to video call you,


    Ranita... please don''t be angry..." Shannon''s voice was hoarse and whiny as she spoke through


    sniffles. Ranita felt a headacheing on and her temper ring up.


    "You''re saying a lot without really saying anything!" Ranita snapped back at Shannon. Immediately,


    Shannon bit her lip and tears streamed down her face as if she had been deeply wronged. "Ranita...


    I-I didn''t say anything wrong, there''s no need for you to be so harsh..."


    "Ranita, what''s your problem?" Holly immediately went to Brendon toin, "Brendon, look at


    her attitude. Shannon got hurt, and she spoke to her so kindly, but she''s being so fierce!"


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "That''s enough! Everyone stop talking!" Brendon hung up the phone.


    Emotions churned within Ranita as she grabbed onto Brendon''s sleeve tightly with ck eyes


    staring stubbornly at him. Her voice sounded like that of a mosquito, "You promised me that you


    would take care of me."


    No love or affection spoken of - only the final duty between husband and wife.


    As he looked over at Shannon who was teary-eyed before returning his gaze back onto Ranita,


    Brendon eventually pulled away from her grip, "You should rest first. I''ll go home for a bit but will


    come back soon."


    The man left with his warmth dissipating from their fingertips.


    Lying on the hospital bed looking upwards into space, Ranita couldn''t help but smile wryly. She had


    let go of all pride in order for this moment yet it still ended up bing an embarrassing joke.

 Chapter 122 Stirring Up Chaos In The Heart

    Chapter 122 Stirring Up Chaos In The Heart


    Chapter 122 Stirring Up Chaos In The Heart


    "Ssh-"


    A gust of cold wind swept through, causing the haphazardly ced medical records on the table to


    fall and reveal the bottom page, which happened to be the pregnancy report that Brendon had


    almost seen...


    That night, Brendon did note back.


    Restless throughout the night, Ranita got out early in order toplete her discharge procedures.


    She returned home, gave Chris a call to change their meeting time and then promptly buried herself


    under nkets sleeping until dawn broke.


    However, it wasn''t exactly peaceful sleep either; she kept waking up every now-and-then with


    thoughts revolving around Brendon.


    At Bouldend Mansion...


    Shannon was half-lying on the bed, her eyes shimmering as she looked at Brendon. "Brendon,


    thank you for taking care of me all night. You didn''t go back to see Ranita, will she be angry?"


    Last night, after Brendon came back, Shannon had been holding his hand all night.


    She even needed him to be there when she slept, and if he left, she would wake up crying...


    Brendon had no choice but to stay with her all night.


    Brendon stayed up all night and looked a bit tired. "Don''t worry, I''ll talk to her. Ranita is always


    reasonable and won''t get angry easily."


    "Really? Butst night..." Shannon stopped halfway through her sentence and teared up. "It''s all my


    fault... I''m so useless..."


    Shannon was consumed by self-me, with droopy eyes like a wilting flower that lost its vitality.


    Anyone who saw her couldn''t help but feel pity for her.


    "Okay, don''t me yourself! You didn''t want this ident to happen either." Brendon called the


    servant over to arrange breakfast for Shannon before rushing back to his room to freshen up.


    He hurriedly went to the hospital only to find an empty ward. Brendon frowned as he tried calling


    Ranita on the phone but received a mechanical message saying that the number was busy.


    Ranita was throwing a tantrum!


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon rushed over to Ranita''s apartment and rang the doorbell for quite some time before it


    opened.


    "Ranita, why didn''t you tell me you were discharged?" Brendon frowned as he saw how pale Ranita


    looked. His voice softened as he said, "You''re not better yet; why did you leave?"


    "I didn''t want to stay in the hospital." Ranita replied calmly before politely asking, "Is there


    something you need?"


    "Do we have to talk about it outside?"


    Ranita opened the door wider and let Brendon into her apartment. She was wearing casual clothes


    - shorts with a short-sleeved shirt - showing off tender skin on both arms and legs while emitting a


    fragrant scent when she turned around.


    "I went looking for you at the hospital but couldn''t find you... I''m sorry I broke my promise!" After


    pausing briefly, Brendon exined carefully, "Shannon had nightmares all night¡­I just couldn''t


    leave¡­"


    He was worried that Shannon might have nightmares, but he hadn''t expected this. In just a few


    words, inparison, it was enough to crush Ranita''s heart into the mud.


    "Let''s not bring up the past again. I''m fine, and I want to rest at home. Mr. Stuart, if there''s nothing


    else, please leave," Ranita said with her eyes lowered, a hint of frost in her emerald eyes.


    Ranitia did not want any more reminders of past hurts that still hadn''t fully healed yet; they were too


    painful.


    "Ranitia." Brendon lifted his feet and caught up from behind, wrapping his arms around her and


    turning her around. One arm pressed against her waist, and the other hand held onto her fingers as


    he leaned in close to her nose. "You can be stubborn when you shouldn''t," he said.


    Breath was close at hand, and a cold face with a hint of smile and helplessness.


    Ranita''s heart was in chaos.

 Chapter 123 Slow Down, Honey

    Chapter 123 Slow Down, Honey


    Chapter 123 Slow Down, Honey


    Ranita backed away.


    Brendon leaned closer again, his breath falling on her skin, causing an itchy sensation. She wanted


    to back away even more.


    Her ears turned red.


    "You... let go!" Ranita was a little annoyed by Brendon''s actions.


    "I''m really sorry." Brendon was a responsible person and always felt he owed something to Ranita.


    His voice became softer as he said, "Let me stay here today to take care of you! Tell me what you


    want to eat and I''ll have someone make it for you."


    It was the weekend anyway; there was no need to go to work.


    Ranita''s heart throbbed fiercely.


    She lowered her eyelids and teased him by asking, "Are you sure? What if Miss Murphy feels dizzy


    again or has a fever or pain in her hands or feet? Won''t you go take care of her?"


    Ranita was starting to dislike herself. She kept offering her sincere feelings only for them to be


    shattered time after time but she still couldn''t let go.


    "Ranita... are you jealous?" Brendon pinched her chin and forced her head up so she had no choice


    but look into his eyes that were ck as night with curiosity written all over them.


    Ranita felt stabbed in the heart; she could barely maintain expression on her face. "Mr. Stuart, are


    you kidding? How dare I be jealous?"


    As soon as she finished speaking, Brendon''s phone rang.


    He took it out of his pocket and nced at it; his expression changed slightly.


    Curious about who called him this time around, Ranita peeked over and caught sight of the word


    "Shannon" on the screen which made her feel suffocated inside.


    "Miss Murphy is looking for you, wouldn''t you answer?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Brendon frowned and hung up the phone, "I won''t answer now since I agreed that I would stay here


    today to take care of you."


    Suddenly, Ranita felt like her heart had flown away.


    "Ring ring!"


    Brendon''s phone started ringing again, and he looked like it would explode if he didn''t answer it this


    time around.


    With drooping eyes, she said, "You should probably answer."


    "Don''t let Miss Murphy wait too long," Ranita said softly urging him along. She felt nauseous from all


    the ringing!


    Brendon gave her a deep look before answering, "Shannon, is there something wrong?"


    The phone transmitted Shannon''s weak yet slightly panting crying voice, "Brendon... I''m sorry... I


    didn''t mean to disturb your time with Ranita like this. I''m just too clumsy, I identally tore open my


    wound while walking in the garden¡­"


    "The doctor helped me re-treat my wound, but it hurts so much! Can youe back and keep me


    company please? Without you, I can''t even drink water."


    Disgust surged up, and Ranita almost vomited on the spot. She was filled with anger, wrapping her


    arms around Brendon''s neck and intentionally gasping for air, letting out a long breath. "Babe~ Slow


    down... I can''t take it..." The scene fell silent.


    Brendon stared at her with narrowed eyes, his palm burning hot as he pressed it against her lower


    back. He gave a firm squeeze and Ranita swallowed hard, blinking before letting out a soft moan. It


    was like being tickled by feathers - tantalizingly teasing.


    On the other end of the phone line, Shannon finally seemed to realize what was happening and


    spoke in a choked voice. "Sorry... Brendon ... you''re busy." And then she hung up urgently.


    Ranita remained in Brendon''s embrace as they locked eyes without speaking for some time. Regret


    filled Ranita''s heart as she tried to exin herself through her muddled thoughts, "I''m sorry... just


    now I felt like Miss Murphy had an attitude problem..."


    She puffed up her cheeks and pushed Brendon away forcefully while ring at him, "I just couldn''t


    stand how she talked! What are you going to do about it!?"

 Chapter 124 Turn It Off

    Chapter 124 Turn It Off


    Chapter 124 Turn It Off


    There was no hint of emotion on Brendon''s face; he simply continued staring at her with dark eyes


    that seemed to bore into hers.


    When she got angry, her eyebrows will rise slightly while her cold demeanor transformed into one of


    elegance - there was something more feminine about her than usual which made her seem like a


    little girl who suddenly showed her ws like kittens wanting to scratch someone.


    Cute yet fierce; there was also an indescribable possessiveness that moved Brendon deeply.


    "You said it yourself - men shouldn''t hit women!" Ranita felt uneasy under his gaze and shrunk back


    slightly while avoiding eye contact.


    "Haha!" Suddenly Brendon let out a lowugh, "Are you scared now? Why weren''t you scared when


    you were talking nonsense earlier?"


    With naturally high cheekbonesbined with his cold expression made him look even more


    handsome when heughed. His brows lifted upwards while the corners of his eyes curved


    downwards making him seem like frost melting into spring water during winter days.


    Ranita red at him angrily but behind her ears had turned red from embarrassment; mes raged


    within her heart, "Stopughing!"


    Ranita, feeling irritated, reached out to push him.


    Her fingers were grabbed. Brendon held her fingertips, gently pressing on her fingertip. He chuckled


    softly, and his gaze softened as he leaned closer to her ear and said with meaning, "It wasn''t


    nonsense though... you begged me this way before."


    Instantly embarrassed beyond belief, Ranita''s face turned beet red


    Brendon held her fingertips to his lips, his gaze intense, like a wolf ready to pounce and devour her


    flesh.


    Ranita swallowed hard and, with her spine tense, cautiously moved backward.


    "Don''t talk nonsense! I didn''t do it!"


    Brendon may seem aloof on the surface, but he can be quite fierce in bed. Sometimes when things


    got heated, she found herself begging him for more. However, in those moments her mind was


    clouded and anything she said didn''t really count.


    "No?" Brendon approached her.


    "I really didn''t do it..." Ranita denied, but her steps were forced to keep moving backwards until she


    lost bnce and fell onto the couch.


    The soft sofa cushioned her, sinking in deeply.


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Get up quickly!" Ranita was pinned down, her face already red like a zing cloud.


    "Then think about it again, are you sure there''s nothing?" The man''s low voice sounded a bit


    mischievous, as if he was teasing her.


    Ranita was pulled forcefully.


    They had been married for three years, and if they looked closely, there were many unforgettable


    moments. However, even the most beautiful memories were just memories. In twenty days, they will


    no longer be husband and wife.


    "Is it important? Does it matter?" Ranita stared at Brendon, his lips falling lightly behind her ear,


    tickling and sliding down to her neck and corbone.


    She was tightly wrapped up.


    Just like every time before, she was under his control, pulled into the morous dream he offered.


    The sound of a kiss crushed into the air and filled her ears. She blushed and gasped in confusion,


    the sound of her breaths more delicate and sticky than the mimicked tones from earlier.


    Ranita was entangled with reluctance while feeling embarrassed and wanting to escape at the


    same time.


    It was really hard to make herpletely give up on Brendon.


    Pulling and tugging, an on-again, off-again dance, always igniting a fire within her just when she


    was determined to let go. Just when she thought there was hope, he''d make a cut in her heart.


    As he reached into her back, Ranita grabbed his shoulder and said, "Do you want to turn off your


    phone?"


    "Someone wants you to apany them, they can''t even drink water."


    Ranita raised her eyebrows and her eyes were slightly red at the corners, "Turn it off, be gentle."


    Brendon lightly scratched her nose and chuckled softly, "So you can be sarcastic too. Shannon was


    spoiled growing up and sometimes she does cling to me, but..."


    Before the words could be finished, a sudden and urgent ringing sound interrupted.

 Chapter 125 Drowning

    Chapter 125 Drowning


    Chapter 125 Drowning


    "Do you want to answer the phone?" Ranita calmly handed the decision over to Brendon.


    The ringtone kept ringing and showed no sign of stopping.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    As expected, and unexpected, the phone rang. Ranita''s lips curled into a sarcastic smile. "You


    better answer it, what if it''s an emergency?"


    Brendon emotionlessly reached for his phone and answered. It wasn''t Shannon on the other end,


    but Holly.


    "Brendon, Shannon identally fell into the artificialke and drowned..."


    "What happened? How did she drown?" Brendon''s face darkened as he asked while anxiously


    running his hand through his hair.


    "I don''t know! She was in a bad mood and feeling lost so I went for a walk with her. Next thing I


    knew she was feeding fish when she suddenly fell into the water... Shannon can''t swim and choked


    on water."


    Ranita didn''t hear what else was said as Brendon hung up the phone with a serious expression.


    "Something happened to Shannon, I need to go to the hospital."


    "I''ll send someone over to take care of you."


    What would be the point if it wasn''t Brendon?


    Ranita calmly straightened her clothes and forced out a nd smile towards him. "No need, I can


    take care of myself."


    "Miss Murphy drowning is no small matter; you should leave now."


    Brendon looked at Ranita with deep-set eyes before pursing his thin lips but ultimately left in haste.


    Sigh...


    Ranita felt sad inside.


    Barely had Brendon left when Dn arrived at her apartment in haste calling out her name, "Ranita!


    Why did youe back alone? You didn''t even call me!"


    Herplexion wasn''t great - pale with dark circles under her eyes fromck of sleep.


    Dn felt sorry for her, "How did Brendon take care of you? Your face looks worse than yesterday!"


    He paused then asked hesitantly, "Did he make things difficult for you?"


    "No," Ranita shook her head.


    "But your expression says otherwise? You look like crying or feeling lost..." Dn mercilessly


    exposed how she really felt pushing another thorn deeper into Ranita''s heart that already hurt


    enough.


    "Okay, have rest! What do you want for lunch? I''ll make something."


    "Anything works!" replied Ranita casually before falling asleep under light covers due to exhaustion.


    At the hospital...


    "Brendon! You finally came!" Holly had swollen eyes from crying too much. "Shannon is terrified of


    water; just falling in made her faint..."


    "Don''t cry anymore. Let me have someone send you back home." After arranging everything for


    Holly''s departure, Brendon pushed open VIP ward doors where Shannony unconscious on bed...


    Shannon''s face was pale and her lips were the same. When she saw Brendon''s delicate face, two


    clear tears immediately fell down her cheeks. Her voice was hoarse and full of self-me,


    "Brendon... I''m sorry..."


    "Don''t cry, your eyes are swollen." Brendon sighed and reached out to rub Shannon''s head.


    "... Woo woo..." Shannon still couldn''t stop crying, "Brendon, it''s all my fault... I didn''t mean to, I


    didn''t mean to disturb you and Ranita... I just... I just..."


    Shannon bit her pale lips hard, leaving a trace of blood. She grabbed Brendon''s arm with a


    distressed expression and said weakly, "I just can''t stand you being intimate with Ranita."


    "I know I shouldn''t be jealous, you haven''t officially divorced Ranita yet and intimacy between


    spouses is normal... but my heart is really hurting, the impact on me is too great... I know I don''t


    have the right to feel this way, but I can''t control my heart, it''s breaking..."

 Chapter 126 Compensation

    Chapter 126 Compensation


    Chapter 126 Compensation


    Brendon frowned and his expression became emotional.


    "Shannon..."


    "Brendon, I''m fine... I just got emotional, I''ll be okay in a bit!" Shannon looked softly at Brendon with


    a voice that was both teary and intentionally yful, making one feel ticklish inside.


    "Brendon, don''t be difficult. Last time was just an ident... you don''t have to carry the burden..."


    Shannon approached him boldly, pressing her body against his waist and even rubbing her chest


    against him.


    Brendon discreetly dodged away.


    "Shannon... about what happenedst time, I haven''t exined it clearly to you. I know using being


    drunk as an excuse is not eptable, and I should take responsibility. However, I am currently


    married and may not be able to give you an exnation. But I willpensate you in other ways."


    Brendon''s decision to divorce was indeed partly due to Shannon, but not entirely.


    Shannon''s heart grew cold as she stared at the tall man with innocent eyes. Though her expression


    was hurt, her words were reasonable and understanding. "Brendon... I won''t me you... you are


    still married to Ranita now, and I won''t ask for anything from you... and I also have a great


    responsibility."


    "Brendon, I don''t ask for anything. I just hope you won''t distance yourself from me," Shannon said,


    her eyes turning red. "I always feel like a burden to you."


    Brendon pursed his lips, reached out and rubbed her head, and made a nomittal "Hmm"


    sound.


    Without hesitation, she jumped into theke to get Brendon back. She struggled and choked on


    water, but all she got was this result. Shannon couldn''t ept it!


    Outside on the balcony, Brendon furrowed his brow as he listened to Caleb''s report. "Mr. Stuart,


    they found the person responsible for Miss Bowman''s car ident. The driver who rear-ended her


    is a middle-aged man named Frederick Powell. He fled the scene after the ident and was caught


    by police early this morning."


    "When they arrested him, he was sleeping in his room drunk," Caleb continued. "Based on his


    alcohol test and confession, police concluded that Frederick Powell had too much to drink and had


    hallucinations of chasing Miss Bowman''s car before crashing into it."


    Brendon listened with a raised eyebrow. "Did they investigate Frederick Powell''s personal


    rtionships?"


    "Yes," Caleb replied quickly. "He has no grudges or disputes with Miss Bowman nor any financial


    issues with her." After a pause, Caleb added, "Frederick apologized sincerely and offered to pay for


    her hospital bills and car repairs..."


    Brendon felt annoyed just as he was about to speak when suddenly there was a loud noise from


    inside Shannon''s hospital room.


    He turned around only to see Shannon sitting on the ground with teary eyes looking at him through


    the ss window.


    "Take care of that," Brendon put away his phone then helped Shannon up while asking, "What


    happened? Why are you so careless?"


    "I... I need to go use the restroom..." Shannon lowered her head in submission then asked softly, "...


    Were you talking with Ranita earlier?"


    "She''s injured, and there''s no one to take care of her... Brendon, maybe you should go back and


    take care of Ranita! I''m fine now. If you stay here, I''m afraid Ranita will be angry with me again."


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Shannon noticed that Brendon''s expression was a bit serious, so she immediately put on a helpless


    look and spoke with a pretended strength, "Without you, Brendon, I''m very sad, can''t eat or drink


    properly... But all of that doesn''t matter. I have Holly by my side, my aunt, and many other people


    taking care of me. You don''t need to worry about me."

 Chapter 127 Taking Care Of Both Ends

    Chapter 127 Taking Care Of Both Ends


    Chapter 127 Taking Care Of Both Ends


    Brendon helped Shannon sit down properly before saying firmly, "Don''t worry about these things


    anymore. Focus on getting better!" Then he remembered Ranita''s indifferent face and said softly


    again, "... Ranita is strong-willed; she won''t be angry over such trivial matters."


    "Really? That would be great! As long as Ranita isn''t mad!" Relief washed over Shannon as she


    spoke cheerfully once more, "... It isn''t easy for someone like Ranita living alone in Kurima so we


    should take good care of her together!"


    "When I''m discharged from the hospital, Brendon, please take me to visit Ranita! I''ll thank her in


    person then." As she finished speaking, Steve knocked on the door and entered.


    Steve greeted Shannon politely and gestured for Brendon to step outside for a chat. "Ranita had an


    ident," Steve said, pushing his sses up with his index finger. "Have you gone to see her?"


    "I came from her house," Brendon exined, sensing a hint of sarcasm in Steve''s tone. "Shannon


    identally fell into theke and ended up in the hospital, so I came to check on her."


    "Hmm..." Steve paused for a moment before saying, "You seem busy taking care of both ends."


    Brendon caught onto the slight mockery in Steve''s words and remained silent for a few seconds


    before responding. "It''s alright. Shannon grew up following us around like a little sister we spoiled


    rotten. She can be stubborn at times but she has a good heart deep down inside. Three years ago, I


    promised my grandfather that I would send her away from here as she was causing trouble


    between us."


    Steve smirked slightly at Brendon''s words and said knowingly, "I understand if you want to make it


    up to Shannon."


    "As a friend, I won''t do much until your rtionship with Ranita is resolved. But in the future, I hope


    you''ll understand," Steve paused and continued, "I looked at the medical records. Although


    Shannon fell into theke, she was promptly rescued and only ingested a little water. Hospitals can


    be crowded and noisy, so it''s better to rest at home."


    In a subtle way, Steve indicated that Shannon wasn''t in a very serious condition. He left quickly.


    ...


    Ranita slept until noon while Dn bought some lean meat porridge from an upscale restaurant


    which tasted great.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    As they were chatting together happily about this or that topic, suddenly Dn stood up from his


    seat, "Ranita... have you checked out what''s trending?"


    "Trending?"


    "... On social media," Dn went on exining further, "Eve got injured while filming suspended


    scenes today! She just got back home after receiving treatment locally."


    Upon hearing this news, Ranita immediately leaned forward towards him as various rumors were


    circting online ranging from broken bones or disfigurement all over social media tforms


    without any reliable sources avable yet.


    In the end, Dn managed to get in touch with Eve''s assistant.


    Eve did indeed have an ident, she fell while doing a zip line and lost consciousness. After


    receiving initial treatment at a local hospital, she was quickly transported back to Kurima and was


    currently at the Tranquil Valley Private Hospital.


    When Ranita arrived there with Dn, the main entrance had already been surrounded by


    paparazzi. However, the hospital had enough security personnel stationed outside so they didn''t


    allow these people inside. The VIP ward located upstairs was reserved exclusively for public figures


    such as Eve, to avoid disruption caused by paparazzi or fans alike.


    As soon as they stepped out of elevator, a turnter, Brendon could be seen standing tall talking


    with one nurse along corridor leading towards VIP ward area.


    He was tall and handsome, with an outstanding presence that made him stand out wherever he


    went. The young nurse who had been talking to him blushed and left as Ranita pursed her lips,


    about to call out to him. Suddenly, she heard a sweet voice say "Brendon" from beside him.


    The door of the hospital room next to them opened, revealing Shannon''s figure as she happily


    hugged Brendon''s arm and leaned into his embrace. She spoke in a sweet and affectionate tone,


    "Brendon... can we go home now? That''s really great!"

 Chapter 128 When Words Fail, Actions Speak

    Chapter 128 When Words Fail, Actions Speak


    Chapter 128 When Words Fail, Actions Speak


    Ranita''s heart was struck hard, causing a sharp, throbbing pain. She wanted to casually greet them,


    but her feet felt as though they were nailed to the ground, making it impossible to move forward.


    "Ranita, why aren''t you moving..." Dn caught up from behind, and his face darkened as he


    witnessed the couples hugging and embracing in public.


    "Oh... Ranita?" Just at that moment, Shannon spotted them, and her voice rang out in a surprised,


    delicate tone.


    Brendon looked back at her before gently moving Shannon aside and walking towards Ranita. "Why


    are you here? Is something wrong?"


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


    Ranita was at a loss for words.


    "We came to visit a friend! Ranita is perfectly fine; Mr. Stuart, you don''t need to worry," Dn said,


    stepping forward to block her. His gaze lightlynded on Shannon, and he wore a sly grin. "Oh,


    Shannon is swaying back and forth, looking like she''s about to fall t on her face. Mr. Stuart,


    shouldn''t you give her a hand?"


    Shannon''s face blushed, and she pouted, "Mr. Webster, why do you have to be so mean in your


    words? Did I offend you somehow?"


    "Why beat around the bush? I just find you annoying, alright?"


    "Dn! Be more considerate with your words!" Brendon''s voice wasced with frost as he shot a


    cold nce at Dn and led Ranita a few steps away.


    In a hushed tone, he asked, "How did you get here? Did youe with Dn? Did he go to your


    apartment looking for you?"


    "Just as Dn mentioned, we came to see Eve," Ranita replied after a moment of silence. She


    pushed Brendon''s hand away and gave him an indifferent look. "We''re in a hurry, so we''ll go


    ahead."


    Ranita nced briefly at Shannon before heading to Eve''s hospital room.


    "Ranita!" Eve was lying on the hospital bed, one leg raised high with a heavy cast. When she saw


    Ranita, her eyes lit up like a bee spotting honey. "My darling,e here quickly!"


    Ranita was taken aback, took a few quick steps, and her eyes moistened. "How did things get this


    way? And why didn''t you call me and Dn when the ident happened? We only found out


    through the news, for heaven''s sake!"


    Ranita''s emotions were unstable, and her eyes turned red in an instant.


    "Ranita, don''t cry! Don''t cry!" Eve couldn''t move as shey down and yelled at Dn, "Dn, what


    are you waiting for? Comfort her!"


    Dn rolled his eyes. "You did this to yourself;fort yourself."


    Eve seemed somewhat innocent. Ranita restrained her emotions and squeezed out a smile. "I didn''t


    cry! I was just startled by your appearance."


    "Don''t believe those marketing ounts online," Eve interrupted them after pausing for a moment.


    "It''s not as serious as they make it seem! I thought I was going to die when I read them myself."


    "Pah! Nonsense!" Ranita pped her hand on the bed rail, causing Eve to scream in pain


    immediately. It wasn''t until then that Ranita noticed that there were alsorge abrasions on Eve''s


    hands.


    "I''m so worried about you," said Ranita with great concern.


    "Yeah! When we saw it trending online, we were scared out of our wits too," added Dn with a


    sigh while worrying about his few remaining driving license points.


    "You brat! How many times have I told you not to run red lights?" shouted an angry Eve at Dn


    while raising her fist threateningly.


    "I''m so scared!" replied Dn defiantly without backing down.


    They were true friends with good vibes all around until a voice that sounded both sweet and soft


    came from outside the door. The three of them exchanged nces before rolling their eyes in


    unison.

 Chapter 129 Disgusting

    Chapter 129 Disgusting


    Chapter 129 Disgusting


    "Eve, can wee in?" Shannon and Brendon entered together without waiting for an answer from


    inside the room.


    Shannon maintained her gentle and fragile appearance, her voice sweet and soft. "I saw the news


    about your injury during filming, and I thought I''de to check on you. How are you? Is your


    health improving?"


    "And it''s such a coincidence that I didn''t realize you knew Ranita, Eve," Shannon added. Eve was


    also in the entertainment industry, and they had crossed paths at some events, although they


    weren''t particrly close.


    Eve, wearing her own mask of politeness, smiled but with an air of insincerity. "Miss Murphy, it''s a


    pleasure to meet you! I''m doing quite well, thank you for your concern." She paused and then cast


    an indifferent nce at Brendon. "Who is this?"


    In reality, Eve knew who Brendon was very well, but she was just unwilling to admit it.


    "Eve, this is Brendon," Shannon replied, still with a touch of shyness in her eyes as she gazed at


    Brendon. Her eyes held a thousand unspoken words, hinting at the rtionship between her and


    Brendon, both subtly and overtly.


    Once again, Ranita''s heart thudded painfully against her ribs, the pain leaving her breathless.


    Ranita avoided eye contact but Eve tightly grasped her hand. She gave Ranita a cold look before


    saying, "So this is the famous Mr. Stuart? How coincidental that he shares the same name as


    Ranita''s husband."


    Shannon bit her lip in distress while Brendon furrowed his brow in displeasure. Before he could


    speak up, Eve continued with a sly tone, "Miss Murphy, yourpanion here looks quite simr to


    Ranita''s husband. Is he someone else''s spouse?"


    "Eve," Shannon began to whine pitifully with watery eyes. "Did I offend you? I only came over to


    check on you."


    "I didn''t scold or hit you," Eve retorted in an actress-like voice that sounded eerily simr to


    Shannon''s own tone. "I merely asked two simple questions. Do you really need to be so dramatic?"


    Eve made herself sick with how cruel she was being towards Shannon.


    Sighing heavily, she added, "Even if yourpanion is someone else''s husband, it doesn''t concern


    me at all! Don''t worry about it; I''ve seen enough of men and women ying around."


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


    Eve was merciless with her words and left poor Shannon feeling utterly humiliated.


    "I apologize, but I have a friend here with me now, and I can''t entertain you. Please feel free to go,"


    Eve said in such a way that Shannon couldn''t stay any longer.


    Sniffling, Shannon looked pitiful and said, "Eve, I''m sorry for bothering you! And, Ranita, I


    apologize."


    Shannon''s eyes were red-rimmed, and she bit her lip, then tugged at the man''s arm. "I must be so


    foolish, it seems like I''ve made someone angry again. Brendon, didn''t you have something to say to


    Ranita? I''ll wait for you outside once you''re done."


    With a show of frustration, Shannon stormed out, leaving an awkward atmosphere behind.


    "Ranita..."


    A cold and mocking tone seeped into Ranita''s voice as she replied, "Aren''t you going to follow her


    outside? If she happens to trip and fall or take a tumble down the stairs, I''d be the one to me."


    "You should go!" Ranita clearly had no interest in talking to him. Brendon furrowed his brow and


    said, "We''ll talkter. I''ll take Shannon back to rest for now."


    As the people left, the hospital room fell into silence.


    "Finally gone!" Eve rolled her eyes in annoyance and looked at Ranita with a hint of resentment.


    "Ranita, you''re really something else."


    Ranita pursed her lips, thinking to herself: It''s not that I''m anything special; it''s just that my heart


    aches too much.

 Chapter 130 The Favored One

    Chapter 130 The Favored One


    Chapter 130 The Favored One


    Eve was so angry that her fingers trembled.


    "If it were me, I would have beaten those two scumbags with a broomstick long ago!" She paused


    for a moment before gritting her teeth and saying, "You always let Brendon get away with


    everything!"


    What could she do?


    They say the favored one has nothing to fear. But what can she do when her heart was filled with


    Brendon and she forgave him time after time despite being hurt repeatedly?


    Ranita didn''t say anything but lowered her head and asked softly, "Do you want something to eat?"


    Sensing Ranita''s low mood, Dn and Eve exchanged nces and changed the subject on their


    own ord.


    Ranita ate some food with Eve while pointing at her forehead. "What happened here? You never


    told me about this," Eve grumbled.


    Ranita briefly recounted what had happened while Eve snorted in disbelief. "Why would someone


    randomly chase your car like that? Could someone be behind this?" She turned towards Dn


    usingly. "Don''t you think so too?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Dn propped up his chin thoughtfully before replying, "I''ll investigate further into this matter." He


    added, "It''s strange how there were so many cars on the road yet he chose yours specifically¡­ And


    didn''t you mention earlier that he followed you for quite some distance?"


    Indeed Ranita felt wronged - why did such an ident happen out of nowhere when she wasn''t


    even acquainted with the culprit? If someone was behind all of this... who could it be?


    "Yes yes yes! Dn please investigate thoroughly... don''t leave any potential dangers unchecked!"


    urged Eve as they decided on their course of action.


    That night, while Ranita was browsing through information about studying abroad in Greece,


    Brendon came knocking at the door.


    "What is it?" Ranita pressed against the door handle without inviting him inside.


    Brendon gazed at her intently before saying heavily, "Let me go inside."


    "No need; we can talk here! Say what needs to be said then leave," replied Ranitia impatiently - if


    there was no hope then she should not expect any good oue; otherwise only she will end up


    getting hurt again anyway!


    "Ranita... I''m sorry about today," Brendon said with a formal tone. "Shannon identally fell into the


    water, and I couldn''t just leave her there."


    "Are you sure it was an ident?" Ranita couldn''t help but ask.


    Every time Brendon was around her, every time he showed a little more care towards her, Shannon


    would appear out of nowhere. Her intentions were obvious.


    Only Brendon believed that she meant no harm.


    "What do you mean? Do you think Shannon did it on purpose?" Brendon paused for a few seconds


    before disagreeing. "There''s no reason for Shannon to do something like that."


    A heavy stone weighed down on Ranita''s chest.


    "I don''t want to argue with you. I need some rest now, so please leave," Ranita urged Brendon to go


    away once again.


    Brendon''s face darkened as he pressed his palm against the door. "Ranita, I already apologized to


    you. Don''t be unreasonable."


    He pushed the door open halfway with ease and stepped inside.


    "Did you get enough rest today? Does your wound still hurt?" Although his words were meant as


    concern, Ranita felt cold all over and turned around without saying anything.


    "Ranita!" The man reached out his long arm and caught her before forcing her body upright while


    towering over her from above. "Answer my question."


    "Let go!" Without looking at him in the eye, Ranita tried to break free from his grasp.


    But his fingers suddenly fell on her wound, and he seemed to let out a sigh. He said, "I''ll change


    your dressing and leave."

 Chapter 131 The Boiling Frog In Warm Water

    Chapter 131 The Boiling Frog In Warm Water


    Chapter 131 The Boiling Frog in Warm Water


    It wasn''t a question; it was an order.


    Brendon always acted so domineeringly yet unreasonably - but she loved him wholeheartedly


    nheless.


    "Do what needs to be done?"


    Ranita''s heart had already been twisted into knots long ago.


    Brendon breathed heavily while staring at her with starry eyes filled with darkness, "You''re still


    angry? Didn''t I exin everything?"


    "I''m not angry." She spoke in a chilly voice that sounded distant.


    Brendon saw how puffy Rantia''s cheeks had be and understood what was going through her


    mind; he grabbed onto Rantia''s slender waist tightly before chuckling, "You say you''re not angry?"


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "I''m not!" Rantia denied firmly.


    "You are!"


    Her anger made Rantia feel suffocated; she red at him furiously while shouting back, "Yes! Yes!


    You''re right! What does it matter if I''m angry or not?! You promised me something then broke your


    word again - can''t I be mad about that?"


    The tears in Ranita''s eyes were both sour and hot as they swirled around her eye sockets.


    "Ranita... Shannon didn''t mean to... don''t hold it against her. Let me help you change your


    bandages."


    Even now, Brendon was still thinking about Shannon.


    Suddenly, Ranita realized how ridiculous she was being by getting angry and jealous with Brendon


    here. Some people could easily make her feel inferior without even trying.


    Ranita suppressed her emotions and spoke coolly, "The medicine is in the drawer. You can change


    it yourself."


    "Okay, you go sit down. I''ll wash my hands." As Brendon went to wash his hands, he passed by the


    kitchen where he saw two clean sets of dishes next to the sink. He paused for a moment before


    continuing on his way.


    Brendon immediately guessed that Dn had been here not only because he hade but also


    because he had eaten with Ranita here.


    He rubbed his fingers together a few times and pressed his lips together before going off to wash


    his hands in a bad mood.


    "Dn came over?" Brendon asked casually while wiping Ranita''s wound with cotton swabs. "I told


    you not to get too close to him."


    "Men and women alone will be misunderstood."


    It was an old argument that went nowhere since neither of them could see their own problems


    clearly enough for resolution.


    "Why are you angry?" Ranita looked up at Brendon hoping for some relief from this endless tug-of-


    war between them.


    "We''re not officially divorced yet," said the man calmly as he applied ointment onto her wound. "Any


    husband would be unhappy seeing their wife eating with another man."


    Ranita felt another pang of pain in her heart at these words.


    "After our divorce cooling-off period is over, will you regret it?" She asked tentatively causing


    Brendon''s hand holding the cotton swab paused mid-air. His thick eyshes fluttered open


    revealing cold ck pupils shining like deep pools of ice water.


    Ranita''s heart trembled slightly at this sight.


    She wanted so badly for there still be some kind of romantic feelings between them but asking


    made her extremely afraid.


    This constant anxiety weighed heavily on her day after day without respite or relief from its grip on


    every breath she took.


    "Forget it; don''t answer that."


    Brendon had no reason to regret anything anymore since the person he loved had returned and


    fulfilled his promise to his grandfather. If his grandfather were still alive, perhaps there might have


    been some hesitation, but now there wasn''t any reason left for him to regret anything anymore.


    Brendon lowered his gaze as he threw away the gauze and reced it with a new band-aid. The


    orange light shone upon him, casting shadows upon chiseled features. His low head caused light


    haloing around him which fell upon both shirt fabric or skin making him look clean-cut yet charming.


    The scene was peaceful and warm all around them.


    Over the past few years, she was like a frog in lukewarm water, trapped in Brendon''s web, turning


    the act of loving him into a habit.

 Chapter 132 Crossing The Threshold

    Chapter 132 Crossing The Threshold


    Chapter 132 Crossing the Threshold


    After taking care of the trash, Ranita handed the car keys on the table to Brendon and said, "You''ve


    changed the bandage; it''s time for you to go back."


    Brendon looked around the apartment, not very spacious but cozy in its arrangement. It was


    Ranita''s domain, and everywhere bore the traces of her life. She enjoyed reading foreign books, so


    the coffee table was filled with such books. Their room used to have these books too. Brendon felt a


    bit nostalgic.


    Ever since Ranita left Bouldend Mansion, it felt like someone had taken a small piece of his


    heart. At first, he thought it would heal over time, but he soon realized that the wound was festering


    and wouldn''t get better.


    "Ranita, how about I stay here for a couple of days and take care of you? I''ll leave once you''re


    better," Brendon feigned a pretext to hide his true intentions.


    Ranita looked at him steadily, "Take care of me? Can you doundry and cook? Can you mop the


    floor and fold clothes?"


    Brendon was taken aback by her questions.


    "Mr. Stuart, you''d better go home. If you stay here, I might end up taking care of you!"


    Ranita didn''t really want Brendon to leave, but what could she do? Moreover, if Brendon stayed,


    Shannon would likely call him hundreds of times in a day, which she wanted to avoid.


    "Ranita!" Brendon felt belittled, his cheeks reddening. "Don''t underestimate me! I won''t be Brendon


    if I can''t even take care of a woman!"


    "I''ll have someone bring my luggage over."


    Ranita couldn''t stop Brendon, and she watched as he boldly entered the premises, shamelessly


    inputting his fingerprint into the electronic door lock.


    Brendon ced the luggage in the bedroom and raised an eyebrow, looking at the bed that was


    only one and a half meters wide. "This bed is a bit small."


    "It''s not as spacious as Bouldend Mansion''s. Would you rather go back?" Ranita replied, and


    Brendon had already opened his suitcase, neatly hanging his clean clothes in her wardrobe.


    Half for each of them.


    Ranita''s heart felt both choked and stuffed as she went to the small study. She tidied up the


    materials on the desk and received a call from Chris. Ranita put on her headset, answering the call


    as she continued to clean up, "Hello?"


    "Ranita, it''s me," Chris paused and continued, "Have you rested yet?"


    "Not yet," Ranita had originally scheduled a meeting with Chris for work, but due to her injury, she


    had to cancel it at thest moment. Ranita was always strict when it came to work, and she


    apologized, "I''m sorry for causing a dy in your ns."


    "It''s okay. Today was just a preliminary meeting. And you''re still going to help with the negotiations


    in a few days, right?"


    "Okay!" Ranita chuckled softly, her tone rxed.


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Click. The door opened.


    Brendon walked in, tall and elegant.


    He held onto her shoulders and leaned down slightly, bringing his cheek close to hers as he


    whispered into her ear, "Who were you talking to on the phone?"


    His deep voice was low enough to be heard through her earphones.


    There was silence on Chris'' end for a few seconds before he spoke up again, "Is Brendon there


    too?"


    "I''ll study the materials carefully these next few days. If I have any questions, I''ll contact you


    promptly. I have to go now." Ranita politely ended the call and turned back towards Brendon.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Brendon caught sight of "Chris" on her locked screen before she could put it away.


    "Who called you just now?" He probed.


    "A friend," Ranita replied nonchntly while avoiding eye contact with him.


    Brendon''s expression faltered slightly as he lowered his gaze and concealed his emotions behind a


    veil of indifference. "Is that so?"


    Ranita had lied to him.


    Sometimes even Brendon couldn''t understand why Steve or Chris seemed so familiar with Ranita


    despite not having spent much time together previously?

 Chapter 133 Do You Really Want Me To Go Like This?

    Chapter 133 Do You Really Want Me To Go Like This?


    Chapter 133 Do You Really Want Me To Go Like This?


    "Is there anything else?"


    As the words fell, Brendon''s gaze fell on a stack of documents on the table, and he asked,


    "Greece? Are you nning to go to Greece?"


    Brendon felt his breath grow heavy.


    "When are you nning to go?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Ranita stuffed the documents into a drawer and spoke softly, "Just to take a look, I haven''t decided


    yet." After a pause, Ranita stood up and walked past Brendon, saying, "I''m going to take a shower


    and rest."


    The sound of water sshing filled the air as thoughts swirled around inside Ranita''s head.


    At Bouldend Mansion¡­


    Shannony half-reclined on bed with red smoke circles under eyes; pitifully looking at Amiya she


    said, "Auntie! Brendon sent someone over here with luggage ¨C he''s staying at Rantia''s ce!"


    As soon as Shannon finished speaking, tears began streaming down her face; paired alongside


    those big watery eyes made anyone who saw them feel sorry for Shannon.


    "Auntie¡­does Brendon like Rantia? After all they''ve been together for three years¡­I''m scared that


    Brendon will change if that''s true¡­"


    Shannon knew that Amiya cared for her the most, and because of the Murphy family, Amiya would


    do everything in her power to get Shannon into Bouldend Mansion.


    Amiya patted Shannon''s hand tofort her. "Shannon, don''t cry! Your eyes will swell up and you


    won''t look pretty!" Amiya didn''t approve of Brendon''s actions, but even if someone was at fault, it


    couldn''t be Brendon''s fault.


    "Ranita yed a good trick by using a car ident as an excuse to lure Brendon over." Pausing for


    a moment, Amiya added, "But don''t worry Shannon. Brendon is still on your side. Otherwise he


    wouldn''t have spent the whole day with you."


    "What''s the use of spending all day with me? He still went over to Ranita!" Shannon sobbed softly


    and choked up so much that she could hardly speak. She looked miserable and pitiful.


    Amiya already had a bad temper before this incident happened. Now she was furious and her face


    turned dark.


    "Give me that phone!" Amiya reached out towards the servant. "I''ll call Brendon back here."


    "No!" Shannon grabbed hold of her hand. "What if Brendon mes me? Ranita is right; she hasn''t


    officially divorced him yet; they are supposed to be together! I shouldn''t have forced myself between


    them like this..."


    "Nonsense!" Amiya interrupted her angrily but then calmed down slightly as she spoke softly, "You


    grew up with Brendon since childhood; if it wasn''t for his grandfather meddling in things he shouldn''t


    have been involved in, maybe you two would''ve gotten married long ago - your children might even


    be running around by now!"


    "Ranita is just an another woman who interfered in your rtionship with Brendon," said Amiya


    coldly while anger umted in her eyes making it clear how upset she was about this situation.


    "Shannon, rest well! I will make sure justice is served," promised Amiya before leaving.


    Shannon achieved what she wanted ¨C feeling slightly better after hearing those words from Amiya.


    "Well... I''ll rest well..." replied Shannon obediently but sadly as though feeling defeated before lying


    down weakly without any strength left inside of herself.


    Amiya instructed the servants to take good care of Shannon before going outside whereupon calling


    Brendon on her phone immediately afterwards.


    After taking a shower, Ranita met Brendon who had just finished his call on the balcony.


    "Ranita¡­ I¡­"


    "Are you leaving?" asked Ranita anticipating his response, "Do you need my help packing?"


    The woman approached him, and there was a faint scent emanating from her body.


    Brendon embraced her from behind, his hand slipping under the cover to gently massage her


    stomach, his voice taking on a hint of determination, "Do you really want me to go like this?"

 Chapter 134 Blushing Cheeks

    Chapter 134 Blushing Cheeks


    Chapter 134 Blushing Cheeks


    The man''s palm felt hot against skin.


    Ranita''s back trembled as she ced her fingers on his hand and said softly, "The decision to leave


    or stay is up to you."


    Ranita threw the decision right back at him.


    "Haha!" Brendon chuckled softly, took out his phone from his pocket in front of Ranita, turned it off


    and tossed it onto the table. "I''m not leaving."


    Ranita was a little surprised.


    "Whatever," she thought. She couldn''t kick him out now that he had moved in. What else could she


    do?


    Ranitay on her side in bed, feeling uneasy.


    "What are you thinking about? You can''t hear me even if I shout," Brendon came up behind her and


    wrapped his strong arms around her waist. With a gentle tug, he turned her around and enveloped


    her in his embrace.


    His breath was hot against hers.


    His gaze fixed on hers like a predator hunting prey in the dark.


    Ranita pursed her lips as he held onto her fingers with long slender bones that were undoubtedly


    the most beautiful pair of hands she had ever seen. They hardly held hands outside but every time


    they were together like this on the bed, these hands would always make Ranita feel alive again.


    But when she thought about how these same hands had caressed Shannon before, Ranita felt


    suffocated inside.


    "Brendon, I want to sleep!" Ranita pushed away from him and said firmly, "I''m hurt. I need rest."


    She turned away from him and watched as the numbers ticked by on the clock: it was already


    eleven o''clock at night!


    Brendon fell silent for a few seconds before cing his hand back around Ranita''s waist again with


    an alluringly deep voice whispering into ear, "Rest well. I won''t disturb you."


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


    This made Ranita''s body stiffen slightly.


    "Don''t be nervous; just rx like we used to," Brendon whispered once more into ear before falling


    silent again.


    Rx like they used to?


    How could things possibly be like they used to be? Before they were married but now they were just


    two people who wanted nothing more than divorce each other!


    It made Ranita''s heart ache unbearably.


    She thought she wouldn''t be able to sleep, but after three years of sleeping together, they had


    already grown ustomed to each other. After turning a few times, Ranita fell into a deep sleep in


    Brendon''s embrace.


    Their breathing was steady.


    Brendon gazed deeply at the woman and reached out to pinch her nose, softly muttering,


    "Heartless."


    Brendon remembered the earlier phone call, which was from Amiya, asking him to return to


    Bouldend Mansion because Shannon was feeling upset and couldn''t sleep.


    Amiya said a lot, but Brendon''s mind was preupied with Ranita.


    He decided to stay.


    "Divorcing me, you must be happy... Is the person you like Dn? He''s not that great, what do you


    really like about him?" Brendon''s voice was soft, and sometimes even certain words were not


    spoken aloud.


    Ranita, in a daze, heard thest sentence and smiled vaguely as if in a dream. She murmured


    indistinctly, "Wherever he is, I like him."


    Brendon, she liked everything about him.


    Brendon''s eyes darkened, and the only trace of tenderness dissipated, leaving behind a cold and


    icy demeanor.


    Ranita slept well.


    She didn''t know if the child''s biological father was present, so the child didn''t dare to act recklessly.


    Not only did she sleep through the night, but she also didn''t feel nauseous or sick when she woke


    up in the morning.


    Ranita turned her head and saw Brendon still sleeping. She gently moved his arm that was draped


    over her waist.


    "... Huh? Where are you going?" Brendon pulled her back into his arms.


    The bed was already small, and now they were even closer, tightly pressed against each other.


    The warmth of the man''s body came close, and a certain part energetically brushed against her


    lower back.


    Ranita''s face turned red in an instant.

 Chapter 135 The Gentle Touch At The End

    Chapter 135 The Gentle Touch At The End


    Chapter 135 The Gentle Touch at the End


    No matter how refined and aloof a man may seem, once he gets into bed, he is no longer human.


    Ranita''s heart was pounding in her throat, as if a fire had been lit inside her. It burned so fiercely


    that her throat became dry and she couldn''t even speak a word.


    "Um... what time is it?" Brendon seemed unaware, with his eyes closed and half of his face buried


    in the pillow, his voice hoarse with the morning.


    "Seven o''clock," Ranita took a deep breath and moved her body back, increasing the distance


    between her and Brendon.


    The source of heat seemed to follow her as if it were a fish chasing after her, shifting along with her


    movements.


    "Take a nap again, you need to rest when you''re injured."


    Once again, Brendon pulled Ranita''s body close to his. Her cold heart began to stir with life again,


    but she couldn''t find a way to push him away.


    Her heart was trembling up and down, and her breathing was also erratic.


    "I''m hungry, I''ll get up and make breakfast," Ranita said as she grabbed his arm. The man''s body


    lay t, but he inadvertently dragged her along with him, causing the woman to press against


    Brendon''s chest.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Brendon''s face was right in front of her.


    There were no dead corners, and every feature and contour was perfectly beautiful.


    It was not just a case of beauty being in the eye of the beholder, Brendon truly had a stunning face


    that left both men and women in awe.


    Ranita stared at the man nkly, but her heart was filled with mixed emotions.


    "Brendon..." Ranita sighed inwardly, lowering her eyelids and speaking kindly, "I''m getting up to


    make breakfast. You should go to work."


    Today was a workday.


    Brendon only fell asleep in the early hours of the morning and was reluctant to wake up. He half-


    closed his eyes and leaned towards Ranita, saying, "There''s nothing going on in the morning."


    Ranita squirmed, tightly held in his grasp.


    As she became more anxious, her face grew even redder and her breathing became more urgent.


    "But I need to use the restroom, please let go," she said.


    The cool voice became gentle and tender.


    Brendon flipped over and pressed her down, his fingers scratching her palmzily as he looked at


    her with narrow eyes before lowering his head to kiss her lips.


    Ranita tilted her head to one side.


    The kissnded on the corner of her lips.


    As if not noticing her resistance, Brendon''s lips slowly moved from the corner of her mouth to


    behind her ear. Her round and plump earlobes were exceptionally sensitive, turning bright red after


    being bitten.


    Brendon covered her and began kissing down her neck.


    Ranita''s heart was resistant, and her mind was a mess. She instinctively reached out to push him


    away. The tug-of-war between reason and emotion left her in a dilemma.


    But the man''s strength was formidable, and her gentle attempts to resist felt almost like a form of


    yielding...


    After.


    Ranita''s lips were slightly parted as she gasped for breath.


    "I''ll carry you to take a shower." Brendon only wore a pair of home pants on his lower body,


    revealing his smooth and toned upper body muscles. His skin was tight and exuded an astonishing


    strength in the morning light.


    Brendon was in an extremely good mood.


    "I''ll go by myself!" Ranita''s eyes were still watery at the corners, and her cheeks were flushed, like a


    beautiful peony suddenly dyed with a brightyer of color, extremely beautiful.


    Ranita''s voice was still a little hoarse.


    But all of this made Brendon extremely happy.


    Ranita was marked with his presence both above and below, filled with his scent. Just like before,


    Ranita still belonged solely to him.


    "I''ll carry you!" Brendon bent down without hesitation.


    Ranita struggled for a while but couldn''t break free, so she decided to stop moving.


    But as they entered the bathroom, Brendon reversed and locked the door behind them.

 Chapter 136 So Angry

    Chapter 136 So Angry


    Chapter 136 So Angry


    Ranita slightly widened her eyes.


    "You... You wouldn''t still be thinking... No, no, I can''t handle it," she said, her face flushing with heat.


    At first, Brendon was quite gentlemanly, but as he continued, he became a bit uncontroble and


    reckless. Ranita was afraid of hurting the baby in her belly and held onto his hand to ask him to be


    gentle, but Brendon made her beg for it...


    Of course, Ranita was forced to plead for mercy.


    In response, Brendon teased her with a yful, "Such a delicate flower."


    Brendon raised an eyebrow, "I also want to take a shower." After a pause, he added, "I won''t do


    anything."


    Before, they had also washed together.


    Most of Brendon''s needs were resolved in bed, and he was also a man of his word. Ranita chose to


    trust him.


    Ranita took off her clothes and turned her back to Brendon.


    The cold, pale skin with its smooth curves caught the man''s eye. Brendon lowered his eyshes


    and popped the dense bubbles onto her back.


    His hand quickly moved from her back to her waist.


    Ranita''s ears went numb and she was afraid she couldn''t withstand the teasing. With a quick


    heartbeat, she reached out and grabbed his finger, saying, "Don''t... don''t... I can do it myself."


    In the next second, he grabbed her hand with his other hand and gently pushed her against the


    wall.


    Cool tiles were stuck to her back, but in front of her it was scorching hot.


    It felt like being caught between ice and fire.


    In fact, when a man says "I''m not doing anything" it''s the same as saying "I''m just trying to sneak


    in."


    Ranita didn''t expect that her body would be more sensitive after getting pregnant. Just a few


    kisses would make her blush, her heart race, and her body heat up.


    Brendon quickly helped her wash off the bubbles on her body, and also rinsed himself off. He then


    picked her up and rushed towards the bed, kissing her lips.


    Not only her body, but even her heart had melted into a puddle. Ranita held onto his back like a


    kitten and whispered, "Be gentle..."


    The mobile phone suddenly rang.


    The atmosphere was thick, and Brendon absentmindedly swiped his hand, tossing his phone onto


    the bed. Unbeknownst to him, the phone had connected to a call.


    Shannon on the other end of the phone was about to speak with bated breath, but heard a


    suggestive shouting from the phone instead.


    It was both delicate and wheezing.


    Shannon''s anger surged to her throat, almost making her spit blood!


    She gritted her teeth and listened for a while, then angrily hung up the phone and mmed her


    mobile to the ground. She pounded on the bed board with both fists, making a loud thud thud thud


    sound!


    "Shannon, what''s wrong?" Holly knocked on the door and saw the broken phone on the ground.


    She was scared and quickly went to see Shannon. "Who bullied you?"


    The anger on Shannon''s face disappeared, and she looked up with a pale face, her nose twitching


    as she struggled to speak.


    "Shannon, please speak!" Holly was getting anxious.


    "I... never mind..." Shannon shook her head and bit her lip, not saying anything. "Holly, I''ve been


    disturbing you guys at Bouldend Mansion these past few days. I want to move out."


    "Nothing..." Shannon tried to hide it, but Holly kept pressing her for answers. When she heard that


    Brendon had spent the night at Ranita''s, she immediately became furious. "That Ranita! How


    shameless of her!"


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


    "I''m going to go settle the score with her! Ignoring my warnings time and time again, let me show


    her what I can do!"

 Chapter 137 Warmth

    Chapter 137 Warmth


    Chapter 137 Warmth


    "Holly... don''t go..." Shannon pretended to hold onto Holly, heartbroken. "Brendon probably wants to


    make up with Ranita, so I won''t disturb them! I''ll pack up and leave soon, making room for Ranita so


    she doesn''t have to see me unhappy."


    "Shannon! What are you talking about? My brother would never reconcile with Ranita! He only has


    you in his heart!" Holly was extremely angry and full of contempt for Ranita. "Ranita is nothing; she


    was kicked out and now dreams of entering Bouldend Mansion again!"


    "Shannon, rest assured and recover from your injuries! I''ll go settle the score with her!" Holly ran off


    in a rage while Shannon''s soft face shed a barely noticeable smile before getting out of bed


    unsteadily.


    Meanwhile, Brendon was tormenting the hated Ranita.


    By the time they finished cleaning up and sat down at the table, it was already past ten o''clock.


    Brendon made breakfast.


    "It''s just okay; please bear with it," Brendon looked somewhat surprised by his own cooking skills or


    lack thereof.


    "It''s fine," said Ranita as she took a few bites but didn''t feel like eating anymore.


    She felt tired.


    Her stomach also felt heavy; regret filled her heart.


    She shouldn''t have spoiled Brendon like this without considering whether or not it would affect their


    child.


    Ranita nned on contacting Steveter when suddenly he pinched one of her fingers.


    "If you''re not going to eat anything, then why are you daydreaming?"


    Ranita pulled back her finger while lowering eyshes irritably saying, "I''m thinking about work."


    At the mention of work, Brendon''s expression darkened slightly.


    He remembered that soon enough Rantia will be leaving Stuart''s Corp. Thinking back on what he


    saw in his study earlier, he put down his fork asking, "After leaving Stuart''s Corp., are you going to


    Greece? What about your studio? Are you closing it?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Ranita paused momentarily.


    Didn''t he know what happened regarding his sister?


    If only he paid more attention...


    The studio that she had worked hard on wasn''t hers anymore.


    Luckily, Ranita wasn''t too bothered. In the trantion world, her name was a golden ticket - she


    could easily start another studio if needed.


    "I''m not going to," Ranita replied vaguely.


    "Why not?" Brendon pressed on. "Didn''t you say before that you wanted to run the studio well and


    take it public?"


    Ranita''s heart skipped a beat. She didn''t expect him to remember.


    "That was just a joke. How can a small studio go public? Besides, I''m not as smart or good at


    making money as you are." Ranita made more money than an average person through trantion,


    butpared to Brendon, it was likeparing apples and oranges.


    Brendon stared at her intently with a glint in his eyes. Ranita praised him for being smart and good


    at making money! He felt proud and arrogant. "Um... you''re actually very talented and excellent


    too."


    Ranita had excellent personal qualities - she studied well, was intelligent, beautiful with an air of


    elegance. If she hadn''t said that her parents were ordinary peasants herself, anyone would have


    mistaken her for being born into an affluent family as a rich youngdy.


    "Thank you!"


    Unfortunately, no matter how talented or excellent she was, she couldn''t make its way into his heart.


    The atmosphere between them rarely felt so rxed and pleasant; Ranita didn''t want to break it up.


    After finishing their meal together, Ranita washed the dishes while her phone rang out loud. Being


    covered in foam, Ranita had no choice but to ask Brendon for help, "Brendon, could you please


    hand me my phone?"


    Brendon got up from the sofa and reached out for the phone, but paused midway through reaching


    out. His voice filled with meaning and he asked, "Are you still secretly contacting that old man?"


    Bad woman! Is goingto Greece just an excuse? Does she really want to be someone else''s


    third wife in Dubai?

 Chapter 138 I Forbid It

    Chapter 138 I Forbid It


    Chapter 138 I Forbid It


    Old man?


    Ranita cocked her head slightly with a somewhat nk expression on her face.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Rashid!" Brendon tightly reminded her of it. Ranita suddenly realized what he meant.


    She cleaned off all the foam from her hands, picked up the phone, and walked over to the balcony


    to answer the call. They spoke in Arabic, and Brendon didn''t understand much of what they said. He


    only knew that while talking andughing, Ranita was watering nts on the balcony. She seemed


    happy about something...


    "What does he want?" Brenson blocked the door of the balcony, stretched himself tall like a door


    frame, and asked curiously while following behind Ranita inside again


    "Private matters."


    She''s brushing him off?!


    Brendon got back into the kitchen with Rantia. He watched as the diligent girl continued washing


    dishes. Walking over, Brendon suggested, "You should buy a dishwasher."


    "I don''t use it often, and there''s no need since there aren''t many people around," Ranita didn''t cook


    at home often... and... she was going to leave Kurima soon anyway, so this apartment was just


    temporary.


    "Why did the old man want you?" Brendon circled back to the question.


    Ranita nced at him and joked nonchntly, "He wants to marry me as his third wife."


    "Ranita... I forbid it!" Brendon raised his voice slightly. "You''re not even officially separated from me


    yet, and you''re already thinking about being someone else''s wife?"


    Ranita opened her mouth but swallowed her words back down. They finally had a chance to live


    together in peace; she didn''t want to ruin the mood. She smiled with squinted eyes and said, "I''m


    joking with you! Mr. Bassett said he''lle visit Kurimater and hopes to take me out for a meal."


    "A meal?" Brendon paused before speaking sourly. "I don''t trust his intentions."


    "Mr. Bassett is my friend; he''s given up on marrying me off already. Don''t be angry," Ranita finished


    speaking before Brendon hugged her from behind.


    "Really?"


    "Yes!" Ranita pursed her lips and hid all of her emotions deep inside.


    Brendon helped change her bandages before leaving for work.


    As soon as he left, the doorbell rang. Ranita thought that Brendon had forgotten something so she


    quickly opened the door...


    Smack! A shadow flew towards her.


    A heavy p came towards Ranita; an angry voice shouted sharply, "Ranita, you shameless slut!"


    Ranita dodged but Holly''s p stillnded on her neck causing her skin immediately turning red


    while also feeling hot!


    "Holly! What are you doing again?!" Ranita pped Holly backhand across the face squarely in


    retaliation.


    "Ranita, how dare you hit me!" Holly was unreasonable ring at Rantia ready for a fight!


    Just then another figure rushed over pulling Holly away urgently saying, "Holly, don''t be impulsive!"


    "Shannon! Why are you holding onto me? Look what this bitch did! She dared hit me; I have got


    teach this lesson!" Despite Shannon''s attempts at stopping Holly, she charged towards Rantia again


    shouting insults like "Do you have no shame?! Do you love stealing other people''s things? Does


    being another woman give special sense of aplishment?"


    Holly yelled by the doorway while neighbors on their floor started peeking their heads out curiously


    watching everything unfold.


    "Holly, what are you talking about..."


    "Do you think I''m lying? My brother is with Shannon, and if it weren''t for you seducing him, he


    wouldn''t havee to stay with you overnight," Holly sneered, suddenly grabbing Ranita''s cor


    and revealing a red mark. "Ranita, can''t live without a man anymore? You''re divorced and still


    crawling into my brother''s bed. It makes me sick just saying it!"

 Chapter 139 Just Playing Around

    Chapter 139 Just ying Around


    Chapter 139 Just ying Around


    Ranita choked on her breath.


    "Holly, legally speaking Brendon and I are still married! Besides, our private affairs don''t concern


    you!" Ranita''s eyes were cold as she spoke with disgust. "Holly, if you cause any more trouble I''ll


    call the police!"


    "Fine! Call them... I want to see who will be embarrassed when this matter blows up!" Holly retorted.


    Ranita was about to argue back when Shannon grabbed Holly gently by the arm and pleaded in a


    soft voice, "Holly please don''t fight with Ranita anymore! Let''s go back."


    "Shannon, why should we leave when we''re right?" Holly patted Shannon''s hand while ring at


    Ranita. "Shannon is kind-hearted so she won''t argue with you but I''m different."


    "If you make Shannon sad again, watch how I deal with you!"


    Ranita looked at the two of them bickering back-and-forth feeling nauseous.


    "Holly... don''t be impulsive or scare Ranita! She didn''t say anything wrong¡­It''s understandable that


    she slept together with Brendon since their divorce procedures haven''t beenpleted yet."


    "Don''t get angry at Ranita because of me or else Brendon will me uster..." With her face


    twisted in distress and sadness in her voice, Shannon pulled on Holly''s sleeve urging her to calm


    down before telling her to wait for her in the parking lot while she talked things out calmly with


    Ranita.


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Reluctantly leaving after being pushed by Shannon, Holly had no choice but to walk away first.


    "Rantia, I apologize on behalf of Holly. She was just too anxious earlier which led to physical contact


    between both of you. You also pped her once so let''s consider this matter settled okay?" With


    mistyshes batting, Rantia felt like refusing would make everything worse as she listened


    attentively.


    "I need some rest now, Miss Murphy." Rantia replied indifferently without mentioning whether or not


    she forgave them.


    Ranita didn''t want to see Shannon, nor did she want to talk to her! Her presence constantly


    reminded her of the distance between her and Brendon.


    "Ranita, you''re so kind! I knew you wouldn''t mind!" Shannon said softly, twirling a strand of hair


    around her delicate finger. Her voice was slow and pitiful. "Ranita, you must be exhausted fromst


    night... Brendon can be a bit rough sometimes..."


    Shannon drew out thest word in an attempt to sound strong. She gave Ranita a sweet and


    innocent smile. "I''m not feeling well right now, and Brendon is young and impulsive. He just likes to


    have fun. But luckily it''s with you, Ranita! If he had gotten involved with someone else... I would


    have been devastated!"


    Ranita felt like she had been stabbed by cactus needles all over her heart.


    Just for fun?


    Was Shannon only clinging onto her because she couldn''t get close to Brendon otherwise?


    What did Brendon think of her?


    Just a toy that he yed with asionally?


    "Brendon has been staying at your ce these past few days, so please take good care of him for


    me," Shannon continued as if nothing was wrong. "Andter when I feel better we should go out for


    dinner together so I can thank you properly."


    It was as if Ranita was just some little ything that Shannon arranged for Brendon''s pleasure.


    "Ranita, are you okay?" Shannon asked innocently when she noticed Ranita''s expression wasn''t


    good. "Did I say something wrong again? Sorry if I upset you; my brain doesn''t work too well


    sometimes."


    Shannon spoke softly with an innocent look in her eyes as if what she said earlier hadn''t hurt


    anyone.


    Ranita gritted her teeth as anger boiled up inside of her.

 Chapter 140 Clearing Things Up

    Chapter 140 Clearing Things Up


    Chapter 140 Clearing Things Up


    She had kept giving in but now felt cornered.


    Why did it seem like she was being bullied by someone who wasn''t even part of their rtionship?


    Did they really think that they could push around someone who looked easygoing?!


    "Miss Murphy," Ranita retorted sharply while holding back tears, "Your words are strange indeed!


    Brendon is my husband; where else would he sleep at night if not here?! Who else will take care of


    him besides me?! As far as whether or not I''m tired goes¡­that''s between us married couples."


    She paused before continuing sarcastically, "But since Miss Murphy seems so concerned about our


    private life¡­wouldn''t it be better if we told each other which positions we use or how long we do it?"


    As soon as the words left Ranita''s mouth, Shannon''s eyes welled up with tears making them look


    like deted balloons.


    "Ranita, I grew up with Brendon as childhood friends. I''m just concerned about him. Why do you


    have to be so harsh?" Shannon bit her lip, her voice pure and fragile like it could break at any


    moment. "You know our rtionship with Brendon..."


    Ranita felt disgusted inside.


    This was too disgusting!


    Ranita sneered coldly, "Don''t make meugh. You can shamelessly cling to my husband every day


    just because you grew up together? Everyone knows that men and women should not be intimate


    unless they are married or in a rtionship. What about you? Miss Murphy, youe from a noble


    family; surely someone taught you that it''s wrong to touch another woman''s husband?"


    Shannon turned pallid.


    Her body shook uncontrobly, as if Ranita had stepped on her tail. Her eyes were full of misery and


    tears streamed down immediately.


    "It wasn''t like that... I never wanted to ruin your marriage... it was an ident..."


    She willingly went into their bedroom and fooled around with him; how was that not ruining their


    marriage? What else could be considered ruining it?


    Ranita couldn''t believe how thick-skinned Shannon was.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    At first, Ranita didn''t want to bring it up again but the wound was dug out forcefully once more


    causing unbearable pain.


    Since Shannon wanted to settle the score, then let''s clear things up once and for all.


    "Shannon, did Brendon force himself on you while he was drunk? Were you also drunk or did


    someone tie you up forcing you into his room?" Ranita couldn''t continue speaking anymore; the


    disgust in her heart almost overwhelmed herpletely.


    "I... I really didn''t mean it... I never wanted this..." Shannon swayed back and forth like she had


    suffered a great blow; she looked like she would fall over at any moment.


    Ranita felt repulsed by this disy of weakness from Shannon.


    "Miss Murphy, Brendon is not here. Don''t put on a show in front of me." There was a pause, and


    Ranita''s lips curled into a mocking smile. "If you must faint, do it somewhere else. Don''t put the


    me on me again; I can''t bear it!"


    "Ranita..."


    "Shannon?" Suddenly, a voice of surprise came from somewhere.


    The neer was Dn.


    He nced briefly at Shannon before revealing his pearly white teeth in a smile that didn''t quite


    reach his eyes. "What are you doing here? Although I don''t hit women often, if ever but if anyone


    dares hurt Ranita, then maybe I''ll make an exception."


    "Mr. Webster..." Shannon sniffled, her voice soft and filled with a sense of brokenness. "I didn''t do


    anything to Ranita, it was her... she was the one who picked on me. Mr. Webster, you''re so biased!"


    "Haha! I''m not biased towards Ranita, do I favor you? Where do you get such a big ego?"


    Shannon looked even sadder as Dn berated her, frantically wiping away the tears that kept falling


    down her face. "Mr. Webster... why do you have to bully a girl like me?" she whimpered pitifully.


    This set Dn offpletely. He grabbed his file bag and red at Shannon, saying angrily, "I bully


    you just by saying a few words? What about you? You hired someone to kill Ranita, what''s that


    called?"


    "That''s called being a murderer!"

 Chapter 141 A Scene

    Chapter 141 A Scene


    Chapter 141 A Scene


    used.


    Shannon immediately refuted in a helpless tone, "I didn''t! When did I ever do something like this?


    Mr. Webster, please don''t wrongly use me!"


    "Ding Dong!"


    The elevator door opened and Holly rushed out.


    "Shannon! Are you okay? Why are you crying?" Holly widened her eyes and supported Shannon


    while ring at Ranita and Dn with anger. "You two bullies teamed up against Shannon right?"


    "Holly, say it again!"


    "You have the guts to be together but not let me speak huh? I''ll say it then - bullies!" Holly can


    challenge Dn but he can''t let Holly falsely use Ranita.


    He understood better than anyone else how much Brendon meant to Ranita.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Holly, shut up! Don''t make me hit you!" Dn was provoked into anger and his face turned ugly.


    "You dare..." Holly wasn''t afraid either as she stepped forward.


    "Holly! Don''t be impulsive," Shannon pleaded softly. "Let''s talk things out calmly without getting


    angry."


    "If you fight because of me, then I will feel sad." After pausing for a moment, Shannon exined in


    distress, "Mr. Webster, you misunderstood me. I didn''t hire someone to hit Ranita. This is illegal.


    How could I possibly do such thing?"


    "Ranita, do you believe in me?"


    Dn wanted to say something but was stopped by Ranita who pursed her lips coldly, "Please


    leave."


    "You want me to leave now?" Holly blocked the door with an angry look on her face. "Ranita, since


    when did your business be ours after getting hit by someone else. What does it have anything


    rted with Shanon?"


    "Ranita, you''re so fickle-minded, maybe this is all due your own fault. Why would anyone target only


    you if there isn''t any reason behind it?"


    This statement really struck home!


    Just as Ranita was about to speak up, Shanon suddenly apologized, "Ranita, I''m sorry. Holly


    speaks too bluntly sometimes. She didn''t mean it."


    "I apologize on behalf of her. We shouldn''t havee here suddenly. We''ll go back now without


    disturbing your time with Mr. Webster."


    Shannon held her chest and ran away. Holly naturally chased after her, but not before leaving a


    threat, "Ranita, you better watch out!" The farce hade to an end. Ranita felt exhausted and


    didn''t look too good.


    "Ranita..."


    "Did Shannon really cause my car ident?" Ranita rubbed her temples and sat on the couch


    weakly.


    Dn touched his neck and handed over some documents to Ranita without answering. "Take a


    look at this."


    "Frederick''s family ran away?" Ranita was stunned, then fell into deep thought.


    "Yes, Frederick is still in custody while his family has fled directly. If there''s nothing fishy going on


    here, why did they leave?"


    "But there''s no evidence that Shannon did it."


    At her words, he touched his nose again and said, "I just wanted to trick her... who would have


    thought Holly woulde along and mess things up again."


    Ranita sighed heavily, tightened her lips and said, "Next time don''t be so impulsive; we need


    evidence before we can question anyone."


    Stuart Corp., office.


    When Brendon opened the drawer he saw a ck corner of a file folder sticking out from under


    some papers. He furrowed his brow slightly as he gently pulled it out.


    The ck cover was old.


    It was a notebook with notes dating back six years ago until three years ago; every page turned


    revealed the dreams of love that were hidden within each line written by a young girl who longed for


    love.


    Every word spoke about ''him''.


    On thest page were only two short lines: one saying ''I''m getting married'' while the other read ''I


    love you''.


    Brendon''s calm heart suddenly became turbulent inside him.

 Chapter 142 What He Minds

    Chapter 142 What He Minds


    Chapter 142 What He Minds


    Brendon closed the notebook heavily then threw it into the drawer.


    Although they both agreed to this rtionship willingly enough, how many men could truly say they


    wouldn''t mind when their wife had someone else in their heart?


    He couldn''t help feeling disgusted by it all.


    "Ding Ling Ling!"


    The inte rang.


    "Mr. Stuart, Miss Stuart, and Miss Murphy are here..." Julia hadn''t finished speaking yet when Holly


    barged in with Shannon.


    "Brother! You have got to help Shannon!" Holly rushed in angrily then immediately began crying,


    "You don''t know how terrible Ranita is! She bullied Shannon then shamelessly used her!"


    Seeing Holly made Brendon''s head hurt even more.


    "Holly, stop talking! Let''s go back first! Don''t disturb Brendon''s work!" Shannon had tears on her


    face and looked at Brendon with a soft and helpless expression. She said, "Brendon, I''m sorry... We


    didn''t mean to disturb you. I''ll take Holly back now, and we can talk when youe back tonight."


    "Oh my god, Shannon, you''re too kind-hearted!" Holly pouted and disagreed in a hurried tone.


    "Brother, are you going to help Shannon or not?"


    "What happened?"


    Holly wasn''t too stupid; she didn''t mention what she did wrong but instead med everything on


    Ranita. She said, "Brother, Shannon and I had nothing to do so we decided to visit Ranita. But


    unexpectedly she started cursing at Shannon for no reason and even forbade her from staying at


    the Bouldend Mansion."


    "The worst part was that she used Shannon of hiring someone to hit her car! She''s too much;


    she invited some unsavory people herself but still mes it all on poor Shannon!"


    As Holly spoke more quickly in anger, Brendon frowned deeply. "Ranita isn''t like that."


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Brother... How could you side with Ranita? What will happen to poor Shannon? Her eyes have


    been swollen from crying all the way here; she keeps ming herself saying that she wants to pack


    up things and leave Bouldend Mansion." Holly asked angrily, "Brother, are you really going to


    make peace with Ranita? What about Shannon?"


    Brendon''s face darkened.


    "Holly, enough! This is adult business; stay out of it! Now go home!"


    "Brother..." Holly wanted to continue speaking but was stopped by Shannon.


    Shannon bit her lip weakly, "Brendon, and Holly, please don''t fight anymore! It''s my fault for living in


    Bouldend Mansion which isn''t good. It''s normal for Ranita having opinions about me. I will pack


    up my things, and move out so as not make it difficult for you, Brendon."


    "As for hiring someone hit her car, it really wasn''t me ... I don''t know the driver, and I never thought


    of hurting Rantia."


    Her voice was already fragile, and after choking sobs, she looked at Brendon with innocent big eyes


    asking, "Do you believe me, Brendon?"


    Brendon frowned again.


    "Shannon, I believe you. Stay at Bouldend Mansion and rest until you''re feeling better. Don''t


    worry about anything else," the man said, pausing before turning his cold gaze to Holly. "Holly, go


    with Shannon and take care of her."


    Holly pouted and tried to argue, but Shannon held her back.


    "Brendon... I''m sorry for interrupting your work. Holly and I will leave now," Shannon said softly,


    tilting her head in a submissive gesture. "Ranita misunderstood me, that''s why she said those


    things. So Brendon, don''t fight with Ranita because of this."


    "My heart will be restless."

 Chapter 143 Avoiding Him

    Chapter 143 Avoiding Him


    Chapter 143 Avoiding Him


    Shannon looked pale and worried as she watched Brendonfort her.


    "I''ll talk to her about this matterter on," he assured her gently. "Don''t get upset; go back home and


    rest."


    Brendon had called Ranita several times but got no answer from her phone.


    During dinner time that day, he went back to her apartment only to find it empty - not a soul was


    there except for a note left by Ranita on the fridge: "I have some business out of town for two days.


    Take care of yourself."


    Brendon frowned deeply as he sat down on the sofa with an uneasy feeling in his chest while


    continuing to call Ranita''s phone.


    But still no answer from Ranita.


    She had just finished packing when Shannon came over earlier that morning with those words


    which pricked at Ranita''s heart like thorns.


    So she escaped up Moon Mountain where it was quiet enough for contemtion since it was a


    weekday - especially around the secluded vis where one could hear insects chirping away into


    the night sky...


    It was peaceful there - perfect for deep thinking...


    Moon Mountain was only an hour or so away from Kurima; it was one of thergest holiday resorts


    nearby situated against moonlit skies during daytime while offering tranquil coolness at nightfall...


    Ranita sat on the balcony watching sunset before returning inside feeling dispirited once more.


    This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Her phone rang again after she was lost in thought: there were over ten missed calls including


    Dn''s but mostly they were from Brendon who used to spend most of their time together even if


    they weren''t physically together due to workmitments; asionally they would call each other


    ormunicate via email through Caleb who acted as their messenger most times...


    This was probably the first time that Brendon had called so many times without getting any


    response from Ranita!


    Did he want revenge because Shannon felt wronged? This vague suspicion made her heart ache


    horribly!


    Just then... the phone rang again! It was Brendon calling once more!


    Ranita hesitated before answering the call. A deep, unhappy voice of a man came through the


    receiver, "Ranita, where are you?"


    "What''s up?" Ranita lowered her eyes and spoke in a t tone.


    Brendon''s breathing became heavier. After several seconds of silence, he said, "Where are you? I''ll


    come pick you up."


    Ranita pursed her lips and took a while to respond. "I''m out for some fresh air. I''ll be back in a


    couple of days. There aren''t any projects that require my presence these days."


    "If you want to stay at my ce, feel free to do so. If not, go back to Bouldend Mansion."


    There was silence on the other end of the phone.


    Ranita didn''t say anything either.


    After an unknown amount of time had passed, Ranita couldn''t hold it in anymore and pouted as she


    said, "There''s nothing else left for me to say. I''m hanging up now."


    "Ranita! Where are you?" Brendon persistently asked.


    Was it really that important where she was? She had already agreed to return by his side even


    though he loved someone else and wanted his freedom - what more did he want from her? Why did


    he still hurt her?


    All Ranita wanted was for them both to draw clear boundaries between each other.


    "Even if you don''t tell me where you are now," Brendon continued speaking stubbornly, "I will find


    out eventually. It''s just a matter of time."


    With that said, Ranita hung up the phone.


    Let him search all he wanted! Before Brendon found her, she could hide away for some more time!


    Just after hanging up with him, Eve called.


    "Where have you gone off to, Ranita? Dn has been looking everywhere for you but can''t seem to


    get hold of you. He is getting worried!"


    She didn''t hide anything from her best friend, Eve.


    "I just came here for a two-day rest. I''ll be back in two days'' time." Ranita lowered her eyshes,


    and her facecked color. It was obvious that she wasn''t feeling too good emotionally.


    Eve sighed deeply, "It''s good to go rx at the resort for a couple of days and take your mind off


    things."


    However, Ranita didn''t expect that when she was about to sleep, the doorbell suddenly rang!


    Was Brendon so quick toe this way?

 Chapter 144 Seduction

    Chapter 144 Seduction


    Chapter 144 Seduction


    Ranita felt uneasy.


    She feared that she wouldn''t have an answer if Brendon questioned her again.


    "You..." The door opened, and Dn''s handsome face appeared. His eyes curved into a smile as he


    greeted her, "It''s me, Rani! Let me in! I''m exhausted!"


    "Howe you''re here?" Her emotions wereplicated. After letting out a sigh of relief, she felt


    disappointed again. She felt cheap and pathetic.


    Ranita kept her eyes downcast, daring not look at Dn directly.


    "Eve is worried about you, and so am I. So we decided to get her that I shoulde over and keep


    an eye on you!" Dn chuckled twice, having a good mood. "Tomorrow, I''ll take you to Moon


    Mountain. There''s a reservoir up there. The view is quite beautiful."


    For peace and solitude, Ranita stayed alone in a detached vi. There were extra rooms avable


    for Dn too.


    Ranita avoided Brendon, not wanting to let herself get lost in thought. But who would have thought


    that she would be thinking about him all night long? She missed his warm embrace and the


    comforting feeling of his breath on her skin.


    Bouldend Mansion.


    Shannon brought a cup of coffee into the study. "Brendon, why aren''t you resting yet? You need to


    take care of yourself even when you''re busy with work," Shannon said softly as she leaned over


    towards Brendon''s side.


    "I made this hand-ground coffee for you, Brendon. Try it."


    She was wearing a white off-the-shoulder pajama set with delicate straps revealing her slender


    shoulders. The edges were lined withce and the pants were short, showing off her long and slim


    legs. She even sprayed some perfume on herself to add an extra touch of allure.


    The scent wafted over to Brendon, causing him to slightly furrow his brows. Out of the corner of his


    eye, he saw one strap on Shannon''s shoulder suddenly snap off and part of her white pajamas


    slipped down.


    "Oops... I''m sorry..." Shannon blushed as she looked at Brendon innocently while tugging at her


    cor. "I didn''t mean for it to break like that..."


    Shannon shyly twisted around a few times before identally brushing against him again.


    "Brendon," the woman''s hand rested on his shoulder while misty eyes looked up at him


    suggestively.


    "Shannon!" Brendon grabbed hold of her hand gently before pushing it away from himself. "It''s


    gettingte now. Go back and rest."


    "Brendon..." Shannon''s eyes turned red in an instant as she pitifully gazed up at him like a helpless


    little creature who had been bullied by someone else.


    Brendon softened up slightly but still refused because he simply didn''t want anything more than just


    friendship between them - nothing beyond that! His feelings towards Shannon could only be


    described as childhood sweethearts rather than romantic love interests.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Shannon, there is something I need to tell you..." Before he could finish speaking though,


    Brendon''s phone rang.


    He picked up the phone and answered, "Hello."


    "Mr Stuart! We found Miss Bowman; she is currently staying at Moon Mountain Resort," Caleb


    paused briefly before asking, "Do you need me to send you there?"


    "No thanks. I''ll go myself!" As soon as he finished speaking into the phone, Brendon headed out


    without looking back or saying goodbye.


    Shannon watched the taillights of the departing car and stamped her foot in frustration. She had


    lowered her pride and actively tried to seduce him, so why was Brendonpletely ignoring her?


    Did Brendon even care about her at all?


    Ranita had only managed to fall asleep in the early hours of the morning. Just as dawn broke, her


    internal clock woke her up again. She didn''t call Dn, but changed into casual clothes and went for


    a walk.


    The environment of this resort was great. Walking on the road, she can hear the crisp sound of


    birds singing. In the middle, there was an artificialke. Ranita took a walk in the morning light and


    watched as theke turned golden. She breathed in fresh air and her mood became extremely


    beautiful.


    In her peripheral vision, she saw a figure walking towards her.

 Chapter 145 Date

    Chapter 145 Date


    Chapter 145 Date


    Like a gust of wind, he suddenly appeared.


    Ranita saw Brendon clearly in the backlight. He was wearing casual clothes with shorts that showed


    off his strong legs. His body was tall and straight like a pine tree, with handsome features but no


    expression on his face except for sweat beads on his forehead indicating he had just finished


    running and was feeling hot.


    Looking at Brendon made Ranita''s heart sink like a stone thrown into water, causing ripples to form.


    "Ranita!" Brendon''s voice was cool like morning dew - damp and chilly. The shadow cast by him


    blocked out the sunlight as he stared at her with his dark eyes.


    Brendon arrivedte at night but when he saw Dn''s car parked outside their vi door, all warmth


    left him instantly leaving him cold to his core.


    What kind of rxation trip was this? It was all lies! This bad woman obviously came out secretly to


    date some man! Brendon sat in the car for over an hour before finally checking into another vi.


    He tossed and turned all night long while feeling like his heart was burning up from within; unable to


    sleep until dawn broke when he went out for a run.


    "Good morning..." Ranita pursed her lips tightly not knowing what else to say after disappearing so


    suddenly yesterday. Brendon must be angry.


    "Why did youe here suddenly?" Brendon looked askance at her with cold tone, "Isn''t it better


    resting at home?"


    "Just wanted to take a walk." Ranita lowered her eyes subconsciously taking two steps back, "Mr


    Stuart... if there isn''t anything else, I''ll leave now."


    "Ranita!" Suddenly she felt him grab hold of wrist tightly; squeezing hard until it turned red from


    pain, "You don''t want stay home yet you want go dating Dn?"


    Ranita felt bitter inside.


    She struggled free from his grip, calmly saying, "Mr. Stuart, do you have any other questions?"


    "Mr. Stuart, we are already divorced - strangers who have gone our separate ways down different


    roads - who I am seeing shouldn''t matter much."


    "I''m single now," she continued, "I''m an adult capable of being responsible for my own actions."


    Ranita''s heart ached with every word she spoke.


    "Ranita!" Brendon growled lowly, his dark eyes now tinged with red, like an angry lion about to


    pounce. He took two steps closer and trapped Ranita against the railing, his powerful body pressing


    down on her and causing her to feel breathless.


    Cold sweat dripped down Ranita''s back as she felt a sharp pain in her lower abdomen.


    "Say it again, Ranita," Brendon demanded angrily. How could this woman leave his bed only to go


    on vacation with another man?


    Brendon was consumed by anger and couldn''t think straight. "Do you really need another man that


    badly? To degrade yourself like this?" he spat out.


    "Brendon!" Ranita couldn''t believe what she was hearing and kicked him in frustration, but it was


    more of a tickle than anything else.


    Brendon''s mind suddenly cleared as he realized what he had said.


    "Get out of here!" Ranita bit her lip hard as she pushed him away forcefully before turning around to


    leave. Tears were threatening to spill over from the corners of her eyes.


    She scolded herself for arguing with such a jerk. After all, wasn''t she just as foolish for getting


    involved with him? She held back the tears that were burning hot behind her eyelids.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

 Chapter 146 He Is Responsible

    Chapter 146 He Is Responsible


    Chapter 146 He Is Responsible


    As she walked away quickly from Brendon, the dull ache in her lower abdomen turned into sharp


    cramps due to fear and anxiety.


    Ranita was extremely frightened, so she began walking even faster.


    "Dn..." Halfway there, she couldn''t hold on any longer. She leaned on the railing, gasping for air,


    and trembling fingers fumbled in her pocket to retrieve her phone, preparing to call Dn.


    After a few beeps, her phone was suddenly taken away.


    Ranita looked up and saw Brendon with a dark expression, ending her call, then he bent down and


    lifted her off her feet.


    Startled, Ranita instinctively grabbed his shoulder. "What are you doing?"


    "I''m taking you back!" Brendon''s tone was authoritative, and he carried her with a determined stride,


    already covering several paces.


    Still angry, Ranita protested, "Put me down! I can walk by myself! I don''t need to trouble you, Mr.


    Stuart!"


    "Mr. Stuart?" Brendon gritted his teeth and snorted, "Ranita, you''re so hypocritical. Now you''re all


    ''Mr. Stuart,'' but in bed, you weren''t..."


    What kind of nonsense was his?


    "Brendon, shut up!" Ranita''s eyes widened with anger, and the tears that had been building up in


    her eyes began to blur her vision. Her cheeks were slightly pink from frustration, and she looked like


    a Persian cat that had been wronged - pitiful yet adorable.


    Brendon''s heart itched with desire. He wanted nothing more than to grab Ranita and kiss her


    deeply.


    He pursed his lips and asked sarcastically, "Ha! Wasn''t I telling the truth?"


    Ranita was so embarrassed that she punched him in the chest with her fists. "Put me down! I can


    walk by myself..."


    Brendon interrupted her, saying firmly, "I''ll take care of you since I''m the one who made you angry!"


    Ha!


    This jerk only cared about how he had just upset her!


    After finishing his sentence, Brendon looked Ranita up and down before she suddenly clung tightly


    to his neck out of fear. She red at him angrily and asked in a voice full of twists and turns, "What


    are you doing?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Brendon''s heart grew even hotter.


    "It seems like you''ve lost weightpared to before," he said coldly while pausing for a moment


    before adding sourly, "You shouldn''t be hanging around Dn anymore. He doesn''t know how to


    take care of you properly. You''ve only been away from me for a few days now but look at how


    skinny you''ve be."


    The more Brendon spoke, the more frustrated he felt inside because he''d taken such good care of


    Ranita over these past three years - making sure she was always healthy-looking with beautiful skin


    - almost like an elegant Persian cat.


    Now someone else was reaping all those benefits...


    "Brendon," Ranita retorted furiously while pushing against his chest. She could feel his warmth as


    well as strength through his thin shirt after their brief contact. "My weight loss has nothing to do with


    Dn."


    It was because she was pregnant with someone else''s baby... it had nothing to do with innocent


    Dn!


    The real culprit here was Brendon himself!


    "And besides," she continued while still pushing against him. "Put me down. I don''t want anything


    else from you right now."


    Ranita pushed at his chest, and with the touch of her hand on his thin shirt, she immediately felt the


    warmth of the man''s body and his powerful presence.


    "If you don''t want to talk to me, then don''t. I''ll just drop you off and leave," Brendon, feeling


    embarrassed, didn''t n to keep pursuing Ranita''s cold demeanor. He knew he had misspoken


    earlier.


    "No, I''m afraid someone might see and get the wrong idea!" Ranita replied.


    Upon hearing this, Brendon stopped in his tracks. His jaw tightened, and his voice was filled with


    grit, "Afraid Dn might get the wrong idea?"


    "Haha! I''ve done plenty with you. If he''s going to nitpick, there would be countless


    misunderstandings!" She emphasized the word ''done.''


    People often said Brendon was as cold as ice, quiet and reserved, but that was only when Brendon


    didn''t want to talk. When discussing business matters, Brendon''s mouth could be quite nimble. And


    now, with one sentence, Ranita''s mind was so clouded by anger that she couldn''t remember


    anything.

 Chapter 147 Stirred Up

    Chapter 147 Stirred Up


    Chapter 147 Stirred Up


    "Brendon!" Ranita''s head was spinning with anger, and she didn''t want to talk to him anymore. "I


    don''t want to talk to you!"


    "You need to put me down right now!"


    Ranita''s chest rose and fell as her curves pressed against him, soft and hot like feathers brushing


    past, leaving a trail of indescribable ripples.


    Brendon felt an itch in his heart, inappropriate thoughts creeping in like cracks trying to break free.


    "Don''t move around! If I let go now and you get hurt, it won''t be my fault!" Brendon paused for a


    moment before sighing. "You had a conflict with Shannon and Holly yesterday?"


    The topic changed abruptly.


    Ranita stiffened her body and remained silent for a while before saying coolly, "Not really."


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


    It was Shannon who started the trouble.


    "Your car ident has nothing to do with Shannon. Don''t me her."


    me? That word hit hard.


    "Did Shannone crying to you? What did she say?" Ranita pursed her lips, no longer submissive


    as before. She raised an eyebrow mockingly.


    Acting weak or pitiful was one of the tricks that worked on him.


    Brendon looked at her with lowered eyes.


    "I investigated it myself. Your car ident was an ident... It really has nothing to do with


    Shannon. Don''t hold any grudges against her." He continued speaking but his exnation wasn''t


    convincing enough.


    Ranita''s heart felt heavy as if filled with cotton wool; breathing became difficult for her too.


    She kept quiet without saying anything else.


    "I''m here now so please put me down," said Ranita from afar when Brendon finally released himself


    from holding onto Ranita tightly earlier on.


    Brendon sneered slightly as he asked sarcastically, "Afraid Dn will see us?"


    "Dn is my good friend. He is friendly but sometimes impulsive too. If he offended you in any way,


    please don''t take it personally," replied Ranita repeating what Brendon had said earlier verbatim.


    Brendon felt both angry and suffocated by this response.


    "Fine then! I''m leaving!" With that said, Brendon put Ranita down then turned around, quickly


    walking away from there without looking back once.


    "Ranita! Why are you up so early?" Dn yawned whileing out looking for her, " Your face


    looks red? Are you feeling unwell somewhere?"


    Ranita realized what was happening and forced a smile. "Dn, I''m fine! Maybe I just walked too


    fast. I''m a little tired and want to go back to rest."


    "Then let''s go back quickly!" Dn pulled Ranita back and quickly poured her a ss of warm


    water. "Drink some water and rest in your room for a while. Breakfast will be delivered soon, I''ll call


    you."


    She was indeed a little tired.


    Ranita went back to her room and slumped on the sofa, staring nkly at the white window curtains


    next to her that were blown by the wind. The mottled sunlight shone on her earlobe, making it red in


    no time.


    But Ranita didn''t even notice it.


    On the diagonally opposite second-floor balcony, Brendon leaned against the railing while looking


    down after taking his shower.


    Moon Mountain had high terrain so there was plenty of morning light already shining through.


    Brendon''s eyes were slightly squinted due to its brightness but his gaze remained fixed on one spot


    - that fluttering white curtain which revealed only part of her chin with its skin tone and pink lips.


    Brendon couldn''t see very clearly, but he had already formed a vivid image of her in his mind - her


    lips, nose, eyes, and those ears that turned red at the slightest touch. He couldn''t be more familiar


    with her.


    Brendon was a businessman.


    Ending the marriage, he paid alimony, and everyone went their separate ways. As for the


    rtionship within the marriage, it was consensual, and both enjoyed it.


    He thought he had it all figured out, but now, the situation had caught him off guard.


    They say time is magic; it can subtly change many things. He had initially believed that Stuart''s


    Corp wouldn''t be a big deal without Ranita. In the end, Brendon realized that it wasn''t Stuart''s Corp


    that he couldn''t be without, but rather, it was her - Ranita.


    He had fallen for Ranita.

 Chapter 148 Be Obedient

    Chapter 148 Be Obedient


    Chapter 148 Be Obedient


    The sun became warmer as time passed by.


    Ranita took another nap until she woke up past eleven o''clock.


    Dn suddenly needed to go back Kurima for something important so he left behind a note, asking


    her take two more days off while he would take care of everything else about Eve.


    While pouring herself some water, Ranita called Dn immediately afterwards.


    "Why didn''t you wake me up?" Her voice sounded nasal due having just woken up; soft yet groggy


    at the same time...


    Dn chuckled over phone before answering, "You haven''t been resting welltely so when I saw


    how soundly you slept this morning, I decided not wake you up."


    After pausing briefly, Dn continued speaking again, "Moon Mountain has great scenery plus


    staying here isfortable too ¨C rx yourself properly, okay? But don''t forget about answering


    your phone though - both Eve and myself will worry otherwise."


    Ranite fell silent for awhile before replying with an "okay" followed by an apology saying, "I won''t


    forget next time."


    Ranita had not been in a good mood the previous day, which had led to her impulsive decision to


    leave. It had even caused Dn toe looking for herte at night. Adults shouldn''t act so


    recklessly.


    "I didn''t mean to me you. Rest up and wait for me to finish my work, and I''lle to meet you


    right away," Dn said.


    Ranita chuckled softly. If Dn knew that Brendon was also at Moonlight Mountain, he probably


    wouldn''t have spoken so calmly.


    There was a restaurant in the resort. Ranita chose a seat by the window, and just as she took a few


    bites of her meal, someone sat down across from her.


    "Have you ordered yet?" Brendon inquired.


    "Today is a workday, Mr. Stuart, aren''t you supposed to be busy?" Ranita replied, her voice icy.


    Brendon handed her a ss of water. "Still angry?"


    Ranita''s hand paused, and she looked at Brendon with a subtle expression. "What''s there to be


    angry about?"


    "If you''re not angry anymore, thene back with meter. Your injury hasn''t healed, and I can''t


    leave you alone here," Brendon said. He had a meeting in the afternoon and should have left by


    now.


    Caleb had called several times already.


    "I''m not a child. There''s no reason to worry about me," Ranita replied. She wasn''t particrly


    moved by this sudden disy of concern. She felt weighed down by it.


    He was trying to appease her for a reason.


    "Ranita, listen to me!" Brendon stared at her, his emotions surging, bordering on anger.


    In the past, Ranita used to listen to him. She was obedient, she tried to please him, she was


    cautious, and she never stood against him. But look at what she had gained. She was still disliked


    by the people at Bouldend Mansion and abandoned by Brendon.


    Ranita didn''t want to be like that anymore.


    "I''m currently on vacation. I''ll go back whenever I want. I''m full." Ranita got up and left.


    She returned to her vi and was about to check the materials Chris had sent when the doorbell


    rang.


    She knew exactly who it was without having to guess. Ranita acted as if she hadn''t heard and didn''t


    go to open the door.


    After some time, Ranita suddenly heard a thud from the balcony. She peeked out and found herself


    locking eyes with Brendon, who had just climbed over the railing.


    There were a few gray stains on his white shirt, making him look a bitical.


    Ranita''s heart softened. "You''re an adult, and you''re climbing over railings? The resort staff must


    have seen you. They''ll call the police for sure."


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Standing tall and slender, the man turned his head, and a hint of sadness suddenly appeared on his


    face. He said, "If you won''t open the door, I''ll have to find another way."


    "Why didn''t you just pick the lock, then?"


    "I think there are no handy tools."


    After Brendon washed his hands, he sat down across from her. "Ranita, don''t be stubborn. Come


    back with me."

 Chapter 149 Testing

    Chapter 149 Testing


    Chapter 149 Testing


    "Brendon, you''re the one being stubborn! You can''t spend your whole day here when you''re such a


    big boss!" Ranita knew how busy Brendon was.


    "Ranita..." Brendon frowned, feeling a bit helpless.


    Brendon knew that Ranita was stubborn but he didn''t expect her to be this obstinate. Now she


    wasn''t even listening to him anymore.


    Seeing the man''s dark expression, Ranita softened her tone and said, "I just want to rest here for


    two days and then I''ll go back."


    "As for my wound, as long as I apply the medicine on time it''ll be fine."


    Brendon remained silent for a while before changing his mind and saying, "Then I''ll stay here with


    you for two days too. Recently I''ve been pretty tired so this is also an opportunity for me to rest."


    Ranita''s mood wasplicated. "Suit yourself!" she replied curtly.


    She busied herself with her work but soon noticed that Brendon kept looking at her.


    "Do I have something on my face?"


    "No..." Brendon''s thin lips were long and his voice low.


    Putting down her pen, Ranita leaned against the table and asked him sideways, "Then why are you


    looking at me? If you have nothing else to do then go take a nap."


    Brendon leaned back on the sofa while observing Ranita who wore simple casual clothes with loose


    hair tied behind in an easygoing manner; Her facial features looked pale yet intellectual which gave


    off somezy charm.


    When working, she dressed professionally more often than not.


    At home however she would wearfortable clothes without any frills or fancies; She wouldn''t


    dress up like Shannon who always looked ethereal or seductive in whatever outfit she wore. She


    liked things clean like a fluffy white cloud; Soft andfortable.


    "Don''t look at me like that!" The heat rose in Ranitas neck from being stared at by him again.


    Bringing up old issues he asked, "Do you not like Shannon living in Bouldend Mansion?"


    Ranita''s throat went dry before answering tentatively, "If I say that I don''t like it, will you ask


    Shannon to move out?"


    Having yed quail-like games all these years, Ranita''s heart couldn''t let go of itpletely yet. If


    Brendon agreed, she would consider taking another step forward...


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Why?" He countered instead, pushing aside what had been brought up earlier. Ranita felt


    somewhat uneasy. It took quite some time before finally gathering enough courage, "If you really


    stay here for two days, I''ll tell you why."


    Brendon''s thoughts drifted away just as his phone rang abruptly.


    He went to the balcony to answer the phone, tapping his fingers on the railing as he spoke in a low


    voice, "Caleb, you''ll attend this afternoon''s meeting for me. And cancel or postpone all my


    appointments until tomorrow."


    "Mr. Stuart, is Miss Bowman noting back?" Caleb found Ranita''s location and knew that


    Brendon was probably on the Moon Mountain.


    "She wants to stay here for a couple of days." Brendon paused and nced at Ranita who was


    quietly working at her desk before turning back to Caleb. "Caleb, do you think Shannon is not


    suitable to live in Bouldend Mansion?"


    Caleb was startled.


    Why would he ask such an explosive question?! He was just a small assistant!


    "Well... Mr. Stuart, has something happened?" Caleb cleared his throat and asked carefully.


    Actually, Caleb had never thought that Brendon would answer him but unfortunately he did,


    "Yesterday Shannon and Holly had an unpleasant incident with Ranita. She doesn''t want Shannon


    living in Bouldend Mansion."


    "Hehe... it''s understandable! After all, you and Miss Bowman are still considered husband and wife


    while she is so clingy. I think Miss Bowman should also mind it."


    Does Ranita really care?

 Chapter 150 Acting Cute

    Chapter 150 Acting Cute


    Chapter 150 Acting Cute


    Brendon suddenly wanted to smoke.


    He wasn''t addicted but when there were asions where smoking seemed necessary he would


    have one or two cigarettes.


    "She never told me about this." Beforehand, Ranita had been extremely obedient; she acted like his


    virtuous wife who took care of everything including work which meant that he didn''t need to worry


    about anything else too much.


    Maybe because she came too easily so she wasn''t valued enough by him?


    "Miss Bowman seems quiet but actually quite strong-willed." Pausing briefly, Caleb remembered


    something else, "Mr. Stuart, there''s something I''d like to report; those things you gave Miss


    Bowman before have been entrusted by herwyer for sale..."


    In the divorce alimony, he didn''t provide much cash to Ranita; instead, he gave her real estate


    properties that can appreciate in value, along with somepany stocks.


    When converted, the total was worth several million, which was more than enough to ensure


    Ranita''s financial security for the rest of her life, so she won''t have to worry about her livelihood.


    "All of them?"


    "Yes! A few days ago I attended a dinner party where Isaac Carter from Electric Technology


    mentioned it. He said that previously he had coveted the Clifgough Ind vi very much but finally


    someone put it up for sale so immediately bought it..." exined Caleb regarding his source of


    information.


    "That real estate is still appreciating in value, it''s a shame to sell it now! Is Miss Bowman


    experiencing any financial difficulties?"


    Does Ranita need money?


    She probably doesn''t.


    It''s said that beautiful women like to dress up, and Ranita was also a beauty, but she didn''t have a


    strong materialistic desire for external things. Her clothes were not cheap but not too expensive


    either. The same went for her bags and jewelry; she just mixed and matched the same few items.


    Unlike Shannon, who had different designer brands in her closet every day of the year, with


    expensive jewelry, bags and shoes galore.


    Inparison, Ranita was very frugal.


    But she was not cheap; on the contrary, she had good taste. Even if the clothes she chose were not


    that expensive, they looked very elegant when worn.


    "Those things belong to her once given to her; she can do whatever she wants with them!" After


    pausing for a moment Brendon asked, "Did you get any results from what I asked you to


    investigate?"


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


    When this matter was mentioned, Caleb became speechless again.


    "I just received it and will send it to you immediately." Who would have thought that Brendon would


    ask him to investigate Ranita... especially about interpersonal rtionships six years ago between


    men and women?


    Caleb received the report but resisted his gossiping heart from opening it up right away.


    "Mr. Stuart do you have any other orders?"


    "You''re free right now so go check if Shannon needs anything at Bouldend Mansion... there''s


    nothing else."


    After hanging up the phone, Brendon looked at Ranita through the ss. This woman was indeed


    quite strong-willed with ideas but kept everything inside of herself.


    Her heart... was still very hard.


    "Ding Dong!"


    Just then his phone rang twice indicating he had new mailing in.


    It was Caleb sending over an investigation report on Ranita''s interpersonal rtionships six years


    ago.


    Brendon hesitated for a few seconds before opening up the email.


    Brendon stayed on the balcony for a while and then returned inside.


    Ranita hadn''t slept well, flipping through a few pages of documents. Her eyelids were in a battle,


    making her head bob like a chick pecking at grain. Suddenly, a broad hand gripped the back of her


    neck. The skin was gently pinched, almost like it had caught her soft heart. Ranita instantly became


    wide awake.


    "You... let go!" Ranita nced at him from the corner of her eye, her pupils filled with tired


    confusion. Her slightly arched body looked like a cat whose nape had been gently grasped.


    Brendon leaned closer, his palm still in ce, gently applying pressure.


    "If you''re tired, go sleep on the bed."


    "I''m not tired! Let go... If you don''t let go, I''ll hit you!" The woman gritted her teeth and grumbled,


    though it didn''t sound like a threat, more like a yfulint.

 Chapter 151 Ideal In The Human World

    Chapter 151 Ideal In The Human World


    Chapter 151 Ideal in the Human World


    Brendon couldn''t help but smirk. When he smiled, his face was as bright and beautiful as the plum


    blossoms that bloomed in winter. Ranita was stunned.


    "What are you staring at?" Brendon reached out and flicked her forehead, not hard enough to hurt


    but enough to make it itch. "Am I really that good-looking?"


    What an arrogant guy! But Brendon really was handsome. He was the kind of man that every girl


    dreamed of, just like Ranita''s ideal man.


    "You''re very handsome," Ranita admitted honestly with a smile.


    Brendon raised an eyebrow and asked teasingly, "So am I more handsome than Dn?"


    Ranita pursed her lips. There was noparison between them.


    Silence filled the air until Brendon closed the files forcefully with a cold expression on his face. "Go


    rest now! You can look at themter when you''re well-rested."


    "If you want to rest then go ahead," Ranita said before she could finish her sentence when Brendon


    bent down pretending to carry her in his arms. "Do you want me to carry you?"


    Ranita didn''t want him to do so and pushed away his hand. "Okay! I''ll go rest!"


    The twoy down for their afternoon nap with their own thoughts running through their minds.


    Brendon probably didn''t sleep well because he fell asleep next to her quickly, his slender palm


    resting on her waist. This intimate yet domineering gesture made Ranita''s heart flutter. What exactly


    did she mean to him? Was she someone who could be discarded whenever he wanted?


    Ranita thought: It would be better if everything were clear-cut so they wouldn''t have this torturous


    rtionship anymore. They were already divorced yet still entangled like this. Ranita had grown


    tired of it all.


    She turned over a few times before falling asleep next to Brendon who had already fallen asleep.


    His hand still rested on her waist. The thought made Ranita''s emotions churn.


    "Ranita! Wake up!"


    She woke up groggily when she heard someone calling out for her. The light outside had turned into


    a soft golden color. It must have been around three or four in the afternoon by now.


    "Don''t sleep anymore or else we won''t be able sleep tonight!" Brendon''s low voice sounded


    pleasant.


    Ranita''s eyes blinked slowly as she looked at him. Her fingers were being held by him tightly.


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


    "What time is it?" Her voice sounded drowsy.


    "It''s almost four. I''ll take you for a walk on Moon Mountain." His voice trailed off as he handed over


    some clean clothes.


    Ranita''s head felt dizzy from exhaustion, and tears welled up in the corners of eyes due fatigue.


    Before they could fall, Brendon''s fingers gently wiped them away.


    Ranita froze for a moment. It took several seconds before she realized what happened.


    She pushed him away, didn''t look at him directly, and ran into bathroom wearing slippers. Cold


    water sshed onto her face, Rantia became much more awake than before.


    After sleeping for too long during her nap, Ranita felt a bit dizzy as she yawned her way out of the


    room. Brendon had made her a cup of coffee.


    Since finding out she was pregnant, she had been drinking less coffee.


    "Thank you, I''ll just have water," Ranita said.


    Brendon held the coffee cup and looked at Ranita. "You used to love drinking it."


    Brendon was a workaholic and so was Ranita. To keep their energy up, coffee was always


    beneficial.


    "I don''t love it anymore," she replied.


    "Okay then! Let me pour you some water." Brendon didn''t say much more and went to pour water in


    an especially gentle manner.


    It seemed like Brendon was taking care of her with great seriousness and attention to detail.


    Ranita''s thoughts were all over the ce.


    "The air on Moon Mountain is good for you; breathing in negative ions is beneficial," Brendon said


    as he led Ranita up the mountain path that wasn''t really a climb since they were staying at a resort


    built halfway up the mountain. They only needed to walk along some stairs for about ten minutes


    before reaching the top of the mountain.


    As evening approached, sunlight wasn''t as intense anymore;bined with Moon Mountain''s


    naturally cool temperature, fragrant nts brushed against them lightly in soft breezes.

 Chapter 152 Feeling Jealous

    Chapter 152 Feeling Jealous


    Chapter 152 Feeling Jealous


    The environment was veryfortable but Ranita didn''t feel rxed; instead, she stared nkly at


    his broad back.


    "Dong!"


    Suddenly, Ranita bumped into Brendon''s back.


    "I''m sorry!" She realized what happened and apologized awkwardly.


    "Walk properly."


    Brendon towered above, gazing down at her, with a faint light highlighting his fine eyebrows, giving


    him a serene and lovely appearance. His Adam''s apple bobbed as he swallowed, and his voice was


    lower than before as he said, "Give me your hand."


    Ranita looked up at him in surprise, "Are you going to hold my hand?"


    "You''re walking absentmindedly, I''m afraid you''ll fall down." He found an excuse while gently


    pinching one of her fingers which hesitated before being caught by him anyway.


    "Let''s go!" Brendon held her fingers, his fingers long and warm. They warmed her heart, and it


    became gentle and cozy. His tenderness was something she could never bear to resist.


    "Alright..." Ranita followed his steps. Brendon walked more slowly than before, as if matching her


    pace, asionally saying a few words. Ranita responded lightly and quietly.


    Eventually, the conversation somehow circled back to her studio, and Ranita pursed her lips, her


    voice sounding somewhat down as she said, "Brendon, I''ve quit the studio."


    Brendon stopped walking abruptly because he knew exactly what that meant, "You''re not nning


    on staying in Kurima?"


    Ranita pursed lips trying hard not show any emotion then forced out a faint smile asking rhetorically,


    "Why would you think that?"


    "Will you stay in Kurima?"


    Her decision to stay or leave depended on him.


    But in the situation where she had to choose one, it seemed that the result of her not staying was


    already predetermined.


    Ranita looked at Brendon, hoping to find a hint of reluctance on his face. But he remained calm and


    collected as ever.


    "I don''t think whether I stay or leave Kurima would affect you," she said.


    Brendon continued to stare at her with his white shirt and ck suit pants, looking like a piece of


    fine jade stone. His lips were naturally colored, like rose petals - bright and vivid. The top two


    buttons of his shirt were unbuttoned, revealing his corbone when the wind blew.


    He was cool and handsome all at once.


    Ranita couldn''t help but be infatuated again.


    "How do you know it won''t affect me?" Brendon said softly, sounding as if he had lost someone dear


    to him deep in his heart.


    Ranita''s heart was stirred up by this remark.


    "Losing you would be a loss for Stuart''s Corp." However, the next sentence threw her heart into an


    icy pit, "You''ve helped me a lot these past few years."


    Ranita blinked slightly before turning around and walking forward. "I''ve been working every day for


    these past few years. I''m tired. I thought this would be a good opportunity for me to take some time


    off."


    "Is Greece your destination? Why did you choose there..." Brendon naturally shifted the topic back


    onto Ranita''s trip.


    Brendon followed behind her but being taller than her allowed him to see down onto the nape of her


    neck when she lowered it.


    Ranita''s skin was delicate too; under illumination from light sources it gave off an enchanting misty


    feeling that made Brendon unable resist wanting reach out and hold onto it.


    "I like Greece so I want go there."


    Do you really like Greece? Is it because you love that ce or because someone special is there?


    A sour feeling suddenly rose up within Brendon''s chest.


    He had read through all those investigation reports before ¨C Ranita met Dn seven years ago


    while Steve only briefly crossed paths with them before they got married; Chris didn''t even meet


    them until after their marriage which didn''t match up with six years ago either...


    So perhaps the person Ranita liked wasn''t even in Kurima?Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 153 Kissing You Again

    Chapter 153 Kissing You Again


    Chapter 153 Kissing You Again


    At the end of the alley, they suddenly emerged into open space.


    Moonlit Mountain had a pleasant environment, with a blue sky and white clouds. Everything bathed


    in the afternoon sunlight was beautiful.


    "Let''s go sit over there," Brendon pulled on her hand leading them towards pavilion atop mountain


    peak.


    Once inside they discovered another couple who were passionately kissing each other making loud


    smacking sounds indicating how difficult separation between them must have been.


    Turning around quickly, Ranita identally bumped into Brendon''s chest causing ears turn red hot,


    "Let''s just head back!"


    Brendon nced at the young couple and grabbed her hand, pulling her back.


    The palms of her hands were warm.


    After walking a few steps, Brendon chuckled softly and said, "Are you so nervous that your palms


    are sweating?"


    "No, it''s hot," Ranita said in a t tone, trying to pull her fingers out of his palm. "Don''t hold hands."


    "The steps here are steep, I''ll hold your hand." Without admiring the scenery, they continued down


    the path. Descending the stairs was hard on their knees and she had injured her ankle before, so


    walking such a long distance was tiring for her.


    "Brendon, I''m a bit tired and want to take a break," Ranita sat on the stone bench by the path, bent


    over and massaging her calves.


    Brendon sat down next to her, his long eyshes drooping as he watched her pounding her legs.


    "Are your legs hurting?"


    "A bit sour."


    "I''ll carry you down." The deep voice fell, and a broad back appeared in front of her. The man turned


    his head and said, "Get on."


    Ranita thought to herself, "I am still his legal wife, so carrying me on his back is only natural.


    Besides, I''m carrying his own child in my belly."


    Ranita rested on his back.


    His shirt was new, with only the scent of crimson fire sandalwood perfume on it.


    Very clean.


    And, it was the gift she gave him during new year.


    Ranita''s heart was filled with excitement.


    "You hold on tight," Brendon said. He held her legs with both hands and lifted them up, while Ranita


    obediently wrapped her arms around his neck.


    Brendon was walking very slowly.


    But carrying a person on his back, his breathing gradually became heavy.


    "I think I''lle down..." Ranita had just finished speaking when the light dimmed and the clear sky


    darkened considerably through the gaps in the trees.


    It was expected to rain.


    "It might rain, I''ll walk faster."


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


    "Um..." Ranita was lying on his back, her gaze following the bumps and dips, but always settling on


    his half-jaw.


    Brendon carried her for the first time.


    Even though her heart was being cut like a knife, she was still happy at this moment.


    As they reached the top of thest step, suddenly it started to rain heavily with a crackling sound!


    Brendon hurriedly carried her and ran towards the vi room, leaving Ranita breathless from the


    jostling. Once they entered the vi room, both of them looked disheveled like wet chickens just out


    of water.


    "Giggle, giggle, giggle!" Ranita couldn''t help butugh.


    Brendon smoothed his messy hair and frowned, "Stillughing!"


    Ranita continued to giggle, not knowing what exactly tickled her funny bone and unable to stop.


    "Ranita, no moreughing," Brendon said as he looped his arm around her waist from behind, "If


    youugh again..." His lips brushed against her neck, his voice soft and husky, "I''m going to bite


    you."


    Ranita pushed his head away, her eyebrows raised yfully as she giggled. "Stop it... it tickles!"


    Brendon leaned in closer, his nose brushing against her skin as he yfully nipped at her with his


    sharp teeth. Ranita twisted and turned, stillughing.


    "Ranita, keepughing and I''ll kiss you," he whispered devilishly into her ear as he grabbed hold of


    her chin and pulled her in for a kiss.

 Chapter 154 Love At First Sight

    Chapter 154 Love At First Sight


    Chapter 154 Love at First Sight


    Buzz!


    Ranita blushed furiously.


    Images from Moon Mountain shed through her mind, making her heart race for no apparent


    reason. Just then, Brendon pressed down on the small of her back with a firm grip.


    His kisses were gentle yet lingering.


    "My clothes are wet. I''m going to change," Ranita said before things got too out of hand. She


    pushed Brendon away and ran into the bathroom.


    Her head was spinning.


    After taking a hot shower, Ranita looked at the empty clothes rack and felt embarrassed! She had


    forgotten to bring in any clothes!


    "Brendon..." she called out quietly while peeking around cautiously but there was no one there to


    answer back. "Brendon?" After waiting for some time without an answer from him, she wrapped


    herself up in a towel and walked out towards the balcony where Brendon was talking on the phone.


    She tiptoed over to her luggage bag hoping not to be noticed by him while searching for something


    else to wear...


    "What are you doing?" Suddenly feeling someone behind her made Ranita jump, which caused her


    hand holding onto her new outfit shake so much that it fell onto the floor.


    Brendon''s gaze roamed over every inch of her from head-to-toe; her skin glistening with water


    droplets along with fragrant scent of orchids emanating off her body.


    "You''re hopeless!" He bent down picked up her dress before handing it over to her saying, "Go put


    your clothes on."


    Ranita pouted slightly while holding onto her cheeks feeling embarrassed by what just happened


    earlier.


    "You were being sneaky yourself so don''t me me." His voice wasn''t loud but she could tell that he


    was teasing her slightly by looking at her eyes filled withughter.


    "I wasn''t..." Ranita didn''t open her eyes, her ears turning even redder than before as she quickly ran


    to the bathroom.


    After getting dressed, Ranita mentally prepared herself and opened the door. Through the crack in


    the door frame, Brendon''s clear and piercing eyes peeked in, like a shooting star across the sky,


    leaving a dazzling brilliance. Six years ago, she had fallen in love with Brendon at first sight, and


    since then, there was no room in her heart for anyone else.


    He wasn''t from Kurima Foreign Studies University, and he would asionally visit his friends. The


    second time she saw him, he was walking on campus with his friends. She watched him from


    above, following him all the way as she stood on the second-floor corridor, secretly stealing nces


    at him through the dense green leaves of ivy.


    He wore a round-necked shirt, and it was a clear night.


    "What''s wrong?" Brendon noticed her staring off into space and pressed down on her head with his


    hand, eyebrows raised. "What are you thinking about?"Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Ranita had seen him affectionately rubbing Shannon''s head before, which made her feel


    ufortable.


    "Nothing..." Ranita pushed away Brendon''s hand and smiled. "Do you need to use the bathroom?"


    "Yeah... I''ll take a shower too."


    Brendon closed the door behind him, and Ranita suddenly realized that his luggage wasn''t here -


    why did he need to shower now? Was he going to be naked?


    Ranita felt a bit uneasy.


    She looked at some information while ncing around. Her heart raced when she heard the door


    creak open.


    "Ranita... can you get me a bathrobe?" His voice sounded cold.


    As expected, Ranita''s ears turned red again as she handed over the bathrobe to the man without


    looking at him directly - even though it was frosted ss that blurred his figure in front of her


    eyesight - making her unable to resist feeling emotional inside herself.


    Taking a deep breath, Ranita threw the bathrobe into his hands then turned around wanting to run


    away. However, Brendon grabbed onto one of her fingers with wet fingers hanging onto hers tightly


    saying, "Wait."


    "What are you doing?" Ranita''s heart beat even faster as if being wrapped by magma; she wanted


    to pull back but couldn''t do so helplessly under such circumstances.

 Chapter 155 Childish

    Chapter 155 Childish


    Chapter 155 Childish


    Her heart raced.


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


    Brendon gently released her hand, grabbed the bathrobe, and quickly opened the door. He lowered


    his head, moving closer to her.


    "Could you take a look? My back is a bit itchy," he said.


    Startled by his approach, Ranita took two steps back. It took her a while to find her voice, and she


    said, "Lower down. I can''t see."


    Brendon bent forward slightly until finally revealing whaty beneath within sight range.


    The bathrobe was tightly wrapped, making it impossible to see anything. Ranita had no choice but


    to reach out and adjust it. It seemed that Brendon had scratched himself a few times, leaving a few


    noticeable nail marks on his back, with some red dots in the middle.


    "It''s so itchy!" Brendon extended his hand, ready to scratch again.


    "Don''t scratch!" Ranita stopped his fingers and said anxiously, "If you scratch it, it''ll only make it


    worse."


    Brendon, with his fingers held by her, turned his head to look at her.


    Ranita''s eyshes drooped, quiet and beautiful. Brendon had a thought and smirked, "Can you


    scratch it lightly for me? It''s really itchy."


    "I brought some ointment. I''ll put some on for you." Ranita had a small first aid kit in her luggage


    with itch-relieving ointment.


    Brendon obedientlyy on the couch, revealing his back. "Hurry up."


    She raised an eyebrow.


    There was a hint of mischievousness in his expression.


    Ranita''s heart melted into a puddle at his teasing.


    "Don''t move, I''ll put some ointment on for you." She squeezed out some onto a cotton swab but as


    soon as she poked him with it, Brendon sat up straight and stared at her with raised eyebrows. "The


    cotton swab is too thick; it hurts my skin."


    "Use your hand!"


    Ranita gritted her teeth and teased him back, "Such a delicate flower!"


    Brendon wasn''t ashamed; instead he pressed down on his eyebrows and smiled back at her. He


    said, "Ranita, are you just realizing this now?"


    Chewing on the teasing and joking words made Ranita feelplicated emotions.


    Brendon might appear cool and sophisticated on the outside, but he was still human, and like


    anyone else, he had some peculiar quirks. For instance, when he got bitten by mosquitoes or other


    small insects, his skin turned red, even more tender than a girl''s.


    When Ranita first married him, there was one night she forgot to close the windows, and the next


    day, Brendon''s neck and arms were all covered in red patches. If it weren''t for the individual bite


    marks that were quite evident, she might have been used of doing something to him.


    "Why are you spacing out again?" Brendon''s voice pulled Ranita out of her memories. She gently


    applied some ointment onto Brendon while whispering softly, "It must be from those bugs we


    encountered when we were hiking earlier today that bit you. Is it still itching?"


    "Itching..." He paused then propped himself up using his chin to look at her, "These bugs are pretty


    fierce; too much itching... can you scratch me please?"


    "You''re itching so much, and still scratching? If I scratch it, it''ll be even more ufortable," Ranita


    scolded him and patted his back.


    Another patch of red appeared.


    "You really hit me?" Brendon blinked slightly and looked a bit aggrieved.


    "Who asked you to talk nonsense!" Ranita turned to get the ointment, and out of the corner of her


    eye, she saw Brendon reaching out. She immediately red at him.


    Raising his hands, Brendon said, "I didn''t move."


    Ranita washed her hands then sat beside him asking softly, "Is it really still itching badly?"


    "Very badly! Can you blow air onto them?"


    Blow air?! Ranita raised an eyebrow.


    His back was tall and broad, with a thinyer of muscles beneath the skin, featuring smooth and


    incredibly explosive lines.


    "Still itchy?" Ranita yfully poked at the small red marks. "You''re such a child."


    Maybe it was herment that provoked him, but Brendon suddenly flipped over and reached out


    to pull Ranita onto the sofa.


    He pressed her down, and her bathrobe fell open, revealing her corbone.


    The look in his eyes was particrly wild.

 Chapter 156 CanT Ask For Too Much

    Chapter 156 Can''T Ask For Too Much


    Chapter 156 Can''t Ask for Too Much


    "Ding Dong!"


    Just then, the doorbell rang.


    Ranita immediately pushed him away and ran to answer the door. Outside stood two groups of


    resort staff - one delivering Brendon''s luggage and the other bringing dinner.


    Brendon carried his suitcase into her room without any objections from Ranita. Soon after, he


    emerged wearing a round-necked home outfit that softened his cold demeanor somewhat. Ranita


    sat at the table and called out to him, "Brendon,e eat."


    "The food may not suit your taste buds but just bear with it," said Ranita as she handed him the


    fork. Brendon took them and sat down next to her in silence as they ate their meal.


    Someone came by shortly after to clear away their dishes.


    After dinner, Brendon suggested taking a walk together, "Now that we''ve eaten, how about I take


    you for a stroll? The scenery here is quite beautiful at night." Pausing briefly before continuing on,


    "You can even see stars from atop the mountain."


    "You''re going up there again? What if you run into bugs..." Before Ranita could finish speaking


    though, Brendon had grabbed hold of her hand and was gently pulling her outside.


    The road was quiet with only rows of trees lining it along with bright streetlights illuminating their


    way forward; their shadows constantly changing shape as they walked slowly ahead together. With


    eyes lowered towards the ground, Ranita watched as he held onto her hand tightly.


    "Brendon..."


    "Look, you can see the stars for real," Brendon suddenly looked up.


    Ranita followed his gaze, and though it wasn''t a sky full of stars, each one shining, they adorned the


    firmament, calming time, as if their state of mind had suddenly changed.


    "Yeah, there are quite a few," Ranita sighed softly, thinking, "This is good enough."


    She couldn''t ask for more, being able to spend time like this with Brendon was already very good.


    They returned to the path leading downhill, and Ranita held his hand. "Don''t go up, it''s tiring."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Alright, then let''s wander around here," Brendon had no intention of insisting on going uphill. He


    strolled with her, speaking softly and casually as they walked.


    Ranita''s mood was still good. "Are you really going to stay with me?" Ranita suddenly remembered


    something and asked Brendon, sounding unsure.


    "You''ll be alone here, and I''m worried about you," Brendon paused for a moment. "Or you could


    come with me?"


    Ranita pursed her lips and smiled, "I''m not going, I like it here."


    Brendon also smiled and looked rxed. "Then I''ll stay here too; it''s been a long time since I took a


    vacation."


    They returned to the cabin after their walk. Ranita sat on the sofa to watch TV, while Brendon went


    to handle some work.


    It was quiet and went ording to n. Ranita felt like they had returned to the time before their


    divorce.


    A littleter, it was time to sleep. The bed wasrge, and Ranita only slept in a small corner until


    Brendon pulled her from behind, holding her in his strong arms and nuzzling her chin.


    The atmosphere was heating up, and Ranita''s heart was racing. Just then, Brendon''s phone rang. It


    was Shannon calling.


    "Can you not answer it?" Ranita''s heart suddenly turned cold.


    "It might be something urgent... just for a minute," Brendon pressed the answer button and spoke


    for a short while before hanging up. He turned to Ranita. "Ranita, Shannon is in some trouble. I may


    have to go back."


    Ranita bit her lip as she looked at him. She knew that if he went, he probably wouldn''te back.


    "I''ll have Calebe here, and you can tell him what you need him to do," Brendon suggested, not


    noticing the disappointment in her eyes.


    Ranita couldn''t help but think, why not send Caleb to Shannon''s instead? Did he have to go there


    himself?

 Chapter 157 Does Not Count

    Chapter 157 Does Not Count


    Chapter 157 Does Not Count


    Strictly speaking, Ranita didn''t have the right to interfere with Brendon''s decision, but she couldn''t


    help feeling reluctant. This reluctance had started as a small spark, but ever since Brendon had


    chased her to the resort, it had grown into a raging fire.


    "Didn''t you say you were going to stay with me?" Ranita clenched her pajamas, creating deep


    creases, mirroring her current state of mind.


    Brendon didn''t look too good. "Ranita, I''m really sorry."


    Ranita didn''t want to hear this sentence; it was too heartbreaking. Brendon put on his shirt, sat on


    the edge of the bed, and covered her with the nket. He tucked her in and told her, "Get some


    rest. Don''t forget to apply the ointment tomorrow, and call me if you need anything."


    His sudden tenderness left Ranita even more upset. She lowered her eyes, and replied calmly, "You


    can go. Don''t keep Miss Murphy waiting."


    Brendon left in a hurry without any luggage. Ranita was now lying on the big bed, tossing and


    turning, unable to sleep. Suddenly, her phone started ringing, and she turned on the light to see that


    it was Eve making a video call.


    "Darling, are you sleeping?" Eve was half-reclining with a pretty, sulky face, the kind you''d make


    when someone owed you a lot of money.


    "Why aren''t you sleeping yet?" Ranita forced a smile, trying to look more awake. "You''re such an


    inconsiderate patient."


    Eve pouted. "What about you? Why aren''t you sleeping?"


    "I was woken up by you," Ranita paused before asking, "why are you calling me sote? Is


    something wrong?"


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


    There was silence on Eve''s end for a few seconds before she spoke again. "Have you seen the


    trending news?"


    "No, what''s going on?" Ranita could already guess it had something to do with Shannon and


    Brendon.


    "Shannon got hit by a car and is at Tranquil Valley Private Hospital... Brendon is with her." Eve


    spoke softly, as if sighing. "I just wanted to let you know so that you don''t go looking at the news


    online."


    "It''s a good thing you''re not in Kurima now, so you don''t have to see Shannon''sining face.


    You can stay at Moon Mountain for a few more days," Eve suggested.


    Shannon was quite the hypochondriac,ining of various aches and pains every day, always


    finding something to be wrong. There was never a day of peace.


    Ranita responded with an acknowledgment.


    "Don''t just say yes, you have to follow through!" Eve clicked her tongue. "I''m afraid you''ll be upset if


    you actually watch it."


    "I''ll be fine." She was used to it by now; her heart felt like it was made of steel and couldn''t be hurt


    easily.


    "Good! Once your divorce from Brendon is finalized, I''ll introduce some handsome guys for you...


    there are plenty of two-legged men out there even if three-legged frogs are hard toe by."


    "Uh-huh... got it." Ranita obediently agreed before chatting for a bit longer with Eve before hanging


    up.


    Shey back down on the bed and scrolled through various apps on her phone until she opened


    Twitter. The top trending topic was "Shannon hospitalized after being hit by car", followed closely by


    "Shannon''s non-celebrity boyfriend"...


    The rest of the topics were all rted as well.


    Each one had high levels of engagement; especially under the topic about Shannon''s boyfriend


    where there were blurry photos but he still looked tall and handsome - definitely someone who


    would turn heads.


    Ranita identallynded on Brendon''s photo while scrolling through them all which caused her


    heartache like someone had pinched it tightly between their fingers.


    Compared to Shannon, she always seemed like the loser - never important enough for promises


    made towards her to hold any weight because they could be broken at any moment without


    consequence.

 Chapter 158 Cramps

    Chapter 158 Cramps


    Chapter 158 Cramps


    Ranita didn''t continue reading anymore; not because she didn''t want to but because she couldn''t


    bear doing so anymore.


    She feared using up all of her courage only for pain beyond measure waiting around every corner


    once again.


    The night enveloped everything around her as Ranita tossed and turned in bed - exhausted but


    unable move while remaining painfully alert mentally speaking.


    Without Brendon, the sound of insects seemed to be more peaceful. The night was heavy with


    dew. Ranita fell into a deep sleep without knowing how much time had passed. In her dream, she


    felt like her legs were soaked in ice water, causing her to constantly curl up from the cold.


    "Hiss..." Suddenly, a sharp pain woke Ranita up from her slumber. She struggled to sit up with an


    expression of extreme pain on her face. Her right calf was cramping up and the muscles felt like


    they were suddenly being crushed, causing indescribable agony that left Ranita unable to move.


    It hurt so much!


    Ranita tried hard to straighten out her leg but it was no use; she copsed onto the bed writhing in


    pain for what felt like an eternity.


    Finally, after enduring through unbearable suffering for what seemed like forever, the pain gradually


    subsided and Ranita''sbored breathing slowed down as well.


    It really hurt too much!


    Panting heavily on the bed as if she had just been pulled out of water; sweat drenched all over her


    back due to intense difort and agony that had consumed every inch of her body.


    Unable to bear it any longer, Ranita called Brendon immediately for help even though it waste at


    night. The phone rang only once before he answered it promptly.


    "Brendon..." Ranita''s voice sounded hoarse and weak from all the excruciating pain she''d been


    experiencing earlier on.


    The next second, Shannon''s sweet voice came through instead, "Rantia? Are you looking for


    Brendon? He just went into shower now!"


    "You must have something urgent if you''re calling Brendon thiste at night," Shannon continued


    speaking in a soft tone full of concern. "I''ll go call him right away."


    Ranita remained silent while listening attentively on other end of line; wondering whether or not


    Brendon would stay by Shannon''s side until midnight?


    "Rantia? Why aren''t you saying anything? Are you angry?" Shannon asked anxiously. "I didn''t mean


    it today... I really did have an ident..."


    "Can you let Brendon stay with me tonight please?" She pleaded softly, "I''m scared... I just want him


    here beside me... Please don''t be mad."


    Although Shannon spoke gently and pitifully throughout their conversation, Ranita couldn''t help but


    feel that each word carried arrogance and conceit within them. Shannon could easily make Brendon


    turn around ande back to her with just one sentence.


    However, Ranita was nothing more than a clown who added atmosphere for the main character.


    She couldn''t help feeling bitter about this realization.


    Ranita suddenly felt cold inside as if made of steel. "No, I''m not angry. Bye." She hung up the phone


    abruptly andy back down in bed. The pain in her calf seemed to be less hurting.


    After hanging up, the corners of Shannon''s mouth curled upward in to a satisfied smile. She quickly


    deleted the call log from Brendon''s phone before cing it on his desk. Then, she rubbed her red


    eyes gently before lying down softly.


    "Didn''t I tell you to sleep already? Why aren''t you asleep yet?" Not long after, Brendon got out of the


    bathroom, his face wrinkled with displeasure.


    "Brendon, I''m scared, I can''t sleep," Shannon said, biting her lip as she reached for Brendon''s hand.


    Brendon discreetly avoided her grasp and adjusted his slightly wrinkled white shirt.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "No need to be afraid. This is a hospital; no one will hurt you here."


    "It was so terrifying. I was just standing there, and suddenly a car rushed at me... If it weren''t for


    Cindy pushing me out of the way in time, I might have... *sniffle*... I''m really scared! I''m afraid I


    won''t see you again..."


    Brendon felt a headacheing on.


    "No one will hurt you here. It''ste, and you need rest," Brendon said. But his thoughts wandered to


    Ranita. He wondered if she had gone to bed and if she was still mad at him.

 Chapter 159 A Heart Of Stone

    Chapter 159 A Heart Of Stone


    Chapter 159 A Heart of Stone


    "Get some rest! I need to go back," Brendon said as he picked up his phone. He had rushed back


    from Moon Mountain to be with Shannon, and now he felt a bit tired.


    "Brendon, please... But I''m scared. Can''t you stay with me?" Shannon bit her lip, her previously pale


    lips now showing signs of indentation. Her eyes looked misty and pitiable, a sight that was difficult to


    resist.


    Brendon nced at his wristwatch.


    It was already past 1 AM. Ranita should be asleep by now, right? Brendon thought about Ranita


    and found himself distracted.


    "Brendon, please... I''m begging you. Can''t you stay?" Shannon''s voice quivered with desperation as


    she saw Brendon lost in thought. Her red-rimmed eyes became even more watery, and her pleading


    expression was irresistible.


    Brendon pursed his lips and reached out to caress Shannon''s head. "I''ll make a call."


    He walked out to the balcony and checked his messages. There was no message or call from


    Ranita.


    "This woman has a heart of stone," Brendon thought.


    "Are you asleep?" Brendonposed a message but deleted it. Ranita usually slept around 11 PM,


    so she probably wouldn''t see the message at this time.


    Brendon called Caleb. "Caleb, where are you?" He had called Caleb when he was on his way back


    to Kurima and asked him to go to Moon Mountain Resort. By now, Caleb should have arrived.


    "I just got to Moon Mountain Resort. It''ste, so I didn''t want to disturb Miss Bowman. I''ll contact her


    in the morning. How is it going on Miss Murphy''s end?" Caleb inquired.


    Brendon pursed his lips.


    He said, "Shannon is stable, but we need to handle the media promptly. Other than that, there''s


    nothing else."


    Brendon didn''t like being talked about too much in public, so any news rted to him would be dealt


    with.


    "I''ve already had the PR department take care of it. But earlier, pictures of you and Miss Murphy


    entering the hospital were leaked by paparazzi. We can only try our best to handle it," he said.


    "Okay, I understand. You can go rest now," Brendon replied with a nod.


    Standing on the balcony with his hair blowing in the wind, Brendon looked up at the beautiful moon


    and felt regretful that he couldn''t share this moment with Ranita''s charming features.


    "Aiya!" Suddenly Shannon screamed out loud.


    Brendon quickly rushed back inside where Shannon was sitting on the floor surrounded by broken


    ss from a shattered cup she dropped while trying to drink water.


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


    "I''m sorry! It wasn''t intentional! I just wanted some water but I lost my grip and fell," Shannon


    sobbed softly as tears streamed down her face.


    "It''s not your fault; it was just one ss that broke! Get up quickly before you get hurt by any of


    these shards!" Brendon reached out his hand to help her up and she leaned into him for support.


    "Thank you so much Brendon. You''re really too good to me!" She bit her lip trying hard not cry


    anymore then smiled sweetly at him saying, "No wonder why I''ve always liked you most since


    childhood days."


    Brendon ordered someone to clean up all the broken pieces from floor then turned back looking at


    Shannon who still stared at him pitifully asking, "Were you calling Ranita just now? Is she still awake


    thiste?"

 Chapter 160 Eyes Red

    Chapter 160 Eyes Red


    Chapter 160 Eyes Red


    Shannon asked tentatively.


    The phone call earlier had been intended to provoke Ranita, but if Ranita were to report it to


    Brendon, she didn''t know how he would react.


    "It''s alreadyte; Ranita should be asleep by now." After pausing briefly, he continued, "I called


    Caleb just now. I suddenly left the resort, and there was no one to take care of Ranita on her side,


    so I asked Caleb to go there."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Shannon felt triumphant in her heart. She knew that she was still the most important person in


    Brendon''s heart. Ranita was sure to have a sleepless night tonight! Shannon was in a great mood,


    and her voice was sweet and coquettish, "Brendon, I''m sorry. I''ve caused you trouble again!"


    "When I''m feeling better, I''ll personally apologize to Ranita," Shannon said.


    Brendon nodded. "Ranita won''t hold it against you."


    Brendon knew Ranita''s personality well ¨C calm and collected. She wouldn''t get upset over


    something so small.


    "That''s great news! I was worried that Ranita would be angry with me. After all, she''s going through


    a tough time and needs someone by her side," Shannon said empathetically, but her hand was on


    Brendon''s arm. "Thank you foring to keep mepany, Brendon. It means a lot to me."


    Brendonforted Shannon for a bit before leaving.


    Ranita couldn''t sleep because of the pain in her leg from cramping. It felt like it had gone numb from


    the pain alone as she tossed and turned until finally calling Steve.


    "Ranita, why are you calling me sote? Is everything okay?" Steve asked hoarsely.


    "Dr. Pearson, sorry to bother you at this hour but my leg is cramping badly... I was wondering if


    there is any way to relieve the pain?"


    Cramps weren''t anything serious but only those who have experienced them know how painful they


    can be.


    Steve quickly replied, "Where are you? I''lle take a look."


    "Dr. Pearson, if you could just tell me what to do, then I can handle it myself... I''m at Moon Mountain


    Resort which is quite far from Kurima."


    Steve could be heard rustling around as he got dressed on his end of the line before saying, "Can


    you stand up? If so then try using hot towels first."


    "If not, then call one of the resort staff members for help.... Is there anywhere else that doesn''t feel


    good besides your legs?"


    After thinking about it for a moment, Ranita replied, "Nope! Just my legs cramping painfully... I''ll try


    using hot towels now though!"


    "I''m sorry for bothering you sote," she added apologetically.


    "It''s no problem at all since I am a doctor after all! Plus today was my night shift and after checking


    out rooms earlier today I haven''t slept yet," Steve answered back before continuing, "If there''s


    anything else, don''t hesitate to contact me again¡­you''ve helped me out several times in the past


    without giving me an opportunity repay your kindness."


    After hanging up with Steve, Ranita leaned against the wall while making her way slowly towards


    bathroom where she struggled with twisting hot towels around her cramped calf muscles. The


    muscles were throbbing painfully until they were covered by warm heat which made them feel much


    better almost instantly.


    This method really worked!


    Ranit repeated this process several times while lying down on sofa feeling drowsy.


    The vi room was spacious enough that when Brendon had been present, she hadn''t felt its


    emptiness. But now that he wasn''t here, it seemed quiet and hollow. Her heart felt just as empty too.


    After an unknown amount of time, the doorbell rang! Ranita, dazed and confused, went to answer it.


    Who could being to see her at thiste hour?


    Ranita opened the door and saw a tall man standing before her.


    Her eyes inexplicably began to water.

 Chapter 161 Touched

    Chapter 161 Touched


    Chapter 161 Touched


    In this world, there are people who will hate you for no reason, but there are also those who will


    stand by your side without any reason at all.


    Steve was still wearing his white coat and seemed a bit out of breath.


    "Dr. Pearson... why did youe?" Ranita felt both touched and guilty.


    "I was just a little worried about you so I came to check on you." Steve paused for a moment before


    smiling. "Don''t worry about it."


    Ranita nodded and stepped aside to let him in.


    "Please have a seat while show me your legs." Steve examined her legs for a moment before


    asking some questions. "During mid-pregnancy, the fetus requires more nutrients which can lead to


    cramping."


    "Oh? But isn''t mid-pregnancy still far away?"


    Steve''s tone softened as he exined further. "It''s hard to say for sure! Also if your legs get too cold


    it can cause cramping."


    "Just go home and take some calcium supplements," he advised seriously with just the right tone of


    voice - not too loud or soft-spoken either way.


    Ranita nodded gratefully. "Thank you Dr. Pearson. I applied heat earlier which helped quite a bit!"


    But in reality her leg still hurt quite badly; she just couldn''t bring herself toin around Steve


    like she would with others.


    Steve looked around then lowered his gaze slightly as he spoke again, "You''re all alone here


    without anyone taking care of you... why don''t you go back home?"


    Ranita had nned on resting here for two days but Brendon had ruined that n with his


    unexpected visit; coupled with this sudden cramp she really wasn''t in much mood anymore...


    However she didn''t want to return home either...


    "I..." Ranita hesitated briefly before speaking up again, "Dr. Pearson... I don''t really feel like going


    back home right now..."


    Her long eyshes fluttered lightly as she spoke calmly yet unhappily at the same time...


    Steve thought carefully then asked, "Did something happen? Did something happen after reading


    that news?"


    As friends they couldn''t talk behind Brendon''s back directly since rtionships were always


    complicated matters¡­


    "Yeah¡­I saw it¡­"


    "Shannon has always been following Brendon around since childhood¡­she''s sweet-natured so


    everyone likes spoiling her." After pausing briefly, Steve chuckled softly then pushed up his sses


    nervously, "Of course I''m not saying that because Shannon is my friend."


    "I know¡­" Ranita pursed her lips tightly together¡­


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "Dr. Pearson, let''s not talk about this anymore. You must be tired froming all the way here. Why


    don''t you rest for a bit?" Ranita''s leg was hurting and she almost lost her bnce when Steve


    helped her up. "Be careful! I live next door, so if you need anything just give me a call."


    "You should rest," Steve said before leaving and handing her a hotpress that he imed was a


    new hospital product that self-heated and was very convenient.


    Ranita thought Steve was really nice. At first nce, he seemed cold but as they spent more time


    together she discovered his gentle side.


    He was gentler than Brendon and more sensible than Dn.


    "Thank you, Dr. Pearson."


    "You''re my patient and I''m your doctor; taking care of patients is my responsibility so don''t be too


    polite with me." Although Steve said this, doctors are also human beings who can''t always be


    angels - it was just an excuse for him to say that.


    Ranita epted his kindness but insisted on seeing him out.


    "Anyway, thank you very much Dr. Pearson... rest well tonight! If you haven''t left tomorrow then let


    me treat you to dinner."


    "Sure thing! I''ll go rest now; if there''s anything just give me a call - I''m faster than 911!"


    At the intersection not far away from them, a ck Bentley disappeared into the night while a man


    leaned against his seat with bloodshot eyes staring at Ranita and Steve under the streetlight - there


    was an enormous rock in his heart.

 Chapter 162 Deliberate

    Chapter 162 Deliberate


    Chapter 162 Deliberate


    Didn''t Ranita care about him at all?


    As soon as he left, someone else came knocking on her door in the middle of the night without any


    consideration?


    Brendon frowned hard trying hard to restrain himself from rushing out of his car immediately.


    Ranita waved goodbye to Steve saying, "Bye Dr. Pearson."


    Watching Steve leave, Ranita lifted her foot ready to return the room. When she closed the door,


    she caught sight of Brendon''s car parked nearby.


    She furrowed her eyebrows. The car looked familiar like Brendon''s, but it was too dark outside, she


    couldn''t see its license te number clearly.


    Ranita felt like she might have overthought things. Brendon must be busy spending time with some


    other beautiful woman right now. How could he have time for her?


    Brendon saw Ranita looking towards him. He sat upright thinking if Ranita recognized him or not. If


    she did recognize him then maybe he wouldn''t get angry anymore. But, Ranita just nced at him


    once before closing the door.


    Brendon suffered from a momentary heart attack. He gritted his teeth and took out his phone calling


    her. However, the phone rang several times without anyone answering on the other end.


    Ranita''s leg was hurting, causing her to limp as she walked. Just as she entered the restroom, her


    phone rang outside. When she went to answer it, the call had already ended.


    The caller ID showed Brendon''s name.


    Ranita pursed her lips and didn''t call him back. Instead, she tossed her phone aside and applied a


    hot pack to her leg before going to sleep.


    The inte was still buzzing with activity.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    But Ranita didn''t bother checking it out. She spent half of the day idling away at the resort after


    Steve left early in the morning. She had invited him for lunch at a nearby farm but he returned home


    soon after that.


    Steve came from a good background and was handsome too. Standing on muddy farnd made


    Ranita feel like she wasn''t sincere enough towards him.


    Thankfully, the farm environment was decent and so were their meals. Steve ate heartily which put


    Ranita at ease too.


    She stayed for two more days before returning to Kurima where Shannon''s discharge from hospital


    was being broadcasted on air with great fanfare. As expected, there were some rumors about


    Brendon floating around too during this time when he called again but Ranita ignored his calls


    repeatedly until Caleb took over instead.


    Ranita answered Caleb''s call by saying ,"Hello?"


    "It''s me, Ranita!"


    She knew it was him but pretended not to know what he wanted.


    "What do you want?"


    "Why aren''t you answering my calls?"


    "I didn''t hear them," said Ranita nonchntly while trying not to sound annoyed by Brendon''s


    persistence.


    Brendon sounded low and hoarse with an angry tone in his voice when he asked, "But you could


    hear Caleb''s calls? Are you doing this on purpose?"


    Ranitaughed lightly; knowing that soon enough she would be leaving Kurima altogether including


    Brendon behind so there wasn''t anything left unsaid between them anymore.


    "I am doing this on purpose," replied Ranita in a husky voice due to cramps in her legs which had


    been bothering her for two days now.


    Brendon fell silent for a moment before asking, "Are you mad at me?"


    "No," said Ranita because there really wasn''t anything worth getting upset over anymore. "I am


    driving right now so I will hang up if there is nothing else."


    "Ranita! What happened with Shannon was an ident! I apologize for breaking my promise but


    that night I..."


    The remainder of Brendon''s words were drowned out by the ringing of the iing call. Ranita


    apologized and said, "I''ll take another call first." Ranita hung up on Brendon''s call and answered the


    professor''s call instead.

 Chapter 163 Throwing A Tantrum

    Chapter 163 Throwing A Tantrum


    Chapter 163 Throwing a Tantrum


    "Hello, Professor," Ranita greeted politely. The professor smiled and replied, "Hello, hello! Ranita,


    do you have some free time these days?"


    "I mentioned you to Vincentst time and he asked for your contact information after hearing about


    you from me. I just wanted to get your opinion on it," the professor said with a smile.


    The professor personally rmended her to Vincent and she couldn''t refuse.


    "Sure thing, I''ll add him when you give me his contact information," she added.


    "You young people should not just focus on work. Go out for coffee or something together when you


    have the chance and build some rtionships," the professor advised before giving her Vincent''s


    contact information.


    To her surprise, Vincent epted her request immediately and sent a greeting message saying,


    "Are you Ranita?".


    "Yes! Hello there, Vincent. I''m driving right now so I''ll get back to youter." She replied with a voice


    message.


    Ranita had been away from home for several days so she thought there would be dust all over the


    furniture but as soon as she opened the door it was clean with a faint scent of air freshener in the


    air.


    As she walked inside two steps further, in front of her was Brendon''s coat draped over one of the


    chairs.


    He lived here? For an instant moment, Ranita was stunned by this realization.


    Just then there came a sound at the door - click!


    Ranita turned around only to find herself staring into Brendon''s cold eyes.


    He rushed towards her quickly grabbing hold of her wrist tightly while asking angrily, "Ranita! What


    are you throwing such tantrums for?"


    Looking calmly at him with indifferent eyes, Ranita pushed his hand away saying, "You''re hurting my


    hand. Please let go."


    "Brendon!" She continued speaking in an even tone. "Don''t shout like that. I''m not deaf. Now tell me


    what is it that has got into your head?"


    "You pack up your things and leave. My house is small enough already. Don''t make yourself


    ufortable, Mr. Stuart." After finishing her sentence, Ranita didn''t wait for any response before


    leaving the living room hastily.


    Brendon always kept everything neat despite living here.


    After cing down her luggage, Ranita was about to wash up when Brendon grabbed hold of her


    neck and kissed her fiercely twice on the mouth without warning.


    "Ranita!" He shouted angrily again afterwards. "Can''t you listen to me? I didn''t keep my promise, I''m


    really sorry. I sincerely apologize. But even if you''re angry, you can''t ignore my calls for several


    days. Do you think about how hard that makes me feel?"


    "What exactly are you trying to achieve?"


    She was angry, throwing a tantrum, but he still didn''t know why? He even asked her why?Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Ranita felt inexplicably upset.


    "Brendon, which eye did you see me throwing a tantrum with?"


    "Hehe! I saw you throwing a tantrum with both eyes! That night I rushed back in the middle of the


    night and saw you chatting andughing with Steve. It waste at night and you''re a married


    woman!"


    That day, he went to Moon Mountain Resort?


    At that time, was the car she saw really Brendon''s?


    Ranita stared at Brendon nkly. "You came back to find me?"


    "Yeah! What am I doinging back and forth?! You didn''t answer my calls and were getting cozy


    with Steve."


    "Are you trying to make me angry so that you can inherit my property?"


    Brendon still knew how to joke.


    The anger in her heart seemed like a balloon being punctured; it dissipated instantly.


    "You only made one call. Can''t you make more?"


    "I haven''t made enough calls?" After speaking, Brendon gritted his teeth and kissed Ranita on the


    mouth. As they kissed deeper, Brendon hugged her tightly.

 Chapter 164 Jealousy

    Chapter 164 Jealousy


    Chapter 164 Jealousy


    In Ranita''s impression, Brendon wasn''t someone who would pester others incessantly.


    This was too much!


    He could make so many phone calls; he probably cared about her quite deeply? But what she


    wanted wasn''t just care¡­


    Ranita lost all of her temper from being kissed by him.


    "Brendon... let go... if there''s something to say then just say it without touching me." Although


    Ranita still had an expressionless face when she spoke these words, her voice had softened.


    Brendon grabbed onto her arm while staring at her intensely with his dark eyes. "If I don''t kiss you,


    will you listen quietly while I talk?"


    Ranita gritted her teeth in anger.


    "Let go!"


    They''d lived together for several years now; they''d spent every day together. She understood too


    well how his gaze changed over time...


    "Today, Miss Murphy is being discharged from the hospital, and you''re not there to apany her.


    Why did youe over to see me?" Ranita''s tone made her feel embarrassed as she sounded


    jealous, like a canary vying for affection.


    She pushed him aside and started packing her things. Brendon leaned against the table, watching


    her, and even lightly licked his lips as if savoring the recent kiss. After a while, he exined slowly,


    "Shannon has many people with her, and she doesn''t need me."


    "Why did Steve go looking for you at the resort then?"


    Ranita stopped packing up when she heard this question before looking up at him saying, "I''m not


    feeling well so Dr. Pearson came over to check on me."


    "Are you feeling unwell? Where does it hurt? Why did you go to Steve instead of telling me?"


    Brendon asked, sounding a bit angry. Before, she had preferred to bother Dn rather than have


    him take her to the hospital.


    Did she not want to talk about it? Thinking back on that phone call now made her sick, so maybe it


    was better not to bring it up.


    "Shouldn''t you see a doctor if you''re feeling unwell?"


    "Yes! So where does it hurt?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Ranita thought about her still-aching leg and sat down on the couch, stretching out her right leg in


    front of her. "It''s cramping."


    "It still hurts now? Do you want me to massage it for you?" Brendon said softly as Ranita spoke the


    last few words almost inaudibly.


    Inside, Ranita was filled with hope but also afraid of getting too hopeful and being disappointed


    later.


    "Okay!" Brendon sat next to her and grabbed hold of Ranita''s leg, cing it on top of his. He gently


    massaged the calf muscle with his fingers. "Is this where it hurts?"


    "In high school once I got a cramp from sitting under an air conditioner that was too strong,"


    Brendon said as he continued massaging.


    Ranita had seen pictures of him when he was younger in his study before; he looked much younger


    then with chubby cheeks like milk buns ¨C so handsome! Thinking about this made Ranita''s eyes


    shine brighter than before.


    "Oh really? Does that hurt?"


    "It hurts..." After pausing for a moment, Brendon squeezed one of Ranita''s fingers and spoke in a


    low voice, "I''m sorry I shouldn''t have left."


    Ranita''s heart began hurting again at his words. He always said things like this but eventually


    abandoned her without hesitation anyway.


    "What are we going to do about Miss Murphy over there? Aren''t you going over there?" There was


    some sadness in Ranita''s tone as she tried probing for answers; however no matter how hard she


    tried nothing ever worked out well for herself anyway.


    Brendon looked at her thoughtfully trying to think how best answer could be given when suddenly


    the doorbell rang.


    "I''ll go check!" Not daring listen any further or hear what he would say next, Ranita ran towards the


    door which opened only slightly before being pushed open forcefully by an immense force.


    The door banged loudly against its hinges while Holly''s angry curses followed, "Ranita!! You


    shameless fox spirit! I finally caught up with you! Tell me - did you order someone else intentionally


    hit Shannon?"

 Chapter 165 The Charge

    Chapter 165 The Charge


    Chapter 165 The Charge


    This sudden usation left Rantia stunned.


    "Holly, don''t make baseless usations!"


    "Don''t try denying anything anymore, Ranita!! Who else could be responsible if not you?! You''ve


    been holding grudges all along and caused trouble yourself yet framed Shannon!"


    Holly pushed against the door again forcefully.


    Ranita was hit by the corner of the door and instinctively took a few steps back, while Holly barged


    in.


    "Ranita, watch me teach you a lesson!" Holly didn''t listen to reason and pped Ranita directly


    across the face.


    Ranita dodged and grabbed her hand, her face turning dark.


    "Holly, I haven''t done anything to Shannon. If you have evidence, please bring it forward. If not,


    apologize to me immediately!"


    Holly''s wrist was held tightly as she struggled and red at Ranita in anger. "Apologize? You must


    be dreaming! Ha... you talk about evidence? What about you? Do you and Dn the adulterer have


    any evidence that proves Shannon harmed you? Shouldn''t both of you apologize to Shannon?"


    "Ranita, stop trying to reason with me here. Just wait until I find evidence; I''ll definitely send you to


    jail!"


    Ranita''s blood boiled inside her.


    "Holly, Shannon''s situation has nothing to do with me..." Before she could finish speaking, a delicate


    figure came fluttering over.


    Who else could it be but Shannon?!


    She grabbed Holly''s arm and pleaded pitifully, "Holly please don''t make trouble! I believe Ranita


    wouldn''t hurt me..." Pausing for a moment she turned softly towards Ranita, "Ranita, is that true?"


    Ha ha! The disgust on Ranita''s face was palpable!


    "Ranita, please don''t get angry! Holly is just anxious. I''ll take her away now so as not cause trouble


    for you."


    Shannon bit her lip saying that she would leave but didn''t move an inch from where she stood.


    "Shannon... don''t pull me away; this matter is probably something that she arranged or else how


    could it be so coincidental?"


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


    "You are such a good person who doesn''t hold grudges against anyone except for one person - only


    against Ranita! It must be her!" Holly insisted on biting onto Rantia''s words like they were bones


    stuck in between teeths..


    Ranita looked at the two people singing duets with a cold gaze and said, "I''ve already told you,


    Shannon''s business has nothing to do with me. Please leave my house immediately, or I will call the


    police."


    "Calling the police sounds great! It''s perfect timing for them catch hold of you¡­" But before Holly


    could finish speaking, she seemed stuck on something, and then her angry eyes suddenly began


    flickering. She hesitantly called out, "Brother."


    Brendon had a cold expression. He had heard Holly''s disrespectful remarks towards Ranita earlier,


    and her arrogant attitude was evident.


    "Holly, Ranita is still your sister-inw! ''An elder sister-inw is like a mother,'' do you think this is an


    appropriate way to treat your elders?"


    Holly gritted her teeth, her eyes full of grievances staring at Rantia,"How can she still be my sister-


    inw when both of you are divorced already?"


    "Holly..." Brendon''s scolding words were not yet finished, but Shannon had already stepped in front


    of Holly. Her delicate face was a bit pale as she looked up at Brendon, her eyes shimmering with


    tears. She said, "Brendon, don''t me Holly. She was just too worried! I really scared her when I


    got hurt this time!"


    "Brendon, if you want to me someone, me me. It''s all my fault..."


    As soon as Shannon started crying softly, Brendon''s expression softened a bit.


    "It has nothing to do with you; don''t take the responsibility on yourself."


    "But... please don''t be angry with Holly." Shannon stared at him innocently and even pulled on his


    sleeve yfully.


    Ranita felt a chill run down her spine.

 Chapter 166 Standing By Her Side

    Chapter 166 Standing By Her Side


    Chapter 166 Standing by Her Side


    Shannon truly lived up to being in the entertainment industry - her acting skills and expressions


    were so good that she could win an award without even acting!


    "Shannon... Holly doesn''t know how to act appropriately for her age. You shouldn''t worry about this


    matter," Brendon said.


    Before this incident happened, he only thought that Holly talked too much but never expected that


    she would actually dare to use violence against someone else.


    "Holly! Apologize to your sister-inw!" This one sentence from Brendon hurt two people - it made


    Holly furious while causing Shannon''s lips tremble uncontrobly.


    "Brother! I won''t apologize to her! Everything I said is true; it must be because she holds a grudge


    against Shannon and ordered someone else to harm her!"


    "I also won''t call Ranita my sister-inw! You''re making Shannon sad like this!" Holly spoke without


    any restraint and dragged Shannon into the argument directly.


    Shannon secretly regretteding along now since it only made Ranitaugh at them more than


    ever before.


    "Holly, please don''t say things like that about Ranita who has been working hard for Bouldend


    Mansion for years now," pleaded soft-spoken Shannon while pulling on Holly''s hand gently as if


    trying not let anyone see what was happening between them.


    Holly didn''t want give in easily but unfortunately they were outnumbered here since Brendon was


    present.


    Seeing how unwillingly stubborn Holly looked right now prompted sympathetic words from soft-


    hearted Shannon again, "Brendon, this matter also involves me. I will apologize first! It''s all my


    fault¡­"


    Because of Shannon standing by her side right now, Holly felt extremely touched inside. She


    grabbed onto Shannon tightly saying, "Shannon, this matter has nothing do with you!"


    "Ranita, I''m sorry for what happened earlier," apologized Holly impulsively.


    Ranita remained silent without indicating whether or not she forgave them. However, Brendon stood


    by her side which meant something positive after all.


    He then escorted them out of there together afterwards.


    Shannon looked at Brendon with reluctance. "Brendon, are you going home today?" She leaned


    into him as she spoke.


    "Shannon, are you okay?" Brendon held her up. "You don''t look well. You should stay at home and


    rest."


    "I want to stay at home and rest too," Shannon pouted. "But I can''t sleep or eat well without you."


    Brendon hesitated as he looked at Shannon''s hopeful eyes. "I might bete going back today."


    "Oh..." Shannon paused for a moment before putting on a brave face and saying, "It''s okay. Ranita


    is back, and you should spend time with her instead of me. I''m sorry for being so childish,


    Brendon..."


    "Brother, pleasee back with us! Shannon is getting out of the hospital today, and she''ll be so


    sad if you''re not there!" Holly was getting anxious.


    "You hush!" Brendon snapped at Holly, and she sulkily muttered, "Ranita doesn''t have good


    intentions toward Shannon, don''t you believe me?"


    "Even if she didn''t do it, it must have been Dn! Shannon is so kind; who would have the heart to


    hurt her?" Holly believed her analysis was spot-on. She continued, "It can only be Ranita! Shannon


    returned, and she was kicked out of Bouldend Mansion; she must hold a grudge against


    Shannon."


    "Holly, don''t say that..." Shannon tried to stop her, but Holly had already started her tirade. She said,


    "It''s because my brother likes Shannon! She must be eaten up with jealousy."


    "Brendon..." Shannon bit her lip, trying to appear pitiable, but Brendon ignored her and said, "Ranita


    wouldn''t do anything to harm others. Shannon''s situation is definitely not rted to her. You all


    should go back now."


    Back in their apartment, Brendon asked Ranita, "Is Shannon''s situation rted to you?"


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Facing this question, Ranita felt her heart ache as if it were being cut into pieces.

 Chapter 167 Going On A Blind Date

    Chapter 167 Going On A Blind Date


    Chapter 167 Going on a Blind Date


    Ranita had been with him for three years, giving her all in both work and life. What kind of person


    she was should have been clear to him by now. But today, he asked such a chilling question.


    "Do you also suspect me?" Ranita didn''t want to talk anymore.


    "Ranita, I didn''t say it was you. Just calm down."


    Ranita couldn''t stay calm. She turned away, her voice low and heavy. "Brendon, please go."


    "I''d like to be alone for a while."


    Brendon walked up to her and grabbed her face, forcing her to look into his eyes. "Ranita, let me


    take you out for lunch. Aren''t you supposed to get your stitches removed this afternoon?"


    Ranita pushed his hand away and spoke coolly, "No need, it''s just a small matter. You don''t have to


    trouble yourself."


    "Miss Murphy is being discharged today, aren''t you going back home for dinner?"


    Brendon''s eyes showed a hint of displeasure. Why did this woman always push him away?


    "It''s none of your business whether I go back or not!" Brendon gritted his teeth and forcefully took


    Ranita outside for lunch.


    On weekdays he was very busy.


    During the meal, he received several phone calls while Ranita silently ate. After finishing most of the


    food she realized that Vincent had sent her a message.


    "Ranita, are you busy? If you have time I''d like to invite you out for dinner." He paused before


    sending another message saying, "If it makes things difficult for you, then we don''t have to eat."


    Ranita replied, "Sure thing! You pick the time. It''s not me who finds things difficult but rather


    Professor who can be quite annoying at times."


    "That works! How about Saturday night? We''ll meet at the food street near Kurima Foreign Studies


    University."


    It had been a long time since Ranita had been there so she was about to reply when Brendon


    leaned in close with his breath blowing on her cheek as he coldly asked, "Who is it?"


    Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Brendon staring intently at their conversation on her phone


    almost burning a hole through it.


    "A senior from college." She replied as she typed.


    "Why is he looking for you?" Brendon asked again with his gaze fixed on their conversation making


    Ranita feel hot all over from embarrassment.


    "Blind date." She answered calmly trying not show any emotion but adding some coquettishness in


    tone, "He was introduced by Professor He himself - also an alumnus from Kurima Foreign Studies


    University - tall and handsome; used work as an interpreter too... even appeared on national news


    once! All us juniors admire him!"


    Also from Kurima Foreign Studies University?! A senior?! Admired by everyone?!


    Brendon felt like everything inside him was turning upside down but adults were good at hiding


    emotions so he spoke calmly, "Did you forget that we''re still technically married?"


    Ranita pursed her lips. "I thought it was only a matter of time."


    With only a few days left in the one-month cooling-off period for their divorce, Brendon wouldn''t


    change his mind about her, and she had no chance to change hers. The oue was already


    predetermined.


    "Brendon, when you signed the divorce papers, you wished me happiness. So whoever I date is


    none of your business."


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


    Brendon''s heart ached.


    He wished her happiness so that she could be free from this marriage and bravely continue loving


    the person she loved instead of going on blind dates!


    This made his concession seem meaningless.

 Chapter 168 Rogue

    Chapter 168 Rogue


    Chapter 168 Rogue


    "I forbid it! You can''t go on blind dates!"


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon reached out and took Ranita''s phone away. "Delete his number and don''t contact him


    again!"


    Ranita was furious. "Don''t touch my phone!"


    Deleting it was so impolite! Besides, Vincent probably asked her out because he had no other


    choice.


    "Brendon, stop being ridiculous!" Ranita reached out to grab her phone back but didn''t realize that


    she leaned against Brendon''s body entirely.


    Brendon could see her pure forehead just by lowering his head slightly.


    "Give it back to me quickly!"


    As soon as Ranita spoke those words, she realized that Brendon wasn''t moving at all; he just stared


    at her with lowered eyes.


    "What are you looking at?" She suddenly noticed something wrong next second.


    "Sorry," said Ranita as she stepped back hastily but almost fell down due to too much force if not for


    Brendon''s quick reaction in holding onto her arm.


    "Be careful," he warned softly while still holding onto Ranita''s arm.


    "Hmm..." murmured Ranita as she moved away from him before reaching towards him again with


    an extended hand, "Give me my phone back!"


    "No blind dates! If you promise not to go on any more blind dates, then I''ll give your phone back."


    What a rogue!


    Ranita gritted her teeth. "Give it back now!"


    Brendon held onto the phone while raising an eyebrow, "Do we have an agreement? If you break


    your promise..."


    His deep voice exploded in Ranita''a ear before she realized that he pulled himself closer by hooking


    one arm around neck while rubbing noses with hers mischievously, "I''ll kiss you right here."


    Ranita''a face turned red immediately due to embarrassment.


    "Don''t mess around; let go of me." She red angrily at Brendon who looked serious without any


    hint of joking or teasing anymore.


    This is a restaurant; I don''t want people staring at us!


    "Just give me my phone back. I won''t go anymore."


    Brendon raised an eyebrow. "Ranita, when you make a promise, you''d better stick to it."


    Ranita pursed her lips, thinking, "Do you think I''m like you?"


    "Well, your word is your bond!" After a pause, Ranita added, "If you act like this, I might


    misunderstand that you''re not willing to divorce me."


    It was a cautious probe, a courageous attempt on her part. Ranita was feeling anxious, afraid of the


    answer he might give her. She regretted being impulsive.


    "I was just joking, Mr. Stuart. Forget about it!" Ranita quickly tried to backtrack, but Brendon


    continued to stare at her with a probing look that held some hidden meaning.


    "Ranita..." Brendon began to speak but his phone rang and he hurriedly left after answering it.


    Later that afternoon, Ranita went to the hospital to have her stitches removed from the wound on


    her forehead. Steve came by and brought some ointment for her scar.


    "Dr. Pearson, let''s go out for dinner tonight! My treat!" Ranita invited him.


    "Sure! Where do you want to eat? What do you feel like having?" Steve paused before adding,


    "Actually I wanted to ask you something too."


    Just as they were discussing their ns for dinner, Chris called and asked if they could meet up


    later that evening over dinner and discuss work-rted matters as well.


    Steve chuckled when he heard this, "You have work with Chris too?"


    Thinking quickly on her feet, Ranita turned towards Chris and asked, "Mr. Webster, I had already


    made ns with Dr. Pearson earlier tonight but would you mind joining us?"


    "Not at all!" Chris replied enthusiastically, "The more the merrier! And it''s been awhile since I''ve


    seen Steve so we can catch up too."


    Chris even arranged for a restaurant reservation afterwards.

 Chapter 169 Disgust

    Chapter 169 Disgust


    Chapter 169 Disgust


    After making arrangements for dinnerter that evening, Ranita headed over towards Stuart''s Corp.


    As soon as she stepped in, the phone rang.


    "Hello? This is Ranita." There was silence on the other end before Amiya''s haughty voice spoke up,


    "This is Amiya, I''d like to talk with you."


    "My car is parked by the side of road, you''ll see it when youe out."


    Ranita turned around, and sure enough saw Amiya''s exclusive car waiting there. She hesitated


    before walking over towards it.


    "Get in!"


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Mrs. Stuart, if there is anything specific please tell me now. I still have business matters left


    unattended." Ranita did not get into the car, nor did she intend to either.


    Amiya raised an eyebrow, herself displeased with how things were going between them ever since


    three years ago when she married Brendon. She had never given any good treatment or approval


    of her as Brendon''s wife and had always treated her like an obligatory lesson. Now what else could


    be bothering Amiya?


    "Are you sure you want to say this here? Think carefully, Ranita but..."


    "Mrs. Stuart, I don''t think we need to make a big deal out of this. If you have something to say, just


    say it. Otherwise, I''ll take my leave," Ranita paused and looked directly at Amiya with a cold tone.


    "Mrs. Stuart, please face reality. I am no longer the daughter-inw of the Stuart family and I don''t


    think I need to continue putting up with you."


    Put up with?


    Amiya''s eyes shed with anger.


    "Ranita... What gives you the right to say these things to me? You put up with me? That''s ridiculous!


    Haven''t we been putting up with you in the Stuart family all along?" Ranita couldn''t stand it anymore


    and interrupted Amiya saying, "Mrs. Stuart, if I have no right then what gives you the right to nitpick


    and criticize me?"


    "To be honest Mrs. Stuart, it''s not just putting up but also disgust that I feel towards you," Ranita


    straightened her back slightly.


    The sun was shining brightly today and her ck eyes were reflecting some light making them look


    bright and clean; she carried herself elegantly from head-to-toe giving off an air of coolness.


    She didn''t look like someone who came from humble beginnings at all.


    "You... Ranita! You''re really something!" Amiya was too proud; being told that someone felt


    disgusted by her was absolutely intolerable for her.


    Amiya started breathing heavily as she continued, "Ranita, originally I wanted to talk nicely about


    this matter but since you refuse my offer, then don''t me me for being ruthless."


    Amiya''s car sped away quickly while she vented out all her frustrations inside; even tearing apart


    the check that she had prepared earlier!


    Meanwhile, Ranita felt relieved.


    After years of tolerating everything, she had finally had enough!


    In less than half a month, she would receive her divorce certificate which meant that she could


    immediately leave Kurima behind once and for all!


    "Miss Bowman, you seem happy today. Is there anything good happening?" Julia approached


    Ranita smilingly yet cunningly.


    Ranita nodded lightly before changing topic, "Is there anything wrong, Julia?"


    "Not really. Just now Mr. Stuart returned from his meeting looking unhappy. Would you mind taking


    these documents in for him when hees backter?" Julia pleaded while looking at Ranita with


    puppy dog eyes.


    Taking over, the calm-looking woman knocked on Brendon''s office door before entering. The man


    was unbuttoning his shirt revealing his Adam''s apple which looked rather sexy...


    "Mr. Stuart , this is information sent over by Nemotube. I''ve sorted them out already, and sent them


    via email both Caleb and yourself." Pausing briefly, Ranita put down the files given by Julia onto


    Brendon''s desk. "These are what Julia asked me bring in."


    Brendon had just finished a meeting when he received news that there was a problem with the


    project in Qaesburg. The person in charge, his cousin Allen Stuart, was now lying in the hospital


    and unable to do anything.

 Chapter 170 Trouble

    Chapter 170 Trouble


    Chapter 170 Trouble


    With Allen in the hospital, the project had been dyed and several other corporations were eyeing


    it up besides Stuart''s Corp. After sessfully negotiating with Nemotube for the Swansea Bay


    project, Brendon felt like victory was within reach but now everything had fallen apart.


    Brendon wasn''t feeling good about any of this.


    "You''re so kind," Brendon said coldly to Ranita. His expression remained nk but he knew he


    couldn''t take out his anger on her. Even though she had signed a contract with Stuart''s Corp, she


    was only an external employee and could only be considered half of his staff.


    "What trouble have you encountered?" Ranita asked casually. As a former housewife who used to


    take care of him at home, she would asionally show some concern for him.


    Sometimes Brendon would answer her questions but most of the time he would just brush them off


    since there were always importantpany matters that needed his attention.


    As usual, Ranita didn''t expect him to answer but this time Brendon exined, "Allen went street


    racing in Qaesburg and ended up in the hospital. The Swansea Bay project has been dyed by


    several days because of it."


    Ranita knew a little bit about Allen as well - he was Brendon''s uncle''s son who was younger than


    him by a few years and always loved going out partying since childhood due to being born into


    wealth without any aspirations or goals for himself.


    He was famous for his nightlife after all in Kurima...


    When Ranita married into the Stuart family, Allen was ced under Brendon''s supervision. Brendon


    didn''t treat Allen with brotherly affection and sent him to work in Gaso, where the conditions were


    much harsher than in Kurima, and without thepany of friends. Over time, Allen settled down


    and began working diligently.


    In these past two years, he showed excellent performance and voluntarily offered to manage the


    Swansea Bay project in Qaesburg, a proposal that Brendon epted. However, things took an


    unexpected turn.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Ranita didn''t know what else to say so she spoke softly after some thought, "Allen has be


    more mature these past two years. I don''t think it was intentional."


    "You''re still speaking up for him!" Brendon tugged at his cor again, revealing more of his neck.


    Ranita suddenly remembered something and asked, "Is your back better? Did you put any ointment


    on it when you came back?"


    "No one helped," Brendon replied casually. Then he took the documents, lowered his head, and


    asked, "Has that old man Rashid contacted you again?"


    Ranita''s heart skipped a beat at the first half of his sentence. This guy was with Shannon every day,


    how could he not have any help? Ranita didn''t believe him! He was such a liar!


    "Mr. Bassett is only in his forties, technically still a handsome man!" Ranita paused and continued,


    "Mr. Stuart, I have something to do tonight so I must take my leave!"


    Chris had booked a private chef restaurant.


    She parked her car and saw Steve and Chris getting out together. They both smiled at her; one was


    cool and collected while the other exuded an air of sophistication that made even the moonlight pale


    inparison.


    "Dr. Pearson, Mr. Webster, what a coincidence!"


    "Luckily we arrived just in time or else it wouldn''t be good to keep you waiting," Chris said as he led


    them forward.


    Ranita trailed behind them when Steve quietly asked her, "Will you still get cramps these days?"


    Ranita shook her head, "No more!"


    "That''s good... oh by the way here''s this for you..." Steve handed her a bottle of lemon candy, "You


    like these right?"


    Ranita did like them very much and so did the little thing inside of her belly.


    She epted it just as Chris turned around curiously asking, "What are you guys talking about? Are


    you leaving me out?"

 Chapter 171 The Three

    Chapter 171 The Three


    Chapter 171 The Three


    "We''re just chatting casually," Steve took two steps forward before hooking his arm around Chris''


    neck leading him along but gestured towards Ranita with his hand behind his back.


    Who knew Dr. Pearson had such an immature side?


    Ranita smiled slyly from the corner of her eye when suddenly she froze mid-step.


    At the entrance were familiar faces that stung at her eyes; everyone from the Stuart family including


    Shannon who wore a white dress resembling that of royalty stood there too.


    "Ranita! What are the odds we''d meet here too?" Shannon greeted Ranita with enthusiasm but


    nced over at Chris and Steve saying, "Chris! You guys are here too? Did youe out to eat


    with Ranita?"


    "I just got discharged today so Brendon suggested we celebrate together outside since there''ll be


    more people making it livelier."


    Shannon stood next to Brendon; theirbination looked stunning especially since they were


    apanied by the Stuart family members which made their group lookplete as if they


    belonged together perfectly.


    With indifference written all over face, Ranita nced briefly at Shannon before saying, "We don''t


    want to trouble anyone else. We''ve already reserved our seats."


    "You''re right, Ranita is absolutely correct. You enjoy your meal while we go ahead." Steve waved


    goodbye without any expression on his face then nodded slightly towards Amiya before turning


    around entering into a room.


    They booked a private room for the three of them. Ranita remained silent, quietly drinking her water.


    Steve propped up his chin and spoke, "Do we need to find another restaurant?"


    Chris nodded in agreement, "If you don''t want to eat here, we can go somewhere else."


    "Thank you, but it''s okay," Ranita paused before continuing. "They can eat their food and we''ll eat


    ours."


    Ranita started off feeling a bit down but as they discussed work throughout dinner she put her


    emotions aside.


    Overall, the atmosphere at the table was good until someone knocked on the door of their private


    room.


    Shannon followed Brendon like a little bird with sweet smiles all over her face. "Sorry to bother you


    guys,'' she said. "You don''t mind if we join you, do you?"


    Steve pushed his sses up and calmly asked Shannon if she needed something from them.


    "We just ran into each other and I wanted toe say hi," Shannon hesitated before adding with


    some sadness in her voice, "Steve, Chris, I tried making ns with both of you before but neither of


    you had time for me... I was really upset."


    "Brendon... you''re always so good to me!" Shannonined pitifully yet still managed to sound


    boastful at the same time. Ranita felt annoyed listening to this conversation and even nauseous at


    times.


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


    "I''m going to use the restroom!" Without saying anything else or acknowledging anyone else''s


    presence in the room, Ranita quickly walked away towards the bathroom.


    After having some lemon candy earlier that day she wasn''t feeling too sick anymore but


    asionally would feel ufortable again.


    "Ugh!" She covered her mouth trying hard not throw up...


    Suddenly, Holly''s suspicious voice came from behind, "Ranita... is there something wrong with your


    health?"


    Ranita jumped out of surprise then quicklyposed herself without showing any expression on


    her face as she left without saying anything back or looking back at Holly who became angry after


    being ignored by Ranita.


    "Move!" Ranita coldly stared at Holly while speaking, "I have nothing more to say, Miss Stuart."


    "Haha!" Holly smirked, "Ranita! You look so pale... it''s quite pathetic actually!"


    Holly raised her chin triumphantly while saying, "But it makes sense though doesn''t it? Seeing my


    brother together with Shannon must be hurting your heart right now!"

 Chapter 172 Wrongfully Accused

    Chapter 172 Wrongfully used


    Chapter 172 Wrongfully used


    "But what can you do about it?" Holly continued speaking, "My brother just doesn''t like you that way!


    He has feelings for Shannon instead! Even if you were dying here right now vomiting non-stop, he


    wouldn''t care about what happens."


    Holly''s words hurt Ranita''s feelings deeply.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    As the conversation took a turn, Holly''s face was filled with disgust. "If my brother doesn''t want you,


    then have some self-awareness and don''t cling onto Chris! Whether it''s Steve or Chris, they are


    both out of your league!"


    Ranita looked at Holly coldly and said, "Miss Stuart, please watch your words. Dr. Pearson, Mr.


    Webster and I are innocent."


    Ranita felt that there was no point in exining to Holly anymore as she seemed like a lunatic.


    "Excuse me. I don''t want to argue with you here," Ranita said.


    "Ranita, do you think I want to bother with you? It''s you who''s shameless..." Holly was about to


    continue her rant, but Ranita interrupted her, saying, "You''re right. I''m shameless."


    "What?" Holly was puzzled by Ranita''s statement. "What did you say?"


    "I said I''m shameless. You can have it since you clearly don''t have shame!" Ranita replied.


    Holly took a few seconds toprehend and then got so angry that she gritted her teeth,


    eximing, "Ranita, you''re asking for trouble!"


    In her impulsiveness, Holly raised her hand to strike, but Ranita was faster. She firmly held Holly''s


    wrist and pushed it away, saying, "Holly, if you try anything, don''t me me for not being polite!"


    Holly, who had no bodyguards with her, knew she couldn''t handle Ranita on her own. Her teeth


    audibly ground together, and it took her a while to utter, "Just wait and see!"


    Dealing with people like Holly was truly exasperating. Fortunately, Ranita calcted the days and


    knew she would soon be free.


    As she passed through the corridor, she saw Brendon and Shannon talking by the door. Shannon


    noticed her first, her eyes reddening as she retreated behind Brendon.


    "Brendon... It''s Ranita," Shannon said timidly.


    Ranita couldn''t help but feel irritated by Shannon''s hesitant tone. She intended to leave quickly, but


    Brendon stopped her.


    "Ranita... I just received a call from the police ... they found the person who hit Shannon with their


    car."


    Upon hearing this, Ranita looked up at Brendon and said, "Oh." What did this have to do with her?


    "Ranita, the person who hit me was also drunk driving! Moreover... the police investigated his


    whereabouts, and he drove straight from Moon Mountain to Kurima..." Shannon bit her lip and


    spoke softly, with a hint of grievance. "Ranita, I know you don''t really like me, but is it too much to


    have someone drive into me?"


    Ranita paused for a few seconds. She understood all the words, but when they werebined,


    they became somewhat iprehensible.


    "Miss Murphy, does going to Moon Mountain mean it''s rted to me? So those numerous guests at


    Moon Mountain Resort are all being wrongly used!" Ranita replied coolly and calmly, her tone


    extremely cold and firm, causing Shannon''s eyes to well up even more.


    She grabbed onto Brendon''s sleeve.


    "Ranita, but I haven''t offended anyone else... Earlier, Holly and I overheard you and Mr. Webster


    suspecting me, saying that I instructed someone to rear-end you... Are you... holding a grudge


    against me?" Shannon used weakly, directly cing the me on Ranita. It made Ranita feel so


    disgusted that she almost vomited.


    Ranita coldly stared at Shannon and Brendon, her voice icy. "Brendon, do you think the same way


    too? Do you also believe it''s me?"

 Chapter 173 Jealousy

    Chapter 173 Jealousy


    Chapter 173 Jealousy


    Silence spread throughout the atmosphere.


    A dull pain emanated from Ranita''s chest area.


    "Ranita... don''t be angry with Brendon because of me..." Shannon said weakly.


    Ranita interrupted her coldly, "Shannon, I''m talking to Brendon right now. Please don''t interrupt."


    Being looked at like this by Ranita made Shannon feel even more wronged.


    Her eyes turned red while biting her lip as she looked at Brendon usingly without saying a word


    about being bullied by Ranita silently through tears in her eyes.


    This kind of advanced coquetry was what men can''t resist most.


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


    Brendon hurriedlyforted her, "Shannon, she didn''t mean any harm. Don''t be upset." After


    pausing for a moment he reached out his hand and grabbed onto Ranitas'' hand, "Let''s go


    somewhere quiet where we can talk alone."


    An empty corner.


    There was only one dim light nearby; Brendon towered over her with his gaze icy-cold.


    "Brendon! I didn''t do anything that hurt Shannon! You don''t have to look at me like that!" The pain in


    Rantia''s heart had already be unbearable.


    She couldn''t help but lose control of herself.


    "I never said it was your fault; don''t get so worked up," he replied calmly.


    Could she not get worked up?


    If she had really hurt Shannon then maybe she would feel better now instead of just taking all the


    me!


    Who wouldn''t be angry?


    Brendon pursed his lips before finally speaking after some time passed, "We haven''t investigated


    this matter thoroughly yet! Whateveres into Shannon''s mind wille out from Shannon''s


    mouth since she''s innocent."


    Innocent? That was hrious!


    Ranita''s lips were sealed tight without saying another word.


    "Don''t throw a tantrum anymore, Rantia. I''ll investigate this matter thoroughly, and won''t wrongly


    use you!" Brenson lowered his voice which finally eased Rantia''s difort somewhat.


    "Today you went to the hospital to have your stitches removed? Let me see," Brendon said,


    reaching out to y with her hair. He saw the small pink wound and his eyes softened with a hint of


    tenderness.


    Ranita flinched when he touched her and pulled away. "There''s nothing to see," she paused before


    pushing Brendon away, saying, "You should go back now. Miss Murphy is probably getting


    impatient."


    "Just a minute!" Brendon grabbed her back and hugged her from behind. His familiar warmth


    enveloped Ranita, making the nape of her neck tingle.


    "Why did you have dinner with Steve and Chris?" he asked in an unfriendly tone.


    "Is that not allowed?" Ranita hesitated before continuing, "You can spend all day with Shannon but I


    can''t have dinner with my friends?"


    Ranita sighed after speaking. "Never mind, I don''t mean anything else by it. I was just discussing


    business with them."


    Brendon was happy about this revtion because he had always thought that Ranita couldn''t


    possibly like Steve or Chris!


    "Ranita..." Brendon didn''t finish his sentence as Ranita''s phone rang.


    She nced at it briefly before looking stunned and answering in a different voice than usual. "I


    need to take this call."


    From the corner of his eye, Brendon saw "Brother" on the screen.


    Brother? Where did Ranita get a brother?


    Ranita held onto her phone tightly as if she were prepared for something unexpected while looking


    nervous yet anxious ¨C like someone meeting an old lover after many years apart.


    Slowly but surely she answered the call softly, "Brother..."


    Her voice was soft and full of longing while her eyes were gentle ¨C so gentle that they seemed


    almost too tender for words.


    Brendon had never seen this side of Ranita before but who was this person?


    Could it be the man she had been talking about for so long?


    Brendon''s heart felt sour at the thought...

 Chapter 174 Brother

    Chapter 174 Brother


    Chapter 174 Brother


    "I''m outside right now. Can I call youter tonight?"


    Ranita''s voice sounded light as if carried by spring breeze.


    Her heart raced up into her throat; she hadn''t expected Jedidiah Bowman would call since they


    hadn''t talked much since he left Kurima when she arrived there.


    Jedidiah made a sound of agreement which also sounded very tender over their conversation line,


    "Sure! Then let me give you a ringter tonight instead."


    "Okay," replied Rantia quickly before hanging up without any time left for reflection or contemtion.


    But then suddenly Brenson hooked his arm around Rantia''s neck from behind asking curiously into


    earlobe, "Who is that? Why are you calling him brother?"


    This sudden action made Rantia stiffen up immediately¡­


    Brendon leaned in close, his solid chest pressed against her back, warm and carrying the familiar


    scent of Fiery Red Ginseng perfume. It was the fragrance he had been wearingtely, and Ranita''s


    heart skipped a beat or two in response.


    "Hmm?" Brendon raised an eyebrow, turning her body to face him. "Can''t tell me?"


    Ranita lowered her longshes, smiling faintly as she thought of something. "Brother," she said


    softly. "A brother who has been very good to me."


    Her eyes shone with emotion.


    Brendon felt a pang of sadness and unease.


    "Where did you get this brother from? Didn''t you say your parents are the only rtives you have


    left in the countryside?" Brendon looked at her with dark eyes that seemed to be weighing the


    truthfulness of her words.


    There were many things involved here.


    Ranita didn''t know how to exin it all. She just said casually, "A rtive''s brother."


    "Really?" Brendon asked skeptically.


    Ranita felt upset about it all.


    "What if not?"


    "Ranita... we''re not officially divorced yet... don''t go around causing trouble." Brendon''s expression


    was cold now.


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


    Typical male behavior - even someone like Brendon couldn''t avoid it.


    Ranita replied lightly, "Miss Murphy isn''t your sister either but she calls you ''Brother'' all the time."


    "Brendon, I have something else I need to do," Ranita pushed away from him and went back into


    their private room.


    Steve was chatting with Chris when Ranita returned; they both smiled at her warmly when they saw


    here back in. Both men were handsome enough that theirbined smiles made for quite an


    attractive sight.


    It helped ease some of Ranita''s worries ¨C there were more than one cool and charming guys out


    there besides Brendon ¨C she needed to learn how let go sometimes too! Not that anything would


    happen between them anyway; after all they were both friends with Brendon!


    "We were just talking about where you disappeared off too," Chris said as he handed over a cup of


    warm water.


    "Thank you!" Ranita smiled politely before lowering her voice slightly, "I ran into someone outside."


    Upon hearing this, Steve and Chris understood. Neither of them was the gossiping type, but when it


    came to Ranita, Steve couldn''t help but ask one more question, "Is it Brendon and Shannon?


    Shannon has always been clingy since childhood, and now that she''s grown up, she still has no


    sense of boundaries. If you can''t stand it anymore, just confront her directly."


    "You are still legally Brendon''s wife," Steve said, and Ranita''s expression softened into a smile like


    a detailed painting. She replied, "Thank you, Dr. Pearson. You''re very kind."


    Steve received thepliment with some disappointment but quickly recovered and said, "Don''t


    thank me... I actually think your temperament suits Brendon well. What do you think, Chris?"


    Chris held the warm porcin cup in his hand and gazed at Ranita without saying anything.

 Chapter 175 Increasing Competitiveness

    Chapter 175 Increasing Competitiveness


    Chapter 175 Increasing Competitiveness


    "Are you full?" Chris asked after several seconds of silence.


    Ranita nodded her head and said, "Yes, I''ll take your information back with me and send it to you


    when it''s ready."


    Ranita drove herself home.


    Chris leaned against the car door and handed Steve a cigarette along with a lighter. "Want to grab a


    drink?" he asked.


    Steve took them both from him and nodded his head in agreement. "Sure."


    In the private room of the club house, Steve handed Chris a ss of alcohol while saying, "We have


    tomorrow off so let''s have one drink."


    Although Steve also had time off asionally, he usually didn''t drink because who knew when an


    emergency surgery woulde up?


    "Is that okay? What if somethinges up..." Chris hesitated before asking.


    "I want to have one drink." Steve insisted so Chris poured him one.


    After drinking half of it down quickly, Steve looked at Chris eagerly before throwing out straight-


    forwardly, "Do you like Ranita?"


    Chris pinched his cigarette between two fingers as smoke billowed around him making his features


    hard to distinguish through its haze. "What about you?" He countered instead.


    Steveughed softly under his breath. "Chris... I really do like Ranita... and Brendon knows about


    this too. When they officially divorce, I n on pursuing her. What about yourself?"


    After Steve spoke, he looked at Chris with a piercing gaze, waiting for his response.


    "Me?" Chris continued smoking, "You''re saying Brendon knows, and he didn''t punch you?"


    "Not punch me, but he was quite angry!" Steve chuckled, maintaining a calm demeanor. "If you


    want to pursue her, go ahead, fairpetition."


    Chris lowered his gaze, taking a sip of his drink. After a while, he finally replied, "Now is not the time


    to talk about this. I have my own moral boundaries."


    Upon hearing this, Steve chuckled softly once again, and in that familiar tone, he said, "You indeed


    seem to like Ranita as well."


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Chris looked up, meeting Steve''s eyes. Behind his sses, Chris''s eyes, slightly distant, now shone


    brightly. It wasn''t an intense affection, but it carried a warmth.


    They actually appreciated Ranita more. If Ranita hadn''t divorced Brendon, they would have wished


    them well and yed the role of good friends. But since Ranita got divorced and was kicked out of


    Bouldend Mansion, they didn''t necessarily want to pursue her. They just wanted to show a certain


    attitude.


    Although Ranita didn''te from an outstanding background and was rtively weak in Kurima,


    she had friends around her. And because she was talented enough, even without Brendon, she


    wouldn''tck high-quality suitors.


    They wanted to help Ranita.


    The two looked at each other and smiled.


    They probably understood each other''s thoughts.


    "Brendon is really something else! He has such a great wife but he still wants to mess around with


    Shannon!" Steve lit up a cigarette for himself and suddenly said, "Ranita doesn''t like men who


    smoke."


    "Should I quit then?" Chris put out his cigarette in the ashtray and started drinking small sips of


    alcohol.


    "It''s unlikely that you''ll quit... You should be able to tell that Ranita likes Brendon but that idiot


    doesn''t know anything."


    Onlookers could see clearly that Ranita''s feelings for Brendon were deeply ingrained in all aspects


    of her life and work. If it weren''t for love, which woman could tolerate Brendon''s major w?


    Chris chuckled lightly while propping his chin up with his hand. "Although that may be true,


    increasingpetitiveness is also good!"


    "Then I''ll quit too!" Steve quickly put down his cigarette as well, rinsed his mouth with alcohol before


    sighing, "I''ll increase mypetitiveness too."

 Chapter 176 CanT Help It

    Chapter 176 Can''T Help It


    Chapter 176 Can''t Help It


    Ranita returned home and called Jedidiah back on the phone.


    "Brother..." She softly called him as Jedidiah took a deep breath before speaking gently, "You''re


    home so soon?"


    "Yeah... I went out for dinner with some friends today," after several seconds of silence passed by,


    Ranita finally asked, "Is there something you need me for?"


    Their contact had decreased over the past few years due to Jedidiah going abroad initially being


    busy followed by Rantiaing over Kurima where she became upied with studies as well as


    work.


    Their rtionship gradually grew distant.


    "Mom''s birthday ising up soon; are youing back this year?" After pausing briefly, Jedidiah


    lowered his voice, "It wasn''t too bad when we were still studying. You woulde back once or


    twice every year but these past two or three years, you''ve disappearedpletely except when you


    came back on business trips in Stnd just so we could have dinner together. Mom feels pretty sad


    about it."


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    As Rantia listened, she felt somewhat bitter inside. She wasn''t unwilling to go back, it was just that


    she couldn''t bring herself do it .


    "Recently, there have been some changes in my work here. I don''t think I''ll be as busy, so I should


    be able to go back home for a visit," Ranita said, pausing before adding, "If I can''t make it for Mom''s


    birthday, I''ll send the gift to you and you can give it to her."


    "Ranita!" Jedidiah was a little angry but quickly calmed down. She was his beloved sister of over


    years - how could he bear to scold her?


    "You bring the gift yourself. You can give it to Mom yourself. I''m not going to help you pass it on,"


    Jedidiah sighed helplessly. "You''ve moved your household registration away and stayed in Kurima


    withouting back for long enough. It''s time for all this anger between us to dissipate! You should


    come back. Everyone at home misses you."


    Ranita lowered her eyes with mixed emotions and replied softly, "Okay... I''ll find time toe back."


    "Brother, sorry but there''s something urgent that needs my attention right now."


    Jedidiah had always been understanding. Though he was not happy, he still nodded and said,


    "Alright, go ahead and do what you need to!"


    After ending the call, Ranita remained lost in thought.


    As she packed up her thingster on, Ranita found a small photo from deep inside her purse- a


    picture of herself with Jedidiah.


    At Bouldend Mansion.


    Brendon stood hesitating by the window wondering whether or not he should call Ranita when


    Shannon called out from behind him.


    "Brendon!" She hugged him lightly from behind with her face pressed against his back while


    coquettishly asking if he wanted to go out for a walk together.


    Brendon felt ufortable being held like this by Shannon so he pushed her away frowningly


    saying, "Shannon, don''t be so boring."


    Shannon looked very aggrieved because she knew that Brendon was always hugging and kissing


    Ranita whenever they were together - why couldn''t she do the same? After all wasn''t Brendon more


    interested in herself than anyone else?


    "I''m sorry Brendon! Sometimes my feelings just get out of control!" Shannon let go of him then


    looked up at him with watery eyes filled with misty tears as she continued, "We''ve already done


    more intimate things between us than just hugging or kissing each other¡­you are my first man after


    all¡­so sometimes¡­I really can''t control myself! Sorry Brendon!"


    Shannon''s behavior made Brendon appear petty and overly concerned. He felt restless inside. He


    couldn''t let go of Ranita, but Shannon was bing a big problem. Ultimately, it was he who had


    hurt Shannon.


    "Shannon, I haven''t divorced yet," Brendon made up an excuse.


    But what was really going on inside, only he knew.


    Shannon bit her lip and lowered her head, feeling guilty. "I''m sorry, Brendon. It''s all my fault that


    you''re in this difficult situation," she said, on the verge of tears again.

 Chapter 177 Showing Weakness

    Chapter 177 Showing Weakness


    Chapter 177 Showing Weakness


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Shannon knew that if she showed enough weakness and looked pitiful enough, Brendon wouldn''t


    be able to refuse her. This was her winning strategy ¨C it had never failed before.


    "Shannon, I''m a little tired and want to rest for a bit. Can you leave?" Brendon made an excuse and


    didn''t want to continue discussing these matters.


    Hearing this, Shannon grabbed his sleeve with a distressed expression on her face. "Brendon, do


    you hate me?" she asked.


    "How could I? Don''t think too much about it," Brendon replied calmly. He didn''t dislike Shannon but


    he also didn''t particrly like her either ¨C he used to have trouble distinguishing between the two


    feelings but now he understood that he only felt brotherly affection towards Shannon along with


    some guilt and responsibility.


    "That''s good! As long as you don''t hate me then I''m satisfied!" Shannon rubbed her reddened eyes


    and continued speaking in a small voice. "But... Aunt, Holly and everyone at Bouldend Mansion


    know about our rtionship so can you not push me away when we''re outside? Otherwise I''ll lose


    face!"


    Brendon chuckled at how childish she sounded while pouting cutely. "When did I ever push you


    away? Don''t worry too much about it; just rest well since you just got out of the hospital."


    Shannon smiled sweetly before obediently leaving the room but once she turned around, she


    couldn''t maintain that expression anymore!


    Brendon wasn''t as affectionate towards her as before! What if he really did put Ranita in his heart


    instead of herself? What would happen then? Unconsciously resentment shed across Shannon''s


    eyes.


    Ever since bing pregnant, Ranita had been having trouble sleeping at night especially tonight


    when Jedidiah called which brought up emotions buried deep within causing difort inside.


    Just then, Ranita''s phone rang.


    "Hello?"


    There were some rustling sounds from the other end of the line before someone spoke up


    hesitantly, "Excuse me¡­ are you Miss Ranita?"


    "Yes¡­ is there something wrong?"


    "Here is C-club. There''s ady who''s drunk and causing a scene, and she asked me to call you.


    Can youe over and take her away? Hey hey hey..." After a chaotic noise, Mia''s voice came


    through, "Ranita... it''s me, Mia..."


    "I''m really sorry... can you forgive me?" Mia was clearly drunk, her voice tinged with tears...


    Ranita didn''t want to deal with it, but Mia was alone in Kurima working hard every day without many


    friends around her. If Ranita didn''t go, someone might take advantage of Mia.


    When Ranita arrived, Mia was lying on the table like a drunken shrimp and wouldn''t move. If Ranita


    hadn''t instructed one of the staff members to keep an eye on her, she would have been taken away


    by now.


    Ranita handed over the tip and had someone help put Mia in the car.


    It wasn''t possible for Ranita to send her home alone so she went to a nearby hotel room instead.


    Along the way, Mia kept clinging onto Ranita''s hand saying sorry while crying hysterically.


    After tossing and turning untilte at night, Ranita was too tired and fell asleep.


    "Ring ring!"


    The sound woke up Ranita as she fumbled for her phone and answered hoarsely, "Hello?"


    The call was from Caleb asking her to pack up and go on business trip with Brendon to Qaesburg. It


    would take about fifteen minutes for him to arrive at the front of her house. Ranita massaged her


    dizzy head, said dryly, "I''m not at home. Let Brendon go first. I''ll be thereter."


    The next second, Brendon''s maic voice came through, "Where are you?"

 Chapter 178 The BrotherS Message

    Chapter 178 The Brother''S Message


    Chapter 178 The Brother''s Message


    It was 7:28 in the morning now, and Ranita wasn''t at home. Where could she be?


    "Where are you?" Brendon asked again.


    Ranita lost track of time and replied nasally, "Something came upst night so I stayed at a hotel."


    A hotel?


    Brendon didn''t want to specte, but many thoughts flooded his mind. He asked, "Why did you


    suddenly stay in a hotel?"


    Ranita didn''t want to say. "Something came up." She paused before changing the subject, "I''m


    going back home now to pack my things for the airport. We can fly together if I make it in time. If


    not, you can fly first."


    After hanging up, Ranita looked over only to see Mia fall off the bed while holding on to a nket.


    Brendon also heard thismotion. "What''s going on over there?"


    "Nothing, I hung up!" Ranita hung up too quickly, and Brendon could only guess that there were


    other people in her room.


    Was this other person the "brother" she mentioned yesterday? Brendon frowned at his phone in


    thought.


    "Mr. Stuart, Miss Bowman ..." Caleb asked nervously. "Would you like to go to Qaesburg first?"


    Brendon checked his watch. "Change my flight."


    Ranita helped Mia up and patted her face. "Mia, wake up! Wake up!"


    Mia looked a bit confused as she looked at Ranita for a while before remembering something and


    her face turned pale. "I''m sorry, I drank too muchst night."


    "I didn''t mean to trouble you." This was their first conversation after their argument and it was


    awkward between them.


    Ranita nodded lightly. "You''re sober now so I''ll leave first."


    "Ranita!" Mia grabbed her hand before she left. "I don''t expect you to forgive me but I just want to


    say sorry..."


    Mia''s apology was sincere but she didn''t regret what she did because of the money involved.


    "I have something else to do so I''ll leave now," Ranita said with a heavy heart as they used to be


    partners fighting side by side but now they were falling apart due to this incident.


    Ranita couldn''t forgive what Mia had done.


    "Ranita..."


    "We''re not friends anymore! This is my final kindness towards you; please don''te bother me


    again! Oh yeah, please settle the room fee," Ranita said coldly before leaving without looking back.


    The sunrise was beautiful but Ranita wasn''t in the mood for admiring it as she drove back home


    alone feeling upset about everything that happened today.


    As soon as she opened the door of her apartment, someone pulled her inside with a loud thud


    against the door behind them.


    "Brendon... what are you doing here?" Ranita froze since he should still be at the airport.


    Ranita has traveled with him on many business trips.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    The first time Brendon left her and flew back to Kurima directly, she was quite heartbroken. But as


    they went on more trips together, she became immune to it. She no longer expected Brendon to


    amodate her time.


    "I''ve been waiting for you!" Brendon leaned closer and whispered into her ear while sniffing around


    trying not find any strange smells on or around Ranita''s body making him feel relieved finally.


    "You waited for me? Isn''t urgent right now in Qaesburg? You could have gone ahead¡­" Her ears


    started itching from his breath causing redness creeping down onto neck area which made him


    move away slightly from herself.


    "I''ll go wash my face and pack some things first," she went into bathroom without saying where


    exactly did she go making Brendon''s mood even more anxious than ever before.


    Brendon waited for a while, thinking about asking Caleb to bring breakfast over. Suddenly, her


    phone on the table received a message.


    Brendon saw the sender''s name - "Brother" - and read the message, "Ranita, I n to go to Kurima


    and see you."

 Chapter 179 The Taste Of Gossip

    Chapter 179 The Taste Of Gossip


    Chapter 179 The Taste of Gossip


    Brendon stared at her phone for a moment but no new messages came in. He knew Ranita''s phone


    password and wanted to open it up and take a closer look but found that the password was


    incorrect! Brendon was dumbfounded! When did Ranita change her password?


    A wave of displeasure washed over Brendon as he nned on asking Ranita about it. Just then,


    she walked out quickly and snatched her phone from his hand. "What are you doing with my


    phone?" she asked.


    "I... my phone is dead so I wanted to use yours to call Caleb," Brendon replied after taking a deep


    breath. He then asked, "Did you change your password?"


    "Mm-hmm," Ranita replied nonchntly before walking away with her phone.


    Brendon felt like he had just had a heart attack. She never used passwords to him before!


    Ranita unlocked her screen and saw Jedidiah''s message; after some thought, she replied, "I''m


    going on business trip in Qaesburg; let me know when you''reing." It wasn''t that she was


    avoiding him; she really did have work obligations.


    "When are you leaving? And when will you be back?" Jedidiah asked.


    "I''m leaving today but I don''t know when I''ll be back," said Ranita who always let Brendon decide


    their travel itinerary since they were traveling together for work purposes.


    Ranita thought for a moment and replied, "Let''s talk about itter! I''ll pack my things first, and then


    we can chat."


    Ranita swiftly packed her belongings because she was used to traveling. She had a set of luggage


    specifically for business trips, with everything she needed. She just had to add some fresh clothes.


    In the car, Brendon remained unusually silent.


    Since the trip came up suddenly, Ranita called Olivia to instruct her on handling certain matters.


    Ranita spoke calmly and clearly, her voice neither sharp nor overly sweet, but refreshingly pleasant.


    Brendon asionally listened to her speak and became captivated by her words.


    "What are you looking at me for?" Ranita said after hanging up the call. She looked up only to find


    that Brendon was staring at her silently with unblinking eyes. Fora moment, she felt a chill run down


    her spine.


    "Just waiting for you to finish your call," said Brendon after pausing briefly. He handed over a thick


    stack of important documents, "This project information, you should take a look."


    After scanning through them, Ranita saw that Allen was currently in the hospital, and since this was


    a crucial time, Brendon had to go there himself in order to gain apetitive edge. However, this


    project didn''t actually require her presence.


    "Hmm... It seems like there isn''t any need for me here, right?"


    She wondered if they should turn around now before reaching the airport since there wasn''t much


    point in continuing forward anymore.


    "In case of any unexpected situations," Brendon said, leaving Ranita speechless. He was the boss,


    and his word was final.


    Ranita didn''t argue and instead focused on reviewing the data again. Even if it was just a


    precautionary measure, she needed to be familiar with the information in case anything happened.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    As they boarded first ss, Ranita heard a surprised voice say, "Mr. Stuart? What a coincidence!


    Are you traveling to Qaesburg for business?"


    "Hello Ms. Sutton," Brendon nodded politely.


    Ranita knew Paityn from before - she was the one who had mocked her dress as being fake at their


    last encounter. She couldn''t believe they were running into each other again.


    "How coincidental!" Paityn''s plump face smiled insincerely as she looked Ranita up and down. "Miss


    Bowman, you''re here too! I remember you fromst time."


    "Is that so? Your memory is impressive," Ranita replied coolly as she took Brendon''sptop bag and


    ced it in their luggagepartment.


    She thought that would be enough to shut Paityn up but apparently not - Paityn continued speaking


    with an even more condescending tone, "Of course! How could I forget you after seeing you wear


    the same dress as Miss Murphy?"


    This group of people was already eye-catching enough.


    When Paityn made that remark, the other passengers in the cabin, as well as the flight attendants,


    turned their heads with curiosity. They could sense the scent of gossip!

 Chapter 180 Stirring Up Trouble

    Chapter 180 Stirring Up Trouble


    Chapter 180 Stirring Up Trouble


    Paityn wore a malicious smile on her face. She was very active on social media and never feared


    being watched. She continued speaking, undeterred by the attention she was attracting, "Ah, it was


    mainly because I was impressed by that dress. I immediately remembered you, Miss Bowman."


    Her tone carried a hint of contempt, as if to say that if it weren''t for Ranita imitating Shannon by


    wearing a simr dress, she wouldn''t even spare a nce at Ranita!


    Ranita maintained aposed expression and replied calmly, "Thank you for your kind words, Ms.


    Sutton."


    Ranita remained unmoved.


    "Heh... Miss Bowman, you''re quite interesting!" Paityn felt disgusted. She wasn''t sure if Ranita


    genuinely couldn''t understand her sarcasm or if she was pretending not to. Initially, she had


    intended to mock Ranita, but now she felt frustrated instead.


    "Thank you for your praise!" Ranita responded lightly.


    Paityn was further infuriated.


    "Ms. Sutton, why don''t you take a seat? You''re blocking the people behind you!" Brendon couldn''t


    bear it any longer and reminded Paityn.


    Brendon sat next to Ranita while Paityn sat across from them separated by an aisle seat.


    Ranita ignored Paityn''s asional hostile nces and asked the flight attendant for a nket


    before drifting off to sleep. She was exhausted. The ne ride was smooth, and Ranita slept


    soundly until Brendon woke her up with a shout, "Have some food!" He handed her a cup of coffee.


    "Thanks," she said, taking the cup but not drinking it. After breakfast, she asked the flight attendant


    to rece it with warm water so she could continue sleeping.


    Paityn tried several times to pick fights with Ranita but failed each time.


    The nended, and Ranita went to the restroom. As soon as she entered, Paitynughed behind


    her back, "Young people these days have such thick skin."


    Ranita didn''t respond; instead, she focused on doing her own thing.


    She decided not to engage with Paityn. After all, what could Paityn do to her? They didn''t have any


    personal grudges, and it wouldn''t be appropriate to resort to physical violence.


    As for the verbal attacks, in this day and age, everyone encountered people who didn''t like them. It


    was best to brush it off and not let it bother her. Calling them names would be stooping to their level.


    "Miss Bowman!" Unexpectedly, Paityn stopped her in the hallway.


    "What is it?" Ranita looked at Paityn coldly yet elegantly like an aristocraticdy from a wealthy


    family.


    "It''s nothing," said Paityn spitefully. "I just can''t stand people who have such thick skin."


    "After what happenedst time," continued Paityn maliciously while referring to Shannon and


    Brendon''s rtionship that everyone knew about in their social circle. "I thought you wouldn''t dare


    show your face around Mr. Stuart again! But here you are sticking closer than ever!"


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s just work," replied Ranita coolly before walking past Paityn out of the restroom without another


    word spoken between them.


    Brendon always prioritized his work over everything else; after getting off the ne, he went straight


    to Qaesburg''s branch office for meetings while Ranita headed directly towards Allen''s hospital


    room.


    The Stuart family treated Ranita poorly or even badly at times because of their prejudice against


    outsiders marrying into their family circle. However, Allen was different - he had always been kind-


    hearted towards his cousin''s wife calling her "sister-inw" affectionately.


    "Sister-inw! Is that really you? Why are you here?" Alleny on his bed smiling brightly despite


    having one arm cast and bruises all over his face.


    In the Stuart family, Brendon was considered good-looking, and the others also had attractive


    appearances. Even Holly, who can be quite explosive at times, had a decent face.


    Allen had gotten a bit tanned, but he appeared to be in good spirits.


    "I came with Brendon," Allen said.


    "What? My cousin is here? Wasn''t he supposed toe tomorrow? Why did hee now? Ahhh!"


    Allen grabbed his hair in frustration, his face drooping.

 Chapter 181 Cousin

    Chapter 181 Cousin


    Chapter 181 Cousin


    For Allen, this was like a bolt from the blue.


    "Sister-inw, I''m done for! I''m done for!" Allen was panicked. "Brendon is going to kill me!"


    Ranita couldn''t help butugh and tease him. "What''s the difference between being killed today or


    tomorrow? So himing today or tomorrow doesn''t make a difference!"


    "You can''t say that! As a rich and good-looking nobody, every day of survival counts!"


    Allen''s handsome face fell. "My life is over!"


    Ranita felt sorry for him and tried tofort him. "Brendon went to the branchpany, so you''re


    safe for now."


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    "What? He went to thepany?" Allen didn''t rx at all and immediately felt dizzy. "How could he


    be so ruthless? I''m his cousin after all! He didn''t evene see me first before going to find trouble


    with me at work!"


    Ranita held back herughter.


    "That''s right! If you keep acting rashly like this, Brendon will really send you off to another country!"


    Ranita wanted to scare Allen into behaving himself before he got hurt!


    But Allen refused to go anywhere else.


    "Sister-inw, please save me!" Allen grabbed her hand and begged her pitifully. "My life is in your


    hands now! You have to protect me!"


    Ranita pped his hand hard enough that it made him yelp in pain.


    "If Brendon gets angry with you and beats you up, there''s nothing I can do about it." She paused


    briefly before continuing reluctantly. After all...


    Allen probably didn''t know about their divorce yet; otherwise he would have already rushed back


    home like a firecracker!


    "What else were you going to say? Why did you stop?" Seeing Ranita looking downcast made Allen


    worry even more. "Did something happen between you and my cousin?"


    Allen didn''t really believe it though.


    Brendon treated Ranita with respect as if she was royalty; she tolerated everything Brendon did


    withoutint - there was no way they could ever fight!


    "Nothing happened! Just tired from flying." Ranita brushed off his question then asked concernedly,


    "How''s your hand doing? Is it better now? If something had happened why wouldn''t you call us right


    away?! You''re too brave sometimes."


    It wasn''t that he wasn''t willing ¨C he just couldn''t bring himself too!


    Allen was the eldest son of Brendon''s uncle. He grew up being doted on but unfortunately lost his


    mother due to illness. His father, also grieving, passed away not long after, leaving Allen alone and


    destitute.


    Fortunately, he had a close rtionship with Brendon from a young age and became Brendon''s


    loyal follower. After Brendon became the head of the Stuart family, Allen naturally rose with the tide.


    "I didn''t want to trouble you all! It''s just a minor injury, and I''ll recover quickly..." Allen didn''t finish his


    sentence before he heard Ranita''s softughter. Annoyed, he said, "Sister-inw, please don''t


    Allen used to y around a lot but was an honest person who couldn''t stand sneaky things. He was


    invited to a club and saw someone harassing a new college student waitress. He kindly helped her


    out but ended up injuring himself and being sent to the hospital.


    "This time you really did something wrong. You got injured yourself and also dyed your brother''s


    project that he put so much effort into..." Seeing Allen looking downcast, Ranita changed the


    subject, "You should rest well and leave everything to Brendon when hees."


    "Anyway... Brendon definitely won''t lose out."


    Brendon may be indifferent towards love but he was good at making money.

 Chapter 182 My Heart Flies Away

    Chapter 182 My Heart Flies Away


    Chapter 182 My Heart Flies Away


    With Brendon personally taking care of things, Allen felt relieved. But thinking about how much


    money he would lose made him unhappy.


    He looked pitifully at Ranita and said, "Sister-inw, I want some strawberries. Can you wash some


    for me?"


    Allen was the best person in Bouldend Mansion towards her.


    And whether it was genuine or fake sincerity, Ranita could see clearly that Allen truly regarded her


    as his respected sister-inw.


    Ranita went off to wash strawberries.


    "Sister-inw... why do I feel like your face has be much sharper?" It had been awhile since


    Allen had seen Ranita; upon closer inspection she seemed not only thinner in the face but overall


    weight loss too!


    "The weather is getting hot. I can''t eat anything." Ranita gave him an evasive answer which


    satisfied him enough for now. She handed over the sparkling strawberries to her saying, "Sister-in-


    law this is from my friend in Dago who air shipped them over here for me. They''re really sweet. Try


    one!"


    "I wanted to send them over for you as soon as I received them but then suddenly ended up in


    hospital so couldn''t send any more."


    Ranita took one from his hand and took a bite- sour yet sweet taste filled her mouth. At first she only


    thought it tasted good, but after eating several pieces, she found herself suddenly addicted.


    "If you like them, sister-inw, take these with you when you go backter. I''ll call my friendter


    tonight asking if they can send more over¡­" Before finishing his sentence, the door of his ward


    suddenly opened wide.


    Allen timidly called out ,"Cousin¡­"


    "You guys keep talking! I can see that you''re having a good time here!" Brendon''s dark gaze was


    enough to make Allen''s scalp tingle with fear.


    Allen looked at Ranita and mouthed, "Help me, sister-inw!"


    "I''m talking to you, why are you looking at Ranita?" Brendon frowned, his displeasure growing.


    "No! I wasn''t looking at my sister-inw!" Allen shook his head. "Hehe... cousin, didn''t you go to the


    company? Why did youe back so soon?"


    As soon as Allen finished speaking, he felt Brendon''s expression worsen. He quickly tried to make


    up for it. "Brendon, don''t misunderstand me. I''m not saying that I don''t wee your visit. It''s just


    that since you and my sister-inw just got off the ne, it would be better if you rested first."


    "Ahem!" Ranita cleared her throat as a hint for Allen to shut up.


    "Okay... I won''t say anything else!" The best way to deal with Brendon was to admit fault and


    apologize!


    He said, "Cousin, I''m sorry! This is all my fault and I am willing to take responsibility."


    Brendon didn''t say anything but his unfriendly gaze made Allen tremble in fear.


    After visiting the hospital, Ranita went back to the hotel only be told she had been assigned a suite


    with Brendon.... this was very annoying.From N?velDrama.Org.


    After leaving the hospital, Brendon went out again without telling Ranita where he was going.


    Ranita couldn''t ask him so she washed strawberries while watching TV.


    Time passed slowly.


    Brendon still hadn''t returned.


    In her drowsiness, Ranita seemed like she fell asleep.


    "Click!"


    She woke up when she heard the sound of someone opening the door. Ranita rubbed her eyes and


    looked towards the door in confusion.


    In dim light, a tall figure slowly walked towards her.


    "Brendon... you''re back?"


    "Mmm," he responded as he took off his tie and casually ced it on table before sitting next to her,


    hisrge body leaning against hers, his furry head resting on her shoulder...


    Just like before, someone was waiting for him after work.


    At this moment, Brendon felt like his heart would fly away.

 Chapter 183 Holding Her In His Arms

    Chapter 183 Holding Her In His Arms


    Chapter 183 Holding Her in His Arms


    She still smelled of strawberries.


    Brendon noticed something on her lips, and leaned over, kissing them lightly. The kiss carried a


    drunken scent.


    Ranita''a ears turned red immediately, and stared nkly at Brendon. Her voice became distorted,


    "What happened?"


    Why did he suddenly kiss her?


    Her heart stirred again, but also afraid.


    "Mmm, smells good!" Brendon buried half of his face in Ranita''s shoulder, his voice nasal and


    heavy. "What did you eat?"


    "Strawberries..." Ranita paused before continuing, "Allen gave them to me. They taste really good."


    Brendon was still leaning on her shoulder.


    Having had a few drinks, he seemed a bit tipsy andzy in his movements and speech.


    "Let me try some," he said.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    There had been a te with several strawberries on it. Now there were only a few left that Ranita


    had eaten. The color wasn''t as bright anymore since they''d been sitting under the air conditioning


    for too long - they didn''t look very appetizing.


    "Do you want to eat them?" Ranita hesitated to ask.


    Brendon would eat fruit but rarely ate strawberries.


    "Yeah!" Brendon repliedzily as he flipped over onto most of Ranita''s body, his arm wrapped


    around her waist.


    Ranita stiffened her back even more than before.


    Her heart was racing uncontrobly.


    She really couldn''t resist Brendon at all!


    Sighing inwardly, she took one strawberry and peeled off the green leaves before offering it up to


    him. "Open your mouth," she said softly.


    Brendon looked at her with dark eyes then lowered his head and bit down on the strawberry along


    with her fingers.


    He scraped against them but it didn''t hurt; instead it felt kind of ticklish.


    "Why did you bite my finger?" Her cheeks were burning hot as she pulled away from him quickly


    only for him to lean in closer for a kiss thatsted longer than expected.


    The scent of alcohol hit her hard making her feel drunk too.


    Ranita grabbed onto Brendon''s sleeve while sinking into his embrace; breathless from their


    passionate kiss.


    "I''m going to take a shower." Brendon unbuttoned his shirt then stood up heading towards the


    bathroom. Water could be heard running loudly through pipes like waves crashing against rocks by


    the shore.


    Ranita knew what was going to happen next better than anyone else. She felt anxious but mostly


    just sad about everything that was happening between them right now.


    She should leave this ce but somehow couldn''t bring herself to move an inch forward no matter


    how hard she tried.


    "Ranita... my clothes are in my suitcase. Can you grab them for me?" Brendon''s voice came


    through muffled by the sound of rushing water from inside the bathroom. That cuased Ranita snap


    out of thoughts momentarily handing over Brendon''s pajamas without looking directly at him.


    Through the bathroom door, Ranita said, "Brendon, I''ve gotten a room downstairs. I''m heading


    down now."


    "Creak."


    The bathroom door opened. He had only a towel around his waist, his upper body strong and sexy


    with water droplets clinging to it.


    Brendon nced at her, "What did you just say?"


    Under pressure, Ranita met his gaze, coolly saying, "I said I''m going to my room."


    She was waiting here not because she wanted to stay, but out of concern for him. Ranita turned


    around and walked away.


    Brendon chased after her, wrapping his long arms around her from behind and squeezing her


    hands tightly with his damp palms.


    "You''reing to live with me," he said.


    "I don''t want to," Ranita shook her head. "Brendon, things are different now between us."


    "What''s different? As long as we''re not divorced yet, you''re still my wife. It''s only natural that we live


    together."


    Ranita listened, feeling her heart skip a beat or two. Was he doing this on purpose or was he really


    that clueless? Did he have to torture her like this?


    She grabbed onto his hand but before she could exert any force, he flipped her over and held her in


    his embrace while kissing her.

 Chapter 184 Reunited Lovers?

    Chapter 184 Reunited Lovers?


    Chapter 184 Reunited Lovers?


    Ranita found herself on the bed with Brendon towering over her. "Are you angry again?" He asked.


    "No!" Ranita was both angry and annoyed but not at Brendon - she was mad at herself for being so


    weak-willed.


    Her anger dissipated easily when Brendon kissed away all of it. Her ears and neck turned red from


    embarrassment as she tried to avoid looking at him but failed miserably since he wouldn''t let go of


    their embrace.


    His fingers were clearly visible as they rested on the underside of chin before pulling it back up


    towards him. "You''ve been getting angry a lottely," He observed.


    "I haven''t!" Even if she did get mad sometimes, it was because of this man!


    "I''m not unreasonable either." Brendon raised an eyebrow while chuckling softly. "Am I?"


    "What do you think? Can you let go?!" Since she couldn''t leave, she decided to go with the flow.


    Ranita was helpless.


    Brendon''s arm crossed her back, pulling her tightly into his embrace. Leaning down, he whispered


    by her lips, "You also said I''m unreasonable."


    "Ranita, I''ve missed you a little!" Brendon continued to kiss her tenderly.


    Ranita''s heart began to burn, and she melted into his arms, feeling dizzy. Brendon was much


    gentler than before, as if holding a precious treasure in his hands.


    Ranita''s heart sank into a beautiful dream.


    "Ring ring..." Suddenly, Ranita''s phone rang.


    Blushing, Ranita pushed herself away. "I''ll take this call."


    Brendon reached out to help her grab the phone. In a quick nce, he saw the caller ID and a


    flicker of displeasure crossed his eyes. "Is it your brother again?"


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Hearing this, Ranita quickly got up in a panic. "You should get up first!" Seeing how worried she


    looked, Brendon became even more displeased asking sarcastically, "Are you always going be


    nervous around your brother?"


    Rolling eyes, Ranita shot Brendon an irritated look.


    If Jedidiah knew that she not only got married but also nned to get divorced, he would probably


    be furious enough to want to beat Brendon to death!


    "Give me the phone!" Ranita grabbed her phone, got out of bed and gathered her clothes, rushing


    into the room to answer the call.


    As soon as she answered, Ranita shouted, "Brother!"


    "Why did it take so long for you to answer? Have you arrived in Qaesburg?"


    Ranita replied with a sound of agreement. "Yes, I just got here and was about to go to sleep! Is


    there something wrong that you called sote?" She hesitated before asking.


    Jedidiah''s voice was gentle. "Sorry for disturbing you sote! I just received notice that I have to go


    to Qaesburg tomorrow. If you have time, let''s meet up."


    "What? You''reing to Qaesburg?" Ranita felt a little uneasy.


    "Yes, I''m going there for a project."


    "Why are you personally handling this project?" Ranita asked another question. Jedidiah didn''t find


    it annoying but immediately exined, "I''ve been studying abroad before and haven''t had much


    contact withpany affairs. I want more practice."


    Ranita smiled mischievously, "Then brother, good luck."


    "If we both have time tomorrow night, we can go out for dinner together," Jedidiah suggested.


    After making ns, Ranita hung up the phone and turned around only to see Brendon leaning


    against the door frame watching her with an icy expression on his face.


    "You''re going out for dinner tomorrow night?" Brendon raised his eyebrows suspiciously as he


    approached her. He pressed his palm against her lower back while looking at her coldly and asked


    usingly, "A date?"


    Was it an old lover meeting again?! It could be imagined what kind of sparks would fly between


    them! Just thinking about it made Brendon feel like he had been soaked in lemon juice; sour


    enough that he wanted nothing more than tie up Ranita!

 Chapter 185 Meeting Up

    Chapter 185 Meeting Up


    Chapter 185 Meeting Up


    Ranita winced under his pressure.


    "It''s not a date; we''re just going out for dinner," she said after thinking about it briefly. "I looked over


    my schedule and don''t think they''ll need me much tomorrow night anyway."


    "ording to our contract terms, once my work is done, I can arrange my own schedule."


    "You seem pretty eager!"


    "It''s not like that; mainly because we haven''t seen each other in such a long time..." With lowered


    eyes, Ranita spoke softly sounding sad which made even her eyshes tremble slightly.


    Seeing how she pursed lips pitifully, Brendon felt ufortable inside himself.


    "Do you really have to see him?" He opened his thin lips lightly.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "I already promised him; how could I not go?" Pushing away from Brendon, Ranita said, "You


    should loosen your grip on me now, I can hardly breathe."


    Instead of listening, Brendon pinched her hard as if venting all of his anger onto poor girl.


    Ranita grabbed his finger and giggled as she was pinched tightly, "Brendon, stop tickling me, it''s so


    itchy! Hahaha... you better let go soon or I''ll hit you!"


    It was more like acting cute than threatening.


    Brendon''s heart softened as he lifted Ranita onto the bed and looked at her with dark, intense eyes.


    "Hit me!" he said.


    Ranita''s heart was filled with warmth as she blushed with embarrassment.


    "Do you really think I''m afraid?" Ranita raised her small fist and punched him, with a flirtatious look


    in her eyes.


    "Like a cat scratching!" Brendon''s narrow eyes curved, and he chuckled softly with a maic and


    sexyughter.


    It sent Ranita''s heart racing.


    The atmosphere was right, and Brendon started kissing her again.


    The deep kiss came to an end.


    Ranita remained calm and kept her hand on his chest. She said, "Brendon, to be honest, I''m not


    reallyfortable with this."


    It was a bit disappointing.


    But with Ranita''s reasoning, Brendon had no choice! He rested his head on her shoulder and


    nuzzled a few times like a puppy, expressing his reluctance.


    Ranita''s hands fell on his waist.


    "Sorry."


    After a while, Brendon sat up and said, "No need to apologize! It''s gettingte, let''s go to bed!"


    "Hmm!" Ranitay beside him, feelingplex emotions.


    No matter how much he hurt her heart, she always trusted him and felt safe as long as she was by


    his side.


    During the day, Brendon was busy with social engagements, and she was also busy with her own


    affairs.


    Night fell.


    Ranita received the restaurant address sent by Jedidiah and arrived on time.


    "Brendon, I have sent the information you requested to your email! If you have social engagements


    tonight, try not to drink too much."


    While waiting, Ranita sent Brendon a message.


    "Ranita!"


    Just as she hit send, a warm voice sounded above her head. Ranita looked up in surprise to see


    Jedidiah, and her eyes began to well up with tears.


    "Brother!"


    Jedidiah gave her a hug, "Little girl, long time no see."


    Jedidiah went abroad for further studies six years ago and never came back after graduation.


    Instead, he had been traveling all around the world.


    "Yeah... Long time no see." Ranita lowered her eyes and choked up before finally asking, "How are


    Mom and Dad?"


    Ranita asked nervously.


    Jedidiah rubbed her head and sighed, "It''s okay, but they keep saying you nevere back. They


    miss you."


    "They do?" Ranita didn''t know how to answer. She missed her family too, it was just...


    "Of course!" Jedidiah paused and continued, "Several years have passed, and Chloe has be


    much more mature and stable."


    For so many years, she dared not go back to Stnd or her family, all in order to avoid Chloe


    Bowman.

 Chapter 186 Not Fit For Public Viewing?

    Chapter 186 Not Fit For Public Viewing?


    Chapter 186 Not Fit for Public Viewing?


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "That''s good!" Ranita lowered her eyshes and changed the subject, "Brother, I''m hungry. Let''s


    order quickly!"


    Jedidiah immediately said, "Let''s not talk about that. Order your food quickly, don''t get too hungry."


    "This restaurant was rmended by my friend. The ingredients are very fresh and the taste is


    also good. You should eat moreter."


    "Great!" Ranita flipped through the menu and ordered several of her favorite dishes besides fish.


    "Why not order fish? I remember you love it and wanttro on top," Jedidiah paused before


    adding, "Let me add a steamed fish for you!"


    "No need! I''m tired of it. I want to try a different vor," said Ranita. She had been experiencing


    morning sickness recently and could tolerate other foods, but the sight of fish made her feel


    nauseous.


    When Jedidiah asked herter, she didn''t know how to answer.


    "Sure!" Jedidiah smiled gently. "It''s good to try something new."


    Jedidiah still felt a bit sad that in just a few years, he didn''t know that she stopped liking fish.


    The meal was not awkward, but the atmosphere was not good either.


    "Ranita... you have changed so much over the years. You used to always chatter and pout, asking


    for this and that from me..."


    "Brother, that was such a long time ago." Ranita scolded Jedidiah with a pout, looking more like a


    little girl than usual.


    After dinner, Ranita followed Jedidiah out.


    "Ranita?"


    At the door, Ranita was so scared by Brendon that she almost ran away! But it was toote, not


    only her, but Jedidiah also heard it.


    "Who is that? He seems to be calling you!"


    As he walked to the doorway, Jedidiah sized up Brendon and felt that he looked familiar, but


    couldn''t recall where they had met before.


    "Ranita, who is this?"


    Ranita thought for a moment and introduced, "This is Brendon from Stuart''s Corp, he''s kind of my


    boss!"


    As for the rest, since it was all going to end anyway, there was no need to bring it up.


    "It turns out to be Mr. Stuart! I''ve heard so much about you!" Jedidiah politely extended his hand,


    but noticed that Brendon had been scrutinizing him the whole time!


    It took a while before he extended his hand to shake his.


    "I''ve long been looking forward to meeting you! May I ask how should I address you?"


    Jedidiah was about to leave when Ranita stopped him and said, "Brother, Mr. Stuart may have


    something to discuss with me. You don''t need to apany me, I''ll go back on my ownter."


    Jedidiah looked at Ranita, then looked at Brendon.


    He had a gut feeling that Brendon''s gaze was off, but couldn''t figure out why. So, he nodded at


    Brendon and said, "Mr. Stuart, over the years, Ranita has been grateful for your care in Kurima."


    After finishing his sentence, Jedidiah looked at Ranita with a gentle smile and rubbed her head. "I


    won''t bother you anymore. I''ll leave now. Give me a call or send me a message when you get


    back."


    "I''ll walk you out," Ranita followed Jedidiah to the roadside and watched him leave before returning.


    Ranita caught a ride with Brendon back to the hotel, but no one spoke on the way.


    Suddenly, the car hit a speed bump and Ranita choked on her water.


    "Cough cough!"


    In her panic, someone handed her some tissues.


    As she recovered, Brendon''s low voice sounded in her ear. "Ranita, is he really that person you


    mentioned before? The one you like so much that you won''t even tell me his name?"


    The light was dim but his features were still handsome.


    Ranita didn''t expect him to misunderstand like this. But there were some things she couldn''t say out


    loud. She could only say, "He''s my brother; our rtionship isn''t asplicated as you think."


    "Then why can''t we just be straightforward about it?" Brendon''s eyes turned cold and angry as he


    looked at her. "Am I not good enough for public knowledge?"

 Chapter 187 Paityn Causing Trouble

    Chapter 187 Paityn Causing Trouble


    Chapter 187 Paityn Causing Trouble


    There was an air of arrogance mixed with bitterness in his tone.


    Ranita looked at Brendon in surprise and carefully considered what to say next: Did he mind?


    "You''re my wife; shouldn''t I be bothered if another man takes you out for dinner?" Brendon threw


    the question back at Ranita without any expression on his face.


    Ranita thought about it carefully but couldn''t figure anything out from what he said or how he acted


    towards it all.


    Brendon continued speaking calmly without showing any emotion whatsoever, "Is he really your


    brother? Why have I never heard of him before?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    After Ranita came to Kurima for school, she transferred her household registration here. When she


    married Brendon, she told him that she was the only one left in her family.


    Ranita looked at Brendon, her mood indescribably gloomy. They say one lie needs countless other


    lies to cover it up, and this statement was indeed true.


    "The older brother I grew up with, he''s like a brother to me, I guess?" She admitted that she and


    Jedidiah didn''t have any blood rtion.


    "As for what exists between us, it''s better left unsaid than said," Ranita concluded in silence.


    The atmosphere inside the car became even colder once again..


    Just then Ranita''s phone rang- Olivia calling!


    "Ranita!" Olivia sounded very worried over the phone line. "Where are you?! Something big has


    happened!"


    "What happened? What do you mean?" asked Ranita confusedly.


    "I''ll show you!" replied Olivia quickly sending through Paityn''s social media ount details via text


    message: A few days ago, I attended an auction and gained a lot of knowledge.


    There were two pictures below, one of Shannon and one of Ranita. Shannon''s picture was carefully


    taken, with her wearing a blue velvet dress and exuding elegance and beauty. Meanwhile, Ranita''s


    picture only showed a side profile in the same blue velvet dress but was blurry andcked any


    aesthetic appeal.


    Fans familiar with Paityn immediately understood what she meant to convey. With someone leading


    the charge, they began attacking Ranita for being ugly and wearing fake clothing. They felt


    embarrassed for her.


    "Ranita, these people are too much! How can they attack you like this?"


    "I defended you online but got bombarded with hate messages!"


    As Olivia vented her frustration, a marketing ount released several clearer pictures of Ranita at


    the auction because of the incident involving Shannon''s blue velvet dress. This sparked lively


    discussions online.


    On social media tforms where anyone could hide behind anonymity, it was hard to tell who were


    real people or beasts in disguise. In short, everyone mocked Ranita, and others joined in on the


    mockery. People who cursed Ranita were followed by others joining in the insults.


    Paityn''s media ount originally didn''t have that much attention, but because it involved Shannon,


    Shannon''s fans suddenly emerged. Shannon''s fans mocked Ranita for trying to imitate Shannon,


    while onlookers questioned Ranita''s choice of the blue velvet dress, mocking her for not being able


    to afford genuine products, bringing shame to the country.


    In the midst of the online uproar, many people tagged the brand, hoping they woulde forward to


    protect their rights.


    The inte buzzed not only with discussions about Ranita but also about Shannon and Paityn.


    Both gained arge number of followers ¨C Shannon for her beauty and aura, and Paityn for her no-


    nonsense attitude.


    Shannon''s fans, in particr, expressed gratitude to her for standing up for what was right. The


    incident, being rted to Shannon, naturally became a focus for the media and marketing ounts,


    and Ranita also became the target of online investigations.


    "Olivia, don''t reply to those people! Don''t engage in arguments either! I''ll handle it!" After hanging up


    on Olivia, Ranita wanted to contact Marlon but Brendon grabbed her finger. His face wasn''t looking


    good and his speech was cold. "You encountered trouble, didn''t youe find me?"

 Chapter 188 The Cyberbully

    Chapter 188 The Cyberbully


    Chapter 188 The Cyberbully


    Ranita was used to solving things herself. "It is not that difficult, I will call awyer to deal with it!"


    As soon as she finished talking, Dn also called her phone. "Dn..."


    "Don''t go online," Dn paused and added, "Eve has contacted a reliable PR team to handle it. Just


    stay off the inte."


    "Theseizens have nothing better to do! And with so many paidmenters, I bet Shannon''s


    behind it..."


    Mentioning Shannon, Ranita nced at Brendon and lowered her voice, "I''ve seen it already. Don''t


    worry! You and Eve don''t need to do anything. I can handle it myself."


    Ranita sat upright with confidence, wearing her genuine blue velvet dress. She wasn''t afraid of the


    onlinements.


    Suddenly, the buzz on social media decreased asmenters and marketing ounts smelled


    blood in the water. They assumed Ranita was guilty and demanded an apology from her.


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Unfortunately for Ranita, Shannon posted a vague message, "She''s just a friend; please don''t


    specte too much."


    If she hadn''t posted anything at all, fans wouldn''t have been as upset. Now they condemned Ranita


    for imitating her as a friend.


    More people went to ES'' official website toin.


    Ranita didn''t understand the power of social media yet; she looked at Brendon calmly and said, "It''s


    not a big deal; don''t worry about it."


    Brendon was still unhappy with a cold look in his eyes.


    "If I need helpter on, I''ll let you know."


    Back at their hotel room, Brendon went into his study room but couldn''t focus on work. He hesitated


    for several seconds before calling Caleb.


    "Caleb, you take care of this matter regarding Ranita online." He paused again before adding,


    "There is another blue velvet dress by ES in Stnd. I want you to contact them immediately if we


    can get their information or use our connections there if necessary. We need that dress back


    ASAP."


    There were only two blue velvet dresses by ES in the country. Shannon had one, and there was


    another in Stnd. If they could retrieve the dress in Stnd, this problem would be solved easily.


    The truth didn''t matter. What mattered was results.


    "Mr. Stuart... actually... shouldn''t we ask Miss Bowman?" Knowing how well Caleb knew Ranita, it


    seemed unlikely that she would wear an imitation gown specifically for an auction. Maybe hers was


    real?


    As his subordinate, Caleb decided not to say more than necessary.


    "It''s okay. I''ll take care of everything right away!"


    Ranita had just finished giving Brendon some vitamins and was peeling a lemon candy when her


    phone rang from an unknown number.


    As soon as she answered, she heard someone cursing at her, "Ranita Bowman, you ugly freak!


    Look in the mirror before you try to copy Shannon''s style with your fake designer clothes! If you''re


    broke, don''t pretend to be something you''re not..."


    Ranita immediately hung up the phone and blocked the number. However, there were continuous


    calls from unfamiliar numbers, filled with a variety of insults and even some threatening remarks,


    iming they woulde to her house to witness how ugly she, the "monster," looked.


    There were also hateful text messages. Ranita btedly realized that her phone number had been


    leaked. She filtered out the unfamiliar numbers, bringing some peace to her world, but the text


    messages couldn''t be filtered, and they kepting, all filled with insults. Ranita pretended not to


    see them, but the frustration weighed heavily on her.

 Chapter 189 Shifting Blame

    Chapter 189 Shifting me


    Chapter 189 Shifting me


    Marlon suggested that Ranita report this harassment to the police, but since she was in Qaesburg it


    would be difficult for them to handle it. Instead, Marlon offered to send a legal statement on her


    behalf and gather evidence so they could take legal action if necessary.


    Ranita thanked him and promised to pay any fees needed.


    Marlon was an excellentwyer-efficient and with a strong sense of individuality. Chris''s


    rmendation really paid off; he was reliable!


    "Miss Bowman, you can rest assured that the bill will be delivered to you promptly," Marlon said with


    a smile. "Get some rest."


    After ending the call, Ranita turned to see Brendon, who handed her a ss of water. She had been


    on the phone all night, looking distressed about the online situation, but she still wouldn''t open up to


    him. Was his help really that worthless? Others couldn''t even beg for it, but she seemed determined


    not to let him help. Brendon felt really frustrated.


    "Are you done being busy?" Ranita asked as her phone kept buzzing. She silenced it and


    apologized, "Sorry, did I disturb you?"


    Brendon was about to respond when his phone suddenly received a video call. Ranita knew it had


    to be Shannon without thinking.


    She wanted to step away, give her some space, but Brendon reached out and held her back. The


    video call connected.


    Seeing two people in the frame, Shannon hesitated for a moment. Then, with a sweet and soft tone,


    she said, "Brendon, Ranita."


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Looking at the background of the room, they should be in the same room. Shannon felt a sudden


    surge of hatred and wished she could fly to Qaesburg immediately.


    "Shannon, is there something you need?" Brendon''s voice was low and expressionless, making him


    seem cold as ice.


    "Brendon, can''t I call you if there''s nothing wrong? You went on a business trip for several days and


    I miss you so much at home!"


    She sounded soft and coquettish.


    Ranita felt disgusted and angry watching her husband being flirted with right in front of her face.


    What woman could tolerate that?


    "You two talk, I''m going to the study." Ranita wanted to leave but Shannon cried out pitifully, "Ranita,


    are you upset because I called Brendon?"


    Ranita stopped in her tracks.


    "Yes! I am upset. Can''t you hang up now?"


    Shannon didn''t expect her sudden change of tone. She bit her lip as tears welled up in her eyes.


    "Ranita... I''m sorry... I didn''t mean anything by it. It''s just that I got used to having Brendon around at


    home so when he wasn''t here it felt strange so I decided to make a video call."


    "And also, I want to apologize to you about what happened online. I''ve already posted an


    announcement on my fan group telling them not to get too excited or break any rules. They''ve been


    doing really well following all the guidelines so hopefully it hasn''t caused any trouble for you!"


    Ranita was shocked by how shameless Shannon was acting.


    Most of those who called or texted insulting messages were Shannon''s fans yet she had audacity


    say they followed rules well!


    "Miss Murphy," Ranita sneered sarcastically, "Do you even know how to write ''rules'' properly?"


    This made Shannon burst into tears again as she tried hard not cry while looking extremely pitifully


    helpless. "What do you mean... what are you trying to say..."


    "What do I mean? Most people who called were shouting your name..." Ranita hadn''t finished


    speaking before Shannon started defending herself again.


    She held back sobs while looking incredibly pathetic, "Ranita, it''s not like that.... you misunderstood


    me! You know there are many haters online targeting me. Those people are beyond my control."


    It almost made Ranita feel sickughing out loud at this point.


    Shannon yed this trick very skillfully - shifting me onto others without taking responsibility


    herself! Those fans who took undeserved criticism really had it rough!

 Chapter 190 In Her Presence

    Chapter 190 In Her Presence


    Chapter 190 In Her Presence


    "If they''re beyond your control, then why bother apologizing? Mywyer has already collected


    evidence; let''s hope Miss Murphy can behave properly from now on."


    The tone of Ranita''s words became more serious with a hint mockery mixed within them.


    "Ranita... I... I really didn''t do anything!" Shannon pointed the camera at her own face, looking pitiful


    and heartbroken. "I never thought Paityn would post that kind of tweet. I''ve been trying to get her to


    delete it, but she''s not easy to persuade... I''m really sorry that I couldn''t help you."


    Shannon tried to show that she had done everything she could, but Ranita''s attitude was downright


    terrible inparison.


    To make matters worse, Shannon turned to Brendon and cried out, "Brendon, I really didn''t do


    anything! I don''t know how I offended Ranita; she just wants to me me."


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita couldn''t help butugh out loud. But in front of Brendon, she couldn''t even vent her anger


    properly and could only turn around in frustration.


    "Ranita!" Brendon grabbed her arm and said while turning towards Shannon, "Shannon, Ranita


    doesn''t me you. She''s just not feeling welltely so sometimes whates out of her mouth isn''t


    appropriate."


    Ranita almost shook off Brendon''s hand.


    Why should she have any restraint when Shannon disgusted her every day? Why should it be okay


    for bad things happened because no one loved or cared about her?


    Her heart felt like it was filled with cactus needles poking holes all over.


    "Shannon, let me handle Paityn''s side of things. You also need to delete your tweet," even though


    Ranita didn''t say it directly, he still needed follow through with his responsibilities.


    Shannon pouted and asked pitifully, "Brendon... did I do something wrong? All my tweets were


    meant to help Ranita! And the management has already dealt with those fans who were insulting


    Ranita online; honestly speaking, they''re just a bunch of haters."


    Brendon always had more patience for Shannon than anyone else.


    He said, "Shannon, we appreciate your intentions but this matter is better left alone for now. The


    more people involved in this situation the easier it will be for rumors or misunderstandings spread."


    Although he didn''t say whether or not Shannon was right or wrong, he remained firm on his stance.


    "But..." Shannon twisted her fingers together as if begging him while showing off a pair of long legs


    bare under a white dress which made men drool over them uncontrobly.


    Brendon frowned slightly before averting his gaze subconsciously while scratching the palm of


    Ranita''s hand saying, "Just follow my advice."


    "Oh¡­okay then! Let me go delete my tweet right away! And Ranita please ept my sincere


    apology!"


    After a pause, Shannon sighed and said casually, "If Ranita had just listened and changed her


    dress, none of this would have happened today."


    Ranita looked at Shannon coldly but didn''t say anything.


    "Okay, don''t worry about it. Get some rest!"


    "Alright! Goodnight Brendon!" Shannon wiped away the tears from her eyes and yfully twisted


    her body. "Come back soon, I''ll miss you."


    Beep - the call ended.


    Ranita''s blood rushed to her head and she felt nauseous.


    Brendon was also feeling awkward. He grabbed Ranita''s hand and pulled her closer while


    supporting her shoulder to exin, "Shannon didn''t mean any harm. Don''t take it personally."


    What good would taking offense do?


    Ranita swallowed the bitterness in silence.

 Chapter 191 Gentleness

    Chapter 191 Gentleness


    Chapter 191 Gentleness


    "It doesn''t matter anymore. I''ve already asked mywyer to handle it... I''m tired now. I''m going to


    take a shower." Ranita didn''t want to continue talking about Shannon so she found an excuse to


    end the conversation.


    "That''s fine! Let me run some water for you so you can rx in a bath."


    For a moment, Ranita was stunned.


    When did Brendon be so gentle? And why was he helping with running bathwater for her? She


    bit down on her lip but couldn''t help feeling happy inside at his kindnesspared with before when


    he wasn''t as caring towards her feelings.


    Her tone softened slightly, "I''ll just wash up quickly. I don''t want to soak in the tub. You go ahead


    and deal with your work."


    Brendon came over here specifically for business matters after all; he was indeed busy.


    After finishing up in the shower, Ranita saw that Brendon was still working in his study room so she


    made him a cup of coffee before bringing it over, "Are you still not done yet?"


    "It''ll take a bit more time! Thanks!" Brendon took the coffee, had a sip, and frowned.


    Ranita quickly exined, "It''s fine. I didn''t bring you coffee; it''s from the hotel. Maybe the taste isn''t


    that great."


    "No problem! You''re tired, go rest. I''ll sleepter," Brendon said.


    Ranita nodded.


    She felt a bit surreal, as if they were back in the past. Ranitay on the bed and chatted with Eve,


    "Eve, how''s your health?"


    "Better! Just ufortable lying down every day," Eve replied almost instantly, probably bored. "If


    you weren''t carrying a golden treasure, I would definitely be cursing you right now. With such a big


    thing happening online, and you didn''t let me help you!"


    Ranita smiled.


    "It''s not that I didn''t let you help. You''re also in that circle. If this incident dragged you into trouble, it


    might bring negative publicity to you." Pausing, Ranita sent her a pleading emoji, "I know you mean


    well, but I also want what''s best for you!"


    "Besides, I won''t let anyone bully me!"


    Eve was feeling frustrated. She had just been surfing the inte and things were even worse than


    before. First, Shannon deleted her new post, then Paityn did the same.


    Deleting it only made things worse as it sparked a new wave ofments iming that Ranita was


    guilty and had found someone to back her up, forcing Shannon and Paityn to delete their posts.


    Eve was so angry she wanted to confront those people on Twitter but her agent held her back.


    Instead, she used a fake ount to battle with them online. However, Eve didn''t want to bother


    Ranita with these issues.


    "If anyone bullies you again, I won''t let them get away with it!" Eve promised.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Well then don''t go online for a while," Ranita replied sleepily. "There''s always something happening


    on the inte but in a few days this will all blow over."


    After chatting for a while longer, Ranita fell asleep in a daze. She wasn''t sure how long she slept


    when suddenly her phone rang loudly next to her ear.


    "Hello?" she answered groggily.


    "Miss Bowman? This is Caleb," came the voice from the other end of the line.


    "Caleb?" Ranita squinted at her phone screen. "What''s up?"


    Caleb remained silent for several seconds before finally saying slowly, "Miss Bowman... this is Mr.


    Stuart''s phone."


    Ranita felt embarrassed as she realized that he was right ¨C it wasn''t even her own phone!


    She sat up slightly and saw lighting from under the bathroom door ¨C Brendon must have left


    his phone on their nightstand after finishing work earlier that day.


    "It''s okay," she apologized sheepishly into Caleb''s earpiece. "I''ll call Brendon over here."


    It was already 2am ¨C definitely toote!


    "... Or maybe I can pass along your message instead."


    Caleb paused before saying, "This matter is also rted to you, Miss Bowman, and it''s okay if you


    know. I''ve contacted friends on Stnd''s side regarding that ES blue velvet dress, but no one


    knows the specific details, so it''s impossible to purchase it."

 Chapter 192 DonT Overthink It

    Chapter 192 Don''T Overthink It


    Chapter 192 Don''t Overthink It


    Purchase it?


    Ranita was a perceptive person, and she understood Brendon''s thoughts. She felt both moved and


    a bit disappointed. Did Brendon really not believe that her blue velvet dress was genuine? Did he


    think she would proudly wear a fake one?


    Ranita was hurt.


    "Miss Bowman, we will find another solution!" Caleb assured her and added, "I hope you don''t mind


    me speaking out of turn."


    "Not at all! Thank you for letting me know!" Brendon genuinely wanted to help her. "Get some rest;


    you''ve worked hard."


    Caleb had been workingte into the night to help her, and she felt a sense of self-me.


    "No problem! Besides, we''ve worked together for several years, so we''re friends, right? You should


    rest early too!"


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    As soon as the call ended, the sound of a door opening came from the bathroom. The man walked


    out of the light with his tall and slender figure outlined by the warm and soft orange night light. The


    light made everything around him gentle.


    "Whose call is it sote?" The man casually wiped his hair with a towel. His raised arm was long


    and thin, pulling his waistline to be very long. His legs were equally impressive - straight and full of


    strength.


    Ranita looked at him enviously and felt her heart warming up.


    "Caleb," Ranita pursed her lips as she got out of bed and handed him a hair dryer from the drawer.


    "Thanks for your help with that online thing."


    Brendon frowned slightly. "Caleb is always meddling in other people''s business."


    Ranita smiled faintly while pursing her lips again. "He said there''s no news from Stnd," she


    paused before continuing, "Actually, you don''t have to worry about this matter. I can handle it


    myself."


    "But how are you going to solve it?" Brendon asked.


    "Don''t you trust me?" Ranita replied ambiguously; Brendon naturally understood what she meant by


    that remark. The issue was that blue velvet dress being fake - but what if it was real? Then all


    problems would disappear!


    His thin lips tightened, "Shannon said there''s another dress in Stnd; she wouldn''t lie to me."


    "What if someone in Stnd gave it to me?"


    Brendon stared at her intently before squinting his eyes, "Who gave it to you?"


    Did he believe her now? But why did Brendon not followmon sense when he first asked about


    this matter? At first nce this blue velvet dress wasn''t intended for Ranita but rather reserved as a


    New Year''s gift for Chloe ¨C however due to some unknown reason her family sent it over instead.


    "Do you need so much time thinking about this?" Brendon had sharp eyesight too ¨C although she


    changed its style significantly, the material quality and workmanship were absolutely top-notch on


    that dress. However, what he said didn''t count since those online only believed what they saw.


    The style on Ranita''s body differed greatly from Shannon''s picture which caused misunderstandings


    because pictures couldn''t capture materials well enough.


    "I..." Ranita took a deep breath before saying, "My brother gave it to me."


    Brendon became more frustrated than ever before.


    Why did she keep mentioning her brother?


    "At Christmas time he gave me a gift," continued Ranita while sighing heavily, "I don''t like trailing


    dresses due professional habits so I altered its hemline." She paused again before adding sadly,


    "That''s just how things are - sorry for troubling you."


    Brendon became even more depressed.


    Did they contact each other during Christmas or have been secretly contacting each other behind


    his back all along?


    The feeling of being humiliated and betrayed was like a bucket of cold water poured over Brendon''s


    head.


    Brendon''s face turned cold in an instant, and he pursed his lips as he said, "It''s not all about you.


    You''re still legally my wife, and if the paparazzi keep digging up dirt on you, it could drag my family


    into it too. Don''t overthink things!"


    Afraid of being implicated! Don''t overthink it!


    Such wording was really disheartening.

 Chapter 193 Kicks Him Out Of Bed

    Chapter 193 Kicks Him Out Of Bed


    Chapter 193 Kicks Him out of Bed


    "I''m sorry, I will solve the problem as soon as possible," Ranita said softly with lowered eyshes.


    Her tone was calm and even.


    This made Brendon even more ufortable. He grabbed the hair dryer and handed it to Ranita,


    saying hesitantly, "You don''t have to apologize to me! As your husband, it''s my duty to take


    responsibility. I will contact ES''s designer and ask them to rify the situation. As for the online


    harassers, we will handle them properly."


    "I''m tired. As my wife, could you help me blow dry my hair a bit?"


    This domineeringmand also carried a hint of coquetry.


    Ranita was a little angry and annoyed, and was about to speak when he pressed his shoulder and


    sat on the edge of the bed. The many down with his head resting on herp, looking up at her


    porcin white chin. "Hmm?"


    Ranita''s jaw got hot from the staring.


    She used to take care of him, serving tea and water, showing concern for his well-being. But now


    her situation was too awkward. Although they were still legally married, the rtionship between


    them had not beenpletely resolved. On the other hand, if she admitted that they still had a


    rtionship, they would soon be getting divorced...


    s!


    Ranita sighed inwardly.


    "Before blowing, you need to dry your hair. I''ve told you many times," Ranita grabbed a towel and


    helped him dry his hair. Brendon''s hair was ck and fluffy, as her fingers ran through it, leaving a


    scent of shampoo. She used her fingers as ab and scratched his scalp, feeling the roots that


    made her skin itch.


    Rough and stiff roots, with a not-so-good texture when touched.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    It was like beauty is the eyes of the beholder, even these small ws were so adorable to Ranita.


    "Ranita..." Suddenly, Brendon reached out and grabbed her wrist. She was small-framed with


    delicate wrists, and Brendon felt like she was even skinnier than before. He furrowed his brows as


    his thoughts were momentarily derailed.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Have you not been eatingtely? Your hands are just bones," Brendon hesitated as he looked at


    Ranita, his fingers resting on her chin. "Your face has also be thinner."


    She hadn''t been eating muchtely.


    "Maybe it''s because summer has arrived, I don''t have much of an appetite," Ranita casually made


    up an excuse.


    "Is that all?" Brendon nced at her. From Ranita''s perspective, she could see his eyshes flutter,


    like the wings of a butterfly about to take flight, lifting and delicate.


    Brendon was incredibly handsome from every angle.


    Ranita avoided eye contact and turned on the hair dryer to cover up her emotions. "What else can I


    do? I have a lot going on, I''m busy, and it''s too hot to eat."


    Buzzzzz!


    The hotel was five-star and had decent hair dryers that weren''t too loud. But no one spoke, so the


    only sound in the entire room was the noise of the dryer.


    That night, Ranita didn''t sleep well.


    Brendon was like a furnace next to her, and being pregnant herself made her afraid of heat. She


    woke up in the middle of the night feeling hot and bothered, pushing Brendon away in frustration.


    "Thud!" The next second, Brendon fell off with his nket!


    A loud noise echoed through the room as Brendon woke up.


    "Brendon! Are you okay? I''m sorry!" Ranita leaned over to check on him. How did he fall off when


    she wasn''t that strong?


    Ranita didn''t know that she had been tossing and turning all night while Brendon kept


    amodating her until he got pushed to the edge of bed.


    Brendony on the ground with a bewildered look at Ranita. "Are you trying to murder your


    husband?"


    Ranita''s face burned with anger.

 Chapter 194 Sending Flowers

    Chapter 194 Sending Flowers


    Chapter 194 Sending Flowers


    "You need to get up!" Ranita went down to help Brendon up. "I''m sorry; it wasn''t intentional.


    Because I just got too close, it''s so hot."


    As soon as she finished speaking, Brendon pulled her down onto him with a thud but luckily there


    was ayer of nket underneath them which cushioned her fall nicely.


    "What are you doing?" Ranita fell but quickly regained consciousness again.


    "Just letting you experience what it feels like," said Brendon with an evil grin while his voice still


    sounded groggy from sleepiness; not only did he have an attractive face but also his voice could


    make anyone melt halfway through their body!


    Ranita blushed furiously as she pounded him hard out of annoyance, "You scared me!"


    "What about me?" asked Brendon teasingly while raising an eyebrow mischievously; he looked bad


    but charming at same time, "Not only did you wake me up by scaring me off my bed!"


    As he spoke those words, Brendon''s eyes darkened while his voice lowered slowly, "I feel some


    pain in my shoulder... and legs..."


    Knowing how much care Brendon needed when injured or sick made Ranita nervous immediately,


    "Did you get hurt? Where does it hurt? Let me take a look."


    Brendony down obediently allowing Ranita examine him carefully since when he fell earlier, his


    shoulder hit against floor, causing redness around that area which must have been painful for


    sure...


    Feeling guilty inside herself for causing this ident made Ranita even more attentive towards


    taking care of Brendon who always deserved nothing less than utmost love from her side!


    "I''m sorry! Brendon... I didn''t mean to." Ranita sighed. "Let me go get some ice for you."


    Brendon pulled her back. "No need! I''ll just lie down for a bit."


    As he held her, his body temperature was still hot, even hotter than before. Ranita felt dizzy from


    the heat and her ears turned red like burning iron hidden in ck hair.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She couldn''t sleep with him holding her like this. Just as she was about to turn over, she heard his


    low voice in her ear, "Don''t feel like sleeping? Let''s find something to do?"


    The redness spread from her ears to cheeks as Ranita stared at Brendon in shock. She never


    thought he would say such things. Why didn''t she kick him earlier?


    "What are you thinking? I meant it''s almost 7 o''clock now, if we don''t want to sleep we can go


    exercise." The hotel had a gym that they could use.


    Ranita was lost in thought and felt embarrassed now.


    "You go ahead! I''ll lie down for a bit longer." She turned over and moved away from Brendon


    towards the corner of the bed but he quickly pulled her back.


    He held onto her tightly and filled the emptiness inside him with habit.


    Indeed, having Ranita by his side made everything better.


    "We slept tootest night so let''s sleep a little longer!" Brendon pressed his lips against Ranita''s


    neck while breathing deeply on it which made it itch slightly.


    Brendon continued, "There isn''t anything important today so when you wake up I''ll apany you


    on a walk? You like fish right? The seafood here is fresh; let''s try it out?"


    Brendon must have been really tired because towards the end of what he said all that remained


    were low breathsing out of him.


    Ranita grabbed hold of one of his fingers feeling somewhat sorry for him.


    Initially, she thought that she wouldn''t be able to fall asleep but soon enough drifted off again only


    waking up when Brendon wasn''t beside anymore.


    "Brendon?" murmured Ranita groggily only hearing an answering through from next door''s


    small study room, "Hmm?"


    Ranita was about to respond when an internal phone call came in, stating that there was a bouquet


    of flowers for her to sign for and asking if it was convenient.


    A bit confused, Ranita realized it when the doorbell rang! Outside stood a hotel staff member with a


    beautiful bouquet of champagne roses for her.


    Hugging them close, searching for a card, she wondered who could have sent them. It couldn''t be


    Brendon, right?!

 Chapter 195 Unpleasant Taste

    Chapter 195 Unpleasant Taste


    Chapter 195 Unpleasant Taste


    Brendon wasn''t that romantic, and he wouldn''t send her flowers. As Ranita thought about this, her


    mood started to be gloomy.


    "Huh?" Ranita found a small card with a handwritten message, "Wishing Ranita health and


    happiness!" Signed by her brother, Jedidiah.


    Jedidiah sent them?


    Ranita''s bright eyes sparkled with a smile as she ran to grab her phone and sent a message to


    Jedidiah, "Brother, why did you suddenly send me flowers?"


    Yesterday during dinner, Ranita mentioned the hotel she stayed at. Unexpectedly, this morning she


    received a thoughtful gift from him.


    The words on the card were also handwritten by Jedidiah, so this flower should have been


    handpicked by him as well.


    A phone call wasing in.


    "Ranita, did you receive the flowers? I remember you used to like champagne roses, have your


    preferences changed now?"


    Jedidiah''s voice was apanied by a heartyugh, and Ranita''s mood lifted as her eyebrows and


    eyes lifted. She smiled and said, "The flowers are very beautiful, I really like them! Thank you,


    brother!"


    "Don''t thank me! You''re my sister!" Jedidiah paused and sounded a bit regretful, "I have to hurry


    back to Stnd soon, otherwise I could have spent more time with you."


    Jedidiah didn''t want to waste the opportunity to see Ranita, as it''d been difficult for him to do so.


    But he can''t get away from work.


    "Ranita, listen to me. Can youe back to Stnd?" Jedidiah''s tone lowered towards the end and


    his emotions seemed unstable, making Ranita feel heartbroken as she listened.


    Ranita pursed her lips and thought for a moment before saying, "I do have ns to return to


    Stnd." Pausing briefly, she continued, "I''ve been busy with work these past few years and I feel a


    bit tired. After visiting Stnd, I n on taking some time to further my education."


    "Ah? Further studies, are you going abroad?" Jedidiah finally returned from overseas and now it


    was Ranita''s turn to leave. He asked eagerly, "Why? How did you suddenly decide to go abroad?"


    "You don''t have to be so anxious... I''m just considering it, nothing is confirmed yet." Ranita didn''t


    say anythingst night because she was afraid Jedidiah would get excited and ask too many


    questions. At least now on the phone, it was not as awkward. "I..."


    Before she could finish speaking, a warm body pressed against her from behind.


    Wet and moist in her ear, it was him kissing her ear.


    The next second, Brendon mischievously grinded his teeth and took a bite.


    Ranita was in pain, her head was hot and she could barely hold onto her phone. She couldn''t help


    but let out a "yelp"! Ranita covered her mouth and angrily red at Brendon with the corner of her


    eye.


    Brendon''s eyes were dark and cold, he made a childish grunt and then kissed her neck.


    "Ranita, what''s wrong? Did something happen to you?" Jedidiah grew anxious when he didn''t hear


    any response from Ranita.


    With one hand holding her phone and the other gently restraining the eager Brendon, Ranita


    steadied her voice, "It''s nothing. Just a little bug, startled me for a moment."


    "Little bug? Haha!" Jedidiah''s gentleughter came through. He said, "I remember you were always


    afraid of bugs when you were little. Every time you saw one, you would run over with a red nose..."


    Embarrassed at being caught, Ranita interrupted with a cough and said, "I didn''t do that! Brother, I


    have something to do here. I won''t talk to you anymore."


    "Hang up first!"


    As soon as she finished speaking, Brendon took her phone away and hung up before throwing it on


    the sofa.


    Brendon forcefully pulled her into his arms and his arm tightly wrapped around her waist almost


    breaking it!


    "Brendon..."


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon held onto her wrist tightly while coldly looking at the rose in her hand which made him


    shiver.

 Chapter 196 Gnashing Teeth

    Chapter 196 Gnashing Teeth


    Chapter 196 Gnashing Teeth


    Although the phone call was intermittent, Brendon still caught a few key words.


    What "when we were young", what "running over with a red nose"... just thinking about it made


    Brendon imagine an image in his mind.


    The little girl who was all smiles running towards someone with red eyes and nose... this stirred


    something inside of Brendon making him feel angry.


    And she even called him a little bug?


    His voice carried some questioning tone as he asked, "Little bug? You called me that?"


    He pinched her waist causing an itch to spread outwards making Ranitaugh uncontrobly.


    "I didn''t mean it on purpose... it''s because you scared me!"


    Brendon pinched her again hard like he was taking revenge for what she had done earlier.


    "Who sent these flowers? Is it your good brother again?" His tone remained t but Ranita could


    hear some anger in his voice.


    Over the years in the Stuart family, Ranita had never received flowers from Brendon. She felt a


    sense of disappointment and sadness.


    What could she do? Even if she envied and felt a bitter heart, she could only keep those feelings to


    herself.


    "Mhmm." Ranita lowered down eyshes while pushing away his hands, "I''ll go put the flowers


    away."


    "Do you really like them?" This random question caused Ranita to smile slightly as she replied,


    "Which woman doesn''t like beautiful flowers?" They represented thoughtfulness after all so even if


    they weren''t actual flowers just receiving any gift that showed someone cared enough meant


    everything to her too!


    Ranita ced the flowers prominently in the center of the table, so conspicuous that Brendon found


    it eye-catching to the point of difort. It felt like a pang in his eyes and chest, making him almost


    wish to toss them directly into the trash.


    If Ranita liked getting flowers, then why couldn''t he be one sending them?!


    Brendon took out his phone and thought about asking Caleb how to order flowers several times, but


    he realized someone else had beaten him to it. What was the point of sending flowers himself now?


    They finished breakfast in silence.


    Brendon wasn''t very busy today and suggested, "Do you want to go out for a walk?"


    Ranita remembered Brendon saying he wanted to take her out for seafood before and was hesitant


    because she didn''t want to reveal her true identity, but this was a rare opportunity for them to spend


    time alone together.


    After hesitating for a moment, Ranita nodded. "Sure, let me change my clothes first."


    Ranita was in good spirits.


    Her eyes were always smiling with radiance and affectionateughter.


    Brendon didn''t know if she was happy because they were going out together or because of the


    bouquet of flowers!


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "Where do you want to go?" It wasn''t early anymore but it wasn''t quite noon yet. The sunlight was


    perfect and not too hot; it would be great just walking around aimlessly.


    "Hmm..." Ranita didn''t know where she wanted to go at first since she wasn''t familiar with


    Qaesburg. As long as she went with Brendon though, anywhere would be fine.


    "Brendon, can we walk by the beach?" Ranita asked carefully while looking at Brendon''s handsome


    profile under the sunlight.


    "Sure!" Brendon nodded before taking her hat from her hands and putting it on top of her head.


    "Wear your hat outside so that you don''t get sunburned."


    "Okay!" Ranita replied before continuing, "Yesterday I heard from the hotel manager that there is a


    stretch of beach behind our hotel which leads onto a greenway if we keep walking along."


    The hotel they stayed in had its own exclusive beach, situated just behind it, essible only to


    guests like them. It was a beautiful environment with fine sand, some palm trees strategically


    nted, and a gentle sea breeze carrying a hint of salty ocean scent.


    But there was also a bit of a fishy smell.


    Ranita thought she might feel nauseous, but there was no reaction at all. She thought to herself,


    "The little one is surprisingly well-behaved in front of its dad."


    It left her feeling a bit emotionally unfair!

 Chapter 197 A Couple

    Chapter 197 A Couple


    Chapter 197 A Couple


    The waves rhythmically rolled onto the sandy beach, and under the sunlight, silver foam sparkled


    like fish scales. A couple, leaving four sets of footprints, walked slowly along the shoreline.


    Although Ranita and Brendon had lived together for several years, most of their time was spent


    working or at the Bouldend Mansion. If there were business trips, after finishing work, they were


    too tired to do anything but rest. Moments like this, walking side by side, felt like a dream.


    Ranita slowed down slightly while gazing at Brendon''s shoulder uncontrobly.


    "Ranita¡­" Suddenly stopping mid-stride Brennon looked down at her from above.


    "Hmm?" Ranita''s heart skipped a beat, thinking he had caught onto her little scheme. She waved


    her hands, "I wasn''t spying on you!"


    Brendon paused for a moment.


    "Ha ha!" He grinned and teased, "Oh... so you were spying on me?"


    His teasing tone made Ranita blush.


    She lifted her foot and lightly kicked his leg, "Who was spying on you? Don''t be so presumptuous!"


    Her annoyed yet yful demeanor showed off her inner childlike nature.


    Ranita used to be too calm and collected in the past. As a young girl of twenty-something years old,


    she had already be aposed member of society without any vitality or energy left in her.


    Brendon swallowed hard.


    He furrowed his eyebrows and pretended to bend over in pain, "Ouch! That really hurt!"


    "You''re faking it! I didn''t even use much force." Ranita faced Brendon but couldn''t bring herself to


    hurt him; she cared for him too much.


    Brendon hopped around in ce a few times. "It really hurts!" he eximed dramatically.


    "Really?" Ranita believed him and immediately became nervous as she leaned down to check his


    leg. Suddenly Brendon leaned forward and kissed her lips yfully before running away like a child


    would do after ying such games with their friends at recess time during school hours.


    Ranita realized that he was just ying with her as usual; she chased after him shouting out his


    name, "Brendon, don''t run!"


    The sea breeze still blew whileughter apanied by the wind could be heard from afar. Julia


    who came over with files saw them chasing each other from afar; taking out her phone recorded the


    video clip then sent it over to Shannon''s phone.


    Ranitaughed while grabbing onto Brendon''s shirt cor but before exerting any force upon it,


    Brendon bumped into her first then took advantage of this opportunity by embracing her tightly


    within his arms.


    "Ranita, you bumped into me so hard."


    "You''re lying! You clearly ran into me yourself!" She couldn''t stop giggling because of all the running


    around which caused both exhaustion and red cheeks due to heavy breathing and excitement alike.


    Suddenly Brendon held onto Ranita''s hand tightly.


    "Hmm?" Startled at first by this sudden action taken by Brendon, she didn''t have time to speak


    before being pulled along towards an unknown destination.


    The wind blew up their shirts causing them both feel alive inside.


    Just then, Brendon''s phone rang loudly interrupting their blissful moment together.


    "Julia? Did you deliver those files yet? Okay great I''ll meet up with youter tonight back at my hotel


    room." Brendon said quickly hanging up afterwards.


    He continued holding onto Rantia''s hand leading them away from the beach towards some kind of


    greenery path ahead.


    Although it wasn''t sunset nor did they have any alcohol involved; walking alongside Brendon


    holding hands filled Rantia''s heart full of bubbles making everything feel perfect.


    This was what happiness felt like .


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    This was how things should always be between them two.


    Her eyes sparkled brightly reflecting pure joy within them.


    "Did Julia arrive that fast ? The documents must''ve been important, why don''t we go back?"


    "No need! We agreed upon eating dinner together, remember?" Brendon replied pulling Ranita


    further away from the beach until they reached some kind of park trail instead.


    The sunshine was very bright, and it made Ranita''s heart feel warm too.


    She saw a bike rental nearby and asked with squinted eyes, "Brendon, could we possibly go


    cycling?"


    Ranita didn''t have high hopes, but Brendon actually agreed.


    "Okay!" After a pause, Brendon asked again, "Can you ride a bike?"


    "Of course I can! My brother taught me when I was younger," Ranita eximed happily.


    After speaking, she nervously looked at Brendon.

 Chapter 198 Cool And Sweet Again

    Chapter 198 Cool And Sweet Again


    Chapter 198 Cool and Sweet Again


    Brendon didn''t like it when she brought up Jedidiah.


    Sure enough, Brendon''s eyes sank slightly and his tone was not very pleasant as he said, "Haha!


    You and your brother have a lot of memories together!"


    Sour.


    Ranita didn''t hear it clearly and lowered her head in silence, feeling guilty.


    They rented a tandem bike, with Brendon in the front and Ranita in the back, making it easy for her.


    After a round trip, they went to return the bike.


    Ranita noticed that Brendon was sweating on his neck, so she helped him buy a bottle of water.


    She also selfishly bought herself an ice cream.


    Just as she took a bite, Brendon pressed down on the back of her neck.


    "Aren''t you on your period? Why are you still eating cold things?"


    Ranita felt guilty and blushed, "It''s too hot!"


    "Just a little bit? Okay?" Ranita''s tone was soft and sounded like she was being coquettish.


    Brendon squinted and said, "Then you can only take one more bite."


    Ranita looked at the ice cream she had just bought and felt extremely distressed. "But it''s so


    expensive! It''s such a waste to throw it away after only two bites!"


    Brendon looked at the ice cream and then at her pink lips. He took the ice cream and said, "I''ll eat


    it!"


    Ah?


    Ranita thought she had misheard!


    What she had eaten, Brendon said he wanted to eat? Ranita''s mind felt dizzy like a firework


    exploding, and her heart followed suit with brightness.


    "Do you want to eat? But don''t you... not like these?"


    "Wasting is shameful!" Brendon paused and urged her to take a bite of the ice cream, cing it near


    her lips. "You can at least have a taste!"


    Ranita stuck out her tongue and licked it.


    Cool and sweet, it surged into her chest.


    "... There''s saliva; maybe you shouldn''t eat it..." Before she could finish speaking, a sudden shadow


    fell over her. Without a chance to react, her chin was lifted, and she was kissed.


    Feeling shameful, yet her heart jumped wildly.


    His face turned red.


    "The taste is pretty good!" Brendon withdrew, his voice low and apanied by a joyfulugh.


    Ranita hung her eyes, afraid to look at him.


    She reallycked backbone. With just a little teasing, her heart became soft.


    Brendon didn''t have a sweet tooth, but there was no denying that the ice cream was sweet and soft,


    which made him a bit addicted.


    Time was tight, so they had lunch at the hotel. Just as they sat down, Julia hurried over with some


    files.


    "Mr. Stuart, Miss Bowman," Julia smiled and greeted them as she handed the files to Brendon.


    "These are the documents you requested, Mr. Stuart. The ones below are urgent documents that


    Caleb asked me to bring along. After you sign them, I''ll take them back with me."


    Brendon nodded his head and said, "Okay, go ahead and do what you need to do!"


    Julia nced at Ranita out of the corner of her eye before leaving in frustration; she had followed


    her all the way here and every image stabbed at her heart.


    But Julia knew that Shannon wouldn''t let it go unnoticed for long; Ranita''s triumph would be short-


    lived.


    "What are you looking at while eating?" Brendon asked irritably when he saw Ranita on her phone


    again.


    Who was this woman chatting with now? Could it be that damn brother of hers?


    "Nothing much," replied Ranita who was actually discussing project matters with Chris rather than


    texting Jedidiah like Brendon suspected; hence there were words filling up her screen.


    Brendon didn''t say anything for a while until he noticed something was off; he looked up from his


    food only to find himself staring intently at Ranita''s phone screen instead.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "How did you get here?" questioned a surprised Ranita as she pushed him away from viewing her


    messages on Chris'' project coboration.


    "You... are still working together on projects with Chris?" Brendon raised an eyebrow curiously.

 Chapter 199 Venting Grievances

    Chapter 199 Venting Grievances


    Chapter 199 Venting Grievances


    "Why not?" paused Ranita before exining further, "Even if I haven''t terminated my contract with


    Stuart''s Corp., I can still undertake other projects independently without breaching any


    agreements."


    "You''re also helping Steve trante academic reports - how many more things don''t I know about


    yet?" Brendon rubbed his fingers together thoughtfully while scrutinizing her expression closely.


    There were plenty of things he didn''t know! But instead of confessing any secrets, Ranita simply


    pursed lips tightly and said, "I work hard for money ¨C who I coborate or work alongside isn''t really


    important."


    "So why can''t you continue working for Stuart''s Corp.?"


    "What do you think?" countered back a puzzled-looking but defiantly-toned voice from Ranita which


    left Brendon momentarily speechless since he couldn''te up with an answer right away.


    Just then Ranita''s phone rang loudly interrupting their conversation - It was Eve calling in


    excitement.


    "Ranita have you checked Twitter yet? Hurry up and check it out!"


    "What happened?" Ranita asked, unaware of the online drama as she rarely paid attention to it.


    "Hahaha! I''m so happy right now, I just want to crack open a cold one and celebrate your


    vindication. Shannon and Paityn got what they deserved!" Eveughed loudly enough for Brendon


    to hear.From N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita apologized to Brendon with a gesture and whispered, "She''s just blunt. She didn''t mean any


    harm towards Miss Murphy."


    "Who are you talking to?" Eve''s ears perked up as she overheard. "Is Brendon next to you?"


    Ranita nodded before hearing Eve''s rant. "Ha! It wasn''t malicious towards Shannon; it was


    disgusting!"


    "If he has a problem with it, tell him toe find me," Eve boasted fearlessly. But Ranita knew


    better than to let her anger provoke Brendon since Eve worked in the entertainment industry and


    didn''t want any trouble with investors.


    "I understand. I''ll call you after dinner," Ranita said before hanging up the phone, noticing that


    Brendon looked upset.


    "My friend is just straightforward; don''t take it personally," Ranita triedforting him but was


    interrupted by his phone ringing.


    She nced at his phone before lowering her head in silence while he answered Shannon''s call.


    Brendon called out in a deep voice, "Shannon, what''s wrong?"


    "Brendon, ... Brendon, I want to apologize to Ranita. I didn''t mean for the online incident to happen.


    I was trying to help her, but now so many people are cursing me," Shannon cried miserably, her


    voice hoarse, and her nasal tone almost making it difficult to understand.


    Brendon left his seat with the phone in hand tofort his loved one.


    The meal ended abruptly.


    In her room, Ranita checked her messages. Early that morning, ES brand designer Louis Wang


    posted a rification, stating that the blue velvet dress Ranita wore was genuine, personally


    modified by him, and criticized Paityn for speaking without understanding the value.


    Moreover, the designer also shared photos of Ranita trying on the dress, not only showcasing her


    ethereal beauty but also outssing Shannon in terms of charisma. With the brand''s official


    statement and Marlon''s legal actions, several IDs were directly banned!


    The critics were left speechless.


    The onlookers enjoyed the show, but Shannon and Paityn''s fans dared not make a peep.


    The heat around the topic quickly subsided, reced by other trending subjects, and the incident


    seemed to be over on the surface.


    No wonder Shannon called Brendon, seekingfort.


    Ranita, feeling tired from staring at her phone, was about to take a break when her phone chimed.


    Someone had sent her an image.

 Chapter 200 Red Roses

    Chapter 200 Red Roses


    Chapter 200 Red Roses


    "Julia?!" Ranita thought as she clicked on the message. She knew Julia for quite some time, but


    they weren''t that close. The picture was of an incredibly vibrant bouquet of red roses.


    Did Julia send this by mistake? Just as Ranita was about to reply, another message came in with a


    ding sound.


    Ranita''s breath caught in her throat.


    "Mr. Stuart, the roses are ready."


    Brendon''d prepared roses? Ranita''s fingers froze and she felt bitter inside; these roses were


    probably not meant for her.


    "Ding!" The message was retracted, followed by a call from Julia, "Miss Bowman, I''m sorry I sent


    you the wrong text!"


    "These are the roses Mr. Stuart asked me to order for Miss Murphy," there was a pause before she


    continued speaking again, "Miss Bowman, I''m really sorry! Please pretend you didn''t see it and


    don''t tell Miss Murphy either. Mr. Stuart wants to surprise her."


    Ranita replied with just one word, "Okay."


    "Thank you so much Miss Bowman!" Julia said politely before letting out what seemed like a sigh of


    relief, "If Mr. Stuart finds out that I''ve been acting all flustered while doing my job, he''ll be angry!"


    "Is there anything else?" Ranita''s tone was indifferent, leaving Julia at a loss for words. Julia


    awkwardly chuckled, "Well, nothing else. I''ll hang up now."


    The entire afternoon passed.


    Ranita still hadn''t received any news from Brendon. After taking a nap, she woke up to the


    approaching dusk. Instead of calling Brendon, she decided to go for a walk.


    "Ding!" The elevator door opened, and Ranita looked a little surprised at the couple inside.


    Shannon was wearing a little ck dress, a fisherman''s hat, and sunsses. In her arms was a


    beautiful bouquet of red roses.


    Even more stunning than in the pictures.


    Vivid and passionate, just like all of Brendon''s feelings for Shannon.


    "Ranita?" Shannon''s voice was hoarse, filled with the aftermath of crying. After speaking, she


    leaned against Brendon, disying intimacy in her movements.


    Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    In an instant, Ranita''s heart turned to ice.


    "Excuse me, please, I need to get into the elevator." The elevator door was blocked, and Ranita


    tried to go around, but Brendon grabbed her finger. "Where are you going?"


    "Just for a walk," Ranita smiled at him. "Miss Murphy must be tired. Why don''t you take her to rest


    first?"


    Ranita pushed away his hand and calmly entered the elevator.


    As the doors closed, she leaned against the elevator wall, her spine softening, feelingpletely


    drained.


    Later on, Ranita went for a walk on the beach behind the hotel. She sat on a bench and let the wind


    blow through her hair while her heart ached. Memories of their sweet day together kept reying in


    her mind. It was as if this was the only way to escape.


    Suddenly, someone sat down next to her. It was Shannon with a pale face and sad eyes looking at


    Ranita with regret written all over it.


    "I''m sorry," Shannon said softly. "I couldn''t take it anymore in Kurima so I flew here to ask Brendon


    for help. Can you forgive me?"


    Ranita had enough of Shannon''s insincere attitude.


    "Shannon, stop saying these things! People say that admitting your mistakes is half the battle won


    but what about changing? You keep apologizing and saying sorry but have you actually changed?


    Who are you ying games with?"


    Ranita''s words were drowned out by the sound of sea breeze blowing past them as she looked at


    Shannon coldly and distantly.


    Shannon took off her sunsses revealing red swollen eyes that looked pitiful but all of this pity was


    built upon Ranita''s pain! Ranita felt nothing but hatred towards Shannon!


    "I didn''t mean to hurt you," pleaded Shannon after pausing for a moment before asking, "Have you


    ever loved someone wholeheartedly before?"

 Chapter 201 Let Their Love Go

    Chapter 201 Let Their Love Go


    Chapter 201 Let Their Love Go


    "I grew up with Brendon since childhood, and we understand each other''s hearts. I won''t marry


    anyone else but him! If you haven''t loved someone with all your heart, how would you know the pain


    of being trapped in love? During the years he was married to you, I didn''t even have the courage to


    return home!"


    "I know from your perspective that I seem malicious, but I''ve been waiting for him for so many


    years. It''s time for you to give him back to me!" Shannon cried as tears streamed down her face.


    She wrung her hands together in agony and said, "Ranita, I can''t live without Brendon! So please,


    beg of you, let him go and let our love be."


    Ranita''s heart was in turmoil as she struggled to hold back tears.


    The feeling of being trapped by love is unbearable; she understood it better than anyone.


    Shannon asked her to let go of their love. What about Ranita?


    "Shannon, your love life is none of my business. Right now I''m still Mrs. Stuart so until my divorce


    with Brendon is finalized please spare me," Ranita replied.


    "Do you know what a divorce cooling-off period means? As long as I change my mind then the


    divorce won''t count!"


    Ranita stood up.


    Shannon also stood up quickly and blocked her path saying, "Ranita... but... but it was me who met


    him first! You''re just a third party who destroyed our rtionship."


    Ranita looked at her angrily; she felt like exploding inside.


    "That''s too bad because legally speaking only Mrs. Stuart exists! Miss Murphy, you can cry if you


    want but don''t expect any sympathy from me," Ranita said coldly.


    She was about to lose her husband; she had no right or reason pity others.


    "Ranita... I''m sorry... I got too emotional earlier and didn''t mean to make you angry! I shouldn''t have


    said those things¡­sorry¡­sorry..." Shannon apologized repeatedly while crying profusely.


    Ranita was so annoyed that her heart felt like it was about to explode.


    Did Shannon not understand humannguage?


    "Ranita, I also want to apologize for the dress incident! Luckily, your dress was genuine, or the ES


    brand wouldn''t let it go..."


    "Shannon, enough!" Ranita felt nauseated and ufortable. There really were people in this


    world with such thick skin, every word they utter was muddy and tainted.


    "... I''m sorry..." Shannon''s eyes turned increasingly red, tears welled up, furrowing her brows. Her


    voice sounded pitiful, and her body seemed to sway unsteadily.


    Ranita was so angry that her rationality began to crumble bit by bit.


    "Move out of the way!" Ranita didn''t even want to see Shannon and pushed her away in disgust.


    "Ouch! That hurts!"


    Shannon fell over to the side, hitting a chair with a loud bang and sitting on the ground.


    Ranita took a few steps forward and suddenly saw Brendoning towards her. She raised her


    chin slightly, "I pushed her, so I''ll pay for any medical expenses."


    "If you want to sue me, please talk to mywyer."


    Brendon''s eyes were dark and his voice was low and heavy. "Go back and rest. We''ll talkter."


    Talk about what? Talk about how much they loved each other?


    Ranita really wanted to ask Brendon what she meant to him. Why did he have someone else in his


    heart but still sleep with her at the same time?


    "Listen! Go back first!" Brendon patted her shoulder as Ranita walked heavily back to the hotel.


    Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Brendon rushing over to Shannon''s side.


    "Brendon... I''m sorry... I didn''t mean to make Ranita angry. I just wanted to apologize..." Shannon


    knelt on the ground with long legs exposed from under her skirt, looking up with an innocent face


    while acting coyly.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.

 Chapter 202 Stunned

    Chapter 202 Stunned


    Chapter 202 Stunned


    Ranita immediately had the hotel arrange another room for herself. After all, Shannon was here and


    she didn''t want to be kicked out. As Ranita was packing up her things, she suddenly felt deted


    and sat down on the couch like a balloon losing air.


    What was she even packing for?


    She was Brendon''s wife, so why did she have to be so kind as to give up her room for Shannon?


    A rebellious thought crossed Ranita''s mind - maybe she should just take back her offer of divorce


    and let Shannon suffer!


    Suddenly, there was a beep from the door as it unlocked with a card swipe.


    Was that Brendoning back already?


    Ranita turned around but saw someone else instead - someone she didn''t want to see!


    Shannon sweetly called out to her, "Ranita... Brendon personally went out to buy me coffee. He


    gave me his room key so I could rest. I hope I''m not bothering you."


    It was like nothing had happened earlier.


    Ranita couldn''t help but admire how thick-skinned Shannon really was - thicker than walls!


    "I said you were bothering me. Will you leave now?"


    "Ranita..." Shannon immediately looked wronged and used, "Why do you have to say that? It''s


    Brendon who asked me here."


    How pitiful! How wronged!


    Ranita really wanted to p her across the face or else this anger would never go away.


    "Brendon is good to me because he has deep feelings for me. Can''t you understand that?" pleaded


    Shannon.


    "Hmph!" Ranita sneered coldly, "Sorry, I don''t understand at all! So please stop talking about it in


    front of me because I don''t want to hear it."


    Shannon looked hurt with red-rimmed eyes as if on the verge of tears, "Can you please stop hating


    on me like this? I really want us all get along!"


    "Are you angry because Brendon sent flowers only for my sake? Should I give you roses then? As


    long as it makes you happy."


    Ranita felt nauseous with twisted stomach pain.


    "And also... Ranita, why are you packing your bags? Don''t worry about sharing rooms with me.


    You''re not officially separated yet so let''s respect each other." Shannon''s every word emphasized


    her own concessions, but each one stomped on Ranita''s sore spots.


    Shannon was unting, loudly proiming that everything she possessed was given to her by


    Brendon voluntarily.


    If she wanted something, she could only ept it as charity.


    Ranita suppressed all her emotions after a few ups and downs in her heart. She calmly said, "Miss


    Murphy, you''re overthinking. I''m not very familiar with you, so I can''t say whether I like you or not!


    As for the roses? Brendon gives them to female clients all the time. If I got angry every time, I


    wouldn''t need to eat! And as for the room snatching? It''s only natural that I live with my husband, so


    it wouldn''t be appropriate for you to snatch it, would it?"


    Shannon was left speechless by Ranita''s response.


    Just then, Brendon returned.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "Brendon!" Shannon rushed over to him and stumbled slightly before he caught her.


    "Why are you running? Be careful not to fall," he said.


    "It''s not... I just... I was careless... Brendon, I''m sorry." Shannon paused and looked at Brendon with


    teary eyes. Her voice was gentle as she said, "Ranita may not wee me here, so I''ll go back for


    now!"


    Shannon bit her lip and looked at Brendon with soft eyes while pretending to be bullied and


    wronged.


    Unexpectedly, Brendon nodded in agreement. "Okay! You go rest first. The coffee you wanted will


    be sent up by Julia."


    Shannon was taken aback by his response.

 Chapter 203 Shannon Is Furious

    Chapter 203 Shannon Is Furious


    Chapter 203 Shannon is Furious


    Shannon couldn''t believe what she had just heard. Brendon was asking her to go back and rest,


    without even offering to escort her?


    "Brendon, can you at least walk me back?" Shannon pouted, "I''m a little scared."


    When Brendon didn''t respond, Shannon bit her lip and grabbed his arm. She twisted her body and


    continued to pout, "Brendon! You promised!"


    Brendon frowned and turned to Ranita, "I''ll take Shannon back first."


    As they left, Ranita packed up her things and went into another room. She had barelyid down


    when the phone rang.


    It was Brendon calling but she ignored it. The phone rang again but she pressed the button once


    more... as if out of spite.


    Finally, the doorbell rang outside with Brendon''s deep voice calling out, "Ranita! Open up!"


    Ranita was annoyed as she threw down her phone and opened the door.


    "What do you want?"


    "Get your things together;e with me," said Brendon as he took hold of Ranita''s hand.


    She tried to pull away from him but he held on tight as he walked inside.


    "I want to live alone," said Ranita firmly. But before she could say anything else, Brendon pulled her


    into his embrace from behind with both arms wrapped around hers. His hot breath tickled against


    earlobe as he asked, "Are you angry?"


    Ranita pursed her lips tightly together in response, "No."


    "Stop denying it! You''re so angry you could burst!" Brendon straightened her body and yfully


    poked her cheek with his finger. "You''re pouting!"


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    His finger tickled her skin a bit.


    And it seemed like some of the anger had deted.


    "I''m not angry! Miss Murphy came all this way to see you, so you should take care of her first!"


    As soon as Ranita finished speaking, her lips were kissed.


    He kissed her passionately, without reason or method, a bit hurriedly, with a hint of indistinguishable


    annoyance.


    "Let go of me!" Ranita blushed and gasped for breath from the passionate kiss.


    Brendon rarely blushed, and even during intimate moments, he always maintained a cool


    demeanor, making it hard to tell if he was emotionally moved.


    He looked down at her, his gaze deep. "I didn''t know Shannon woulde... You must have seen


    what happened online. She got caught up in it and came here feeling upset."


    "I''ve already asked Julia to buy her a ticket. Julia will take her back to Kurima."


    They were here on a business trip, and since the matter wasn''t resolved yet, they couldn''t leave


    immediately. As for Shannon, being a public figure, she couldn''t just appear without any protection.


    It wouldn''t be good if something unexpected happened.


    Ranita''s mood improved slightly.


    "Really? I thought..."


    "What did you think?" Brendon raised an eyebrow and Ranita hit him yfully.


    They had been married for three years and had some unspoken understanding between them.


    Brendon cried out in pain, "You hit me again!"


    "I just lightly touched you! It doesn''t hurt!" Ranita didn''t use much force, this man was just


    pretending!


    Ranita smiled, her eyes shining like stars.


    Brendon chuckled softly and pinched her cheek. "Are you not angry anymore?"


    "I''m not angry!" Ranita was like a cat whose tail had been stepped on, ring at Brendon. "Don''t


    say that."


    "Right, right! You''re not angry! Can we go back now?" Brendon realized that Ranita was easy to


    please. As long as he said something sweet to her, she would smile at him.


    Suddenly, Brendon''s heart surged with uncertainty. Maybe after three years of marriage life together


    she still had some feelings for him?


    "I don''t want to move things! I want to stay here!" Ranita didn''t want to move back because


    Shannon would definitelye looking for them and she didn''t want to see Shannon flirt with


    Brendon again.


    Wait a minute! After thinking about it for a while, Ranita gritted her teeth and decided that moving


    back was the right thing to do!


    She wanted Shannon furious with jealousy!

 Chapter 204 Free Meal

    Chapter 204 Free Meal


    Chapter 204 Free Meal


    "Ranita, don''t be stubborn!" Brendon paused before continuing, "Let me help you with your


    luggage."


    Ranita returned to the suite just as the waiter brought in their dinner. Brendon took it upon himself to


    put her luggage away and instructed her, "You should eat quickly! Don''t starve yourself."


    "I''ll wait for you," she replied.


    "Great!" Brendon raised his eyebrows and went to wash his hands before sitting across from her.


    "Ranita, I''m sorry about Shannon''s behavior," he said.


    At his words, Ranita''s fingers stiffened. She looked down and said, "What are you apologizing for?"


    "Shannon doesn''t know any better and made you unhappy."


    "Eat first, talkter," Ranita didn''t want to discuss Shannon.


    They had only taken a few bites when the doorbell rang. Ranita''s eyelids twitched with a sense of


    foreboding. As expected, they heard Shannon''s soft voice calling out sweetly, "Brendon, I''m hungry.


    Can you apany me to the restaurant?"


    Brendon replied softly, "I''m already eating..."


    Before he could finish refusing her request though, Shannon hurriedly walked in two steps saying in


    a low voice, "Brendon! It would be great if I can join too? Eating alone is so lonely..."


    As she spoke she caught sight of Ranita sitting upright like a stick; seeming hesitant for quite some


    time before finally stuttering out, "Sorry for disturbing you Ranita..."


    Ranita silently grumbled in her mind, thinking, "If you know it''s embarrassing, then don''te!"


    "Brendon! If Ranita minds, I can go back. I won''t die if I miss a meal," Shannon sniffled, her eyes


    already misty with tears, looking pitifully upset.


    Brendon nced at Ranita, "Ranita..."


    Ranita smiled, "We won''t be able to finish all these dishes anyway. If Miss Murphy wants to join,


    let''s eat together! I just don''t know if it suits her taste."


    Shannon immediately leaned softly towards Brendon''s side, pretending to be coy. "I like whatever


    Brendon likes."


    Brendon sat down, and Shannon immediately sat beside him, leaning heavily against him.


    "Miss Murphy, the seating over there is so cramped. You''re practically sitting on my husband''sp.


    Why note over to my side? There''s more space here."


    Upon hearing this, Shannon immediately bit her lip, looking aggrieved. "I didn''t... Ranita, you


    misunderstood me... It wasn''t intentional! After all these years, I''ve be ustomed to being


    close to Brendon, and it slipped my mind."


    "Brendon, I''m sorry," Shannon handed him a knife and cunningly moved to the side, just enough to


    be on the edge of the sofa.


    She was about to fall off.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Shannon, be careful not to fall!" Brendon pulled her, and of course, Shannon took the opportunity


    to press herself against Brendon''s arm.


    "Thank you for your concern, Brendon. I''m fine!" She paused and said in a soft and sweet voice,


    "You should eat your meal quickly. You''re always so busy, don''t let yourself go hungry and harm


    your health!"


    "Do you remember when we were in high school and I got sick? You took care of me for three days


    straight until you got sick yourself. That time I cried so much my eyes swelled up... So please take


    care of yourself or else it''ll break my heart."


    Shannon spoke calmly while subtly ncing at Ranita with a hint of pride and boasting.


    It was as if she was telling Ranita that their feelings for each other had started from a young age, so


    what did Ranita even matter?!


    Ranita felt like she was chewing wax.


    Her heart was pierced with pain and bleeding profusely.

 Chapter 205 ShannonS Accident

    Chapter 205 Shannon''S ident


    Chapter 205 Shannon''s ident


    "I''m full, you guys can take your time!" Ranita put down her tableware and stood up.


    "Ranita!" Shannon reached out to grab her, but Ranita recoiled and instinctively waved her hand.


    Smack!


    Her backhand hit Shannon''s face directly.


    The scene fell silent.


    Shannon covered her face and immediately turned red-eyed. She sobbed as she ran into Brendon''s


    arms. "Waaah! Ranita, even if you have a problem with me, you can''t just hit me like that!"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Facing the usation, Ranita was stunned for a moment. She didn''t expect it to happen like this.


    She furrowed her brow and said, "It was an ident. I didn''t mean to hit your face."


    Ranita really didn''t mean it; if she had meant it, she would have used more force instead of being so


    light-handed.


    "Waaah! Brendon, my face hurts so much! What am I going to do... if there''s a mark left on my face


    how can I go out in public?" Shannon continued to cry pitifully while constantly burying herself in


    Brendon''s embrace. It made Ranita feel ufortable just watching them.


    "I..."


    "Shannon, Ranita didn''t mean it; stop crying!" Brendonforted Shannon while giving a stern look


    at Ranita. "Ranita, apologize to Shannon."


    "No no no... it was my fault! I shouldn''t havee to Qaesburg or looked for you. Everything is my


    fault..." Sobbing uncontrobly again after pushing away from Brendon''s embrace, Shannon ran


    straight out the door.


    Brendon looked at Ranita and said, "I''ll go check on Shannon."


    "Go ahead! Miss Murphy is naive by nature; if anything happenster don''t me me!"


    Brendon went after her .


    Shannon ran very fast. When he caught up with her, the elevator doors closed right in front of him.


    Covering her cheek, when she entered the elevator, her lips immediately curled upwards as she


    thought about how forever Ranita will be nothing more than a loserpared with her!


    As she pondered over how long she needed to stay there before Brendan caught up with her...


    The elevator kept going down until she reached level -2 of the parking garage.


    When the doors opened again, a man wearing ck duckbill hat came inside. His arm was covered


    in tattoos.


    Shannon kept her head down, both to avoid being recognized and to steer clear of any unwanted


    attention from the man.


    "Are you... Shannon?" At that moment, the man approached, and without waiting for Shannon to


    respond, he promptly pulled her out of the elevator.


    "Ah... What do you want to do!?" Shannon shouted, but the man hugged her tightly and pressed his


    rough face against hers.


    "Baby Shannon, I am your fan! In the fan group, I''m called ''Forever in Love with Baby Shannon''.


    You even replied to me in the group before. Do you remember me?"


    How could Shannon possibly remember? She had so many fans, and besides, the fan group was


    managed by other people below her. The one who replied to him must not be herself.


    "Baby Shannon, I dream of holding and kissing you all the time. You are so beautiful!" The man


    said, as if he was not dizzy and leaned in to kiss Shannon''s neck...


    "Ah! Help me! Let go of me!" Shannon, a spoiled flower, had never been treated like this before and


    felt nauseous and wanted to vomit.


    "Let go of me, it''s disgusting. Don''t touch me!"


    Shannon struggled, but her strength was not enough. She was dragged directly to the side of the


    car by the man.


    "Baby Shannon, don''t worry, I won''t hurt you! You are my goddess, and I hold you in the palm of my


    hand..."


    The man looked at her with wild eyes.


    Shannon knew she had encountered an extreme fan of her private life and struggled while shouting,


    "Help! Help!"

 Chapter 206 A Sasaeng Fan

    Chapter 206 A Sasaeng Fan


    Chapter 206 A Sasaeng Fan


    "Baby Shannon, don''t scream! I won''t hurt you! I just want to invite you to my house as a guest. I''ve


    collected so many things of yours, would you like to take a look?" The man''s eyes became more


    and more fanatical as he spoke. His expression was even abnormal. Just as she was about to be


    pushed into the car, Brendon appeared and Shannon immediately shouted, "Brendon, help me!"


    ...


    Ranita waited for Brendon. But he didn''te back and the food had gone cold. Ranita had the


    room service pack up her things and hesitated before finally calling Brendon.


    "Beep beep beep! The number you have dialed is busy, please try againter," came the


    mechanical voice from her phone.


    Ranita put her phone away and sent Brendon a message, "When you see this message please


    reply."


    "Is Miss Murphy okay?"


    But there was no response.


    Ranita worked on some documents but found herself daydreaming until her phone rang.


    "Brendon... where are you?"


    "I''m with Shannon. Something unexpected happened here so I might need to stay with her tonight


    instead ofing back."


    Unexpected? How many unexpected things could happen with Shannon?


    She had expected it but it still hurt every time.


    Brendon saw that she was silent and exined, "She ran into an obsessed fan in the parking lot


    who almost kidnapped her. She''s not feeling well now so I can''t leave."


    "Julia is also there."


    Julia went over to handle Shannon''s situation while that crazy fan got arrested by police.


    "Well then go ahead with your work. I''ll hang up now."


    "Ranita..." Brendon hesitated before finally saying after a long pause, "Get some rest early tonight."


    "All right!" Ranita replied softly before ending the call.


    She forced herself back to work but couldn''t concentrate because of all these mixed emotions inside


    of her head; eventually she gave up trying altogether andy down on bed scrolling through news


    articles instead.


    The next morning Julia told Ranita that Brendon personally escorted Shannon back home in


    Kurima.


    Ranita went alone to visit Allen at hospital where he started chattering once he saw her, "Sister-in-


    law, why didn''t youe see me yesterday? It''s been boring without anyone around!"


    "I had something going on yesterday."


    "Wow! I saw in the family group chat that Shannon came to Qaesburg? Is she crazy or something?


    You guys came here to work, why did shee to join the fun?" Allen mocked, noticing Ranita''s


    not-so-good expression and asked worriedly, "Sister-inw, did you not sleep wellst night? Your


    complexion doesn''t look too good."


    Ranita sat down and Allen peeled an orange for her. "Sister-inw, eat this," he said.


    "Thank you. I worked toote yesterday and didn''t rest well," Ranita replied after a pause. She then


    asked, "Are you feeling better now?"


    As for Shannon and Brendon, they were never mentioned.


    The orange tasted good - sour yet sweet. Ranita used to dislike it but now found it quite enjoyable


    as she ate it slowly with small bites. Allen peeled another one for her.


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


    "Sister-inw... why don''t you divorce Brendon?" Allen joked with a smile on his face. "You''re so


    great but my cousin doesn''t appreciate you so just ignore him."


    Ranita handed half of the orange in her hand over to Allen and said, "Kids shouldn''t meddle in adult


    affairs."


    "I''m not a kid! You''re only two years older than me! How can you say that?" Allen was speechless.


    "You''re still a kid like this," Ranita teased back at him happily. In the Stuart family, even though


    Brendon was perfect in everyone''s eyes except hers'', Allen always sided with her instead of his own


    cousin because he thought highly of her abilities.

 Chapter 207 Shocking Speech

    Chapter 207 Shocking Speech


    Chapter 207 Shocking Speech


    "Hey sis!" Allen pouted and acted like a child.


    "Okay, okay! I won''t say it anymore, okay?" Ranitaughed and said to him, "If I really divorce your


    cousin, will you still consider me your sister-inw?"


    Allen widened his eyes slightly.


    He shook his head.


    "No!" Allen pouted and grumbled in anger.


    "You dare!" Ranita raised her hand and almost pped him but luckily Allen remedied the situation


    by saying, "If you don''t want to be my sister-inw anymore, then you''ll be my sister!"


    "You''re the most beautiful sister in my heart!"


    Ranita was amused by his antics.


    After chatting for a while, Allen seemed to have something on his mind as he kept looking at his


    phone but hesitated to speak up.


    "Do you have something to say?"


    "Are you online right now?"


    "What''s up?" Ranita asked.


    Allen shook his head. "It''s nothing. I''m so bored here. Can we go out for lunch? My skin injury won''t


    affect me from eating properly anyway. Besides, the nurse is going on break soon so she won''t care


    about me! After lunch I''lle back right away."


    "Please! I''m begging you," pleaded Allen.


    Ranita had no choice but to give in after asking the nurse first before taking Allen out for lunch with


    her at a seafood restaurant that he picked out himself.


    "This restaurant is famous around here," said Allen as they ordered lots of delicious food. "Luckily


    we came early or else there wouldn''t be any seats left! Order whatever you like. It''s on me."


    Was this where Brendon wanted to take her? Too bad Brendon always stood her up.


    Ranita ate very little while Allen had an insatiable appetite; within minutes their table was filled with


    various leftovers scattered all over.


    Halfway through their meal, Allen nced at his phone again.


    "Dang it! Shannon is too much!" Finally unable to hold back any longer, he carefully looked at


    Ranita before saying, "... I''m sorry."


    "No need to apologize."


    Allen exined, "Someone leaked Shannon''s whereabouts in Qaesburg online. She was harassed


    by a sasaeng fan until Brendon protected her and took her back home."


    "... I think Shannon is wrong. Even though she used get along well with Brendon before, now she


    inexplicably got involved in your marriage which isn''t fair."


    As he spoke these words of concern towards Ranita''s feelings, he lowered downcast eyes letting


    out a sigh, "Please don''t feel sad okay?"


    Ranita pursed her lips and took a deep breath before speaking, her voice weak. "Allen, actually


    Brendon and I have already signed the divorce papers."


    "Ah..." Allen was shocked by this news and couldn''t find his bearings. "Why didn''t anyone tell me?"


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Although Allen was from the Stuarts, he wasn''t Amiya''s child and didn''t have a close rtionship


    with Holly either, so it was normal that no one told him.


    "When did this happen?"


    "It''s been some time," Ranita said with a lightugh. "Allen, you''ll have to call me sister from now


    on."


    Allen looked at Ranita with an uneasy expression on his face before nodding heavily. "Okay! I''ll call


    you sister from now on."


    "Ranita, you''re so beautiful and capable that even if you''ve divorced my cousin, you''ll definitely find


    an amazing partner in the future," Allen said maturely as he raised his tea cup to toast her.


    Then he said something unexpected to Ranita, "When I recover from my injury and make more


    money, I''m going to pursue you!"


    "My cousin doesn''t want you; I do!"


    Ranita choked on her water at this statement but eventually regained herposure enough to


    scold him sternly, "You little bastard!"

 Chapter 208 Showing Off

    Chapter 208 Showing Off


    Chapter 208 Showing Off


    Allen was just grabbed back by a hospital nurse''s phone call right after he finished his meal.


    Ranita took Allen back to the hospital and then hailed a taxi to return to the hotel. On the way, she


    browsed through some gossip news and stumbled upon information about Shannon at the bottom


    of an entry, which seemed to have been overshadowed by other hot topics.


    There was a police-certified ount that had posted a statement exining the situation.


    Shannon was almost kidnapped by a private male fan!


    Fortunately, her friend surnamed Stuart appeared just in time and not only rescued her but also took


    the suspect to the police station.


    There were some blurry photos of Shannon and Brendon''s backs, which were probably taken


    secretly at the airport.


    Shannon was sticking to Brendon''s side like she had no bones, almost asking him to carry her like a


    princess.


    "Ding dong!" A message notification sounded on the phone, a friend request.


    The note said Shannon.


    Ranita almost felt disgusted enough to throw her phone. Why would Shannon add her? Even with


    her eyes closed, she could tell it was probably to annoy her.


    Ranita did not ept the request.


    The next second, the phone rang with a "ding dong" sound again.


    It was Brendon.


    Ranita couldn''t resist and quickly clicked open.


    In an instant, her heart felt like it had fallen under a cier that had been frozen for thousands of


    years, turning into a block of ice and then shattering into powder with a snap.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "Ranita, this is Shannon. Can you add me as a friend?"


    "I''m afraid you don''t know, so I borrowed Brendon''s phone to send you a message. Please don''t be


    angry, I didn''t mean anything else."


    Ranita still hadn''t replied.


    Shannon kept talking to herself as she messaged her.


    "Ranita, why aren''t you speaking?"


    "I''m sorry! There was a little ident yesterday, and I really didn''t dare to sleep alone. So I asked


    Brendon to stay in the room with me."


    Ranita felt suffocated in her chest.


    What a disgusting hypocrite!


    "Ranita, and on behalf of Mrs. Sutton, I also want to apologize to you. She didn''t mean it! She is an


    honest person who can''t stand those dirty things! Netizens say she didn''t do it on purpose, so


    please calm down."


    It was really interesting that she can''t even sort out her own thoughts, yet she spoke for others? Did


    they have to morally ckmail Paityn just because someizens forgave her?


    Ranita typed and deleted, deleted and typed again.


    In the end, not knowing what else to say, she thought, "Why not just add Brendon to the cklist!"


    "Ding dong!"


    "Ranita, do you have something to say? I reached out to you because I wanted to apologize. Don''t


    be mad at Brendon. He just couldn''t bear to see me suffer."


    "I''m not trying to show off or anything, but Brendon and I have been childhood friends, and we have


    a great rtionship. He cares about me, you should be able to understand that."


    Although she said she wasn''t trying to show off, every word was promoting how intimate they were


    and how no one could intervene in their rtionship!


    Ranita''s heart was bleeding.


    It hurt so much that she could hardly breathe.


    Ranita didn''t reply. She was like an ostrich burying her head in the sand, as if this would help her


    avoid facing reality.


    She admitted it. She really was jealous.


    Shannon effortlessly got all of Brendon''s attention while Ranita? Time after time proved that she


    wasn''t as important in his heart as Shannon.


    Upon returning to the hotel, Jedidiah called Ranita.


    "Ranita, why didn''t you tell me about such a big thing?" Jedidiah sounded anxious. "I''m going to


    Qaesburg right away."


    "Brother... what are you talking about? What big thing?" Ranita didn''t understand.


    Jedidiah sighed and exined, "I saw Louis Wang''s tweet."


    Oh no!


    Two words suddenly popped into Ranita''s mind.

 Chapter 209 His Apology

    Chapter 209 His Apology


    Chapter 209 His Apology


    "Ranita, that blue velvet dress I had someone send to you, howe I didn''t know it was a fake?"


    "Who is Mrs. Sutton? And who is Shannon? Why are so many people saying you wore fakes?


    You''re my sister, how could you do something like this?"


    "And what about Brendon? Isn''t he supposed to be managing this? You''re his employee!"


    Jedidiah was usually mild-mannered and never spoke harshly, but today he sounded like a


    firecracker had gone off. He was clearly upset.


    Ranita tried to calm him down. "Brother, it''s just a small matter. I don''t want to trouble you with it. Mr.


    Stuart has been good to me and has been helping me out. He even contacted Louis Wang for me."


    "I''m really okay, brother," Ranita reassured him.


    Jedidiah fell silent.


    "Would youe back home to Stnd?" Jedidiah asked her pleadingly. "We raised you all these


    years and we don''t want you suffering like this! You don''t need to work for Stuart''s Corp."


    He continued passionately, "Come back and be my sister again! I''ll convince Chole!"


    Ranita felt conflicted inside.


    She had lived at Bowman''s Mansion for over ten years with the Bowmans being the happiest time


    of her life thus far; however, she knew she couldn''t go back there anymore.


    "I think I''m doing well where I am now," Ranita said gently but firmly as she smiled softly at him,


    "And as I''ve told you before, I n on studying abroad soon." She added with a chuckle, "No matter


    where in the world I am though brother, I''ll always be your sister."


    "Forever," Jedidiah agreed quietly.


    But then Ranita sensed that he wasn''t convinced yet so she continued speaking, "The online


    incident is already behind us now. Please don''t worry about it anymore." She spoke softly in her


    sweet voice which sounded as soft as summer ice cream.


    "Okay then," Jedidiah relented finally after hearing his sister''s soothing words offort. "Let''s


    forget about this incident then, but if anything else happens next time, you must tell me right away!


    Don''t forget that we''re your family and we''ll always stand by your side!"


    "I showed Mom and Dad some pictures of yours when I came homest night," Jedidiah continued


    changing topics abruptly perhaps trying not let their conversation end on an awkward note, "They


    said that you''ve lost weighttely so please eat more food."


    Ranita felt touched by the Bowmans'' concern towards her wellbeing.


    She struggled hard not cry while replying weakly, "Yes¡­yes¡­I will eat more¡­"


    Afterwards, Ranita felt heavy-hearted. She took a nap around noon, but found herself dreaming


    aimlessly without any clear direction or purpose throughout most of it.


    Without Brendon this time, Ranita was at Bowman''s Mansion with her parents and her favorite


    brother. It wasn''t until the butler brought Chole Bowman back that she realized something was


    wrong.


    Buzzing noises woke Ranita up, drenched in sweat. She stumbled out of bed and grabbed her


    phone.


    "Hello..." she mumbled groggily into the phone.


    "It''s me!" Brendon''s voice came through the other end.


    Ranita perked up a bit and rubbed her eyes, asking hoarsely, "What''s going on?"


    "I just got off a ne. I need you to bring some files to Swansea Bay for me," he said briskly.


    Ranita didn''t hesitate when it came to work. "Sure thing. Just send me the address."


    Her throat felt dry and scratchy as she spoke.


    "Are you feeling okay?" Brendon asked with concern in his voice.


    "I''m fine... just took a nap earlier," Ranita replied dismissively before adding bitterly, "It''s not like you


    care anyway."


    Brendon sighed heavily on the other end of the line before apologizing again, "I''m sorry."


    Ranita didn''t want to hear those words anymore. They always seemed to hurt more than help.


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


    "Don''t apologize to me... Miss Murphy is more important than I am anyway," she said coldly with a


    tight-lipped smile.

 Chapter 210 Little Scatterbrain

    Chapter 210 Little Scatterbrain


    Chapter 210 Little Scatterbrain


    "Ranita..." Brendon felt uneasy. He wanted to exin, but this time he had to take Shannon back to


    Kurima and Amiya wanted to talk to him.


    Amiya said the Murphy family was asking questions, wondering if Brendon and Shannon were


    engaged and if they should start preparing for it.


    Brendon didn''t agree, and Amiya got angry.


    Brendon usually tolerated Amiya''s behavior, but this time they had a fight.


    Amiya had a car ident years ago that left her legs disabled. She couldn''t handle such a big


    emotional blow at once and became obsessed with it. After long-term treatment, she had improved


    in recent years.


    This time when Brendon contradicted her, Amiya immediately went into the hospital.


    Brendon still didn''t give in.


    He hadn''t slept muchst night and had been busy all day. Brendon was tired now.


    "Forget it... it''s nothing..." Brendon wanted to tell Ranita that she was important to him. But what


    good would it do? Ranita kept secrets in her heart while he struggled with Shannon. Speaking out


    would only make things moreplicated between them all.


    "I''ll pack up my things ande over." Even though the answer was clear in her heart already, she


    still felt like she brought shame upon herself again which made Ranita feel brokenhearted once


    more.


    Brendon stayed two days in Qaesburg for meetings. Meanwhile, Ranita pulled herself together as


    well as worked hard for two days too.


    Fortunately though atst minute they managed to finalize the project.


    On the ne ride home, Ranita fell asleep as soon as she sat down. Brenden woke her up, "Ranita,


    eat something!"


    "I want sleep not food."


    Steve told her that after getting pregnant, she''d be sleepy with poor appetite so be prepared


    mentally. Ranita could rte somewhat on having poor appetite, but before being sleepy never


    happened. She thought maybe it wouldn''t happen but these past two days proved otherwise.


    Especially during their busiest times, it was no wonder she was exhausted.


    "Ranita!" Brenden grabbed her hand, his eyes scanning every inch of her pale face. He looked at


    how delicate she looked - pale and thin-chinned. Her wrists were even skinny!


    "You have some food, you can eatter when wend."


    His voice sounded low, making him sound extra gentle. Ranita squinted thinking she might be


    dreaming again.


    "I don''t want anything¡­I just want sleep." She muttered then put his palm against her cheek,


    rubbing gently while saying "Don''t bother me".


    Ranita''s face was smooth in Brendon''s palm.


    Brendon nced at her for a moment before adjusting her position to make her morefortable,


    allowing her to sleep next to him.


    Ranita slept all the way until the nended. The loud engine woke her up, and she opened her


    eyes to see the man''s cold chin.


    Her spine tensed up.


    Brendon noticed how nervous she looked like a startled deer and teased, "My arm is sore from


    being your pillow for hours."


    In a daze, Ranita had grabbed something in her hand that turned out to be Brendon''s arm. She


    pursed her lips and blushed slightly behind her ears. "I''m sorry. I must have been half asleep."


    "You''re definitely quite scatterbrained," Brendon said as he handed over a box of sweet milk that an


    air hostess had given him earlier on the flight.


    Brendon was handsome enough that every time he flew on an airne, he received special


    attention from air hostesses who provided excellent service.


    Thinking about it made Ranita feel angry - this guy was just trying to attract attention!


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    "The stewardess gave it to you but you gave it to me instead? What if she gets upset?" Ranita


    raised an eyebrow with sleepy eyes that looked like ink paintings suddenlying alive with vivid


    colors.

 Chapter 211 Sweet Milk

    Chapter 211 Sweet Milk


    Chapter 211 Sweet Milk


    Ranita looked up and saw the flight attendant looking at her with disappointment. Brendon noticed


    too.


    "What''s she looking at? It''s not my fault! I just let her deliver a box of sweet milk, that''s within her job


    scope." Brendon paused and opened the sweet milk, handing it to Ranita.


    "Ew!" Suddenly, Ranita felt nauseous as acid surged in her throat. The sweet milk was indeed


    sweet but had a hint of sourness from the milk which made Ranita unable to bear it.


    Ranita wanted to go to the bathroom but it was already closed by then. "What''s wrong?" Brendon


    asked.


    "Nothing..." Ranita forced down the nausea and took a sip of water. "Maybe I haven''t eaten anything


    for too long and smelling milk made me feel sick."


    Ranita felt guilty about lying but thankfully, Brendon didn''t suspect anything. He handed her a tissue


    saying, "You never really liked drinking milk before anyway."


    Every morning, Ranita would help prepare breakfast for Brendon who always had a ss of milk on


    his table. However, she rarely finished hers.


    He had good memory...


    They took the VIP channel, the first to disembark from the ne. Ranita went to the bathroom and


    couldn''t hold back, vomiting intensely.


    The little brat who behaved so well those days turned rebellious now, causing chaos inside Ranita''s


    stomach like someone stabbed it open with knives.


    She hadn''t eaten anything, even vomited bile. Ranita, leaning against the wall, rinsed her mouth


    and, shaking, pulled out a lemon candy from her bag.


    Brendon waited for ten minutes.


    "Why is yourplexion so bad?" Ranita walked a bit unsteadily.


    "A bit dizzy from hunger!" After a pause, Ranita said, "Dn is outside to pick me up, I''ll leave first."


    "Hold on!" said Brendon as he grabbed onto her hand. "Aren''t youing with me?"


    Why together?


    "Do you not need to go back to Bouldend Mansion?"


    Brendon frowned, took her hand, and walked forward. "I''ll take you home, then back to Bouldend


    Mansion."


    Ranita was stuffed into the car with no room for objection.


    She had to let Dn go straight home.


    The car sped all the way.


    Ranita fell asleep again, and in a daze, she seemed to be leaning on a warm embrace, especially


    warm.


    When she woke up, she was leaning on the edge of the car seat.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    That warmth was just a dream.


    ...


    No one lived there, and there was a bit of dust in the apartment. Ranita didn''t care about cleaning


    up; she just copsed on the sofa.


    Just then, the doorbell rang.


    Ranita peered through the peephole and saw that it was Julia. She opened the door in surprise and


    said, "Julia, what brings you here?"


    "Miss Bowman," Julia exined. "Mr. Stuart said you guys were rushing to catch your flight and


    didn''t have time to eat. So he asked me to bring some food over for you."


    Julia smiled as she handed over the takeout box to Ranita. "Mr. Stuart is so kind to you!" she


    eximed.


    Pausing for a moment, Julia joked, "If I didn''t know about Mr. Stuart''s rtionship with Miss Murphy,


    I might''ve thought he had feelings for you instead."


    Ranita nodded indifferently without responding directly to herment; she simply thanked Julia.


    "I just got back, and the house is a bit messy. I won''t invite Julia in. Thank you for your hard work."


    Julia, seeing Ranita''s indifferent appearance, felt an itchy hatred in her heart.


    Julia smiled and casually said, "No trouble at all. I also have to rush."


    "Well, I still have to go to the flower shop to pick up flowers for Mr. Stuart. Miss Murphy booked a


    restaurant and is waiting for Mr. Stuart to have dinner."


    "So envious!" Julia sighed and asked Ranita, "Miss Bowman, don''t you think so?"

 Chapter 212 Weakness

    Chapter 212 Weakness


    Chapter 212 Weakness


    Julia''s words were a bit ambiguous, but Ranita didn''t suspect much. Over the years, she had


    be quite easygoing and her heart was not bad.


    "Yeah!" Ranita nodded lightly. "Julia, go do your thing!"


    The takeout was considerate - it was a light lotus root and lean meat porridge, along with a carefully


    prepared stew.


    "I had Julia bring you some food. Did you receive it?" Brendon''s message came at just the right


    time.


    Ranita took a bite and then another one. The porridge tasted good, but unfortunately she couldn''t


    taste anything besides bitterness.


    Brendon probably only felt obligated to fulfill hisst duty as her husband now.


    Only she always held onto unrealistic fantasies.


    "I received it. Thank you." Ranita replied to Brendon, tears rolling down her face when she lowered


    her eyes silently revealing the heart-wrenching pain within her soul.


    Ranita didn''t like crying.


    In her life motto crying never solved any problems! She built a dam in her mind using strength as an


    outer wall to hide all of the weakness and helplessness away.


    But now there was a hole in that dam.


    She cried like someone who has lost everything they ever loved before.


    Ranita found out about Shannon''s news and Eve''s cursing on the following day.


    "Your husband is so outrageous! You''re not evenpletely divorced yet he can''t wait? Didn''t he


    juste back from Qaesburg? And already made ns with her?"


    "I really want to expose what happened between them online!"


    ...


    There were several messages retracted below this one; those above probably weren''t able to be


    taken back in time.


    Shannon was known as the nation''s sweetheart with high poprity online.


    Just two days ago because of being harassed by a sasaeng fan went viral on hot search results;


    now another photo caused an uproar again.


    In this photo Shannon wore a small white dress holding bright red roses while smiling brightly


    showing off pure beauty.


    Twelve roses neither more nor less.


    Twelve red roses represent all love.


    This implied Brendon''s feelings towards Shannon.


    Ranita closed off the news feed and sent Eve a message, "You''re sick. Rest well and don''t get


    angry."


    Eve replied instantly, "You blockhead! Who do you think I''m getting mad for? Isn''t it all because of


    you?"


    "Ranita, you''re really something. If I were that stimted, I would have ended Shannon with a


    knife!"


    "She''s being too shy for someone who''s just a mistress."


    After venting her emotions, Eve retracted her words one by one. "Sorry Ranita, I shouldn''t have


    brought her up."


    "It''s easier to find a two-legged man than a three-legged frog. Besides, I''m in the entertainment


    industry and there are plenty of handsome guys around. Once you get your divorce papers, I''ll


    introduce you to a stepdad for your baby."


    "Let''s kick that scumbag Brendon out!"


    Maybe she was still angry because Eve asked again, "Who doesn''t act cute? Ranita darling, do you


    also act like that?"


    Ranita smiled and felt better. She hugged her phone and giggled when she heard knocking on the


    door outside.


    "Dn, why did youe so early?" Ranita had slept well and looked better than yesterday.


    "I brought chicken congee and bagels for you to eat quickly," Dn said as he carefully examined


    her appearance. "You lost weight after going to Qaesburg."


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Dn didn''t mention yesterday''s incident but instead chattered about Eve at the hospital - how


    unreasonable she was and how she always bullied him (but he wasn''t an easy target either).


    As theyughed over their funny stories together, Ranita watched Dn secretly smile.


    How could this big fool not notice Eve''s feelings towards him?

 Chapter 213 Confrontation

    Chapter 213 Confrontation


    Chapter 213 Confrontation


    "Eve said, ''Let''s go on a trip together once she feels better. The three of us haven''t gone out to y


    in a long time.''"


    Dn spoke with an eager expression.


    Ranita smiled and nodded. "Yeah... it has been a while since thest time we went out together,


    before I got married to Brendon. We all piled into one car and went to see the mountains and the


    ocean."


    "If you don''t want to go to Greece, I can buy you a house in Yrens Province for you to live in. When


    we have time, we cane visit you there. You said you liked it there, right?" Dn suggested.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Who wouldn''t love poetry and distant ces?


    But...


    If she didn''t go far away, Ranita feared that she won''t be able to resist missing him.


    "Forget it. Greece is also very beautiful," Ranita decisively declined Dn''s proposal, disappointing


    him greatly.


    While Ranita ate breakfast, Dn wandered around the apartment until he let out an exmation


    from the bathroom.


    "What happened?"


    Dn''s face was covered in water droplets that dripped onto his clothes as he looked at Ranita


    speechlessly. "What''s wrong with your water? It scared me."


    Ranita touched her forehead apologetically as she looked at Dn, "Sorry about that. I forgot to tell


    you not to turn on that faucet because it leaks."


    "Go turn off the water. I''ll fix it for you," Dn replied casually.


    Ranita watched Dn fix the water pipe, smiling, "I didn''t expect you to do this!"


    "Don''t underestimate me. I''ve reced the water pipes and light bulbs at Eve''s house. It''s a piece of


    cake!"


    Ranita chuckled.


    After Dn fixed the faucet, his clothes were in a mess. Ranita had to find a piece of clothing that


    Brendon rarely wore and handed it to him.


    "It''s Brendon''s, he rarely wears it. If you mind, I can buy you a new one."


    Dn wasn''t initially willing to wear it, but to avoid troubling Ranita to buy a new one, he took it,


    saying, "I''ll wear it for now. I have spare clothes in my car. I''ll dry clean it and bring it to you."


    "Okay!" Ranita thought Brendon probably wouldn''te over soon; he had tofort the startled


    Shannon.


    "Also, dry your hair while you''re at it."


    Ranita curled up on the sofa reading a magazine when she received a call from the professor,


    "Ranita, have you returned from your business trip?"


    Ranitia felt uneasy, sensing bad newsing. She stiffened up before answering nervously, "Yes,


    I''m back!"


    "That''s great! Are you free tonight?"


    "I''m free tonight." Indeed, the next second, the professor said with a smile, "I''ve reserved a spot at


    the Green Meadow Restaurant near the school. Remember toe before 7:00!"


    Ranita couldn''t refuse.


    The professor had been trying so hard for her.


    "Okay, I''ll be there on time..." Ranita hung up the phone feeling embarrassed as she heard the


    sound of her door opening.


    She sat up and turned to see Brendon walking in with his long legs.


    "What are you doing here?"


    Brendon took a few steps forward, leisurely unbuttoning his shirt. Just as he was about to speak,


    Dn poked his head out of the bathroom and called out, "Ranita, who''s here?"


    "Dn?" Brendon''s expression turned cold all of a sudden as he looked at Dn''s clothes. His eyes


    darkened like storm clouds.


    "Brendon? What brings you here?"


    One sentence ignited an inferno between them.


    Brendon undid another button and stared dangerously at Dn. "I came home. Do I need to report


    to you about it?"


    Dn leaned against the wall and sneered, "Home? Did you get too drunk from your candlelit


    dinner with Shannonst night? This is Ranita''s home - what does it have to do with you anyway?"


    In an instant, sparks flew everywhere.

 Chapter 214 Unfair Treatment

    Chapter 214 Unfair Treatment


    Chapter 214 Unfair Treatment


    Ranita was afraid that the two of them would start fighting, so she signaled to Dn, "Dn, you go


    back first."


    Dn hesitated for a moment and gritted his teeth in anger but still obediently left. He even helped


    take out the trash before leaving.


    Ranita walked him to the door and reminded him, "Remember to sort the garbage and stay safe on


    your way back."


    The door closed behind Dn.


    Inside the apartment, tension hung in the air.


    "Can you exin what happened?" Brendon asked.


    "He helped fix a leaky pipe and got his clothes wet. It''s not what you think," Ranita pursed her lips.


    "He couldn''t wear my clothes so I took yours without asking. I''m sorry for not consulting with you


    first."


    "It''s my fault. I''ll buy you another shirt," Brendon grabbed her wrist and pulled her closer until she


    sat on hisp unsteadily.


    Brendon looked fierce as he asked again, "You''re not lying?"


    "There''s no need for me to lie," Ranita lowered her eyes. When they met again, there was a faint


    lipstick mark on Brendon''s white shirt cor that belonged to someone else''s and perfume scent


    that smelled sweet but prickly like thorns.


    Ranita felt wronged by it all; why did men have such bad tendencies? Even though he was hurting


    her himself, he could still me it all on her with such conviction!


    "I''ll trust you one more time! You can keep the shirt!" Brendon pressed his hand against Ranita''s


    waist as if trying to get closer while asking nonchntly, "Did you have breakfast this morning?"


    "I already ate!"


    "Well I haven''t yet..." Brendon rested his forehead against hers, his tone casual, breath brushing


    against her nose, and his lips kissed the corner of her mouth.


    This made Ranita feel flustered inside; she asked him nervously, "Are we okay now?"


    "I trust you," just those few words made Ranita feel like she had stepped into mud up past her


    ankles. Looking at Brendon encouraged herself maybe she should gather up some courage...


    perhaps there was still hope?


    "Brendon... I want to say... we shouldn''t..." She didn''t finish speaking because then Brendon''s


    phone rang from inside his pocket interrupting them both.


    Ranita moved away to watch Brendon answer the phone.


    Brendon nced at her, "It''s Shannon''s call. I''ll take it."


    "Up to you." Ranita''s opinion didn''t matter much. She sat quietly, flipping through a magazine, but


    her mind was elsewhere, unable to focus on anything.


    "Shannon, what''s wrong?" The man''s voice gently rang out, sounding more tender than usual.


    He was different with Shannon.


    Ranita couldn''t hear what Shannon said clearly. Brendon quickly hung up, saying, "Ranita, I rushed


    out earlier and left behind some documents. Shannon offered to bring them over."


    "You..."


    "Okay!" Ranita generously agreed. Even if she didn''t agree, Shannon would stille over. There


    was no need to waste any more words.


    Shannon arrived quickly.


    She stood at the door wearing a pretty little dress, looking like a delicate youngdy who had been


    pampered since childhood.


    "Sorry for bothering you, Ranita!" After speaking, Shannon''s gaze fell on Brendon as she handed


    him the document, "Brendon, why did you rush out so quickly? You even forgot your things."


    Brendon took the document and was about to speak when Shannon stepped forward and asked,


    "I''m a bit tired. Can Ie in for some water?"


    Ranita didn''t want her toe in.


    "Miss Murphy..." Just then, a delivery guy came with a bouquet of red roses.


    The bouquet was beautifully packaged and looked familiar. Ranita''s heart thumped as she watched


    while Shannon happily went up to receive the roses.


    "Brendon, did you send me these flowers? They''re so beautiful! I really like them!"


    Shannon coquettishly threw Brendon an alluring look.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    The delivery guy took two steps back hesitantly and looked at Shannon, "Excuse me! These flowers


    are for someone named Miss Bowman. Are you her?"

 Chapter 215 The Roses

    Chapter 215 The Roses


    Chapter 215 The Roses


    For Ranita?


    Shannon couldn''t believe her ears!


    "Are you sure about this?" Shannon''s pitiful eyes asked.


    The delivery guy was embarrassed. "The name, phone number, and address were all written


    clearly. How could I be wrong?"


    This made Shannon even more pitiful.


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked like she had been bullied!


    The delivery guy was also quick-witted. He was a little speechless, "Miss, why are you looking at


    me like that? If you''re Miss Bowman, I''ll give you the flowers! If not... these weren''t meant for you,


    so why are you jealous?"


    Even Ranita felt embarrassed for Shannon.


    But inside she felt really happy.


    She had to give the delivery guy who upheld universal justice a five-star rating!


    "I''m Ranita Bowman!" Ranita said softly after verifying the information on the order form.


    After checking everything over again, the delivery guy smiled and handed over the flowers to Ranita


    before happily running off.


    Ranita was in a good mood as she carried the red roses into her house and ced them on a table.


    "Ranita, who sent those beautiful red roses to you?"


    "It''s just... it looks too much like what I received yesterday so I misunderstood."


    "I''m sorry!"


    Shannon really had thick skin. She acted like nothing happened after such an awkward situation


    just now.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    "Miss Murphy, you seem pretty idle these days." Ranita said indifferently while pulling out a card


    from within bouquet of flowers. After taking one look at it, she knew who sent them - Allen!


    "Giving all my love to you!" Shannon leaned in with her face close by while reading out loud from


    Allen''s cheesy message on his card. "Wow that is super cheesy! So who sent these roses


    anyway?"


    "Brendon, aren''t you curious too?" Shannon asked Brendon while dragging him into their


    conversation war zone.


    Brendon''s heart suddenly became cold as if he were caught up in an icy storm when he heard that


    someone gave red roses along with such sappy words. Could it have been her "brother"?


    "Who sent them to you then, Ranita?" Brenden asked harshly with an unpleasant tone which


    sounded angry.


    Looking at Brenden then back towards Shannon, Ranita replied coolly, "Probably someone who


    likes me."


    "Miss Murphy, you have so many fans. Haven''t you received flowers from male admirers before?"


    Shannon teased, "But this is a red rose, and there are twelve of them... Ranita, do you know the


    meaning of twelve red roses? It symbolizes love."


    This only fueled Brendon''s anger.


    He dragged Ranita into the room and mmed the door shut.


    His strong arms trapped her in an embrace while his long legs pinned hers down. He towered over


    her as he spoke coldly, "Ranita, is it your dear brother again?"


    He was always so domineering.


    He could date Shannon and give her red roses but when it came to Ranita, he had double


    standards.


    "Brendon, does it really matter who gave me the flowers?"


    "Of course..." Before he could finish his sentence, there was a knock on the door followed by


    Shannon''s soft voice saying, "Brendon, Ranita... do you want toe out for a bit?"


    Shannon was getting impatient. Brendon had just dragged Ranita into the room in front of her. Who


    knew what they were doing inside!


    Fortunately, luck was on her side, as someone suddenly arrived at the door.


    "Someone sent flowers for Ranita!"


    Three bouquets in total, neatly arranged and exactly like the red roses on the table.


    Did they just stir up a rose storm?

 Chapter 216 Heartfelt Thoughts

    Chapter 216 Heartfelt Thoughts


    Chapter 216 Heartfelt Thoughts


    The bouquets were exactly the same.


    Looking at the imprint on the card, they all came from the same store!


    "Ranita, you have so many admirers! Four of them came at once. I''m really jealous... unlike me, I


    only know one guy well - Brendon," Shannon said in a snarky tone.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Brendon picked up a card from one of the bouquets and saw the handwritten signature on it. He


    was so angry that he crumpled it into a ball.


    Steve!


    Then another one - Dn!


    And finally Chris''s!


    Dn was understandable, but what did Steve and Chris mean? Were they his friends or


    something?!


    Ranita also saw them and felt touched inside.


    Except for Dn, these people weren''t particrly close to her, but their gesturesforted her


    nheless.


    Steve''s message was sent first, "Did you receive your flowers? If others have them, then of course


    you should too. Be happy."


    Then came Dn''s, "The flowers werete. Someone didn''t give them to you so I did! From now on


    I''ll bring you some every day! Brendon will be furious!"


    As for Chris, there was no news yet.


    But Ranita could feel their intentions behind it all.


    "Ranita!" Brendon reached out and took away her phone. "What is this about? Why are they


    sending you flowers?"


    Shannon saw that Brendon wasn''t happy about it and tried to console him, "Brendon, don''t be


    angry! Ranita is young and pretty. It''s normal for guys to pursue her..."


    This wasn''t consoling at all; she was just pouring oil onto fire.


    Shannon looked self-righteous as she continued speaking, "Ranita, you shouldn''t act like this... you


    haven''t finished things with Brendon yet. How can you do something without any moral bottom


    line?"


    Shannon had quite an interesting personality...


    If anyonecked moral bottom lines here, then Ranita knew she couldn''t keep up with herself either.


    How dared Shannon say such things?


    "Miss Murphy," Ranita spoke up firmly. "This is between me and Brendon. Please don''t interfere!


    Otherwise if I can''t help but say something that hits your sore spotter on, then crybabying over


    me won''t make any difference."


    After a pause, Ranita took her phone back from Brendon''s hand and looked at him with a faint


    expression. Taking a cue from Shannon, she spoke sweetly and softly, "Brendon, they''re all my


    friends. I haven''t been feeling greattely, so them sending me flowers isn''t too much to ask for! It''s


    just one bouquet of flowers. You don''t mind, do you?"


    Ranita smiled as Brendon''s eyes darkened.


    He always hurt her like this.


    "Ranita!" Brendon lowered his voice in anger as it crept up to his forehead. He was sharp like the


    winter wind that cut through people.


    But Ranita wasn''t going to back down - what was the point of giving in? She had been disappointed


    so many times before that it left her bruised all over.


    "Brendon, why are you so angry?" She feigned innocence and helplessness. Who wouldn''t know


    how to do that? "Brendon, you''re being unfair! You send Miss Murphy gifts and flowers and take her


    out on dates! What did I say wrong? Am I not allowed my friends sending me one bouquet of


    flowers?"


    As she spoke those words out loud, Ranita felt disgusted with herself for stooping so low.


    But men were easily swayed by such tactics.


    Brendon''s anger dissipated somewhat as he pulled Ranita into his arms in front of Shannon. He


    gritted his teeth but used his fingers to wipe away the tears at the corners of her eyes.

 Chapter 217 Unable To Argue

    Chapter 217 Unable To Argue


    Chapter 217 Unable to Argue


    "Don''t be jealous, no crying allowed!" Threatened, Ranita reached out and hit Brendon, annoyed.


    "You''re scolding me again!"


    "Are you determined to make a fool out of me in front of Miss Murphy?!" Ranita''s voice was soft,


    charming and annoyed, scratching like a cat''s paw, making people itch.


    Brendon found this version of Ranita interesting and lively, stirring his heart.


    "I didn''t scold you," Brendon said sullenly. "So many people giving you flowers, dedicating all their


    love to you? Too cheesy!"


    Ranita thought to herself: Did you say anything cheesy when you were with Shannon?


    Heh heh! Men!


    "You like flowers, so I''ll give them to you. Don''t ept others''!" At Brendon''s words, Ranita''s heart


    raced.


    Shannon turned pale immediately. Sheined to Brendon, "Brendon... ah... I feel a bit dizzy."


    As soon as Shannon spoke, she copsed to the ground.


    "Shannon!" Brendon rushed to help, but Ranita instinctively grabbed his hand. "Honey, I''m also


    dizzy!"


    "Thud!"


    The apartment had no carpet, and Shannon fell to the ground with a loud sound, making Ranita feel


    it was painful.


    At this moment, Ranita felt strangely relieved.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Brendon! It hurts so much! Can youe over and help me?" Shannon, lying on the ground,


    looked up at Brendon with misty eyes.


    So pitiful!


    Brendon, unable to bear it, helped Ranita sit down. "I''ll go help..."


    "Brendon! I''m also feeling dizzy! Can you carry me to the room to rest?" Ranita grabbed Brendon''s


    hand and wouldn''t let him go.


    Ranita didn''t want topete initially, but Shannon was too much!


    "Miss Murphy, you''re too impulsive... me yourself for this. I see yourplexion is good. You


    should be able to get up on your own, right? My husband can''t help you. I''m really sorry!" Ranita


    said with a fake smile, ncing at Brendon and murmuring, "My calf hurts, like cramping!"


    When Brendon heard this, he immediately asked, "How did you get cramps? Let me see!"


    Brendon''s caring demeanor made Shannon red-eyed with anger. She clenched her fists, bing


    increasingly aggrieved. She gasped unevenly and said, "Ranita, are you doing this on purpose?


    You just don''t want Brendon to help me! What did I do to offend you?"


    "Brendon, I really can''t get up. Can you please help me?" Shannon bit her lip hard, leaving a visible


    blood mark on her pink lips. She looked pitiful.


    Brendon couldn''t stand it anymore.


    "Ranita..."


    Seeing Brendon relenting, Shannon began to cry silently with sobs that shook her body but no


    sound came out. It was as if she was enduring pain and grievance that made people feel sorry for


    her.


    Shannon was really good at expressing herself; every gesture and expression could urately


    capture a man''s sympathy.


    "Brendon... I..." Shannon started speaking softly but didn''t finish before tilting over and hitting the


    table leg beside them directly with a loud bang!


    The table leg hit off-bnce causing the small round table to fall directly onto Shannon''s head!


    Everything on the table also fell onto the ground with a crash.


    For an instant there was chaos everywhere.


    Ranita was dumbfounded by what had just happened.


    "Shannon!" Now Brendon didn''t care about Ranita anymore; he rushed over and pushed away the


    small round table before picking up Shannon and running outside saying "I''ll take Shannon to the


    hospital."


    The door mmed shut behind them making Ranita snap back into reality again.


    She knew she couldn''tpete after all.

 Chapter 218 He Refused The Engagement

    Chapter 218 He Refused The Engagement


    Chapter 218 He Refused the Engagement


    Ranita called for a cleaning service and threw the small table out, then sprayed an entire bottle of


    air freshener. The scent was so strong that even Ranita couldn''t bear it.


    Deciding to leave, Ranita headed to the hospital to visit Eve with a bouquet of sunflowers in hand.


    As she waited for the elevator, she heard Amiya''s voice behind her say, "Ranita?"


    Ranita frowned and took a few steps back without saying anything.


    Amiya sneered, "I was just looking for you. Since we''ve met now, let''s talk."


    "Sorry, I have something else going on right now and can''t entertain you," Ranita replied curtly. She


    used to be at Amiya''s beck and call because of Brendon but now she couldn''t be bothered.


    "Since you don''t know your ce," Amiya threatened as she waved her hand. Her bodyguard


    immediately stepped forward towards Ranita.


    They took Ranita to a corner in the rooftop garden where Amiya sat in her wheelchair with a cold


    expression as she looked up and down at Ranita.


    Ranita was indeed impable in terms of looks, with a high nose,rge eyes, fair skin, and a


    naturally cold temperament. Brendon, having been with her for several years, had some reluctance


    to part with her, which was understandable.


    "Ranita, did you arrange for someone to bump into Shannon?"


    "It has nothing to do with me!" Without hesitation or thought, Ranita replied. "Mrs. Stuart, it is illegal


    to restrict citizens'' freedom by means of coercion."


    "Heh! Are you threatening me?"Amiyaughed lightly. "Have we done anything to you? I haven''t


    done anything!"


    Looking around at the bodyguards surrounding them, Ranita wondered what they meant by not


    doing anything?


    "What do you want from me, Mrs. Stuart?" Ranita asked.


    Amiya wouldn''te looking for her without reason; surely something must have happened?


    Pushing closer in her wheelchair, Amiya red resentfully at Ranita and said, "Because of you, I am


    suffering here in the hospital! Because of you, Brendon refused Shannon''s engagement proposal


    and even defied me, resulting in my hospitalization." Pausing briefly, Amiya stared at Ranita before


    saying, "Do you think you should die?"


    Brendon refused Shannon''s engagement proposal? How could this be possible!


    A mixture of heavy emotions swirled inside Ranita like mud bubbles. It felt both oppressive yet also


    difficult to suppress some degree of pleasure too.


    "Ranita, this is my final warning to you. Stay away from Brendon! If you dare to shamelessly cling


    onto him again..." As Amiya''s voice trailed off lightly, the bodyguard stepped forward and twisted


    Ranita''s hands, pushing her towards Amiya.


    Amiya pinched Ranita''s chin with her fingers and her gaze slowly became more sinister. "If your


    delicate little face gets ruined, it would be such a pity!"


    "And these legs... human bones are fragile. Who knows if they''ll break just by walking on the street?


    You might never stand up again!"


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Amiya''s threat sent chills down Ranita''s spine.


    When she was at Bouldend Mansion, she had heard that due to a car ident, Amiya had


    unstable mental health. The Stuart family members basically dared not provoke her for fear of any


    extreme actions she might take.


    Initially when Ranita married into the family, Amiya had a big argument with Wyatt about it and


    eventuallypromised by going to a rehabilitation center for three months.


    It took a while for Ranita toe back to reality.


    She let out a sigh and turned around only to see Steve in his white coat. "What are you doing here


    sunbathing alone?"


    Ranita smiled. "Dr. Pearson? What brings you here?"


    "A little kid said he saw a prettydy being bullied so he called me over as backup but I guess I was


    toote." Steve paused before handing over some cotton candy. "The kid said this is for you so


    don''t be sad."

 Chapter 219 Praise

    Chapter 219 Praise


    Chapter 219 Praise


    Ranita took the cotton candy.


    She looked down the corridor and noticed a little head leaning against the wall at the corner, a pair


    of big ck eyes curiously watching her.


    "Please thank the little hero for me. He''s really a cute kid," Ranita said, smiling broadly at the boy


    from a distance.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    The little boy widened his eyes and waved at her cautiously.


    "He''s so adorable," Ranita giggled.


    "I know, right? These little angels are amazing. His name is Starlet, and he has congenital heart


    disease. But he''s lucky; he recently found a donor match and will have surgery soon," Steve


    exined.


    Steve may look cold on the outside, but inside he was warm-hearted and respected as an excellent


    doctor. Suddenly, Ranita realized how much of a shining star Steve really was.


    "You''re amazing too, Dr. Pearson," sheplimented him with admiration in her voice.


    Steve crossed his arms over his chest and grinned widely. "Wow! Thank you for your praise! I''m


    honored!"


    After pausing for a moment to think about it, Steve lowered his voice slightly before saying, "Are you


    feeling better now? If so, go visit your friend instead of basking in the sun here."


    Ranita did feel better now thanks to Steve''s kindness.


    "Thank you Dr. Pearson; you''re such a good person!" she replied gratefully.


    Steve felt mildly ufortable receiving praise like this.


    In the hospital room, Eve, upon seeing Ranita, became as happy as a child. "My Ranita darling, you


    finally came!"


    "Did you receive the roses I had Dn deliver to you?" she asked.


    Ranita nodded, "Yes, I got them! I knew it must be one of your quirky ideas!"


    "How can you call it a quirky idea? If that scum Brendon saw it, it would be like being cheated," Eve


    defended herself,pletely unapologetic.


    Ranita sighed, thinking that while it might not be surprising for Eve and Allen to pull such stunts,


    Steve and Chris didn''t seem like the type.


    "I really appreciate it... Now I have a bunch of red roses at home!"


    Eve suddenly caught a bug in Ranita''s words and raised an eyebrow, asking, "A bunch? I only had


    Dn deliver one bouquet. Who sent the rest?"


    Ranita had no choice but to recount the melodramatic events of the day.


    Eve rolled her eyes dramatically beforementing sarcastically, "What an absolute maniptive


    woman pretending innocence!"


    "Why are you so useless!" Eve grabbed her hand and touched here and there, showing her


    disapproval.


    "You''re delicate and fair-skinned, with a pretty face. I think you look better than Shannon, but why


    do you always lose to her?"


    Ranita didn''t know what to say.


    Luckily she didn''t go into too much detail. If Eve knew that she lost to Shannon even when it came


    to acting cute, she would definitely throw a punch!


    "Who knows!" Ranita handed her an apple. "Have some fruit."


    "Thanks, babe!" Eve took it happily and asked, "Will you have dinner with me tonight? I''m so bored


    here!"


    Ranita had ns for the evening. "I have something to do and can''t apany you."


    "What? You have ns? With who?" Curious as ever, Eve suddenly widened her eyes. "Oh... is it a


    handsome guy?"


    Ranita felt embarrassed by the question and shook her head, "No, just having a meal with the


    senior."


    "Senior? Do I know him?" Eve, being the gossip she was, made Ranita feel defenseless. Blushing,


    Ranita exined, "The professor insisted that we meet. You know the professor''s personality. If I


    don''t go, he might pester me for the entire year."


    "Anyway, I just go for a meal. I don''t think Vincent had any other intentions."


    Vincent used to work in the Department of Trantion and Interpretation, and their work didn''t


    ovep much. Even if they had met a couple of times, it was from a distance, and they weren''t


    particrly familiar with each other.

 Chapter 220 Manipulative Woman

    Chapter 220 Maniptive Woman


    Chapter 220 Maniptive Woman


    "That''s not necessarily true!" Eve raised her eyebrows at Ranita, drawing out her tone as she


    hummed, "Our Ranita is beautiful and talented, excellent in every way. Maybe the senior has


    already noticed you!"


    "Looks like you''re acting again. Keep making things up!" Ranitaughed.


    She had spent an afternoon with Eve at the hospital and when she saw that it was almost time to


    leave, she picked up her bag and headed for the door.


    But just as she walked to the elevator, she saw someone she didn''t want to see.


    Shannon sat on a wheelchair with a look of grievance on her face. "Ranita! What a coincidence!"


    "I''m sorry if I disturbed you today." Pausing for a moment, Shannon asked again worriedly, "I


    identally fainted. Did I break anything in your house? If something is damaged, I''ll pay for it."


    Ranita replied indifferently, "No need."


    After speaking, Ranita walked directly into the elevator without looking back. "Miss Murphy, you can


    take the next one if you don''t hurry up," she said coldly.


    "Wait a moment!" Shannon anxiously reached out, "Brendon ising soon. Let''s wait!"


    Ranita had no desire to see them in a lovey-dovey situation, so she pressed the close door button.


    "Sorry, I''m in a hurry! Miss Murphy, take the next elevator."


    "Ranita!" Shannon insisted on blocking the door and even ignored the safety concerns, reaching out


    her hand.


    "Shannon! What are you doing? It''s dangerous!" Just then, Brendon arrived in time and pulled


    Shannon''s hand back.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    The elevator doors, responding to the automatic sensor, reopened.


    Ranita met Brendon''s eyes, and he seemed surprised. "What are you doing here?"


    "Visiting a friend!"


    While talking, Brendon pushed Shannon into the elevator. The space inside became a bit crowded.


    Brendon stood next to Ranita, and his hand lightly touched hers.


    Ranita moved away.


    His hand came back a bit, grabbing her fingers and scratching her palm a few times.


    It tickled.


    Ranita red at Brendon from the corner of her eye, only to find Brendon looking at her with starry


    eyes, a hint of a smile at the corners of his eyes.


    Instantly half of Ranita''s anger dissipated.


    "Why didn''t you tell me that you wereing here?" Brendon asked softly.


    "I came to see my friend. There wasn''t much else to say." After a pause, Ranita looked at Shannon,


    a smirk ying on her lips as she said with a hint of sarcasm, "Besides, Miss Murphy is not feeling


    well and needs someone to take care of her. I won''t disturb you any longer."


    "Ranita, don''t be angry!" Shannon immediately interjected, speaking softly and weakly. "The doctor


    said I have low blood sugar. I didn''t faint on purpose!"


    "Thank goodness Brendon doesn''t mind me being a burden. Otherwise, I would be so heartbroken!"


    Ranita''s anger red up again.


    Shannon was really nauseating with her constant whining.


    Brendon furrowed his brow but didn''t say anything. He lightly tapped Ranita''s hand with his fingers.


    Ranita wanted to shake it off in anger but seeing Shannon''s face she grabbed Brendon''s hand and


    leaned against him saying, "Miss Murphy, you''re overthinking things! Brendon watched you grow up


    and sees you as a little sister. If he isn''t angry, then there is no reason for me to be either! It''s just a


    table. If it breaks or gets dirty, we can throw it away."


    Shannon was seething inside.


    She wanted to rush over and immediately pry open Ranita''s hand but pretending to be weak while


    sitting in the wheelchair made that difficult.


    Shannon pouted her lips and stared at them with big innocent eyes saying, "It''s good that you aren''t


    angry. It''s all my fault for being so unlucky every day which makes Brendon worry about me so


    much and spend so much time apanying me. I feel really guilty."

 Chapter 221 Are You Really Here For A Blind Date?

    Chapter 221 Are You Really Here For A Blind Date?


    Chapter 221 Are You Really Here for a Blind Date?


    "Ugh!"


    Ranita felt a wave of nausea rise in her throat and couldn''t help but cover her mouth.


    "Are you okay?" Brendon asked, concerned. "Did you eat something bad?"


    "It''s nothing... just feeling a little sick," Ranita replied as the elevator stopped and she quickly rushed


    out.


    "I have to go do something first."


    Ranita drank some water in the car to calm herself down.


    She leaned back against the seat, resting for a few minutes before receiving a message from


    Vincent.


    In the Green Meadow Restaurant.


    From afar, Ranita saw Vincent wearing a white shirt. Vincent had well-defined features and stood


    tall with an air of righteousness about him.


    "Are you Ranita? My junior?" Vincent smiled brightly at her. "I''m Vincent."


    "Vincent, it''s an honor to meet you," Ranita nodded politely as they shook hands and sat down


    together.


    Vincent poured tea for her and ordered some light dishes. He smiled at her saying, "I heard from


    our professor that your taste is more on the lighter side so if there''s anything else you''d like instead,


    just let me know."


    Vincent worked in the Department of Trantion and Interpretation where he interacted with people


    outside of their university. His voice was deep yet pleasant to listen to; he had an innate


    persuasiveness that made him sound convincing - definitely someone with good vocal cords!


    "These are fine. Thank you," she replied gratefully as they waited for their food.


    While waiting for their meal, Vincent took initiative by starting up conversation, "Professor often


    mentions your name so it''s great we finally get to meet each other."


    "I''ve actually seen you on TV before," Ranitaughed along too.


    She thought it would be awkward but found that Vincent was easy-going and always managed to


    bring up topics that interested her - especially since they both studied trantion which gave them


    common ground.


    Overall, they had a good chat over dinner.


    Afterwards, Vincent proposed taking a walk around Kurima Foreign Studies University while visiting


    their professor who was still workingte into the night.


    The campus was particrly quiet during this time of night. They walked along the path for a while


    before Ranita curiously asked, "I heard from our professor that you''re nning on teaching here


    again."


    "Yeah! I''ve been in the Department of Trantion and Interpretation for quite some time now. I''m


    getting tired, and besides, it''s time I give younger people opportunities too." Although Vincent was


    older than Ranita by a year or two, his age wasn''t considered old either way!


    "You''re not old at all!" She chuckled lightly in response.


    "But the Department of Trantion and Interpretation is really busy, I''m losing my hair!" Vincent said


    with a lowugh. "So I want to take a break and start a family. The professor just told me that the


    college needs teachers, so I''ll take up the position."


    In other words, Vincent wasn''tpletely leaving the Department of Trantion and Interpretation.


    As Ranita thought about Vincent''s words, she suddenly realized that he was stealing nces at her


    from the corner of his eye. Her heart thumped as she understood.


    Could it be that Vincent was really here for a blind date with her!?


    After hesitating for a moment, Ranita spoke up, "Vincent, actually... there''s something I think I


    should tell you."


    "I have someone I like," she said.


    "And then?" Vincent smiled. "Are you two together?"


    Ranita didn''t know how to answer.


    They weren''t going to be together; they were going to separate.


    Ranita fell silent and Vincent didn''t press further. Instead he said, "We''re all adults here. Who


    doesn''t have someone they like? But... as long as you haven''t gotten together with him yet, then


    there''s still hope for me."


    "Ranita," he continued. "Life is short. Maybe you can consider taking another path and perhaps gain


    some different precious experiences along the way. What do you think?"


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita tilted her head slightly towards him and nodded in agreement, "You''re right. Buttely, I


    haven''t been thinking about matters of love too much."


    "What about in the future?" asked Vincent.


    "In the future... maybe!" replied Ranita nervously.


    Vincent smiled again at her under the streetlight - his lips red against his white teeth - saying, "That


    works! Let''s formally introduce ourselves now. My name is Vincent Ramos, but from now on, let me


    pursue you."

 Chapter 222 Is There Any Extra Credit?

    Chapter 222 Is There Any Extra Credit?


    Chapter 222 Is There Any Extra Credit?


    "You don''t have to worry about it. We''re all adults, and if I can''t catch up with you, I''ll know when to


    back off." With a few words, Vincent eased the awkwardness.


    Ranita thought that Vincent was very insightful.


    He was truly a wonderful person.


    "Vincent, you''re really well-traveled," Ranitaughed and gave him a thumbs up.


    "Does that earn me extra credit?" Vincent asked.


    Ranita continued to smile and joked, "It does."


    "Well then!"


    As they chatted, they arrived at the faculty dormitory. The professor was surprised to see them


    together at his door. "Weren''t you guys going out for dinner? Why are you here?"


    "After dinner we wanted toe see you. We didn''t disturb you did we?" Vincent spoke gently.


    "No no! Come on in! It''s quite coincidental actually. Mia is here too! You young people can chat."


    Ranita raised an eyebrow. Mia?


    Following the professor inside, Ranita saw Mia whom she hadn''t seen in several days. She greeted


    Ranita with enthusiasm, "Ranita!"


    "And who is this?"


    The professor quickly introduced them but Vincent wasn''t particrly warm towards Mia and after


    greeting her, he apanied the professor for tea instead of joining their conversation.


    Vincent knew about Ranita''s n of opening a studio with Mia before but now that she had stopped


    doing it. He wanted to ask why but since they were in front of the professor, he refrained from


    asking further questions.


    The three casually chatted for a while without bringing up anything between Ranita and Mia while in


    front of the professor.


    Halfway through their conversation, Brendon called Ranita on her phone, "Ranita, are you still not


    home yet?" Brendon''s voice sounded displeased over the phone line, "Where have you been?"


    "I went out for dinner with friends. I''ll be hometer," replied Ranita as Brendon grunted, "With


    who?"


    "You don''t know them..." said Ranita trailing off as Brendon interrupted her, "Are you seriously going


    on blind dates now? Don''t forget that technically speaking ¨C you''re married!"


    His tone turned cold as his mood worsened, "Do you even realize what kind of situation this puts us


    both into?"


    Lowering her voice, Ranita replied, "We just had dinner together, it wasn''t anything dirty like what


    your mind seems to be thinking right now. I''m currently at my Professor''s house, I''ll talk more when I


    get home."


    After hanging up, Ranita seemed distracted. Vincent noticed this immediately so he bid farewell


    along with Professor. They walked down campus road.


    Mia asked some questions excitedly, and Vincent politely answered, but his attitude remained


    indifferent, and kept looking at Ranita instead.


    "Your face doesn''t look too good. Do you need me to take you home?" Vincent asked.


    Ranita shook her head and said, "Thank you, but I can go home by myself. You guys be safe."


    She stood at the door for a moment.


    Sometimes she found it funny that this was supposed to be her home, yet it felt like Brendon''s


    territory.


    She opened the door and went in.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Only one light was on in the apartment; it was quiet as could be.


    In the study, there was the sound of someone typing on aputer. Ranita washed her hands and


    made him a cup of coffee.


    "Here," she ced it on his desk. Brendon looked up and motioned for her toe over.


    Ranita didn''t move; she pursed her lips and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Brendon took off his headphones and strode over with long legs until he pushed both of her hands


    behind the door. He leaned down close to her ear with hot breaths tickling against it as if confirming


    something before asking lowly, "Did you really go on a blind date?"


    "No, I just had dinner."


    Being so close made Ranita''s heart race wildly up and down while sweat broke out all over her


    back.

 Chapter 223 IM So Jealous Of You

    Chapter 223 I''M So Jealous Of You


    Chapter 223 I''m So Jealous of You


    "Pathetic!" Ranita silently cursed herself.


    "Next time, if you dare to do it again, I''ll show you who''s boss!" he threatened.


    "Brendon, don''t be unreasonable! I didn''t do anything..." Ranita was cut off as Brendon brushed his


    lips against her ear and gave her a peck on the cheek.


    Ranita shuddered. "Brendon, please don''t."


    Every time he got close to her like this, it only resulted in a more heartbroken and sad oue.


    Ranita was scared.


    Brendon''s kisses moved down to her lips. Her heart raced as she tilted back her slender neck and


    almost lost her breath.


    Brendon slowly kissed her while carrying her into the bathroom where hot water was already


    running.


    As the water sshed around them, Ranita regained someposure. She pushed Brendon away


    and escaped saying "I''ll get your clothes for you."


    Her thoughts were jumbled when suddenly Mia called on the phone. She hesitated before


    answering, "What''s up?"


    "Ranita, want to grab a drink? After leaving Professor''s house today, I''ve been thinking about things


    and there are some things that I still want to say face-to-face with you," Mia said over the phone.


    Ranita didn''t really want to see Mia but just then Brendon spoke from inside the bathroom, "Ranita,


    can you grab me a towel too?"


    After pausing for a few seconds, she told Mia, "Where should we meet? I''lle over soon."


    She left Brendon''s clothes and towel at the door before knocking gently, "Brendon, something came


    up so I have to go out for a bit. Get some rest early tonight."


    "What?" Brendon wiped his face dry with his hands but only saw Ranita walking away from him


    through the open doorframe.


    "Ranita!"


    What time is it now? Is this woman going out every day when he isn''t home?


    Brendon quickly wiped his hair, hastily put on some clothes, and chased after her. He reached the


    parking lot only to find no sign of the car.


    "Beep beep beep!"


    He called her, and she answered.


    "Ranita, where are you going?"


    Brendon''s voice shouted through the phone. Ranita felt a tingling sensation at her fingertips, pursed


    her lips, and said, "I''m just chatting with a friend. No need to worry."


    "Hang up."


    Ranita ignored Brendon, and she didn''t answer the several calls that followed. Perhaps angered by


    her attitude, Brendon finally stopped calling.


    C-club seemed like an okay ce for drinks; location wasn''t bad either plus there were quite many


    customers present already.


    When Ranita arrived, Mia was already there. There were two empty Long Ind Iced Tea sses in


    front of her. This cocktail had a strong after-effect, and Mia was clearly a little drunk.


    "Don''t drink so much," Ranita said. She couldn''t drink alcohol and ordered a juice instead. Mia


    leaned on the table and looked at Ranita, suddenlyughing mockingly.


    "Ranita, do you look down on me?" she asked.


    "No," replied Ranita calmly as she looked at Mia.


    She did have some resentment towards Mia but what had happened had already happened. She


    couldn''t do anything about it even if she hated her more.


    "No? Look at you... you''re always like this... pretty, smart... even though we''re all about the same


    level, you always manage to be one step ahead of us. Your life is like God''s favorite daughter''s..."


    said Mia with envy in her voice.


    "I''m older than you are. While I''m groveling before my boss outside, you managed to get an


    investment to start your own studio and even signed a cooperation agreement with Stuart''s Corp!


    Not only that but the professor is also trying his best to introduce you into the Department of


    Trantion and Interpretation."


    Miaughed until tears started streaming down her face from between her fingers; they were bitter


    tears indeed!


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Ranita, I really envy you so much! But... I am also in so much pain..."

 Chapter 224 Hostage

    Chapter 224 Hostage


    Chapter 224 Hostage


    Mia''s crying was drowned out by the music in the bar.


    No one paid attention to the person sitting in the corner booth.


    Ranita wasn''t feeling any better, she took a tissue out of her bag and handed it to Mia. "Mia,


    nobody''s life is perfect. You said you envy me, but you should know how hard I''ve worked and how


    much effort I''ve put into everything."


    Mia looked up at Ranita.


    Ranita worked harder than anyone else! When she was exhausted and couldn''t keep her eyes


    open, Ranita was still working overtime. While Mia ate her meals, Ranita read books!


    Ranita was beautiful, talented withnguages and worked hard. That was why Mia felt even more


    envious! She wanted to surpass her but found herself always being pulled along instead.


    "Ranita... I''m sorry..." Mia didn''t regret what she had done but facing Ranita now made her feel an


    endless sense of remorse.


    "I didn''t mean it... you know about my family situation... I never wanted to hurt you... I''m jealous of


    you but also grateful!" Tears streamed down Mia''s face as she cried uncontrobly.


    They had been friends for so many years now.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    It hurt Ranita deeply inside too.


    But forgiveness wasn''t something that came easily for her.


    "Mia, stop crying. Everyone is looking over here." Ranita handed a tissue over to Mia. "The studio is


    gone now. There''s no need to bring up old events again."


    "Can you forgive me?" asked Mia.


    Ranita remained silent before shaking her head slowly, "Sorry. I can''t be that magnanimous. The


    studio held too much meaning for me yet ended so tragically."


    Although not spoken aloud, Ranita couldn''t bear letting go like this either.


    "Mia, you should go home early tonight. Rest well. Your family needs you. You can''t keep living like


    this forever."


    "Last time when you got drunk, I sent you back safely. This time if it happens again, I won''t be there


    anymore."


    Mia stared nkly at Ranita,"You know about my family?"


    "A little bit," replied Ranita, but talking about it right now wasn''t going to change anything.


    Ranita clutched onto her purse tightly, "I agreed today not because I have a saintly heart or because


    I want to forgive your actions. It''s just that I want to remind you, to live well for your loved ones."


    "And from now on , don''t contact me anymore."


    Ranita left without drinking any juice.


    She paid what needed paying, and walked away from their table silently.


    After leaving the parking lot of C-club, it took a few minutes to walk. Halfway there, suddenly a car


    stopped on the side of the road and two big men with hats and masks got out. They looked at her


    and immediately approached her, "Are you Ranita Bowman?"


    "Sorry, you''ve got the wrong person." Ranita tried to avoid them, but her heart was racing as it was


    clear that these two wereing for her.


    "Girl! We''re looking for you! Come with us, someone wants to see you!" The big man approached


    Ranita, his hand shaking a small knife that reflected the light.


    Ranita looked around.


    The man had a knife in their hand, and she didn''t dare to make any sudden movements.


    "Who wants to see me?" Ranita wanted to stall for time so that a kind passerby could help her call


    the police, but the big man didn''t answer. "Are you going or not?"


    Ranita was pushed onto the car.


    The knife was pressed against her neck.


    Ranita swallowed nervously, her head buzzing and feeling dizzy. She forced herself to calm down


    and said, "Gentlemen, I don''t know where you''re taking me. We live in a society governed by the


    rule ofw now. Breaking thew means going to jail. Why risk it? How about this instead: I''ll give


    you both some money for your trouble if you let me go?"

 Chapter 225 Not Returning Home At Midnight

    Chapter 225 Not Returning Home At Midnight


    Chapter 225 Not Returning Home at Midnight


    "Do you want to give us money? How much?" One of the big guys suddenly became interested, but


    he didn''t have time to ask further before being interrupted by the driver in front, "What nonsense are


    you two thinking about!"


    "This person is what the boss wants. Do you dare to make any moves? Don''t you want to live


    anymore?"


    Ranita''s eyes were blindfolded, her hands and feet bound, and she received a threatening remark,


    "Girl, don''t entertain any wicked thoughts. We''re just taking you to meet someone; we won''t harm


    you!"


    He must be kidding!


    Ranita tried to move her hands and feet, but found that she couldn''t move at all.


    At this moment, Ranita deeply regretted not answering Brendon''s call and getting angry. What if


    Brendon thought she was upset and didn''te home or look for her?


    Just then, her purse was taken by someone. After a quick search, the big man sneered, "There''s


    only one card and 300 bucks in your bag. How dare you say you''ll give us money to let you go?"


    Ranita remained silent.


    There were tens of millions of dors in that card!


    "And this bag, it doesn''t look valuable at all! There''s not even a brand logo on it, probably worth only


    a few tens of dors!"


    The big man paused and sneered, "This woman is only good for her face. I don''t know why the boss


    wants us to bring her over!"


    "Why do you care so much? Just get the person there! Stop talking so much!"


    The car was bumping all the way, and Ranita''s nerves were highly tense, so much so that her lower


    abdomen began to feel ufortable.


    Fortunately, it was still within a controble range.


    Ranita was desperately trying to rx herself and thinking about how to cope.


    Until the car came to a stop.


    She heard the sound of the iron gate opening, and then her body was pulled off the car. Ranita


    stepped onto the uneven muddy ground, almost tripping several times.


    As her body lost its weight, Ranita was forcefully thrown out, seemingly colliding with the wall,


    leaving half of her body numb.


    "Bang!"


    The door closed.


    Where was she? And who tied her up here?


    Ranita was extremely scared, and now all she could think of was praying that Brendon would find


    out she was missing.


    In Kurima.


    Brendon had been sitting on the sofa waiting for Ranita.


    The clock hands on the wall slowly slid towards twelve, but Ranita was still nowhere to be seen!


    Brendon rubbed his face, his temples throbbing with anger.


    What time was it, and she was still not back home! When she returned, he''ll definitely spank her


    little bottom!


    Ring, ring, ring!


    Just then, the phone rang.


    "Ranita..."


    "Brendon! It''s me! Shannon!" Shannon''s voice came through, sounding upset. Brendon realized that


    the caller wasn''t Ranita and furrowed his brow, asking coldly, "What''s wrong?"


    "I... I can''t sleep. Are you noting back tonight, Brendon?"


    "I have some things to take care of. You should get some rest." Brendon was impatient now; he


    didn''t want to tie up the phone line and miss a call from Ranita.


    But Shannon didn''t want to hang up; her voice was whiny, "Brendon, your voice doesn''t sound


    good. Is something wrong? Did I do something to upset you? What did I do wrong?"


    He hadn''t minded it before but hearing her whiny voice now made him extremely irritable.


    "Shannon, I really have things to take care of." Brendon quickly hung up the phone and couldn''t


    resist calling Ranita again but still couldn''t get through.


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


    Brendon grabbed his keys and drove out.


    "Open up!" Brendon knocked on Dn''s door when he arrived at Dn''s house and grabbed him by


    the cor when Dn stumbled out with sleepy eyes, "Dn, is Ranita here with you?"

 Chapter 226 Fighting

    Chapter 226 Fighting


    Chapter 226 Fighting


    Dn gritted his teeth and forcefully shook off Brendon''s hand. "It''s ridiculous that you don''t even


    know where your own wife is," he sneered.


    To Dn, Brendon was utterly detestable.


    "Ranita isn''t with me, and if she avoided you, it means she doesn''t want to see you!" Dn pushed


    him against the wall with all his might, making a loud thud.


    "Dn! I''m not joking with you!"


    In a split second, the two men were locked in a physical struggle. Dn gritted his teeth and threw a


    punch at Brendon with his other hand.


    Brendon dodged it but got hit on the shoulder instead.


    "I''m not joking with you either! Ranita isn''t with me!" Dn had long held a grudge against Brendon,


    and finding the opportunity with Ranita absent, of course, led to a direct confrontation!


    Brendon was also simmering with anger.


    As soon as they started, it was like a spark falling into a haystack, and it immediately ignited with a


    loud crackle.


    Finally, Brendon pressed his fist against Dn''s neck and looked at him murderously, "Dn, I''ll ask


    again - is Ranita here or not?!"


    Dn''s eyes turned red as he became equally furious, "Are you insane?! If Ranita is here, would I


    open the door for you?!"


    Brendon looked uncertain, "Then do you know where she went? She said she was going to see her


    friends but hasn''te back yet."


    Ranita hadn''t returned home all night?


    Suddenly worried about her whereabouts too now, Dn couldn''t show any weakness in front of


    Brenden so he coldly sneered, "Are you actually worried about her? I thought all your attention only


    goes towards Shannon! Do you even care whether or not Ranita is home when taking care of


    Shannon?! You don''t know anything yet dare act crazy over here?"


    Each word from Dn felt like huge boulders crashing down on top of Brenden''s heart.


    Feeling defeated by these words, Brenden let go of Dn and sat dejectedly on the ground.


    "Sorry... I lost my temper earlier," said Brendan softly, his eyes dark while regainingposure


    once more, "I''m just worried about her."


    Dn pursed his lips and picked up his phone to call Ranita. The phone rang only briefly before


    shutting offpletely.


    "She turned off her phone," muttered Dn irritably.


    "Did she mention anything about seeing friends?"


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon shook his head. "Didn''t say anything."


    Dn shot him a "what''s the use of you" look, leaving Brendon feeling miserable. He sadly realized


    that he didn''t seem to matter much in Ranita''s heart.


    "Contact separately, find her."


    Dn snorted coldly. "Fine."


    For Ranita''s sake, Dn endured not kicking Brendon out.


    Brendon first called Steve, but his assistant answered, saying Steve was in the middle of an


    emergency surgery.


    Chris answered the phone, mentioning he hadn''t seen Ranita.


    Upon learning that Ranita hadn''t returned home since going out in the evening, Chris immediately


    offered to help find her.


    Brendon and Dn made calls while driving to look for people.


    At daybreak, Chris called Brendon to say they found Ranita''s car in the C-club parking lot.


    Brendon rushed over there right away.


    He met Chris at the door. "Brendon, my cousin''s friend owns this club. Let''s go check the


    surveince footage."


    "Ranita was indeed at C-club bar for a while but left within half an hour. She went into a blind spot


    on camera near the entrance before disappearing from viewpletely."


    In such a short distance where did she go?


    "Caleb! Get everyone together! We need to turn Kurima upside down until we find her!" After


    watching surveince footage with cold eyes and furrowed brows, Brendon pushed open the door of


    the monitoring room while making phone calls.

 Chapter 227 Bad Premonition

    Chapter 227 Bad Premonition


    Chapter 227 Bad Premonition


    "Brendon!"


    Chris hurriedly caught up from behind, "Let''s keep looking. It might not be anything serious."


    Brendon ran his fingers through his hair, the sharp anxiety almost shattering his heart. "Ranita


    wouldn''t just turn off her phone and ignore even her friends'' calls."


    "Her phone might be dead. Brendon... try not to worry too much. It hasn''t been twenty-four hours


    sincest night; let''s keep searching."


    "She''ll be fine."


    Chris''fort had little effect.


    Thest time Ranita suddenly went to Moon Mountain Resort, he was annoyed but not as worried


    as he was now. He had a bad feeling about this.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Someone was looking for Ranita in Kurima.


    Ranita didn''t know how long she had been sitting there when she finally couldn''t resist the


    exhaustion anymore and dozed off. She was tired, but more than that, she was thirsty!


    "Bang!" After who knew how long it had been, the door opened.


    Ranita immediately woke up and huddled into the corner of the wall in fear. She couldn''t see


    anything in the darkness which made everything seem scarier; even the sound of footsteps seemed


    heavier than usual.


    "Girl!"


    "Ahh!" Ranita screamed as she realized her foot was caught. Terrified, she immediately began to


    struggle. However, her hands were bound, and after a few attempts, her feet were also restrained.


    "Alright, stop yelling and moving around. I''ll untie your hands, and you better eat. Then we can hit


    the road."


    This burly man was the one who asked her how much money she could offer yesterday.


    After Ranita''s eyes adjusted to the light, she revealed a hint of pleading, "Mister, may I ask why


    you''ve targeted me? Can''t we discuss whatever matter you have in a civilized manner?"


    "Heh! Girl, don''t try to use that trick on me," the big man shook his head. "If you want to threaten me


    by saying things like calling police or breakingws, then I won''t talk to you anymore. However,


    since your attitude is good towards us then I''ll chat with you a bit."


    "Our boss wants to take you away but I don''t know any specifics! Don''t scream or move around


    recklessly though because I won''t hurt you."


    Although she didn''t get any useful information from him, at least she knew that her personal safety


    could be guaranteed.


    She must live on...


    Otherwise there would be nothing left at all...


    "Thank you so much sir! You''re really kind-hearted!" Despite being forced into submission, Ranita


    still managed a fake smile while thanking this big man politely.


    "Hey, girl, you have such a pretty face!" The big man looked at her with admiration, but then said,


    "Come on and eat."


    On the ground was a bowl with only two buns inside that didn''t look very appetizing. Next to it was a


    bottle of mineral water.


    Ranita didn''t move.


    "Don''t worry, I didn''t poison it," the big man said again.


    She wasn''t worried about being poisoned. She was afraid there might be some kind of drug in the


    food that would make her dizzy and disoriented so she wouldn''t know where she was being taken.


    Ranita picked up the bottle of mineral water first and twisted off the cap. It hadn''t been opened


    before so she drank several sips before stopping.


    "This mister here, I don''t have much appetite so I won''t eat these buns!"


    The big man didn''t force her when he heard this. "Suit yourself; you''re the one who''s going hungry."


    Just then another voice came from outside, "Brett! Are we ready to go?"


    The big man called Brett turned his head back, "Yes!"


    Ranita''s hands were tied again as they pushed her into a van that rocked back and forth as they


    drove away without any idea where they were going.


    After spending one night like this, Ranita wondered if Brendon had found out what happened to her


    or if he was enjoying Shannon''spany instead.

 Chapter 228 Two Days And Two Nights

    Chapter 228 Two Days And Two Nights


    Chapter 228 Two Days and Two Nights


    The sun and moon revolved.


    The car drove for a day and night before stopping.


    These people were smart, taking breaks every three to four hours to eat and rest, bringing Ranita


    some food. But to prevent her from constantly going to the bathroom, they strictly controlled her


    water intake.


    Ranita''s lips had be dry and painful.


    After stopping for the night, they switched to a high chassis off-road vehicle that plunged into the


    mountains.


    Ranita grew up in Stnd but had stayed in Kurima. She volunteered during college but only


    around Kurima; she had never seen so many mountains before.


    Along the winding mountain road, the car was like a small ck dot amidst it all. The road was


    rough and bumpy; Ranita felt sick several times along the way.


    It was dark again.


    Finally stopping, when they pulled Ranita out of the car, she fainted without catching her breath first.


    Two days and nights passed.


    Ranita seemed as if she evaporated from this world.


    Brendon had already called the police; Mia was found too. She wasst seen with Ranita so she


    became a prime suspect.


    "Mr. Stuart, it really wasn''t me! I don''t know where Ranita went either! And I''m just as worried about


    her!" Mia cried while covering her face.


    Brendon hadn''t rested well for two days straight; his temples throbbed painfully while he listened to


    Mia''s crying voice which made him even more irritable.


    "Mia, are you really clueless?"


    "I truly have no idea!" Mia continued crying.


    Just then Shannon knocked on their door carrying a thermos box of food. "Brendon, I brought you


    some food."


    "Shannon, I''m busy right now, you can go back." Brendon''s mind was filled with thoughts of Ranita


    yet Shannon insisted oning over herself, she poured him soup then pouted, "Brendon, you


    haven''t been resting properly these past few days. Your family is very worried about you."


    "This is soup that I personally made. Would you like some?" After pausing briefly, Shannon said


    softly, "If you keep going like this, your health will suffer. I''ll be very worried too."


    Shannon saw Mia yesterday, and now seeing her again made her ufortable, "Miss Griffiths is


    one friend of Ranita''s, right? I heard they used to work together at a studio. If Miss Griffiths knew


    anything, she would definitely say something. Brendon, don''t make things difficult for Miss Griffiths."


    "I see that Miss Griffiths is upset. You should let her go home and rest."


    Brendon''s gaze remained fixed on Mia, and seeing her tears, he knew she was genuine. "Miss


    Griffiths, you can go home now," he said.


    Mia felt like she had been granted a reprieve and quickly gathered her things before leaving.


    As soon as she was gone, Brendon sent a message to Caleb asking him to have someone follow


    Mia and check out her background.


    "Shannon, put your things down. You can go home too," Brendon lowered his voice. "Go."


    Shannon bit her lip, her voice sounding intive, "Brendon... Are you trying to drive me away? I''m


    so worried about you. While you''re tirelessly searching for Ranita, constantly preupied with her,


    what about me? You''re sleepless and restless. Seeing you like this, my heart feels like it''s breaking


    too."


    "Just think about what''s best for me. Can you please go home today?"


    Ranita had disappeared, and Shannon was almost ready to celebrate if it meant that nothing would


    stand in the way of being with Brendon.


    But Brendon was acting like a madman trying to find Ranita.


    Shannon sniffled back tears as she spoke in a choked voice. "Ranita is an adult; if someone took


    her off the street surely someone would have seen something by now? Maybe she wanted to


    disappear on purpose!"


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    This statement cut deep into Shannon''s heart.

 Chapter 229 DonT Lie

    Chapter 229 Don''T Lie


    Chapter 229 Don''t Lie


    Exactly! Maybe Ranita wanted to hide herself.


    Ranita''s divorce cooling-off period with Brendon was about to end in a month. Could she be trying


    to escape during this time?


    Thinking about this possibility, Shannon harbored intense resentment towards Ranita.


    "Brendon, why don''t you give Ranita some time? Maybe she just needs to clear her head and will


    come back?" Shannon suggested.


    Brendon felt uneasy. He replied coldly, "Shannon, Ranita wouldn''t do something so foolish!


    Something must have happened, and I need to find her."


    "She is still my wife."


    "Shannon, go home!" Brendon paused before adding, "Don''t you have a concert tomorrow? You


    should be preparing for that!"


    Shannon gritted her teeth but spoke in a sweet voice. "Brendon, I''m more worried about you than


    anything else! You''ve been so preupied with Ranita that I can''t focus on the concert either! Will


    youe tomorrow and support me?"


    "Brendon... pleasee? Amiya Auntie and Holly will be there too. It would mean everything if you


    coulde and encourage me."


    "Let''s talk about it tomorrow. Go home now!" Brendon didn''t say whether he would attend or not; he


    just wanted Shannon gone as soon as possible.


    "Okay." Shannon left the office feeling resentful.


    When she arrived at Bouldend Mansion where Amiya and Holly were waiting for her return, they


    asked if Brenden wasing back today?


    "I''m sorry Auntie; it''s my fault that he isn''ting back," said Shannon with tears in her eyes.


    Amiya looked displeased while Holly stood up angrily saying, "What''s wrong with Brenden? He has


    been making such a fuss over Ranita these past few days; isn''t it too much?"


    "Why does he care so much when soon enough Ranita won''t even be part of our family anymore?"


    Holly continued speaking out loud without thinking about how it might affect others'' feelings.


    Amiya red at Holly before saying sternly, "Don''t speak nonsense in front of Shannon."


    "Shannon, Holly doesn''t think before she speaks. Don''t mind her!" Amiya said slowly, continuing,


    "Shannon, you know that Brendon is a very responsible man. Ranita is still legally his wife after all


    and his actions are understandable."


    "You should be able to understand that," she added.


    Shannon was seething with anger inside but spoke softly nheless. "Of course I understand


    Brendon! And I''m also worried about Ranita. She''s a young and beautiful woman and if she gets


    kidnapped by some bad people, who knows what kind of trouble she''ll face?"


    "It''s best to find her as soon as possible," Shannon continued.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Holly widened her eyes at Shannon''s words. "What good does it do for you to be so kind-hearted?


    Ranita won''t appreciate it!" Holly thought to herself: It would be better if Ranita never came back!


    Then we wouldn''t have to deal with her anymore!


    "All right, let''s stop talking about Ranita here," Amiya said calmly while giving Holly a quick nce.


    "Since Brendon isn''ting back yet, let''s start eating first."


    In the office, Brendon received the information Caleb had sent him and his expression turned cold.


    He immediately called Mia back in again and looked down at her with icy eyes, "Mia, do you really


    not know where Ranita is?"


    "Don''t lie to me!" He ced the investigation materials in front of Mia.

 Chapter 230 Hatred

    Chapter 230 Hatred


    Chapter 230 Hatred


    Mia curled up in fear.


    Brendon, with hismanding presence, exuded an intimidating aura. With just one icy nce


    from him, it was as if she had fallen into a frozen cave and her entire body was immediately


    enveloped in coldness, causing her to shiver uncontrobly.


    "Mr. Stuart, I don''t know what you''re talking about!" Mia''s voice trembled uncontrobly, betraying


    her nervousness.


    "Don''t know? The hospital where your father is being treated is owned by Pixystems."


    Mentioning her sick father instantly shattered any hope Mia had left. She slumped onto the ground


    like a pile of mud and looked up at Brendon.


    "Mr. Stuart, my family is innocent. Please don''t hurt them."


    Taking a deep breath, she continued, "I never intended to harm Ranita but someone approached


    me and offered me money to invite her out for drinks."


    Holly had been pressuring Mia to do something but Ranita ignored herpletely so Holly gave up


    on that n altogether.


    She sold the studio and gave all the money to her family. However, her mother immediately used


    the funds to buy houses for her two younger brothers and supported her natal family. Her father


    then asked her for money to cover the recovery expenses for his hand injury.


    The requested amount was a staggering five hundred thousand.


    Mia didn''t have a money tree; where could she get such a sum?


    "They said they won''t harm her, just want to discuss a project with her. But Ranita kept dodging,


    iming she was busy," Mia lied. In reality, those people seemed troublesome, and it was highly


    unlikely they just wanted to chat about a project without causing harm to Ranita.


    However, if Mia admitted this in front of Brendon, she would be left with no way out.


    "I never intended to harm her. I arranged to meet them at a bar, but they never showed up. I had


    two drinks too many, and in the end, Ranita left on her own."


    ording to the surveince footage, that was indeed the case.


    Brendon had suspicions butcked evidence.


    "Mr. Stuart, this is the person''s phone number at that time. I really don''t know anything beyond that!"


    "Mia! Why didn''t you say anything yesterday when we were at the police station?"


    Mia turned on the waterworks like an actress who''d been practicing all day long, "Mr. Stuart! I''m


    afraid of getting into trouble! If something really happened with Ranita then it''ll be my fault... my life


    will be ruined forever..."


    "I''ll go down thereter today and exin everything."


    Brendon received the phone and immediately handed it over to the police station. The police quickly


    identified the owner of the phone, but it turned out to be a dead end.


    The owner was an old man in his seventies who imed that someone had borrowed his phone


    and gave him a hundred dors for it. He was also hard of hearing, makingmunication difficult.


    With no leads, Ranita was dragged into a shabby cement room and locked up. The room was small


    with only a bed and table, and there was a small window with a steep slope outside that would


    mean certain death if she jumped.


    The only way out was through the front door.


    However, Ranita couldn''t escape as her hands were untied, her eyes weren''t blindfolded but there


    was an iron chain on her right foot.


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    She heard faint noises outside before people''s voices along with car sounds faded away. But Ranita


    didn''t let down her guard; she waited anxiously for help but no one came!


    Days passed by without any sign of rescue while day turned into night again and again.


    An elderly woman in her fifties pushed a wheelchair over. Seated in the wheelchair was a gaunt,


    despondent-looking man with sunken eyes. Hunched over, as soon as he saw Ranita, intense


    hatred red up in his eyes.


    "You are... Turner?"

 Chapter 231 Torment

    Chapter 231 Torment


    Chapter 231 Torment


    Ranita''s heart sank to the bottom of the valley.


    "Ranita... you remember me? That''s great!" Turner''s eyes were bloodshot as he got out of his


    wheelchair, his empty sleeves pping.


    Turner also seemed to have trouble with his legs, walking with a limp.


    Ranita stepped back, but her ankle chain reached its limit. She pulled hard a few times, but it was


    useless except for causing pain in her ankles.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Hehe!" Turner smirked sinisterly. "Ranita, you didn''t expect this day woulde, did you?"


    He approached step by step and stepped on the iron chain. His twisted face was full of venting


    pleasure, "Being tied up like a dog by me and slowly tortured!"


    "Turner, you''re crazy! Do you know what you''re doing?" Ranita had rested for two days but barely


    ate or drank water. Her throat was dry and her once fair face looked haggard.


    But she had good bones and superior features; even in distress she still retained some beauty.


    Fire shed in Turner''s eyes.


    "I know exactly what I''m doing! Look at me - my hands are disabled and my legs aren''t good either.


    I''ll be useless from now on unless I have someone like you to take care of me! You used to be


    Brendon''s wife; now stay here forever serving me for the rest of your life while helping this cripple


    bear children."


    "Are you happy about that Ranita?"


    As he spoke, Turnerughed crazily, "If it weren''t for you how could I have fallen into such misery!?


    You owe me so just pay it back with your remaining years!"


    Was this guy really insane? Did he n on imprisoning her forever?


    "Turner let go of me! I won''t mention anything about what happened here if Brendones looking


    for me. Otherwise, your legs will not be safe," said Ranita whose throat felt tight while her ankle


    chains chafed against her skin causing redness which hurt when moved around too much.


    "You''ve been at Bouldend Mansion for so many years; you should understand Brendon''s


    character better than I do."


    Turner smirked, his contorted face looking even more terrifying. "Are you threatening me? Well, it


    depends on whether you hold any significance in Brendon''s eyes."


    "You''ve been missing for so many days. Are you sure he''s looking for you? Maybe he''s happy! The


    troublesome ex-wife has finally disappeared, and Miss Murphy is now even more justified, isn''t


    she?"


    Turner seemed oblivious to how repulsive his face was, continuously getting closer to Ranita.


    Ranita felt nauseous, as if she might throw up.


    "Don''t believe me?" Turnerughed with a raspy sound from his throat and shouted outside, "Bring


    the phone in for me!"


    The elderly woman outside lowered her head and handed the phone over, only to be harshly


    scolded by Turner, "Can''t you see? Give it to this bitch!"


    The old woman trembled and passed the phone to Ranita.


    Ranita took it and instantly felt a wave of darkness wash over her eyes. She bit her lip as if being


    cut by a knife, while Turner continuedughing mockingly at her, "See that? Brendon doesn''t have


    time for you! He''s busy with his beloved ying music together happily as a family! As for you..."


    "You''ll spend your life in this godforsaken mountain valley and end up nothing but mud!"


    "Ranita, you''ll never be able to get rid of me in this lifetime!"


    Turnerughed heartily, clearly feeling very pleased with himself.


    Meanwhile, Ranita held onto the phone tightly and tried hard to keep calm. When Turner wasn''t


    paying attention, she quickly opened the keypad and made a call for help.

 Chapter 232 Heart Broken Into Sand

    Chapter 232 Heart Broken Into Sand


    Chapter 232 Heart Broken into Sand


    Reporting to the police was not realistic. Ranita couldn''t pinpoint her location, and if she did report it,


    Turner would likely move her somewhere else.


    So who should she call?


    In a split second, Ranita sadly realized that the clearest phone number in her mind belonged to


    Brendon!


    But he...


    Ring ring ring!


    "You bitch! What are you doing!" Turner noticed something was wrong and immediately yelled at her


    while rushing over. "Who are you calling?!"


    Although locked up, Ranita''s body was more agile than Turner''s. She dodged a few times before


    finally dialing the number.


    "Come help me quickly!" Turner shouted at the old woman who hurried over and tried to take the


    phone from Ranita''s hand.


    The old woman looked thin but had great strength. She grabbed Ranita''s wrist, leaving several red


    marks on it.


    "Girl, give me your phone quickly or you''ll be in trouble!" As soon as she finished speaking, the old


    woman pushed Ranita hard onto the ground. The phone flew out of her hand and hit the ground


    with a tter before going ck!


    Ranita hadn''t eaten much foodtely and felt weak all over as shey on the ground unable to get


    up.


    Turner kicked her again and spat, "Ranita, you bitch! Who did you call? Did you report us?"


    "Beatrice, check it out!" Turner roared at Beatrice angrily.


    Beatrice tapped on the broken phone timidly, "It seems like it''s broken! Don''t worry about anything


    happening because this phone is smashed."


    "They won''t find us here for sure."


    They didn''t even exchange any words during that short time so nothing should have happened.


    Turner kicked Ranita again furiously, "If I catch you trying anything funny again I''ll make sure life is


    worse than death for you! And as punishment today and tomorrow we''ll starve your stomachs


    empty."


    The door mmed shut heavily.


    Ranita struggled onto bed with difficulty while gasping for air with every breath.


    Her body hurt badly but her heart hurt even more.


    Did Brendon not care if she disappearedpletely? Or was he just like what Turner said - happy


    that she was gone?


    All of these days of being strong seemed to shatter into sand at this moment...


    Shannon''s concert ended; media outlets were interviewing Shannon now. Her team had done well


    preparing everything so interviews went smoothly with good atmosphere around them.


    "Brendon, Shannon did really well at today''s concert. These are my congrattions gifts for her.


    You can give them to herter, I''m a bit tired and need to go rest now," Amiya handed him a velvet


    box and a bouquet of flowers.


    Brendon frowned as he took them and replied with a curt "okay."


    After the media had left, Brendon gave the gifts to Shannon who immediately smiled sweetly at him.


    "Thank you so much, Brendon! You''re so kind to me!"


    "This is from my mom. If you want to thank someone, thank her," Brendon said coldly causing


    Shannon''s eyes to droop in disappointment.


    "Brendon..." Holly pouted trying to diffuse the situation. "You''re such a typical guy! Don''t be such a


    buzzkill! Let''s take some pictures since Shannon looks so pretty today!"


    Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Holly snapped some photos while Cindy also took advantage of the opportunity and took some


    pictures herself.


    Soon enough, edited photos were circting on the inte with only Shannon in them but she was


    clearly looking towards someone else with an alluring gaze that left people wondering.


    Brendon remained offline throughout it all with an icy expression on his face.


    "Brendon, are you worried about Ranita? I''m sorry... I shouldn''t have asked you here if it was going


    to waste your time," Shannon triedforting him by taking hold of his arm while giving him


    seductive nces full of allure.

 Chapter 233 Illusion

    Chapter 233 Illusion


    Chapter 233 Illusion


    Shannon looked ethereal in her dress today, with a small V-neck design at the heart that added a


    hint of desire to her already alluring presence.


    Holly disagreed, "Shannon, you''re just too kind. Why bother with Ranita? And you too, Brendon.


    She''s got nothing to do with us anymore. Why are you even looking for her?"


    "I just think she shoulde out of hiding! Her divorce date ising up soon and if she doesn''t


    show up, it''ll be postponed again!"


    Holly had strong negative feelings towards Ranita.


    Shannon smiled at Holly, "Holly, don''t say that! But, what is Ranita thinking? Even if she really wants


    to leave, she should at least let us know, right? Disappearing like this all of a sudden is making


    everyone worried."


    "I''m really worried too," Shannon said softly but every word seemed to weigh heavily on Brendon''s


    heart.


    Brendon tried to contain his anger and said firmly, "Shannon, I have things I need to attend to right


    now. You and Holly should head back first."


    "What?! But we have the celebration partyter! If you don''te, Shannon will be so


    disappointed!" Holly protested. "And seriously though... Ranita has some nerve causing all this


    trouble!"


    Quickly trying to smooth things over, Shannon spoke up, "Brendon, please don''t me Holly. She


    only said those things because she was afraid I''d be upset. It''s normal for you to worry about Ranita


    since she is a woman who is also beautiful - it would be terrible if something bad happened while


    we were searching for her."


    "Brendon, go ahead and take care of your business. When we find Ranita, we can celebrate


    together then," Shannon continued kindly yet assertively.


    Brendon felt guilty as he whispered lowly, "I''m sorry Shannon... I really don''t feel like attending the


    celebration right now but I''ll make it up somehow."


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


    After Brendon left, Caleb gave Shannon a bracelet worth 300, 000 dors before leaving himself.


    She took several pictures and posted them online which made some people on her contact list quite


    jealous, including Allen.


    He was still in Qaesburg feeling frustrated about not being able to contact Ranita without risking


    anything else.


    It wasn''t until after Brenden left that he noticed an unanswered phone call waiting for him on his


    phone screen.


    It was a strange phone call,sting only two seconds before it hung up. The location showed that it


    came from Grafsa State! This was his private cellphone, and only intimate people knew about it!


    Brendon immediately thought of Ranita, but when he called back, the phone indicated that it was


    turned off.


    Turned off again?


    Just then, Caleb called.


    "Mr. Stuart, there''s a Mr. Goodman on the line. He says he''s Miss Bowman''swyer and has


    something important to discuss with you!" Caleb took a deep breath and spoke in a tense voice, "It''s


    about Miss Bowman."


    Was this rted to Ranita?


    Brendon sat up straight and started his car as he said, "Have him wait for me at the office. I''ll be


    there soon!"


    Brendon drove straight to Stuart''s Corp.


    He rushed into the office and asked anxiously, "Do you know where Ranita is?"


    ...


    Ranita hadn''t eaten all day; she hadn''t even had water.


    Shey in bed tossing and turning. Her stomach hurt like she was being stabbed repeatedly. She


    couldn''t fall asleep no matter what she did.


    The pain washed over her like waves crashing against rocks.


    Ranita felt groggy. She wondered if Brendon had really forgotten about her or if he wouldn''te


    looking for her anymore? But still, she thought of him.


    In the quiet night suddenly came chaotic footsteps. Through bleary eyesight, the door mmed


    open as familiar long legs walked towards her...


    Was this an illusion?

 Chapter 234 Fireflies

    Chapter 234 Fireflies


    Chapter 234 Fireflies


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    If it wasn''t a hallucination, how could she see Brendon here?


    The man was dressed in ck clothes and pants, tall and handsome, followed by a group of


    righteous police officers.


    Ranita''s joy surged like a tsunami.


    She widened her eyes, afraid that if she blinked, the person in front of her would disappear. She


    hoarsely shouted, "Brendon... is it you?"


    "It''s me! It''s me!" Brendon rushed over and hugged her tightly.


    The woman curled up on the crude bed seemed to be tortured to the point where only bones were


    left.


    Brendon''s eyes turned red as he suppressed his raging anger and whispered tofort her,


    "Ranita, don''t be afraid! We found you!"


    Could it really be Brendon?!


    Ranita instinctively grabbed his clothes with one hand. The grievances surged from her chest as


    she buried herself in Brendon''s arms and sobbed with gritted teeth.


    "Brendon... why did youe sote..."


    "I''m sorry! It was my fault! I made you suffer!" Brendon''s warm palm touched her face. He looked at


    Ranita''s pale face like paper and said softly, "Let''s go home!"


    Ranita murmured an "okay" while feeling dizzy.


    "Mr. Stuart, we have already controlled the people outside. Here is the key to unlock Miss Bowman,"


    said a female police officer who came over holding a small key.


    Only then did Brendon notice that there was an iron chain tied around Ranita''s right ankle.


    Unable to suppress his anger any longer, he rushed out immediately. Soon after came Turner''s


    heart-wrenching screams along with sounds of fighting between him and the police officers outside.


    But Ranita didn''t feel any sympathy for Turner whatsoever.


    If they hadn''t found her here today¡­ Ranita couldn''t imagine what would have happened next...


    Maybe as Turner had said before - she would''ve been locked up here like a dog for life; tortured by


    him; enved by him; living worse than death itself...


    Just thinking about it gave Ranita chills all over her body...


    "Ranita!" Just then Steve hurriedly walked over carrying his medical kit.


    Once again caught off guard, Ranita asked, "Dr. Pearson, you''re also here?"


    "I was worried about you so I came." After pausing for a moment, Steve covered Ranita''s body with


    a nket, "Don''t move, I''ll do some basic checks."


    After finishing checking, Ranita breathed out relief when Steve told her, "You''re just dehydrated, and


    malnourished but everything else seems fine. You''re very lucky."


    Turner''s arms were broken, and he couldn''t do anything to her. This was truly a blessing in disguise.


    Ranita mechanically cooperated with the police to make a simple record. Brendon wrapped her in a


    nket and carried her on his back because they couldn''t get the car close enough. It was pitch


    ck outside, and the people beside them were using shlights.


    Ranitay on Brendon''s back, her legs weak, her heart in turmoil, and her head confused.


    "Brendon... how did you find me?"


    "Your throat hurts. Don''t talk," Ranita hadn''t drunk much water, so she sounded hoarse and rough.


    She pursed her lips and made an affirmative sound.


    Brendon had broad shoulders that made Ranita feel safe even though they were swaying as he


    walked. Suddenly someone shouted out, "Fireflies!"


    Brendon stopped walking and turned his head to ask Ranita, "Did you see it?"


    Ranita saw it for the first time - so many fireflies! In the quiet darkness of night sky like stars falling


    from heaven - shing lights that were incredibly beautiful.


    She rubbed against Brendon''s shoulder with excitement, "It''s really beautiful." Because she was


    watching it with Brendon, it seemed more beautiful than any other time before this moment.

 Chapter 235 Carry Her On My Back

    Chapter 235 Carry Her On My Back


    Chapter 235 Carry Her on My Back


    "It''s really beautiful," Brendon said, admiring the gift of nature.


    Some lost fireflies flew around them, moving like a gxy. Although they were beautiful, they still


    had to hurry on their way.


    The car started and drove towards the bustling city on the rugged mountain road. Ranita was held


    in Brendon''s arms as he stroked her slender back andforted her in a low voice, "Don''t be


    afraid, everything is fine now. Just sleep for a while."


    Brendon''s embrace was warm andforting. Ranita greedily snuggled into his arms, feeling both


    sour and sweet inside.


    Did his willingness to travel all this way to save her mean that he still had some feelings for her?


    The bittersweet feeling mixed together made her heart ache.


    Feeling safe with Brendon, Ranita quickly fell asleep. Afternding in Kurima by ne, she went


    directly to Tranquil Valley Private Hospital.


    Brendon was not happy about Steve meddling in their affairs.


    "Steve, don''t you have anything better to do? Why don''t you go take care of other patients?"


    "Ranita is my patient too! Isn''t it normal for me to take care of her?" Steve pushed past Brendon and


    took Ranita into the examination room.


    After sleeping for a while at the hospital, Ranita looked much better.


    "Thank you Dr. Pearson."


    "Don''t mention it!" Steve paused before asking, "Are you really not going to tell him?"


    Ranita felt uneasy when she heard this question from Steve.


    "That night you went missing, Brendon had a fight with Dn. He thought Dn had hidden you!"


    Her heart raced as she realized what Steve wanted to say next.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Steve pushed up his sses, his charming eyes fixed on her. His voice took on a touch of


    mncholy, "Then, in the middle of the night, he searched for you."


    "In that case... he actually cares about you."


    Did Brendon care about her? She couldn''t tell if it was just spousal love or simply out of


    responsibility towards her.


    "I''ll think about it," she replied hesitantly.


    "Well then I won''t push you any further," said Steve gently before adding, "Here are your prenatal


    check-up reports. Your baby is doing great."


    "You should rest here at least two days," he advised kindly after showing Ranita that everything


    looked good with regards to the baby inside of her belly ording to the report from her check-up.


    Ranita''s mood lifted, as if she had suddenly eaten a piece of candy, and her heart was sweetened.


    As they left the inspection room, Brendon immediately ran over and asked, "How are you? Are you


    okay?"


    Steve stood with his hands behind his back and spoke in a cold tone. "Just rest for a few days


    ording to the doctor''s orders." He handed the examination report to Brendon and continued.


    "You''ve been running around these past few days. You need to rest too."


    Brendon nced at Steve from the corner of his eye. "I took care of her!"


    Pushing Ranita towards her hospital room, Brendon closed the door with a click and grumbled, "I


    told you to stay away from Steve! Why don''t you listen?"


    "Dr. Pearson is really nice!" Ranita leaned against the bed frame and tried to stand up but Brendon


    bent down quickly and lifted her onto the bed.


    "Rest for a while," he said softly before lying down next to her.


    "What are you doing?" The hospital bed wasn''t very big. There was still plenty of space even after


    Ranitay down on it because she was so slender. But adding Brendon made it feel cramped.


    "I''m tired," he muttered in a low voice as he turned on his side with an arm draped over her waist.


    Ranita looked up at him; she saw stubble on his cold jawline which softened her heartpletely.


    She raised an arm slowly then wrapped it around him tightly before snuggling into his embrace


    willingly.

 Chapter 236 A Little Bit Of Good

    Chapter 236 A Little Bit Of Good


    Chapter 236 A Little Bit of Good


    Brendon was right beside her, and she felt incredibly at ease, her eyes starting to well up with tears.


    "Why are you crying?" Brendon''s gentle voice came from above. "Are you still scared?"


    Ranita shook her head lightly and rested it on his chest.


    His heartbeat was close and strong.


    "I was scared before, but not anymore!" Ranita pursed her lips. After a pause, she asked, "Had you


    been looking for me all this time?"


    "Silly girl, who else would be looking for you if not me?" Brendon looked down at her and noticed


    that the flesh on her cheeks had disappeared. It hurt him like someone had ripped out his heart.


    "From now on, even if we have an argument or something happens between us, promise me that


    you''ll always answer my calls. Do you know how worried I''ve been about you?" His voice was


    especially tender as though a warm stream flowed into the depths of Ranita''s heart and healed all of


    the wounds inside instantly.


    This little bit of kindness made Ranita feelpletely devoted to him.


    "Mmm..." Ranita nodded. "I won''t make you worry again." After everything that happened recently,


    Ranita had thought a lot about how their baby needed aplete family. Maybe she should try


    harder to make things work between them.


    "Brendon... there''s something I want to ask..." As soon as the words left her mouth, Ranita started


    feeling uneasy in her heart. Would he consider staying married? Or would he insist on having the


    baby aborted? The thought of those possibilities made Ranita hesitate once again...


    "What is it?" Brendon saw that she wasn''t speaking up so he pinched gently at her chin with his


    hand. "What''s troubling you so much? You seem hesitant."


    Ranita closed her eyes and took a deep breath before continuing, "If... if I were ..."


    "Ring ring!" Brendon''s phone rang suddenly interrupting what she wanted to say next.


    He nced at it quickly before hanging up.


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


    Ranita had an intuition that Shannon must have called.


    "What were we talking about just now?" Brendon asked when he realized there was silence from


    Ranita after answering the call.


    Ranita felt like all of sudden her courage vanished after being interrupted by Shannon''s call. She felt


    too naive asking such questions because they still had Shannon in their lives, and who knew maybe


    Shannon was also carrying their child inside?


    It seemed like choosing between ex-wife and true love didn''t leave any room for someone like


    herself to make decisions¡­


    "It doesn''t matter," said Ranita with heavy eyelids turning red, "I''m tired. Can we rest for awhile?"


    "Okay, go to sleep!" Brendon patted her back, as if coaxing a child. "Don''t be afraid, I''ll stay by your


    side."


    The more he said this, the more Ranita felt heartbroken.


    Every time he stayed by Shannon''s side, was it like this too?


    Just then, there was a knock on the door followed by Shannon''s sweet voice, "Ranita, Brendon,


    may Ie in?"


    Both Ranita and Brendon were startled.


    Brendon immediately went to open the door. Outside stood Shannon holding a bouquet of fresh


    daisies with her ck eyes sparkling against her fair face. She spoke in a soft voice, "Brendon, I


    heard you found Ranita. I was so worried about her that I came over right away."


    "Ranita, are you feeling better?" Shannon approached while handing the daisies to Ranita. "You


    must have been scared after what happened."


    Ranita nced at the flowers before responding coolly, "I''m fine now. Thank you Miss Murphy."


    "Don''t be so polite! When I heard about what happened to you, I was really worried! Take these few


    days to rest well and don''t worry about Brendon - let him take care of you!"


    Shannon''s words were full of innocence and liveliness but there was also an underlying tone of


    disdainful pity between each line.

 Chapter 237 Heart Chilled To The Bone

    Chapter 237 Heart Chilled To The Bone


    Chapter 237 Heart Chilled to the Bone


    Shannon was silently telling her something.


    Brendon could take care of her, be with her, it was Shannon''s gift to Ranita!


    Ranita''s heart turned cold as ice.


    "Ranita, let me put these flowers in a vase for you! Do you have one here?" Shannon''s eyes were


    gentle and she seemed unaware of what she had just said. She fluttered away like a butterfly to find


    a vase.


    Ranita''s smile was icy. "Don''t trouble, Miss Murphy. I don''t like daisies."


    "Oh... you don''t like them?" Shannon looked at Brendon with a pitiful expression. "Brendon, did I do


    something wrong? Did I upset Ranita?"


    "I... just wanted to check on Ranita because I''m worried about her. I didn''t mean to disturb you


    guys." Shannon choked up and sounded even more pitiful.


    Brendon furrowed his brows and said, "It''s nothing. She might be a bit tired and wants to rest. Let''s


    go talk outside!"


    "Alright then!" Shannon bit her lip, pitifully looking at Ranita. "Ranita, I won''t disturb you."


    Shannon hesitated before speaking again and nced at Brendon, "There is something that both


    you and Ranita might not want to hear but I have to say it."


    "Ranita had been captive for so many days; it must have taken a toll on her physically and mentally.


    I know a reliable doctor. Would you like me to introduce you to them?"


    "Can you please say something nice instead?" Just then the hospital room door opened and Dn


    pushed Eve inside while holding roses in his hand.


    Eve raised an eyebrow at Shannon, "What do you mean by ''taken a toll on her physically and


    mentally''? What are you trying to imply?"


    "I didn''t mean anything bad... I just wanted what was best for Ranita since she is a girl who


    shouldn''t avoid facing problems but should take measures." Shannon''s eyes were red-rimmed as


    she twisted her fingers anxiously, "If those people had any diseases they could pass them on¡­"


    "Shannon, what nonsense are you talking about? Ranita is innocent. How did you turn nothing into


    something?" Eve couldn''t help but rebuke.


    "You need leave now! You''re not wee here!" Dn also became angry as he grabbed the daisy


    bouquet from Shannon''s hands before ring at Brendon fiercely, "Take your people away or else


    don''t me me if things get ugly!"


    Shannon''s fair face immediately became tearful and aggrieved. "I... I was just worried about Ranita,


    I didn''t mean any harm! You are all her friends, shouldn''t you care about her more?"


    "And this little daisy, I just liked it so much that I wanted to bring it to Ranita!"


    Shannon looked at Brendon with a gentle expression and said in a pitiful tone, "I didn''t mean to do it


    on purpose. Brendon, please believe me?"


    The three people present were all disgusted beyond words.


    Brendon took Shannon outside and saw her crying continuously. He handed her a handkerchief and


    said, "Stop crying! What you said earlier was very disrespectful to Ranita."From N?velDrama.Org.


    "I only had good intentions. I didn''t think too much..." Shannon muttered softly while acting


    coquettishly towards Brendon. "Brendon, don''t me me anymore. I know my mistake now. From


    now on, I won''t say things like that again."


    She acted as if she were innocent and naive.


    Ranita quietly watched Shannon''s performance through the observation window as she saw


    Brendon handing over the handkerchief... Her heart grew colder by the moment.

 Chapter 238 Divorce Cooling-Off Period Expires

    Chapter 238 Divorce Cooling-Off Period Expires


    Chapter 238 Divorce Cooling-off Period Expires


    "Ranita..." Eve saw the lonely and sad look on Ranita''s face, and she took her hand with sympathy.


    "Don''t listen to Shannon''s nonsense," she said.


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


    Ranita pursed her lips. "She was just talking rubbish. I only suffered some physical pain, nothing


    else."


    But what if Brendon believed it? Would he think less of her because of it?


    "Ranita! Don''t worry about it. Shannon is a two-faced person who talks sweetly but stabs you in the


    back. Just ignore her!" Eveforted Ranita and signaled to Dn.


    Dn immediately handed over a rose, saying "Get well soon!"


    The red rose was beautiful and vibrant, making Ranita blush as she tilted her head to say "thank


    you".


    "Don''t be so polite with us! You scared us these past few days; we''re just d you''re back!" Eve


    paused for a moment before ncing at Brendon walking through the door, gritting her teeth as she


    said, "Rest up well. We''ll leave now."


    "Why are we leaving when we''ve just arrived?" Dn refused.


    Eve red at him, causing Dn to obediently follow along.


    The hospital room fell silent again.


    Ranita turned over without looking at Brendon. Outside the window was pitch ck darkness that


    reflected off of her blurry eyes filled with hidden sadness.


    "Ranita..." Brendon grabbed hold of her hand. "Turn around."


    "I want to sleep," Ranita hummed softly while turning away from him. "Don''t bother me."


    Brendon didn''t listen though.


    He walked up next to her bed and crouched down while looking at her saying, "Are you angry?


    Shannon didn''t mean any harm. She''s worried about you too so don''t take it personally."


    Don''t take it personally?


    Why not?


    Just because she wasn''t important enough meant that Ranita had to silently endure everything?


    She had already endured enough!


    "Brendon, how do you know that Shannon didn''t mean any harm? Are you sure what your eyes saw


    and ears heard were true?" asked Ranita coldly.


    Brendon raised his eyebrows seemingly confused by what he heard.


    "You mean that Shannon intentionally targeted against you? That''s just how she is. I''ve known for


    more than twenty years now. She hasn''t changed since then. You must have misunderstood."


    Hearing this made Ranita feel powerless.


    Their childhood friendship had been built up over many years ¨C how could shepare herself?


    The man''s palmnded on top of her head gently rubbing. "You''ve suffered enough these past few


    days. Rest well and don''t think too much." He said softly before upying half of the bed himself.


    Ranita nced at him, but said nothing. She leaned lightly on his shoulder and closed her eyes.


    Ranita was half asleep and couldn''t sleep soundly.


    "I''m here, don''t be afraid." His warm voiceforted her as he patted her back with his palm to


    soothe her.


    After a while, the man reached out and wiped away the tears from the corner of the woman''s eyes.


    Brendon could not forget what he saw when he pushed open the door - Ranita curled up in a mess,


    looking so pitiful and vulnerable. His heart broke at that moment; he wished that it was himself who


    suffered instead of her.


    Brendon hugged Ranita tightly, feeling her warmth and tenderness in his heart.


    Thanks to Steve''s help, Ranita managed to keep her pregnancy hidden. She wanted to tell Brendon


    several times but never had the courage to do so in the end.


    Two more days passed without Shannon bothering them. Ranita slept or ate all day long; gradually


    regaining some color on her face but bing increasingly restless inside.


    On this day, Ranita woke up early - she was waiting for Brendon for a verdict.


    But Brendon did not show up all morning; around noon she couldn''t resist calling him, "Brendon...


    do you remember what today is?"


    Their divorce cooling-off period had expired. They were supposed to go together to apply for their


    divorce certificate.

 Chapter 239 He CanT Catch Up

    Chapter 239 He Can''T Catch Up


    Chapter 239 He Can''t Catch Up


    Early this morning, Julia had already reminded Brendon of their ns. But he didn''t want to go.


    "I have ast-minute project to discuss and I probably won''t make it," Brendon said tly.


    "Sorry."


    This apology surprised Ranita.


    Was Brendon really not interested in getting a divorce or was it just a coincidence that he had to


    discuss the project?


    After hanging up the phone, she was still confused.


    Bouldend Mansion.


    After receiving a call, Shannon swept everything off her desk in anger and cried with red eyes!


    "Shannon! Don''t cry! What''s wrong?" Holly got the news and rushed over, feeling sorry for her


    friend. "Tell us what happened and we''ll help you."


    Shannon wiped away her tears and choked out, "Brendon didn''t go with Ranita to get divorced."


    "What?" Holly also jumped up in shock and said, "How is that possible? What happened?"


    "Brendon said there was ast-minute project discussion in Trabury today that he couldn''t make it!"


    Shannon felt like she had blood clot stuck in her throat but couldn''t spit it out.


    She had been waiting for so long, but at the critical moment, something went wrong on Brendon''s


    side.


    "Why does this project have to be discussed today? No way! I''m calling my brother now!" Holly


    wanted to call but was stopped by Shannon who said, "Holly, don''t bother Brendon anymore. He


    probably didn''t mean it intentionally. That project must be very important... and besides... Ranita is


    still hospitalized right now which isn''t ideal timing."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "What do you mean ''not ideal timing''? When will be better then? We''ve been waiting for so long! It


    must be that bitch Ranita who''s pretending to be pitiful just so my brother will feel sorry for her!"


    Holly dared not do anything against Brendon. Instead she vented all of her anger towards Ranita.


    Shannon bit her lip and shook her head looking helpless yet unwilling to speak up.


    "Oh dear Shannon! You''re just too kind-hearted! You''ve already made concessions for three years.


    This time you can''t back down no matter what happens! Let me take you with me to find justice from


    Ranita!" Holly''s temper came quickly without warning.


    Ranita was resting when the door suddenly burst open rudely as Holly stormed inside saying,


    "Ranita, can you have some shame? You''ve held onto my brother all these years without letting him


    go?"


    "Holly, please leave," Ranitazily replied uninterested in talking with Holly.


    "I''m not going out, so what? Are you disgusted? Being taken away by a group of men, you''re


    already dirty, and you still have the nerve to pester my brother?" Holly pointed at her nose and


    cursed. "Call my brother now. You two must get divorced today."


    Ranita was truly speechless.


    "Holly, watch your mouth! And also, it''s none of your business between me and your brother."


    "I mind. Not only do I mind... I want to kill you!" Holly impulsively charged forward but fortunately the


    nurse who came after hearing themotion stopped her in time. "Miss, please don''t cause


    trouble. I''ve already notified security!"


    "Haha, I''m so scared!" Holly ignored the obstruction and insisted on causing a scene.


    Just then there was an angry shout from outside the door, "Holly! What are you doing? Don''t you


    know this is a hospital?"


    Steve arrived just in time and Holly immediately dared not move. But she still wasn''t convinced,


    "Ranita provoked me first..."


    "Holly, Ranita is a patient sitting there. How could she provoke you?" Another voice came through


    as Chris entered with flowers in hand.


    "Chris... you''re here too?"


    And he even brought flowers for this vixen?


    He never even gave her flowers before! Holly bit her lip with resentment as she red at Ranita


    with hatred in her eyes.

 Chapter 240 Flawed Worldviews

    Chapter 240 wed Worldviews


    Chapter 240 wed Worldviews


    "Holly, because of Brendon, I won''t send you to the police station. But remember, if you ever shout


    and disturb patients in the hospital again, don''t me me for being impolite!" Steve said as he gave


    a nod to the security guard who had just arrived.


    The guard immediately stopped Holly and escorted her out.


    Holly was a rich girl who had never experienced such humiliation before.


    "Steve! You''ve gone too far! After all these years of friendship, you''re going to side with Ranita?"


    Holly used Steve in anger.


    Before this incident, Steve thought that Amiya had spoiled Holly too much. But now it seemed that it


    wasn''t just about being spoiled - Holly''s values were also problematic!


    "Holly, I stand by what''s right!" Steve paused and looked at Chris. "I''m sure Chris feels the same


    way."


    Holly looked at Chris and saw disappointment in his eyes. She felt embarrassed and humiliated as if


    she was nailed to a shame pole with no face left!


    Fuming with anger, Holly ran away.


    Chris put the flowers on the table and sat down properly on his chair. "Sorry that Holly caused


    trouble for you again," he apologized.


    "It has nothing to do with you guys," Ranita sighed. "Mr. Webster, why do you have time today?"


    "Chris wanted toe see you earlier but Brendon is guarding here every day so he couldn''t get


    in," Steve said lightly while crossing his arms.


    "I''m sorry I couldn''te sooner," Chris smiled apologetically while asking about her health status.


    In fact, Chris had put in a lot of effort looking for Ranita but there was no need to mention it now.


    "There''s nothing wrong anymore! The doctor said I can be discharged from the hospital."


    "That''s great then! We have nothing else nned this afternoon so let us take you home!" Steve


    checked his watch before suggesting they celebrate over lunch together.


    They enjoyed their lunch very much together.


    Steve went back to work at the hospital while Chris apanied Ranita back home for her first


    time since she got sick.


    At her doorstep instead of entering inside like usual guests would do; he politely asked, "Can I help


    carry anything? Do you need any assistance?"


    "I can manage myself fine. Thanks, Mr. Webster." Ranita smiled sweetly at him.


    She had been resting well these past few days which made her skin look even more beautiful than


    usual - making anyone feelfortable around her presence alone.


    Chris felt rxed around Ranita without any reason whatsoever.


    "Don''t worry about being polite!"


    "I''m really sorry for pushing back our scheduled work with you," Ranita said, feeling guilty about


    Chris.


    Chris smiled. "It''s okay. The materials you prepared for me before were very useful."


    "Anyway, I''m still sorry," Ranita sighed. She couldn''t believe how many setbacks she had been


    facingtely. "Let me take you out to dinner sometime."


    After Chris left, Ranita took a nap at home.


    Half asleep and half awake, she didn''t sleep well.


    The days when she was kidnapped had caused her harm; without Brendon by her side, she would


    wake up in cold sweat.


    Startled awake, Ranita realized it was already dark outside.


    The apartment was pitch ck without any lights on. As soon as she moved her leg, a sharp pain


    shot through it - another cramp!


    Only those who had experienced the pain of cramps can truly understand it.


    Ranita wanted to call for help but the pain was too much; all she could do was curl up in bed and


    break into a cold sweat from head to toe...


    Suddenly there was a sound of opening door.


    "Click!"


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She cried out like a cat, "Brendon..."

 Chapter 241 Do You Want To Invite Me To Shower Together?

    Chapter 241 Do You Want To Invite Me To Shower Together?


    Chapter 241 Do You Want to Invite Me to Shower Together?


    "Ranita? Ranita?" As the lights suddenly turned on, Brendon was so scared by Ranita''s appearance


    that he felt like his soul was about to leave his body.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Cramp... it hurts so much..." Ranita''s eyes turned red and she softly cried out in pain upon seeing


    Brendon.


    Brendon asked while massaging her calf, "Does it hurt here?"


    "Um... hiss..." Ranitay on the bed, her face looking pitiful with a red tail of her eye due to pain.


    Her watery eyes stared at him and she said, "Use a little more force."


    Brendon''s fingers were strong, and he kneaded away some of the pain.


    Ranita felt much better, her voice with a nasal tone as if she was coquettishly saying, "Brendon, go


    up a bit, it hurts there!"


    The woman''s calves were slender, with pale skin, and still tender and moist.


    Brendon felt the heat on his fingertips, which made his heart also warm up! The man lowered his


    eyes and moved his fingers up slightly, asking in a low voice, "Is this it?"


    "Right, right, right..."


    Brendon rubbed for half an hour, sweating profusely, and then went to prepare some hot water for


    Ranita. He came back and bent down to carry her into the bathroom.


    "Take a hot bath and rx your muscles," he said.


    Essential oils with a rose scent were added to the hot water for aromatherapy.


    "Put me down!" Ranita shrunk in Brendon''s arms, her face turning red with bted realization. "I


    cane by myself."


    "You''re still shy with me?" Brendon''s face was cold, and his sarcastic words were extremely t and


    calm.


    Byparison, Ranita felt that she had lost thoroughly.


    After being married for three years, she still felt nervous every time she faced him.


    "Not... I want to do it myself." Ranita turned her face away, her ears turning red, clearly lying.


    Brendon let go of her and his fingersnded on her cor. "I''ll help you undo it."


    "Can we just leave it at that?"


    Ranita''s eyes widened slightly and she backed away like a frightened Persian cat. "No, it''s okay... I


    can do it myself... ah!"


    She stepped back.


    The leg that was cramping suddenly lost its strength, causing her body to lean towards the wall.


    Luckily, Brendon quickly caught her and said, "Be careful!"


    "If your foot hurts, don''t move around too much," Brendon paused and crouched down, grabbing her


    right foot and gently pressing on her calf.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "It was already injured and now it''s cramping up, so it''s definitely ufortable."


    Ranita blushed under his gaze.


    "Oh, no... my leg doesn''t hurt anymore. I can manage on my own." At the hospital, she was still in


    shock and not thinking straight.


    But now that she was back home, there was no way she could let Brendon help her again.


    "You need to leave!" Ranita grabbed his hand and pushed him towards the door. Brendon didn''t


    want her to fall, so he ced his hand on her waist. "Be careful not to fall!"


    Ranita blushed even more at his words.


    "I won''t! I''m not a three-year-old..." But before she could finish her sentence, Ranita lost her bnce


    and they both fell into the nearby bathtub with a loud ssh.


    "Whoosh!"


    Ranita instantly became drenched like a drowned rat while Brendon wasn''t any better off as he


    choked on some water!


    Feeling apologetic towards Brendon, Ranita tried to get up and grab him a towel but found herself


    trapped by him instead. His eyes were dark as he looked at her wet shirt which revealed some of


    his honey-colored chest skin that glistened in the light with an alluring quality about it.


    He tilted his head slightly and teased, "So you wanted me to join you for a bath?"

 Chapter 242 Cooking

    Chapter 242 Cooking


    Chapter 242 Cooking


    "No, no!" Ranita didn''t mean it that way.


    Who could have imagined things would turn out like this?


    "You''re talking nonsense!" Ranita was annoyed, her eyes reddening as she reached out and hit him.


    Water sshed up, hitting Brendon in the face.


    His cold eyes softened a bit instead of looking embarrassed. Brendon grabbed her wrist and pulled


    her over a bit.


    "What are you doing?" Ranita blushed at his gaze, her voice trembling slightly.


    As soon as she spoke, he wetly pinched her chin with his fingers and kissed her again.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Brendon''s kiss went from shallow to deep, long enough to feel like an entire century had passed by.


    It was both long and sweet, giving Ranita the illusion of being deeply loved.


    Ranita''s heart leapt high but then fell heavily back down again; jumping chaotically between


    anticipation and anger.


    "Let''s take a bath first. The water will get cold soon; you''ll catch a cold." Brendon said while staring


    at the neckline on her shirt again.


    Ranita felt shy and didn''t say anything more about it.


    Taking a bath should have been an easygoing thing to do but with Brendon around all the time, all


    of Ranita''s thoughts were swept away leaving nothing behind except confusion in her head.


    Being wrapped up in towels after getting out made Ranita blush even harder than before.


    She hid under the nket, only showing her two eyes. Seeing Brendon sitting on the edge of the


    bed grabbing her calf, she lightly kicked him and said, "Stop rubbing. I want to sleep."


    Brendon didn''t let go, holding onto her ankle and pulling her towards him. "Feeling better?" he


    asked.


    Ranita felt weak when asked this question.


    "It still hurts." She looked at him with pleading eyes.


    "Why is your leg cramping? Didn''t you tell Steve about this when they checked your body? If not we


    can go see another doctor tomorrow because I don''t think Steve is very reliable!"


    Hearing this made Ranita quickly shake head saying, "No need! My appetite hasn''t been goodtely


    so Dr. Pearson gave me some vitamins and calcium tablets which I''ll eat properly."


    She was pregnant so during those days locked up by Turner she hadn''t eaten well enough for


    herself or for baby inside either.


    "Mmm," pausing for moment Brenden continued speaking, "I hired a servant toe help cook


    meals while also taking care of you. Even though you''ve been discharged from hospital, you still


    need rest."


    Ranita declined, saying, "No need! I can take care of myself. I''m not used to having others around


    at home. Besides, the apartment is small, and there''s no space for more people."


    "Even if the servant doesn''t stay here, she cane during the day to tidy up and cook for you. I''ll


    take care of you at night," he added, causing Ranita''s heart to skip a beat once again.


    "You probably haven''t eaten anything yet, right? I''m not great at cooking, but how about we have


    some noodles together?"


    Ranita stared at him in surprise. "You can cook?"


    "Don''t worry about it. I have a good memory and cooking noodles shouldn''t be too hard!" Brendon


    was confident and Ranita didn''t want to discourage him, so she just pursed her lips without saying


    anything.


    Half an hourter.


    Brendon came back with a dark expression on his face. "Let''s go eat!"


    Ranita couldn''t help butugh and asked, "Did it not turn out well?"


    Brendon''s face grew even darker as he bent down to flick her nose with his finger. "Why do I feel


    like you''reughing at me?" His voice was low and pleasant.


    The sudden intimacy made Ranita blush as she smiled back at him. "It''s rare! You finally found


    something you''re not good at!"


    Not only was Brendon handsome, but he also grew up in a wealthy family and had many talents.


    When he first started high school, he even participated in the school talent show wearing a white


    tuxedo with his slim figure standing tall under the spotlight while ying the cello.

 Chapter 243 Always Peeking At Him

    Chapter 243 Always Peeking At Him


    Chapter 243 Always Peeking at Him


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


    The video was still posted on the official forum of his high school to this day.


    Ranita saved it and watched it many times over. It wasn''t until she married Brendon that she


    learned of Shannon''s existence. When she saw the photo of Shannon holding a cello, her passion


    was extinguished by a cold reality.


    In the end, Ranita deleted the video.


    "Hmph! You haven''t even eaten yet, how do you know I failed?" Brendon grumbled, clearly not


    wanting to admit that he didn''t have much talent in cooking.


    "Come on, if we wait too long, the noodles will get cold," Ranita said softly with a yful pout in her


    eyes that made her look adorable.


    Brendon reached into the covers and tickled her, "Not getting up?"


    Ranitaughed and rolled around before grabbing Brendon''s hand. Her eyes were red fromughter


    as she scolded him, "Stop it! It''s so ticklish!"


    "Get up already!" Brendon pulled back the covers and lifted her up from underarms as Ranita


    suddenly felt weightless for a moment before quickly wrapping her arms around his neck.


    "What are you doing?"


    "I''m carrying you to eat!" After walking a few steps, Brendon asked, "Is your leg still hurting?"


    "You just massaged it. I''m not expecting miracles here," said Ranita who wasn''t being overly


    dramatic since cramps can be really painful sometimes. Thest time she had one itsted for days


    but thankfully Steve gave her some medicine which helped alleviate some pain...


    "Oh yeah, could you grab my phone? I need to call Dr. Pearson..." Before she finished sentence


    though, Brendon cut her off with an icy tone, "Why are you calling Steve? Are you asking him to


    come over and massage your leg? What kind of dream world are you living in?"


    Brendon put down Ranita on a chair then circled behind her while pressing his cheek against hers


    as he spoke gloomily, "Ranita, don''t forget we''re still married."


    "I just wanted Dr. Pearson to send me two bags of medicine so I can apply heat therapy... why are


    you jumping into conclusions?" Pausing briefly, Ranita suddenly lowered her voice, "Brendon, there


    is something Iwant to talk to you about our divorce..."


    "We''ll talk about thatter. Right now there''s nothing more important than taking care of your leg."


    Turning around, Brendon went into the kitchen and took out the noodles while saying, "It won''t take


    much longer anyway."


    Did this mean they were going to divorce eventually?


    Ranita didn''t feel good about this at all. The noodles weren''t cooked well at all - they were even


    slightly raw - with some vegetables thrown on top along with an egg fried half-burnt.


    There wasn''t any vor in the soup either. It was not bad for a beginner though...


    Brendon had high expectations, but after a few bites, he put down his chopsticks. "Let''s order


    takeout," he suggested.


    "I think it''s pretty good," Ranita didn''t want to discourage him and took a bite of the egg. Against her


    better judgment, sheplimented him, "The eggs are really delicious! I like my food light and this


    is just perfect."


    Brendon raised an eyebrow and visibly brightened up. "Really? It tastes good?" If he had a tail, it


    would probably be wagging like a propeller!


    Ranita smiled and said, "It''s really not bad at all. You''re quite talented."


    "I knew I could do it!" Brendon was now proud of himself. "I''ll make you breakfast tomorrow."


    After filling their stomachs, Brendon suggested taking a walk outside.


    "Sure!" Ranita let him lead her out the door.


    The weather was getting hotter but there was still a cool breeze in the evening that made them feel


    comfortable inside.


    Brendon held onto her hand as they walked slowly; asionally she would sneak nces at his


    profile.


    Brendon found them both chairs to rest on; his long arm draped over her shoulder as he asked with


    amusement in his eyes, "Ranita, I''ve noticed you keep stealing nces at me. Is there something


    on my face?"

 Chapter 244 Suffering

    Chapter 244 Suffering


    Chapter 244 Suffering


    This was probably the agony of unrequited love. A heart full of feelings, yet never daring to express


    them.


    Luckily, it was nighttime and the darkness helped hide Ranita''s slightly blushing cheeks as she


    avoided looking at him. "Who''s checking you out? Don''t be so conceited," she said.


    Brendon turned her face towards him, his handsome face getting closer and his longshes even


    brushing against her cheek as he breathed in her ear. "That''s not necessarily true, after all my face


    is pretty."


    "We''ve been doing this for years!" Ranita put a hand up to stop him from getting too close. "You''re


    such a child!"


    Ranita smirked.


    "So you''re tired of me?" Brendon felt a little emotional inside. He reached out to rub her head and


    said, "Smile more often. You look beautiful when you do."


    Ranita was taken aback for a moment.


    "Let''s go! Let''s go home!" Brendon helped her back home while Ranita was feeling quite sleepy at


    first but now she didn''t want to sleep anymore.


    She read while Brendon went off to wash up.


    "You''re still awake?"


    "I''ve slept enough these past few days. I want to read." As soon as Ranita finished speaking, the


    book in her hand was taken away by Brendon who then hugged her waist tightly and pulled her into


    his embrace saying, "The doctor says you need proper rest."


    Ranita pushed against Brendon but didn''t have enough strength.


    She panted with red cheeks saying, "You''re holding me too tight. How am I supposed to sleep?


    Loosen your grip a bit."


    Brendon grabbed her hand and pressed it against her forehead. His gaze seemed to carry a wave


    of heat, making Ranita even redder. She felt a slight sweat on her back. "I... I''m going to sleep.


    Don''t look at me like that," she stammered.


    Ranita obedientlyplied.


    She snuggled next to Brendon feeling both sour and sweet inside.


    Brendon did not mention anything about divorce; he just took care of how she felt right now which


    fulfilled his marital duty.


    Ranita reminded herself not get caught up again! Not get caught up again!


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


    But she didn''t sleep well.


    The torment of those seven or eight days was enough to cause her stress. However, in front of


    others, she appeared very strong.


    "It hurts... it hurts... I''m so thirsty... give me some water..." Ranita had nightmares where she


    returned back into that small dpidated house where iron chains hung around ankles...


    "Brenden... Brenden..." Ranita sweated profusely all over body shaking uncontrobly.


    She wanted desperately to wake up but consciousness seemed separated from brain, making her


    unable to control her body movements.


    "Ranita!" Brendon woke up immediately, patting Ranita''s back and holding her in his arms to


    comfort her. "It''s okay! I''m here! You''re safe now, I''m right here with you!"


    "Don''t be afraid! It''s okay..." Brendon spoke softly, soothing her.


    Ever since they came back, Ranita had been like this almost every night. Brendon felt heartbroken.


    That was why he didn''t want to let go of Ranita at this moment no matter what. Even if they were


    really going to get a divorce, he would wait until she was better before leaving.


    Ranita wasforted and held onto his clothes tightly, tears in the corners of her eyes as she


    curled up into a small ball like an abandoned animal - pitiful beyond words.


    When Ranita woke up from her sleep, Brendon wasn''t on the bed anymore.


    She felt confused for a moment and thought that maybe it was all just a dream. She couldn''t


    remember what happened but felt mentally exhausted and extremely tired.


    "Mmm... okay... I understand..." Brendon''s voice came from outside as she stumbled towards the


    door to listen more closely.


    "Ranita hasn''t been sleeping well these days so I''ll stay here with her for now."


    "Sorry, Shannon," he continued speaking on the phone. "If you want anything as a gift just tell


    Caleb."


    Ranita listened absentmindedly as waves of sourness washed over her heart.

 Chapter 245 His Memory Is Good

    Chapter 245 His Memory Is Good


    Chapter 245 His Memory is Good


    Ranita leaned against the wall, feeling both bitter and powerless.


    Everything Brendon gave her was like floating bubbles, beautiful and dazzling under the sunshine,


    but fragile enough to shatter with a touch.


    The atmosphere at the dining table was quiet.


    Ranita ate a slice of bread and didn''t want to eat anymore.


    "Have some more to eat! The doctor said you''re too skinny," Brendon handed her the milk, and


    Ranita nodded as she forced herself to drink it.


    "I''m taking a day off today, would you like to go out for a walk with me? Is there any ce you want


    to go?" Brendon said and then frowned, "If your foot still hurts, don''t go too far."


    Ranita didn''t want to go anywhere.


    "I want to sleep at home." After bing pregnant, she had be very sleepy. It was not too bad


    before, but it had be extremely obvious in thest few days.


    Ranita said as she yawned.


    Brendon clearly disagreed, "It''s not good for your body to keep lying down and sleeping."


    "I remember you used to like going to the library, do you want me to apany you?"


    Ranita used to go to the library for research purposes, but now she was an expert and went there


    less often.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon didn''t wear a suit today, he changed into casual clothes.


    A person who looks good will still look good even if they wear tattered clothes. This statement was


    absolutely true when it came to Brendon. With a simple outfit of ck pants and a white shirt, he


    managed to exude the aura of a model.


    Ranita rarely saw him dressed like this and took a few more nces.


    "It looks very young!" and handsome too! Ranita sincerelyplimented, but Brendon slightly


    frowned as he listened.


    Did he look old now?


    "Do I look old?" Brendon asked in a straight male tone.


    Ranita helped him put on a leather wristwatch that didn''t look too formal. "It looks great! Not old at


    all."


    Brendon, who received praise, raised his eyebrows and made a sound of agreement.


    "You sit down first!" Brendon pulled Ranita to sit down and grabbed her ankle to examine it carefully.


    "It seems much better now!"


    The wound on the ankle was caused by rubbing against an iron chain, and it looked red, but the


    skin damage was not serious.


    "It didn''t really hurt to begin with," Ranita said casually.


    Brendon hung his head, feeling uneasy. Couldn''t this woman show a little vulnerability in front of


    him? She was always like this, hiding herself away like a big turtle.


    Excited to go out, but unfortunately the library was closed.


    Brendon''s face turned dark, "Why isn''t the library open on Tuesdays?"


    "Not every week, they sent an early notice that today they needed to relocate and organize some


    books, so that''s why the library is closed... How about we go to the museum? I''ve been in Kurima


    for many years, but haven''t been to the Pce Museum yet!" Ranita paused and smiled.


    "How is that possible? Didn''t you volunteer at the museum before?"


    Ranita exined, feeling embarrassed. "Volunteers can only guide visitors in designated areas and


    cannot visit themselves."


    Pausing for a moment, Ranita asked in surprise, "I don''t think I told you about it. How did you


    know?"


    It was something she did during her college years, many years ago.


    Brendon replied vaguely, "You mentioned it to me before. Did you forget?"


    "Did I?" Ranita couldn''t remember.


    "It was a long time ago. We were driving by and you mentioned it casually," Brendon paused and


    lifted his chin. "I have a good memory."


    Ranita didn''t ask any further questions.


    Brendon breathed a sigh of relief.


    How did he know? Of course not from what Ranita said but from reading her diary. She only


    mentioned it briefly in her diary but he somehow remembered it clearly.

 Chapter 246 Playing

    Chapter 246 ying


    Chapter 246 ying


    Brendon found a parking spot and said, "It''s getting hot. Put on your hat!" He ced the baseball


    cap on her head and helped fix her hair before extending his hand. "Let''s go."


    "Do you want to hold my hand?"


    Ranita didn''t move, looking at him.


    "Is that impossible? You''re my wife," Brendon replied casually, causing Ranita''s heart to skip a beat.


    She ced her hand in his palm and nodded softly.


    There weren''t many people entering the museum at this time, so Ranita didn''t go to many ces.


    Instead, she picked some galleries to stroll through carefully. Sometimes she would discuss with


    Brendon about what they saw; overall it was a pleasant atmosphere.


    "Brendon, can I take a photo with you?" Ranita stood in the sunlight gazing at him affectionately.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    They had been married for three years but had never taken any photos together outside of business


    asions. Now standing next to Brendon in the sunshine feltfortable and carefree; it made


    Ranita feel happy and bright.


    "Can I?" she asked again.


    "Of course!" Brendon stepped forward and put his arm around hers. "Selfie?"


    Ranita looked shyly at their faces close together; she quickly asked a passing girl for help taking


    their picture.


    The girl was good at photography as well as being sociable - capturing not only goodposition


    but also excellent expressions of both subjects.


    "It looks great," said Ranita holding up her phone while scrolling through several times.


    She was feeling soft inside from seeing how handsome Brendon looked from every angle while


    realizing how stiff she appeared inparison.


    Ranita felt depressed thinking about it: why couldn''t she look more natural?


    "It really does look great!" Brendon leaned over to see too then added, "Send me one too."


    "You want one too?" Ranita looked at him cautiously. Under the brim of the hat, Brendon''s face


    appeared small, with a high nose and lips that were long and glossy, making him handsome and


    charming.


    "Maybe it''s better not to, in case..." In case someone he loved found out in the future... Ranita


    suddenly couldn''t continue, feeling a pang of heartache.


    "What? What in case?" Brendon didn''t hear clearly and looked up at her, questioning.


    Ranita shook her head smiling gently despite having red cheeks from sun exposure saying softly,


    "Nothing."


    Brenden heard everything clearly though¡­


    "If you want photos, I can send them to you. Which ones do you want?" Ranita changed the subject.


    The youngdy had taken over a dozen photos for them, and in Ranita''s eyes, each one was


    beautiful!


    Among these beautiful photos, Ranita''s favorite was the one where they were looking at each other.


    The red wall was crimson and they happened to be wearing white clothes. Their profiles were


    exquisite and their eyes met in the air...


    These gave Ranita her biggest fantasy.


    "Send me all of them," Brendon said as he looked at that particr photo with a smile. "This photo


    is really well taken."


    "Right? I also think it''s very beautiful," Ranita agreed with a soft expression in her lowered eyes.


    "In that case, let''s take moreter," Brendon held her hand and continued their tour. With the


    addition of taking pictures along the way, their pace slowed down even more.


    After a simple stroll around, it was already two o''clock and they hadn''t eaten lunch yet.


    "Are you tired or hungry? Since we''re visiting the museum anyway, why don''t we try some roast


    duck?" Brendon grew up in Kurima so he wasn''t particrly fond of roast duck but his taste leaned


    towards local vors.


    Ranita grew up in Stnd where dishes tended to be milder.


    It seemed like even their tastes werepletely different!

 Chapter 247 Disgusting Beyond Words

    Chapter 247 Disgusting Beyond Words


    Chapter 247 Disgusting Beyond Words


    "Okay, I''ll give it a try!"


    Since she had never really tried it before, Ranita decided to give it a shot. It was gettingte, so


    Brendon called ahead and had the restaurant save a roast duck for them.


    It looked delicious, but Ranita forgot that she was still in the early stages of morning sickness. As


    soon as she saw the food, waves of nausea hit her.


    "Ugh!" Ranita couldn''t hold back and rushed to the bathroom to vomit. When she came out, her face


    was pale and Brendon frowned at her.


    "What''s wrong? Why is your face so pale?"


    "It''s nothing... I just felt sick for a moment."


    "You don''t have acute gastritis again, do you? You''ve been skipping mealstely... let''s eat


    something now and then I''ll take you to see a doctorter! And don''t wait until it gets worse likest


    time."


    Ranita had experienced acute gastritis before but didn''t go to the hospital until two dayster when


    Brendon found her passed out in their office during overtime work. If he hadn''t taken her to the


    hospital in time, things could have ended badly.


    Thinking back on those times made Ranita smile wryly. Her pale face with lips curved into an


    awkward smile looked pitiful.


    "You''re still smiling?" Brendon scolded irritably but quickly ordered some light congee from the


    kitchen for her anyway.


    "I''m really okay. There''s no pain," said Ranita after much persuasion from Brendon not to go see a


    doctor yet again this time around.


    After finishing one bowl of congee which filled up her stomach nicely, Ranita looked at all of the


    untouched dishes on their table with regret, "What a waste! I''m such an unlucky person who can


    never enjoy good food!"


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


    Fortunately they didn''t order too much or else it would''ve been even more wasteful than ever


    before.


    Brendon saw how disappointed she was about not being able to finish everything, so he called over


    their waiter and asked him pack up everything left over, "We can eat them tonight without wasting


    anything."


    "Oh by the way," said Brendon while driving his car afterwards. "I want take you somewhere


    special."


    Brendon was driving, and Ranita was chatting with Eve. Unable to resist, she sent a photo to Eve,


    which infuriated Eve to the point of using her of disying their love.


    However, in the end, Eve still gave Ranita some face and praised her, "You look really beautiful!"


    "Were you happy when he took you out today?"


    Ranita wasn''t unhappy per se. However, this kind of happiness felt like stolen moments thatcked


    substance or meaning - making things feel somewhat duller than what they should be.


    She replied calmly, "I just want to cherish every moment we spend together."


    Her words sounded sad even though nobody knew what would happen next ¨C making everyone''s


    heart ache unbearably¡­


    "Who are you chatting with so seriously?" Brendon called out to Ranita, who snapped back to reality


    and put her phone down. "Oh, just chatting with Eve for a bit," she replied.


    Eve stared at her phone for a long time, tapping her fingers back and forth before finally settling on


    the photo. She scrolled through her contacts and sent the photo directly to Shannon.


    As soon as she saw the typing notification on the other end, Eve immediately retracted the photo


    and wrote an ambiguous message, "Oops, sorry about that! I sent it by mistake!"


    Shannon called Eve right away.


    "What was that picture you just sent me all about?" she asked in a soft voice tinged with hurt


    feelings. usations seemed toe naturally.


    "It was nothing," Eve chuckled dismissively. "I already took it back anyway. Just pretend like you


    never saw it."


    "But I did see it!" Shannon protested softly but firmly. "You did that on purpose, didn''t you?"


    Eve rolled her eyes in exasperation and mimicked Shannon''s nauseating tone of voice as she


    gasped out three breaths between each word, "Oh my gosh Miss Murphy! Don''t be so quick to


    use me! I really did send it by mistake! Be more magnanimous please. Sending one picture isn''t


    illegal or anything... You''re not actually angry, are you?"

 Chapter 248 Time, Slow Down A Bit

    Chapter 248 Time, Slow Down A Bit


    Chapter 248 Time, Slow Down a Bit


    "I heard that you''re kind-hearted and easy-going, so you won''t get angry over such a small matter,


    right?" Eve paused before continuing with a pout.


    "They were just two couples going out to have fun. I thought they looked so sweet and happy


    together that I wanted to share it with my other good friends. It was just an ident."


    Finally, Eve sighed and said, "Of course, if you insist on thinking that I did it on purpose, there''s


    nothing I can do about it."


    Shannon''s face turned red with anger as she clenched her fists and spoke in a coquettish voice.


    "Eve, I didn''t mean anything by it. I just didn''t expect you to suddenly send Ranita and Brendon''s


    photos. You know... my rtionship with Brendon..."


    "Wait a minute! That sounds really strange. If you say it like that, people will misunderstand you.


    You grew up together with Brendon. He has been married to Ranita for several years now. Their


    marriage certificate is real! Luckily for me, I''m in the know about this situation. If someone else


    heard what you said, they would think you were trying to interfere in someone else''s marriage!"


    "In the entertainment industry, this would be big news! Miss Murphy, please don''t jump into the fire


    pit yourself!" Eve advised sincerely while choking back tears.


    Shannon was so angry she trembled all over; she wished she could rip Eve''s mouth apart but her


    public image had always been one of an innocent princess so instead gritted her teeth and


    pretended not to understand what was being said, "Thank you for caring about me like this, Eve."


    "Then tell me honestly - did Ranita ask you to send the photo?"


    Shannon really made people sick - how could poor Ranita put up with her until now?


    Eve smiled wryly before saying, "I already told you it was an ident! Oh dear my hand hurts... my


    doctor ising soon to change my bandages, sorry!"


    Eve hung up the phone feeling refreshed.


    However, not long after that call ended, Eve''s agent called her angrily, "Have you recently provoked


    Shannon? Several of their teams have bought dirt on us readying themselves against us. You are


    doing well at the hospital why bother taking care of others? You don''t have any business dealings or


    much interaction with Shannon. How did things escte?"


    As an actress, Eve had very little contact with Shannon at all.


    "Oh my, do I have any dirt on me? I don''t know. Besides, aren''t we promoting a new drama


    recently? Let her spread rumors and help me with some publicity." Eve said this and the agent also


    thought it was pretty smart. "You''re such a little clever fox," she said.


    The sun was shining.


    Ranita had eaten enough and was dozing off in the car.


    "Ranita!" Suddenly, her face was pressed against Brendon''s palm. She opened her eyes groggily to


    see Brendon holding up her head with his hand.


    "Be careful not to bump your head!" Brendon moved her head slightly. "If you''re tired, go back to


    sleep. I''ll wake you up when we get there."


    The afternoon sun was dazzling but it made Brendon look so gentle.


    Ranita thought that this kind of Brendon was really good.


    She reached out and grabbed his hand, rubbing her cheek against it as she yawned and watched


    him drive.


    Time spent with Brendon was truly wonderful; she wished time could stop or at least make this road


    longer so that they could take their time.


    "Ding Ling Ling!" The phone rang suddenly breaking the silence.


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


    Ranita nced at the screen seeing Shannon''s name disyed on it; instantly bing more


    alert.


    Here came trouble!


    Brendon turned on navigation for his phone while leaving the call on speakerphone. Shannon''s


    pitiful yet coquettish voice filled the car, "Brendon..."

 Chapter 249 Can We Not Get Divorced?

    Chapter 249 Can We Not Get Divorced?


    Chapter 249 Can We Not Get Divorced?


    Shannon spoke with exaggerated breaths and a thick ent, sounding both innocent and flirtatious.


    "Where are you? Why haven''t you been talking to me all day? I sent you messages but you didn''t


    reply. It''s making me so sad!"


    Brendon listened, ncing at Ranita subconsciously. He noticed her expression was neutral, almost


    indifferent, and felt a pang of difort in his heart.


    "Is there something wrong, Shannon?" Brendon asked with pursed lips.


    "Brendon... can''t I call you just because? I''m so bored at home today. Can Ie see you?"


    Shannon said softly and tentatively before adding pitifully, "It''s almost dinner time now. Let''s go eat


    together... if Ranita is free she cane too."


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


    Ranita couldn''t help feeling speechless as she listened.


    Brendon felt awkward and wanted to hang up the phone but Ranita held onto his wrist tightly.


    He turned back to grab her hand in return, squeezing it gently while looking into her eyes with mixed


    emotions.


    "Brendon! Are you ignoring me just because of Ranita?" Shannon sniffled before continuing on


    another topic suddenly, "Someone sent me a picture earlier then deleted it immediately after but I


    still saw it... it was a picture of you two together! Maybe Ranita did that on purpose?"


    "I know that sometimes my actions upset her but I really don''t mean to do that. Why does she


    always seem so hostile towards me?"


    It hurt when someone kept holding back their true feelings like this...


    Ranita couldn''t take it anymore, "Miss Murphy... excuse my interruption for a moment here. When


    did I ever send any pictures to you? We''re not even friends yet!"


    Her voice sounded cold as ice as she proved Shannon wrong verbally without mercy or hesitation.


    There was silence from Shannon for three seconds until she spoke again with an even more pitiful


    tone than before, "I''m sorry Ranita... I misspoke earlier out of anxiety. It was actually Eve who sent


    the photo to me since she is your good friend too."


    In any case though, this mess had already been thrown onto poor Ranita...


    Sheughed sarcastically before saying bluntly, "Miss Murphy, maybe Eve made an honest mistake


    sending that photo by ident too! Besides, why exactly do you think that I dislike your presence


    around here anyway?"


    "You should have read a lot of books as a rich girl. Don''t you know the meaning of propriety,


    righteousness, integrity and shame? You pulled and pushed with my husband, even rolled into his


    bed, and you want me to like you? Be grateful to you?"


    Ranita''s words made Shannon cry out in tears. She tried to defend herself, "Ranita, I''m sorry... I


    didn''t mean it... I never thought this would happen! And don''t you have no feelings for Brendon?


    Didn''t you get divorced?"


    Ranita was so angry that her brain was congested. She raised her voice at Shannon regardless of


    Brendon''s presence, "Miss Murphy, I''m afraid that will disappoint you! I don''t n on getting


    divorced!"


    "Brendon, I''m not getting divorced!"


    Brendon parked the car on the side of the road and looked at her with deep eyes while Shannon


    continued speaking pitifully, "Ranita, it''s okay if you''re angry but why do this? You clearly have no


    feelings for Brendon anymore. What''s the point in continuing this marriage?"


    Brendon hung up his phone and turned it off.


    "Ranita... what did you mean by saying we won''t get divorced just now?" He pulled Ranita closer


    and saw that she was red-eyed from anger with words stuck in her throat. Ranita looked at him with


    a soft voice, "Brendon¡­can we not get divorced?"

 Chapter 250 You DonT Want To, Then DonT

    Chapter 250 You Don''T Want To, Then Don''T


    Chapter 250 You Don''t Want to, Then Don''t


    "Was Ranita just speaking out of anger, or does she really not want a divorce?" Brendon thought for


    a moment before taking her hand and holding it tightly in his palm. He noticed that Ranita''s fingers


    were trembling.


    "Ranita..." he began, but she quickly pulled her hand away, feeling uneasy and nervous about how


    Brendon would react.


    "I''m sorry... I spoke out of turn earlier," she said, biting her lip. She was afraid that Brendon would


    be angry with her for changing her mind about the divorce.


    But instead of getting upset, Brendon interrupted her and said firmly, "If you don''t want to leave me,


    then we won''t get divorced."


    "Ah?" Ranita was stunned for a moment, and her heart suddenly surged like a tsunami, causing a


    commotion.


    What did Brendon mean? Were they really not getting divorced?


    Ranita''s mind went nk, and she couldn''t think calmly anymore. Did Brendon know what he was


    saying?


    "What did you say?" Ranita asked again. Was she hallucinating?


    Brendon looked at her foolish expression and chuckled softly, "I said, if you don''t want to, we won''t


    get divorced."


    This time, Ranita pricked up her ears and heard it clearly!


    Her eyes became heavy, and her breath almost stopped.


    "What you said... is it true? Don''t joke with me, I''ll take it seriously." Ranita''s heart exploded like a


    brilliant firework, and her eyes lit up.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Brendon''s mind wandered.


    "It''s true. If you don''t want to... we''ll just stay like before." Brendon paused, "We can''t stop by the


    roadside for too long, let''s talk about it when we get home."


    Brendon drove to a store called Treasures and Trinkets.


    Ranita got out of the car, and her hand was immediately held by Brendon. She listened as Brendon


    exined, "This weekend is The Old Mr. Webster''s birthday, and I''ve prepared a gift for him. Let''s


    go get it first."


    The Old Mr. Webster''s birthday was a big celebration in Kurima, and many prominent families


    attended the banquet, making it a lively scene.


    In previous years, Ranita hadn''t attended, as Brendon would take Holly instead.


    It was not that Brendon didn''t take her, but rather Amiya always felt unwell on that day, needing


    Ranita to take care of her.


    Amiya had a difficult personality, and she always gave Ranita a hard time.


    This year, she left Bouldend Mansion and forgot all about it.


    "Oh yeah... I forgot too," Ranita pursed her lips. "Can you help me pick out a gift for the Old Mr.


    Webster?"


    Brendon reminded her, "Watch out for the threshold." Then he added, "You can juste with me


    when I go. We''re a team now, so whatever I give is what you give."


    A team.


    The words made Ranita feel bitter inside.


    What was Brendon thinking? They weren''t getting divorced anymore - what about Shannon? She


    shouldn''t be thinking like this from Ranita''s perspective, but love is selfish. She hoped that Brendon


    only had room in his heart for her and not get caught up with Shannon.


    If that was the case, they might as well just get divorced.


    "What are you thinking about? You''ve been staring off into space," Brendon''s voice brought her


    back to reality. Ranita shook her head at him and tried to calm herself down.


    Thinking so much right now wasn''t going to do any good. It would be better if they went home and


    talked face-to-face instead. If they really weren''t getting divorced anymore, she wanted to tell


    Brendon about the pregnancy too. After all, he had every right to know as the father of the child.

 Chapter 251 What CanT He Hear?

    Chapter 251 What Can''T He Hear?


    Chapter 251 What Can''t He Hear?


    "Mr. Stuart, you''re here!" The waiter greeted him with a smile and quickly went to fetch the owner of


    the store.


    The owner''s surname was Garrison, a middle-aged man who exuded an air of elegance in his long


    robe that matched the decor of the store perfectly.


    Cooper Garrison came out holding a brocade box and handed it over to Brendon. "Mr. Stuart, this is


    what you wanted. Take a look."


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


    Brendon opened it and saw a blue-and-white plum vase inside, which he knew was very expensive


    at first nce.


    "What do you think?" Brendon handed it to Ranita, who didn''t know much about antiques but could


    only smile and say, "It looks like an independent beauty from another world. I can''t say much more."


    Cooper chuckled and gave Ranita a thumbs up. "Mrs. Stuart, your metaphor is perfect!"


    Brendon seemed satisfied with the purchase as he put away the box for Cooper to wrap up.


    Ranita nced at the credit card bill. It had seven digits... it was indeed very expensive! But


    considering that they were giving this gift to the Old Mr. Webster, they couldn''t be too stingy.


    Gifts among wealthy people were always reciprocal: if you gave someone an seven-digit vase


    today, they might give you something worth eight digits tomorrow - as long as one didn''t lose out in


    any way.


    In any case, Ranita couldn''t afford an seven-digit vase but she did find something within her budget


    - a set of calligraphy brushes inkstone, which represented her sincerity well enough. She asked


    Cooper to wrap them up too.


    "I''ll..." Brendon handed over his credit card but Ranita stopped him, "It''s my gift for the Old Mr.


    Webster. Let me pay."


    "What difference does it make between us?" Brendon insisted.


    Cooper took the bank card tactfully, and after swiping it said with a grin, "Mrs. Stuart, you should


    always let men pay when outside!"


    After exchanging pleasantries, Brendon took Ranita home. But just when they got downstairs,


    surprisingly Chris appeared!


    "Brendon, I want to talk to Ranita about something important. Is that okay?" Chris happened upon


    them by chance on his way somewhere else. Brenden wasn''t pleased, "Can''t you say whatever


    needs saying in front of me?"


    Chris couldn''t helpughing at how jealous Brendon sounded before replying, "It really is quite


    important. Ranita, may I have word with you privately?"


    Ranita nodded, and followed Chris some distance away. She asked him curiously, "Why did you


    suddenly ask for me? Is there anything important going on?"


    "Didn''t you ask me to keep an eye out for a sapphire ne before? My friend happens to have


    one and is willing to sell it," said Chris.


    Ranita''s face lit up at the news. "Really? Can you take me to see it?"


    "I just wanted to ask when you''re free. I want to invite you over to her ce so we can check it out


    together. If you like it, we can buy it from her. If not, I''ll help you find something else."


    Chris was reliable in his actions! Ranita nodded and asked with a smile, "Okay! When should we


    go?"


    "Do you have time tonight?"


    "Tonight?" Ranita looked at Brendon and hesitated before asking, "Tonight might not work. Can we


    do tomorrow instead?"


    "She only has time tomorrow afternoon for lunch if that works for us."


    The person who could sell an expensive sapphire ne probably came from a wealthy family


    with many things going on; they couldn''t keep them waiting forever.


    "Alright then, let''s meet tomorrow at noon," said Ranita after pausing briefly before adding another


    smile. "Thank you. Mr. Webster."


    "Don''t mention it!" Chris noticed that Ranita seemed much happier today as he added with concern,


    "You look better now. Take care of yourself."

 Chapter 252 Do You Dare?

    Chapter 252 Do You Dare?


    Chapter 252 Do You Dare?


    Ranita was feeling warm and fuzzy inside.


    "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Webster. I will rest well," she said.


    "Oh, by the way..." Chris ran to the car and brought out a bouquet of roses from the back seat. He


    handed it to Ranita without any pressure, despite Brendon''s dark gaze. "Congrattions on being


    discharged from the hospital. Stay safe and healthy."


    What woman doesn''t like beautiful flowers?


    Ranita considered herself amon person and epted them with ease. She smiled at Chris with


    her eyes curved in delight, her face blooming like a flower.


    Brendon couldn''t hold back anymore; he took three steps forward and snatched away the roses


    from Ranita''s grasp. He red at her furiously while grinding his teeth together, "Do you dare


    ept them?"


    "Why can''t I ept them? I will!" Ranita snatched back the bouquet of roses and hugged it tightly


    against her chest while smiling brightly with sparkling eyes, "The flowers are so pretty! Thank you,


    Mr. Webster! See you tomorrow."


    "See you tomorrow? Where are you going tomorrow?" Brendon asked curiously while Chris waved


    his hand dismissively, "Ranita doesn''t want to tell you! I have something else to do first!"


    Chris got into his car and drove off as he waved goodbye.


    Ranita also waved goodbye but was pulled back by Brendon''s grip on her arm.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Ranita! Do you think that I''m dead or something? You dare flirt with my friend right in front of me?


    You..." Brendon didn''t finish speaking before soft hands covered his mouth.


    "I just epted a bouquet of flowers, so what? You can send them to Shannon, but others can''t


    send them to me?" Ranita said, like an angry cat, showing her teeth and staring at him with her


    beautiful eyes.


    Unconsciously charming.


    Brendon grabbed her hand and moved it away, his hand pressed against her waist, directly pressing


    her against his chest, and he asked thoughtfully, "Are you jealous?"


    "Huh?" Ranita pushed him away, feeling pricked at the heart, her ears turning red with annoyance,


    "I am definitely not jealous!"


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Speak up already! You''re scaring me!


    "Go Home!" Brendon said nothing as he pulled her into the elevator, opened the door, and threw the


    rose in her arms on the table with one hand and held her with the other, trapping her in the hallway


    closet.


    The setting sun made the apartment seem warm and quiet.


    A warm yellow spot of light fell on his shoulder, forming a rose-like shape of a sunset. It was


    beautiful. Ranita looked at the man with a pounding heart and asked hoarsely, "Brendon, what are


    you doing?"


    Brenden felt very angry inside...


    His heart felt like it had been inted by something, and it was sore and ufortable.


    How could this woman be so flirtatious with Chris?


    "I want to kiss you." As soon as the words left his mouth, his lips pressed against hers.


    Their lips were sore from piercing, teeth shing against each other.


    Ranita was in pain and her heart was also in a mess.


    Brendon was so bad, he used such despicable means to win. Ranita was kissed so hard that she


    couldn''t catch her breath, and she wanted to be angry but couldn''t express it, so she just red at


    him in frustration.


    Brendon held onto her waist, his Adam''s apple bobbing.


    "Will you dare to do it again in the future? Huh?" The tone was low and there was a hint of teeth-


    gritting threat. The next second, he firmly grasped her waist again.


    Ranita''s forehead turned dizzy with anger, "I didn''t do anything, did I..."


    Why was this bastard so unreasonable?!


    "Still talking tough?"


    Brendon kissed her again.


    When Brendon reached out to hug her, she dodged away.


    "Brendon!" Ranita lightly kicked him and her eyes were still red. She said, "Tonight you can sleep on


    the floor!"


    Brendon grabbed her ankle with his backhand and leaned in close to her ear, asking with a kiss,


    "Will you dare again in the future?"


    Ranita''s face turned even redder.


    This stinky rascal.

 Chapter 253 Will Dare Next Time

    Chapter 253 Will Dare Next Time


    Chapter 253 Will Dare Next Time


    Ranita was tidying up her room, sweating as she threw the sheets into the washing machine. Caleb


    arrived with some files and takeout just in time to meet her.


    "Miss Bowman, how have you beentely?" Caleb greeted Ranita.


    "I''m doing well, thank you Caleb," Ranita replied politely.


    "No problem at all. You and Mr. Stuart should eat first while I put these files in the study," said


    Caleb, who had been here several times before and knew his way around well enough to leave


    without a fuss.


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


    The atmosphere at the dining table was awkward. Ranita chewed on a piece of chicken with an


    annoyed expression while Brendon ate elegantly but quickly with satisfied eyes.


    "Are you still mad?" Brendon offered to serve Ranita some food but she blocked him off with her


    fork saying "No thanks, I''ll do it myself."


    Brendon''s lips curved into a smile. Angry Ranita was much cuter than before.


    "Are you really angry? I apologize sincerely," he said apologetically.


    "Hmph! What did you do wrong?" Ranita didn''t even want to think about it anymore; she just didn''t


    want Brendon rolling around on their bed soaking wet again likest time!


    "Don''t worry. It''ll be dry soon enough. Don''t be mad!" Brendon served her some mushrooms saying,


    "I won''t do it again next time."


    Men''s words are unreliable! There wasn''t even a hint of apology on Brendon''s face. Instead, there


    were five big words that read "I dare do it again."


    Ranita gritted her teeth and hummed in response.


    Brendon served her another vegetable dish asking, "What did Chris say to you?"


    "I''m not telling!" She pouted angrily, ignoring himpletely.


    Brendon moved closer and lightly bumped his leg against hers under the table.


    Ranita shifted away slightly.


    Brendon moved closer again swaying his legs against hers under the table like kids ying games.


    How childish!


    But surprisingly this kind of interaction made Ranita feel happy inside - something that would never


    have happened before between them - small happiness can make one bubble over with joy


    sometimes!


    She bit down hard on the vegetables that Brenden had given, her cheeks bulging out as she spoke,


    "It''s nothing really... tomorrow afternoon we''re going for... business talks."


    Buying things could also count as business, right?!


    "Why are you taking private work when haven''t officially left Stuart Corp yet? And besides Kurima is


    so big why must help him..."ined Brendon feeling frustrated by this news from Ranita.


    "There''s money to be made, whose money isn''t worth making?" Ranita said as Brendon hooked his


    arm around her shoulder and gazed deeply into her eyes. "Ranita, do you want me to kiss you?"


    "What are you saying?" Ranita blushed and gave him a sideways nce.


    Brendon squeezed her waist with one hand and lowered his voice to hum in her ear. "Then why not


    dare it?"


    Ranita remembered their recent intimacy in bed.


    When this man was unreasonable, he could be really domineering. If she really opposed him, she


    would probably provoke him.


    After spending a few years with Brendon, Ranita knew how to go along with him the best.


    "It hurts so much! Don''t pinch my flesh!" Pausing for a moment, Ranita turned away from his face. "I


    only go to talk business with Mr. Webster. We don''t have any other close rtionship. Please stop


    being ridiculous."


    "He wants to pursue you," Brendon sneered.


    "Don''t talk nonsense!" Ranita hit him in anger. "Mr. Webster is not that bored."


    Brendon''s joke had gone too far; she was Brendon''s wife after all, and Chris was just his friend -


    how could he possibly pursue her?


    Brendon bared his teeth and pinched her fingers tightly, "Then why did he send flowers for you?"


    "I didn''t know your rtionships were so good with everyone!" The sarcastic tone made Ranita want


    to hit him again.

 Chapter 254 Oh, How Humble We Are

    Chapter 254 Oh, How Humble We Are


    Chapter 254 Oh, How Humble We Are


    "I''ll call him and help him find another interpreter. You need to rest at home and not work!"


    Ranita grumbled, "If you don''t like it, I''ll keep my distance from them in the future. But... let me go


    this time."


    "Brendon..." Ranita''s eyes were watery and round, looking at Brendon like a cat that made his heart


    itch.


    "Just this once, okay?" Ranita exined after pausing for a moment. "It won''t be hard for me. I''ll


    take care of myself and won''t tire myself out."


    As she spoke, Ranita remembered that women who acted cute had an easier life. So she put on a


    pitiful look with a soft voice humming, "Brendon..."


    Her voice was gentle and sweet.


    Brendon shuddered when he heard her voice, feeling his hand on her waist getting warmer.


    Clearing his throat, Brendon let go of her and continued eating.


    After some time passed in silence between them at the table, Brendon suddenly said, "Ranita... you


    don''t like Shannon being too close to me. I will talk to her about it and handle it."


    The sound of a pin dropping could be heard in the dining room.


    For a while, Ranita put down her fork and looked seriously at Brendon. Whenever Shannon was


    mentioned between them, there was always an underlying tension.


    Ranita''s heart felt like it had a heavy stone tied to it, sinking under the unbearable weight.


    "How do you want to handle it?" She paused before asking again, "Have you slept with her?"


    After asking, Ranita realized that her heartache was making it hard for her to breathe.


    Ranita had wanted to ask for a long time, but she didn''t dare. Like an ostrich, she hid her head,


    refusing to listen or see, thinking that the matter would pass.


    However, to her surprise, not only did it not pass, but it also festered like a festering sore.


    Scratching the surface revealed the raw and painful truth beneath.


    "Ranita¡­I''m not sure," Brendon hesitated as he recalled how he fell into temptation as if he was


    dreaming.


    He remembered having someone beside him while sleeping but waking up alone instead.


    His hesitation only made Ranita lose courage even more.


    She was too scared to hear what answer mighte out so she decided, "Forget about it! Let''s not


    talk about this anymore."


    How pathetic was she? As long as he didn''t divorce her then she would pretend nothing happened!


    "Ranita!" Brendon grabbed hold of her hand noticing how slightly trembling they were before


    apologizing softly saying, "I will handle things quickly. Sorry!"


    With only an "Mm" sounding from Ranita''s lips did their conversation end there.


    Just then, Ranita''s phone rang. It was sitting on the dining table and when Brendon saw the caller


    ID read "Brother," his face turned dark. "Why is he calling you again?"


    "I''ll take this call," Ranita said as she grabbed her phone and headed to the study.


    "Hey, brother. Why are you calling me at this hour? Have you eaten yet?" Ranita lowered her voice,


    sounding very gentle.


    Jedidiah chuckled softly. "I have already eaten. What about you?"


    "I''ve had dinner too." After a pause, Ranita took the initiative to say, "I''m doing welltely and there''s


    no need for you to worry."


    "Don''t I always worry about you? You haven''t called me in days and your phone is always off. What


    have you been up to?"


    Ranita brushed it off with a vague answer, "Just busy with work."


    In truth, she hadn''t kept in touch with Jedidiah much over the years so he didn''t think much of not


    hearing from her for a while; he thought maybe she was just throwing a tantrum.


    "Well... busy or not, take care of yourself," Jedidiah sighed dejectedly before adding. "I just wish we


    could keep in touch more often."


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


    Ranita felt uneasy inside but nodded anyway, "Sure thing. I''ll try my best... and sorry for making you


    worry." Her voice was soft and full of affection.


    Brendon listened outside the door feeling like his heart had been squeezed by lemons ¨C sour as


    can be!

 Chapter 255 Sadness

    Chapter 255 Sadness


    Chapter 255 Sadness


    Ranita was exhausted and slept soundly through the night. When she woke up, Brendon had


    already left for work. She got up, washed up, and had breakfast. Just as she took a few bites, the


    doorbell rang.


    Looking through the peephole, Ranita saw Carl standing outside.


    "What are you doing here?" Ranita opened the door with no expression on her face. Carl could


    sense that Ranita didn''t wee him and awkwardly handed her some fruit. "Ranita, I just wanted


    toe see you."


    "I''m fine, thank you. You don''t have to bring anything." Ranita refused his peace offering.


    "Ranita..." Carl paused before letting out a long sigh. "I came here to say goodbye to you. I''m


    leaving Kurima tomorrow and I probably won''t being back."


    Carl had been thinking about the past these days.


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    He wasn''t from a wealthy family like Mia or even Ranita but he excelled in school andter made


    something of himself with Ranita''s help until he did something unfaithful at the end.


    Carl felt incredibly guilty about it all.


    "Take care of yourself from now on!" Carl''s voice choked up as his eyes turned red with tears.


    "Also... no matter what you think of me... I still want to apologize on behalf of Mia too."


    "She shouldn''t have done what she did that almost prevented your return home safely," he


    continued. "She haspletely left Kurima now and cut off contact with me so she won''t bother you


    again in the future."


    As she listened to him speak, Ranita felt uneasy about it all. She''d been under Brendon''s protection


    since being found, and he hadn''t told her anything about Mia. So, she didn''t know...


    "What are you saying? Mia caused me not being able to return home... what does that mean?"


    Pausing for a moment, Ranita raised her voice, "Is she involved?"


    Carl was also surprised by this reaction from Ranita but tried his best to exin what little


    information he knew. "You don''t know? Well, I''m not entirely sure either. I only heard Mia crying over


    how sorry she was and wanting to apologize but couldn''t face you again."


    "For more details, you might need to ask the police station," he added sympathetically before


    turning around and leaving.


    Ranita simply nodded numbly before calling Marlon for more information. He briefly exined Mia''s


    role in everything which left Ranita feeling even more confused than ever before.


    "Miss Bowman, if you need any help, just let me know," Marlon paused before continuing. "There


    wasn''t enough evidence against Mia so she''s been released. However, Mr. Stuart kicked her out of


    Kurima and you won''t be seeing her again."


    After ending the call, Ranita''s heart was heavy with disappointment. Her sincere feelings had been


    betrayed and any remaining sympathy for Mia had dissipatedpletely.


    It was a shame that after three years of fighting together asrades, they were now falling apart.


    Ranita remembered a time when they went on a team-building trip and she ended up spraining her


    ankle. It was Mia who carried her down the mountain step by step.


    Back then, their rtionship was so good.


    Ranita''s mood remained subdued even after meeting Christer on. Worriedly he asked her if she


    wasn''t feeling well.


    "I''m fine," replied Ranita with an effort to smile back at him, "Thank you for your concern."


    After pausing for a moment, Ranita asked Chris seriously, "Mr. Webster, if one day someone who


    fought alongside you sold you out, what would you do?"


    Chris drove thoughtfully for a while before answering, "What can I do? I''d have to deal with it!"

 Chapter 256 Enlightenment

    Chapter 256 Enlightenment


    Chapter 256 Enlightenment


    "Ah? Is that it?"


    "Well, what else can you do?" Chris nced at her and saw Ranita hesitatingly, speaking up, "I


    thought someone as capable as you would have a special way of dealing with this."


    "I''m only human. When faced with emotional pain like this, I also feel unhappy and sad. But even if


    I''m sad, I''ll handle it the way I should."


    "On the long road of life, how many people can walk to the end together?"


    Ranita nodded and chuckled, "Have you ever experienced something like this before?"


    "Not yet!" Chris paused for a moment before asking, "Is it about your studio? I heard your other two


    partners left."


    "Yes! I sold my studio," Ranita puffed out her cheeks but quickly cheered up. "But I''ll keep working


    hard!"


    "Aren''t you leaving Stuart''s Corp soon? How about signing your new studio to mypany in the


    future?"


    Ranita didn''t know what to say for now.


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon said he wouldn''t divorce anymore but until Shannon''s situation was resolved, there won''t


    be any follow-up. For now, Ranita could only take one step at a time.


    Instead of immediately agreeing or declining his offer, she said, "If you need any help, just let me


    know. Even if I don''t sign with yourpany, I will still help out."


    In fact, Ranita preferred doing business under her own name in the future. She was quite famous in


    trantion circles.


    However, she might have to work harder and earn less money if she didn''t sign with bigpanies.


    As they spoke, the car arrived at a vi area.


    After entering through the gate, Chris turned left and right familiarly until he parked in front of a vi.


    He signaled for Ranita to get off then rang the doorbell.


    The housekeeper opened the door and led them inside.


    "Ah! Chris, you finally came! Come on in!" The wealthy woman who greeted them had an ample


    figure, a peaceful expression, and seemed easy-going.


    The woman looked at Ranita more happily than before, and struck up conversation, "You must be


    Ranita that Chris mentioned, right? Oh my goodness, your face is so young-looking!"


    Ranita felt embarrassed by all thesepliments.


    "Thank you... for your kind words," she looked over at Chris who immediately introduced her, "You


    can call her Kora."


    "Kora, it''s nice to meet you. You look so friendly, it''s like seeing my own aunt," Ranita said. She had


    a kind aunt at Bowman''s Mansion who looked just like Kora - gentle and always smiling.


    "You have such a sweet mouth! I really like that!"


    Kora pulled Ranita down to sit and warmly asked the maid to bring tea. Just as she was about to


    ask more questions, Chris spoke up in a serious tone, "Kora, let''s talk business first."


    Ranita was taken aback by his directness.


    But Koraughed heartily and immediately went into her room to fetch a square brocade box.


    "Take a look at this sapphire ne and see if you like it," she said.


    Ranita wasn''t very good at judging these things, but Chris exined, "This sapphire was auctioned


    off ten years ago in Europe. It''s genuine."


    "I don''t know the price..."


    High-end jewelry can be appreciated with just one nce. Although Ranita didn''t understand much


    about it, she still admired its beauty.


    Her mother... would probably love this sapphire ne too.


    Seeing that Ranita liked it, Kora pped her hands excitedly, "Oh my goodness! We have great


    chemistry together! And since I''m eager to sell this piece quickly... how about 2. 8 ... ah 3 million


    dors?"

 Chapter 257 Poor Acting Skills

    Chapter 257 Poor Acting Skills


    Chapter 257 Poor Acting Skills


    Kora caught Chris giving her a signal and couldn''t tell if she had overpaid or underpaid for the


    ne.


    "3 million? Is that... too little?" The auction where Brendon bought Shannon''s ne had a low


    starting price, but everyone knew it would sell for much higher. And this sapphire in front of them


    looked even better than that one. It was acquired from an auction in Europe ten years ago, and with


    its appreciation over the years, there was no way it could be worth only 3 million!


    "Huh? Too little?" Koraughed. "How could that be! I spent 3 million on this ne when I


    bought it!"


    Ranita chuckled. "Kora, you can''t calcte like that! High-end jewelry holds its value. What you paid


    for ten years ago is definitely worth more now if you were to put it up for auction." This sapphire


    alone would fetch at least 10 million.


    "Oh my goodness, how can we calcte like this? Things sold at auctions are definitely expensive...


    I just like you and don''t want to take advantage of your money," Kora paused before adding.


    "Besides, you''re Chris''s friend. How could I ask for more money from you?"


    Ranita had some money herself and could afford to buy the ne at any price. But the price was


    too low, so she felt embarrassed about epting it and turned to Chris for help, "Mr. Webster..."


    In the end, with Chris''s mediation skills, they agreed on apromise price of 6 million.


    Ranita found Kora amazing - she wanted to give her money but wouldn''t ept it! And she didn''t


    seem desperate for cash either.


    Halfway through dinner Ranita went to use the restroom.


    Kora grabbed onto Chris as soon as Ranita left, "What''s wrong with you?! How can you let her


    spend 6 million?"


    "Auntie, what are you talking about?! Your acting skills are terrible!" Chris shook his head in


    disbelief.


    "What do you mean my acting is bad? If I were an actress, then nobody else would deserve Best


    Actress except me!" After pausing briefly, Kora sarcastically added, "But seriously though why did


    we have to go through all these hoops just so you could give away your gift?"


    "But that girl looks really pretty and has a good personality. I like her."


    Chris liked her too but knew she wasn''t interested in him.


    "Forget about it. She likes someone else." One sentence made Kora widen her eyes incredulously,


    "Are You kidding me? You haven''t even won over your own love interest yet here you are making


    me pay out my life savings?"


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    Chris wished he could shut her mouth right then and there.


    He had originally nned to give it directly to Ranita, but Kora insisted on seeing the real person,


    which led to this scene.


    "Kora, don''t you think she looks familiar?"


    "Now that you mention it, she does." Kora thought for a moment but couldn''te up with anything


    and asked, "I can''t remember! If I had seen such a beautiful girl before, I would definitely


    remember."


    Chris was even more speechless.


    "She''s from Brendon''s family," Chris said with a bit of depression in his heart.


    Kora was startled. "Ah? It''s her? Ranita... Oh! No wonder the name sounded so familiar!"


    Kora pped her thigh and smiled happily. "Chris, no need to worry. Last time I yed mahjong


    with Amiya, she said Brendon divorced his previous wife and is preparing for an alliance with the


    Murphy family."


    "Isn''t this opportunitying right at us?! Seize it!"


    Chris looked at Kora hesitantly without speaking and just gestured for her to be careful not to say


    anything wrong in front of Ranita.


    From afar, Kora saw Ranitaing back and secretly gave an OK gesture.

 Chapter 258 Nausea

    Chapter 258 Nausea


    Chapter 258 Nausea


    "Ranita, why don''t you stay here for lunch?" Kora warmly invited Ranita and she couldn''t refuse the


    offer.


    Kora was too enthusiastic towards her, constantly serving her food and asking about her hometown,


    education background, likes and dislikes...


    Ranita was overwhelmed.


    "Mr. Webster, Kora is really too friendly!" Ranita whispered to Chris.


    Chris remained calm and said, "These wealthy women have boring lives."


    He was right!


    These wealthy women had plenty of money but were bored. They had been here for so long but


    only Kora stayed with them all the time. It must be lonely for her.


    Ranita had a gentle personality and even though she found it hard to resist Kora''s enthusiasm, she


    did not show any impatience towards her. Instead they chatted about everything under the sun.


    Eventually they talked about trantion which was Ranita''s forte and the conversation continued on


    that topic.


    Time flew by unnoticed as Chris prepared to leave with Ranita when they met Shannon at the door!


    Shannon stood at the entrance of the opposite vi, about to enter. When she suddenly noticed


    Ranita, her eyes lit up. "Ranita! What are you doing here?" she eximed.


    She then looked at Chris, "Hello Chris!"


    Chris nodded indifferently, "We still have things to do so we''ll leave now. See you next time."


    "Chris," Shannon said slyly while looking at him directly in his eyes, "I remember this is your aunt''s


    house? You never took me inside before but your rtionship with Ranita seems really good!" She


    sounded like an insincere person who could switch between being nice or nasty easily.


    Shannon innocently looked at Ranita.


    Ranita felt nauseated at the sight of her and suppressed her disgust as she said, "Miss Murphy,


    please step aside. We have something important to attend to, so please don''t block our way."


    "Ranita, why do you always have this attitude towards me? Have I done something wrong again? I


    just said a couple of things," Shannon paused, biting her lip with a pitiful look. "You''re being so


    unfair."


    Who was being unfair?


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Before Ranita could speak, Chris intervened, calmly saying, "Shannon, we really have something to


    take care of. If you have something to say, just say it quickly."


    "If there''s nothing else to say, we''ll leave first."


    With that, Chris opened the car door and shielded Ranita as she got in. Shannon felt embarrassed


    and even more aggrieved. She stopped Chris and gritted her teeth, saying, "Chris, why are you so


    good to Ranita? Do you know she''s not nning to divorce Brendon anymore?"


    Chris furrowed his brows.


    "And then?"


    "If she doesn''t divorce, she''s still a married woman. But the way she''s stringing you along, don''t you


    think it''s too much?"


    Thankfully, they were separated by the car window. Otherwise, Ranita would havee out and


    thrown curses at her. Chris was ufortable and frowned. "Shannon, you misunderstood. Ranita


    and I are just friends. Whether or not she divorces Brendon is their business."


    "Also, if she really doesn''t divorce Brendon, then Brendon is a married man. There''s something I''ve


    been wanting to advise you for a long time now: even though you and Brendon have been ying


    together since childhood and have good feelings towards each other, but after all we''re adults now.


    Sometimes we need to set boundaries when necessary."


    Then Chris got into the driver''s seat without giving Shannon another nce.


    Shannon was already in a good mood before being scolded again. Her teeth were clenched with


    anger. She forced herself to calm down because she couldn''t give up - she had to find a way for


    Brendon to divorce Ranita!


    She was Mrs. Stuart! She had gave away this position for three years already- there was no way


    that she would let it go!

 Chapter 259 Citrus Flavor

    Chapter 259 Citrus vor


    Chapter 259 Citrus vor


    Shannon stormed into the opposite vi, crying out as she threw herself onto Carlee, "Carlee!"


    Carlee had always liked Shannon and doted on her. Seeing her cry, she immediately asked with


    concern, "What''s wrong? Who made you angry? Tell me everything and I''ll help you."


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Really?" Shannon bit her lip and grabbed Carlee''s hand. "Then please help me..."


    ...


    Ranita touched the brocade box, feeling a little embarrassed as she said, "I''m sorry for letting you


    see what happened earlier."


    "I know Shannon''s personality," Chris smiled and suddenly said, "Sorry for not telling you earlier."


    "In fact, Kora is my aunt. She really did intend to give up that ne. I just didn''t tell you because


    I was afraid it would make you feel ufortable," Chris exined before adding. "My aunt


    originally nned to sell it to you at cost because she considers you a friend and doesn''t want to


    profit from your money."


    Kora was a lovely person.


    Ranita really liked her. "Thank Kora for me. We still need to settle ounts! How can 3 million now


    bepared with 3 million ten years ago! And thank you too."


    Chris received his good karma card but pursed his lips.


    "Where are we going this afternoon? Can I take you there?" he asked before Ranita''s phone rang -


    Brendon calling.


    "Hello!"


    "You need toe back to thepany. HR has arranged an interview with someone who will


    rece your position. You should be present," Brendon spoke in a cold tone when he worked.


    Ranita was about to leave Stuart''s Corp soon so choosing a recement candidate was necessary.


    She nodded, "Okay, what time?"


    "One hourter," Brendon replied then asked, "Where are you now?"


    "I''m near Wilwards Vi Area," Ranita paused then continued. "I''ll go over there now so maybe half


    an hourter."


    Brendon fell silent for several seconds before asking, "Aren''t you discussing business with Chris?


    Why did you go to Wilwards Vi Area?" He paused again then added, "I''ll have my driver pick you


    up."


    "No need, Mr. Webster is giving me a ride. I''ll be there soon. Gotta go." Ranita hung up the phone,


    but before she could speak, Chris smiled and said, "Are you going to Stuart''s Corp? I''ll drive you


    there."


    As they got off the car, Chris reminded her casually, "This weekend is my grandpa''s birthday


    banquet. Don''t forgete together with Brendon."


    When Ranita arrived at the office, Brendon was hunched over his desk, poring over documents with


    a serious and solemn expression. They say that men who work diligently are the most attractive,


    and Brendon was no exception.


    Sometimes Ranita would reflect on whether she was too shallow for being so devoted to this face.


    "Busy?" Ranita knocked on the door. "Can Ie in?"


    "Come in. Have a seat first." Brendon nced at her and gestured towards the couch before


    returning to his files. He worked much faster now, signing papers with swift strokes.


    Ranita noticed a takeout box on his desk that hadn''t been opened yet.


    "Haven''t you had lunch yet?"


    "Mm... too busy... been in meetings all morning. Just finished up some paperwork." Brendon replied


    nonchntly as he walked over to sit beside her. "Keep mepany while I eat."


    Ranita touched the takeout box which had already gone cold.


    "It''s gotten cold... let me microwave it for you while you drink some water."


    There was a microwave in the pantry, so Ranita put the food inside and turned around only to bump


    into Brendon who had followed her there.


    "Why did you follow me here?"


    Brendon stood next to her so close that he almost pressed against her back. He caught a whiff of


    faint citrus perfume from her body which made him feel extremely happy.

 Chapter 260 Waist Is Not Even As Big As His Palm

    Chapter 260 Waist Is Not Even As Big As His Palm


    Chapter 260 Waist Is Not Even as Big as His Palm


    From N?velDrama.Org.


    "Come over and have a cup of coffee. What do you want to drink?" Brendon asked in a casual tone.


    For many days now, they had been living together like this, side by side in normalcy and fighting


    alongside each other.


    Ranita didn''t find this life boring. Although she was always anxious inside, she was content. She


    turned her head and her gaze fell on the man''s tie.


    "Your tie is crooked," Ranita helped him straighten it out and said calmly. "Just in water is fine."


    Ranita waited for the lunch box while Brendon made coffee and poured water for her. No one spoke


    but it wasforting and satisfying.


    Brendon ate his lunch while Ranita flipped through magazines asionally ncing at Brendon.


    "You''ve looked at me 18 times already. Is there something you want to say?" Brendon stopped


    eating with chopsticks raised, arching an eyebrow as he asked Ranita.


    Caught red-handed, Ranita''s ears turned slightly red.


    She did want to talk about the child but she felt that it wasn''t appropriate now since they still had


    work to do, not to mention the unresolved issue between him and Shannon. Bringing up the topic of


    children would only make things moreplicated.


    Perhaps Ranitacked confidence too.


    "I haven''t!" Ranita didn''t want to admit anything, "How would I know if you''re looking at me if I don''t


    look back?"


    She argued forcefully without reason.


    Brendon chuckled softly in his throat as he looked at her with teasing and mocking expression, "If


    you really wanted to look, then just look openly. I won''t scold you."


    His voice was gentle which she never expected before.


    Ranita felt extremely nervous but her heart was eager; like a moth drawn irresistibly towards the


    me of tenderness without any resistance whatsoever from within herself.


    "Is that so?" Her eyes curved into a happy smile as she asked excitedly.


    "Of course!" Brendon held onto her hand while packing up the lunch boxes saying, "I''ll finish my


    work today then we can go out for two days together. Rx our minds."


    Now Ranita''s heart almost flew away from its ce!


    "Where are we going? You''re going out with me?" She never thought that Brendon would take the


    initiative to suggest going out together which really surprised her!


    "Do you have any ce in mind?" Of course there were! So many ces where she wanted to go


    with him!


    "What ce do you want us to go?" She wished that she could immediately pull out her phone


    check where they could go but when facing Brendon, she restrained herself because what ces


    she wanted might not be what he wanted too.


    She was truly happy.


    Her eyes curved like a crescent moon, sparkling with starlight. Her delicate features came to life as


    she rxed her expression.


    Like a child receiving her favorite toy or eating a sweet lollipop.


    "Knock knock!" Julia entered the room and interrupted their conversation. "Mr. Stuart... Mr. Ramos


    is waiting in the conference room, are you ready to go?"


    Afterwards, Julia nodded at Ranita again and said, "Miss Bowman, good afternoon."


    As the matter at hand was more important, they didn''t continue discussing the topic of going out to


    y, but instead shifted the conversation back to the interview.


    As they walked, Brendon spoke to Ranita, "The HR department has already conducted two rounds


    of interviews, and the candidate has excellent qualifications in all aspects. However, since it''s the


    position you once took over, I thought it would be best for you to have a look as well."


    After pausing for several seconds, Brendon stopped and looked at Ranita, "Actually, there''s no


    reason for you to leave Stuart''s Corp now."


    They weren''t getting divorced after all.


    Everything would continue as before.


    Ranita shook her head, "No thanks, I just want some rest. Signing another contract with Stuart''s


    Corp would be too busy."


    "That makes sense," Brendon said with a smile before leaning closer and whispering into her ear.


    "You''ve lost so much weighttely... Your waist is smaller than my palm. I''m afraid it''ll snap in half."

 Chapter 261 Vincent

    Chapter 261 Vincent


    Chapter 261 Vincent


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Breath hot and heavy, teasing her ear.


    Ranita''s heart was racing, and she couldn''t help but re at him when he teased her. "What are you


    talking about?"


    Brendon looked down at her blushing ears with pleasure, thinking to himself that Ranita was such a


    cute little thing.


    "I said what?" Brendon couldn''t resist teasing her again.


    "You..." Ranita bit her lip, cheeks turning pink as well.


    Seeing that the little kitten was about to explode in anger, Brendon held back his mischievous


    thoughts and spoke softly. "I just wanted to say that you really need some rest. What are you


    thinking about all the time, Ranita?"


    "Brendon!" Ranita stopped in her tracks and stomped on his foot hard!


    Why was this guy so annoying?


    Although she felt angry inside, there was also a sweet feeling of happiness mixed in as well.


    Brendon didn''t get mad after being stepped on. Instead, he took two quick steps forward as if


    nothing had happened and walked side by side with Ranita. He felt an adolescent impulse stirring


    within him.


    Julia walked ahead and caught a glimpse of their interaction, feeling a mix of emotions. She


    somewhat stiffly pushed open the door to the meeting room and said, "Pleasee in."


    Julia had been at Stuart''s Corp for many years. She had good abilities and was beautiful, but she


    couldn''t capture Brendon''s attention.


    Previously, Julia would always look at Ranita with a mocking gaze.


    Now, seeing a different side of Brendon, she felt like a joke herself. She felt jealous and envious,


    realizing that at least Ranita was his wife.


    Brendon entered the room ahead of them, with Ranita following behind. Julia lowered her gaze,


    unable to hold back her emotions, and subtly adjusted her high heels forward.


    Unaware of the situation, Ranita stumbled and tripped, rushing forward.


    "Be careful!" In an instant, Ranita''s arm was grabbed, pulling her into someone''s embrace with a


    thud. Startled, Ranita looked at Vincent, who had suddenly appeared.


    How did he end up here?


    "Would you please let go?!" At that moment, Brendon''s cold voice came through. Ranita realized


    what had happened, regained her bnce, and smiled at Vincent. "Thank you for earlier. But


    Vincent, what brings you here?"


    "I came for an interview," Vincent replied in a refined manner. His slowed-down speech made his


    voice even more soothing and pleasant to listen to.


    Ranita was surprised. Who could have predicted such a coincidence?


    "But didn''t you say you were staying at the school to teach? Howe..."


    "The school doesn''t have many sses, so I came here to work part-time!" Vincent paused before


    adding, "I didn''t expect you toe today too."


    As Brendon listened to the two of them chatting like old friends, his eyes darkened and his body


    temperature dropped.


    "Are you Mr. Ramos who''s interviewing me today?" Brendon stepped forward as his wife ignored


    him and partially blocked Ranita. "I''m Brendon."


    "Do you know each other?"


    "Mr. Ramos is also a graduate of Kurima Foreign Studies University," Ranita exined briefly, while


    Vincent introduced himself to Brendon, "Mr. Stuart, I''ve heard your name before. I''m Vincent. I''ve


    met Ranita a few times before and we''re friends."


    "Alright, let''s not chat anymore. I''m in a hurry," Brendon said coldly.


    Brendon sat next to Ranita while Vincent sat on the other side. As he looked through Vincent''s


    resume which was even more impressive than Ranita''s, he couldn''t help but feel annoyed by how


    close he seemed with her.


    "You used to work at the Department of Trantion and Interpretation which was pretty good over


    there. Why did you leave?" Brendon asked nonchntly with his chin resting on his hand.

 Chapter 262 DonT Try To Hurt Her

    Chapter 262 Don''T Try To Hurt Her


    Chapter 262 Don''t Try to Hurt Her


    Vincent replied with a few words, but his gaze was mostly on Ranita. As males havemon traits


    in some areas, Brendon quickly noticed that Vincent''s eyes on Ranita were not quite right.


    "Mr. Ramos, it seems like you''re very interested in my... trantor, Ranita," Brendon tapped the


    table with his fingers and held onto Ranita''s hand under the table.


    Ranita tried to shake it off but he held onto her tighter and rubbed her fingertips while resting his


    hand on her thigh.


    Ranita''s heart raced to her throat and half of her eyes turned red as she red at Brendon. She


    was both delicate and beautiful which made Brendon want to hold onto her tightly so that Vincent


    wouldn''t look at her again.


    Vincent sat across from them feeling frustrated as he watched Ranita''s shy expression. Was


    Brendon the person that she said she liked?


    "Mr. Stuart, you''re too imposing so I had no choice but to look at my junior, Ranita. Sorry about


    that," Vincent smiled at Ranita without losingposure or elegance; he even nced over at


    Brendon provocatively.


    A male lion who marks its territory usually fights back when provoked.


    "Ranita, can you make me a cup of coffee? I want you to brew it yourself," Brendon dismissed


    Ranita who felt like something wasn''t right with the atmosphere and said softly, "Mr. Stuart, Vincent


    is excellent. There won''t be any problem if he takes over my work..."


    Brendon became even more unhappy when this bad woman helped speak up for Vincent!


    "Don''t worry. I won''t give Mr. Ramos a hard time." Saying this, Brenden suddenly pulled on Ranita''s


    shoulder causing him to lean forward until their noses almost touched...


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


    Ranita''s heart beat wildly - could it be possible that he wanted to kiss her in front of Vincent?!


    "What happened?" Just as Ranita was about to move away from him, Brenden pressed down on


    Ranita''s shoulders while lightly flicking off some dust from them saying, "There''s some white dust


    here."


    "Ahh... is there? Thank you." Ranita felt embarrassed. What was she thinking just now!? Her face


    burned hotly as she hurried out of the conference room.


    As soon as the door closed behind them, Brenden''s face instantly turned cold, "Mr. Ramos,


    hopefully you won''t have any ideas about Ranita in the future."


    Vincent smiled gently and asked without haste, "Mr. Stuart, may I ask who you are to Ranita? Can


    you make decision for her? This is the first time I''ve heard of a former boss being involved in


    someone''s personal rtionship."


    Every word Vincent spoke hit Brendon''s nerve.


    In fact, Vincent wasn''t the type to persistently pursue something. It was just Brendon''s attitude that


    made him unhappy and caused him to speak out.


    "You have nothing to do with Ranita''s rtionship with me, Mr. Ramos. As for whether or not I can


    handle her personal issues, why don''t you ask her yourself?"


    The favored one always had an air of superiority.


    Vincent knew he had lost this battle; his face turned extremely ugly for the first time.


    "Mr. Ramos, your resume is impressive and your reputation is excellent. You were highly


    rmended by the HR department as a candidate for this position. I believe you are more than


    capable of handling this job."


    Personal matters should not affect work.


    In terms of work ability, Vincent was indeed quite good.


    However, as the winner in this situation, Brendon had a subtle expression of satisfaction on his


    face.


    "Mr. Ramos, wee to Stuart''s Corp."


    Ranita walked in holding coffee just as she heard these words. She handed Brendon his coffee and


    then handed a cup of warm water to Vincent, "Vincent, congrattions on joining Stuart''s Corp! If


    there is anything unclear about handing over work tasks, please feel free to ask me."


    Upon hearing this statement from Ranita again, Brendon''s face turned dark once more.

 Chapter 263 Kissing And Acting Like Thieves

    Chapter 263 Kissing And Acting Like Thieves


    Chapter 263 Kissing and Acting Like Thieves


    "Thank you, Ranita!" Vincent smiled gently and shook hands with Ranita. "I wish you all the best in


    your future endeavors."


    The handshake was brief, but Brendon''s heart was pounding.


    Why were their hands still sped together? And why was that woman, Ranita, smiling so happily?


    "Ranita...e with me!" Brendon mmed his coffee cup down and pulled Ranita back to the


    office, dragging her into the restroom.


    Water sshed onto her hand as soapthered up with a fragrant scent.


    Brendon grabbed her hand and vigorously rubbed it until it turned red. Irritatedly, he said, "What are


    you doing shaking his hand? Who knows if there are any germs on him! Hurry up and wash your


    hands clean!"


    Ranita couldn''t help but chuckle at Brendon''s unreasonable words.


    "What did Vincent do to offend you? It''s just a handshake as a form of courtesy," she said while


    Brendon washed her hands clean for her before carefully drying them off with a towel.


    Her fingers were slender and fair. Now they had been washed red by water.


    Brendon leaned in close to trap Ranita against the sink. He ced one hand on her waist while


    narrowing his eyes dangerously at her, "Tell me,st time when you went out for dinner, was it


    Vincent?"


    Ranita blinked innocently as she thought about denying it but then heard Brendon say, "I knew it!


    You''re not allowed to get too close to him from now on! Did you not see how he looked at you? Like


    a dog seeing bones!"


    A dog seeing bones?


    What an interesting metaphor!


    Who was the dog here and who was the bone?


    "Brendon, don''t be so unreasonable! I told you we just went out for dinner. There''s nothing special


    between me and Vincent. Besides he isn''t a dog. He is our prideful student of Kurima Foreign


    Studies University! And I''m not some bone either!"


    Ranita pushed against his chest feeling angry that she had even tried reasoning with this barbarian


    man who only became more forceful.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "You''re still defending him?" Brendon became unhappy.


    "You''re beingpletely unreasonable right now! I already told you that I didn''t..." Before she could


    finish speaking though, Brenden kissed her red lips.


    How rude can someone be?


    Whether or not Vincent was like a dog remained unclear to Ranita but one thing for sure - Brendon


    definitely behaved like one.


    Ranita''s back was pressed against the sink, her spine aching from being squeezed. She was both


    embarrassed and angry, wishing she could kick him to death.


    "Brendon! You''re going too far!"


    "Hmm?" Brendon still had his eyes fixed on her with a smug expression.


    Ranita was furious. "Brendon, can''t you just talk to me instead of... kissing me out of nowhere?"


    What was the point in talking to women? If they could be reasoned with, pigs would fly!


    Brendon asked, "Are you still daring enough?"


    Why did he keep asking that? Was this guy out of words or something? Ranita gritted her teeth in


    frustration. "I told you I''m just friends with Vincent!"


    But Brendon continued to kiss her forcefully.


    "Are you still daring enough?" Brendon persisted in his rude and relentless manner. Ranita had no


    choice but to surrender, "No more! No more!"


    "I really have nothing going on with Vincent! Can''t we talk about this like adults?" Ranita gave up


    trying to resist him as Brendon kept kissing her.


    The atmosphere became ambiguous.


    "Knock knock!" Suddenly there came a knocking at the door from outside. "Mr. Stuart, Mrs. Stuart is


    here."


    Mrs. Stuart? Amiya?


    Ranita patted Brendon''s arm and whispered urgently, "Your mom is here!"


    Like two thieves sneaking around together, Brenden chuckled as he stole onest kiss before


    adjusting Ranita''s cor and taking hold of her hand. "Come with me."

 Chapter 264 One Billion Dollars

    Chapter 264 One Billion Dors


    Chapter 264 One Billion Dors


    Ranita didn''t really want to see Amiya. Every time they met, she would make snide remarks and she


    didn''t want to make things difficult for Brendon.


    "... Brendon, why don''t I hide here for a bit?"


    "No need. I want to clear things up with my mom," Brendon paused and looked back at her, "If you


    don''t want to live in Bouldend Mansion anymore, you can stay in the apartment."


    Ranita''s heart was instantly touched.


    Amiya sat in her wheelchair with a man wearing a white suit standing beside her. Ranita had seen


    him before. It was Elliot Adams who used to work for Wyatt before he passed away.


    She greeted them both, "Mrs. Stuart, Mr. Adams."


    Amiya saw her and her face immediately turned dark.


    "Why is she still here?" Amiya sneered at Brendon, "I have important matters to discuss with you


    that shouldn''t be heard by outsiders. Ask her to leave."


    Elliot smiled faintly showing wrinkles on his face, "Mrs. Stuart, Ms. Bowman is also involved in this


    matter so she has the right to stay."


    Amiya''s face grew even darker.


    "Mr. Adams, don''t forget who pays your sry. You better not be ungrateful!"


    Elliot had always been Wyatt''swyer but because Wyatt wasn''t close with Amiya, she held some


    resentment towards Elliot as well.


    "I have always worked under Mr. Wyatt Stuart''s employment so naturally I am working for him. And


    as awyer, I will fulfill my duties," replied Elliot nonchntly.


    This made Amiya even more frustrated.


    "Wyatt is part of the Stuarts. But what does that have anything do with Ranita..."


    "I say it does. Three of you should sit down and talk about this," said Elliot calmly but imposingly


    since he was an elder. Brendon respected him greatly and said, "Mom, let''s sit down and listen what


    Mr. Adam has got to say."


    After everyone sat down, Elliot took out two documents from his bag, "Mr. Stuart, I sent you letters


    earlier, you should know why I''m here today. This is another will left behind by your grandfather. He


    asked me open it three months after he passed away."


    "Mr. Adams, what will?" Amiya furrowed her brow and questioned, "Mr. Adams, didn''t they already


    read Wyatt''s will?"


    "Mrs. Stuart, please calm down," Elliot said as he looked at Amiya. "This is a letter ofmission


    from Mr. Stuart to me. You can take a look." He handed the letter to Amiya and then turned to


    Ranita.


    "Ms. Bowman, you are the key beneficiary in this will," he said with a serious expression on his face.


    "Mr. Stuart deposited some money in a Swiss bank ount before he passed away and left it all to


    you."


    What? All of it was left to her?


    Ranita was shocked as she looked at Elliot with disbelief.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    After the death of Wyatt, Elliot had already publicly distributed most of his assets under his name.


    Most of thepany''s shares went to Brendon while everyone else received something except for


    Ranita.


    "Not possible!" Amiya also thought she heard wrong. "Mr. Adams, you must be confused. Ranita


    isn''t even part of the Stuart family. Why should she receive any inheritance?"


    Ignoring Amiya''s wordspletely, Elliot handed over documents regarding inheritance directly in


    front of Ranita. "Ms. Bowman, Mr. Stuart has left you one billion dors."


    "All you have to do is sign here, and all this wealth belongs solely to you."

 Chapter 265 Envy

    Chapter 265 Envy


    Chapter 265 Envy


    "1 billion! In US dors!"


    Amiya''s anger surged from the bottom of her heart.


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


    "Mr. Adams, this can''t be right! These assets belonged to Wyatt and the Stuart family. There''s no


    way they would have been left to Ranita! Are you sure you''re not mistaken? Besides, it''s been


    almost three months since Wyatt passed away, and I have reason to doubt the authenticity of this


    will."


    When Wyatt first announced his will, aside frompany shares, there wasn''t even 1 billion dor


    left in it. Amiya was puzzled at that time because she knew that the Stuart family had umted


    wealth for generations and especially during Wyatt''s reign as head of household when they were


    always on Forbes'' list of billionaires.


    Amiya was so angry that she couldn''t help but curse in her heart, "That old man hid so much money


    all along and gave it all to an outsider!"


    "Mrs. Stuart, please don''t get upset," Elliot said with a pause before looking at Ranita.


    "Ms. Bowman, the previous will of Mr. Stuart did not leave anything for you, not because he disliked


    you. He wanted me to convey to you that he was afraid that after his death, you might be mistreated


    or driven away, fearing... that his grandson might do something foolish. Therefore, he instructed me


    to find you three monthster. If you have divorced Mr. Brendon by then, he wanted me to inform


    you separately that the entire one billion dors will be inherited solely by you."


    Ranita covered her mouth.


    Her eyes were filled with tears as she felt touched by Wyatt''s care for her - He cared about her


    more than anyone else did in the Stuart family! She wasn''t greedy for money; rather she felt grateful


    for this unique kind of affection shown towards her.


    "A billion dors all given to Ranita? Is Wyatt out of his mind?" Amiya was so angry that she almost


    vomited blood. Brendon and Holly deserved these funds more than anyone else! How could they be


    given away without any relevance whatsoever?


    "Mr. Adams, are you sure Wyatt wrote this will while beingpletely sane? Could it be possible


    that Ranita tricked him into doing so?"


    Amiya''s mind became muddled as she found it hard to believe how ruthless Wyatt had be


    towards their own family members by giving everything away just like that without any consideration


    whatsoever...


    "Mrs. Stuart, I already had his will notarized, you can check it!" Elliot paused before continuing, "But


    I''m not finished yet! If Ms. Bowman leaves the Stuart family, then all of this money goes to her.


    Given that you two are still married, there is an additional condition for Mr. Brendon."


    "After he passed away within two years and you are still married, then the one billion dors will be


    split between the two of you equally. This is Ms. Bowman''s content and you can take a look at it."


    Brendon didn''t bother looking and simply said, "I understand."


    Ranita''s mind was a bit foggy as she read through the document several times before finally


    understanding what was going on. Wyatt really did think about her a lot.


    He knew that once he passed away, she would be taken advantage of.


    "If there are no issues , please sign here," said Elliot.


    Amiya watched as Ranita picked up the pen and became so angry that her face twisted in rage,


    "Ranita! This is money from the Stuart family! How could you have the nerve to take it?"


    "Mom! This belongs to grandpa. He can give it to whoever he wants!" Brendon stopped Amiya from


    interfering.


    Amiya became even angrier, "Brendon! That''s one billion dors we''re talking about here! It''s not


    fixed assets!"


    This amount of money would make anyone envious regardless of who held onto it!

 Chapter 266 Becoming A Rich Woman

    Chapter 266 Bing A Rich Woman


    Chapter 266 Bing a Rich Woman


    "Is your grandfather confused? Are you confused too?" Amiya sneered. "Ranita, dare to sign and


    see what happens!"


    Elliot frowned, his mild expression disappearing as he spoke coldly. "Mrs. Stuart, threatening is


    illegal. Please think twice."


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


    "Illegal? She has taken possession of the Stuart family''s property and I am going to sue her for


    breaking thew!"


    Ranita was hesitant at first but seeing Amiya''s arrogant attitude she quickly signed her name with a


    few strokes of her pen. "Mrs. Stuart, sorry but one cannot refuse an elder."


    "Ranita... you..."


    Brendon stopped Amiya and also signed in front of her.


    Elliot was pleased with their cooperation and said, "I will take care of all follow-up matters and if


    there are any problems, Ms. Bowman, you can call me anytime." He left a business card behind


    before taking the documents with him.


    Brendon personally escorted Amiya out and when they reached the door he said, "Mom, I have


    something to tell you. I don''t n on divorcing Ranita."


    "What?" Today had been enough excitement for Amiya already; she felt dizzy at this news. "If you


    don''t divorce, then what about Shannon? How can that poor girl marry someone else after being so


    pure?"


    At the mention of Shannon, Brendon felt guilty but he didn''t want to lose Ranita either, "Mom, I''ll


    handle things with Shannon... you should go home now!"


    After making a trip in vain, Amiya was so frustrated that she was on the verge of spitting blood. Her


    mood remained sour all the way to Bouldend Mansion. Upon entering, she heard from a servant


    that Shannon was packing up, prompting her to hurry and check.


    "Shannon! What happened? Why are you packing up your things?"


    Shannon had red eyes from crying earlier, "Auntie... I... I just can''t take it anymore! Brendon isn''t


    divorcing Ranita so why should I stay here? I don''t want to be known as someone who ruins other


    people''s marriages by being their third wheel."


    "Auntie, please leave me alone," sobbed Shannon pitifully on the carpeted floor.


    Amiya hated Ranita down into every fiber of her bones right now; wishing she could just strangle


    her directly but Wyatt''s money was still in Ranita''s hands!


    "Shannon, don''t cry! Don''t cry! Brendon likes you very much so he will definitely divorce Ranita


    eventually. There must be some reason why he hasn''t done it yet!"


    As she spoke these words, Amiya recounted everything that had happened today for Shannon''s


    benefit.


    Shannon''s tears stopped as she spoke up for Amiya, "Auntie... Mr. Stuart is being too unfair. You''re


    his daughter-inw, and Holly and Brendon are his own family. How could he leave all that money to


    Ranita?"


    "Shannon, don''t be upset. Brendon is definitely going to divorce Ranita, but she has to return the


    money before they do so. Just be patient a little longer."


    But Shannon couldn''t wait any longer; every second felt like an eternity! She bit her lip and asked


    with a quivering voice, "Is that true? Does Brendon feel the same way?"


    "I''ve waited so long for this moment... I really want to be with Brendon officially," Shannonmented.


    Amiyaforted her saying, "Don''t worry Shannon! I will never acknowledge Ranita as my


    daughter-inw. You are the only one! So just rx and stay here peacefully! You are the future


    mistress of Bouldend Mansion. If Ranita leaves now, then let her go."


    Ranita didn''t even want to go back to Bouldend Mansion anymore.


    She was still in shock.


    "Brendon... pinch me please? Is it real? Am I really going to be a rich woman?" Ranita held


    her face in disbelief.

 Chapter 267 IM Jealous

    Chapter 267 I''M Jealous


    Chapter 267 I''m Jealous


    Ranita looked so cute and adorable that Brendon couldn''t help but be drawn to her. He squeezed


    her hand and said, "You have more money in your hands than I do right now!"


    Brendon had a lot of assets under his name, but managing multiple industries required a lot of liquid


    capital. The cash he could immediately ess was barely over 100 million dorspared to


    Ranita''s $1 billion US dors. She was practically a billionaire!


    This amount of money couldst for a lifetime if it were put in the bank.


    Ranita smiled with her eyes and mouth curved upwards, truly happy.


    "Where do you want to go for dinner tonight?" Brendon asked just as Ranita''s phone rang. It was


    Dn calling.


    Brendon became unhappy when he saw this.


    He quickly snatched away her phone and said, "Don''t answer it!"


    "Dn is my friend; you can''t be so domineering and unreasonable," Ranita tried to grab the phone


    back, leading them into an argument.


    When they finally calmed down from their squabble, Ranita found herself lying on top of Brendon


    with him pressing down on her lower back. The atmosphere between them became ambiguous.


    Brendon got very close; his eyes met hers while she felt nervousness creeping up inside her chest


    as she started breathing heavily out of anxiety.


    "I''m sorry..." Ranita tried to pull away but Brendon held onto her tightly while asking bluntly, "Do you


    like Dn?"


    What? How did they end up talking about this topic?


    "I like him as my friend," she replied defensively before adding hastily. "It''s just friendly liking! Don''t


    think too much about it."


    Upon hearing this response from Ranita, Brendon''s face turned cold for a moment before she


    exined further, "Besides... Eve likes him! I can''t interfere between them." Then after pausing


    briefly, she added thoughtfully, "Actually... I think Dn likes Eve too... he just doesn''t know yet."


    Thinking about how foolish Dn could be sometimes made Brendon smile crookedly without any


    good intentions behind it.


    "He really is a fool!"


    "What nonsense are you talking about! He''s my friend!" Ranita red at him.


    Brendon snorted, "He''s always hovering around you, I don''t like it!"


    "Are you jealous?" Ranita asked casually.


    After asking, she felt a bit uneasy, wondering if her probing was too obvious, feeling a bit contrived.


    Brendon cupped her face and rubbed it gently, looking extremely serious. He said, "Yes! He''s too


    good to you, and I''m jealous."


    Ranita''s heart raced wildly upon hearing those words.


    Her eyes grew warm along with feelings inside herself heating up too.


    "You..."


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Ranita..." Brendon held her a little tighter, his chin resting on her shoulder as he spoke in a


    commanding tone. "Remember, you''re a married woman now. I''ll handle any unwanted attention


    from other men."


    He was beingpletely unreasonable.


    Wasn''t he the one attracting unwanted attention?


    Ranita pursed her lips, about to say something when Brendon''s phone rang.


    He nced at it and hung up.


    It was Amiya calling. Ranita looked away, feeling suddenly uneasy. "Don''t you want to answer your


    mother''s call? What if she..."


    Amiya had been emotionally unstabletely and if things got worse, it would only cause more


    trouble.


    "Ranita... you don''t have to worry about Bouldend Mansion anymore or my mother''s health,"


    Brendon said firmly. "You''ve done enough for us all these years."


    Ranita felt stunned by his understanding and concern for her well-being.


    "I just think you should still call her back," she hesitated before adding, "She is still your mother after


    all. What if there really is something wrong?"


    She wasn''t trying to be saintly; she just didn''t want Brendon to face unnecessary difficulties because


    of his family issues.

 Chapter 268 CanT Help But Tease

    Chapter 268 Can''T Help But Tease


    Chapter 268 Can''t Help but Tease


    "Ring, ring!" Brendon''s phone rang again.


    Brendon pursed his lips and finally answered the call. Ranita took the initiative to retreat to the


    lounge, closing the door behind her. She saw Brendon frowning with a not-so-good expression.


    "Mom... since everything has already been decided, there''s no need to talk about it anymore!"


    Brendon rubbed his forehead and spoke coldly to Amiya who was very emotional, "You shouldn''t be


    too agitated."


    "Brendon! Do you even care about me as your mother? You suddenly decided not to divorce, have


    you ever thought about my feelings? You know I don''t like Ranita." Amiya''s tone was very cold. "Do


    you want me to end up in the hospital because of anger?"


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Faced with questioning, Brendon frowned even tighter.


    "I think it''s better if you stay out of my rtionship with Ranita," Brendon said in a low voice.


    "Brendon!" Amiya knew that Ranita was a sly fox. Over the years, Brendon had been very filial


    towards her but now he was defying her for Ranita.


    "Mom, is there anything else?"


    "Brendon, if you don''t care about me then what about Shannon? What are you going to do with her?


    How are you going exin this situation to the Murphy family?" Mentioning Shannon made Brenden


    feel more annoyed than ever before.


    "I will handle things between Shannon and myself. Don''t worry," Brenden hung up the phone and


    loosened his tie while exhaling deeply.


    In the lounge room, Ranita also returned a call on her phone to Dn.


    The atmosphere on their way home was quite tense.


    "There isn''t anything wrong at Bouldend Mansion, right?" As soon as they arrived home, Ranita


    spoke first. Brenden held onto her hand, pulled her closer and hugged her tightly. He said, "There


    isn''t anything wrong, don''t worry."


    Ranita murmured softly in agreement and wrapped her arms around Brenden. If they were not


    getting divorced anymore, she would cherish their marriage well.


    "Brenden... there''s something I want to tell you today..." Ranita bent down slightly with an excited


    look. She wanted to tell him that he was going to be a father. Would he be surprised or happy?


    Since they were not getting divorced, their thoughts would be filled with anticipation for their child''s


    birth, and watching them grow up. Ranita felt so happy just thinking about it. Her heart was


    overflowing with intense love!


    "You can say it..." Brennan cleared his throat. He could sense that Ranita was in good spirits.


    Her citrus scent had faded, but it still lingered in Brendon''s mind, bringing him pleasure. His


    thoughts were scattered as he delicately kissed her earlobe.


    The hot kiss made Ranita shiver.


    "Don''t move, just listen to me," Ranita grabbed his arm and spoke with a breathy voice that was


    both husky and soft. Even she blushed at the sound of her own voice.


    She couldn''t help but tease him.


    Brendon lowered his head and took in every detail of her features. Ranita had beautiful eyes with


    deep pupils that resembled a painting of a noblewoman when she wasn''t smiling. But when she did


    smile, she looked like a delicate white peony blooming in a flower garden ¨C charming and alluring.


    "I want to kiss you," Brendon said softly.


    "You..." Ranita was annoyed that he interrupted her before she could finish speaking. But before


    she could say anything else, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her onto hisp.


    The cramped space inside the car created an intimate atmosphere between them. As the car


    moved along, the light cast shadows on Brendon''s face while his deep gaze seemed to be engulfed


    by mes as he stared at her intently.


    Ranita''s mind raced like wildfire; heat surged through every inch of her body causing even her ears,


    cheeks and neck to turn red from embarrassment


    "Don''t look at me like that." She tried to shy away from his gaze but he gently held onto chin before


    sealing their lips together passionately.

 Chapter 269 Go Back And Get Intimate Again

    Chapter 269 Go Back And Get Intimate Again


    Chapter 269 Go Back and Get Intimate Again


    Ranita was so overwhelmed by the affectionate gesture that her hands and legs went soft. It took


    her a while to remember that the driver was still in the car. She buried her head in Brendon''s chest


    and whispered, "There''s someone in the car..."


    Just then, the car came to a stop, reaching the apartment. Brendon opened the car door and


    whispered in her ear, "Let''s continue when we get back."


    Brendon, with his tall stature and long legs, led her into the apartment. Ranita nervously entered the


    password, her hands shaking so much that she entered it wrong twice.


    "Hehe!" Brendon chuckled from behind.


    "Why are youughing?" Ranita retorted in annoyance. Suddenly, she felt arms wrapping around


    her, and Brendon, from behind, quickly entered the correct password.


    With a few beeps, the door pushed her inside. Brendon stepped a bit closer from behind, hooked


    his foot to close the door, and pressed her against it to kiss her. Ranita''s face turned even redder


    and hotter.


    Ranita scorned herself inwardly. She felt she was being too provocative. In just a short while, the


    soles of her feet felt like they were on fire. Ranita was so engrossed in the kiss that she forgot to


    talk to Brendon about the child.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Brendon was particrly passionate, but overall gentle. Ranita fell asleep with a sweet heart.


    Throughout the night, she didn''t have any nightmares. As dawn broke, Ranita woke up due to the


    urge to use the bathroom. When she returned, she found Brendon already up, preparing breakfast.


    "Why are you up so early?" Brendon came over, circling his arms around her.


    The morning light fell on his back, and Ranita felt like she was in a dream, warm and cozy. If this


    were truly a dream, Ranita hoped it couldst a little longer, a bit more, to dy her waking.


    "You can''t cook, and if you get hungry, just wake me up," Ranita used to be unable to cook, but after


    being challenged by Amiya at Bouldend Mansion, she learned everything. People, indeed, are


    forced to learn.


    "I can manage a simple breakfast. Try it." Brendon cooked two eggs, toasted some bread, and


    heated milk. It was simple but looked nutritious.


    Ranita ate contentedly. After breakfast, Brendon pulled out the luggage, saying he wanted to take


    her out. Ranita was a bit surprised; she thought Brendon was just saying it casually.


    "Do you really want to go out? You''re so busy with work..."


    "With Caleb around, everything''s okay," Brendon paused before continuing, "I haven''t had a break


    in a while, so I thought we could take a couple of days off and go to the nearby resort."


    "Are you not happy about it?"


    Of course not! Ranita was thrilled! Brendon had been taking care of her like a different person these


    past few days. She was truly touched and knew that he cared for her too.


    Brendon drove while she sat in the passenger seat, feeling like they were just two lovers on a road


    trip.


    "If you''re tired, take some rest. We''ll be there in just over an hour."


    Ranita had been sleeping moretely and dozed off after exchanging only a few words with


    Brendon.


    Half asleep and half awake, she heard Brendon talking intermittently, "Dr. Daniels... hmm... she''s


    doing alright these days. If I''m with her at night she sleeps better."


    "That''s good news," replied the other person on the line. "Recently I heard that you guys were


    considering divorce..."


    "Nope, we''re not nning to get divorced."


    "That''s great! Ms. Bowman has gone through so much recently; it would be best if you don''t stress


    her out too much or else she might develop depression."


    "... I know... she is my wife after all. I''ll do my best."


    Ranita listened dazedly as her heart suddenly felt empty inside.

 Chapter 270 Can You Wait For Me?

    Chapter 270 Can You Wait For Me?


    Chapter 270 Can You Wait for Me?


    For over a week since Ranita disappeared, the physical torture she endured was not the main


    concern. What worried people more was her mental state.


    Ranita looked the same as before.


    But ording to the report given by her psychologist, Ranita''s mental condition wasn''t as healthy


    as it appeared on the surface. Apart from writing in her journal, she hadn''t confided in anyone about


    its contents, which wasn''t good at all.


    Because it was hidden inside her heart, Ranita had nightmares every night.


    "Thank you for your cooperation Mr. Stuart. If you have any questions please contact me!"


    The phone hung up but Ranita''s thoughts were still muddled. Did Brendon suddenly change his


    mind about getting a divorce because he didn''t want to upset her?


    Her heart felt sour.


    Ranita didn''t open her eyes; she was afraid that Brendon wouldn''t be able to exin himself clearly


    or that he would exin too much.


    "Ranita, wake up! We''re here!" A pair of warm hands gently shook her arm and Ranita yawned and


    opened her eyes to meet Brendon''s dark eyes.


    Perhaps love is blind because she thought that Brendon had the best eyes in the world - narrow but


    not small with stars and oceans hidden within them.


    "Hmm?" The man tilted his head quizzically at Ranita. "What''s wrong? Are you feeling


    ufortable somewhere?"


    Ranita shook her head no.


    Brendon carried their luggage while holding onto one of Ranita''s arms leading them forward slowly


    this time instead of his usual fast pace amodating for hers.


    Brendon''s amodation surprised Ranita; he was amodating her more than she expected.


    In that moment, she thought, "Let it be like this! Don''t worry about the reasons, as long as I''m by his


    side."


    After settling in, Brendon went to meet a friend, and Ranita, not in the mood to go out, nibbled on


    something and nestled into the sofa. She had work to do, especially the job she had promised to


    discuss with Chris. Her inbox was filled with unread emails. Just as she finished sorting them out,


    Vincent called her.


    "Hey Ranita," said Vincent after pausing. "Do you have time today? I''d like to take you out."


    "Sorry I''m not in town right now," replied Ranita pursing lips before asking. "When are you going


    over the Stuart''s Corp?"


    "Next week probably," answered Vincent hesitantly. "I''ve been pretty busy these days."


    After several seconds of silence, Vincent asked, "Is Brenden... the person who you like?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Was it already so obvious?


    Ranita pinched her fingers and softly muttered a vague "Hmm." She didn''t know what else to say,


    and there was a bit of an awkward silence.


    "Okay, I got it," said Vincent with a soft chuckle.


    Vincent''s rxed attitude made Ranita breathe a sigh of relief.


    "We''re both from Kurima Foreign Studies University, so if you need any help in the future, just let


    me know. Even if we can''t be lovers or partners, we can still be friends!" Vincent paused and


    exined further to avoid awkwardness.


    "After all, we''ve never been together before, so there''s no love or hate between us."


    Ranita truly admired Vincent for his transparency and ease of mind. It was something that many


    people couldn''t achieve even if they tried.


    "You''re right! I''m staying at Boatleigh Manor right now and I heard their red wine is great. I''ll bring


    you back some souvenirs," said Ranita as she mentioned the wine.


    Vincent replied with a smile on his face, "Don''t forget to bring some for Professor too. He loves it."


    Ranita chuckled softly and agreed, "You''re absolutely right! If I only give one to you but not him, he''ll


    nag me about it for years!"


    As they were talking, someone knocked on the door.


    Ranita hurriedly put on her slippers and opened the door to see Brendon''s handsome yet cold face


    staring back at her.


    "Ranita, something urgent came up and I have to leave now. Can you wait here for me?" asked


    Brendon while his phone screen was still lit up with an ongoing call.


    Was this about Shannon again?

 Chapter 271 Especially Tragic

    Chapter 271 Especially Tragic


    Chapter 271 Especially Tragic


    Ranita put down her phone and couldn''t help but ask, "Is it because of Shannon?"


    Brendon looked upset, like an angry lion emitting a fierce and intimidating aura. "I''m sorry..." Those


    words made her feel sick to her stomach.


    "Okay, I''ll help you pack," Ranita pretended to be nonchnt and turned around, but Brendon


    grabbed her arm and said hoarsely, "Ranita, I''ll go back and check on things. I''ll be back soon." He


    hugged her tightly.


    Ranita''s heart felt like it was thrown into a blender - everything was chaotic.


    "Wait for me," Brendon took the car keys and left.


    Ranita walked out onto the balcony and saw his car disappearing in the distance.


    It was noon with bright sunshine outside.


    Although she should have felt hot under such weather conditions, Ranita didn''t seem to notice


    anything at all; she stood there until her legs went numb while sweating profusely from head to toe.


    "Ranita..." A soft voice came from the phone; it was Vincent''s call that hadn''t been hung up yet.


    "Are you okay?" How could she be okay? She wasn''t okay at all!


    Ranita tried hard to swallow the bitterness in her throat before picking up the phone again,


    "Vincent... sorry."


    "Do you need me toe pick you up?" Vincent didn''t ask anything else but smiled instead, "Of


    course if you want some alone time, that''s fine too, but I hope that if I send a message or call, you


    can reply."


    "It won''t bother you too much."


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ranita pursed her lips with a bitter smile on them.


    "Vincent... I''m fine... you don''t have to worry about me."


    There were several seconds of silence on Vincent''s end before he asked, "Maybe you can talk


    about it with me?"


    Ranita felt terrible inside but knew that everyone had their own unique experiences when it came to


    love affairs - besides being an adult meant not having to shout out personal feelings everywhere


    they went.


    "Vincent, really, I''m fine! You don''t have to worry about me. I''m an adult and know how to handle


    rtionship issues."


    Vincent didn''t insist, and after a few words, he shifted the conversation to Boatleigh Manor. Vincent


    seemed quite familiar with this ce, mentioning many interesting ces for Ranita to explore.


    Using these two days off work, Ranita visited every corner of Boatleigh Manor. The ce had


    everything one could wish for ¨C sunny weather, birds chirping, flowers blooming ¨C except for one


    thing: Brendon. She waited for him for two whole days without any news.


    Brendon didn''te back, he only called her at night to remind her to go to bed early. Without


    Brendon, she always had nightmares.


    In her dreams, there were nging iron chains...


    She couldn''t sleep well and ate very little. The little bit of flesh she had managed to put on was gone


    again. Her delicate face was pale, small and fragile like a palm-sized porcin doll that could be


    blown away by the wind.


    As the check-out date approached, Ranita packed up her things and sat in a lounge chair on the


    balcony enjoying the breeze.


    Brendon said he woulde back for her but she knew he wouldn''t.


    Ranita saw Shannon''s news sporadically in the media - weak yet full of spring breeze with both love


    and career flourishing. Inparison, Ranita felt pathetic.


    Her waiting was worthless and meaningless.


    "Ring ring!" Her phone rang and Ranita took it out to see who it was. The light in her eyes


    disappeared instantly when she saw who it was calling, "Hello? What can I do for you, Caleb?"


    "Ms. Bowman, Mr. Stuart is unable to make it due to some urgent matters so he has sent a driver


    over..." Caleb paused before adding an exnation, "The CEO from Cubrews suddenly called for a


    meeting which is why Mr. Stuart couldn''te personally."


    Ranita pursed her lips but remained silent.

 Chapter 272 Pet

    Chapter 272 Pet


    Chapter 272 Pet


    "Miss Bowman..." Caleb felt a bit awkward. Brendon wasn''t just upset about the Cubrewspany,


    but also because of Shannon...


    But Caleb couldn''t say that.


    "Caleb, it''s okay. I n on staying for one more day and will go back by myself tomorrow. You can


    tell the driver not toe!"


    "Miss Bowman, the driver is probably halfway there already. And Mr. Stuart is worried about you


    being alone."


    If he was really worried, why did he leave her alone here for two days?


    She was like a pet in Brendon''s hands - if he felt like ying with her, he would; if not, she was left


    aside.


    He seemed to know that his pet wouldn''t survive without him.


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


    He really was despicable.


    "Okay... I understand," Ranita said before hanging up the phone. While checking her luggageter


    on, she realized that she had forgotten to buy souvenirs for her friends back home.


    There was a wine cer specifically for guests at the estate and Ranita felt dizzy looking at all of the


    different types of wine avable there - she didn''t know much about wine herself.


    "Ranita? What are you doing here?" Suddenly someone called out from behind and Ranita turned


    around to see Chris standing tall at the door.


    "Mr. Webster?" Ranita was quite surprised too, "What a coincidence."


    "Yeah!" Chris walked closer and smiled slightly while lowering his head, "I''m doing some business


    nearby and I happen to know the owner of this estate who left me some good wine here so I came


    over to pick it up."


    Ranita figured Chris must be more knowledgeable than herself when it came to wines so she asked


    him directly, "I came over for two days and wanted to choose some red wines as gifts for my friends


    back home... could you help me pick out a few?"


    Chris did not refuse. He picked a few good ones for her. Knowing that one of them was for Dn,


    he raised his eyebrows. "Have you known Dn for a long time?"


    "Huh?" Ranita paused briefly before answering, "We''ve known each other quite awhile now so we''re


    close."


    "Mm," Chris responded lightly. "We already have enough red wines at home so don''t bother getting


    any more bottles just meant solely for him!"


    "How about something else then? Like... fruit?"


    In addition to the renowned winery in the vicinity, there were also some fruit ntations that offered


    a variety of fruits, which may be simr to those found in the market. However, what set them apart


    was the heartfelt experience they provided.


    Ranita didn''t think much further into it either before saying, "Alright then! He can''t drink too much


    anyway so maybe I''ll get him some fruits instead which Eve could share with."


    Chris didn''t even let her go buy it herself. After getting the red wine he wanted, he also had the


    vineyard owner send her arge box of fruit.


    "Do you need a ride back?" Chris seemed to know everything, but he never said anything.


    Ranita pursed her lips. "Brendon sent a car to pick me up."


    "Okay then!" Chris paused before saying in a low voice, "If you need any help, just let me know."


    Chris didn''t leave immediately. He waited until the driver came and helped Ranita with her luggage


    before saying goodbye.


    On the way home, Ranita slept soundly and only woke up when she was hungry after dark. She


    checked her phone and saw that Brendon had called several times without an answer.


    As she changed clothes and called him back, she heard someone pushing open the door with long


    fingers. A man walked in confidently.


    "Why haven''t you been answering your phone?" Brendon enveloped her from behind with his arms


    around her waist. The warmth was mixed with nauseating sweetness from his cologne.

 Chapter 273 The Boy Whom She Once Peeked

    Chapter 273 The Boy Whom She Once Peeked


    Chapter 273 The Boy Whom She Once Peeked


    Ranita''s spine stiffened. She lowered her eyshes and pushed away Brendon''s arm, silently


    putting on simple andfortable home clothes.


    "Are you... not angry anymore?" Brendon''s voice was low, as if he knew he had gone too far this


    time.


    In truth, Ranita didn''t me him. She med herself.


    "I''m not angry." Pausing for a moment, she said, "You''re busy with work and can''t afford to waste


    time. Boatleigh Manor is so beautiful that it''s really a pity you couldn''t see it properly."


    As for who he was with or what he was doing when he wasn''t around, she didn''t want to ask.


    "Ranita... are you really not angry?" Brendon looked down with dark circles under his eyes. His


    handsome face looked tired and it was clear that he hadn''t slept well.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Really. Didn''t you say I wouldn''t care?" Ranita saw that hisplexion wasn''t good and pursed her


    lips saying, "Did you rest well?"


    "Mm... I didn''t sleep very well."


    "Well then go rest now. I''ll make something to eat and call you when it''s ready." Ranita gently


    pushed Brendon while wearing the same expression as before.


    Brendon made an affirmative sound without even changing his clothes before falling asleep


    immediately after lying down again. He must have been very tired.


    A marriage among three people was indeed exhausting.


    Ranita quietly made dinner and called Brendon up to eat together. They chatted casually before


    sleeping in each other''s embrace


    Ranita nestled in his arms listening to his heartbeat feeling both sourness and sweetness in her


    heart.


    "Can''t sleep?" asked Brendon squinting at her.


    "What about you? Why aren''t you sleeping?" After pausing for a moment she asked, "Can you stay


    here today?"


    Ranita never thought that she would be so humble when reuniting with her husband at home but


    instead felt like the canary who had turned upside down despite being the one married to him all


    along.


    "Sleep! Goodnight." Without answering back, Brendon held onto her while gently stroking her back.


    The next day, early morning came around quickly as usual. Brendon went out again leaving behind


    Ranita who went over her professor''s house bringing red wine. Her professor invited Vincent to


    come over resulting in them having lunch together happily.


    While they were eating lunch together, Ranita received a phone call from Brendon who seemed


    quite anxious, "Ranita, where did you go? Aren''t you at home?"


    "Mm¡­I went out¡­what happened?" replied Ranita lightly.


    Brendon felt like there was something off about Ranita''s voice which sounded distant, cold, and


    detached, making him feel uneasy inside.


    "I had someone send you the evening dress. You..." Brendon''s words were cut off by Shannon''s


    high-pitched voice in the background.


    He was probably calling her toe eat.


    "I got it. I''ll go back soon. If it''s someone trustworthy, just give them the password and leave the stuff


    at home," Ranita said.


    After a few seconds of silence, Brendon spoke again, "Ranita, I''ll exin everything to youter.


    Don''t be angry."


    "If I get angry, will you stay away from Shannon?" Ranita moved her lips but didn''t say anything else


    except for a soft "Mm-hmm."


    "Have a good meal. Bye."


    Ranita didn''t say anything and didn''t want to think too much about it either.


    But then she heard Shannon''s sweet voice on the other end of the phone saying, "Brendon, who


    are you talking to? Come over quickly! We''re going to try on dresses together..."


    Click!


    The phone hung up.


    Ranita stood on the balcony in a daze and looked out at Kurima Foreign Studies University''s library


    where ivy still grew lushly...


    The bright sunlight made her eyes blur.


    In that moment of confusion, Ranita seemed to see herself as a young girl many years ago hiding


    behind ivy leaves and secretly watching her beloved boy...

 Chapter 274 Coming To The Door

    Chapter 274 Coming To The Door


    Chapter 274 Coming to the Door


    "Ranita." Out of nowhere, Vincent''s voice came from behind. "Have you finished your call? If so, go


    back and have lunch."


    Ranita turned around, her eyes a little ufortable. She quickly lowered her head.


    Vincent was originally leaning against the balcony door. Seeing her appearance, he took two steps


    forward and asked with his head tilted, "Did sand get into your eye?"


    "Yeah!" Ranita nodded along with his words.


    "It''ll be fine in a while. Don''t rub it or it''ll get redder." Vincent handed her a tissue and spoke gently


    as if he knew something but didn''t expose her.


    Although Vincent was older than her by some measure, men like him were mature and charming in


    certain ways - gentle in character and caring for others.


    "Thank you."


    Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    After lunch, Vincent left with Ranita. It was almost the end of the semester now; most students were


    busy taking final exams at noon time on weekdays so there weren''t many people on the pedestrian


    walkway.


    Vincent led her through a shady green path that passed by the library where he stopped to say,


    "The ivy here hasn''t changed at all over these years."


    "That''s true. I used to like reading there." Ranita pointed to the arch railing position on the second


    floor with a smile in her eyes.


    Standing at that spot on the second floor allowed one to look up and see people passing below


    them.


    Ranita still remembered how she felt when she saw Brendon for the first time - heart beating like


    riding on a roller coaster; he shone brightly as if rubbing off light into her eyes.


    "I used to like staying there too," Vincent smiled regretfully saying. "It''s too bad I graduated earlier


    than you did. Otherwise, we could still read together."


    "... if you didn''t graduate, then Professor wouldn''t have noticed me," Ranita smiled as she


    reminisced. Vincent used to be the professor''s favorite and a star student. After he graduated,


    Ranita took over the baton.


    "Don''t say that... do you want to go inside? I have my card so I can lend books for you." Although


    next semester was when Vincent would start teaching sses officially, the school had already


    given him an ess card long ago just so they can keep him tied down here longer.


    Ranita hesitated slightly because Kurima Foreign Studies University Library had many books not


    avable outside but it wasn''t early anymore; she needed to return home soon instead...


    So they agreed that next time they woulde together again...


    At the apartment entrance, as soon as Ranita stepped out of elevator, she saw Amiya and Holly


    standing nearby; pursing lips without looking sideways towards them, she walked straight towards


    home door.


    "Ranita, stop right there!" Holly red at her and shouted, reaching out to block Ranita''s path.


    Ranita furrowed her brows. "Miss Stuart, Mrs. Stuart, what can I do for you?"


    "Honestly Ranita, what''s with your attitude? You refuse to divorce my brother and now my mother is


    still your mother-inw. Who do you think you are to give anyone an attitude?" Holly gritted her


    teeth and looked like she was about to tear into Ranita.


    Ranita was speechless. "You came here on your own ord and yet wonder why people dislike


    you? I don''t wee you here so please leave."


    "Ranita..." Holly was about to explode again when Amiya stepped in and sneered, "Ranita, since


    you haven''t divorced Brendon yet, technically I am still your mother-inw. Is this how you treat


    elders?"


    Suppressing her anger, Ranita asked, "Mrs. Stuart, what brings the two of you here today?"


    "Are we sure we want to discuss this in public?"


    Not wanting them inside her home, she went together with them to a nearby caf¨¦.


    Amiya wasted no time getting down to business, "There are two things I need from you, Ranita..."

 Chapter 275 Shannon Is Pregnant

    Chapter 275 Shannon Is Pregnant


    Chapter 275 Shannon is Pregnant


    "First of all, regarding the money that Wyatt gave you, it belongs to the Stuart family. You better be smart and return it," Amiya said with a


    contemptuous look at Ranita.


    "Secondly, Brendon has been spending time with Shannon these days. You should know your ce in his heart. The reason he hasn''t divorced you is


    because you were kidnapped and hurt during that time. He didn''t want to divorce you then,¡± Amiya continued.


    The more Amiya spoke, the more disdainful she looked at Ranita


    "Brendon showed mercy because of your marriage rtionship, but don''t think for a second that everything is okay,¡± she added.


    Ranita felt waves of pain surge through her heart but maintained a calm exterior.


    "Mrs. Stuart, I''m sorry but I can''t agree with your first point. Since Mr. Stuart left me something in his will specifically for me to dispose of as I see fit, I


    believe I have the right to do so.¡±


    Pausing briefly before continuing, "As for your second paint, although you are Brendon''s mother, please refrain from meddling in matters between him


    and me.¡±


    Ranita''s words were neither salty nor nd but they infuriated Amiya nheless.


    Holly couldn''t help herself, ¡°Mom! Why are we even talking to her? What right does an outsider like her have to inherit Grandpa''s property? It was


    ours from the beginning!¡±


    "Ranita, what do you want?"


    Ranita thought it was a little funny that they came to her and asked her what she wanted. Wasn''t that funny?


    "Miss Stuart! You''re the one who came here voluntarily so shouldn''t I be asking what you want?" said Ranita before adding, "I have something else to


    attend to now."


    Ranita picked up her things and prepared leave when suddenly Amiya called out after her, "Do you know why Brendon has been spending all this


    time with Shannontely?"


    Amiya and Hally raised their


    eyebrows suggestively while sipping


    their coffe ee Cups, lips curledinto  .


    wicked gmi es as if enjoying some


    private joke between them, "A few


    days.ago, Shannon suddenly felt


    unwell and fainted... After same


    tests were done... They found out


    that Shannon is pregnant...¡±


    belongs to swnovel.ne


    NS


    if


    Holly chimed in excitedly, "... with my brother''s child!"


    Ranita lowered her eyelids and clenched her fingers as she held the bag.


    Holly saw her.upset, her face smug,


    "You heard c6nrectly! From now on


    they''ll live happi y ever after as one.


    big family together... So don''t x


    struggte-anymore; just take contro


    of yourself by divorcing him


    VO. ylurita ily." Holly concluded¡¯


    teturmphantly thinking she-had final y


    gotten rid of Ranita once-and-for-a


    NS


    "Now Shannon is the treasure of our whole family. If you dare to provoke or harm Shannon, I''ll make sure you regret it!¡±


    Ranita''s heart was boiling with anger.


    She tightly squeezed her palms, and the pain from her nails brought some rity to her mind. "Mrs. Stuart. Miss Stuart, I am Brendon''s legal wife. I''m


    still here. What''s in Miss Murphy''s belly doesn''t mean anything.¡±


    "You! How dare you say that...¡± Holly red at Ranita in anger.


    "Why wouldn''t I dare say it? Should we call the media for a press conference? Let everyonee and judge?" Ranita interrupted calmly, but inside


    she was seething with rage that almost consumed her sanity.


    Ranita grabbed her bag and left


    She returned to her apartment and closed the door behind her. She leaned against it as if she had no strength left and fell to the ground weakly.


    Brendon¡¯s pair of slippers were still ced neatly at the entrance hall next to hers. Ranita''s eyes turned red with tears as she felt heartbroken beyond


    words.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    After half an haur passed by slowly,


    Ranita dragged Brendon¡¯s luggage


    out of their Closet like a madwoman,


    throwingeverything into his suitcase


    before-stamming it shut heavily:She


    changed the password lock on the


    front door before copsing-onto a


    chair exhaustedly.

 Chapter 276 Wandering Heart

    Chapter 276 Wandering Heart


    Chapter 276 Wandering Heart


    After everything was done, Ranita sat on the couch feeling drained. What was the point of doing all this? She wasn''t an impulsive person, so she


    spent half an hour arranging her things in the suitcase. She felt like crying. but her tears stubbornly refused to fall.


    Ranita called Marlon and asked him about the matter she had previously entrusted to him. "It might take another half a month,¡± Marlon said after a


    pause. "I''ll urge them for you, but there are many assets involved, so it will still take some time.¡±


    "Are you feeling better?¡±


    Ranita appreciated Marlon''s concern.


    "I''m fine," she replied with a grunt.


    "Thank you again for what happenedst time.¡± she said gratefully.


    Ranita didn''t expect that asking Marlon to follow Turner would eventually save her life at a critical moment; she was truly grateful to him.


    "Don''t be so polite. Miss Bowman." After hearing about Wyatt''s inheritance from Ranita, Marlon paused for a moment before continuing calmly, "Do


    you want me to handle this matter for you?"


    "Yes!" After pausing briefly, Ranita added, "Maybe I need your help in coordinating with Mr. Adams; just let me know what I can do."


    Marlon smiled and replied, "Okay, I''ll help you handle it." Then he asked, "Have you thought about what to do with all that money? As they say,


    ¡®hoarding jade brings bad luck.'' If you leave the Stuart family with so much money, the people there probably won''t be happy.¡±


    Finally, Marlon exined, ¡°Of course, I''m not talking about Mr. Stuart."


    Ranita sighed and was about to speak when the doorbell rang.


    "Mr. Goodman , someone is here. I''ll


    talkter¡°¡°With so much money in


    hand, Ranita knew that it would¡¯


    att act attention. So, she nned on


    us ing it for charity work instead of


    keeping it all herself. Content


    b¨¦longs  ~Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Through the peephole, Ranita saw


    Brendon outside. She felt uneasyas


    soon ag 3 she saw him enter through


    the door and ask if she had changed


    her Sassword without any ?


    expression of pleasure on_his face.


    "Um, it''s safe," Ranita said perfunctorily, her gaze falling on Brendon¡¯s shoulder where a half-lipstick mark was left on his snow-white shirt


    Ranita''s eyes were burning with pain.


    Brendon probably thought she had an imprable heart that was invincible to any harm


    "Why are you back so early?"


    "Have you tried on the dress?¡± It wasn''t until he mentioned the dress that she remembered she had to attend the birthday banquet tonight.


    "I''ve already had someone send it over.¡±


    Ranita pursed her lips and looked around before noticing arge box ced on the dining table. She walked over and opened the lid. revealing a


    serene blue gown inside.


    The shoulders and sleeves were


    made of transparent gauze material,


    while th¨¦ light blue color resembled


    a washed- out sky after rain. There


    werealso some beads attached to it


    that reflected light bea utifully.


    "Have you tried it on? Does it fit?¡± Brendon walked over and reached for her waist but Ranita avoided him and lowered her head saying, "Not yet. I''m


    going to try it now."


    Ranita carried the box into the dressing room feeling lost in fog without knowing which direction to take or what she should do next.


    "What''s wrong?¡± Just then Brendon came in from behind and hugged her while speaking in a low voice, "Who upset you?¡±

 Chapter 277 Three People, Too Crowded

    Chapter 277 Three People, Too Crowded


    Chapter 277 Three People, Too Crowded


    Who made her unhappy?


    Besides himself, who else could it be? Ranita''s already fiery heart became even more inmed.


    Ranita pursed her lips and spoke in a cool voice, "Brendon, I need to change. Can you please leave first?¡±


    "Are you angry?" Brendon asked


    "I am angry. What are you going to do about it?" Ranita''s lips curled up into a smile that was clearly cold.


    What did her anger matter to Brendon?


    In his mind, it was just something that could be resolved with one or two sentences.


    ¡°Ranita... I''m sorry..." Brendon tightened his arms around her and the scent of sweetness wafted over. Unable to bear it any longer, Ranita pushed


    him away and looked into Brendon''s eyes as she asked, "Weren''t you supposed to apany Miss Murphy in trying on dresses? Howe you


    have time toe here?"


    Brendon fell silent.


    His gaze was dark and oppressive for several seconds before he finally asked, "Did you hear about Shannon going to the birthday party too?"


    Ranita clenched the dress tightly in her hand as she asked him back with a hint of sorrow in her voice, "Is she going with you?"


    "Mm-hmm." This sound felt like a boulder crashing down on Ranita''s heart while the mes burned fiercely inside of her until there was nothing left


    but ashes.


    Ranita turned away from him coldly as she said, "Then what identity do I have when I go with you then?"


    A marriage among three people was too crowded.


    The atmosphere grew colder by the second.


    Brendon held onte her hand tightly while staring at her pupils intently. He seemed conflicted but didn''t say anything for a long time.


    Silence spread throughout the room while Ranita¡¯s heart grew colder by the minute.


    "Brendon... you should leave now." She pushed his hands away inch by inch before adding, "Shannon is waiting for you."


    Ranita made concessions because she wanted to preserve some self-respect instead of making endlesspromises.


    As he watched this woman turn away from him with an icy expression on her face, Brenden felt very ufortable inside.


    ¡°Ranita... Shannon will go together with my family members. You''lle along with me because your my wife."


    For once, Ranita found herself speechless despite opening up wide enough mouth without saying anything at all.


    "Don''t be angry anymore. I''ll handle


    things properly, and we can talk <


    later." Brenden reached out and


    hugged Ranita, patted gently on


    backtrying calm down what¨¦ver


    eraetions were raging within.


    Wrapped up in warmth, Ranita''s heart hurt half due pain, half due reluctance.


    "Okay..." Ranita murmured, lowering her eyshes in response.


    Brendon didn''t leave, instead he watched her intently.


    "You go out first... I''ll change my clothes," Ranita said, feeling her heart beating faster.


    Brendon cAuckled softly and N


    reached '' Sut to help tidy up the stray


    hair ardund her ears. "The zipper at


    the back I is hard to pull up, letrne


    help you.¡± to


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "I can do it myself,¡± Ranita said with a hint of pain in her eyes. Did he also help Shannon try on dresses like this?


    "You go out!" Ranita spoke coldly.


    Brendon noticed that she wasn''t feeling well and frowned. "What''s wrong?¡±


    Ranita didn''t answer him and turned away slowly to take off her clothes.


    The gaze behind her felt a little hot.


    Ranita ignored him and put on the dress but as Brendon had mentioned earlier, the zipper at the back was indeed difficult to pull up.


    ¡°Let me do it," Brendon leaned over to help while his fingertips asionally brushed against her skin causing an itch that made his mind wander.


    She pursed lips wanting to move


    away from him a bit more but he


    whispered ih her ear firmly, "Don''t ~


    move!¡± His gaze fell on Ranita¡¯s a


    half- ceyered back which was ¡é>


    slend¨¦r yet beautiful making! his


    badly feel warm as if he haddrunk


    af¨¦ohol. .to

 Chapter 278 Got A Little Belly

    Chapter 278 Got A Little Belly


    Chapter 278 Got a Little Belly


    "Are you ready?" The wait was too long, and Ranita couldn''t help but feel anxious.


    ¡°It''s almost time!" Brendon''s throat rolled.


    Finally, Brendon wrapped his arm around her waist, cing his palm on her small belly and frowned. ¡°Ranita... it seems like you''ve gained weight in


    your stomach.¡±


    Ranita froze.


    Her spine stiffened as she pursed her lips and pretended to be calm. "No way. You must have mistaken it.¡±


    ¡°How could I? Your face looks slimmer, your waist is thinner... only your stomach has grown..." Brendon pinched her flesh with his fingers and


    chuckled teasingly. "Do you have a baby in there?"


    A chill ran down Ranita''s spine


    She turned to look at Brendon with courage and asked, "If I really am pregnant, what are you going to do? Are we going to keep the baby?"


    ¡°Our child... don''t you want to keep it?" Brendon asked back as he lowered his eyes filled with emotion.


    Would this woman who loved someone else help him raise a child? If they had a child together, Ranita would never be able to leave him for the rest


    of their lives..


    ¡°Haha! I''m just kidding! Why are you taking this so seriously!" Ranita lowered her eyshes and spoke softly. "You''ve always been careful; where


    would the babye from?"


    Brendon¡¯s eyes grew darker as he tightened his grip on her arm. "It''s not that: when you moved out that one time, there was one time when we


    forgot... what if something happened then?¡±


    Pausing for a moment, Brendon suddenly remembered when they were in Qaesburg during that time, when Ranita had gotten her period


    "No! Don''t think about it!" If it wasn''t for Shannon''s situation right now, she probably would''ve told him everything but now she didn¡¯t n on saying


    anything anymore.


    Ranita pushed away from Brendon''s grasp and stood in front of the mirror.


    The water-blue dress made her skin appear even fairer than before - fragile yet smooth - every step she took caused the light veil behind her sway


    gently while swaying like willow leaves.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "You look beautiful!¡± Brenden couldn''t take his eyes off of hers.


    With delicate featuresbined with an elegant figure that held any color dress well


    "Wait outside for me. I''ll be done scon." She needed some privacy while doing makeup because having Brendon stare at herself was too


    embarrassing.


    Ranita spoke coolly with distant tone causing sourness within Brendon''s heart.


    "Ranita... please don''t be mad at me.¡±


    Looking at him already caused waves of emotions within herself making everything feel torn apart inside of herself.


    Why was Brendon so heartless? He cut her heart into pieces with his own hands and still expected her not to be angry?


    Her heart, along with the warmth in her fingertips. slowly faded away.


    Ranita sat at the dressing table and spoke softly, "I''m not throwing a tantrum. I just want to do my makeup. I don''t want you to get bored waiting for


    me.¡±


    Ranita wanted to throw a fit, but what good would it do? In Brendon''s heart, it was clear who was more important.


    Ranita already looked beautiful


    without makeup. With light makeup


    and some lipstick to enhance her lip


    color, she looked simple yet elegant


    in. Ber water blue dress. Cafitent


    ~


    She looked like a fairy who didn''t belong in this world.


    Brendon also changed into a


    custom-made suit that entuat¨¦d


    his height and long legs. Coupled


    with his handsome face that never


    gots ald, he was definitely themost


    eye-catching person in thefoom.


    "It looks great.¡± Ranitaplimented him as Brendon raised an eyebrow with a hint of happiness on his face.


    Before they left for their event, Brendon went to the bathroom while Ranita drank water. The doorbell rang.


    At the dogF stood Shannon wearing.


    a white. cocktail dress. She sweetly


    Said toRanita, "Brendon left his.¡±


    watch ¡®at my ce earlier; I came


    ne to give it back." Content


    ~~

 Chapter 279 Showing Off With Pride

    Chapter 279 Showing Off With Pride


    Chapter 279 Showing Off with PrideContent bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Ranita closed the door and took it over fram Shannon. Shannon smiled, her face glowing with happiness. "Thanks, Ranita. Please give this to


    Brendon for me."


    "Oh, and by the way, Ranita, you look beautiful today. Are you going to the Webster family¡¯s birthday partyter?¡±


    Shannon lightly touched her stomach while raising her eyebrows in a boastful manner.


    Ranita felt uneasy inside.


    ¡°Ranita, I''ll see youter. I have to go now," Shannon said softly as she turned around.


    "Wait a minute, Shannon." Ranita called out.


    "What''s wrong?¡± Shannon lowered her eyes and tears immediately welled up in them as if she were pitifully helpless. "I''m just helping Brendon deliver


    his watch here; is that not allowed? I promised Brendon that he could spend time with you today."


    Her made-up face looked pathetic.


    It was ridiculous how she acted like a wife who needed someone else''s permission to let her husband apany his own wife! As Ranita held onto


    the box about to speak up. Shannon twisted her fingers and spoke first, "Ranita, please don''t be angry okay? I''ll leave right away."


    "Shannon," Ranita said calmly but firmly. "Can we talk tomorrow?¡±


    "Do you have something important to tell me?¡± asked Shannon weakly while biting on her lip gently.


    ¡°Ranita-" But before they could continue their conversation further, Brendon''s voice interrupted them as he opened the door from inside, "Shannon?


    What are you doing here?¡±


    Shannon looked timidly at Brendon, "Brendon... I just wanted to give you the watch. I didn¡¯t mean to intentionally seek you out."


    ying hard-to-get with hidden meanings in every word of hers made Ranita feel like banging on something. She knew exactly what kind of person


    this woman was trying so hard not show herself as being one!


    "I''ll leave now," Shannon swayed her body and turned to walk away.


    "Ranita, you go inside first. I''ll apany her for a bit." Brendon said, catching up with Shannon''s steps. Ranita watched their backs and gently


    closed the door.


    Brendon pressed the elevator button for Shannon. his tone cold, "You shouldn''t havee here."


    ¡®I''m sorry! I jugt wanted to give you


    the watch. You left it at my ce,


    and you''re attending a birthday =.


    banquetright? I was afraid there. S


    wouldn¡®sbe a matching watch for


    you atRanita s ce." Shannen


    lowered her head pitifully, her voice


    carrying the same sense ef


    grievance, and a hint of weakness.


    "I didn''t mean to, Brendon, don''t be angry," Shannon said softly.


    Brendon looked at her delicate appearance and suppressed his displeasure. "Aren''t you feeling unwell? Don''t run around.¡±


    "Thank you for your concern, Brendon. I''m fine!" Shannon gently stroked her belly and looked at Brendon coyly. ¡°You can rest assured that our baby


    is healthy."


    Brendon¡¯s eyes turned dark as he spoke with a sharp tone from his thin lips. "Don''t mention this in front of Ranita.¡±


    "l... Lwon''t," Shannon lowered her


    head. ¡®Brendon, I know you don''t


    want to hurt Ranita. She has been ->


    through ¡ì such a terrible experience


    when she was abducted and niust


    have Suffered psychological ly. I


    dort want to upset her at this time!"


    "But... this is still our child; my request isn''t too much. All I hope for is to give the baby a home."


    Shannon khew when to stop


    pushing the issue; she bit her lip and


    Said, "Forget it, I won''t say anything


    mores ¡®about it. I know that youwill


    handte it properly. I''ll leave now! You


    go-back and keep Ranitapany!"

 Chapter 280 Seal Print

    Chapter 280 Seal Print


    Chapter 280 Seal Print


    Brendon went back and there was a noise at the door.


    "You''re back," Ranita snapped out of her reverie. In fact. she wasn''t thinking about anything, just daydreaming with an empty mind.


    Now she didn''t want to think about anything


    She can maintain calmness, having exhausted all her patience and courage.


    "Um..." Brendon sat down beside her and lightly squeezed her hand. "I don''t know if Shannen wille, sorry."


    Ranita was smiling with her eyes curved.


    Only, eyes and smile were all cold.


    "She gave you the watch.¡± Ranita shook off his hand, took out the watch from the box and helped Brendon put it on. "Let''s go.¡±


    On the way, Ranita kept staring out of the car window in a daze.


    ¡°Ranita, what are you looking at?" Brendon curiously leaned over and wrapped his arm around her shoulder, the sudden intimacy making Ranita¡¯s


    body stiffen a bit.


    "I didn''t see much,¡± Ranita paused and exined, ¡°I''ve been busy these past few years and haven''t had a chance to really look at Kurima. I didn''t


    realize so many tall buildings had been built without me noticing."


    Before, she could only see Brendon in her eyes and didn¡¯t pay attention to anything else outside.


    "Yeah! It changes every year... That''s the Stuart''s Corp building, can you see it?¡± Brendon pointed to one of the buildings in a row, with the Stuart''s


    Corp sign particrly prominent.


    Stuart''s Corp had grown significantly under Brendon''s leadership since it was handed over from Wyatt. Brendon had a good eye and precise


    investment strategies, which had contributed to the current sess of Stuart''s Corp.


    "I see," Ranita nodded, trying to avoid Brendon, but he held onto her waist. He leaned in closer and his lips brushed against her ear, "Why have you


    been avoiding me?¡±


    "No..."


    "Still denying it?¡± Brendon''s arm exerted more force, causing her slender waist to ache and the formal dress to be wrinkled.


    Ranita was forced to lean against him, with the warm breath of his breathing filling her ears.


    Eye contact.


    Ranita hadit reacted yet when he ~~


    kissed her. Unlike before, Brendon


    kissedsher hard and urgently, and


    theictips collided with a bite that left


    a. aark on her lip.


    to  -


    The smell of rust wafted in.


    But soon, she was engulfed in even more warmthContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Ranita''s lips were kissed until they tingled, and her whole body felt like a puddle of water, soft against him.


    "Let go of me,¡± Ranita blushed and protested in a hoarse voice, "The driver is here.¡±


    His lowughter rang in her ears, ¡°Can''t hear it, can''t see it."


    "That''s not the way... My dress is all wrinkled now!" Not only her dress, but Brendon''s suit also showed some creases from their passionate


    encounter.


    What was ¨¦ven more embarrassing.


    for Ranita was that her lips werea


    bit sore. ¡®She took out a makeup.


    mirror rand took a look, noticing a cut


    On. her swollen red lips. Coritent


    belongs to  ~


    The atmosphere became even more ambiguous.


    The next second, her chin was gently lifted and Brendon leaned in to look at her lips. "They''re red," he said.


    Ranita reached out and pped him, her face turning red. "Look at what you''ve done!"


    Brendon hetd her fingers and yed


    with the tips delicately. He leaned i ia


    to kiss Fer again as Ranita struggled


    to cateh her breath. Then he ~


    whispered in her ear, "Why don''t you


    bite me back?"


    ¡°


    Perhaps out of selfishness or revenge, Ranita took the initiative to lean in and bit his lip.


    She didn''t exert much force, just leaving a shallow tooth mark.


    "Soft and powerless!" Brendon held her waist and pulled her onto hisp, taking control and deepening the kiss.


    Ranita felt a warm sensation in her heart and her skin turned bright red as she was kissed


    "Who says I don''t have strength!" Ranita retorted, angered. She opened her mouth and nibbled on his slender neck, leaving behind a vivid mark.

 Chapter 281 Encounter

    Chapter 281 Encounter


    Chapter 281 Encounter


    The scene was a bit ambiguous, and anyone who saw it would chuckle to themselves.


    "I''m sorry..." Ranita looked at the bright imprint. feeling conflicted. She wanted to be honest but also didn''t want Brendon to get angry.


    ¡°Ranita!¡± Brendon scratched her nose and let out a soft hum, but he didn''t pursue the matter further.


    Ranita sat on hisp after causing anothermotion just now. They looked at each other with an indescribable expression in their eyes.


    Fortunately, the car stopped at this moment. The driver''s voice came from the front, "Mr. Stuart, we''ve arrived."


    Ranita quickly got off hisp and straightened her dress before getting out of the car.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Diego Webster''s birthday banquet had invited many rtives and friends over. It was held in a private vi estate owned by the Webster family.


    Brendon led her forward and met Chris who was weing guests at the entrance.


    ¡°Brendon, Ranita! You''re here! Come inside!" Chris greeted them warmly. "Steve is already inside waiting for you guys: go talk with him."


    There was an independent banquet hall in the estate where people were gathered together.


    As they walked forward a few steps more, someone suddenly dashed towards them, "Brother! Why did you take so long? Shannon and I have been


    waiting for you for ages!¡±


    It was Holly.


    She immediately rolled her eyes when she saw Ranita, "Why did you bring Ranita along?"


    "Holly, watch your words: you should address Ranita as your sister-inw,¡± Brendon frowned slightly with displeasure evident in his eyes


    Holly trembled under his gaze before snorting, "I don''t want to!¡±


    "Holly..." Brendon was about to get angry when a gentle voice interrupted him, "Brendon, what are you guys doing outside? Why don''t we go inside?"


    Shannon fluttered over like a butterfly while holding onto her skirt beforetching onto Brendon''s arm


    Brenden subconsciously nced at Ranita only to find that she seemed oblivious as he pursed his lips tightly together, "Shannon, you can go ahead


    with Holly.¡±


    "But... I haven''t even greeted Ranita yet," Shannon pouted pitifully while looking hurt, "Ranita, do you wante sit down with us?"


    Ranita remained silent while Shannon continued whining, "Ranita, why are you ignoring me? Did I do something wrong again? I..."


    ¡°Ranita, what''s your problem? Shannon greeted you and you were so impolite, ignoring her," Holly immediately spoke up for Shannon, raising her


    chin towards Ranita.


    "Shannon, don''t pay attention to her! Don''t get angry now: your health is the most important thing. Don''t let the baby-"


    "Holly, you and Shannen go inside first!" Brendon interrupted with a frown. his gaze sharp on Holly.


    Holly felt wronged.


    "Holly, that''s enough! Let''s not disturb Brendon anymore. Let''s go inside first," Shannon said softly and coquettishly smiled at Brendon. "Brendon


    we''ll go in first.¡±


    As they walketia little further away


    icoan Brendetrand Ranita, Holly


    grabbed onto Shannon angrily. <>


    "Shannoht Why did you stop me?


    Look at how kind you are; Ranita still


    daresto give you attitude! I''mmso


    sick of her!"


    a


    Shannon patted her arm gently while


    smoothi veg out the hair near her 2


    earlobe: You''re being ridiculous: 400;


    your I brother is still here. Why would


    yousiwant to make him mad by


    acting like this?¡± Content betongs to


    Holly brightened up when she heard this.


    "You''re right! My brother can''t


    always be ardund Ranita forever. I''ll


    show her.who''s boss whenhe


    leaves!" she paused before happily


    taking F held of Shannon''s hand again,


    ¡®Shartabn, just watch the show


    quietly and take care of m ydlittle


    nephew while I handle hese


    annoying people."


    Shannon lowered their eyes with a shallow smile flickering across her face.

 Chapter 282 Birthday Banquet

    Chapter 282 Birthday Banquet


    Chapter 282 Birthday Banquet


    Ranita stood calmly.


    "Let''s go inside," Brendon took her hand, but she pulled away. Ranita¡¯s voice was cool, "I can handle it alone. Why don''t you go keep Miss Murphy


    company?"


    "I''ll stay with you." Brendon grabbed her fingers tightly, "I''ll introduce you to Mr. Webster.¡±


    Why did Brendon have to do this?


    Ranita''s thoughts were turbulent like salty seawater, and the wound inside her throbbed.


    Diego was old but still sharp-witted and had a kind appearance.


    "Mr. Webster, happy birthday.¡± As they entered the door, their gift had already been given to the servant. Brendonplimented him while Diego.


    smiled and said "good good good." His gaze fell on Ranita who he pondered for a moment before asking. "Is this... the youngdy from a few years


    ago? Oh my goodness, she looks even more ethereal now."


    Wyatt had a good rtionship with Diego; when Ranita entered Bouldend Mansion earlier, she saw him from afar but never expected him to


    remember her.


    "Mr. Webster, happy birthday.¡± With professional smile stered on her face, Ranita paused before continuing. "My name is Ranita.¡±


    Diego nodded repeatedly, "What an elegant name!"


    After chatting for a bit longer, Diego chuckled at them, "Don''t talk too much with an old man like me: go have fun!"


    Brendon¡¯s seat was not far from the main table. Shortly after he sat down, Steve came over to greet him and took a seat next to Ranita. ¡°Ranita, how


    have you beentely?¡± he asked.


    I''ve been busy working on my thesis!" Steve was busy performing surgeries while also conducting academic research reports so he was indeed


    quite busy himself.


    "I''m doing welltely. Thank you Dr. Pearson!¡± Pausing for a moment, Ranita said again, "If there is anything I can help with, just let me know.¡±


    While Brendon talked with someone else nearby, Steve leaned closer asking, "Are you still vomiting these days?¡±


    Shaking her head, Ranita said, "It''s much better now."


    ¡°That''s great! Yasmin will be back


    soon so I''ll transfer your file over


    there then; ie need toe back w


    here at tte hospital anymore." x


    Tranqui+Valley Private Hospital''had


    closeties with Brendon; if it weren''t


    forSteve helping cover up things,


    Brendon might have known about


    her pregnancy sooner thanter.


    "Yasmin ising back? When?" Yasmin was Steve''s sister and a doctor, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. She went to the west for support


    some time ago.


    "She said she''ll probably be back in a week. Let''s wee her when shees back!"


    Ranita smiled and nodded. "Okay! We definitely have to do that. I haven''t seen her in so long!"


    Ranita was talking with Steve, not noticing that Brendon had been staring at her all along. Someone touched her shoulder lightly, causing her to react,


    "What''s wrong?¡±


    What''s wrong?Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Brendon''s forehead bulged with


    veins as hewondered how this


    woman ceuld ask him what was =>


    wrong. He pulled Ranita closer to~


    him, separating them from Steve,


    "What are you guys so happy


    about?¡¯


    swnovel. %


    "Just chatting," Steve smiled. "Brendon, we haven''t had a drink together in ages. Want to go sit over there?¡±


    As they walked away, Steve''s eyes grew colder, "Did you know that the Murphy family sent someone over here?"


    "You''re notclear about your


    rtionship with Shannon; what aie


    you going to do about Ranita?" The


    Murphy family kept a low profile but


    theywould definitely send sameone


    over for Diego''s banquet. Content


    b¨¦longs to  ~


    Brendon looked displeased, "Who from the Murphy family came?¡±

 Chapter 283 Virginia Murphy

    Chapter 283 Virginia Murphy


    Chapter 283 Virginia Murphy


    ¡°Virginia!¡± Steve paused before continuing, "She''s a powerful woman. If she takes her anger out on Ranita..."


    Steve looked over at Ranita but found that she wasn''t there.


    "Where is she?¡± Brendon furrowed his brow and was about to go look for her when Shannon came running over, panting and calling out to him ina


    sweet voice, "Brendon!"


    Suddenly, Shannon pressed herself against his chest.


    Brendon pulled away and said with concern, "Shannon, aren''t you feeling well? Don''t walk around like this. Go sit down and rest."


    ¡°Brendon, you really care about me! I¡¯m so touched!" Shannon blushed and acted coyly which made Steve roll his eyes in disbelief.


    "You guys talked huh?" Steve turned around to leave.


    "Steve... he left as soon as he saw me. Does he not like me?" Shannonined pitifully.


    Brendon felt annoyed but patiently exined, "No. He said he wanted to go talk to some friends.¡±


    "You should rest now." Brendon tried to get away from Shannon so he could find Ranita but she grabbed onto his arm saying, "Brendon... I''m not tired


    yet. I want to talk more with you! The doctor said that even though it''s early on in my pregnancy, the baby is healthy inside of me. I''m not fragile either


    so don''t worry!"


    Shannon spoke softly while leaning closer towards Brendon which drew the attention of many people present who watched them curiously or


    knowingly.


    Ranita had originally nned on sitting where she was but unfortunately saw Shannon walking towards her so she decided to leave the banquet hall


    for a bit instead.


    She found an empty corner where it was somewhat quiet despite the faint sounds of noise nearby.


    Ranita had just settled down when a tall figure emerged from the corridor, dressed in a suit that stood out from the rest of the attendees, immactely


    groomed, exuding an air of workce sophistication.


    She looked somewhat familiar.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The woman gave Ranita a once-over, her gaze devoid of any extra emotion, yet it still felt offensive to Ranita.


    Frowning, Ranita was about to leave when the woman took the initiative to sit in a nearby chair and gestured, "Sit!"


    Even while seated, the woman''s posture remained impably straight.


    "You''re Ranita, right?" Pausing for a moment, the woman introduced herself. ¡°I''m Virginia. You may not know me well, but Shannon is my cousin."


    Virginia?


    Ranita knew ofvirginia. She had


    considered.jaining the Department


    of Trantion and Interpretation <->


    before, _seshe asked her professor


    to introduce her to the people i inside.


    Virgiaia was a top trantoran the


    department.


    4


    The name matched the face.


    However, Virginia didn''t look much like Shannon. Ranita had never thought about it before.


    "Miss Murphy, I''ve heard your name before.¡± Ranita extended her hand after a moment''s hesitation. "Nice to meet you! I''m Ranita.¡±


    "The beauty of Kurima Foreign


    Studies University. I''ve heard your


    name too."Virginia smiled gently ~


    with dimples on her cheeks that _<


    made her¡¯ appear warmer than ~>


    usual\But soon enough, she _\¡¯


    stopped smiling and Spoke. with an


    igaposing tone, "Do you knaw


    Brendon''s rtionship with


    Shannon?"


    Ranita pursed her lips and looked straight at Virginia as she answered, "Friends?"


    "Friends? Is that what Brendon told you?" Virginia chuckled lightly and asked again. "I heard you''re getting a divorce from Brendon? You two don''t


    have any feelings for each other?"


    Ranita didn''t know how to answer this question.


    She remained silent.


    Virginia continued to smile,


    ¡®although don''t agree with 2


    Shanngit interfering between you


    and Brendon, she unexpectedly has


    a chitd now. I still hope they Can be


    together as a family of three."

 Chapter 284 Persuasion

    Chapter 284 Persuasion


    Chapter 284 Persuasion


    Virginia spoke at a moderate pace, but her tone was full of attitude. Every word hit Ranita¡¯s heart with rity.


    "You... you know about Shannon''s pregnancy, right?" Virginia asked in return.


    Ranita, the beauty of Kurima Foreign Studies University, was someone Virginia knew a little bit about. She actually liked Ranita because they were


    simr in nature. Unfortunately, she happened to be Shannon''s opponent.


    "Miss Murphy, are you here to convince me to divorce Brendon?¡±


    "Brendon''s heart isn''t with you anymore. What meaning does continuing this marriage have for you?" Virginia didn''t answer and instead kicked the


    question back at Ranita


    "I actually admire you! You shouldn''t waste your career on a man. Dying love and wasting your shart life, someone as smart as you shouldn''t do


    these foolish things.¡±Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Ranita was speechless.


    Virginia wasn''t necessarily saying anything outrageous but she just had to side with Shannon


    "Miss Bowman, I believe you can figure it out," Virginia raised her ss to her.


    "Virginia! What are you doing here?¡± Just then, a figure emerged from the dimness. Chris, dressed in a suit, frowned at Virginia. ¡°If there''s something,


    you should talk to Brendon instead of taking it out on her.¡±


    "Taking it out on her? Mr. Webster, do you know what I said to her?¡± Virginia rolled her eyes at Chris and walked away, huffing with anger.


    "Are you okay? Did Virginia give you a hard time?" Chris asked, concerned


    Ranita shook her head. "No! She didn''t give me a hard time."


    "Are you not busy? There are many guests today, so you must be tired," Ranita asked.


    Chris smiled gently. "They''re all acquaintances, so it''s alright." He paused and hesitated, "Shannon is here too. You haven''t run into her, have you?"


    Chris was genuinely worried about her.


    Ranita felt grateful deep down. "I''m fine. I''m used to it.¡±


    A simple statement of being used to it, but it carried so much heartache.


    Chris encouraged her, "Brendon is not someone whocks understanding. Maybe he has his reasons. You''ve been together for many years, so sit


    down and have a good talk when somethinges up."


    Chris felt like he was meddling too much.


    But seeing Ranita''s deste expression, he couldn''t bear it


    ¡°Thank you, Mr-Webster...


    understandiRanita ssused fora


    moment and suddenly remembered


    somethihg. "Mr. Webster, I haves


    somemoney on hand that I want to


    donate. Do you know any reliable


    charity workers?" Content. b¨¦longs to


    6


    ¡°You want to do charity work? Don''t you still have enough money after buying the sapphire ne before?"


    The matter of Wyatt''s will was not disclosed, so outsiders did not know that Ranita was now a real rich woman.


    Ranita smiled at his words and said, "I have enough! Don''t worry about it!"


    "Well then! Kora previously organized a charitable organization with some wealthy women to help women and children in need.¡± Chris took Ranita to


    find Kora.


    In the lounge, when Kora heard that Ranita wanted to donate money, she was so happy that she couldn''t stop smiling, "Ranita! You''re beautiful and


    kind-hearted. I really like you!¡±


    "Kora, don''t praise me too much. I''m starting to feel embarrassed.¡± Kora was good at everything except being too enthusiastic!


    Ranita wasnt stingy either, she said


    she woulddonate millions of dors


    for chafity work. This shocked Kora,


    "Ranita, don''t give away all your


    i on


    weatth, you still need money for your


    ows expenses.¡±


    ¡°


    But Ranita only said that she had enough money.


    Kora liked her.very much and


    suggested, "Ktow about joining our


    charity organization? We can use .


    part of tye money you donated for


    public y welfare projects while >


    investing another part in trustworthy


    investments. Then we can cbntinue


    Uging profits from these <>


    investments for public welfare...


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!