《Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan)》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    My name''s Aaliyah Wilburn, and I''m thirty years old.


    Among my peers, I''ve always been the object of envy - living in a detached house in the upscale area


    of Goldenvale Town, married to a handsome, considerate man who still loves me like it''s our first date.


    He''s universally praised as the epitome of a devoted husband.


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    His name is Jan Dawson, a well-known veteran stylist, and I used to run a medical equipment


    After marriage, I gave birth to three adorable children in quick session. As I juggled work and kids,


    Jan voluntarily resigned to help manage thepany, which flourished under his leadership. I


    decided to be a full-time housewife, enjoying life and raising our children, seen as the ultimate


    winner in life by others.


    But I noticed my body deteriorating day by day. My hair started falling out, I became more and more


    lethargic, my body was getting thinner, my memory was fading, and my mood was low. I was often in a


    daze.


    Jan said I have anxiety disorder. We consulted with countless doctors, and got me different


    medicines. My housekeeper, Zora, brew the herbal medicine for me every day.


    Little did I know that this was the beginning of a near-death experience.


    One day, I was awakened by a sharp pain in my head and identally knocked over the herbal


    medicine that Zora had brought me. Our greedy cat, Milo, licked up the spilled medicine while I was still


    battling sleepiness. By the time I realized what had happened, Milo had jumped onto the window ledge,


    contentedly grooming himself.


    When Zora came to collect the empty cup, I didn''t mention the spill, saving her the trouble of brewing


    more for me.


    To be honest, I was getting tired of taking the herbal medicine, which didn''t seem to help at all. If it


    wasn''t for Jan''s painstaking efforts in getting the herbs and reminding me to take it, I would''ve


    thrown it away.


    Ever since I fell ill, Zora had been shouldering the responsibilities of the household. She worked


    tirelessly, neverined, and sometimes, I felt a little guilty for burdening her.


    After a brief chat, she took the empty cup and went back to her chores.


    I turned to look at my pillow, covered in ayer of fallen hair. The sight was a bit shocking. I sighed,


    gathered the fallen hair, rolled it into a ball, and casually stuffed it into the pocket of my pajama.


    Suddenly, a thud came from behind, startling me!


    As I cautiously turned to the other side of the bed, I found Milo lying on the floor, spread-eagled and


    motionless,pletely silent. The sight of Milo gave me a bad feeling.


    "Milo!" I called out, but there was no response. A chill ran down my spine.


    This waspletely unlike Milo. Cats are known for their excellent bnce. How could he have fallen


    from the window ledge and ended up in this state?


    Is he...dead?


    My heart pounded as I carefully observed him. His heavy breathing suggested he was in a deep sleep,


    but his posture...Suddenly, a horrifying thought crossed my mind!


    I jumped off the bed and picked up Milo, who was limp and unresponsive,pletely defenseless.


    Involuntarily, I thought of myself. Was I also in the same state every day?


    Could it be...


    The thought sent a shiver down my spine. I couldn''t bear to think about it any longer!


    Before I could think further, I heard familiar footsteps from the hallway. It must be Jan...


    Instinctively, I held Milo and quickly climbed back into bed, pulling the nket over Milo''s odd state and


    pretending to sleep.


    At the same time, I heard the door handle creak. My heart pounded like a drum, and I could feel a gaze


    sweeping over my back. My hands trembled uncontrobly under the nket.


    But the anticipated footsteps did note closer. Instead, they retreated. Just as the door was about to


    close, I heard Jan asking, "Did she take the medicine?"


    Whatever he said next was muffled by the closed door.


    The next second, I abruptly opened my eyes. An unprecedented fear filled my soul, and I didn''t even


    know where I was. Was I in a dream, experiencing a nightmare?


    The current situation made me think of the spilled medicine.


    I had been taking care of Milo for many years, and he had never been in this state. The only difference


    today was that he had licked my spilled medicine.


    This thought terrified me. Could it be possible that someone is trying to harm me?

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    The images of my husband, Jan, and Zora, our housekeeper, kept shing before my eyes. I was


    trying to confirm my suspicions, while my heart was screaming denial.


    It''s impossible! Jan loved me. From the moment we met, fell in love, and started our family together,


    raising our three adorable kids, he has always been nothing but loving and attentive.


    He couldn''t possibly have done this to me.


    But then, Zora... I had no reason to suspect her. We didn''t know each other before she started working


    for us, and she was paid well above average for her excellent work as a housekeeper. She was two


    years older than me, always neat and efficient.


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    When I first brought her home, Jan seemed a bit wary, whispering, "Isn''t she a bit young? Can we


    trust her?"


    "Aren''t younger people supposed to be efficient? And she''s easy on the eyes. Plus, she''s a top-notch


    housekeeper, very qualified! You''re being too picky," I had teased him, adding, "She is such a hottie


    and if anyone should be worried, it should be me!"


    He had yfully pinched my cheek and drawled, "What are you thinking? Don''t take nonsense!" before


    pulling me into his arms, murmuring with a sigh, "Okay, if you''re happy, I have no objection. As long as


    she does her job well and doesn''t quit after a few months. That would be a real headache."


    And Zora has proven herself indeed ¨C it''s been almost eight years now. We''ve always gotten along


    well, treating each other like sisters. It was impossible that she''d drug me.


    And yet, if Zora was responsible, Jan would surely have noticed something was off about me after


    I''d taken the drug. He wouldn''t just...


    I couldn''t bear to think about it.


    I was wide awake that night, a stark contrast to my usual drowsy state. Was it because I hadn''t drunk


    the drugged medicine, or was it due to my heightened state of fear? Either way, the long, terrifying


    night was filled with dread and confusion.


    Fear kept my eyes wide open. It was an endless night. But what chilled me to the bone was the harsh


    reality that no one seemed to notice my state. Nobody cared to ask if I had eaten. I had to face the


    painful truth that my prior existence had been a lonely one, living in my solitary bubble, with not a soul


    caring for me.


    Jan, it seemed, did not care about me as deeply as he pretended. Just like tonight, the anticipated


    concern from my husband was noticeably absent. Had he grown ustomed to my frequent bouts of


    drowsiness?


    As dawn broke, our cat, Milo, who had been slumped in myp all night, began to stir. His eyes were


    groggy and he let out a couple of weak meows before stretching out and curling up again, still very


    much lethargic. His state was eerily simr to my usual wake-up state, which only deepened my


    suspicion.


    I buried my face into Milo''s soft fur, tears streaming silently down my cheeks. I didn''t understand why


    this was happening, or who was doing this to me.


    After a while, I cleaned my tears, steeled myself and decided that I couldn''t just sit around waiting for


    something to happen. I needed to find out the truth.


    I knew I had to be careful not to alert the perpetrator, so I decided to continue pretending to sleep. I


    needed to figure out who was drugging me and why.


    I was hoping that it was Zora. Somehow, it would be easier to ept that way.


    But reality pped me in the face, hard and cruel. The truth was far more painful and brutal than I


    could have ever imagined.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    After a sleepless night, I pretended to wake up feeling utterly drained, leaning against my bed. I knew it


    was time for my medication, and it wouldn''t be long before Zora showed up to administer it.


    When Zora opened the door, she paused, then gave me a gentle smile. "Madam, you''re looking good


    today! Quite lively, I must say. I''m pleasantly surprised."-


    I forced a chuckle, all the while watching her closely.


    While we talked, she quickly drew back the curtains and kindly draped a shawl around me. "Let''s get


    some fresh air in here."


    Feeling quite listless, I responded, "I''m a bit hungry."


    "Well, that''s excellent news! I''ll fetch your breakfast right away! It''s been a while since you said you


    were hungry!" With a beaming smile, she briskly walked out of the room, saying, "Just a moment!"


    As she passed by my bedside, a faint whiff of perfume filled the air. I had always been sensitive to


    smells, so I immediately recognized it as my favorite perfume, Chanel Chance.


    I clenched my fists, struggling to breathe.


    I thought about all those news stories about husbands and mistresses conspiring against wives. But


    that seemed far-fetched.


    A whileter, the door opened, and my husband Jan came in, carrying my medicine.


    His face was full of concern, and his smile was warm and gentle. As he approached me, bathed in the


    sunlight streaming in from the window, he looked radiant andforting. Thinking about the question


    he had saidst night - "Did she take the medicine?" - my heart sank.


    "Honey, you''re looking good today! Zora told me you were hungry?"


    He ced the medicine on the bedside table, took my hand, and looked at me with a tender gaze.


    "What would you like to eat, honey? I can cook it for you."


    "Never mind. I can''t eat much anyway. Don''t trouble yourself," I replied, trying to keep my emotions in


    check. "What time did you get homest night? I didn''t even notice. Are you busy at work?"


    "Well, it''s the season for product orders, so it''s quite busy. Lots of customers asking for quotes. I got


    home after Zora had given you your medicine. I checked on you, then worked in my study untilte. I


    slept there," he replied, yawning.


    Seeing his weary face, I felt a sudden pang of guilt. He wasn''t lying. Every year during the product


    orders season, he would have a pile of quote requests. He was still working hard for our family. How


    could I suspect him?


    The problem must be Zora.


    He picked up the medicine bowl, tasted it, and said, "It''s not hot. Just right. Come, you should get this


    medicine down before breakfast."


    I pretended to be impatient and said in my usual coquettish voice, "It''s not helping. I''ve taken so much


    of it, but I don''t see any improvement. I feel nauseous. Can I skip it, honey?"


    "Sweetheart, you need to take your medicine regrly. Look, you''re feeling better today. You haven''t


    felt hungry in a while, but you said you were hungry just now. This medicine seems to be working. The


    doctor adjusted the dosage the day before yesterday. Stay positive!" His voice was steady, and he


    didn''t miss a beat. He was still the loving husband who always put me first.


    Looking at his oblivious face, I felt torn. If I took the medicine, I would fall into a deep sleep. I wouldn''t


    be able to find any evidence or expose the person behind all this.


    "I don''t want to take it!" I said, leaning into him, my mind racing for a way to distract him.


    He patted my back with one hand and held the medicine up to my mouth with the other. "Good girl,


    take your medicine. We have to keep fighting."


    I felt desperate. There was no way out.


    "I can do it myself." I took the bowl from him reluctantly, my heart pounding.


    I was sure that if I took the medicine now, I''d be asleep within half an hour.


    But Jan was watching me, his eyes full of affection, the picture of a devoted husband. But his


    insistence made me suspicious. Why was he so adamant that I take the medicine?


    If it had been any other time, I would have been charmed by his loving gaze. But now, I saw a sharp


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    dagger behind that smile.


    And that dagger was inching closer to me, not out of concern, but to force me into submission.


    Feeling frantic and unable to voice my fears, I was worried that losing my temper would alert him. I had


    no choice but to pick up the medicine bowl¡­

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    Just when I thought I was cornered, Zora walked in through the door.


    Jan still had his eyes on me. I brought the medicine up to my lips and took a small sip. Only then did


    he smile in relief and turn his attention to Zora. He rose to ept the tray she was carrying.-


    As he stood to take the tray, his tall frame blocked Zora''s line of sight. I quickly tilted the bowl of


    medicine I was holding onto the dark floral-patterned nket that was draped over me, pouring it out.


    I then quickly brought the bowl back to my lips, pretending to take a big gulp. The remnants of the


    medicine still clung to the corners of my lips.


    In reality, I spat the medicine I had just taken a sip of, back into the bowl. It looked as though I had left


    some medicine in the bowl.


    Meanwhile, Jan had taken the tray from Zora and turned back around.


    I removed the nket from my body, cing it next to me, and handed the bowl back to Zora, saying,


    "I''ll handle it myself!"


    Jan looked at me approvingly, cing the food tray on the bedside table. He even leaned down to


    nt a kiss on my forehead before picking up the bowl of food to feed me.


    I feigned a blush and pushed him away, "You should get to work! Stop hovering!"


    He smiled, his eyes sparkling, and pinched my gaunt cheek, "Alright, I''ll head to work. Eat and rest


    well! I''ll try toe back early to spend some time with you and Carl!"


    Carl was our third child.


    "Okay!" I watched him, deliberately showing a hint of reluctance, "Go on then! Come back early


    tonight!"


    In reality, I was just afraid that he would straighten the nket next to me.


    He left without exchanging any nces with Zora.


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    The room was now left with just Zora and me.


    "Zora, has Carl not woken up yet?" I said nonchntly, trying to distract her.


    "I''ll go check on him now, take your time with the food. Call me if you need anything!" Zora turned and


    left.


    I listened to her retreating footsteps, forced myself to eat a few bites of food, and then got back into


    bed, pulling the nket over myself. I then ced the food tray on top of it and began to eat slowly.


    I didn''t have any appetite. I was trembling with anxiety, but I still forced food into my mouth.


    For one, I needed to eat to maintain strength from now on. Secondly, I was on guard ¨C there could be


    surveince in this room.


    I had once set up surveince cameras in every room for some form of security. After seeing too many


    unfortunate incidents, I had to be cautious.


    Little did I know that this woulde back to haunt me.


    Jan had onceined about the surveince in this room, jokingly saying that we had no privacy


    left. But I insisted, stating that I would only turn the cameras on when I wasn''t around, or during specific


    times.


    Over time, the surveince in this room was seldom used.


    However, I was unsure whether it was turned on now.


    After eating, I used the opportunity of clearing the food tray to tidy up the nket. I discreetly used a


    tissue to absorb the spilled medicine and quietly flushed it down the toilet.


    I yed with Carl for a while before pretending to be exhausted and returned to bed, continuing to feign


    sleep.


    I couldn''t let them notice any abnormalities, nor could they detect my suspicions.


    Truth be told, aside from Zora''s perfume, I didn''t sense anything amiss. There were too many usible


    exnations for the perfume scent.


    But pretending to be asleep was agonizing. To make it believable, I had to stay utterly still, eyes shut,


    constantly contemting all possibilities and nning my next move.


    My nerves were on edge, and my mind was stretched taut. Coupled with the creeping fear, I was wired.


    Yet, I had to maintain my sleeping posture, which was torture.


    At this moment, I realized that being awake was scarier than being unconscious.


    Perhaps it was due to the sleepless night before or the exhaustion from the heightened anxiety,


    coupled with my already weak body. After enduring for who knows how long, I finally fell asleep.


    But just as I was deep in sleep, my heightened senses told me someone was approaching.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    My consciousness snapped back into reality, but I remained still, keeping my breath steady and my


    eyes shut, listening to the approaching footsteps. I recognized them to be Zora''s.


    My hand, hidden under the nket, clenched involuntarily, sweat pooling in my palm.


    Although I was lying with my back to the door, I could sense her standing at the foot of my bed. I could


    feel her faint breaths and the subtle scent of her perfume.


    "Ma''am!" she called out softly.


    I didn''t respond, didn''t move.


    The next second, she touched my shoulder, her grip heavier than expected. Thankfully, I was prepared


    for it, or else I would have been exposed.


    "Your are sleeping like the dead!"


    She muttered, her voice barely audible, but it echoed in my ears like thunder. It wasn''t apliment, I


    could tell. Her tone was filled with disdain.


    My thoughts started to clear a bit. It was indeed Zora.


    Before I could confirm this thought, a terrifying scene unfolded before me, leaving me no time to react.


    A sharp pain shot through my scalp, causing me to moan instinctively. I was on the verge of being


    exposed.


    I suppressed it, shifting my head slightly to show difort, but I remained drowsy, not fully awake.


    But inwardly, I was falling apart. Injustice, anger, shock, a tidal wave of emotions crashing down on me.


    I wished I could cry, I was gritting my teeth hard.


    Zora, have I done anything wrong to you in these eight years? I treated you like a sister, and yet you


    treated me like this.


    I finally understood. Over the past few months, the needle-like pain that often appeared, piercing yet


    fleeting in my drowsy consciousness, I thought it was a dream.


    Who would have thought it was a cruel reality happening to me? No wonder the pain felt so real,


    lingering even after I''ve woken up.


    Perhaps seeing that I still hadn''t woken up, her hand smacked my face, "Wake up! It''s time to take your


    medicine!"


    Her voice was far from the usual softness, it was downright chilling.


    I was bewildered, I couldn''t believe that Zora could have done this to me.


    It wasn''t until another smacknded on my face that I realized I couldn''t pretend any longer.


    I stirred, letting out a soft moan, slowly opening my eyes, looking out the window in confusion. What on


    earth was happening? How did Zora, who seemed so gentle and honest, turn into a wicked woman?


    Zora''s voice rang out again, her tone had returned to its original softness, "Ma''am, time to wake up. It''s


    time for your medicine."


    "Uh..." I sighed,posed myself, and slowly turned over, staring nkly at Zora who was standing at


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    the foot of my bed, my eyes a little misty.


    Meeting my gaze, her smile faltered for a moment, then she said softly, "Ma''am, did you sleep well? Do


    you want me to help you sit up?"


    I didn''t take my eyes off her, I kept staring until she looked a bit tense, swallowed, and looked away. I


    then sighed in an aggrieved tone, "Zora, I''ve been thinking, do I have some serious illness that you all


    are hiding from me?"


    She nonchntly adjusted my nket, and said dismissively, "Ma''am, you''re overthinking. Everyone


    gets sick. You''re just worn out from childbirth. You''ll be fine after some rest."


    "Maybe, but why do I feel weaker each day? The sleep is so heavy, it feels like I''ve slept a lifetime. All I


    do is sleep and take medicine all day. Zora, I appreciate your hard work."


    "Ma''am, please don''t say that. It''s not hard, it''s my job!" She looked at me, "Sleeping helps you heal,


    don''t be scared! I''ll get your medicine, it''s most effective while hot!"


    She swiftly turned and walked out. I slowly sat up, staring nkly in the direction she left. I touched the


    spot on my scalp where I''d been pricked, quickly thinking about how I could dodge the impending dose


    of medicine.


    When I pulled my hand back, I saw a trace of blood on my fingertips. It was a small amount, but bright


    red.


    I wiped it away without changing my expression.


    Soon, Zora returned with the medicine and handed it to me, "It''s still hot, take it."


    I merely hummed in response, not taking the bowl. Instead, I raised my hand to the spot on my scalp


    that''d been pricked, then looked up at Zora, "Zora, can you look at this? It hurts here."

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    I saw Zora''s expression sh momentarily with surprise. She quickly set the medicine bowl on the


    bedside table and smiled at me, saying, "Let''s take a look, shall we?"


    Her smile, so seemingly warm, sent a chill down my spine.


    I pointed at the painful spot. "Right here!"


    She touched the spot lightly, even pretending to press on it. "Here? There''s nothing. What are you


    talking about?"


    I hissed in pain. "It''s here, it hurts!"


    "There''s nothing out of the ordinary!" Her hand roamed elsewhere on my body as she distracted me.


    "Any other diforts?"


    She was trying to divert my attention.


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    Sitting up straight, I kept touching on the painful spot and said, "That''s strange, I feel like my head''s


    been pricked with a needle. It''s been happening a lottely."


    "Looks fine... Probably just neuralgia. I sometimes get that too," she said, trying to reassure me.


    I cursed under my breath. My fingertips distinctly felt a grainy bump, and there was a trace of fresh


    blood. Yet she insisted there was nothing wrong. It was as if she was taking advantage of me not being


    able to see the area and lying straight to my face.


    After a while, I feigned deep thought and uttered, "Ah, I see."


    Perhaps she was feeling guilty. She told me, "Madam, have your medicine first. I need to check on


    Carl. He''s ying downstairs alone and I don''t feelfortable leaving him unattended."


    With that, she turned and left the room. Inwardly, I breathed a sigh of relief. This was the reaction I


    wanted. If not, she would have hovered until I finished the medicine.


    Fromst night to now, I had skipped two doses of the medicine and noticed a significant improvement


    in my mental rity. The drowsiness was less foggy and the fatigue had lessened. Even my heartbeat


    was back to normal.


    It seemed like I needed to stop taking the medicine. I suspected all my adverse symptoms were rted


    to it.


    I had to find a way to get the medicine tested. What was she making me drink?


    And I needed to figure out whether Jan knew about everything happening to me.


    But for now, how should I deal with this bowl of medicine?


    I looked up at the spot where the surveince camera used to be. I couldn''t let my guard down. I still


    didn''t know why Zora was doing this to me. What was her motive?


    I needed to find a safer way to dispose of the medicine. I couldn''t just keep pouring it on the nket.


    That wasn''t a long-term solution.


    Milo, my pet cat, came crawling out from under the covers and nestled into myp. An idea sparked in


    my mind. I picked up the bowl of medicine and, as expected, Milo recoiled and ran away, clearly


    repelled by the medicine.


    Casually, I set the bowl back on the bedside table, pretending to dust off my clothes as if I had spilled


    some medicine on myself.


    Then, I went to the bathroom to wash my face. As I was drying off with a towel, I quickly poured the


    medicine on the towel while my back was turned to the potential surveince spot. I even mimicked the


    action of taking the medicine.


    I casually walked back to the bathroom with the bowl and towel, quickly rinsed the towel, and then


    strolled out of the room with the bowl, heading downstairs.


    My heart was pounding like a drum. I never thought I''d be acting like this in my own home.


    Jan''s voice echoed from the staircase. I froze, my heart wrenched, and I found myself quickening


    my pace.


    This was an instinctive response, a dependence on him. After all, in this house, Jan was the closest


    person to me. For ten years, he had showered me with love and affection, cherished me like a gem.


    Everyone who knew us knew how much he treasured me.


    I desperately wanted to know if he was aware of the cause of my sickness, of me being helplessly


    tortured while unconscious in bed.


    Jan''s low murmur downstairs, along with Carl''sughter, almost brought me to tears.


    As I quickly descended the staircase, I looked up and was taken aback by the sight that greeted me. I


    was rooted to the spot, shocked by the scene unfolding before me.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    On the generous sectional in our living room, Jan was entertaining our youngest son, Carl, as Zora


    leaned naturally against him.


    It felt like a perfect picture of our life years ago when we first had Monique, our oldest daughter. The


    scene was a picturesque representation of a happy family, everything just seemed so harmonious and


    united.


    Suddenly, the bowl of medicinal I was holding slipped from my grasp, shattering on the tiled floor.


    All three people on the couch turned their attention towards me. Zora was quick to react, hurriedly


    running over to me. "Ma''am, why did youe down? I was about to get the bowl... be careful, don''t


    step on the shards!"


    Her reaction was so nonchnt, as if the intimate scene I''d walked in on was just a casual interaction


    among a couple. I was at a loss for words.


    Had our family be this harmonious?


    Jan also rose from the couch, holding Carl, and rushed towards me. "Allie, don''t move! Zora, what


    are you waiting for? Clean it up!"


    He looked panicked, shouting orders at Zora while constantly checking the floor for shards, worried I


    might step on one.


    Was the scene I just witnessed a figment of my imagination? Or had their rtionship really be so


    casual?


    Zora went to fetch a broom and carefully swept up the broken pieces around my feet, constantly


    apologizing and looking rather sheepish.


    I stood frozen on the spot, trying to digest the scene I had just witnessed.


    It wasn''t until Zora had cleared away the shards and Jan had put his arms around me that I snapped


    back to reality, looking at him in a daze.


    My longing to see him, my dependency, and the anxiety I felt had all evaporated, reced with a


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    burning question: weren''t they supposed to exin their behavior to me?


    Jan held me, who was stunned and motionless, as he handed Carl to Zora. Carl immediately clung


    to her, rubbing his little face against hers.


    Pushing Jan away, I took Carl from Zora''s arms, thinking to myself, "This is my child, not yours."


    Zora looked flustered. "Ma''am, I..."


    I had the urge to smack her across the face, but looking at Carl in my arms, I held back, reminding


    myself to stay calm.


    "Prepare dinner," I told Zora coldly. She nodded and headed towards the kitchen.


    Then I turned to Jan, asking him casually, "Honey, don''t you have a trade show to attend this


    afternoon? Weren''t you supposed to be back only in the evening?"


    Jan, acting as if nothing had happened, didn''t pay any special attention to Zora. He didn''t even


    nce at her as he sat down on the couch, wrapping his arms around me.


    Had he not noticed Zora''s closeness earlier? Or had he mistaken her for me?


    Ignoring my questioning gaze, he calmly responded, "Yeah, I was passing by after picking up some


    samples, so I thought I''d stop by and check on you, maybe grab a bite. You know, the moment I walked


    in, this little guytched onto me."


    His exnation was usible, and he didn''t mention the earlier incident, pretending as if it never


    happened.


    Was I overreacting, or had these close encounters be routine while I was unwell?


    Carl squirmed in my arms, reaching out for Jan and calling out for ''Mommy''.


    Jan took him from me, saying, "Let me take him. He''s getting heavy!"


    I felt upset. Carl was calling for Zora, not me.


    Ever since his birth, I had been sick, sleeping most of the time, and when I was awake, I would be


    disoriented. I had no strength to take care of him, so Zora had been his primary caregiver.


    After I fell ill, Monique was sent to a boarding school and our second child, Probert, was taken care of


    by his grandmother. Only Carl was still with us.


    As I watched Jan interact with our son, a horrible thought urred to me: Had Zora tampered with


    my medicine? What was her intention? Coveting my husband was bad enough, but was she also trying


    to take my children?


    This woman was a threat. I was terrified by the thought of her ulterior motives.


    She had to go. I couldn''t give her any more opportunities to wreak havoc in our family.


    With this resolution in mind, I put my thoughts aside and looked at Jan. He was deeply engrossed in


    ying with Carl, his love for Carl evident in every gesture.


    Watching their interaction, I felt somewhat guilty. A husband like Jan would never stoop so low as to


    have an affair with a nanny.


    However, Zora''s intentions were clear. This issue had to be resolved as soon as possible to prevent


    further damage.


    With my mind made up, I decided to test Jan. I started to speak, "Honey..."

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    As I was about to speak, Zora emerged with a baby bottle in her hand, "Sir, Ma''am, dinner is served!"


    I swallowed back the words I was about to say.


    I couldn''t act rashly before figuring out Jan''s intentions.


    After all, the scene just now had been quite strange.


    Moreover, Carl was still a baby, and he could hardly recognize who was his real mother. I was currently


    unable to take over the care of him, and if Zora dared to take action against me, she wouldn''t hesitate


    to do the same to a child who didn''t understand anything.


    I reached out to Zora, "Give me the bottle, I''ll feed Carl!"


    However, Carl was jumping for joy at the sight of Zora,pletely ignoring me and only had eyes for


    his ''mother figure''.


    Stubbornly, I tried to take Carl from Jan''s arms, but his little hand impatiently pushed mine away,


    repeatedly reaching out to Zora, calling for his ''mommy''.


    Jan lifted him up and handed him to Zora, then gently helped me up, "Let''s go eat, or else you''ll get


    tired. Food is more replenishing than medicine."


    This casual remark made my heart skip a beat. It seemed that Jan didn''t know the secret of the


    medicine, otherwise he wouldn''t say such a thing. His words clearly implied that I should eat more and


    take less medicine.


    Of course, his words also reminded me that I couldn''t appear too energetic. The lethargy after taking


    the medicine wasn''t my current state.


    So I had to give up, reluctantly watching Carl, secretly vowing to myself that the child was mine. I just


    needed to wait a little longer, wait until I could kick her out of my house, and my son would still be mine.


    Jan''s care made me eat a lot of food, which made him very happy. He kept staring at my face and


    smiling.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "What are youughing at?"


    "Silly girl, I''m just happy to see you have an appetite." Jan affectionately patted my hand on the


    table.


    "I feel like you''re stuffing me like a Thanksgiving turkey. I think I ate too much." I slumped in my chair,


    looking sickly.


    Honestly, theck of energy wasn''t an act.


    Long-term medication and constant sleepiness had overtaxed my body. I was all too familiar with what


    it felt like to be weak and unable to resist the wind. As soon as I stood up, my heart would race, and I


    had no strength.


    Although I hadn''t taken the medicine for these three meals, I could clearly feel that my energy level was


    much better, but I was still short of breath and very weak.


    "Are you tired?" Jan looked at me with concern.


    I nodded immediately, putting on the act of being too tired to even hold up my head, and copsed on


    the edge of the table, "I feel sleepy!"


    Jan picked me up without a word, "I''ll take you back to the bedroom."


    I wrapped my arms around his neck, feeling a little bitter. I couldn''t remember thest time he treated


    me like this. I couldn''t help but feel moved and blurted out, "Honey, when will I get better? I feel weaker


    and weaker. I should be feeling better after taking all this medicine."


    "Don''t rush it. You''re already showing progress¡ªyou can evene downstairs now!" He said, giving


    me a meaningful look.


    I felt a pang of anxiety. His reply didn''t sound right. Was I not even supposed to be able toe


    downstairs?


    I decided to stay quiet, leaning weakly against him.


    As we left the dining room, I saw Zora feeding Carl out of the corner of my eye. She nced at Jan,


    who was carrying me.


    Jan carried me upstairs and set me on the bed, where I was already ''half-asleep''.


    He pulled a nket over me but didn''t leave. He just stood by my bed, watching me. Even with my


    eyes closed, I could feel his gaze.


    Strangely enough, his stare made me feel ufortable. There was no warmth in it.


    His gaze lingered for about ten seconds, then I heard him call my name, "Allie."


    I didn''t respond or move, pretending to be fast asleep.


    The next second, I felt him leaning close to me. His warm breath was on my face, and I dared not


    move.


    My intuition told me there was something off about his actions.


    After a moment of silence, which felt like an eternity to me, myst illusions about Jan were


    shattered.


    I heard Zora''s voice, she whispered, "Is she asleep?"


    The breath on my face receded, and I heard the sound of their footsteps leaving. Then I heard a


    warning that made my blood run cold, "Keep an eye on her! She''s been acting strange these past few


    days!"


    I didn''t hear what they said next. I felt like I had fallen into a freezing abyss. Even though I was covered


    with a nket, I couldn''t stop shaking.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    I wasn''t sure if I was terrified or angry, a lump of emotion sat heavily in my throat, causing my vision to


    blur and my head to spin. I wanted to roar, to express my indignation, but I was too afraid. I had no idea


    what they would do if they found out the state I was in.


    My home, my kids, ten years of my life...


    I bit down hard on my nket to prevent myself from crying out. A decade''s worth of memories whirled


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    around in my mind, making it difficult to breathe. The next thing I knew, everything went ck.


    When I woke up, my mind was sharp and clear. I couldn''t just lie there, waiting to be forced to take the


    medicine. I had to know the truth. Infidelity was one thing, but poisoning me? They clearly wanted me


    dead.


    This was a dire situation, and I knew I had to fight back.


    My eyes darted to the corner of the room, where, I was certain, Jan had installed a surveince


    camera after noticing something was off with me. I needed to disable it without them noticing.


    But under their watchful eyes, it felt nearly impossible to carry out my n undetected.


    Unexpectedly, I caught a lucky break.


    In the evening, I heard Zora''s voice faintly from the hallway, followed by the sound of Jan on the


    phone. He hade back early or perhaps never left.


    His voice was loud, and I could hear him clearly. Apparently, the whole neighbourhood was


    experiencing a ckout.


    I felt a surge of excitement. This was my chance. Just as I was about to get up, the sound of the door


    handle turning made me quickly lie back down and hold my breath.


    The room was dark, and I squinted to see Jan peeking in before quickly backing out.


    The door wasn''t shut properly, and I could hear Zoraining, "Why is there a ckout? Dinner


    isn''t ready yet! What did the property management say? When will power be restored?"


    "Not sure, they''re looking into it. If it''s not back soon, we''ll just go out to eat," Jan said nonchntly.


    "Really?" Zora sounded excited. "But her medicine isn''t ready yet!"


    "We''ll deal with it when we get back. Seems like she won''t be waking up anytime soon."


    "I''ll go change Carl''s clothes," Zora said as her footsteps quickly retreated.


    Soon I heard the sound of a car starting from downstairs.


    My heart sank as a hot tear slipped down my cheek.


    But I didn''t have time to dwell on my feelings. I quickly got up, my heart pounding from both excitement


    and fear, my legs shaking with weakness.


    I dragged a chair over, climbed onto it to check the camera. It was still there. I took it down, examined


    it, but had no idea how to disable it without leaving visible damage.


    In desperation, I rushed to the bathroom, filled the sink with water, and tossed the camera in.


    Then I hurried back to my bedside table to find my phone. It had been so long since Ist used it, I had


    no idea where it was. I needed to call Catherine Damon, my only trusted friend in Goldenvale Town,


    and ask for her help.


    But I couldn''t find my phone anywhere. I searched all the drawers, the gaps between the furniture, the


    shelves¡­ I was exhausted but it was nowhere to be found.


    My heart was pounding like a drum, I copsed onto the bed, gasping for breath. I wiped away the tear


    that had trickled down my cheek and cursed my current predicament.


    After a moment, I took a deep breath, gritted my teeth, and carefully peeked out of the door. The house


    was eerily quiet, shrouded in growing darkness.


    I slipped out of the room like a ghost.


    Barefoot, I made my way to Jan''s study. I had to find my phone before the power came back on, or I


    would lose my only chance to contact the outside world.


    I headed straight for his desk. Hisputer was still warm, indicating he had been using it recently.


    I bent down to open the drawers, hoping to find my phone, but realized they were all locked. He never


    used to lock his drawers. In my frustration, I stomped my foot.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    I rummaged through his pen holder, no luck. It was improbable that he''d be carrying around all the keys


    that were usually there.


    My eyes darted to the corner, falling on the safe. The key to the safe.


    I swung around and headed straight for the gilded statue by the entrance, towering as high as a man.


    There was an obscure ornament at its base that I pressed hard. With a click, the base sprung open. I


    quickly reached in and found a set of keys.


    I paused, he hadn''t moved them. For a fleeting moment, a question shed through my mind: who was


    he locking his study against?


    Because the hiding spot for these keys was my idea.


    The hiddenpartment was ingeniously designed, almost impossible to discover. He agreed


    enthusiastically when I suggested it, and only Jan and I knew about it.


    He must have assumed that I spend all day sleeping like a log, so there was no need to change the


    location. But who was he keeping this secret from?


    I didn''t have time to ponder. I rushed back to the desk, using the smallest key to unlock the drawer. The


    lock opened with a satisfying click.


    Just as predicted, in the second drawer on the right, I found my phone and tablet. I quickly reached out


    and grabbed them. My phone was turned off. My hands shaking, I quickly pressed the power button.


    As I waited for it to boot up, I opened Jan''sputer, nning to check the home surveince


    footage. I entered the familiar password for the webpage, but it showed that I had entered it incorrectly.


    He had changed the password!


    I tried numerous times, all resulting in failure. I couldn''t ess hisputer.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Damn you, Jan! I smacked theputer hard in my frustration, the loud sound startling even myself.


    I picked up my phone, and it also showed that the password was incorrect. He had even changed my


    phone''s password.


    Fortunately, when I got this phone, I had recorded my fingerprint. I used it to unlock my phone.


    I quickly checked the battery level, it was almost dead. The most recent call in the call history was from


    my mom. Tears blurred my vision instantly.


    I so wanted to call my mom, but I couldn''t. Firstly, I knew I wouldn''t be able to control my emotions, and


    I didn''t want to worry her. Secondly, I was afraid the battery might run out. The most important thing


    now was to contact Catherine.


    Without thinking, I went to the numerous missed calls and directly dialed Catherine''s number.


    But as soon as I did, I immediately ended the call. No, I couldn''t call her directly, it would be too easy to


    trace.


    I quickly opened WhatsApp, finding Catherine''s ount without any difficulty. She had sent me


    countless messages. I didn''t have time to go through them and directly made a voice call.


    It took a while for her to pick up, and when she did, she sounded furious. "Aaliyah, so you finally


    remembered me, huh? I thought you were dead. If I didn''t hear from you soon, I was going to start


    nning your funeral..."


    I quickly cut her off, "Catherine, listen to me¡­"


    As soon as I started talking, I broke into a sob, "¡­I¡­ I need your help!"


    "Aaliyah? What''s going on? ¡­Don''t cry, what happened? Speak up, you''re making me nervous!"


    I took a deep breath, steadying myself, "Catherine, don''t ask now, it''s a long story. You need to help


    me. I can''t exin everything over the phone, but listen..."


    I started rambling, not even sure what I was saying myself.


    Catherine seemedpletely lost and interrupted me, "Aaliyah, have you gotten into some sort of


    trouble?"


    "Yes, I''m in trouble¡­"


    At this point, I saw no reason to hide my ordeal any longer. I quickly exined my situation and how


    she could help, and then the phone made a small noise and turned offpletely due to low battery.


    For a while, I sat there stunned, there were still so many things I hadn''t exined. I let my hand fall


    helplessly, reluctantly cing the phone back in the drawer. I couldn''t make Jan suspicious before I


    found any evidence.


    I wanted to see what else he had hidden in the drawers that he felt the need to lock them even at


    home. But then, the lights flickered before plunging back into darkness.


    Crap, the power was about to restore.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    I stomped my foot in frustration. It was toote. If the power came in now, and the hallway surveince


    was restored, I''d be exposed.


    In a flurry of motion, I returned everything to its original state, locked the drawer, did a quick check on


    the desk, and swiftly ced the set of keys back into the secretpartment of the statue. Then, I


    darted out of the study, scampering back to the master bedroom.


    My heart was pounding like a ticking bomb. A metallic, salty taste bubbled up my throat. Just as I was


    about to copse onto the bed, I remembered the camera still soaking in the water.


    I rushed into the bathroom, snatched the camera from the water, shook it a few times, and then


    squeezed it in a towel, praying it was beyond repair after its ''drowning''. I then ced it back in its


    original position, pushed the chair back to the vanity, and copsed onto the bed, gasping for air like a


    fish on drynd.


    Suddenly, a wave of sadness washed over me. I stared wide-eyed into the darkness, despair and


    helplessness pressing in on me from all sides. I couldn''t hold it in any longer and broke down in tears,


    all while keeping an ear out for any sounds outside, fearing they''d return and catch me in my moment


    of weakness.


    The next day.


    I woke up early, roused by hunger. I hadn''t eaten dinner the previous night, and Zora hadn''te to


    give me my medication.


    I had no idea what time they hade back, or when the power had been restored. Perhaps I had


    cried myself to exhaustion, or knowing that I had been able to contact Catherine brought me some


    peace. I had surprisingly slept well that night.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    When Zora came in with my medication, I casually asked her, "Did I not have dinnerst night? Why


    am I so hungry?"


    Hearing my words, Zora chuckled and responded, "You had too littlest night. You said you were too


    full from lunch and couldn''t digest more."


    I choked on my words, my fists clenching in anger. I cursed her silently, swearing that she would pay


    for this someday.


    "Just leave it there. I need to use the restroom first. Can you bring me a ss of milk?" I instructed her,


    throwing back the covers and getting out of bed.


    As soon as I heard her leave, I quickly dampened a towel, wrung it out, and poured the medication into


    it. To make it look convincing, I pretended to take the medicine.


    Back in the bathroom, I quickly washed the towel while thinking that I needed to save some medication


    for Catherine to run the test.


    Just as I got back into bed after washing the towel, Zora came back with the milk and sneakily nced


    at the medication bowl.


    I took the milk from her and casually asked, "Where''s Jan?"


    "He''s out!" she answered while scolding Milo, "Milo, you''re misbehaving. Get down now!"


    I looked up to see Milo perched on top of the cab, looking down at Zora with an air of indifference.


    My heart leapt with joy.


    This cat was indeed my lucky charm, a guardian angel sent by the universe.


    Zora gave Milo a helpless look, muttering under her breath as she took the bowls and walked out,


    saying, "Breakfast is ready!"


    I wasn''t sure if it was just my imagination, but her attitude seemed more arrogant than usual. It felt like


    a direct challenge.


    I beckoned for Milo while getting out of bed and walking to the disy cab. I pretended to talk to


    him to get him down, while throwing a book not where Milo was, but at the surveince camera. The


    noise scared Milo, who immediately jumped down from the cab.


    I picked up Milo and kissed him, praising him in my mind. "Good job, my Milo. You''re my ace in the


    hole!" But out loud, I told him, "Don''t climb up there again!"


    But I was certain that this room was safe now.


    I absentmindedly ate breakfast, careful not to eat too much to avoid raising suspicions.


    As noon approached, I longed for Catherine''s arrival. But despite waiting all day, there was no sign of


    her.

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    A hopeful heart was left hanging. Why hasn''t shee? Did she misunderstand my call yesterday? Or


    was she held back by something? Or...


    I was on edge, even beginning to doubt, could Catherine have been deceived by Jan?


    After all, because of me, Catherine and Jan had a pretty good rtionship, and I hadn''t seen Jan


    all day.


    I was wide awake all night, thinking, if even Catherine wouldn''t lend a hand, who else could I trust? The


    more I thought, the more helpless I felt, staring till dawn.


    Just when I was getting sleepy, I was awakened by a mor.


    It seemed like someone hade to the house. Could it be Catherine?


    I listened carefully, but the voices were men''s, and there seemed to be more than one.


    Their voices ebbed and flowed below, then they started moving upstairs, talking as they walked, but I


    couldn''t make out what they were saying.


    Suddenly, my door was pushed open, and I sat up in rm.


    I saw Zora walk in with a man in work clothes, carrying a toolbox. They were talking as they entered,


    but the moment they saw me, they stopped abruptly, the worker''s eyes filled with shock.


    N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    I guess they didn''t expect someone in the room, or maybe my appearance was too grotesque and


    shocked him.


    Zora quickly exined, "Mydy is sick, let''s not disturb her! Do you... need to check here too?"


    The man nodded, his voice firm, "Yes, we need to check everywhere!"


    Then he retreated.


    I quickly asked Zora, "What''s going on? Who are they?"


    Zora nced at me and replied indifferently, "Neighborhood maintenance, they are checking the


    electrical circuits. You can lie down!"


    I gave a disappointed "oh", andid back down with a sigh.


    Of course, the power outage yesterday must have called for an inspection.


    Zora casually closed the door and followed him out, saying to the man, "Be careful not to break


    anything! Why so much trouble, you have to check every room? It''s not our fault!"


    I heard the man say, "Of course we have to check every room. We''re testing if the lines have aged,


    looking for any irregr connections, and eliminating potential hazards. Don''t worry, it''ll be quick."


    Carl''s crying came from downstairs, and Zora urgently called out to the man, "Hurry up! Don''t touch


    anything here! Ah... that''s the study, just check that. I need to go downstairs... hurry up, please!"


    Then I heard the sound of Zora running downstairs.


    I had to admit, Zora was quite attentive to Carl.


    Just then, the door was flung open again, and I was startled to see the same man rushing towards my


    bed...


    The man barged in, his stride quick towards me. I was so scared I almost screamed, but heard him


    whisper, "Shh, quiet!"


    Then he opened the toolbox he was carrying, took out a phone from inside, and handed it to me,


    whispering, "It''s from Catherine!"


    With that, he turned and left quickly.


    I watched his retreating figure in shock, quickly hiding the phone in my nket. I stared at the door, still


    reeling from the shock, my heart pounding painfully.


    Catherine, he''s Catherine''s man!


    In that moment, I was overjoyed, almost crying. Finally, someone was helping me, finally, I could


    contact the outside world.


    Lying in bed, I suppressed my tears, a surge of strength welling up. With the phone, I felt reinvigorated.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    I heard those people leave quickly. In a short while, Zora walked in, holding Carl in one arm and a bowl


    of medicine in the other. She set the bowl down and said to me, "Drink up. I''ll be back for the bowl


    With that, she hurried out without waiting to see if I would take the medicine.


    I stared at the bowl in deep thought. I had to prepare the medicine and send it out, in case I didn''t get


    another chance.


    With that in mind, I quickly got out of bed and started going through my things, but I couldn''t find any


    container suitable for the medicine.


    I looked at my skin care bottles and containers, realizing that even if I emptied them, any residual


    cosmetics could interfere with any tests conducted on the medicine. Besides, if Zora noticed anything


    missing, I would be in trouble.


    From the scent of her perfume, I knew she was familiar with my skin care products.


    In a panic, I paced around the room. Zora coulde back for the bowl at any moment, and if I was


    toote, I would have to take the medicine.


    Just as I was about to dump the medicine in desperation, an idea hit me. I pulled open the bedside


    drawer, and took out a box.


    I pulled out a condom, took the bowl to the bathroom, and poured the medicine into the condom. Then,


    I tied the open end, making a warm, medicine-filled sausage.


    Perfect!


    I hid the condom andy back on the bed, trying to calm my racing heart.


    After a bite of breakfast, I said to Zora in a listless tone, "I''m going to take a nap. Please don''t let


    anyone disturb me. It''s too early for all this noise!"


    I figured my sleep-deprived look wouldn''t need much acting.


    Back in my room, I eagerly took out the phone, connected to the WiFi, and opened up WhatsApp. The


    only contact on there was Catherine, which told me it was a new number.


    I set my phone to silent mode, just in case, and sent Catherine a message asking why she hadn''te


    today.


    Catherine responded immediately with a voice message. I yed it on the lowest volume, holding the


    phone to my ear. In the message, I could hear Catherine''s frustrated voice. "Don''t get me started. I


    went yesterday, but that nanny wouldn''t let me in. She said the boss had taken you abroad for


    treatment and you hadn''te back yet!


    I''ve tried to find you at your ce before, but she always brushed me off. I actually believed her. Your


    phone was always off, and when it was on, no one would answer!


    If you hadn''t called me yesterday, I would have believed her lies and thought you were really abroad. I


    didn''t want to disturb your rest due to the time difference, so I didn''t call you back!"


    I was overjoyed and responded quietly, "I thought you didn''t hear what I said yesterday! I didn''t expect


    the repairman to be your arrangement."


    Upon hearing this, Catherine immediately called me via video. I quickly muted the phone and listened


    for any sound outside. When I was sure it was quiet, I answered the call...


    In the video, when Catherine saw my haggard face, her reaction was extreme. She stared at the


    screen in shock for a moment before eximing, "Aaliyah! You look..."


    I knew it was my worn-out appearance that had shocked her. Seeing her reaction, I burst into tears and


    couldn''t speak.


    Catherine, on the other hand, was furious. "Call the police, Aaliyah! What are you waiting for?"


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I cleaned my tears and shook my head. "It''s not time yet. I don''t have enough evidence. What am I


    supposed to report?"


    "We can''t let those bastards get away with this!" Catherine was livid. "That heartless man... You''re not


    protecting him, are you, Aaliyah? He''s holding you captive. What are you waiting for? You''ll be dead if


    you wait any longer! I know him better than anyone else. If it weren''t for you, Aaliyah, he would be


    nothing more than a well-known hairdresser. What does he have?


    He could spend his entire life styling hair and still not be where he is today. I''m not ming you, but you


    should never have given him yourpany!"


    "That is why I need to know what Jan is up to. I need the truth. Why are they doing this to me?" I


    choked up a bit, then whispered fiercely, "I won''t just ept this. I''ll make them wish they were dead,


    I''ll get my revenge!"

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    There was indeed a nagging obsession in my heart. Even if Jan cheated on me, I could take it. But


    what I couldn''t figure out, and what I couldn''t ept, was why he would stab me in the back so


    viciously. Without his permission, Zora wouldn''t dare to hurt me with that long needle.


    Every time I thought of this, I wanted to tear Zora apart. "Don''t worry," I muttered to myself, "I''ll make


    sure they pay tenfold."


    "Tell me what you need from me, Aaliyah. You can count on me, even if it costs me my life. I''ll help you


    get justice," Catherine said with a firm voice, "We need to investigate thoroughly. Who knows what''s


    happening with yourpany right now, Aaliyah. Do we proceed?"


    "Yes! Right now, the only chance I have at taking down Jan is to gather concrete evidence against


    him. Otherwise, the one going down will be me," I said, well aware of the dangerous situation I was in.


    "By the way, how did you think of letting the repairman in? Can we trust him?"


    "Absolutely. When I found out I couldn''t get in, I was desperate for another method. When I was


    leaving, I noticed that repairmen were fixing the electricity after yesterday''s ckout in the park, so I


    arranged for someone to go in."


    After calming myself down, I shared my doubts and thoughts with Catherine. She nodded solemnly,


    "You can count on me. But you must ensure your safety. Keep me updated, and if anything feels off,


    call me or the police immediately."


    She asked for a few more details before hanging up. I let out a sigh of relief and steadied my nerves.


    I hadn''t seen Jan in two days. Could he be out of town?


    Deep down, I had this unsettling feeling that things were moreplicated than I''d anticipated. I


    couldn''t believe that Jan would do this to me over a nanny.


    "Keep an eye on her! She''s been acting strange these past few days." His words echoed in my mind,


    and I knew they meant more than what met the eye.


    Moreover, he never used to lock up his study. This action alone suggested that there was a bigger


    secret at y.


    I decided it was time to review all the security footage at home. Plus, I could use the cameras to keep


    tabs on them.


    But to ess the old footage, I needed to get into hisputer to view the original records. How could


    I manage that?


    I sent another message to Catherine, who assured me to wait patiently.


    I took a short rest, careful not to fall into a deep sleep and always alert to any sounds outside.


    When I woke up, I realized how terrifying the situation was.


    Firstly, I noticed an abnormal weakness in my body. My heart was failing me, and I suspected that


    something was wrong with it. Additionally, my calves were severely swollen, and I had a strong urge to


    urinate but barely could. My face was also bloated, which I guessed were symptoms of kidney failure.


    Looking at my swollen face in the mirror, I felt a chill run down my spine. If it hadn''t been for my cat Milo


    drank my medicine in ident, I wouldn''t have known what happened to me.


    N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    The only silver lining was that after stopping the medication for three days, my hair loss had


    significantly reduced, and my appetite was returning.


    To avoid arousing Zora''s suspicions, I made use of the hair I had previously collected. I made a show


    of collecting my fallen hair for Zora to see.


    Whenever she lingered too long in my room, I''d pretend to feel pain from the injection site, and she''d


    leave out of guilt.


    In the afternoon, the electrician showed up again. Zora seemed suspicious and tailed him, questioning


    why he had to check the wiring again.


    I knew Catherine had sent him to retrieve the medication, but Zora was sticking to him like glue, not


    giving him a chance to be alone with me.


    At that moment, I was pretending to be unconscious and dared not make any sudden movements.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    The repairman was calm, after meticulously scanning the room with his equipment. He then turned to


    Zora, who had been shadowing him the whole time, and asked, "Miss, could you please flick off your


    circuit breaker for a minute? I need to test this location."


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Are you sure it''s here?" Zora asked impatiently. "There''s nothing wrong with my house."


    "I need to cut the power to confirm," the repairman exined, "If we don''t run these tests now, we


    might have toe backter. It''s just precautionary. Regr tests like these can prevent sudden


    power outages that disrupt everyone''s life. And you won''t have toin about us not doing our


    jobs."


    "Fine, just hurry up. This is so annoying..." Zora''s grumbled, her voice gradually fading away.


    I quickly went to the bathroom, grabbed the "medicine sausage", and handed it to the repairman. He


    gave me a puzzled look before epting it.


    His expression made me feel awkward, but there wasn''t much I could do. I was just trying to survive. If


    there had been any proper containers avable, I wouldn''t have had to use a condom. Super


    embarrassing.


    Before I could dwell on it, I heard Zora''s footsteps approaching. I quickly returned to my bed and barely


    had time to cover myself with the nket before she entered the room.


    The repairman finished his work, gave somest instructions, and finally left. Zora lingered for a while,


    watching me. She even nudged me with her hand to see if I was awake. Seeing no signs of


    consciousness, she muttered something under her breath and left, mming the door behind her.


    With everything back to normal, I let out a sigh of relief. I took out my phone and checked the


    surveince footage. As soon as I got my hands on the phone, I had installed the surveince app that


    connected to the house.


    In the footage, I saw Zora enter Carl''s room. It was his nap time. She seemed to be very caring


    towards Carl, not missing a beat.


    Then I saw her leisurely close the door and leave the house. When she returned, her arms were full of


    groceries. She must have gone to the market.


    I mentally noted the time she left the house. When she left for the market the next day, I turned off the


    surveince and sneaked into Jan''s study again. However, I couldn''t find the key in the secret


    This made me uneasy. Had Jan noticed that his key had been moved, or why else would he have


    taken it?


    After searching in vain, I gave up. I went downstairs to test the front door lock, and sure enough, it was


    locked from outside. I was trapped inside.


    Catherine was right, I was under house arrest, and to the outside world, I was out of the country getting


    medical treatment.


    It seemed like they had everything nned out perfectly. Even if I died, no one would know.


    On the fourth evening, Jan, who had been absent for days, finally showed up.


    He came straight to my room and sat at the edge of my bed, staring at my ''sleeping'' form for a long


    time.


    It wasn''t until Zora called him for dinner that he got up. I peeped through my half-closed eyes, and just


    as he reached the door, he turned back, giving me a sinister smile. That smile sent a chill down my


    spine.


    At that moment, my hidden phone buzzed silently. I quickly took it out and swiped open a video call. On


    the screen, a puzzled Catherine was looking at me. "Aaliyah, the test results are in. The medicine... it''s


    just a dietary supplement. It won''t harm you."


    "What?" I sat up in shock, murmuring, "That''s impossible!"

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    This revtionpletely blindsided me. It was absolutely mind-boggling. Could it really be some sort


    of supplement? If it was, then why on earth had it transformed me into this state?


    I shook my head vehemently at the Catherine in the video call screen, "It''s impossible, absolutely


    impossible. My cat''s condition after taking the medicine is exactly the same as my previousatose


    states. I watched the entire process with my own eyes, how could there be no issue? Catherine..."


    I stuttered, my gaze fixed on the Catherine in the video.


    Catherine asked impatiently, "What is it, spit it out, you''re killing me here!"


    "Are... are you sure the person you let in is reliable?" I asked cautiously, after all, the only person who


    had handled the tonic when it was out of my sight was the repairman.


    "Absolutely! He''s Ronan Stewart''s cousin!" Catherine replied with certainty.


    "Ronan?" My heart skipped a beat.


    "Yes!" Catherine chuckled awkwardly, exining, "Aaliyah, you know how important it is to find


    trustworthy people for such tasks, so... he''s definitely reliable!"


    "That''s odd then!" I murmured weakly, not pursuing the matter further.


    My head buzzed and my scalp tingled. Had they discovered that I was conscious? Otherwise, how


    could there be nothing wrong with the medicine?


    The image of Jan''s wicked grin shed in my mind, sending chills down my spine.


    "Catherine, help me track Jan''s whereabouts for the past few days, as detailed as possible. Also...


    please find aputer technician as soon as possible. I want to ess Jan''sputer. He has


    changed his password, and I can''t get in!"


    "Alright, I''ll figure something out. Just stay safe!" Catherine reminded before ending the call.


    After hanging up, I reviewed everything in my mind. I had been extremely careful at every step, there


    was no way I could have slipped up.


    Could it be that I scared Zora when I showed her my injured scalp and she backed off?


    No, I can''t allow things to spiral out of control. I need to take the initiative.


    I pulled out my phone and switched to the live surveince feed. It waste and only the hallway lights


    were on, casting a dim tranquility. It seemed everyone was asleep.


    I scrolled back through the surveince footage and saw Jan carrying Carl to the kids'' room. After


    leaving the kids'' room, he went straight to Zora''s room.


    I had been prepared for this, knowing that Jan had cheated. But seeing it with my own eyes, I


    couldn''t help but clench my fists, my hands trembling with rage.


    I forced myself to continue scrolling through the footage. There was no sign of him leaving that room.


    I thought to myself, "Jan, for all our ten years of marriage, you stooped so low as to get involved with


    the nanny. That''s bad enough, but to harm me the way you did, it''s simply unforgivable. I will not let you


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    get away with this."


    With a fierce determination, I threw off the nket covering me, got out of bed barefoot, and quietly left


    the room. I was certain that I would find the evidence I needed in his study.


    I paused at the door of the study, listening to the silence. I pushed open the door and quickly stepped


    inside. The room was pitch ck, but as soon as I stepped inside, the lights flickered on, blinding me.


    Shielding my eyes, I saw Jan sitting on the couch, watching me with a dark, unreadable gaze. I was


    frozen on the spot, as if struck by lightning.


    Wasn''t he supposed to be in Zora''s room?

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    I couldn''t believe what was happening right in front of my eyes. The surveince footage clearly


    showed him entering Zora''s room and never leaving, yet here he was.


    N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    I was rooted to the spot, staring at him in shock. He was staring back at me, his gaze unwavering.


    Then, he slowly rose to his feet.


    The next moment, I burst into tears. I stumbled towards him, throwing myself into his arms. My arms


    wrapped tightly around his neck as I clung to him, sobbing my heart out.


    "Let''s see who''s the better actor," I thought.


    Jan stiffened at first, then his arms encircled my waist. He looked down at me, a hint of doubt in his


    eyes.


    "Honey...where did you go? I couldn''t find you. Someone was chasing me...they...they stuck needles in


    me!" I sobbed out my story, ying my role to the hilt. "My head...it hurts, they punctured me...it hurts


    so much. Don''t leave me, please..."


    "Shhh, I''m here. Don''t worry, I''m right here," he soothed, hisrge hand gently rubbing my back.


    "But I couldn''t find you...where were you?" I continued to sob, hitting his chest lightly. "Someone was


    bullying me...it was so dark, I was scared...I couldn''t see you!"


    I rambled on purpose, but the tears were real. I couldn''t believe that this warm embrace was no longer


    mine. What was happening to our family? Where was the man who used to take care of me so well? All


    the humiliation, fear, and helplessness I had felt over the past few days came pouring out.


    "Why...?" I almost blurted out the question I wanted to ask him.


    "I...I..." I covered my slip-up with another bout of crying, touching the spot where I''d been pricked. "It


    was a long needle...it hurts so much!"


    My heart-wrenching sobs drained me, and I felt my body weakening. I was on the verge of fainting, my


    heart racing to the point of nausea. My throat felt bitter.


    "Allie, stop crying, please," Jan pleaded, seeing the state I was in. He quickly carried me back to my


    room,ying me gently on the bed before turning on the lights.


    But I continued to sob, choking out my usations. "Why can''t I ever see you? Do you...do you hate


    me now? You just let me be bullied...Jan...look, look at this! It hurts so much..."


    I pointed to my head, trying to gauge his reaction.


    He bent over, looking at my head with a pained expression, gently touching the spot I was pointing at.


    "What...you must have had a nightmare, Allie! Don''t worry, I won''t leave you again. I''m right here!"


    His words shattered thest bit of hope I had. My heart sank, and I felt cold all over.


    "Jan, you''ll pay for this." I cursed him silently.


    Despair like I''ve never known before washed over me. I sobbed until I was hoarse, and then I tasted


    blood in my mouth. But my mind was crystal clear.


    Jan was panicking. He quickly pulled out a tissue to clean my mouth. The sight of the bright red


    blood on the white tissue was a stark reminder of my reality.


    In that moment, all my beliefs crumbled. I was terrified. Was I going to die? No, I had to take revenge. I


    couldn''t die. I had to stay alive, to take my children away from this monster.


    With a roll of my eyes, I pretended to faint, but my mind was still alert.

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    Even so, Jan didn''t seem to have any intention of taking me to the hospital.


    He was calling my name and checking on me when I heard Zora rushing in.


    The overwhelming grief was making my head feel light, and although I was feigning unconsciousness,


    my weak body was already pushed to its limit. I wanted nothing more than to sleep when closing my


    eyes.


    "What''s wrong with her, wailing in the middle of the night? She..." Zora''s words were abruptly cut off by


    a sharp p.


    The sound snapped me back from my daze, almost causing me to open my eyes.


    Feeling a sudden rush of satisfaction, I stealthily peeked out from under my eyelids, only to see Zora


    clutching her face, staring at Jan in terror.


    "You dare to ask me? This is all your fault!" Jan snapped in a low growl. His voice was as cold and


    chilling as ice. He stepped closer to Zora, "Who told you to do this?"


    "I¡­" Zora backed away, fear evident on her face as she looked at the menacing Jan.


    I had never seen this side of Jan before. He reminded me of a demon from hell, his eyes glowing


    with a dangerous light, blood-red in color.


    I assumed he was mad at Zora for hurting me, that he still had some conscience left. But his next


    words shattered my tiny hope.


    "You''re nothing but a liability!" Jan spat out, then nced at me. He grabbed Zora by the arm and


    stormed out of the room.


    I quickly grabbed my phone to check the surveince, only to see Jan violently throw Zora against


    the wall in the hallway. She didn''t resist.


    Jan pointed at Zora, his voice filled with venom, "Listen, if you want to stay here, be thedy of this


    house, then bloody behave. Your job is to look after her. If you can''t do that..."


    Jan paused, stepping closer to Zora, scrutinizing her face, and added ominously, "I won''t hesitate to


    rece you. Don''t think you can threaten me by those things."


    Zora stared back at Jan, their eyes locked in a standoff. After a few seconds, she lowered her gaze


    and nodded, "I... understand."


    Jan seemed to rx a little, spat in disgust,pletely shattering my previous image of him.


    In my mind, he was always gentle and refined. But the man in front of me was a far cry from the Jan


    I knew.


    "Go clean her up. If she wakes up and asks, nothing happened. Understood?" Jan told Zora, staring


    at her until she nodded in agreement. He then walked into his study.


    Zora stood still for a while before she pulled herself together and headed towards my room. I quickly


    hid my phone under my body.


    As Zora came in and stood by my bed, looking at me for a long time, I heard her moving towards the


    bathroom and the sound of running water.


    I breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed that Jan was not aware of Zora''s actions against me, but his


    reaction was not out of sympathy for me. It was because Zora had messed up his ns.


    She cleaned my face with a warm damp cloth, probably afraid that the cold water would wake me up.


    Then she carefully wiped my mouth.


    Before she could leave, the door was flung open again. I peeked to see Jan returning, heading


    straight for the shelf on the opposite wall. After a long stare, he asked Zora, "What happened here?"


    Zora responded obediently, "The cat knocked it over!"


    I realized then that he had gone back to check the surveince footage of the room, but I knew that the


    camera had been drowned and was now useless.


    Jan reached up to the top shelf, retrieved the camera, looked at it and put it back.


    His actions reassured me. It seemed he didn''t suspect anything.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    The drama seemed to have ended there. But that night, Jan didn''t leave the room again. Instead, he


    This was a normal action for a married couple, but it sent chills down my spine at that moment.


    Could it be that his conscience was pricking him?

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    I quickly dismissed the thought with a scoff. Can a devil possess a heart of a man?


    His earlier conversation with Zora had been packed with hidden meanings. He imed Zora was


    threatening him? What could Zora possibly have against him? And why did he call her a liability?


    There''s more to this saying than meets the eye. But for now, hey beside me, his intentions hidden.


    One thing was clear, however; my safest moments were when he was by my side.


    With this in mind, I let my thoughts drift away and drifted off to sleep.


    That night, maybe I was exhausted from crying, or perhaps because we were sharing the same bed,


    under each other''s watchful eyes, all we could do was sleep. So, I slept soundly, waking up naturally.


    When I opened my eyes, I felt more refreshed than ever.


    Suddenly, a voice beside me said, "You''re awake?"


    Startled, I turned to see Jan lying next to me. He was propped up on his arm, watching me intently,


    N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    his face was as calm as ever, as if we''d gone back in time.


    At that moment, I realized I had underestimated him; he was quite the actor.


    Blinking to clear my head, I wasn''t sure what Jan was nning, but for now, I had to y along. I


    wanted to see what tricks he had up his sleeve.


    "Honey, what time is it?" My voice came out hoarse, startling me.


    He reached out to touch my face, "7 o''clock!"


    I turned to face him, clearing my throat, "Aren''t you going to work?"


    "I''ve been working hardtely, I need a day off, and I want to spend some time with you," he said


    seriously, his eyes focused on my face. Then he softly told me, "I went back to Silverdale City the other


    day, to visit your parents."


    His casual tone was a punch to my gut, I asked, skeptically, "Silverdale City? You went to see my


    parents?"


    He raised an eyebrow, "Surprised?"


    I realized I had reacted too strongly, but I nodded, ying along, "Yes, quite surprising."


    "Damn, I haven''t seen my parents in a long time," I said wistfully, "Are they doing well? What made you


    decide to go see them?"


    "Don''t forget, it''s your mom''s birthday on April 12th. You were sick, and I couldn''t just pretend


    everything was normal. The expo had just ended, so I took the chance to visit them," he said, smiling


    affectionately.


    If it hadn''t been for this unexpected turn of events, I would have been touched by his gesture.


    My parents were initially against me marrying him. Being the only daughter, I was the apple of their


    eyes. They were both educators, whoter ventured into the medical sector. Our family wasn''t filthy


    rich, but we were well-respected in Silverdale City.


    They had always pampered and given me freedom, without any pressure. I was their pride, always


    excelling in studies, and even got into a prestigious university in Goldenvale.


    My parents had nned my life after college - to return to Silverdale City and work as an educator.


    They believed that a steady job and a family were the ideal life for a woman.


    But I wasn''t interested in a conventional job. Instead, I was intrigued by their business.


    During my junior year, I secretly started a medical device business in Goldenvale Town and made my


    first fortune. With my achievements, I convinced my dad to let me start mypany in Goldenvale


    Town.


    After careful evaluation, my father registered Medsafe Liyah Inc. in Goldenvale Town, making me one


    of the few people who owned apany before graduating from college.


    Fate has a peculiar way of twisting things, and that''s when I met Jan.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    Upon learning about my rtionship with Jan, my parents were skeptical of his profession as a so-


    called stylist. To them, it was just a fancy title for someone who drifted aimlessly, mingling with a


    dubious crowd and dressing in oundish outfits.


    Moreover, the Dawson family wasn''t well off and Jan was one of four siblings. Neither he nor his


    siblings had any impressive academic achievements. Jan dropped out of high school and started


    working in a hair salon, a fact that caused my parents much concern.


    Despite their attempts to discourage our rtionship, I remained stubborn and eventually, they had to


    relent. It was only after I had Monique, andter, Probert, that they truly epted Jan. When Carl


    was born, Jan quit his job to help me manage ourpany, Medsafe Liyah Inc., and sessfully


    transitioned from a stylist to a bona fide businessman.


    Jan was always humble and cautious around my parents, often iming to be too busy to


    apany me on visits to their house in Silverdale City. I didn''t mind it, thinking it was better this way.


    However, this time, he took initiative to visit my parents and even remembered my mother''s birthday,


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    which was a pleasant surprise.


    Watching him, I felt somewhat moved and said, "I had forgotten about Mom''s birthday. Thanks for


    remembering!"


    "How could I forget? With you being sick, I have to step up. After all, they''re in their seventies. We can''t


    have them worrying about us," Jan replied smoothly, sounding like the perfect son-inw.


    I cursed myself for falling for this devil in disguise. A single tear slid down my cheek, which he quickly


    wiped away, asking, "Why are you crying again?"


    "How did you exin my condition to them?" I asked, I wanted to know how much he had revealed.


    "I told them you''re abroad. Considering your anxiety, being rxed is most important and treatment


    overseas is quite advanced," he exined, adding, "I assured them you''ll be back soon, so you need to


    get better quickly. We can''t have them worrying unnecessarily."


    I gave a bitter smile. His words sent chills down my spine. If something happened to me, it would be


    deemed as my own doing overseas, with him having no connection to it.


    I wasn''t sure how much of his visit to my parents was true, and I would have to wait for Catherine''s


    confirmation.


    In the meantime, I needed to schedule a full-body check-up to understand my current health condition.


    "I''ll call themter. It''s been a while since we spoke, and I miss them," I said, ying along.


    As expected, Jan brushed it off saying, "Let''s do itter. It will worry them since it''s not the right time


    to call with the time difference."


    He then got up to hold me, suggesting, "Let''s get up."


    "You go ahead. I''m feeling a bit dizzy. I''ll join you in a bit," I replied, pushing him away slightly.


    Jan nodded and headed to the bathroom. As soon as I heard the sound of running water, I quickly


    texted Catherine and hid my phone before getting out of bed.


    Despite having a good night''s sleep, the emotional drain was considerable. As I sat on the bed, I


    contemted how to retrieve my original phone, which held many important things.


    After Jan finished freshening up, he carried me to the bathroom, chatting casually and helping me


    clean up, ying the good husband role.


    Oddly enough, Zora didn''t bring my medicine today, and Jan didn''t mention it either, which left me a


    bit perplexed.

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    After breakfast, Jan, who''d promised to spend the day at home with me, received a call. He told me


    there was some urgent business he needed to handle at the office, assuring me he''d be back soon,


    then hurried off.


    Oddly, hearing the word ''office'' from his lips left me deep in thought.


    Jan, who''d promised to return soon, didn''te back untilte at night, when I heard his car drive


    into the yard.


    To my surprise, he came straight back to my room. As soon as he walked in, I was hit by the strong


    smell of alcohol.


    He leaned over me for a moment, then headed to the bathroom for a shower. Emerging damp, he


    burrowed under the covers and was soon snoring loudly.


    I opened my eyes and nced at him. He was turned away from me, lying far away. His familiar


    silhouette seemed to be growing more distant, just like our physical distance on the bed.


    I deliberately rolled over dramatically, causing the bed to shake. Facing his back, I softly called out to


    him, but there was no response. He must have had quite a few drinks tonight.


    I wondered what he was thinking, returning to my room again. Was he trying to avert suspicion after


    But I couldn''t let this golden opportunity slip.


    I quietly got out of bed, locked the door, and after observing his steady snores for a while, I mustered


    up the courage to slowly walk over to his side of the bed and find his phone, and I put it on silent.


    The phone was locked, so I quietly picked up his hand, unlocked the phone, returned to my side of the


    bed, and began scrolling through his phone records.


    In order to save time and out of fear he might wake up at any moment, I sent every call log, contact,


    frequently interacted chat history, group chats, and messages directly to my new phone without


    bothering to assess their value.


    I checked his remote surveince app on his phone, but there weren''t many records, mostly of me


    sleeping on the bed. Perhaps he''d be numb to these images, so he didn''t check the surveince


    often.


    There were only a few pictures of our children in his album, nothing worth noting.


    And there were no revealing transactions in his PayPal ount.


    After saving what I needed, I returned the phone to its original spot, but something felt off.


    It was too clean. No signs of anything unusual.


    I looked at Jan one more time, then quietly left the room and headed to the study.


    Still no luck finding the key. Disappointed, I returned to the room and climbed back into bed.


    The next day, Jan told me he had to go to Amethyst Acres to discuss a contract and would return


    the following day.


    I was secretly thrilled - fortune was on my side. But on the surface, I feigned reluctance, "Can''t you


    "Honey, business is tough these days andpetition is fierce! I can''t avoid it, I''ll have to entertain their


    manager tonight, have a few drinks, and who knows when I''ll be done? If I rush back, it''ll be midnight


    by the time I get home and it''ll disturb your rest! Instead, I''ll visit other ces tomorrow!" Jan


    offers better deals!"


    "Haven''t thosepanies at Amethyst Acres always been working with us?" I asked. I was familiar


    with the situation at Amethyst Acres, given that I''did the groundwork there.


    "Sweetheart, you''ve been out of the market for a while. It''s a dog-eat-dog world out there, and our profit


    margins are getting thinner!" He vented to me.


    I didn''t respond, but suddenly asked him, "Honey, I can''t seem to find my phone. I need to call my


    parents. I miss them."


    "Let''s call them when I''m back! I don''t have time today, and I don''t want you to say something that


    might worry them. After all, you haven''t called them for a while!" Then he got up and said, "I''m in a


    rush, you get some rest! Just wait for me at home!"


    Knowing he was stalling, I didn''t press further and let him leave. Once he was gone, I quickly


    messaged Catherine, asking her to make arrangements for me to visit the hospital.


    Catherine immediately replied, "Ok, I''ll get right on it! Wait for my message!"


    Ten minutester, she texted, "All set, you can leave whenever you''re ready!"

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    I was anxious, waiting for Zora to go out so I could make my move. Jan wasn''t home, and I figured I


    could handle Zora on my own.


    To pass the time, I pulled out my phone and sorted through the information I''d gathered from Jan''s


    phone the night before. I sent the useful bits to my close friend, Catherine, for further investigation.


    Catherine is the daughter of my father''s good friend, we''ve been thick as thieves since we were kids,


    and we both ended up in Goldenvale Town for college. She studied journalism at a different university,


    but we''ve always stayed in touch.


    Catherine is a single, career-oriented woman, a real go-getter in her field at Goldenvale Media. She''s


    outgoing and friendly, with an impressivework of contacts. She always teased me about how I''ve


    be a docile ''house-cat'' since I married Jan.


    Whenever she saw me, she tutted and shook her head,menting, "Such a talented business partner,


    off the market just like that! Women really shouldn''t get married. Men are like sandpaper, they smooth


    out all your edges until you''re round and dull, devoid of personality. You''re the perfect example."


    I always brushed off herments, replying, "What''s wrong with being rounded? I enjoy my current


    life, right?"


    "Ha! More like you''ve been trained into a housewife by Jan, that man''s a bona fidedykiller. Look at


    you, he''s practically killing you!"


    Her words were eerily prophetic, as it turns out Jan really did want me dead. But Catherine


    remained my steadfast supporter.


    After I briefed Catherine on the points she needed to investigate, I took a short rest. I hadn''t slept well


    the night before, my mind was a whirl of thoughts, and I was feeling drained. I needed to conserve myN?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    strength.


    I barely ate lunch, and to watch Zora''s movements, I didn''t even go upstairs, choosing to lie down on


    the living room couch instead.


    Carl sat beside me, ying with his toys, while Zora patiently fed him his lunch.


    I was getting impatient, but Zora seemed to be in no hurry to leave. She was interacting harmoniously


    with Carl as if I wasn''t there at all.


    Seeing that Jan wasn''t home, she probably didn''t feel the need to go to the market. I had to give her


    a reason to leave the house.


    I casually said to her, "Zora, could you buy some shrimpter? I want some for dinner."


    "We have some at home, how do you want them prepared?" she asked, ncing at me.


    "I want fresh ones, not frozen. Also, get a durian," I added, knowing that this would force her to go out


    since Jan hated its smell and we rarely had it at home. But both Zora and I loved durian.


    She agreed readily, "Alright, I''ll go buy themter."


    I grabbed a nket and pretended to sleep on the couch, nning my next moves in my head.


    Once Carl was asleep, Zora left the house. I immediately turned off the surveince, got up to


    rummage through the medicine cab, and found exactly what I was looking for - a tranquilizing


    hypnotic. I chose Midazm, a quick-acting and potentially addictive drug, fitting punishment for Zora.


    After putting everything back in its ce, I returned to the couch to figure out how to slip it to Zora


    unnoticed.


    I was actually asleep on the couch when Zora returned, and was rudely awakened by Carl pping my


    face. His little hand pped hard on me. He giggled at my shocked expression.


    Still groggy, I yfully swatted his bottom, "You little rascal!"


    He immediately looked towards the kitchen, and I followed his gaze to catch a fleeting glimpse of Zora.


    It seemed she had spoiled him rotten.


    But this made me realize a problem - what would happen to Carl if Zora was put to sleep?


    It would be toote if I waited for Carl to fall asleep.


    And the drug onlysted 4-6 hours. If Zora woke up early and found a stranger looking after Carl, our


    cover would be blown. If I took Carl out, he might inadvertently spill the beans, which would be


    dangerous.


    I looked at Carl, torn between options.

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    When Zora had prepared dinner, Carl had just had a diaper ident. As Zora went to change him, I


    snuck in some extra salt into the shrimp scampi and dropped the drug into her ss of water.


    My heart pounded wildly; it was the first time I had done something like this.


    Then, feigning nonchnce, I sat down to eat. As she returned, I casually mentioned, "The shrimp''s a


    bit salty!"


    Zora shot me a suspicious nce, tried a shrimp, and awkwardly reasoned, "Guess I didn''t stir it well


    enough!"


    I didn''t pursue the topic, ate a couple of shrimps and then focused on feeding Carl, buying myself some


    time.


    Even though the shrimp was salty, Zora seemed to be enjoying it immensely, dipping it into her


    homemade hot sauce, and finishing the entire te quickly.


    I snorted inwardly. But this was precisely the effect I wanted. I watched her closely.


    And sure enough, after finishing her meal, she reached for her water ss. Just when I was about to


    celebrate, she tossed the water away and refilled the ss.


    Disappointment hit me like a punch. She didn''t take the ''special water''. I had toe up with a new


    n.


    As she cleaned up the dinnerware and yed with Carl, an idea hit me. As soon as she was about to


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    grab her water ss after cleaning up, I lifted Carl from his high chair, intending to head upstairs. But


    Carl refused to cooperate, calling out ''Mommy,'' his nickname for Zora.


    Zora, always doting on Carl, instantly put down her ss and held out her arms to take Carl.


    I quickly instructed her, "Take him upstairs to y in his room! I''m a bit tired and want to rx a bit."


    Without any hesitation, she took Carl and headed out. I followed them to the dining room door, then


    turned back, muttering, "I need to take a ss of water with me. The shrimp was so salty!"


    Zora paid no mind to myment and continued upstairs. I swiftly dropped the pill I had prepared


    earlier into her water ss, stirred it, and because of the ss''s texture, no change was noticeable


    even after the pill dissolved.


    I casually refilled another ss and headed upstairs. I was certain she woulde down for water


    soon, having eaten so much salty shrimp. I didn''t believe she could resist the thirst.


    Besides, with Carl upstairs, she was unlikely to linger downstairs.


    I had her take Carl upstairs for a reason. I had calcted every step carefully.


    The drug would take effect in around 15 minutes. If she was upstairs when that happened, she would


    sleep there, and wouldn''t suspect anything when she woke up.


    Instead of going to the children''s room with them, I returned to my own room and quickly texted


    Catherine. She responded immediately, said she was waiting outside the neighborhood.


    She had even brought along a nanny. I apuded her efficiency.


    I timed my return to the children''s room perfectly. Carl was sitting amongst a pile of toys, with Zora


    asleep next to him. He was ying and asionally tugging at Zora''s hair, calling ''Mommy'' in an


    attempt to get her to join him.


    I walked in, called Zora''s name, "Zora, how could you fall asleep? Carl is still awake. He can''t y


    alone!"


    Zora didn''t stir. I went over and nudged her, but she didn''t react. She was sound asleep.


    I gave her a hard kick. Her body just moved passively.


    My heart throbbed wildly. I quickly rinsed Zora''s water ss to remove any residue and returned it to its


    ce.


    I changed into one of Zora''s dresses and styled my hair like hers, in case themunity''s surveince


    cameras caught me.


    Then I picked up Carl, put him in his stroller, and headed out. At first, Carl was resistant, looking back


    at me and calling out ''Mommy'', but once in the stroller, he stopped fussing, even pped his little


    hands, realizing we were going out.


    As soon as we stepped out, Catherine''s car pulled up. We quickly got in and drove off from the


    neighborhood.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    On the car, the nanny Catherine brought with her took immediate charge of Carl, bombarding him with


    a plethora of intriguing toys. Carl''s attention was instantly hooked, his ''Mommy'' long forgotten in the


    back of his mind.


    Catherine, on the other hand, scooped me into her arms, scrutinizing me from head to toe. Seeing my


    pale face, her eyes instantly reddened, and she asked in a worried tone, "Allie, are you okay?"


    Suppressing my own emotions, I nodded emphatically, not daring to speak. If I opened my mouth, I


    would break down.


    Indeed, after the series of actions just now, I feltpletely drained, my body trembling, my heart


    pounding so hard that I had difficulty breathing.


    At this moment, I felt as though I had narrowly escaped death.


    Picking up on my distress, Catherine pulled me into her arms, gently stroking my back without saying a


    word.


    After a while, I felt my breathing be more steady. It was then that I noticed that the man driving us


    was the same repairman who had repaired our electricity a few days ago.


    Seeing me looking at him, Catherine hurriedly introduced him, "This is Ronan''s cousin, Logan


    Monahan. Allie, he''s a well-known private investigator!"


    Logan nced at me through the rear-view mirror, a mischievous smile ying on his lips, causing my


    cheeks to redden.


    I was slightly taken aback as I looked at Logan, giving him a nod of acknowledgment. Seeing him


    reminded me of the expression on his face when he had taken the condom filled with medicine; it was a


    scene of sheer embarrassment.


    I didn''t expect him to be a private investigator, no wonder he was so quick-witted.


    "Thank you, Mr. Monahan!" Despite the awkwardness, I expressed my sincere gratitude.


    "Nah, don''t worry about it. Besides, I dare not disobey Catherine''s orders. I make my living because of


    Catherine!" To my surprise, Logan turned out to be quite the joker.


    Catherine raised an eyebrow and chuckled, "At least you have a conscience!"


    "I don''t dare to mess with you; you''re the real boss! The problem is I can''t stand your relentless calls,


    you don''t give me a moment''s peace." Loganined.


    Ignoring Logan''sints, Catherine sobered up and exined her arrangements to me.


    She said that Logan had traced Jan''s whereabouts during the past few days and confirmed that he


    had indeed been to Silverdale City and stayed there for three days, all of which were at my parents''


    house.


    Although I had already heard about this from Jan, hearing it from another perspective still made me


    frown.


    Catherine quickly added, "And, my dad called me about this. He said they even had a meal together.


    My dad couldn''t stop praising Jan and was even a bit envious, saying that Jan had hired a


    housekeeper for our elderly parents during his visit!"


    "A housekeeper!" I muttered, feeling a sudden jolt in my heart.


    Then I turned to Catherine and said, "Catherine, I have a feeling that there''s more to this. Why would


    he suddenly go to Silverdale City after I''ve been sick for such a long time?"


    Catherine immediately followed my train of thought, "You mean¡­ we should dig deeper?"


    Our eyes met, and I asked her, "Do you have time to make a trip back to Silverdale City?"


    "You''re saying, I visit my family and check on your parents in passing?" Catherine understood


    immediately.


    "Exactly!" I nodded in approval. This was the understanding between Catherine and me. Then I told


    Catherine, "Jan said he was worried about my parents, so he said I went abroad to rx and


    received psychological treatment there!"


    "What the hell¡­ He turned you into this and you still believe him?" Catherine sneered contemptuously,


    almost swearing.


    "So, I''d like you to go back for a visit!" I added.


    Logan nced at me again through the rear-view mirror.


    Without any hesitation, Catherine agreed, "Deal!"


    The car sped into the emergency department of the hospital. Logan and the nanny stayed in the car to


    look after Carl, while Catherine led me straight to the doctor''s office, where someone was waiting for


    us.


    I had no idea how much clout Catherine had, but even the hospital director was personally


    apanying us. As a result, my examination proceeded smoothly without any waiting. It took less


    than two hours in total. However, the final results would have to wait for theprehensive data and


    the consultation report.


    To prevent any leaks from Zora''s side, Catherine gave a few instructions to the hospital director, and


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    we didn''t linger in the hospital but prepared to leave.


    Just as Catherine and I stepped into the elevator, a few men emerged from the opposite hallway and


    walked straight towards us. The moment my gaze shifted towards them, I felt a shiver of fear¡­

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    I spun around abruptly, my voice shaking as I hissed at Catherine, "Shut the door, now!"


    Catherine reacted instantaneously, her hand pressing the elevator button with urgency. The group of


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    men were already calling out to us, "Wait!"


    My heart pounded in my chest as I watched the elevator doors slide closed.


    Just as they were about to reach us, the elevator doors shut with a dull thud. As the elevator began to


    descend, I could hear the faint sound of someone pounding on the call button and a frustrated curse,


    "Damn, those women didn''t wait!"


    The elevator plunged downwards rapidly and I leaned weakly against the wall, finally letting out a


    breath I didn''t realize I''d been holding.


    "Who was it? Who did you see?" Catherine steadied me, her eyes wide with concern. "Your face is pale


    as a ghost!"


    "Jerome Dawson," I admitted shakily. "Jan''s brother!"


    "Jesus Christ," Catherine sounded as shocked as I felt. "Why him? Talk about bad luck!"


    Stepping out of the elevator, I grabbed Catherine''s arm urgently. "We need to get out of here. If he


    recognizes me, we''re screwed."


    My legs were weak, and I could barely stand. I was already exhausted from the check-up, and the


    shock had drained what little energy I had left. I was close to tears. If we didn''t leave now, the men


    would catch up to us.


    Catherine understood my worry and quickly scanned our surroundings. She darted towards a nurse


    and grabbed a gurney, pushing it back towards me.


    The nurse, startled by the sudden action, watched as Catherine wheeled the gurney away, only


    reacting after a few seconds and chasing after us.


    By the time the nurse caught up to us, I was already on the gurney. She didn''t insist on taking it back,


    but instead helped Catherine to secure me onto it.


    Just as I was settled on the gurney, the elevator dinged, signaling its arrival.


    "Damn, we''re out of time!" Catherine cursed, quickly pointing the nurse towards a hallway and pushing


    her towards it. "Go, now!"


    She then ran off towards another gurney, pretending to follow it down another hallway.


    The nurse didn''t hesitate, pushing me away towards the direction Catherine pointed at.


    Through the ss barrier, I saw Jerome and his men stride out of the elevator, scanning the lobby


    before running in Catherine''s direction.


    I urged the nurse, "Get me out of here, fast. Thank you!"


    She sped up, pushing the gurney towards the exit. I clung onto the edges of the gurney, afraid that


    Jerome and his men woulde after us.


    She pushed me out of the main door where Logan''s car was already waiting.


    Logan got out of the car and helped me into the backseat. Just as the car door shut, I saw Jerome and


    his men storm out of the building.


    The nurse had already wheeled the gurney away and walked past them, disappearing into the lobby.


    I quickly told Logan, "Don''t start the car!"


    Logan didn''t move, but his eyes were trained on the group of men. He then took out his phone and


    made a call.

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26


    There stood Jerome at the front door, his gaze sweeping over the few cars parked before him.


    Thankfully, the night had fallenpletely, casting shadows over the tinted windows of our vehicle,


    making it impossible for him to see inside.


    I watched as someone approached Jerome, said a few words, and then he spat on the ground, turning


    back into the hospital.


    I slumped in my seat, and before long, Catherine darted out of the hospital and into the car.


    "Drive!" I instructed Logan.


    Without hesitation, Logan started the car and sped away from the front door.


    "He didn''t see you, did he?" Catherine, still catching her breath, turned to me. "Damn, that was close!"


    "I''m not sure. That''s why we need to get back home right now."


    "What''s there to fear? Worstes to worst, it''s do or die. Considering your health condition right


    now..." Catherine sighed, shaking her head, but couldn''t hold back her concern. "You really should


    consider leaving that house."


    Logan nced at me through the rear-view mirror.


    "I can''t let them off the hook just like that. This incident confirms my suspicion - it''s not just about my


    health. If Jerome was indeed trying to follow us, that''s a clear sign." I voiced out my concerns, my heart


    still pounding.


    Catherine patted my hand, "Don''t think too much. Remember, we''re here for you."


    Hearing this, I felt a lump in my throat. I leaned back into the seat and closed my eyes. Only then did I


    remember Carl, I quickly nced back, only to find him asleep in nanny''s arms.


    The car sped along the road like a cheetah, but my heart felt heavy. A sense of dread slowly crept over


    me, leaving me anxious.


    We parked in the shadows near my house. Logan suggested we wait in the car for a few moments. It


    wasn''tte, yet my house was pitch ck.


    "I''ll go in with you," Catherine offered, her eyes filled with concern. "You won''t be able to carry Carl by


    yourself."


    "I know this ce better," Logan unbuckled his seatbelt, "I''ll carry the kid."


    He gestured for me to go in first. I unlocked the door and waited for him. He then quickly followed,


    carrying Carl in his arms.


    The house was eerily quiet. I ced the stroller back in its ce and switched on the smallmp to


    guide us upstairs. I gently pushed open the door to the kids'' room. A tiny nightlight was the only source


    of light, and Zora was still deep asleep.


    I made way for Logan, carrying Carl. He scanned the room before cing Carl among the pile of toys. I


    was about to pull the thin nket over him, but Logan stopped me. He pointed to Zora, and it clicked -


    leaving Carl as is would make it look like he fell asleep while ying.


    He then gestured towards the exit and quickly left the room.


    I nced at the sleeping Carl onest time before I hurriedly left the room, changed out of Zora''s


    clothes and darted into my own room. Exhausted, I copsed onto the bed, turned on the surveince


    system, and put my switched-off phone under my pillow.


    My heart was pounding in my chest. I went over the details once more to make sure there were no


    loose ends before letting out a sigh of relief. Closing my eyes, I sumbed to the overwhelming


    exhaustion.


    I wasn''t sure how long I slept for, but the sound of a car pulling up startled me awake. A beam of


    headlights swept across the room before disappearing. Straining my ears, I heard the front door click


    shut.


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    Then, the soft sound of footsteps climbing upstairs.


    Jan was back!


    He had said he wouldn''t be home, yet here he was. I was certain Jerome had called him.


    His footsteps paused outside my room before heading into his own. He didn''t stay long before I heard


    him returning.


    He stepped into my room, spending a few moments staring at my bed, as was his routine. Instead of


    climbing into bed, he took out his phone and dialed a number...

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27


    The ringing of the phone was unusually clear in the quiet room, and the person on the other end picked


    up almost immediately.


    Jan, phone in hand, left his bedside and headed toward the bathroom, but I could still faintly hear


    the person on the other end ask, "You''ve arrived?"


    Squinting, I watched as Jan disappeared into the bathroom.


    I tried to catch their conversation, but the voices were too soft. However, it was apparent that someone


    knew Jan was back, and I guessed it must be Jerome.


    Jan seemed to have forgotten something and came out again, grabbing a fresh towel from the closet


    before heading back in. All this while, he just held his phone and murmured responses from time to


    time.


    With a bravery I didn''t know I had, I slipped out of bed and tiptoed toward the bathroom, pressing my


    ear against the wall. I just managed to hear Jan murmur, "Get someone to check the CCTV and


    send it to me! Have you sorted out what I asked you to? ... Yes, get a move on, we can''t dy any


    longer. ... If he insists on being stubborn, teach him a lesson!"


    "... But ... Silverdale City ..."


    I thought I heard the person on the other end mention Silverdale City, but I couldn''t be sure. Eager to


    hear more, I tried to move closer, but didn''t watch my footing. I knocked something off the side table


    with a tter.


    The sound from the bathroom stopped immediately. The next second, the bathroom door was flung


    open. Suddenly, an idea hit me. I picked up a vase from the side table and shouted, "Who''s there? ...


    Come out!"


    My voice quivered with fear, and it was far from intimidating.


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    Jan emerged from the bathroom. I raised the vase to strike, but he caught my hand, saying loudly,


    "It''s me!"


    I stared at him dumbfounded, and my knees gave out.


    He took the vase from my grasp, supporting me as he snapped, "What were you thinking?"


    My face drained of color, I leaned into him, pounding his chest weakly. "You ... you scared me half to


    death ... I thought someone broke in ... You said you weren''ting back ... Then I heard noises ... I


    was terrified!"


    Innocence and fear marked my face. The tremors that racked my body were genuine, a result of the


    fright I''d just had.


    Jan''s expression hardened, and his tone was none too pleasant. "Who could have gotten in? You''re


    always scaring yourself!"


    My face fell, and I red at him. "Jan, are you yelling at me?"


    He blinked, quickly shifting gears. He put down the vase, and with augh, wrapped his arms around


    me, steering me back into the bathroom. "Honey, I was just upset to see you frightened. Who could


    possibly break into our home in the middle of the night? I rushed back because I was worried about


    you. You have no idea how much it hurt me to see you crying your heart out the other day."


    Hearing his words, I inwardly cursed him. What a snake, with his pretty words and false concern.


    I struggled, but my weak attempts could easily be misconstrued as just ying hard to get. I was no


    match for him.


    "What are you doing? ... Stop it! I can''t fight back!" I copsed in his arms,pletely drained.


    Jan touched my chest. My stomach turned, and I retched. He immediately halted his actions and


    looked up. "What''s wrong? Are you really feeling unwell?"


    I took deep breaths, and gestured towards my heart. "What do you think? Intense activity makes me


    nauseous, and my heart races. Do you actually think I''m faking it? You should take me to the hospital


    when you can. The medicine doesn''t seem to be working!"


    The corners of his mouth twitched imperceptibly. Then his face softened as he cooed, "Then we''ll stop


    taking it. I was nning to take you to the hospital for a thorough check-up anyway."


    I leaned against him, my body trembling like a leaf in the wind.


    I cast him a sideways nce. "ying the good guy now, are you? Coming back in the dead of night,


    hiding in the bathroom to make a call, and nearly scaring me to death! If you want me dead, this


    method will definitely work."


    He chuckled, gluing himself to me again, and pulling me close. His hands roamed over my body as he


    said, "Honey, I''ve missed you so much..."

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28


    I pushed him away, my anger barely controlled. "What, are you trying to wear me out to kill me? Is this


    your way of getting rid of me?"


    Jan burst intoughter, and as I turned to leave, he didn''t follow but went to take a shower.


    Back in bed, my mind was spinning, reying his words from the phone conversation. I quickly


    grabbed my cell, texting Catherine to check on the hospital''s surveince footage.


    The next morning, when Zora saw Jan and meing downstairs together, she looked shocked.


    "Mr. Jan...you came backst night?"


    Jan replied coldly, "Yes."


    I noticed Zora''s slight difort, and she quickly said, "Mydy, I''ll bring you your medicine right


    away!"


    "Hold off on the meds," Jan ordered before I could even respond.


    Zora froze, ncing at me.


    I sat down at the dining table, a thrill of joy inside me. Finally, I could stop taking the medicine. But then,


    confusion set in. Why had Jan suddenly decided to stop my meds?


    After breakfast, I seized the opportunity to ask Jan about my cell phone again. To my surprise, he


    readily agreed, went upstairs to get it, and handed it to me.


    I was overjoyed and immediately wanted to make a call, but he held my hand. "Just tell them you''re


    back. They''ve been worried sick."


    His words took me by surprise.


    "But..." Jan paused, looking at me. I pressed him, "What is it?"


    "If they want toe to Goldenvale Town and visit you, try to postpone it."


    "Why?" I asked, feigning annoyance, curious about his intentions.


    "You''re still sick. Seeing you like this will only worry them," Jan answered thoughtfully. "Tell them


    you''ll return to Silverdale City to see them after you''ve had a rest. They don''t need to stress themselves


    out, they''re in their 70s after all!"


    "Okay!" I agreed cheerfully, though a sense of unease lingered.


    I called my parents, and as Jan suggested, I told them I was back home. They were delighted to


    hear my voice, asking me many questions about my life overseas.


    Jan sat beside me, giving me approving thumbs up as I navigated the conversation smoothly.


    The callsted a long time, and by the end, my brain felt like it was running out of oxygen. I didn''t hide


    my exhaustion, even joking about it with Jan, "If I had to talk any longer, I''d pass out!"


    "Then you should go upstairs and rest," he suggested softly, wrapping his arm around my shoulders.


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Before I could move, Zora rushed downstairs, heading straight for the medicine cab.


    Jan gave her a stern look, asking icily, "What''s going on?"


    "Well... it seems Carl has a fever," she stammered.


    "What?" I stood up immediately, regret flooding over me. I knew exactly why this was happening, and I


    cursed myself for my carelessness. "How did he get a fever?"


    I studied Zora as she guiltily exined, "He might have caught a chillst night. He kicked off his


    nket when I checked on him in the middle of the night."


    I cursed her in my mind, impressed and annoyed by her quick thinking. Clearly, she was unbothered by


    the situationst night,pletely unaware of what had transpired.


    Without another word, I headed upstairs, Jan following close behind.


    When I reached Carl''s room and touched his forehead, it was burning hot.


    "How could this happen?" I murmured, tears welling in my eyes. I was filled with regret for not covering


    him up morest night, which could have prevented his illness.


    I was so remorseful, I felt like banging my head against the wall.


    Jan tried tofort me. "Honey, kids get sick. It happens."


    Zora looked worried too, she ced a thermometer into Carl''s mouth and kept her eyes fixed on his


    small face.


    When she finally checked the thermometer, we found Carl was running a high fever.

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29


    Tears sprung to my eyes as I read the number on the thermometer. Self-reproach filled me as I med


    myself for not taking care of him properly. "This is all my fault," I thought, "I''ve let him down. I''ve failed


    as a mother."


    "We need to get him to the hospital," I told Jan in a panic. "We need to go now!"


    As I bent over to pick up the child, I collided with Zora, my vision darkened and my body swayed.


    Jan caught me with one arm, his voice cold. "Let Zora and me handle this. You''re in no condition to


    be of help. You''ll only make things worse."


    Zora smirked, wrapping Carl in a light nket before holding him in her arms.


    She seemed to be victorious. I stared at her, feeling a wave of resentment.


    Jan tried to reassure me, "Honey, go rest, everything will be fine. We''ll be back soon."


    "But I..." I began, stepping forward with worry. But before I could continue, they were already walking


    away.


    I had no choice but to follow, offering advice until they reached the staircase. Watching them rush out, I


    was filled with a mix of emotions.


    This illness was my fault, and yet I was too weak to take care of him myself.


    As the front door closed, I retreated back into the room, watching Jan''s car drive away through the


    window. I forced augh, realizing that in their eyes, I belonged in this room.


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    Before I could recover from my guilt, my phone buzzed. I absentmindedly opened a file sent by


    Catherine, and my heart almost stopped.


    Multiple organ failures, high levels of heavy metals, moderate poisoning. If it worsened, it could lead to


    organ failure, even death.


    As someone who worked in medical equipment, these terms were like a bolt from the blue. No wonder I


    felt so weak.


    I was on the brink of death.


    I swallowed the lump in my throat, steadying my emotions. I clenched my fists, a burning anger rising


    within me.


    Just then, another message from Catherine came in. I quickly dialed her number. She picked up, her


    face serious. "Allie, you''ve seen the results? I''m not surprised by them."


    "I am." I replied, my teeth gritted against the pain.


    We were silent for a while before Catherine spoke softly, she warmly said, "Don''t worry! Dr. Edmond


    has prepared a detailed treatment n. We''ve already ordered the antidote from abroad. It should be


    here in a few days. If it doesn''t work, we''ll do dialysis. I believe you''ll recover soon. We won''t give up on


    you, Allie! Don''t worry."


    Her words brought tears to my eyes. "I don''t want to live just for the sake of living. I want revenge!


    That''s why I need to stay alive!"


    "I asked Dr. Edmond to analyze the elements further. It''s not medicine, it''s a chemicalpound. It''s


    only avable on the ck market."


    "The ck market?" I asked in shock.


    Catherine nodded. "Yes. It''s a slow poison that''s tasteless and odorless. It''s very hard to detect when


    added to food. It damages your body gradually until it causes organ failure. Even the cause of death


    can be hard to determine.


    The medicine you gave us didn''t have any issues. The drug must have been addedter. This means


    Zora can''t get away with it. She made the medicine, she delivered it. She can''t escape the me."


    "But she doesn''t have the means to get this stuff from the ck market!" I pointed out, shivering


    involuntarily.

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30


    The dark underbelly of the ck market was involved, and I knew this was something far beyond the


    capabilities of Zora, a mere housemaid.


    "Allie, my main concern is whether she still has possession of that...that thing," Catherine cautioned


    me. "If she does, it''s a ticking time bomb. Especially when Jan isn''t around, you should be wary of


    anything she gives you to eat."


    "But what about my children?" I inhaled sharply, closing my eyes as tears slipped down my cheeks.


    "Catherine," I choked out, "How did my lifee to this? What do they want?"


    "Keep your cool...don''t do anything rash," Catherine advised me in a hushed voice. "Stay safe, that''s


    the way to win."


    Right, staying alive was the key.


    I sniffled, "They''re not around right now, they''ve gone to the hospital. Carl didn''t cover upst night and


    caught a cold. Jan came back in the middle of the night, I suspect Jerome called him. I don''t know


    what was said, but his sudden return is definitely suspicious. Oh, and Catherine, we need to do


    something about the hospital''s surveince."


    "Don''t worry about that!" Catherine reassured me, "As soon as we left the hospital, Logan arranged for


    someone to take care of the surveince. He''s very meticulous, he won''t leave loose ends. You can


    rx."


    "That''s good," I sighed with relief. "Jan made a call when he came back, I think I heard Silverdale


    City. Catherine, if you can, you need to make a trip to Silverdale City."


    "What are you talking about? I told you, for you, I''d even quit my job to be at your disposal," she


    dered.


    Her words warmed my heart, "Catherine, I can''t thank you more!"


    Catherine let out a string of expletives, "Jan, that vicious beast, to think he''d stoop so low for a


    housemaid..."


    "No...!" I cut her off, voicing my suspicion, "Something''s not right. I have a feeling Zora''s just a puppet,


    and Jan has other ns."


    "Why do you think so?" Catherine probed.


    "His attitude!" I answered without hesitation, "Jan''s attitude towards Zora isn''t right."


    "Do you think there''s nothing between them?" Catherine asked, full of skepticism.


    I shook my head, deep in thought, "There''s definitely something. But it''s...odd. I can''t quite put my


    finger on it, but I''m sure it''s not the main factor. If Zora was nted by him to keep an eye on me, or


    that she''s Jan''s aplice, I''d believe that."


    "He''s really desperate, going after a rude housemaid. Men!" Catherine spat with disdain. "Don''t worry,


    Logan''s already digging into their backgrounds. We''ll know soon who''s involved with the ck market.


    The immediate priority is to find that kind of drug, I''m convinced Zora still has it. That''s our ticket to


    bring them down."


    "Odorless, tasteless!" I murmured to myself, horrified at the thought of such a thing existing in our


    home. What about my children? What if she targeted them? It was an unthinkable threat.


    "No, I need to take this opportunity while they''re out to look for it. Can you get into Jan''sputer


    right now?" I asked Catherine.


    "Just wait a moment, I''ll send it to you!"


    Catherine hung up, and I picked up my old phone, quickly checking the security camera feeds. Just as I


    suspected, Jan had turned off all the surveince to avoid raising my suspicions.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    I scoffed, certain that they would turn off the surveince as soon as they returned my phone.


    I headed straight to the kitchen,bing through every nook and cranny, not missing a single corner.


    Yet, I found nothing out of the ordinary.


    Where could she have hidden it?

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31


    "She can''t possibly carry this thing around with her all the time! The most logical ce for it should be


    the kitchen... it''s easy for her to use." I thought.


    I even dissected every single unbrewed herb packet,paring the ingredients as I went. Indeed, they


    were all the same.


    Defeated but not willing to give up, I ventured into Zora''s room. I rarely enter her space, and I was


    surprised by the amount of stuff she had. Her closet was packed with clothes, but I didn''t find any of


    Jan''s things.


    She''s been in this house for too long, she''s practically a member of the family now, and she''s even


    audacious enough to want to y thedy of the house!


    On her vanity, I saw a collection of luxury makeup, including the same perfume that I use.


    I had a hunch these gifts came from Jan.


    I didn''t have time to investigate further. Instead, I meticulously searched her room, but found nothing


    suspicious. I was so tired I could barely stand, my heart pounding like it was about to explode.


    I slumped onto the floor, pondering. Could the drug be gone? Otherwise, why were the drug suddenly


    missing from the medicine I tested?


    They didn''t seem to suspect that I was aware of their schemes. I had been careful, hadn''t I?


    For safety, I trembled as I dialed Jan. He finally answered after an eternity. When I asked about Carl,


    he said Carl had acute pneumonia and was undergoing treatment.


    I asked when he would be done and if he needed to stay at the hospital.


    Jan said the doctor needed to observe Carl, telling me not to worry.


    After the call, I knew they wouldn''t be back anytime soon. I didn''t know whether to feel relieved or


    worried.


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    After sitting for a while, I gritted my teeth and stood. I couldn''t let my son''s illness be in vain. I had to


    find more clues.


    My gaze swept over every inch of the room. I checked any ce that could store liquid, but found


    nothing.


    Breathing heavily, I leaned against the side of the wardrobe. To my surprise, it moved slightly, which


    startled me.


    Curiosity piqued, I reached out and pushed it. To my shock, the wardrobe slid easily to reveal a hidden


    door.


    I was dumbfounded. There was a secret door! What exactly was happening in this house?


    My head was spinning. The room next to the nanny''s should be... the study.


    The hidden door was a sliding one, big enough for a person to pass through. I pulled it open and saw


    another wall. Upon closer inspection, it seemed to be a bookshelf.


    Gathering my courage, I pushed it. The bookshelf rotated like a revolving door, revealing another


    space. I stepped inside...


    As I suspected, it was the study. And this door was right behind Jan''s chair. When closed, it blended


    seamlessly into the room.


    I stood in front of the bookshelf, gazing at the study, finally understanding the mystery that had been


    bothering me.


    No wonder I saw Jan enter Zora''s room that night, only to suddenly appear in the study. And why the


    study was locked. Everything made sense now.


    Jan locked all the drawers, probably to keep Zora out.


    But why would he need such a door? And how did he know I would go into the study that night?

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32


    All these queries had me feeling like I was stuck in a maze, my head pounding with confusion.


    But my rational side nagged at me, and I knew there was no time to dwell on uncertainties.


    With an impatient air, I plopped down at the desk, turning on Jan''sputer. Typing in the password


    Catherine had sent me, the screen flickered and I was into his main ount.


    A wave of exhration washed over me, my hands trembling as I opened his documents. Perhaps due


    to my decade-long attachment to Jan, the first thing I wanted to see was the house''s security


    footage.


    What I sawpletely shattered my perception of reality.


    Not only did I witness myself,ying pristinely still in bed as if dead, but I also saw Zora, standing at the


    foot of my bed with our three children, pointing at myatose form and whispering something


    unknown to them. Initially, the kids listened attentively, but soon their faces twisted in horror and they


    scattered in different directions.


    A vile grin stretched across Zora''s face at their reaction.


    No wonder I hadn''t seen my Monique and Probert for so long. They must have been avoiding this


    house, avoiding me. Even when they did visit, they clung to Zora, circling around her like she was their


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    mother.


    Such a venomous witch she was. She wanted to erase mepletely.


    Whenever Jan returned home, he never once stopped by to see me. Instead, he would head straight


    to Zora''s room, emerging only when the sun had risen. Even more disturbing were the intimate


    moments between them in the living room. Jan, stripped bare, sprawled on the sofa, while Zora knelt


    between his legs...


    A wave of nausea surged through me. I grabbed the wastebasket, emptying my stomach into it.


    In the mess, I spotted a used condom, which only intensified my revulsion. I retched until I copsed on


    the floor in a fit of exhaustion.


    With tears streaming down my face, I forced augh, echoing through the empty room.


    My parents were right. This was the real Jan! The sordid, indulgent, greedy expressions on his face,


    his shameless postures.


    I retched again, this time only bile came out.


    My rational mind reminded me that I had other important things to do. Suppressing my disgust, I shakily


    closed the security footage, moving on to other folders. Some contained simplepany data, others


    were locked behind encryption.


    I clicked on a photo album, revealing a plethora of explicit photos featuring Jan and various women.


    There were even old photos from old time when he was a stylist, a youthful man with an innocent look.


    The videos had shattered my worldview, these photos obliterated itpletely.


    Was this really the Jan I knew? I had lost everything, betting on the wrong person.


    What an actor he was, ying the part for ten long years.


    He was not a gentleman, but a monster hiding behind a mask of respectability, the embodiment of


    debauchery.


    In a fit of self-loathing, I pped myself hard, the impact causing stars to dance before my eyes.


    I had been so reckless, so naive, and I had paid the price. I''d almost lost my life.


    Anger surged within me, a desire to destroy the man who had done this. But no, I had to keep these


    files. As repulsive as they were, I knew they could be useful one day.


    I found a USB and transferred all the photos, videos, and essible documents onto it.


    Before the transfer wasplete, I heard the distant sound of a car engine. Panic surged through me,


    and I sprinted out of the study and into my room, peering out the window.


    Sure enough, Jan''s car was pulling up...

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    They were back.


    I spun around, darting back to the study, anxiously watching the progress bar of the file transfer, while


    the sound of the front door echoed from downstairs. It was all so nerve-wracking.


    Finally, the files were transferred. I yanked the USB out, closed theptop, and bolted from the room. I


    could already hear their footsteps climbing the stairs. My nerves were frayed; I was shaking like a leaf.


    Taking a deep breath, I forced my jelly-like legs to carry me towards the staircase.


    No sooner had I stepped out of the study than Jan came up the stairs, he was carrying Carl in his


    arms. Right behind them was Zora, clutching a nket.


    I felt a coldugh bubble up inside me. What a picture-perfect family scene. But that was my son.


    "How are you doing, Carl? Mommy''s here!" I reached out to take him from Jan, but Carl twisted


    away from me. His chubby little arms tightened around Jan''s neck. "Daddy!"


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    "Mmm," Jan murmured soothingly. Without another word, he carried Carl past me and into the


    house.


    Zora, trailing behind Jan, nced at me with a smirk that screamed both contempt and provocation.


    I swallowed my anger as we entered Carl''s room. "What did the doctor say?" I asked, "Doesn''t he need


    to be in the hospital?"


    I reached out to touch Carl''s forehead. It was cool. The fever had finally broken.


    "He''s fine. The doctor thinks it''s best if he stays home," Jan said, "The hospital is overcrowded and


    the virus is severe. It''s best for him not to be exposed to it." He turned to Zora, "Could you get him


    some water?"


    Zora immediately turned to fetch some water. Carly on the bed, clinging to Jan''s hand.


    When Zora came back with the water, I reached out to take it from her. "I can do it."


    She dodged my hand, "He''s not used to you. I''ll do it."


    Her words ignited my anger. What did she mean, he''s not used to me? If not for their scheming, would I


    be in this situation?


    "What do you mean he''s not used to me?" I demanded.


    Taken aback by my question, Zora nced at Jan.


    Jan stood up, pulling me away from the bed. "Let''s go! Zora can put him to bed. The doctor says he


    needs rest."


    Rest! Suddenly, those words kept shing in my mind, sending shivers down my spine.


    I pulled away from him, "I can''t rest when my son is sick. I need to be with him!"


    Jan stared at me, shocked by my sudden outburst.


    "Why can''t I take care of my own son? He''s sick, isn''t it natural for me to worry about him?" I stared


    back at him, feeling a surge of anger rise within me.


    His eyes darkened, and the room fell into an oppressive silence.


    Carl, probably startled by the tense atmosphere, suddenly burst into tears, calling for his father.


    I rushed over, pushing Zora aside, and sat down next to Carl tofort him.


    Jan took the ss of water from Zora, "Go cook dinner. Let Allie put him to sleep."


    Zora didn''t move. She looked unwilling to leave. I looked up at her, "Didn''t you hear him?"


    She shot Jan a nce, but he was too busy with Carl to notice her. Reluctantly, she huffed out an


    ''okay'' and left the room.


    At first, Carl resisted me, and he was reaching out for Zora. But I picked him up and rocked him gently.


    Maybe it was Jan''s presence, or maybe he was just too weak from being sick. Either way, he


    stopped crying after a while.


    I breathed a sigh of relief, "I guess kids really can''t be spoiled. I''m his mother, I should be the one


    taking care of him."


    Jan nced at me, his voice filled with sarcasm, "You are actually jealous of Zora? You were unwell,


    so I was worried that you couldn''t take care of Carl. That''s all"


    I looked up at him, retorting, "Just because I''m unwell doesn''t mean a nanny can rece me, does it?"

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34


    Jan''s expression visibly stiffened for a moment, but it quickly vanished, reced by a forced smile.


    "No one can take your ce! Oh,e on, don''t be mad. Carl is sick, don''t scare him. You''ll be the one


    heartbroken in the end!"


    His words were true. I held back and shifted my gaze to Carl''s tear-streaked face, gently patting his


    back.


    I heard a faint noise from the doorway. I was sure Zora was eavesdropping, so I deliberately said,


    "Seems like I''ve been ill for too long! My poor health always seems to be the topic of conversation!"


    Jan didn''t respond, feeding Carl a few sips of water to cover up his guilt.


    Only then did I hear the quiet footsteps of someone leaving.


    Soon, Carl fell asleep in my arms. I gentlyid him on the bed, covered him with a nket, and


    watched him for a while, feeling a pang of sorrow.


    Jan wrapped an arm around my shoulders, asking with a smirk, "Tired, aren''t you? You should get


    some rest. If you want to take care of Carl, you have to be in good shape, right?"


    Without even looking at him, I got up and went to my room. I was truly exhausted and couldn''t stand to


    entertain him any longer. He disgusted me.


    It seemed I couldn''t let them lead me by the nose anymore.


    They really thought of me as someone weak.


    Jan followed me into my room, and I coldly told him, "I''m tired. I want to sleep. No noise!"


    After I said that, I turned my back to him andy down.


    "Alright, sleep for a while. I''ll wake you when dinner is ready!" After that, I heard him leave and close


    the door behind him.


    Without finding that drug, I was in a bit more danger. It seemed Zora was getting impatient.


    Sure enough, that night, while I pretended to be sound asleep, I faintly heard voices.


    I listened carefully. It was Jan and Zora arguing, their voices more heated than usual.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I quietly got off the bed, pressed my ear against the door, but couldn''t hear clearly. Then, I plucked up


    the courage to open the door. The voices wereing from downstairs.


    Zora''s voice was clearly displeased, "How can you me me like that? And why did you stop her


    medication? Don''t tell me you can''t bear to part with her?"


    "Zora, you should know who you''re speaking to!" Jan was clearly furious. "It''s not your ce to


    dictate my actions!"


    "You''re feeling sorry for her now? Why did you even start this, why..."


    Before Zora could finish, there was a scream, followed by Jan''s angry voice, "Who the hell gave you


    the nerve to speak to me like that? Huh? Are you looking for trouble? Do you truly believe I wouldn''t


    harm you?"


    I tiptoed forward a few steps, wanting to see what was going on, but all I heard was Zora''s strangled


    cries. It sounded like someone was choking her.


    "Zora, do you really think I don''t know what you''ve done to her? Huh? You think I don''t know about the


    needle? You wanna know why I stopped the medication? She has already noticed the injury on her


    head, you dare to ruin my ns and then ask me why?" Jan''s voice was chilling.


    "...Ah... let..." I peeked downstairs and quickly withdrew. I saw Zora being choked by Jan on the


    couch, her legs thrashing about, her face turning red.


    "Do you think you can ckmail me with the child? I can make you disappearpletely, wanna try


    me?" Jan growled ominously. "Listen well, Zora. Only I can decide Aaliyah''s fate. If you dare to show


    any sign of rebellion in front of her, I will make sure you die in front of her!"


    I shivered. It was indeed Jan who had hurt me, and he intended to kill me. Zora was merely his


    aplice.


    Soon after, I heard a thud, followed by Zora''s violent coughing.


    Jan continued in a low growl, "Keep that thing safe. Stop everything. Without my orders, you will


    behave and do your... nanny job."


    He emphasized the word ''nanny'' with evident contempt.


    Zora, coughing heavily, managed to say, "Jan... in your eyes... I''ve always been just a nanny,


    haven''t I?"


    Suddenly, Jan''sughter echoed from downstairs. Then, he asked Zora, "What do you think?...


    Hahaha, do you think you can surpass Aaliyah in any way? Oh... right, ..."


    His voice paused, then continued in a wicked tone, "¡­your blow job, indeed it''s better than hers. I quite


    like it!"

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35


    A wave of nausea hit me, and I knew instantly what Jan was meaning.


    This was a self-inflicted disgrace for Zora.


    "You should thank her for giving you the opportunity to please me with your mouth, otherwise, you think


    you''d ever have the chance to get close to me?" Jan''s words were disgustingly shameless.


    "But the child..."


    Jan interrupted her instantly, "Don''t bargain with me, keep your head down!"


    Child?


    What was she nning to do? Use the child as a bargaining chip against Jan? What did she want to


    do with the child? I was getting anxious, my fists instinctively clenched, and sweat was starting to form


    on my palms.


    Could the ''thing'' Jan mentioned earlier be the drug? If it was, wasn''t he afraid that Zora would y


    dirty tricks and drug him at any moment?


    It seemed that the drug was still in Zora''s possession.


    I stood there, dumbfounded, momentarily forgetting that I was eavesdropping. If she still had the drug,


    where would she hide it?


    After a long silence, I suddenly heard Jan say, "Get up, since your mouth has been idle for a few


    days, it''s about time you put in some work,e here..."


    After that, I heard a rustling sound, followed by Jan''s disgusting moans. I felt a wave of disgust wash


    over me, and I muttered a curse under my breath before retreating to my room.


    I never thought that this home, which I had always seen as sacred, could be so filthy.


    It seemed that I couldn''t let them ignore me any longer.


    The next day.


    Carl was looking much better, he had some scrambled eggs, and his little body was twitching non-stop,


    he was no longer listless.


    Zora had a new ne around her neck, obviously a recent addition, it seemed her effortsst night


    weren''t in vain.


    I cast her a disdainful nce, quietly eating my food. For the first time, the food in my mouth didn''t


    taste good. I felt sick to my stomach. However, I had to maintain my strength and get stronger as soon


    as possible.


    Jan walked down the stairs, sat next to me, looking fresh and revitalized. He even stroked my hair,


    "You''re looking well today."


    "I''m not taking the medicine, of course I''m better!" I retorted, scrutinizing his reaction.


    Although I didn''t know why he stopped giving me the medicine, I couldn''t overact, so I had to gradually


    appear to be in better condition. This would make it more convincing.


    And besides, I wanted to put some pressure on them. They were flirting right under my nose, it was as


    if they were mocking me. I couldn''t let them get toofortable.


    Jan, still as carefree as ever, said lovingly, "As long as you''re feeling better, honey, that''s all that


    matters. I don''t want to force the medicine on you, it must have been hard for you, taking it for so long."


    "One of these days, I want to go to the hospital for a check-up, I''ve been feeling so weak. I need to get


    some tests done, see if I''ve lost any vital nutrients from taking that medicine for so long," I mumbled to


    myself, "I should get my head checked too, it''s been hurting, there must be something wrong."


    I noticed Zora, who was serving the food, paused momentarily.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll apany you when I have the time! We''ll find a good doctor to take a look." Jan


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    remained calm and collected, handing me a slice of ham, "Once I''ve signed the contract with the


    "Okay." I achieved my goal, so I decided to stop there and focused on eating my food.


    Every now and then, I''d nce at Zora, nning my next move. I needed to teach her a lesson. Now


    that I had identified my target, I couldn''t just sit back and do nothing. That would be a sign of


    weakness.


    Jan hurriedly finished his breakfast and left for work. I spent some time with Carl, who was quite


    well-behaved and adorable.


    Zora was unusually chatty today, trying to strike up a conversation with me, and even apologizing for


    her negligence that had caused Carl to fall sick.


    I deliberately asked, "Are you overwhelmed with house chores? Is that why you''recking energy? If


    you''re tired, I can hire an extra hand to help out!"


    Sure enough, this statement hit the mark. She was quick to dismiss the idea, "No, no, no, ma''am! I can


    handle it, there''s no need to hire anyone else. It would be a waste to pay another person''s sry, I can


    manage! I''ll be more careful next time."


    Of course, she wouldn''t want me to hire someone else, as it would pose a threat to her, or rather to


    both of them.


    But then again, I had no intention of letting her off the hook anytime soon.

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36


    Around noon, Catherine gave me a call, told me that Dr. Edmond had received the antidote sent from


    overseas. She asked me to text her when it was safe, and she would bring it to me.


    Without any hesitation, I told Catherine, "Let''s meet up somewhere! I''d love to see you and chat."


    " Can you?" She seemed surprised by my proposal, questioning, "Are you well enough?"


    "I need some fresh air, I''m going stir-crazy here." I said in a half-joking manner. "Jan has been


    spreading chaos, why can''t I step out for a bit?"


    Catherineughed heartily in agreement. "He''s gotten toofortable!"


    I informed Catherine, "Jan has explicitly ordered me to stop taking my medicine!"


    "What''s going on? What''s he up to now?" Catherine asked, "Is he trying to create a diversion? You


    need to be careful."


    "You''re always spot on. He''s definitely up to something. He must have sensed my suspicions, so he


    had Zora stop my medication! But something feels off, it''s not just that!"


    Truth be told, this feeling was strong, but I couldn''t pinpoint what it was. If he''s already decided to turn


    against me, why stop now when he''s so close?


    "Okay, let''s meet and talk. Let me know where you want to meet, I''lle pick you up! But isn''t it a bit


    too soon?" Catherine was somewhat worried about my safety.


    "No, it''s not!" I said cryptically. "I will make her fall asleep, and make it a habit. Somewhere near our


    "You mean, it''s her turn to sleep now?" Catherine teased, she of course knew how I dealt with Zora.


    I smiled knowingly.


    After lunch, Carl went to nap early, probably due to not feeling well. So, I added a little something to


    Zora''s meal, making her join Carl for the nap.


    Catherine picked me up and we headed to a nearby caf¨¦.


    She handed me a small bag of medicine, "Keep this safe. I have some more at home, didn''t bring all of


    it in case you can''t store it properly. You must take them on time! Dr. Edmond said to check your health


    data after finishing them, to see if there''s any improvement and then n the next treatment."


    I nodded, and handed her a USB to keep safe, just in case.


    "Are you sure Jan has other motives?" Catherine looked at me seriously, her eyes filled with


    questions.


    "I''m sure! Otherwise, he would have acted already, he wouldn''t have stopped midway!" I responded in


    disbelief. "He has so many women, and I''ve never noticed in all these years. He''s had murderous


    intentions toward me yet suddenly stopped, don''t you find it suspicious?"


    My words left Catherine stunned, after a while she awkwardlyughed and asked, "You know all about


    it?"


    "Has Logan found out about his women?" I could sense something from Catherine''s words.


    "Yes!" Catherine nodded. "Unexpectedly, Jan really is something. He hasplicated social


    rtions and maintains illicit rtionships with many women, his background is a mystery!


    Including your nanny, they''re all his sexual partners. He uses this to conquer many women to serve


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    him, and this service isn''t merely sexual. They be his..."


    Catherine paused, seemingly unable to find an urate word to define it. "How can I put this, like you


    said, puppets, devotedly doing his bidding."


    Hearing Catherine''s words, I felt a chill down my spine.


    I really was naive, wasn''t I? How did I end up with such a person!


    "Allie, don''t beat yourself up. Who would''ve thought you''d encounter such a demon!" Catherine quickly


    his background."


    "What about Zora''s background?" I asked Catherine, looking at her.

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37


    Upon hearing me mention Zora, Catherine chuckled in disbelief, shaking her head in resignation.


    She said, "Zora''s family background was a real circus. Her father was an alcoholic, often resorting to


    domestic violence. The reason for this was that her mother had been involved with a married man


    before marrying her father. She was publicly humiliated by the man''s wife, who stripped her naked and


    left her with ame leg. This was what drove her into the arms of Zora''s father.


    After their marriage, her mother seemed to have given up on her life. After all, she had been with a


    good-looking man, and now she was stuck with an unattractive alcoholic. She was naturally


    despondent."


    "She sounds like a real troublemaker," I sneered.


    "Absolutely, and she''s not the brightest bulb either," Catherine agreed and continued. "The early days


    of their marriage were bearable as her husband treated her well, but her own actions soon wore his


    patience thin. After another provocation, he beat her mercilessly.


    Once domestic violence starts, it doesn''t stop. Even when she was pregnant with Zora, she wasn''t


    spared. Zora grew up in such a household."


    "Well, she certainly doesn''t deserve any pity, following in her mother''s footsteps without remorse," I


    sighed. "Looks like she''s lucky to have met me!"


    Catherine couldn''t help butugh, "You''ve hit the nail on the head. She has a knack for trouble. She


    dropped out of school and left home at 17, and she had been working as a housekeeper, always


    aiming to marry rich. Once, she was caught seducing her employer and was beaten before she ended


    up in Goldenvale Town. She has quite a history in that respect!"


    "No wonder she''s been working at my ce for eight years. She''s been waiting for her big break," I


    even tried to hurt me in secret!"


    Catherine looked puzzled, "Hurt you in secret?"


    I pointed to the painful spot on my head for Catherine to inspect. "This is the evidence of her


    ndestine abuse!"


    When Catherine leaned in to take a closer look, her eyes instantly red with anger, "Damn, Aaliyah,


    why didn''t you say anything sooner? This woman... No, we need to call the police, have her arrested!"


    After taking a photo of my head with her phone, she showed me the image.


    The picture showed a bruised and battered scalp, littered with puncture wounds. Even I was taken


    aback by how severe it looked. It was clear I had been in a deep sleep at the time.


    "Aaliyah, what are you waiting for? Have her arrested, let her rot in jail!" Catherine hugged my head,


    sobbing, "My dear Allie, how could this happen to you? How could this be!"


    After a while, I slowly straightened up, tucked my hair and looked at Catherine, saying calmly, "What


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    good would arresting her do? Prison is toofortable for her. After a few years, she''ll be out and able


    to start over. That''s too easy. She should taste what her mother had to endure, experience what it feels


    like to wish for death."


    Catherine instantly understood my meaning. She grabbed my hands, squeezing them tightly, "Count


    me in, I''ll help you! You''re right, she needs to learn what it truly means to wish for death."


    "Great, then first you can help me with something!" I looked at her expectantly.


    "Tell me! Whatever it is, if it helps you get your revenge, I''m all in!"


    I pulled Catherine in close and whispered my n into her ear. The more Catherine listened, the more


    excited she became. pping her chest, she said, "Deal, let''s do this!"


    We added a few more details to the n and left the caf¨¦, satisfied. As we were about to leave, we saw


    two people exiting a bank across the street.


    I quickly pulled Catherine back into the caf¨¦ and pointed them out to her.

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38


    The two men were Jan and his brother Jerome. Jerome was deep in conversation with Jan, who


    stood arms folded, interjecting asionally.


    Without thinking, Catherine blurted out, "These two brothers are surely up to no good. They''re as thick


    as thieves."


    I was about toment when another man hurriedly approached. I looked closer and was taken


    aback. "I know this man. He used to be a salesman in thepany when I was there. His name is


    Daniel."


    I pointed him out to Catherine. "This guy tried to y both sides and got kicked out of thepany.


    How does he know Jan?"


    "Nothing good, I bet. I''ll get Logan to keep an eye on Jan, see what he''s up to," Catherine said


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    shrewdly. "Knowing the enemies well, you shall win a hundred battles!"


    "Sounds good, but remember to be careful. Jerome is bad. He doesn''t act decently." I warned


    Catherine. "So, I suspect he''s the one who can connect with the ck market."


    Daniel approached Jan, giving him a subservient nod before handing him a document bag. Jan


    took it and flicked through the documents, nodding while Daniel hurriedly added something.


    He then opened his car door, ced the document bag on the passenger seat, and said something to


    Jerome.


    Jerome and Daniel waved goodbye to Jan and walked away together.


    Jan promptly got into his car, apparently having been waiting for the documents.


    Watching them leave, Catherine turned to me,ining, "That was close! Why are we so unlucky,


    always bumping into them? I hope that scoundrel isn''t heading home."


    Honestly, that was my concern too.


    I thought for a moment, then pulled out my phone and turned it off.


    Grabbing Catherine''s arm, I said, "Let''s go."


    I led the way out of the caf¨¦.


    Catherine followed closely behind. We got into her car, and she looked at me with worry. "Allie, are you


    sure about going back like this?"


    I kept quiet, my brain spinning. I was worried that if Jan went home now and found Zora still asleep,


    he would be suspicious.


    Seeing my silence, Catherine grew more anxious. "How about I go with you? I can say I called you and


    picked you up."


    I shook my head. "No, we can''t reveal our connection yet. Remember the hospital incident? If Jan


    sees us together now, he''ll surely link it to that. I think Jerome is already suspicious, or Jan wouldn''t


    have rushed back that night."


    "What should we do then? I''m worried about you going back alone." Catherine expressed her concern.


    "It''s okay, I''ll y it by ear," I replied casually. "This will also test whether Jan will make a move on


    me. If he doesn''t, then they must be plotting something."


    "Oh shit! What if they do? Are you risking your life?" Catherine stopped the car abruptly, looking at me


    with worry.


    "I don''t think they will. So, this is a good opportunity to test them. Do you think I''m not in danger if I


    don''t test them? I''ve been walking on thin ice!" I said firmly. "The most dangerous scenario is not


    finding out their real intentions."


    "In that case, I''ll stay nearby. If you''re okay, send me a message. If I don''t hear from you, I''ll call the


    police. You have one hour!" Catherine reminded me. I nodded in agreement, and she continued driving.


    Just then, we passed a hair salon, which was very close to ourmunity. I quickly asked her to stop,


    "Catherine, stop the car!"


    She looked at me in confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    "Turn around a bit," I directed her, and sheplied.


    I unbuckled my seat belt and said, "Go ahead, don''t let themunity''s surveince cameras catch


    you."


    Then I got out of the car and walked into the hair salon.

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39


    When I finally dragged myself through the front door, Jan was in the middle of an argument with


    Zora. He stopped abruptly at the sight of me, surprise etched on his face.


    I didn''t even bother to take off my shoes before I copsed onto the couch, kicked off my sneakers and


    sprawled out, gasping for breath.


    The short walk from the entrance of our residentialmunity had felt like a marathon, and it was a


    miracle that I made it home at all.


    Jan strode over to me, his eyes wide with disbelief. "What happened to you? And your hair...?"


    I ran a hand through my freshly cut pixie, shrugging nonchntly. "What''s wrong with it? It saves me


    from dealing with hair fall."


    I knew Jan wasn''t a fan of women with short hair. Back when he was a stylist, he never did short


    hairstyles. He''d initially been drawn to me because of my long, lustrous locks that fell right down to my


    waist. But that was a long time ago; my hair was now dull and lifeless, more straw than silk.


    Jan stared at me for a long while before turning on his heel and heading upstairs. I couldn''t help but


    smirk. Who was he to dictate my choices? From this point forward, I decided, it was either him or me.


    Zora, seeing Jan heading upstairs, came over with Carl in her arms. Her face was a mixture of worry


    and anger. "Mydy, why did you leave the house? When did you leave? Who let you?"


    Her barrages of questions were clearly the result of pent-up frustration from the argument with Jan.


    Oh, and there were five clear handprints on her face. Looks like someone had gotten a good p.


    I could barely contain myughter.


    "What were you doing out there?" she asked, just as Jan came back downstairs with a nket.


    I fixed her with a cold stare, making no attempt to mask my irritation. "I left when you were asleep. Is it


    a crime now for me to step out of my own house? Do I need to ask your permission to leave? Even if I


    wanted to tell you, I failed to wake you up! Can''t you see what I did while I was out? Are you using


    me, Zora?"


    Caught off guard by my retort, Zora could only stare. She nced nervously at Jan, who was now


    making his way towards us, and took a step back. Then, her face broke into a forced smile as she tried


    to exin. "Mydy, I didn''t mean it like that, I was just..."


    "I don''t care if you were sleeping or not," I cut her off, "but next time, don''t speak to me in that tone.


    You''ve been here long enough to know your ce, haven''t you?" I continued, "And if you''re struggling


    with work, I can hire another housekeeper. You''re not here to criticize me."


    I then turned to Jan. "Did you instruct her to not let me leave the house? And don''t tell me it''s


    because of my health! That''s no excuse to deny me my freedom!"


    "Jan, we need to send Carl to a daycare," I added, "and hire a proper cook. Zora is overworked, and


    she deserves a break."


    Zora''s face turned white. She quickly stepped forward. "Mydy, I''m sorry... I was worried about you.


    You disappeared all of a sudden, and Jan was very upset. I was just concerned for your safety,


    especially considering your health..."


    I gave her a thin smile. "It''s alright, Zora. I won''t hold it against you."


    I then turned to Jan, who was now covering me with the nket. "Jan, I think I need to see a


    doctor about my scalp."


    "What happened?" Jan asked, with concern on his face.


    "The hairdresser took a photo and told me there might be an issue," I exined, pulling out my phone


    and showing him the picture.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40


    This time, Jan''s reaction was subtle. He paused for a moment before furrowing his eyebrows in


    confusion, hesitantly reaching out to take my phone. "What''s this about?"


    I fixed my gaze on him, a smirk tugging at the corners of my mouth. "Remember that headache I told


    you about? The one you said wasn''t a big deal?"


    Zora, although maintaining a calm facade, seemed stiff, pretending to soothe Carl as if nothing was


    wrong.


    "Do you still have the headache?" His concern was evident as he leaned in closer, checking me over.


    "This doesn''t seem right. You didn''t have this issue when you showed me a few days ago. We need to


    see a doctor!"


    "Yeah, I mentioned it to Zora a few days ago too, and she also brushed it off. But the hairdresser


    noticed it today. He was scared of being held responsible, so he took a photo for me to see. Honey,


    don''t you think we need to figure out what''s going on?" I pointed a finger at Zora. Pretending like


    nothing was wrong wouldn''t work with me.


    I continued to press the matter, hoping to create a rift between the two.


    "We do need to go to the hospital," Jan agreed, his tone decisive. He nced at his watch. "It''ste


    and you''re tired. We''ll go tomorrow morning. Remember to fast since the tests require an empty


    stomach."


    His arrangements were wless. Medical tests did require fasting.


    I nodded in approval. "Alright, I''m tired. I want to rest. Don''t disturb me."


    With that, I headed upstairs, leaving the two of them behind. I had to inform Catherine about the


    situation and call off the alert.


    I was certain that my actions had nted the seeds of discord between them.


    To prevent Zora from doing something drastic, I pretended to be too tired and ''slept'', skipping dinner. I


    couldn''t let my guard down until I found the drug I was looking for.


    In the middle of the night, hunger woke me up. I sat up abruptly, startling Jan who was sleeping


    beside me. He quickly switched on the light and asked softly, "What''s wrong, darling?"


    "I''m hungry," I replied honestly, feeling listless.


    He immediately got up. "I''ll ask Zora to make you some food."


    "No, I want the steak made by you. It''s been ages since I had it," I saidzily.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    If I had wanted to eat her cooking, I wouldn''t have starved myself till now.


    "Alright! I''ll make you a steak then," Jan agreed, quickly getting out of bed. "Just wait here."


    As I watched him, the perfect image of a dutiful husband, I couldn''t help but feel perplexed. How could


    he be nning to harm me?


    "I''ll join you. I need to move around a bit to ease the ache in my hips," I said, following him downstairs.


    I chatted with him about random things while he cooked, creating an atmosphere of warmth despite our


    hidden motives.


    Probably alerted by the noise, Zora came downstairs in her nightgown, the neckline revealing a


    generous amount of skin.


    Surprised to see me there, she quickly adjusted her neckline before heading to the water dispenser to


    get a ss of water.


    I raised an eyebrow and quickly asked, "Zora, could you fetch me a sweater? It''s a bit chilly."


    Reluctantly, she put down her ss and went upstairs.


    While Jan was pouring some wine, I quickly dropped half a pill of Midazm into her water ss,


    gave it a shake, and then sat down at the dining table to cut the steak.


    Right as Jan was cing the decanter on the table and turning to grab the wine sses, I tossed


    the remaining half pill into the decanter.


    "Drinking wine in the middle of the night?" I put a piece of steak into my mouth,menting casually.


    Just as Zora came back downstairs with my sweater and draped it over me, she stole a nce at


    Jan.


    I turned to look at her, asking nonchntly, "Zora, would you like to join us for a ss of wine?"

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41


    She quickly waved her hands, "No need, ma''am! I''m just parched. Here for water."


    She then took arge gulp from her water ss, a cover-up for her guilt. "I''m going to bed now, just


    leave the dishes, I''ll clean up in the morning."


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    I gave her a soft smile, "Sure!"


    Jan was acting aloof and indifferent, pretending not to see Zora''s presence.


    I cursed under my breath. How could I have not seen the snakes in my own backyard?


    Suddenly, the steak in front of me lost its appeal.


    Jan sipped wine and noticed my disinterest, "Why aren''t you eating? Is it undercooked?"


    "My taste buds are off. I must have overdosed on medication. Nothing tastes good!" I replied, then


    asked, "Honey, eating now won''t affect tomorrow''s check-up, right?"


    "No!" he stated firmly.


    I was skeptical, would he really take me to the hospital?


    Jan kindly cut my steak into smaller pieces, watching me eat. Once I''d finished, he smiled


    contentedly, "Such a good girl."


    By then, I noticed his eyelids drooping. I stretched and said self-deprecatingly, "I feel like a pig after


    eating, so sleepy! My eyes can barely stay open."


    "Tired? Let''s go to bed then, I''m tired too," he said, standing up and leading me to our room. He was


    eager to copse on the bed, wrapping his arms around my waist.


    Once a sweet gesture, now it made my skin crawl. I gritted my teeth and waited until he fell into a deep


    sleep.


    "Darling!" I called out.


    He was as unresponsive as a dead pig, snoring, his head heavy on my shoulder.


    I pushed his head away, "Your head is so heavy! I can''t breathe."


    He didn''t react. I knew he was out cold.


    I shrugged his arm off me, muttering, "Stupid pig."


    I got out of bed, put on my shoes, gave onest nce at the snoring Jan, then quietly left the room.


    I peeked into Zora''s room, she was in the same state as Jan.


    Damn it! A pair of stupid pigs.


    I headed to the study, found Jan''s car keys in his bag, and headed downstairs.


    I was still bothered by the documents Daniel gave him. How could Jan know Daniel? Daniel was a


    contact I used a long time ago, back when Jan hadn''t taken over thepany yet.


    Seeing Daniel today was surprising. How did they connect? Birds of a feather flock together, I guess.


    I got into the car, searched around but didn''t find what I was looking for. Instead, I found Jan''s phone


    wedged in the driver''s seat.


    I paused, why was his phone in the car?


    Wait a minute, he took a call before going to bed! I remembered clearly, he took a call after showering,


    then put the phone in his pocket.


    So, what''s this one?


    I examined the phone, it was identical to the one Jan uses frequently. It was turned off!


    I tried turning it on, the battery was full.


    Driven by curiosity, I entered Jan''s usual password, but it failed. Then I remembered hisputer''s


    password and tried that. Sess!


    It was clear now, this was Jan''s other phone.


    I swallowed nervously. This phone had very few apps installed. I checked the contact list, all unfamiliar


    names, none I recognized.


    This phone must be Jan''s secret.

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42


    I was thrilled. I turned on the Bluetooth, exported all the contacts and their phone numbers from the


    device, imported them into my new phone, then deleted the export record.


    The gallery in this phone was squeaky clean, not a single photo.


    There were just a few friends on his WhatsApp, and most didn''t have any chat history, except for one


    nicknamed AzureEnchantress, who was pinned to the top.


    From the chat history, it seemed they were in frequent touch, but oddly, all I could see were timestamps


    and texts like, "The usual ce, I''ll be thereter," suggesting they mostly arranged to meet and didn''t


    chat much here.


    I checked their meeting schedule, and it seemed they met weekly, although at irregr times.


    Opening AzureEnchantress'' profile revealed nothing.


    I took a screenshot of her WhatsApp profile and saved it on my phone. Then, I zoomed in on her profile


    picture, which was a digital drawing of a blue flower, drawn with refined and graceful strokes. Its


    vibrant, clear blue color was soothing to the eye, probably what people refer to as Klein blue.


    Despite not being able to determine its gender, I guessed that AzureEnchantress must be a woman.


    There was an active group in the WhatsApp directory that caught my eye, named "High-rollers


    Hangout."


    This group was quite conspicuous in the directory, with thousands of unread messages indicating its


    activity.


    I assumed it was a group for up-anding entrepreneurs in Goldenvale Town, but the chat history


    suggested otherwise. It was filled with all sorts of off-color jokes and nonsense ¡ª exactly the kind of


    lowbrow humor that Jan would enjoy.


    To my surprise, I found AzureEnchantress in the group, and she was the group admin.


    Curious, I took a screenshot of the group member list.


    The chat history kept increasing, and I didn''t have the patience to keep reading. After a quick scan, I


    exited.


    Disdainfully, I muttered to myself, "What a bunch of rabble!"


    I then opened the text messages and was shocked to see that they were all from various banks. I


    checked one by one, and they were all transaction records.


    A few were forrge sums of money, and I didn''t understand where the money was going. The


    receiver''s address was in a foreignnguage, so I quickly took a screenshot.


    Could it be a foreign bank?


    What was strange was the infrequency of iing transactions. Most were outgoing, and the ount


    bnce was always quite low after each transaction.


    This didn''t make sense. Why were there so many outgoing transactions and so few iing ones?


    My heart began to race. A sense of impending doom washed over me.


    I checked the other apps, but there was nothing valuable, so I quickly turned off the phone and put it


    back where I found it.


    I then meticulously searched the car again, even looking under the seats, but couldn''t find the


    documents Daniel had given him. They must have been taken to his study.


    I rushed out of the car and back up to the house, heading straight for the study.


    I was confident they wouldn''t wake up anytime soon.


    There were no new documents on the desk.


    I looked for his keys, thinking that if the documents were important to him, he would have locked them


    up.


    The hiddenpartment in the statue was empty, and the keys were nowhere to be found. I regretted


    not checking the drawers when the power was out.


    I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and thought about all the ces he could have put the keys.


    I couldn''t think of any other ces. Had he not left them at home?


    But if he brought the documents home and they weren''t in the car, they had to be in the study, and the


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    keys would naturally be in the house.


    But I had checked all the possible ces. Where could he have put such arge set of keys...?


    Suddenly, a light bulb went off in my head. Arge set of keys...


    I rushed to the desk, grabbed the pen holder, and dumped everything out onto the table. Finally, a


    small golden key clinked onto the surface.


    Bingo!


    I grabbed the key, walked around the desk, and headed for the second drawer on the right. I inserted


    the key, turned it, and the drawer opened.

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43


    Sure enough, the keys were right there in the drawer, and I was overjoyed.


    That was my habit, keeping important things in the second drawer on the right of my desk.


    Jan, having lived with me for a while, had grown ustomed to this habit as well.


    I took out the keys and went straight to the safe, inputting the same code he uses for hisptop. Sure


    enough, the lock clicked open.


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The safe wasn''t overflowing, just some cash, foreign currency, and a box containing a few of my


    valuable pieces of jewelry.


    But what caught my attention most were the documents stacked inside.


    I felt a strange, creeping anxiety as I reached in with trembling hands, pulling out the stack of papers.


    I was taken aback when I firstid eyes on the documents.


    The top one was a property mortgage contract, but as I dug deeper, my surprise turned into a gasp of


    cold, hard realization.


    These mortgage contracts included shares in thepany, a plot ofnd we had originally nned to


    build a factory on, several of our real estate properties, including those under my name, my car, and


    even the vi we were living in. The absurd part was, there were two mortgage contracts for the vi.


    Upon closer inspection, I realized it had been mortgaged twice.


    My heart sank, chilling me to the bone. What the hell was Jan up to?


    Underneath these contracts, I found two of my insurance policies, both with substantial coverage, one


    for serious illness and the other for idents, with Jan as the beneficiary.


    Although every family member was covered, mine had the highest amount. And of course, he was the


    beneficiary.


    The thought filled me with dread. The dates on the policies ranged from a few years ago to just two


    years ago. I vaguely remembered that after I gave birth to Carl, Jan had insisted I have a thorough


    medical checkup.


    Could that have been a standard insurance medical exam? And then I...


    Tears welled uncontrobly in my eyes. That beast.


    If I were to die, these policies would make him rich overnight. No matter how I died, he would be able to


    im the insurance.


    I quickly took photos of all the contracts, then locked everything back up with shaking hands.


    The silence around me was suffocating, filling me with an indescribable fear. I slumped onto the floor.


    This house, which I had always seen as a warm, happy sanctuary, now felt like a trap about to swallow


    me whole. I feltpletely powerless.


    After a while, I managed to get up and started opening the other drawers. Finally, I found what I was


    looking for. I recognized the bag with the bright red logo on it. It was also in the second drawer on the


    right, but I had overlooked it while searching for the keys.


    It was a report on VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. The shareholder list included my father''s name.


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals!


    Could it be that Jan was targeting VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals? Is that why he went to Silverdale City?


    Suddenly, a ''thud'' echoed in the quiet room, startling me. I quickly stuffed the report back into the bag


    and put everything back the way it was.


    My mind was racing as I considered the worst-case scenarios. I tiptoed to the study door, pressing my


    ear against it to listen. There didn''t seem to be anyone up.


    Mustering up my courage, I opened the door. All was quiet again. I let out a breath and tiptoed back to


    the master bedroom, slowly pushing open the door.


    "Mew," my cat Milo called out from inside.


    I tip-toed in, ncing at Jan who was still snoring away on the bed. I then bent down to pick up Milo,


    stroking him a few times. The little traitor probably missed me and knocked something over while


    looking for me.


    I patted his head, whispering "You scared me half to death, Milo."


    Holding Milo, I gently climbed back into bed and let out a sigh of relief. Just as I was about to fall


    asleep, Jan rolled over. The drugs must be wearing off, he could wake up at any moment. I


    instinctively kissed my cat.


    This cat truly was my guardian angel.

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44


    The next day.


    Jan woke up, rubbing his neck and wincing in difort.


    I asked, feigning confusion, "What''s up? Why are you constantly rubbing your neck?"


    Of course, I knew why. I was the one who''d shaken his head the previous night.


    "I haven''t slept that deeply in ages!" Jan replied, getting out of bed. "You should get some more


    sleep."


    "More sleep? Aren''t we supposed to be heading to the hospital?" I asked, annoyed.


    He paused, as if remembering something, "Oh, right! Ipletely forgot!"


    "Why are you so careless about my health? The other day when Iined of a headache, you


    dismissed it. It''s only been a few days. It took the hairdresser to notice something was wrong. I''m


    starting to think you''re doing this on purpose," I said bluntly.


    "Honey, I swear I didn''t see anything when you showed me. I''m innocent! Let''s go to the hospital,"


    Jan pleaded, appearing innocent.


    Of course, we never made it to the hospital. As we were about to leave, Jerome called. Their father


    Farley Dawson was having a seizure, and Jan needed to rush over.


    I smirked. What convenient timing! I simply couldn''t believe such a coincidence.


    "Let''s go together. I want to see him," I said with an anxious expression.


    It felt like a y, and I was ready to give a performance.


    Jan held me back, "Allie, you should stay here. I''ll check on him, and if it''s serious, I''lle back for


    you."


    I relented, "Fine, I''ll stay. In poor health, I don''t want to cause any trouble."


    And with that, Jan left, promising toe back for me. But he didn''t return. Not for three days.


    During those three days, I didn''t sit idly by. I was busy making arrangements.


    First, I visited the hospital and had a thorough check-up. Then, I arranged for Carl to be admitted to the


    preschool that took Robert in. He''d be a hinderance in what I had to do next - settle scores with Zora.


    I had Logan fetch me a bunch of the highest-grade pinhole cameras on the market. While Zora was out


    like a light, I installed them in the most concealed spots around the house. Counter-surveince was


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    the key if I were to crack this do-or-die puzzle.


    I''d made early arrangements with an experienced nanny, on standby for my call to start working.


    Everything set, and Catherine went straight to Silverdale City. She had her own mission.


    Just thinking about Jan''s transfer records made my heart pound out of my chest.


    On a sudden hunch, I checked our shared bank ount. I was stunned to find that a huge sum of


    money was missing. No deposits had been made for a good while, either. We were on the brink of


    going broke.


    This discovery left me weak-kneed. Amid all the confusions and changes, it hit me - Jan had been


    scheming to make me bankrupt all along.


    Enough blueprinting the troubles! I was preparing for a battle.


    And when everything was ready, Jan finally returned home.


    The moment he stepped through the door, I confronted him, "Honey, why is there so much money


    missing from our joint ount?"


    He looked surprised. He clearly hadn''t expected me to notice so soon. His face changed, and he


    looked annoyed.


    He sat next to me, tiredly rubbing my head, "I''ve invested in a project recently. The technology it uses is


    groundbreaking. The clinical data was promising too.


    I''ve been studying it for a while now, and I wanted to monopolize it. That''s why it required arge


    investment. You weren''t feeling well recently, and I didn''t want to stress you out. So, I made the


    decision without consulting you. Allie, are you mad at me?"


    And just like that, the performance had begun. He was quite the actor.

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45


    Seeing Jan''s performance, I couldn''t afford to fall behind.


    "Oh,e on, it''s not that grave!" I said calmly, "However, investments need to be cautious. It''s not


    wise to touch the money in the family ount. We have to think long term. After all, we have three


    kids, and we need to secure their future.


    You know as well as I do, the higher the profit, the higher the risk in business. We need toy a solid


    foundation for the kids. If the business fails, we can always bounce back. But we can''t gamble with the


    kids'' future."


    I was resolute, "This money is off-limits. You better return it as soon as possible!"


    Jan remained silent, didn''t readily agree to repay the money.


    "Honey, there''s no need to be upset. My health isn''t great, and I''m feeling insecure. You have to


    understand! I''m still the homemaker here. If there''s no money in the family ount, how am I


    supposed to feel at ease?" I reasoned, "I can''t help you with the business right now, but you''ve got to


    let me feel secure about household matters, right?"


    "Fine!" Jan''s tone was somewhat impatient, "Once I get the payment, I''ll return the money!"


    With that, he stood up to go upstairs. I stopped him, seizing the opportunity, "Honey, I contacted


    Probert''s former preschool principal yesterday. I''m thinking about sending Carl there in the next few


    days!"


    Before Jan could respond, Zora rushed out of the kitchen, "Madam, isn''t it a bit early to send Carl to


    the preschool? Maybe we should wait a bit longer!"


    Ignoring her, I continued, "He needs to learn something. Monique and Probert were already babbling


    rhymes at his age. The only thing Carl has learned so far is how to hit people! It''s best to let the


    teachers discipline him at preschool!"


    I said this for Zora''s benefit, indicating that I''m aware of her encouraging Carl to hit me. Does she really


    think I would swallow it?


    And, I deliberately chose this moment to tell Jan, since he was in the wrong about the money.


    Obviously, he can''t interfere with sending our kid to preschool.


    Jan paused, thought for a moment, and responded, "Whatever you say!"


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zora seemed frustrated, calling out, "Sir¡­"


    Jan didn''t even nce at her, heading straight upstairs, coldly saying, "Do your job!"


    Zora mped her mouth shut, not daring to speak again.


    Since Jan agreed, I didn''t hesitate. The next day, Jan and I sent Carl to preschool. I couldn''t let


    Zora use my child as a shield anymore.


    When sending Carl, Zora insisted oning along. Seeing Carl crying heartrendingly and constantly


    looking at Jan, my heart ached.


    Jan turned to me, asking, "Is he too young?"


    I snapped back, "Is this your first time being a dad? Didn''t our first two cry when we sent them?"


    With that, I gritted my teeth, got in the car, and Zora looked at me pleadingly, "Can I stay here a bit


    longer? If he can''t adapt, I''ll bring him back!"


    I didn''t expect Zora to care so much about Carl. I couldn''t tell if this was a blessing for Carl, a tragedy


    for me, or just her ulterior motives.


    But thinking about the missing drug, my heart hardened.


    I just don''t believe this vixen could actually be kind-hearted. If I make a move against her and she uses


    the child as leverage, I would be helpless.


    "Go! It''s necessary. If worstes to worst, he''ll cry for a few days, get a little sick, and then he''ll


    adapt!" I said, hard-hearted.


    Zora reluctantly got in the car with us, even shed some tears.


    Ha! She was really into it, more than me, his own mother. If you didn''t know better, you''d think she was


    his mother!


    That day, both Zora and I were a bit distracted. It wasn''t even four o''clock when Zora knocked on my


    door, asking if we could pick up Carl early.


    I sat up from the bed, yawning, "I''ll go with you!"


    Zora immediately said sincerely, "No need, ma''am, I can go. You wait at home!"


    Her response was exactly what I wanted. I nodded my approval and even let her drive my car to pick


    him up.


    Soon, I saw Zora, all dressed up, happily driving my car away from the house.

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46


    Watching her car pull away, I made my way to Zora''s room and quickly found her wallet. I snapped a


    picture of her bank card and ID, then sent it off to a friend of mine who worked at the bank, asking her


    to check the transaction history for me.


    I had a hunch that Zora was making more money than what I was paying her. I was curious to see how


    much Jan was shelling out for his, shall we say, sex partner.


    After all, information mattered. I''d been out of the loop for too long.


    Shortly after, my phone buzzed with the information I''d requested. Just as I suspected, Zora''s ount


    was receivingrge sums of money every month, much more than I had anticipated.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    With a self-deprecatingugh, I realized that Zora was living a far morefortable life than I was at


    the moment.


    Jan was certainly generous with her. The realization left a bitter taste in my mouth.


    This made me think about the ''threat'' Jan had mentioned. What could Zora possibly have on him


    that would make him part with his money so willingly?


    In addition, I found something else in the transaction history. Every month, Zora was transferring a


    small amount of money, just $300, to another ount at the same bank.


    I quickly made another call to my friend, asking her to look into this ount.


    Within minutes, she told me the ount belonged to a ra Rhylee.


    Suddenly, it all made sense. ra must be Zora''s sister. Catherine had mentioned that Zora had a


    sister.


    I immediately called Logan, asking her to find out where ra was and what she was up to.


    By the time Zora returned with our son Carl, Logan had already gotten me ra''s information. Looking


    over the file, an audacious idea formed in my mind. With a satisfied smile, I sank back into the couch.


    Things were getting interesting.


    Carl was a resilient little guy. After three days of crying, he was ready to go to the preschool without a


    fuss. That was a relief.


    But Jan had beening hometer andter these days.


    I asked him about it in front of Zora, "You''ve been pretty busytely. Is there a lot going on at the


    office?"


    Jan nodded, "The project I mentioned to you is at a crucial stage. I can''t afford to let up!"


    I scoffed in my mind at his words. If anything, he was probably reveling in his activities, not "letting up".


    Logan''s surveince had indicated that Jan was indeed very busy, but not with work. He was busy


    entertaining women.


    Logan had managed to decrypt some files on hisputer. The financial statements I saw there


    confirmed my suspicions. Jan had been bleeding thepany dry for quite some time.


    He kept telling me how challenging it was to run a business when, in reality, thepany was doing


    pretty well. But the books showed constant losses, a clear sign he was siphoning off assets.


    That bastard. That was mypany, built from my hard work and effort. All the capital hade from


    my family, the Wilburns. Now, Jan was living high on the hog, nning to discard me when I was no


    longer useful.


    Unfortunately, my health wasn''t up to the task of confronting him head-on. Although Dr. Edmond''s


    medication was helping, my health wasn''t going to improve overnight.


    I put on a frail act, spending my days bedridden, but my mind was as sharp as ever. I couldn''t afford to


    waste a single minute.


    Seeing him y the part of the dutiful husband right in front of me, I knew it was time to up the ante.


    Just as I was plotting my next move, an unexpected guest arrived at our usually quiet home early on a


    Saturday morning.

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47


    Because it was Saturday, Jan had no work and little Carl didn''t have to go to the preschool, so


    everyone had azy start.


    Zora was busily preparing breakfast while I yed with blocks with Carl on the couch, and Jan had


    just descended the stairs.


    The doorbell rang and Jan strode to answer it.


    The unexpected guest left us all stunned.


    But none were more shocked than Zora.


    When she saw who had entered, she stood frozen in ce before setting down the bowl she was


    holding. She quickly walked over, grabbed the girl who hade in, and started to pull her back


    outside, urgently whispering, "Why are you here?"


    The girl struggled subtly.


    "Zora, who is this? Why won''t you let her in?" I asked.


    Zora stopped and turned to look at me, her mouth twitched slightly before hurriedly exining, "Sir,


    Ma''am... it''s... it''s my sister!"


    By now, Jan, who had answered the door, had returned and took his usual seat, watching the drama


    unfold with a deep gaze.


    The girl, looking timid, waved at us and greeted us in a shy voice, "Hello, sir, ma''am!"


    I cast azy nce her way. A seemingly innocent girl, as pure as a daisy, had walked in.


    She was shorter than Zora, petite and looked slightly malnourished.


    Wearing a white knitted sweater, a floral skirt with a blue base, and a pair of white shoes, she looked


    refreshingly simple. It fit her modest $300 monthly budget.


    Entering, her eyes nervously scanned the room, clearly filled with astonishment, quickly followed by a


    sh of envy.


    "Come in and sit down!" I said in a friendly tone. "Zora, you have a sister? All these years, you''ve never


    mentioned your family."


    Zora seemed a bit flustered, she nced at Jan, still trying to push her sister out.


    I beckoned to the girl, "Come in and sit down. Zora, get the food ready!"


    Then I turned to the girl, "You haven''t had breakfast yet, have you?"


    "No... not yet!" She forced a smile, nced at her sister, and nervously said, "I came to see my sister


    about something!"


    "Why didn''t you just call? Whye all the way here?" Zora scolded her in a low voice.


    "I... I''ve been calling you for the past couple of days, but you didn''t pick up. I was worried, so... I came


    to find you!" She said, looking timidly at Zora, like a frightened little bunny.


    "Let''s talk while we eat!" Jan, who had been silent, finally spoke and stood up to go to the dining


    room.


    I chuckled inwardly. A hawk would never let a bunny go.


    I indicated to Zora to pick up Carl.


    Then I also got up and said to the girl, "Since you''re here to see your sister, don''t be shy. You haven''t


    had breakfast, let''s eat together!"


    The girl looked timidly at Zora, who picked up Carl from the couch with a cold expression and said in a


    not-so-friendly tone, "Let''s eat then!"


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    The girl followed us closely to the dining room.


    As I sat down, I invited her to sit next to me and asked, "What''s your name? How old are you?"


    "ra!" Her soft voice was pleasing to the ear, "I''m 21!"


    "Are you studying?" I followed up.


    "Yes, I am!"


    "At Goldenvale Town University?" I asked curiously.


    "No, at Amethyst Acres University, majoring in Media!" She answered quietly.


    I had heard of Amethyst Acres University, a less reputable institution, and I already knew her


    background like the back of my hand.


    "So you''re about to graduate then!"


    "Yes... I''m currently looking for an internship, so... I thought I''d try in Goldenvale Town. There are more


    opportunities here!" ra said, ncing at Zora who was busy serving the food, as if she was afraid of


    her sister.


    Zora, after setting the table, coldly said, "Just find apany in Amethyst Acres for your internship.


    You''re going to go back to our hometown after graduation anyway, so stop wandering around!"


    "But... I don''t want to go back home!" ra''s voice grew fainter and her head hung lower.


    Zora''s face hardened when she heard ra say this.

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48


    "You can forget it. Who''s going to look after Mom and Dad if you don''t go back home?" Zora barked


    with a fury that seemed to make her voice louder.


    Her outburst startled me, and Jan shot her a cold nce.


    Visibly taken aback, Zora mped her mouth shut and lowered her gaze. She picked up adle and


    began serving soup to everyone.


    I quickly tried to defuse the situation, "Zora, don''t scare her. Let''s eat, and we can talk about itter."


    ra, looking like she was on the verge of tears, kept ncing at Zora and asionally at Jan who


    sat at the head of the table.


    I watched the scene in front of me with silent disdain.


    "Zora, is ra your only sister? And who else is back home? I''ve been oblivious about it," I asked,


    turning to Zora who was about to feed Carl.


    "I only have my parents and ra back home. I thought having someone at home to look after them


    would be good since I''m working out here and they''re getting old." She spoke as if she were the


    embodiment of filial piety.


    But in all the years she had been with us, I never saw her go back home, not even for the holidays.


    Despite my many offers to let her go home, she always refused.


    "It seems I''ve been negligent. I should''ve asked more about your family," I said with a hint of self-


    reproach.


    "No worries, ma''am," Zora replied nonchntly, while feeding Carl and casting a sidelong nce at


    ra. "Coming to Goldenvale isn''t easy. You need work harder here!"


    "But sis¡­"


    "Let''s eat!" Zora cut ra off before she could finish her sentence.


    ra ate her meal cautiously, barely making a sound, yet she managed to eat quite a lot.


    After dinner, we returned to the living room. ra sat there anxiously, until Jan, who had been silent


    the whole time, asked her, "What kind of internship are you looking for?"


    ra''s eyes lit up as she quickly responded, "Any position would do. I can handle it."


    As Jan sat on the couch, he scrutinized her with a serious look, "Then you can start as a receptionist


    at ourpany. Get used to it first."


    Upon hearing this, Zora came out of the kitchen, "Sir, it''s not a good idea. She has no work experience.


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She''ll only trouble you. And it''s too much hassle for her toe to Goldenvale. She doesn''t even have


    a ce to stay¡­"


    "Sis! I can learn. I''ll do well and won''t cause any trouble," ra quickly interjected, as if terrified of


    losing the opportunity Jan had just offered, "I just need a loan to start with. I can share an apartment


    with my friends. It won''t cost much. Once I start earning, I won''t ask you for money anymore," ra''s


    voice was feeble, but her words were calcted, conveying a clear message.


    "You were doing just fine in Amethyst Acres. Why insist oning to Goldenvale Town? I''m too busy to


    take care of you. I don''t have time to sort out your food and amodation!" Zora was losing her


    patience.


    "She can stay here for now! It would be good for you two to keep each otherpany. Let''s see how it


    goes," Jan suggested, turning to me, "Allie, what do you think?"


    I responded with a warm smile, "Sounds good! After all, ra is Zora''s sister. We should lend a hand.


    We''ve got a spare room, and it will be better than living with a roommate for ra. Plus, she can help


    Zora with Carl. Let''s settle with this."


    I had to seize this opportunity to do ra a favor. Having a young girl around would add some vibrancy


    to the house. I certainly wasn''t afraid of stirring up some drama.


    Zora stared at ra for a while without saying a word. ra, however, looked back at her sister with a


    mischievous smile, then turned to us and said, "Thank you, sir and ma''am!"


    "Zora, prepare a guest room for your sister downstairs. It will be more convenient for her to move


    around. If you need anything, just let me know," I instructed before adding, "I need to rest now."


    I stood up and Jan apanied me upstairs, exining that they were short of a receptionist as


    one had just resigned.


    I acknowledged with a nod, returned to my room and Jan went to his study.


    Back in my room, I chuckled to myself, picked up my phone and turned on the living room surveince.


    As I watched the scene below, I thought to myself, the real show is about to begin.

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49


    I had to marvel that, modern surveince equipment had made leaps and bounds over the old stuff. Not


    only was the video resolution high, but the sound was also crystal clear. It was like watching a soap


    opera.


    Downstairs, Zora, seeing that Jan and I had gone upstairs, grabbed ra''s arm. "How''d you find


    this ce? How did you know I was here?"


    ra, struggling to suppress a smirk, replied with a haughty tone, "Depends on whether I want to find


    you or not. If you look hard enough, you''ll find it. Sis, you''re something else. Living in such a fancy


    ce? Eating so well? You must be in the good graces of your employers!"


    Without us around, ra seemed much more rxed, ambling around the living room with her hands


    behind her back, looking here and there, her eyes filled with envy and greed.


    "Sis, you''re so sly. Living in such a nice ce and not giving me a heads up. That''s cold!" ra said,


    looking around and simultaneously grumbling about Zora. "Mom always said you''re heartless, that


    you''d disown your family. Guess she was right."


    "Quit talking nonsense. What do you mean, disown? If I was one to disown, would I still be sending you


    money every month? Don''t forget who paid for your education." Zora retorted as she yed with Carl.


    "Oh please! Just because you toss me a few bucks, I''m supposed to be grateful?" ra grumbled,


    pouting before she asked, "So, sis, you''re not short of money here, right?"


    "That''s none of your business!" Zora snapped back.


    "Wow, selfish much? Enjoying the high life while the rest of the family struggles. You really are


    something." rained, "Are you going to tell me how much they pay you?"


    Zora, red in the face, snapped, "ra, shut up! We''re fine at home. Have we evercked anything? If I


    were selfish, I wouldn''t give you a penny. What''s your real reason for being here?"


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ra, with a pitiful look on her face, confessed, "Sis, I''m broke. I''m about to graduate, and I need more


    money..."


    Her forthrightness left Zora fuming.


    ra looked innocently at Zora, "See, if I didn''te here to find you, how could I have stayed in


    Goldenvale Town so easily?"


    "ra, let me tell you. Since you''re here, behave yourself. This is not your yground. I''ve worked


    hard to stay here, don''t make it difficult for me, or we''ll both pay the price. Don''t say I didn''t warn you. I


    could send you back to our parents."


    "Hey, that''s not fair. Even though our dad always calls you a bastard, you''re still a Rhylee, and I''m your


    sister. It''s only right that you take care of me." ra replied ungratefully.


    Then she gave Zora an once-over and said sarcastically, "I see, you really have been working hard...I''ll


    work hard too!"


    "ra..." Zora was so angry she almost roared.


    "Do you always lose your temper like this? That''s not good! It''s clear that thedy of this house is very


    refined! I like it, she''s my idol!" ra said pointedly, with a look of mixed envy, jealousy and admiration,


    "What a life!"


    "You don''t even know who your real father is! Stop slinging mud at me! That family is nothing but


    trouble." Zora retorted, "You think this is a good life? Be careful what you wish for!"


    Zora was spot-on with thatstment, better not to wish for such a life!


    "Sis, I''ll y with the young master, you go tidy up a room for me!" ra moved closer to Zora and


    added, "Pick a nice room!"


    "Enough!" Zora was livid at ra''s audacity, she got up and walked away.


    Watching the sisterly drama unfold left me gobsmacked. Who knew the seemingly sweet and demure


    ra was anything but simple.


    Just then, the doorbell rang. I saw Zora, who''d been tidying a downstairs room, rush out to answer it.


    This morning was turning out to be quite the circus. I was curious to see who else was dropping by.

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50


    I got out of bed and peeked out the window towards the front gate.


    To my surprise, standing there was Catherine, a delightful sight. It seemed like she had returned from


    Silverdale City.


    I saw Zora stopping her at the gate, so I quickly opened the window and shouted, "Let her in!"


    Then, I hurried downstairs.


    Upon hearing themotion, Jan also followed suit.


    As my eyes locked with Catherine''s, we both broke into smiles and started our performances.


    "Allie, I''ve missed you so much! Had I not returned to Silverdale City, I wouldn''t have known you were


    back!" Catherine put arge bag and a box of toys on the coffee table, rushed over and gave me a tight


    hug, "Why didn''t you call me when you got back?"


    She pinched me hard, and I knew she had something to say.


    "Catherine, it''s been a while!" I responded ordingly, "You were in Silverdale City?"


    I led her towards the sofa, deliberately asking the question.


    "Indeed, it''s been a while since I''ve been back. There was some business in Silverdale City, so I took


    the opportunity to visit home, and also visit your parents."Catherine answered.


    Jan greeted Catherine enthusiastically with a smile, "Catherine, it''s great to see you!"


    "Is it? I''ve been here a few times but couldn''t even get past the gate!" Catherine shot back, "Your maid


    is too devoted to her job, she''spletely impartial but heartless!"


    I nearlyughed at herment, it was exactly what ra had said about Zora earlier.


    Zora looked embarrassed, so I signaled her, "You can go about your business!"


    Hearing this, those two women headed towards the guest room.


    I warmly invited Catherine to sit down. She scrutinized me up and down, eximing, "Allie, you''ve lost


    weight! And your hair¡­ why did you cut it?"


    I feigned helplessness and sighed, "I had to cut it after I fell sick and started losing a lot of hair."


    Catherine red at Jan reproachfully, "Mr. Dawson, you haven''t been taking good care of our


    Aaliyah!"


    Jan, with a forced smile, sat down next to me, "Catherine, you are right. I failed to take good care of


    Allie and let her suffer."


    "A man can''t always be busy with work. Your wife is your real treasure, especially Aaliyah, she''s a lucky


    charm, indispensable!" Catherine was fearless in her critique, her words packed with double meanings.


    Jan, clever as he was, understood the implication behind Catherine''s words, and humbly nodded in


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    agreement.


    Catherine, pleased with Jan''s response, pointed to therge bag she''d brought, "Allie, your father


    Galen sent you some family food from home. He told me to bring it to you!"


    I was moved to tears at the sight of the bag. Jan quickly brought it over,menting, "You parents


    are thoughtful. Allie has been quite picky with her foodtely. Now we have something appetizing."


    I looked through the bag, indeed, it was filled with my favorite dishes and snacks from home.


    Catherine picked up the big box and shook it at Carl, who was engrossed in y, "This is a toy for our


    little Carl!"


    Carl became excited and started moring for his dad to open it.


    I turned to Jan, "Why don''t you y with Carl for a bit? I''ll take Catherine for a chat in the room."


    Jan quickly agreed and courteously said to Catherine, "Then you two go ahead! It''s been a while


    since you saw each other, have a good chat. Catherine, don''t rush off, stay for lunch!"


    "Great! I''d love that!" Catherine readily agreed, and I warmly led her upstairs.


    Once in my room, I gestured for Catherine to keep quiet, opened my phone and checked the live feed


    of the surveince cameras. Jan was distractedly unwrapping Carl''s toy.


    With the surveince video running on my phone, I urged Catherine, "Quick, speak up. He''ll be here


    soon."


    Catherine hurriedly took out the medicine she had brought and handed it to me, whispering, "It seems


    Jan is indeed after your father''s shares in VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. During his recent visit, he


    deliberately inquired about your father."


    I pondered for a moment before replying, "That makes sense! He''s already got a grasp on the situation


    at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals."


    "Also, I got some news. Our oldmunity there might be turned into a tourist town by the


    government. Thepensation is said to be substantial. He couldn''t have missed that news."


    "Compensation?" I echoed.


    Catherine nodded, and we both understood what this meant.


    I sighed in resignation, "That seems to be the crux of the matter!"

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51


    Catherine agreed, nodding at my statement, "The mad dog must have gotten a whiff of something!"


    I clenched my fists tightly, ring at Jan on the mobile surveince screen, gnashing my teeth in


    anger, "He''s targeting the Wilburn family, not satisfied with what he''s reaped from us. That''s the real


    reason he stopped my medication¡ª the audacity."


    "We need to n our next move. I''ve seen the nanny he''s arranged, a middle-aged woman, not young!


    I''ve asked Ronan to dig into her background, but I didn''t dare hint anything to Galen. Once we know


    more about her, we''ll figure out a way to clue Galen in. You should think about how to break it to him,"


    Catherine advised.


    Before we could discuss further, I saw Jan leave the living room and head upstairs.


    Catherine and I exchanged a nce, shut off the mobile, and pretended to engage in a heated


    conversation¡ªI was lying on the bed while Catherine leaned against the couch.


    It took a while before Jan knocked and entered, clearly having eavesdropped on our chat. He didn''t


    want us to spend too much time alone.


    After lunch, Catherine was called away by a work call.


    As soon as Catherine left, I retreated to my room, tired but relieved, to rest and regain my strength¡ªmy


    main priority.


    I knew I was safe, at the very least until the city nning of Silverdale City was finalized. He would


    keep me alive.


    If Catherine''s information was urate, then our family would be the biggest beneficiary, since our old


    house was thergest and the yard the most distinctive. Thepensation would be extremely


    attractive. If I died, thepensation would have nothing to do with him!


    No wonder Jan suddenly stopped my medication when I was on the brink of death.


    Sure enough, a weekter, Jan finally took the time to apany me to the hospital. The


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Clearly the report was clearly faked by Jan, who had the doctor prescribe me medication


    nheless.


    Jan hugged me tightly, beaming, nearly asking for a reward. He shamelessly proimed that we


    could arrange the trip back to Silverdale City in a couple of days.


    For safety reasons, I had Catherine take the medicine to Dr. Edmond for examination the next day. The


    medicine had no issues and was indeed beneficial for my recovery, especially whenbined with Dr.


    Edmond''s antidote.


    I didn''t know whether to feel relieved or saddened. This time, I was genuinely convalescing.


    On Tuesday, I made a surprise visit to thepany for an inspection.


    Things had changed so much that if it weren''t for ra at the front desk, I wouldn''t have been able to


    enter my ownpany, let alone review thepany''s finances.


    Throughout thepany, the old-timers who''d been grinding alongside me, were dwindling to a


    handful.


    Thepany was now run by the Dawsons, the high-level managers were all rtives of theirs. The


    General Manager was Jesper Dawson, the only one who attended a non-prestigious university, and


    Jan''s sister, Jessica Dawson was in charge of finances.


    The situation was beyond what I had expected. I was prepared for Jan to make his moves after


    taking over, but I didn''t anticipate aplete reshuffling of the team. My confidants were all gone.


    It felt as if I had been transported to a strangend in an instant.


    After ra apanied me upstairs, the staff had already informed Jesper, who greeted me with a


    smile.


    "Aaliyah, why didn''t you tell us you wereing? I would have picked you up!" Jesper, dressed in a


    crisp suit, greeted me with a warm smile, his eyes hidden behind sses, subtly sweeping over ra


    who had apanied me.


    The Dawson men were all handsome. Jesper might not have been as attractive as his older brother


    Jan, but he had a distinctly refined demeanor.


    Back when I married Jan, Jesper was still in high school. His mediocre academic performance didn''t


    deter him from wanting to attend university. I ended up paying for him to attend a non-prestigious


    university, where he pursued a degree in economics and management.


    I never thought it woulde in handy.


    "I was bored at home, so I thought I''d drop by thepany," I replied, scanning the open-n office


    before asking Jesper, "Is Jan not in?"

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52


    Without a second thought, Jesper responded, "Jan went to the Harbor today. A shipment of


    equipment arrived, and he went to pick it up."


    "The Harbor? Isn''t that Addrion''s job? Why did he go personally?" I asked straight away.


    Addrion was an older college buddy of mine who had helped me a lot when I was just starting. After I


    registered mypany, I brought Addrion on board to handle transportation and external rtions. He


    was also one of my shareholders.


    "Addrion quit a while ago! He was caught smuggling personal items in our shipments, and he resigned


    voluntarily!" Jesper replied smoothly.


    "Smuggling?" I echoed with skepticism.


    Before Jesper could answer, Jessica pushed the door open and walked in.


    "Jesper, it''s time for the meeting, what are you still doing here?" she said as soon as she walked in.


    Jesper nced at Jessica and retorted, "Can''t you see our sister-inw is here? Tell them to dy the


    meeting."


    "Aaliyah? What brought you here?" Jessica seemed to notice me only then. She turned to the secretary


    who had just brought in the coffee and instructed, "Inform everyone that the meeting is dyed by ten


    minutes!"


    I smirked internally. It was clear that she was trying to get rid of me.


    Jessica sat down next to me with a forced smile and asked, "Are you feeling okay? You need to rest


    more!"


    "I''m fine! I got tired of lying around, and the doctor suggested I get some exercise. I thought I''d drop by


    thepany and join Jan for lunch!" I replied nonchntly. "I didn''t expect you all to be here and so


    busy!"


    "Jan is very busy, running around all day. It''s not like it was when you were here. Thepetition is


    intense now, we have to run our legs ragged to sell a single piece of equipment." Jessica was indirectly


    hinting at our financial difficulties.


    "Well, you guys carry on! I won''t wait for Jan anymore. I won''t hold you up any longer!" I said as I


    stood up. "Tell Jan I stopped by when he gets back."


    Jessica immediately stood up and said apologetically, "I''m so sorry, it''s just bad timing. We have a


    sales report meeting. Why don''t you wait, I''ll call Jan and ask him toe back?"


    "No, don''t bother. I just came out for some fresh air and happened to swing by. I don''t want to hold up


    your work. I''ll be going now."


    I diplomatically excused myself and headed for the door, ncing at the empty conference room


    through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The meeting was obviously a ruse by Jesper and Jessica to get me


    to leave thepany.


    The Dawsons were a family of actors, and Jessica was the star of the show.


    They apanied me to the elevator, all smiles. I waved at them, and as the doors closed, my smile


    faded.


    When the elevator reached the ground floor, ra ran over to see me out. She watched as I got into


    my car.


    As soon as I was in the car, anger surged through me and tears welled up in my eyes.


    Everything I worked for was taken away by these wolves in sheep''s clothing.


    I would not let this stand.


    I drove to a secluded spot, leaned over the steering wheel, and cried my heart out.


    After calming down, I pulled out my phone and dialed Addrion''s number from my new phone to avoid


    leaving a trace. But I was told that the number didn''t exist.


    I sat there stunned, gripping my phone. I dialed the number again, but I got the same response.


    How could it be disconnected?This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53


    At that moment, I felt utterly helpless. I couldn''t let things continue this way, I had to find Addrion to


    uncover the truth. I refused to believe he was someone who would cheat.


    Just as I was pondering, my old cellphone rang. ncing at the screen, I saw it was Jan calling.


    Apparently, Jesper had already tipped him off.


    Iposed myself and cleared my throat before answering, "Hey, darling!"


    "Honey, where are you? Why are you out? Can you handle it?" His voice wasced with concern,


    gentle and soft.


    "I was bored at home so I decided to catch some fresh air. I didn''t have anywhere in particr to go, so


    I went to the office, but you weren''t there!" I tried to sound casual, "Jesper said you were at the Harbor,


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    so I thought I''de find you."


    "I''m already on my way back. Where are you?" he asked, "Or should Ie to you?"


    "I''m on my way," I said truthfully, trying to avoid him tracking my car, "If you''re busy, I''ll head home. I''ve


    been out for a while and I''m feeling a bit tired."


    "Alright, just drive carefully. I''ll be home soon too," he replied in a way that suggested he was worried I


    might stay out toote.


    "Okay, I''ll go straight home then."


    After hanging up, I turned on my Bluetooth and dialed Logan while driving, asking him to help locate


    Addrion.


    As soon as I got home, Jan arrived, carrying a bag of my favorite chestnuts.


    "You''re home early. I just got here!" I said, sinking into the sofa, "I thought you said you''d be a while."


    "I was going to go to the hospital but the person I needed to see wasn''t there, so I came straight


    home." He studied my face, "You''re getting better each day, you can even drive now!"


    "What nonsense. Just a short drive and my legs are jelly. If I don''t start exercising soon, I''ll be a wreck.


    Doctors these days are so ipetent, they can''t find out what''s wrong with me." Iined,


    pointing at the bag of chestnuts, "I want some!"


    Jan obediently sat next to me, opened the bag, and started peeling some chestnuts. I frowned at


    him, "Did you wash your hands?"


    He grinned, quickly got up to wash his hands, then returned to peel more chestnuts.


    As I was munching on the chestnuts, his phone rang. He nced at the screen and stood up, moving


    away from me before answering. He didn''t speak, only hummed a few times in acknowledgment before


    hanging up.


    He then turned to me and smiled, "Honey, I have to go out again. Once I finalize everything, I''ll be at


    peace."


    I rolled my eyes, "You can''t even sit still for a second, can you?"


    Although I knew there was something fishy about that call.


    He kissed my forehead, "What can I do? Ignore a business opportunity?"


    "Will you be home for lunch?" I asked, "I was hoping we could eat out."


    "Well, considering the time, I''m sure I''ll be inviting them out for lunch," Jan had a ready excuse.


    Does he think I''m oblivious? Would he normally take a business call away from me?


    I waved him off, "Fine, go ahead. Just remember to repay the money you owe me."


    He joked, "Seems like you''re obsessed with money, always talking about it."


    He grabbed his bag, tossing it over his shoulder, saying "I''m off!" and he left.


    I muttered under my breath, "The damn Dawson family is the one obsessed with money, their greed is


    so obvious. I''m not dead yet, and they''re already trying to get a piece of the pie. The Wilburn family''s


    money isn''t that easy to take."


    I got up and told Zora, who was about to prepare lunch, "I''m going to take a nap, don''t wake me up for


    lunch."


    That afternoon, I sorted through all the reports in Jan''sputer, trying to find useful information. I


    also contacted some old ssmates, hoping they could help me locate Addrion.


    But no one had any leads. Addrion seemed to have vanished into thin air, even Logan had no news


    about him.

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54


    Just when I was at my wit''s end, Catherine sent me a video.


    In the video, Jan was at the entrance of the Silver Tycoon Mall, helping a woman who was burdened


    with packages. Jan swiftly moved forward to relieve her of her burdens, the woman ducked into the


    car. The distance was too far and the action too fast, I couldn''t make out the woman''s face.


    I watched the video twice and still couldn''t identify her.


    However, Jan was wearing the same clothes he had on when he left the house. This was clearly a


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    recent video. I immediately called Catherine. "When did you see them?"


    "Noon!"


    It seems this was the real reason he hurriedly left after receiving a phone call at noon.


    "Jan picked up that woman and they went straight to Avalon Funtime Resort. I followed them all the


    way, saw them walk in together. I waited outside, but they never came out. Damn, I''ve been staking out


    here. I need to see that woman''s face, something about her seemed familiar."


    "You didn''t see her face when they went in?"


    "I didn''t dare to get too close. By the time I caught up, all I could see was her back!" Catherine


    eximed angrily, "That son of a gun is a real yer, Allie, I feel so sorry for you!"


    I chuckled sarcastically, "I''m numb to it all. I always thought I was lucky to have met a good man like


    Jan. Even if all the men in the world were unfaithful, Jan wouldn''t be. But I was wrong. My naivety


    and gullibility had me chasing after him, only to be kicked to the curb. His ulterior motives have been


    brewing for a long time."


    "What do you mean?" Catherine picked up on the hint in my words.


    I choked back tears, it took me a while to regain myposure and continue speaking to Catherine,


    "Catherine, I fear I no longer own thepany!"


    "What?" Catherine shouted in disbelief, "What do you mean you no longer own it?"


    I told her about what had happened at thepany in the morning.


    Catherine was furious, "What the hell do you n to do? You can''t just let the Dawsons get away with


    this!"


    I snorted coldly, after talking with Catherine, my thoughts became clearer. I spoke in a chilling tone, "Of


    course not, they can''t get thepany. It belongs to the Wilburns, and the Dawsons won''t get a penny.


    I''ll make them pay back every cent they''ve taken."


    "That''s the spirit, I''m with you!"


    "Thanks, I really need your support."


    "Through thick and thin!" Catherine''s determination was unwavering, "Just tell me what to do!"


    "Let them fight amongst themselves!" I dered decisively, "Since they''re so greedy, let them tear each


    other apart. I know the Dawsons, they may appear united, but they''re all self-centered."


    Upon hearing this, Catherine couldn''t wait, "So, what''s our next move?"


    I thought for a moment, "First things first, I need you to do two things for me. First, investigate their


    close associates. Then, find me a trustworthy, experiencedwyer!"


    "Okay!"


    "Oh... Did you take care of that thing I asked you to do for Jan?" I asked Catherine.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve already set it in motion. It won''t be long before Jan falls into our trap! I''ve prepared


    some top-notch girls for him, it''s a perfect match for this yboy." Catherine chuckled maliciously, "But


    remember, don''t let Jan sleep with you anymore!"


    "Don''t worry! At this point, the mere sight of him makes me sick. In my eyes, he''s nothing more than a


    pile of crap!"


    "What about the other two at your house? What do you n to do with them?" Catherine asked


    curiously.


    I smirked confidently, "Just wait and see! The show''s about to begin!"


    Just as we were about to hang up, Catherine eximed in surprise, "... She''sing out, oh my god,


    it''s her!"

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55


    My nerves tensed instantly, and I quickly demanded, "Are you saying the woman with Jan?"


    "Hold on¡­" Catherine said, then the call ended abruptly.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Holding the phone with a puzzled expression, I spected about the situation Catherine might be


    facing on the other side.


    Not long after, she sent me several pictures.


    I flipped through them eagerly, and upon seeing them, my throat tightened. The face on the screen was


    all too familiar¡ªit was Marissa Collin.


    I had hired Marissa in mypany''s third year. To be exact, she was my junior in college and joined


    mypany right after graduation.


    She was beautiful and clever, but most notably, she had a silver tongue. The first time she met me, she


    said, "Ms. Wilburn, it''s such an honor to finally meet you! You''re my idol! You started your own


    You''re practically a legend at our school. I''m here to learn from you and I hope you can provide me with


    this tform to grow alongside you and yourpany!"


    I wasn''t particrly fond of her ttery, but she was indeed the best among those who applied, so she


    stayed.


    She quickly worked her way up from sales to be my secretary, in only eight months.


    In the pictures, Marissa looked more mature and attractive than she did seven years ago, her figure


    even more enticing, exactly Jan''s type.


    In the photo, Jan was affectionately taking care of Marissa, their actions intimate, his eyes full of


    love. It was clear that Jan''s attitude towards Marissa was different from others, his charming eyes


    showing deep affection.


    Marissa was naturally holding onto his arm, looking like a true leadingdy.


    My hand, holding the photos, began to shake involuntarily, my teeth clenching involuntarily.


    I had thought that she was a trustworthy right-hand woman. Before leaving thepany, I had


    intended to let her assist Jan. It turned out she was indeed a good secretary, even assisting Jan


    in his bed.


    Looking at how they were so intimate, I felt like a total fool.


    My eyes were fixed on her left ring finger, where she was wearing a diamond ring that I knew all too


    well.


    That ring was a limited edition that Jan had bought for me on our fifth wedding anniversary. Because


    our son Probert was still small at that time, I always stayed at home, so I left the ring at home, never


    expecting to see it again.


    Upon seeing Jan''s face in the photo, I felt an unfamiliar disgust. A hot tear slid down my cheek, and


    I quickly sniffed.


    Catherine''s call came in again, "Did you see it? You have to stay alert! Jan is a beast. I''m afraid he''s


    been through every woman in yourpany.


    "When you were working day and night, even while pregnant, to build your empire, he turned it into his


    yground. You must fight back! Don''t think too much about it, and don''t dwell on it. He''s not worth it!


    I''m following them now, trying to find out where they''re hiding."


    "Okay, be careful!" I croaked.


    "I''ve already asked Logan to investigate when they started hooking up!" Catherineforted me. "Allie,


    stay strong. I believe in you. Don''t back down!"


    "I won''t!"


    I hung up the phone and buried my face in the pillow, sobbing silently. My heart ached unbearably. It


    hurt too much!


    It was a naked betrayal!


    Marissa''s face kept appearing in my mind. I btedly realized something. No wonder Jan had been


    able to clean up thepany so thoroughly, topletely rece the old staff. With Marissa''s


    ''assistance'', everything must have been a breeze for him.


    I bolted upright in bed, clenching my fists tightly. My anger was pent up with nowhere to vent. I grabbed


    the nket, bit down on it, and, clutching the edge with both hands, ripped it apart.


    This kind of betrayal was like a thousand cuts to me.


    I screamed in my heart, I swore I would avenge this betrayal.

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56


    At dinner time, Jan was still out and about. I collected myself and headed downstairs to eat, casually


    chatting with ra about the events at the office.


    She''d been there for a few days now, getting acquainted with the different departments and their


    respective heads.


    ra was all sweet smiles and sincere sharing, holding nothing back about the office politics. Her


    insights reinforced my suspicion that my true allies at the office were dwindling.


    Suddenly, I heard a beep from Zora''s phone. She picked it up, nced at the screen, and her


    expression instantly soured. After that, she was lost in her thoughts, forgetting to feed little Carl his


    dinner.


    I reached out and took Carl''s bowl, casually asking her, "Zora, are you feeling alright?"


    She looked up at me, a forced smile on her face after a moment''s pause. "Actually, I''m feeling a bit off."


    She reached out to take the bowl back, "I''ll feed him."


    "Nah, I''ve got it. You rest if you''re not feeling well."


    ra chimed in immediately. "Zora, you should rest. I can clear up here."


    Zora shot her a look, irritation written all over her face. "I''m fine. Eat your food."


    raughed awkwardly, looking at me with an expression of confusion and guilt, like she''d done


    something wrong.


    I smirked inwardly. This little girl was putting on quite the show.


    "No need to be so formal, ra. You''re part of this household now, so rx." My words were meant to


    reassure, but they were also an invitation.


    From then on, I began to overly rely on ra, entrusting Carl''s entertainment to her. To my surprise,


    Carl took to ra instantly, following her around the house, filling it withughter.


    Taking advantage of Zora''s distraction, I slipped her some ''sleeping aid'' in her drink. Soon, she


    excused herself, citing difort, and retired to bed.


    After tucking Carl in at eight, I was utterly exhausted.


    Before retiring to my room, I made a point to ra, "Hey ra, could you keep an ear out for me


    downstairs? Look after Jan when he gets back from his business dinner - he usuallyes home


    "Of course, Madame." ra responded dutifully. "You should rest."


    "Thanks, ra. There are snacks in the fridge if you get hungry," I told her before heading upstairs.


    When Jan returned, it was almost midnight. As soon as I heard his car pulling in, I quickly switched


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    on the surveince feed. Jan was already inside, and ra emerged from the guest room.


    The sight of her brought a smile to my face. The girl really knew what she was doing.


    In the feed, I watched as Jan froze when he saw ra. His gaze was glued to her.


    ra was dressed in a soft, off-shoulder nightgown that fell to her knees, revealing nothing


    inappropriate but hinting at everything. The lightweight fabric perfectly entuated her figure,


    especially her curves which were just visible.


    Jan was a known womanizer, and his predatory instincts were obviously on high alert.


    Seemingly aware of his gaze, ra quickly crossed her arms over her chest. It was an attempt to cover


    herself, but it only served to draw more attention to her curves.


    She was indeed a master at this game, subtly stoking the mes without seeming to try.


    "Sir, you''re back," she said in a whispery voice that was pure seduction, even I felt attracted.


    Jan arched an eyebrow, "Why¡­ are you the only one here?"


    What a loaded question indeed!

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57


    Hearing his question, I can''t help but mutter, "What a piece of trash."


    His words were clearly meaningful. He''de back in the middle of the night, when everyone was


    asleep. Even when I''d been half-asleep before, he''d quietly slipped into Zora''s room aftering home


    "Yes! Everyone is asleep. My sister has a bit of a cold, and Madame had to put Carl to bed. She was


    exhausted and went to sleep early. She told me to wait for you before going to bed." ra said softly,


    her voice as sweet as maple syrup.


    The next moment, she ran over, bent down to pick a pair of slippers from the rack, and ced them at


    Jan''s feet. His eyes were fixed on her, greedy and lustful. He might appear to have good intentions


    on the surface, but I seemed to see the salivation behind his aloof face.


    He changed into the slippers leisurely, handing his bag to ra who took it with a flirtatious smile.


    As Jan took a step forward, he intentionally stumbled. ra gasped and rushed to his aid.


    Perfect! He got her in his arms!


    Without a doubt, I knew what was going to happen next. Jan, with his muscr arms, pulled her into


    his embrace. His desires were pretty evident.


    ra seemed to resist at first, but soon she gave in.


    I knew ra wouldn''t let me down.


    And she didn''t disappoint. Her actions were exactly what I had foreseen, even better than I expected.


    After reading the information Logan provided, I knew everything about ra. She was a party animal.


    Raised in such a family, once out of that broken home, their greed swelled fast.


    Zora only gave her 300 bucks, how could it satisfy her burgeoning vanity?


    So I knew, those 300 bucks to ra, were an insult. That''s why she not only didn''t feel grateful, she


    even deepened her resentment towards Zora.


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Especially seeing Zora living in ourfortable environment made her even more resentful. That was


    the reason behind their verbal fight when she first came here.


    That fight assured me that ra wouldn''t let me down once I gave her the opportunity.


    She was like a beast, ready to pounce at any moment. And I had given her such a great opportunity.


    The moment she stepped into this house, I suspected that she had ulterior motives towards Jan.


    That night, Jan didn''t return to his room.


    I stayed awake until dawn, not because I was angry at Jan''s unquenchable lust. His disgusting


    behavior was familiar to me from the photos on hisputer. I was already disappointed and disgusted


    with him, all that was left was hatred.


    Moreover, everything he did to me, was unforgivable.


    I was contemting my next move to break free from this deadlock. Should I expose this incident to


    Zora and let the drama unfold?


    However, sometimes things can catch you off guard.


    While I was strategizing, Zora had already made her move.

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58


    As dawn was just breaking, I was finally drifting off to sleep when I was rudely awakened by a burst of


    angry shouting.


    I was certain that it was some hubaloo from downstairs. I sat up in bed, ready to investigate, but then


    thought better of it and decided to let the drama unfold on its own.


    The noise from downstairs seemed to have been suppressed and wasn''t escting as I had expected.


    Reconsidering my impulse, I kicked off my slippers, crawled back into bed, and pulled the covers over


    me. As if nothing had happened, I closed my eyes, reassuring myself that it was bedtime.


    After all, the climax oftenester in the show. If I were to get involved now, it would only result in


    awkwardness for me.


    After a short nap, I woke up at my usual time and leisurely headed downstairs after freshening up.


    In the living room, Jan was lounging on the couch, engrossed in his phone.


    Surprisingly, ra was in the kitchen, preparing breakfast.


    "Where''s Zora?" I asked nonchntly, "Why are you cooking?"


    "She''s upstairs with Carl!" ra responded while busily flipping eggs, "Madam, would you prefer milk


    or coffee?"


    I replied, unruffled, "I''d rather get it myself."


    I walked into the kitchen and seeing the ingredients on the counter, I couldn''t help but feel a tad


    annoyed. It seemed like a waste of good food.


    Pretending not to notice, I poured myself a ss of warm water and sauntered out of the kitchen.


    Jan looked up at me, unusually gentle, "Why are you up so early?"


    "Are you kidding? You''re the one who''s up early. What time did you get backst night? I didn''t hear a


    thing!" I sat next to him, a questioning look on my face, "Or did you note back at all?"


    "I got back verytest night. You were fast asleep. I didn''t dare disturb you!" He lied without batting


    an eye, "I was supposed to go to Amethyst Acres early in the morning but rescheduled. I didn''t end up


    going."


    "How did your meeting go yesterday?" I asked, "Did it take all afternoon?"


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "No, I returned to the office in the afternoon! The business is still uncertain. Thepetition is fierce.


    They don''t seem to have any bottom line!" He looked helpless, giving nothing away.


    I was curious about the agreement the three of them had reached, which led to this sudden calm.


    At breakfast, the yucky food on the table made me doubt my life choices. I nced at ra, then


    feigned surprise, "What happened to your face?"


    ra face now sported a dark red handprint. It looked sore, indicating a rather intense fight.


    She instinctively covered her face, forcing a grin, "I was fighting off mosquitoesst night. I pped


    myself."


    "You... pped yourself?" I yed along, "You sure don''t hold back!"


    I then nced at Jan, who was engrossed in his scrambled eggs. He seemed genuinely hungry. No


    wonder, he must''ve expended a lot of energyst night.


    "My skin gets red easily and marks show up at the slightest touch." ra added, as if talking to herself.


    "Well, you should be more careful next time. It looks like someone hit you." I quipped.


    Just then, Zora came downstairs with Carl, put him in his highchair, and returned to the kitchen to get


    him some milk and a small piece of cake. She did all this without uttering a word, her expression cold.


    As she settled down to feed Carl, I casually asked, "Did you oversleep, Zora?"


    Zora seemed taken aback. She looked at me, avoiding my gaze, "I think I might be catching a cold so I


    felt a bit lethargic."


    I turned to Jan, "Could you drop Carl off today? Zora might have a cold, it would be better if she


    takes some rest. ra, could you apany him? It''ll be on your way to work."


    ra was quick to nod in agreement. But before she could respond, Zora retorted, "Madam, there''s no


    need. I can manage."


    I looked at the sulking Zora, "It''s not about whether you can manage or not, I''m concerned that Carl


    might catch your cold."


    "From now on, I''ll take care of it. You don''t have to worry, Zora. It''s on my way, isn''t it, Madam?" ra


    turned to Zora, a defiant smile on her face.

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59


    Hearing ra''s words, it was clear as day to me that she was provoking Zora. Since they had already


    decided to butt heads, I was naturally going to back ra up - this girl was a real warrior.


    "Alright! It''s settled then. I''ll rely on you to pick up and drop off Carl every day. Just give me a heads up


    in case of any special circumstances!" I said, looking at Jan with satisfaction. "This way, Zora won''t


    need to go out of her way. I see that Carl seems quite attached to ra, and honestly, I wouldn''t trust


    anyone else with this. Thank God ra''s here!"


    Jan looked at me with an indulgent smile, "Your wish is mymand! I''m all in!"


    Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Zora turning angry, her spoon clenched so tightly in her hand.


    "Zora, you''ve been working hardtely. Take some time off!" I said nonchntly.


    After dinner, ra and Carl happily followed Jan to the car and drove away.


    Watching the car drive off, a smile yed on my lips. I wanted Zora to see exactly how her sister was


    recing her.


    Since they''d all offered themselves up on a silver tter, I wasn''t going to let a single one of them off


    the hook.


    I turned back into the living room, where Zora emerged, pretending to tidy up the coffee table, but


    struggling to say something.


    I pretended not to notice her anxiety, busying myself with my phone instead.


    In my mind, I was nning my next move. The war at home had already started, and it was high time


    for the Dawson family to get their hands dirty.


    As for Marissa?


    No rush. Let her bask in her vanity a little longer. I needed to build her up before she could truly


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    understand what it meant to fall.


    But first, I needed to find out when she hooked up with Jan. I intended to dig up all the dirt and make


    a big show of it.


    It seemed that Zora had finally reached her breaking point. She clenched her jaw and walked up to me,


    saying, "Madam, there''s no need to go out of your way for my sister."


    I feigned surprise and probed, "What do you mean? You''re not happy about me helping her?"


    "I know my sister better than anyone. She... she''s actually quite maniptive, always rebellious. She''s


    not what you think she is," Zora said, her words carefully chosen.


    "Oh?" I said, feigning interest and sitting up on the couch. "And what is she really like? Do tell."


    Zora struggled with her expression as I watched her attentively, waiting for her to answer.


    "In any case... don''t spoil her too much. She''ll take advantage of it. I''ll do my best to make her leave


    soon. I''ll find her a ce to stay in the next few days."


    "Alright, then," I nodded. "I''m only helping her because she''s your sister. But if you say so, you handle


    it. But just a reminder, if she''s out from under your watchful eye, won''t she be even more


    maniptive?"


    I dropped the hint deliberately.


    Sure enough, Zora''s expression turned frustrated. She was at the end of her rope. "We can''t just let her


    create chaos here!"


    "Really? She seems like a good girl to me!" Iughed.


    Zora huffed, then looked at me. "Then I... might have to go out for a while. For lunch..."


    I quickly waved her off, "Go ahead, take care of your business. I can manage lunch on my own."


    "Don''t worry, I won''t dy dinner!" Zora said with determination. It seemed that ra had really pushed


    her buttons.


    But I thought, looking for a ce to live? Unlikely.


    Right now, Zora was like a turtle stuck in a pot, stuck between a rock and a hard ce, with trouble


    brewing both at home and outside.


    When she saw that message on her phone during dinnerst night, she was already on edge.


    Of course, I knew why. It was the preventative measure I took, having Catherine send her a picture of


    Jan and Marissa looking intimate from an unknown number.


    She certainly didn''t expect that before she could even react, there was already trouble brewing at


    home. Caught between a rock and a hard ce, she might not be able to keep up with her clever


    tactics.


    That was exactly the effect I was aiming for. There needed to be some chaos to create an entertaining


    show.


    If Zora could actually handle Marissa, I''d have to take a second look at her.


    I was suddenly curious about what Zora was going to do next.


    So, after she left the house, I got in my car and followed her at a distance.

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60


    Sure enough, as I suspected, Zora wasn''t out house hunting as she had imed. She was meeting a


    man, a guy in his thirties, broad-shouldered and muscr. They seemed to know each other pretty well


    and walked into a caf¨¦ together.


    Coincidentally, I was familiar with that caf¨¦. It had a backyard parking lot and a backdoor entrance. I


    parked my car in the lot and briskly entered the shop. The ce was set up with private booths, and


    the main hall was usually empty. People came here to discuss business, so they preferred the privacy


    of the booths.


    I headed straight upstairs where I had spotted them entering a booth. For convenience of


    eavesdropping, I sat down on a side adjacent to them and ordered a cup of coffee.


    Because the booths were notpletely enclosed at the top, the sound instion was not so great. I


    could clearly hear the man''s deep voiceing from the neighboring booth.


    "What do you want, Zora?"


    "I need your help!" Zora''s voice was clear and crisp, "You must help me find out about something."


    The man chuckled, "I knew it! You wouldn''t call me unless you needed something."


    "Can you not talk like that? You are the only one I trust!" Zora''s voice was full of resentment, "Do you


    think this is easy for me?"


    "Whether it''s easy or not, I don''t know. But when you were living the high life, I was nothing to you. You


    said you trust me? Ha! I was just a puppet, at your beck and call!" The man''s voice was bitter, "I must


    have owed you in a past life!"


    "Enough!" Zora snapped back, "There''s no telling who owes who. When you were spending my money,


    you didn''tin this much."


    I was taken aback. Zora had the audacity to have another man, all while spending Jan''s money. She


    sure knew how to y the game.


    "Cut the crap, Zora. Quit keep bringing up that little money you''ve given me. Out with it, what do you


    want? Who do you want me to look into?" The man seemed to have relented, asking her to get to the


    point.


    There was a pause before Zora spoke again, "This woman. I need you to find out who she is."


    I realized that Zora must be talking about Marissa.


    "Ha! Who else could it be? It must be that dog''s mistress. I knew it, he''s no saint. If he cany his


    hands on you, his own maid, he''d definitely not sit idle."


    The man spat, a tone of disdain in his voice, "In my opinion, it''s a waste of time to investigate her. You


    should just steal his money, that''s the most practical thing to do! Next time he uses your card to transfer


    money, just keep it. We can run away together. He''s obviously loaded, what can he do to us?"


    I was shocked. Turns out Jan had been using Zora tounder his money, no wonder she was so


    loyal to him.


    "Don''t talk nonsense. Something must have gone wrong for him to treat me this way. After all, I have


    given him¡­" Zora choked up, "You''re just short-sighted, only seeing what''s in front of you!"


    "Bullshit, you think Jan will actually marry you? Even a fool can see that he''s just using you!" The


    man''s words were harsh, but they were the truth.


    However, the truth sometimes hurts.


    Zora angrily retorted, "Shut up! If you can''t help me, I''ll ask someone else for help!"Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Damn it, Zora! Do you think you can y with me? I''ve been protecting you since school, even


    followed you to Goldenvale Town. You think I''m your tool, don''t you?" The man was losing his temper


    now, "Zora, don''t push your luck. I, Maddox, am a man of dignity. I''ve let you off the hook all this while


    because of our past. But don''t forget how you got to Goldenvale Town!"


    As soon as he said this, Zora immediately shushed him and in a hushed voice said, "Keep your voice


    down, the walls have ears!"

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61


    "Do you ever get scared? Did you fear when you were ying dirty?" The man named Maddox


    sounded genuinely angry, "Damn! Have you forgotten if I hadn''t reminded you? You''ve been living the


    high life, while I''ve been ducking and diving. Did you ever care about me?"


    My heart pounded rapidly. Clearly, Zora was not as simple as she seemed. The ''dirty y'' the man


    mentioned surely had substance. But why wasn''t it mentioned in the information Logan had gathered?


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    When Catherine had first given me information about Zora, she only mentioned Zora''s past of seducing


    her past employers. But the ''dirty y'' this man was talking about definitely involved more. The amount


    of information was overwhelming, and somewhat frightening.


    "Maddox, you''d better keep your mouth shut tight!" Zora warned Maddox in a low voice, "Or none of us


    will survive!"


    This confirmed my suspicion that this was no small matter.


    After a long silence, Zora''s gentle voice came again, " Maddox, I remember everything you''ve done for


    me. I won''t let you down! But first, I need to be alright, so that you can be alright too, right? Your efforts


    won''t be in vain!"


    It seemed Zora was trying a soft approach now.


    "Even if you find out about that woman, what can you do? Zora, I''m warning you, this man is no good.


    You''re too involved to see clearly!" Maddox''s tone softened significantly, almost pleading.


    "Would I be so persistent if I wasn''t sure?" Zora retorted, "This time, I won''t easily give up. He has to


    answer to me!"


    "Are you sure?"


    "Of course. As long as he makes up his mind, I''ve won!" Zora said fiercely, "Then even if I let go, he''ll


    have to pay me a satisfying price. I won''t waste my efforts, you can rest assured!"


    "You''re saying... you''ve got something on him?" Maddox asked quietly, his voice filled with excitement.


    "More than just something!" Zora responded dismissively.


    "Tell me, I want to know if it''ll work," Maddox asked yfully.


    Zora snorted coldly, "Knowing too much won''t do you any good. Just focus on finding out more about


    this woman. I won''t tolerate any hups in my n!"


    "Well... at least give me some cash. I''m running short," Maddoxughed awkwardly.


    "Just get it done, in detail!" Zora instructed impatiently.


    Soon, a notification sound came from the other end of the line, followed by Maddox''sint, "2


    grand is nothing! You know how much it costs to get things done these days. You think I can dig up her


    past just with a photo? I''m not some wizard. I need a professional!"


    "Just do it, and I''ll give you another 3 grand when you''re done!" Zora said gruffly.


    "Zora, you''re not nning another move, are you?" Maddox''s voice was filled with concern, "Don''t


    involve me this time!"


    "I have my ways!" Zora sounded confident, "You won''t find anything. Besides, it was his idea. Once it


    works, he can''t deny it."


    Her hint made me think of what she still had in her hands.


    "Alright! I''ll do my best!" After saying this, Maddox chuckled, "Let''s change the location, shall we? It''s


    been too long since we met, and what''s the point of sitting here?"


    "I have other things to do!" Zora clearly tried to dodge.


    "Oh, please. What could be more urgent than me? You can spare a day. Come on, I''ve been hung out


    to dry for too long. You owe me some care!"


    I understood perfectly what he meant by ''care''. I cursed under my breath. They were shameless.


    There was a rustling sound from the other end, and then Zora''s annoyed voice, "Can''t you wait until


    we''re somewhere private? Let''s go!"


    "We should find a ce. If you want a favor, you should be more sincere, right?" Maddox insisted,


    sounding impatient.


    "Fine, let''s go!" Zora sounded petnt.


    "That''s more like it! If he''s fooling around with other women, you shouldn''t just sit idle." Maddox


    away. After some contemtion, I sent a message to Logan.


    If someone was nning a move, I''d be happy to reap the benefits. Let Zora get what she wants as


    soon as possible!

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62


    Before I had the chance to leave, Catherine rang me up, inquiring about my whereabouts. I sent her my


    location, and she asked me to wait there.


    In no time, Catherine bustled in, with Logan trailing behind her.


    Being the cautious type, Logan swept the room to ensure no one was eavesdropping before he settled


    in. He greeted me with a familiar nod and, without missing a beat, put a thick folder onto the table


    before me.


    He arched an eyebrow at me, indicating the folder, "Here you go. Everything you asked for."


    I reached for the folder eagerly, spilling a pile of documents onto the table.


    Upon seeing the wealth of information, I eximed, "This is incredibly efficient."


    Logan shrugged, a smirk of pride ying on his lips.


    The top document was about Jerome Dawson. Reading it sent chills down my spine. I had suspected


    Jerome was no good, but I hadn''t expected him to be this cruel and cunning.


    Logan pointed at the document in my hand, "That drug they used on you, it''s all Jerome. What we''ve


    found out so far is just the tip of the iceberg. We can dig deeper, but it''ll take time. What I have here is


    just what concerns you."


    "The Dawsons are all in it together, Allie. If they''re targeting you, no one in that family is innocent,"


    Catherine chimed in, "Thepany''s change, as you predicted, didn''t happen overnight."


    I turned to Logan, "Any news on Addrion?"


    Logan shook his head, his expression grave, "None. It''s like he vanished into thin air."


    His words sent a chill down my spine.


    "Logan, you have to find him," I implored, my voice wavering slightly. The very thought of Addrion


    disappearing scared me.


    "He was my senior at college. He was with me through thick and thin, every piece of equipment we got,


    he was the one who made it happen. There would be no Medsafe Liyah Inc. without him. Sure, the


    funding came from the Wilburns, but the connections were all Addrion''s. We have to find him!"


    Logan was quiet for a moment, "Alright, I''ll try my best. But I suspect... Jerome might have something


    to do with this."


    That was thest thing I wanted to hear.


    "Once we find him, everything that''s been happening in thepany will be clear," I said, forcing a


    smile and trying to control my emotions.


    "The changes in thepany have a lot to do with Marissa," Logan continued, setting down his coffee


    cup and pulling out another document from the pile, "This is her timeline with Jan."


    I quickly scanned the document.


    It showed that Marissa, as Jan''s secretary, was his right-hand woman after he took over Medsafe


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Liyah Inc. She helped Jan smooth over rtions with existing clients, both distributors and suppliers.


    It was clear that Jan easily swayed Marissa, who subsequently became his chief assistant. She


    helped Jan execute major changes in thepany, gradually pushing out my trusted employees.


    Of course, Jerome yed a big part in this too. They truly were birds of a feather.


    "Marissa was a key figure in Jan''s takeover and his most valuable asset. That''s why Jan values


    her so much. For a while, Marissa held significant power, some employees were ousted without Jan


    lifting a finger. Later¡­"


    Logan hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Marissa got pregnant, and Jan protected her, she


    became more of a behind-the-scenes yer¡­"


    "Pregnant!" I gasped, staring at Logan in shock.

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    Chapter 63


    Logan pulled out a photo from the pile of documents, "This is her and Jan''s kid! Two years younger


    than your little Probert, currently attending Blossom Valley Elementary School. Marissa''s already a full-


    fledged housewife!"


    "Blossom Valley Elementary School?" I gasped.


    "Yes, the same school as Probert!" Logan affirmed, nodding. "Her kid is a grade below Probert!"


    A bitter taste filled my mouth, my heart pounding as if it wanted to shatter from the pain.


    "Absolutely outrageous!" Catherine couldn''t hold back her curse, "That bitch."


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    "She''s always been Jan''s behind-the-scenes strategist, his trusted aide." Logan slumped on the


    couch, "She''s the one among Jan''s many women that satisfies him the most!"


    "Of course, Marissa is a key contributor to Jan''s sess!" Logan continued, "Marissa''s ruthless, and


    she''s the greatest beneficiary. Once you''re gone, she''ll definitely take your ce."


    Logan was blunt, not mincing his words. I clenched the photo tighter, crumpling it, the picture distorting.


    I looked up at Logan, saying meaningfully, "Then hand this information over to Zora, let her learn! The


    enemy of my enemy is my weapon!"


    Logan got the message, whistling in understanding.


    After a while, he turned to me, "Oh, right! Marissa is also pretty close with Jerome."


    I was taken aback, quickly asked, "How close?"


    "When they were dealing with the old heads of thepany, Jerome and Jan became quite close,


    and of course, Marissa was a part of it. Naturally, they had a lot of interactions."


    "That bastard!" I cursed, "Keep an eye on them, see if they can be of use! I have to dismantle this


    Dawson team!"


    "OK!" Logan gave me a thumbs up.


    "Allie, you''re right. If Marissa and Jerome do have something going on, that''s our breakthrough. The


    Dawsons are nothing but beasts, a bunch of animals," Catherine raged.


    "Another potential breakthrough is Jessica, she''s incredibly selfish, greedy!" I told Logan, "I need an


    opportunity for her to show her greed. She''s now in charge of the finances, if we don''t get her hands


    dirty, it''d be a waste!"


    Logan chuckled, "Absolutely, that''s a great idea! I''ve checked, Jessica''s husband is no good either, he''s


    long held grudges against the Dawson family, so their marriage isn''t doing well. Once Jessica gets her


    hands on something, she won''t be able to stop."


    "That''s ideal, we should definitely set this trap!" Catherine agreed.


    I muttered, "I really want to go back to thepany!"


    Logan quickly responded, "Allie, it''s not the right time to return to thepany. It would only alert them!


    Plus, it''d be so awkward, you wouldn''t be able to do anything!"


    "But I want to keep an eye on their internal affairs." I said frustratedly, "They''re impregnable right now, I


    know nothing about what''s going on inside. The executives are all people nted by the Dawson


    family, like a firewall, I can''t do anything. The old employees left are insignificant, I can''t rely on them."


    "Why not nt someone inside?" He suggested.


    My eyes lit up instantly, "Yes, if I had someone in thepany, that would make things much easier."

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    Chapter 64


    With eager eyes, I looked at Logan, saying impatiently, "But I don''t have someone for this job."


    "Anyone close to you is out of the question, it has to be a fresh face. Think about it, they will surely do a


    thorough investigation before letting anyone get close to their inner circle. I''ll take care of this!" Logan


    willingly took on the responsibility.


    He continued, "We need someone on the inside, right next to Jesper. Because Jesper hasn''t achieved


    much; he''s desperate for a loyal confidant to secure his position. He must be dying for some help right


    now!"


    "Ah, just what I was thinking!" I said genuinely, "Thank you, Logan!"


    Honestly, I''m starting to really appreciate Logan. Aside from his sharp tongue, he''s genuinely helpful. I


    turned to Catherine and asked, "Catherine, have you found awyer for me?"


    "Of course!" Catherine exchanged a nce with Logan, "When do you need him?"


    "As soon as you''ve arranged it, I need some legal advice!" I simply stated.


    "On what?" Logan looked at me intently, probing further.


    I didn''t want to reveal it, but Logan''s persistent questioning made me blurt out, "Divorce!"


    Upon hearing my answer, Logan immediately said, "You can''t divorce him now. Do you really need a


    divorce that easily.


    Secondly, a divorce now would not benefit you in any way. You may end up losing everything, your


    wealth, house, even your children¡­" Logan tried to dissuade me, "Why would you want to leave with


    nothing?"


    "She won''t!" Catherine chimed in immediately, "Why should she? Did you know Medsafe Liyah Inc. was


    practically built from the ground up by the Wilburn family? It''s almost like the Wilburns moved their


    entire enterprise from Silverdale City to Goldenvale Town. I know that Galen invested all his money into


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Goldenvale. Now that it''s in Jan''s hands, he''s reaping all the benefits. But what about the Wilburns?"


    I felt a mist in my eyes, "It''s all because of my ipetence. I was blind and foolish!"


    "No kidding, you were really stupid when it came to Jan." Logan said bluntly, "But¡­you''re not


    hopeless!"


    His words made meugh in disbelief, "Are you insulting me orplimenting me?"


    He alsoughed, "A bit of both! As for thewyer, I can¡­"


    "I''ll find one for you, someone you can trust and be satisfied with." Before Logan could finish his


    sentence, Catherine interrupted him.


    I still felt a little worried and stressed again, "They must be reliable. As you know, the Dawson family is


    vicious. I''m not trying to get a divorce right now, I just want to know my odds. I need to be prepared.


    I''ve been too passive in some matters, I need to learn how to take control without breaking thew!"


    "Smart!" Logan gave me a thumbs up.


    I gave a wry smile, "I gotta strike back!"


    "You''re smart in everything else, but not so much when ites to a man!" Logan added, causing


    Catherine and me to burst intoughter.


    "Oh, right! I forgot to ask you something." I almost forgot about the man Zora had met, "Logan, did you


    find a man named Maddox when you were investigating Zora?"


    "Maddox? Yes, I believe he was Zora''s ssmate, always stood up for her. Anyone who bullied Zora,


    he would fight them for her. Back then, Zora was very isted, everyone called her a bastard. But after


    Zora left home, she stopped contacting him that much."


    "Look into this Maddox, I suspect he''s up to no good with Zora!" I then shared what had happened


    earlier with Logan and Catherine.


    Logan immediately became alert, looking at me, "I''ll look into it right away!"


    He then got up to leave, but stopped at the door and turned back to me, saying with a deep meaning,


    "I''ll find you awyer!"

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65


    I watched him walk away, puzzled, and turned to Catherine. "Is he really Ronan''s cousin?"


    "Absolutely!" Catherine nodded confidently. "Guaranteed!"


    I shook my head, "He''s a chatterbox, not at all like his cousin Ronan."


    "You''re saying he isn''t reliable?" retorted Catherine. " Don''t underestimate him ¨C he''s very reliable. And


    he''s quite a big deal in the industry. He isn''t just anyone''s for the taking. A real big shot that ordinary


    people can''t get a hold of!"


    "Really?"


    "Absolutely! His industry nickname is DragonLord!" Catherine said seriously, "You know what it means,


    right? He''s elusive, a real mystery just like a dragon. And in our field, you can''t do without him. He''s at


    the top, with countless minions below him, and there''s nothing he can''t figure out."


    Listening to Catherine, my eyes bulged out. I couldn''t help but think, how the hell am I going to pay


    him? I might escape this mess, but at the cost of my entire fortune.


    Catherine, as if seeing through my thoughts, chuckled. "Don''t worry, he''s offering friendly assistance to


    you."


    "Are you sure?" I looked at Catherine, joking, "From what you''re saying, I might go bankrupt!"


    Catherine burst intoughter, then teased me, "Don''t you have Ronan? What''s there to fear!"


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Give me a break! Better not mention him, he''s unreliable!" I quickly changed the subject, "I have a task


    for you."


    "Go ahead! At your service."


    "Arrange a meeting, I want to see Marissa!"


    Catherine looked surprised, put away her yful expression and looked at me, "Really? What for?"


    "I want to get in touch, she''s an old subordinate after all!" I said with an ulterior motive, "Don''t worry, I''ll


    definitely meet her in a friendly manner."


    "You''re ying clueless, aren''t you?" Catherine got my point instantly.


    I looked at the picture of Marissa''s family in my hand, and gave her a faint smile, "You know me the


    best! I need to get her on board! Test them, see how strong their bond really is!"


    "Alright! Wait for my call!" Catherine patted my shoulder.


    I looked over the information Logan had brought once more, then handed it back to Catherine, "Keep


    this with you! It''s not safe with me."


    Catherine nodded, and put the documents in her bag.


    We ate something there, chatted for a while, and then left together through the back door. I had to get


    home before Zora returned.


    When I got home, Zora hadn''t returned yet. Iy on the couch, my mind filled with the image of


    Marissa''s happy family, and my own three children. I felt a bit lost.


    That kind of hatred, like a wildfire, eventually burning everything to ashes.


    But reason told me, I had to take back everything that was mine, make Jan fall from grace and never


    recover, and make all of them pay.


    Compared to them, Zora was just a pawn, a scout that Jan left in this house to monitor me. She was


    just overestimating herself.


    Just as I was deep in thought, Zora returned carrying a bag of groceries, looking much more rxed


    than when she had left.


    Looks like she had a good afternoon with that man, her blocked drain had been cleared, and she was


    glowing.


    "Didn''t you go out for a walk, ma''am?" Zora asked, seeing me lying on the couch, half-asleep.


    "No, toozy to move!" I replied listlessly.


    After putting away her groceries, Zora asked, "What would you like for dinner, ma''am?"


    I thought for a moment, then sat up. "Anything. I need to go out."


    "Oh? Where are you going?" she asked.


    I nced at her, and she realized she had overstepped. She gave an awkwardugh.


    I went upstairs to change, then took my car keys and left. As I was leaving, I told Zora, "I''m going to


    see Probert. I won''t be back for dinner."

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66


    I hopped into my car, pulling away from my home and heading straight for Blossom Valley Elementary


    School, a prestigious institution housing both elementary and middle school students. My son, Probert,


    was a second-grader there.


    Due to my health issues, Probert had been staying with the Dawson family, cared for by his


    grandmother. It had been quite a while since I hadst seen him.


    Arriving at the school, it was still a bit early, so I parked a little further away and sat in the car, watching


    the school entrance.


    As the first-graders began to trickle out, I sat up straight, eyes glued to the school gate, scanning the


    parents picking up their children for any sign of Marissa.


    I hadn''t seen her for years. Looking back, I realized how naive I had been, underestimating human


    greed and cing too much trust in Jan and Marissa.


    In retrospect, my decision to ask for her help in managing Jan before I left was foolish to the


    extreme! Betrayal of this kind was more painful than physical torture. The fury it stoked could obliterate


    everything.


    Reluctantly, I had to admit, times have changed, and people along with it.


    Finally, I spotted her among the crowd. A canary yellow knit dress hugged her curvaceous figure, a


    brown scarf draped around her neck, and a matching Hermes bag hung from her arm.


    Her wavy hair was pulled back in a ponytail, entuating her refined elegance. Her face was not


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    particrly striking, but the yellow dress brought out a certain charm and allure.


    She looked every bit the wealthy housewife.


    Instinctively, I nced at my reflection in the rear-view mirror. My short, faded hair, and my dull skin.


    This was an improvement from when I had just woken up from my illness, when I looked more like a


    corpse than a living being.


    My hands clenched the steering wheel, a fire of rage burning brighter within me.


    What was even more unbearable was the plump woman standing next to Marissa. It was my mother-in-


    happily.


    The joy in Hazel''s eyes was intoxicating. They greeted other parents with warm smiles and friendly


    waves. It seemed that the Dawson family had already epted Marissa, perhaps even forgotten my


    existence.


    I remembered when their family of six or seven lived in a tiny apartment less than 500 square feet. If it


    hadn''t been for me, they might still be living in those conditions.


    It was the Wilburn family money that enabled them to move into a spacious 2000 square foot t, and


    yet theypletely disregarded the person who had pulled them out of poverty.


    At that moment, I wanted to get out of the car, give them a surprise, and remind Jan''s mother that I


    was still alive, and it was too early to make Marissa thedy of the house. But the next moment, I saw a


    chubby little boy running out of the school gate and directly into Marissa''s arms.


    I quickly pulled my hand back.


    Marissa gently cleaned the sweat on the boy''s forehead, then pointed to Hazel. The boy obediently


    leapt into Hazel''s arms, making herugh with joy.


    Their affection for each other was natural and heartfelt. It was a picture of familial bliss.


    However, Marissa didn''t leave immediately. She continued to stand at the gate with Hazel, asionally


    waving to passing parents.


    I was confused. Could they be waiting for Probert?


    The thought made my heart clench. They were being far too brazen!


    Suppressing the fury in my heart, I decided to stay put and see what would happen next.


    Sure enough, twenty minutester, I saw Probert slowly emerge from the school, his backpack slung


    over his shoulder, a disgruntled look on his face.


    My heart skipped a beat.

 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67


    I watched as my son, Probert, walked out in low spirits. He nced at his grandmother and Marissa,


    showing no surprise, indicating that he had grown quite ustomed to their presence.


    The first to approach him was Marissa''s son, a lively boy with a radiant smile and a fair, cherubic face,


    and just like Jan, he had striking hazel eyes. He ran up to Probert first, stood in front of him, and


    started talking, looking up at him.


    Probert, though in a downcast mood, managed a smile at Marissa, said something, and then turned to


    his grandmother.


    His grandmother, with a look of displeasure, said something and then grabbed Probert''s arm, her


    expression quite different from when she had been looking at Marissa and her son.


    Probert shrugged off his grandmother''s hand and walked away, then headed outside. Hazel said


    something to Marissa before she followed Probert.


    I wanted to start the car, but the number of parents picking up their kids made it impossible for me to


    get out.


    At this moment, Marissa, looking at Hazel''s retreating figure, raised an eyebrow in a disdainful smile,


    then waved goodbye to the other parents and left with her son.


    My gaze followed them until they disappeared. To my surprise, Marissa and her son got into a Porsche


    911.


    I had always liked this car, but I thought it was a bit extravagant, especially for a stay-at-home mom like


    me.


    Later, Jan argued that he needed to maintain a certain image for business, so he swapped out his


    BMW for a Bentley. He gave his old car to me, and my previous car became the family''s grocery getter,


    driven by Zora.


    I didn''t expect Jan to be so generous. The car he gave to his mistress was countless times better


    than that of his wife.


    I couldn''t help butugh at the irony, crying at the same time, grinding my teeth in frustration.


    Watching Marissa drive away with ease, I finally came back to reality, started the car, and headed


    straight to the Dawson residence.


    When I walked through the door, I saw Hazel sitting on the couch, berating Probert, who was standing


    obediently in front of her, head down, as if he hadmitted a grave mistake.


    Hazel stopped her tirade when she heard the door. She looked stunned when she saw me, her eyes


    wide with surprise and her mouth agape.


    When I walked up to her, she stammered, "You...what are you doing here?"


    "Mom!" I called out sweetly, bitter inside, "I came to see my Probert!"


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "You...weren''t you sick? You...you look..." She pointed at me, lost for words.


    I ignored her. The scene at the school gate earlier had made me see this family for what they truly


    were.


    "What happened, Probert?" I walked over, crouched down, and reached out to my son.


    He looked as stunned as his grandmother had been. He stiffened at my touch, clearly resistant, and


    tried to pull away.


    I softened my voice and said, "It''s Mommy, Probert!"


    The sight in front of me reminded me of the security footage I had seen. Zora had pointed at me,


    unconscious on the bed, and said something that scared them all away.


    "Probert, Mommy''s better now! I''ve missed you, sweetheart!" I softened my voice further, slowly


    tightening my hold on him, pulling him into my arms. I gently patted his back and felt his body gradually


    rx. But I noticed that his eyes were still darting nervously at his grandmother.


    At that moment, I had an idea. I needed to find a way to get my children away from the Dawson family.

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68


    I rose to my feet, clutching Probert''s small hand in mine, with no intention of letting go.


    At this moment, Hazel had regained herposure, staring at me with displeasure. "Aaliyah, you are


    still ill and yet you are gallivanting around, looking like a mess. You''ve let yourself go!"


    Her words hit me like a shard of ice, piercing my heart and sending a shiver throughout my body.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I looked like a mess?


    The irony was not lost on me. I would love to care about my appearance, but wasn''t that all thanks to


    the Dawsons? Taking my money, all while wanting to leech off my hard work. Once they''ve had their fill,


    they''re ready to kick me to the curb.


    Sure, Marissa was all prim and proper, but that was all thanks to my money that she used to spruce


    herself up. And now they had the audacity to berate me for my appearance.


    Wasn''t it not long ago when Hazel was a struggling mother, her house adorned with hangingundry


    and her face worn from worry over her children''s well-being?


    Now, draped in pearls and gold, she puts on airs of a wealthy woman. After only a brief taste of the


    good life, she''s already looking down on me.


    One day, I''ll make sure she remembers what it was like before.


    Gritting my teeth, I collected myself and sat down on the sofa, still holding onto Probert. I met Hazel''s


    gaze and responded calmly, "Mother, there are good days and bad days with illness. I have to get out


    to get some fresh air."


    I ran a hand through my short hair, "I had to cut it due to hair loss from the illness. I guess I do need to


    care more about my appearance. After all, even you can''t stand to look at me."


    Hazel''s disdain was evident. Her attitude towards me was a stark contrast to how she treated Marissa.


    She turned her stern gaze towards Probert, "Aren''t you supposed to be doing your homework?"


    Probert shrank back in fear, trying to pull his hand away. I tightened my grip, not letting go, and turned


    to Hazel, "Mother, did Probert upset you?"


    "You should ask him. He can''t even keep track of his school work, always fighting with his ssmates.


    He never gives me a moment''s peace. I''ve had enough of him!"


    "I''ll take him back with me then. I''m sorry for the trouble he''s caused. You need a break, and I can look


    after him for a few days." I jabbed subtly, "The Dawson children are always a handful!"


    "You..."


    "I remember you once told me that all Dawson children are naughty, even those who don''t excel in


    school end up doing well in life! Look, you were right. They''re all doing well in thepany now!" I


    continued with a thin smile, "Let me take Probert back, you need a break."


    "No, Jan said you''re too ill to take care of your children!" Hazel, taken aback, quickly refuted, "You


    should focus on getting better!"


    "Yes, I need to recover, but that won''t stop me from taking care of Probert. Your health is also


    important, mother. Nobody can predict when illness will strike. And since everyone at thepany is


    worried about me, I should look after my own child. Otherwise, it''s not fair." I stood up, "I won''t be


    eating here. I''ll take Probert out for a bite, and have a chat with him."


    "And what''s that supposed to mean? He''s been here since he was a child, and now you want to take


    him away just because you showed up? Are you saying I''ve been mistreating him? If your condition


    worsens, we''ll have to bring him back. Who''s he supposed to listen to?" Hazel snapped back, her


    words harsh and unforgiving.


    "He''ll listen to whoever is right!" My tone hardened, "You''ve done nothing wrong, mother. That''s how


    children grow. I''ll be careful this time, I won''t let myself fall ill again."


    "And how am I supposed to exin this to Jan?" She stood up, blocking my path.


    "Mother! I''m just taking him home for a few days, there''s nothing to exin. If it''s Jan''s decision,


    then I''ll call him and ask for his approval." I showed no sign of backing down.


    Just as I was about to dial Jan''s number, to my surprise, Jan entered the room.

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    Chapter 69


    What a coincidence, he showed up just as I did, must have been tipped off. But his timing couldn''t be


    more perfect!


    Jan strolled in, eyeing our predicament with a smile. "What''s going on here?"


    Before I could even speak, his mother took the initiative to y the victim. "It''s all Aaliyah''s fault. She


    didn''t even greet us properly, just rushed to take Probert home. Look at her, all sick and wan. How can


    she take care of a child? I bet she even struggles to take care of herself."


    She med me directly, dripping with disdain, ready to kick-start her tirade against me, a stark contrast


    to the sweet-faced charm she used when speaking with Marissa.


    I simply kept my peace, observing the unfolding drama with a smile.


    Hazel cast me a sidelong nce, her lips curling in a sneer. "Look at the way she''s dressed. She looks


    like a beggar. She doesn''t fit the Dawson family image one bit. Can we really trust her with the child?


    And besides, he''s such a handful. Not like..."


    Hazel abruptly cut herself off, casting another nce my way, then at Jan. She''d clearly caught


    herself before saying something she might regret.


    I pressed, "Like what?"


    Of course, I knew what she meant. She was implying that the child wasn''t as well-behaved as Marissa.


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I clenched my fists, my gaze fixated on Jan.


    Jan''s eyes tightened slightly before he turned to his mother. "Mother, listen to yourself. Aaliyah has


    been sick for so long, but the moment she recovers, she''s here to see the kid. She misses him, that''s


    all. Let her take him, why are you making this such a big deal?"


    I kept my easy smile, watching their little performance.


    The image of the perfect husband and his heartwarming words moved me to tears.


    Even Hazel was taken aback by her son''s intentions, her eyes wide in surprise and confusion.


    Jan then directed at his mother, "Mother, can you help Probert pack a few clothes? We''ll take him


    home for a few days. If it doesn''t work out, we can always bring him back!"


    Hazel shot Jan a harsh look but before she could say anything, Jan stepped forward with a smile


    and put his arm around her, "Go on, don''t worry. We have a nanny at home. It''ll be fine."


    Only then did Hazel''s features soften, and she turned to head towards the bedroom.


    I was certain that Jan must have signaled his mother somehow, which was why she went to pack


    without any fuss. But the next moment, her call drifted from the room, "Jan, can youe here for a


    moment?"


    Jan raised his hands in a shrug, looked at me apologetically. "Just a moment, I''ll be right back."


    As I watched him disappear into the room, I scoffed under my breath, then turned to little Probert who


    had been standing silently by my side. "Don''t be scared, mommy will take you home to y with your


    little brother, okay?"


    Probert looked up at me, some fear apparent in his eyes, but he didn''t say a word.


    I squatted down, meeting his gaze. I gave him a warm smile, gently pinching his little cheek. "Don''t you


    miss mommy? Mommy misses Probert so much."


    His lips twitched, but he remained silent.


    "I was sick before and all I could do was sleep. I didn''t know that Probert had been sent to grandma''s


    house. Now that mommy is almost well, I can take you home," I exined softly.


    "Will...will my sistere home too?" He finally spoke. I felt a lump in my throat, my eyes welling up. I


    nodded vigorously, holding back my tears. "Of course! We all have to be together!"


    "Then...will you...will you pick me up from school?" He looked at me, hesitantly.


    "Of course, mommy will drop you off and pick you up from school," I couldn''t help but kiss his forehead.


    I felt an overwhelming urge to be close to him. "Would you like mommy to do that?"


    He stared at me for a long time before finally nodding.


    Truth be told, I didn''t see a hint of mischief in him. He seemed rather mncholic.


    Just then, Jan emerged, pulling a small suitcase behind him. He addressed Probert, "Son, grab your


    backpack!"


    Probert finally let go of my hand and ran to pick up his little backpack. He looked up at Jan.


    I couldn''t shake off the feeling that Probert was afraid of Jan. He didn''t seem very close to him.

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    Chapter 70


    Janughed warmly, giving our son a casual pat on the head, "Let''s go!"


    Probert looked at me with wide, timid eyes, unmoving. I walked over and took Probert''s small hand,


    giving it a small shake, "Let''s go! We''re heading home."


    With that, I led Probert out, not looking back.


    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Hazel emerge from her room, her face stormy as she watched us


    leave. I didn''t bother saying goodbye.


    Respect is a two-way street and I saw no reason to warm up to her cold demeanor.


    Just as we were about to leave, Hazel called out from behind us, "Make sure you send him back in a


    few days!"


    I thought to myself, Send him back? Not here, that''s for sure.


    I didn''t rush home with Probert. Instead, we leisurely strolled, eating food he enjoyed and visiting


    ces he wanted to see. He seemed happy, though he didn''t talk much, asionally ncing towards


    Jan who was always at our side.


    I had a hunch that Probert''s life at his grandmother''s was far from carefree.


    Intuition told me he and Jan, his father, were strangers. Which meant...Jan didn''t visit Probert


    often.


    Thinking about this, an image of a photo of Jan, Marissa, and their child at a theme park, a picture of


    familial bliss, shed in my mind.


    My heart clenched and I felt a surge of anger. I wanted to tear that suave and cultured mask of Jan


    to shreds.


    I vowed, Jan, I won''t let you have this opportunity again. If you want to y the role of a good father,


    it''ll only be for my children.


    Despite Jan''s reminders not to tire myself, I took Probert to a children''s clothing store. I wanted to


    buy clothes for my children.


    If their children could dress well, why not mine?


    I not only bought clothes for Probert but also Monique and Carl. I also bought myself some new


    clothes. Today I was on a revenge shopping spree, anything that caught my eye was bought.


    Hazel said I didn''t pay attention to my appearance? She said I looked like a beggar? I didn''t look like a


    Dawson? What a joke! I didn''t even know what a Dawson was supposed to look like.


    When I married into the family, Jan was hesitant to bring me home. Back then, the Dawson family


    was worlds apart from what it is now.


    Back then, they slept in bunk beds and shared clothes, from the eldest to the youngest. And now they


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    imed I didn''t look like a Dawson? How ridiculous!


    I knew I had to change my spending habits. Saving for the sake of saving was pointless when it all


    went into the mistress'' pocket. I felt so pathetic and tasteless.


    Even Hazel called me a beggar. I had to change!


    So, after buying clothes, I dragged Jan into a boutique. If I was going to shop, I was going to go all


    out.


    Just as I was getting into the swing of things, we ran into Marissa and her son. It was a small world


    indeed, never would I have thought we''d cross paths like this.


    It happened in a split second, catching everyone off guard.


    We came face to face with each other, and in that moment, the three adults froze. Then the young boy


    broke the silence with a cheerful shout, "Dad!"

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    Chapter 71


    At that instant, Marissa and Jan''s expressions changed dramatically. I looked at Jan with a


    puzzled expression, curiosity seeping through my words, "Is that kid calling you?"


    Before Jan could respond, Marissa reacted swiftly. Crouching down awkwardly, she reached out to


    the boy and said, "Honey, you can''t just shout out like that. Your dad is fetching the car! You should say


    ''sir'', not ''dad''!"


    The next moment, the boy''s face twisted in a strange expression, his spine stiffened as he stared at


    Jan with a look of utter wronged. I knew the hand behind him was doing something.


    At this moment, Jan was trying to maintain hisposure, observing the spectacle with cool


    detachment. Yet, his face was somewhat grim, his eyes harsh as they bore into the little boy.


    Following this, Marissa stood up with the boy, her hand gripping his tightly. The firmness of her grip was


    apparent. Still ying along, Marissa pointed at Probert and said, "This is Probert Dawson from your


    school, remember?"


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    Probert clutched my hand tighter, his gaze fixed on Marissa, silent.


    Jan''s face was etched with displeasure, his presence rather aloof.


    With a smile stered on her face, Marissa nodded at us saying, "Mr. And Mrs. Dawson, ,long time no


    see!"


    "Long time indeed!" I replied, thinking to myself, it has been a long time indeed! So long that you''ve


    managed to get mypany and you even had a kid with my husband!


    Marissa turned to me, her voice oozing with affection as she said, "Mrs. Dawson, it''s been years since


    west met. I heard you fell sick and I couldn''t find the time to visit you! You''ve lost so much weight, I


    wouldn''t recognize you if we didn''t bump into each other here!"


    "Indeed! I fell sick, but I managed to escape death!" I replied with a chuckle, unabashedly staring at the


    little boy and asked, "Is this your child? Are you married?"


    Marissa pulled the boy closer to herself, swallowed nervously, and replied, "¡­Yes, why else would I


    have quit my job!"


    "You quit?" I feigned surprise, turning to Jan, "You never told me!"


    Jan tugged a corner of his lips, as if it was nothing out of the ordinary, nonchntly responding, "You


    were sick at that time, I didn''t want to bother you. It was long time ago!"


    The boy continuously stared at Jan. Marissa appeared distressed, constantly controlling the boy, as


    if afraid of what he might blurt out next.


    I intentionally focused on the boy, studying his face. Truth be told, the boy was quite adorable, with his


    clear and innocentplexion. If it weren''t for the fact that he was the offspring of Jan''s mistress, I


    would have definitely liked him.


    Bending down, I came closer to him and asked, "Hey boy, what''s your name?"


    Marissa instinctively pulled the boy closer and quickly answered, "His name is Evan!"


    "Oh? Evan, what a wonderful name!"


    Marissa quickly nced at Jan, who maintained a poker face.


    Perhaps Jan noticed my constant gaze on the boy, he finally spoke up, "Why don''t you guys catch


    up some other time? Allie is tired from all the shopping, we were about to head home."


    Marissa immediately followed suit, "Right! Mrs. Dawson, I won''t keep you! I get so carried away every


    time I see you, Ipletely forgot about your illness!"


    "No rush, we''ve not met for so long, it''s natural to want to catch up. Jan, why don''t you take the kids


    for some ice cream? This little one seems to be fond of you!" I deliberately sought Jan''s opinion, my


    eyes watching him closely.

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    Chapter 72


    Marissa quickly said, "Perhaps another time. I''m sorry, Mr. Dawson! My son knows you, you know.


    Whenever hees to the office, you always jokingly make him call you ''Dad'' and even buy him


    snacks. He remembers all that!"


    Jan simplyughed, "Oh... I see! No wonder he calls me ''Dad'' with such sweetness!"


    Marissa gave an awkward grin, her facial muscles tensed up.


    "Alright then, let''s arrange another time!" Seeing Jan still standing there, I pointed to the shopping


    bags and said, "Honey, go and settle the bill for those bags. We''ll take all of them!"


    Marissa instinctively nced towards the counter. The items waiting to be packed were all limited


    edition pieces recently arrived. Her expression stiffened for a moment, but soon fleeted.


    Then she grabbed her son''s hand and said, "Mrs. Dawson, we need to go, his father is here to pick us


    up!"


    "Sure! Bring your husband next time, we should all get together!" I replied with a sincere smile.


    A twitch appeared at the corner of Marissa''s mouth. She gave Jan a quick smile, grabbed her son''s


    hand and hurried off, disappearing from my sight like she was running away.


    The poor child kept turning back, staring at the stern-faced Jan.


    "Honey," I looked at Jan with a pointed expression. "You know, the kid really does resemble you!


    The way he gazes at you... Anyone who didn''t know better would think he''s your son!"


    Jan''s face turned dark. "Allie, don''t say things like that!"


    I couldn''t help butugh. "Look at you, so serious! I was just joking!"


    In my heart though, I was thrilled. Secret affairs always remain secret, even if it involves your own son,


    you dare not acknowledge him in front of me!


    I turned to the cashier and instructed, "Pack all these for me! You can deliver it."


    As he handed over his credit card, Jan asked with a slightly troubled expression, "Do we need all


    these?"


    I retorted, "Having second thoughts? Your mother said I look like a beggar, a disgrace to the Dawson


    family. Now that the Dawson family''s reputation is already ruined, don''t you want to spend a little


    money to make it look better?"


    He didn''t say a word, just handed over his card reluctantly.


    We shopped until the car was filled to the brim. Feeling satisfied, I gave themand to head home.


    Jan looked visibly relieved. His face softened considerably.


    Back at home, I asked Zora to move all the stuff into my room while I went with Probert to his room.


    Zora wanted to tidy up his room, but I refused. I wanted to take care of Probert''s daily needs myself.


    Despite being tired after hours of shopping, I insisted on giving Probert a bath myself.


    He was awkward throughout, covering his private parts all the time, looking utterly adorable.


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    After tidying up, I put my arm around Probert''s shoulder and asked, "Probert, are you happy?"


    He blinked at me, his face full of varied expressions, but he didn''t say anything.


    I encouraged him, "Tell Mom, okay?"


    "You''re not happy?" I asked him intentionally since he wasn''t saying anything.


    He nodded, his gaze dropping.


    "Did your grandmother never take you out to y when you were at her house?" I asked tentatively. I


    felt there was something wrong with Probert''s mood and since we were alone now, I wanted to


    understand what it was.


    On hearing my question, Probert shook his head, ying with his small hand.


    I had a hunch that Probert had been neglected in the Dawson family. This was evident from his


    grandmother''s harsh words towards him when I entered the Dawson residence today.


    His excitement and joy when we were out today confirmed my suspicions.


    I held Probert close and gave him a kiss, "From now on, Mom will take you out more often! During the


    summer holidays, Mom will take you, your sister and your little brother out, okay?"


    Sure enough, my words piqued his interest. He looked up at me, cautiously asking, "Really?"


    "Of course, Mom''s illness is all better now!" I emphasized this as I didn''t know what Zora had told the


    kids in the video which scared them off. But I knew this wasn''t the right time to ask Probert about it.


    Iy down with him on the bed, intending to coax him into talking more. But then, Jan walked in.


    Seeing Probert and me on the bed, he also sat down next to us, looking at Probert.


    Clearly, Probert''s rxed expression tightened up again.

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    Chapter 73


    Before I could get him out of the room, his phone started to ring. He nced at it and immediately


    turned it off.


    Then, with a smile, he looked at Probert and casually patted him on the head, "Son, are you tired? Go


    to sleep if you are¡­"


    Before he could finish, his phone rang again. He stood up and said to me, "I''m going to take a shower!


    Go to bed, son!"


    Without holding back, I asked directly, "Why aren''t you answering your phone?"


    He brushed it off with a simple, "it''s just Jessica!"


    I understood and said, "Then answer it! She must need something if she''s calling thiste!"


    "It''s about a payment! I need to check the report before I can reply to her!" He was a master of


    fabrication.


    If I''m not mistaken, this call was from Marissa.


    After Jan finished speaking, he quickly left Probert''s room. I ignored him and continued to chat with


    Probert.


    Of course, most of the talking was done by me. Even so, I enjoyed it. I was willing to talk to him.


    Nothing was more important than my kids. I had to make Probert lively.


    After chatting Probert to sleep, I returned to my room, too exhausted to even take a shower.


    Just as I was about to fall asleep, Jan, fully dressed, appeared at the foot of my bed. With a


    ttering smile, he gently said, "You go to sleep first! I need to go to the office. There''s a discrepancy in


    the ounts. I need to check it. I don''t have that document on the homeputer. I have to make a


    payment to someone tomorrow."


    Upon hearing this, I perked up and firmly replied, "No, you''re not going. Why do you need to check the


    ounts in the middle of the night? What''s the rush to make payment tomorrow? Who called you? If


    they can''t handle this little thing, they shouldn''t do it at all. Jan, we''re not done with what happened


    today! I''m exhausted, going to sleep, and you''re not going anywhere!"


    To be honest, this was the first time since we got married that I spoke to him in such a tone, and I was


    quite adamant. Jan was probably stunned by my firm attitude, he stood rooted to the spot, looking at


    me dumbfounded for a while.


    The most crucial part was that he didn''t understand what I meant by ''we''re not done with what


    happened today, but the guilty are always fearful.


    He stood by the bed for quite some time before he obediently changed his clothes, turned off his


    phone, and didn''t dare to leave.


    As hey down on the bed, he reached out to me. As soon as his body touched my skin, I immediately


    pped his hand away, "I already said I''m exhausted!"


    I thought to myself, do you think I''m like those cheap women who get turned on at the slightest touch?


    Jan was visibly taken aback, he chuckled and said, "We haven''t done it in a while, honey, I miss


    you."


    His words sent chills down my spine, and I nearly threw up. I quickly moved to the other side of the bed


    and retorted, "You know very well what condition I''m in. I can barely stay alive, how can I think about


    that?"


    "So why did you insist on taking Probert back?" Jan was somewhat annoyed by my attitude and shot


    back.


    "You dare to ask? I haven''t even asked you yet. During the time I''ve been ill, have you even visited


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    Probert? Do you think that leaving the child with your mother solves everything?" I turned over and


    looked at him, staring right into his eyes, "Have you noticed any changes in Probert''s character?"


    "I was busy, okay?" Jan defended, "Aren''t you at ease with my mother taking care of him? What


    changes could there be? You''re making a big deal out of nothing!"


    "Making a big deal out of nothing?" I was furious, my voice raised a notch, "You''re busy? Everyone in


    your family is at thepany, only you''re busy, too busy to even spare some time to be with your


    child? Then why are we raising them? Thepany is there to improve our quality of life, not for a


    bunch of people to freeloading. If they can''t handle this, they should all go! You can all take a break, I''ll


    take over, without that bunch of useless people!"


    My words were straight to the point.


    Damn it, if I don''t put some pressure on them, they''ll really think I''m dead.


    Indeed, my words hit Jan hard. His hand, which was wandering over my body, stopped abruptly.

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    Chapter 74


    He wore a disgruntled expression, abruptly pulling back his hand, "Can''t you watch yournguage?"


    I bore into him with a prating gaze. "Is the truth so hard to swallow? Aren''t they just a bunch of


    parasites? You''re the only one working, even pouring our shared fortunes into their pockets. All they do


    is sit around and wait for their sry!"


    Jan seemed taken aback, trying to form a rebuttal, but I cut him off, "I didn''t invest in thepany


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    for them! Family is one thing, but you''re going beyond that, Jan. Are you nning on turning this into


    a charity foundation? And now they''re calling me a beggar. Have I ever begged from your family,


    Jan? Has the Dawson family ever contributed a single dime to Medsafe Liyah Inc.?"


    I was straight forward, and confronted him head-on. I wouldn''t be their pushover anymore.


    Jan, sensing my rising anger, quickly attempted to soothe the situation. He wrapped an arm around


    my waist, leaning in to whisper in my ear, "Darling, I''m sorry. I overlooked things. But I thought we were


    talking about the kids?"


    "So you think you''re right about our kids?" I retorted.


    Jan tried tough it off, "Come on, what could possibly go wrong with my mom looking after her


    grandson?"


    I recoiled from his approaching figure, repulsed, "Your mom?"


    "She can be the best grandma but she can''t rece a father. He''s your son! Aren''t you concerned?


    Haven''t you noticed Probert''s behavior?" I asked pointedly, meeting his gaze. "If you''re not paying


    attention to your own son, who are you paying attention to?"


    Jan was stunned by my outburst, looking guilty, "What are you talking about? What''s wrong?"


    "What''s wrong? You''re so busy ying daddy to everyone else, you''ve forgotten about your own son.


    Lucky for me, my illness seems to be improving. If I was still sick, Probert might get sick too, just like


    me!"


    "You''re just making things up! When have I ever called anyone else my son! Stop being paranoid,


    Allie!" Jan''s eyes flickered as hey back, "You''re right, I should pay more attention."


    I voiced my concerns earnestly, "I think our son might have mild autism."


    Janughed it off, "Allie, don''t exaggerate. It''s not that serious. You''re just scaring yourself."


    "Scaring myself? He''s been neglected by the Dawson family. Haven''t you noticed? When I visited


    today, your mom was berating him, banging on the table. He''s just a child, he can''t be that much at


    fault. Does she really need to be so harsh?


    He''s been so frightened, like a little kitten. I can''t imagine what he''s been through these past few days.


    What kind of father are you? Why are you letting them hurt him!"


    I couldn''t contain my anger, sitting up abruptly, "Jan, this is not over. I''ve turned a blind eye before,


    but I''m truly disappointed in you today. I can overlook other things, but not when ites to my child. I


    won''t back down. If Probert doesn''t bounce back to his usual self, Jan, you''ll have to answer to me!"


    "You''re overthinking! My mom loves him," Jan defended, pushing my patience to the limits.


    "You''re still in denial? You saw how she treated me, right? If she can treat me that way in front of our


    child, what can''t she do? Tell me! Without me, would you have what you have today? You''re biting the


    hand that feeds you. The Dawsons sure are domineering!"


    Jan watched me coldly, his eyes harboring an unreadable emotion that sent chills down my spine.


    After all, this bastard had wanted to get rid of me.


    But this was a game of power, and I had to win for the safety of my children. If I lost, it would be a


    I couldn''t afford to give his mistress an inch. She had crossed a line, and I wouldn''t let it go.


    I was gambling on the fact that the Wilburn family still held value, that we were still a tempting piece of


    meat he hadn''t sucked dry. Once that card lost its value, I''d be stuck, unable to turn the tables. So I had


    to go all in.


    As long as we held value, I could break this stalemate, and that was my only chance to win.


    From the moment I unintentionally took back Probert, I knew that while my life didn''t matter, my


    children had to escape from this trap they had set.


    So I stood my ground, refusing to back down. I couldn''t afford to lose my momentum.

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    Chapter 75


    "Honey, it''s my fault!" Jan finally softened, "I''ll pay more attention to this. I''ll be a good dad!"


    I smiled ruefully to myself. He was a good dad, but not a good one for my children.


    "Starting next term, Monique will stop boarding andmute to school!" I demanded. "They are still so


    young, after all!"


    "But can you handle it?" Jan asked in feigned concern.


    "Whether I can or not, I have to. Children should grow up in a harmonious environment. Neglecting


    them after giving birth is not my style! Since I''m alive, they must alle home!" I stated unequivocally.


    Slowly, Iy back down. I was utterly exhausted and felt like I was about to copse.


    "Okay, we''ll do as you wish!" He conceded, "Are you not mad anymore?"


    He leaned closer again.


    "Let''s sleep! We have to take Probert to school tomorrow!" I said, closing my eyes.


    I was silently anxious. It seemed I really needed to make a trip back to Silverdale City.


    The next day.


    As soon as I got up, I went straight to Probert''s room, only to find that Zora was already there. I told her


    somewhat irritably, "From now on, I''ll take care of Probert. You don''t need to bother about him. Go and


    prepare breakfast quickly! Probert has to get to school on time."


    Upon hearing this, she handed me the clothes she was holding for Probert and left the room.


    I noticed that Probert wasn''t as clingy towards her as I had seen in the video, which was a good sign.


    Carl was still young and was used to Zora''s care, and I had to take things slow. Plus, given my current


    physical condition, I needed some time to recuperate.


    At breakfast, ra was nowhere to be seen. I didn''t bother asking about her. After ensuring Probert


    had eaten, I drove him straight to school. He seemed noticeably happier today. Before entering the


    school building, he turned to wave at me, then ran in.


    I watched him run into the school building with a smile before getting back into the car.


    I was truly exhausted, so I drove straight home and called Logan to make sure his people were keeping


    a close eye on Jan and Marissa. I needed to keep Marissa on her toes and put some pressure on


    her.


    Logan let out a wicked chuckle, "Don''t worry! I guarantee I''ll make that Dawslug sweat bullets. And the


    person I arranged to do it will be in position today."


    "So soon?" I was surprised. This was efficiency at its best.


    "Why? Do you think it''s too soon? Should I let the bullet fly a bit more?" He joked.


    "No, they''ve had their fun long enough. They''ve be socent they''ve forgotten who calls the


    shots!" I was in a good mood today.


    Thinking about how I had exposed Jan''s true naturest night made me feel good. I needed to


    remind him constantly of what he really is.


    Logan, on the other end of the line, chuckled at my words, "I love it when you''re being cheeky! But I


    have to remind you, don''t get too close to Dawslug again. He must have been affected!"


    I blushed instantly, d that this conversation was happening over the phone, or it would have been


    truly embarrassing.


    "Absolutely!" I replied, forcing out augh, "He''s a piece of crap!"


    This made Loganugh even harder, making me want to die of embarrassment!


    When I got home, I went straight to bed to catch up on sleep. I had indeed overexerted myself


    yesterday, and every part of my body ached.


    When I woke up, I found the house eerily quiet. Not a soul was in sight. It seemed Zora had gone out


    again.


    After eating a little, Iy back down and checked the surveince records. To my surprise, I found


    something new and immediately opened the video.


    The footage was from yesterday, just after I had left. No sooner had I stepped out the door than Zora


    called Jan to tell him I had gone to Probert''s school.


    Then, speaking to Jan on the phone in an extremely displeased tone, Zora said, "What are you


    nning by allowing her to resume her normal life? Don''t you think her waking up is a threat to us? I


    feel that the way she looks at me is not right. Also, you''d better rein yourself in."


    I couldn''t hear the response from the other end, but Zora''s displeasure was evident. Angrily, she said,


    "What do you mean by saying I have a guilty conscience? Was it me who wanted to harm her? You


    were the one who ordered the hit, and now you''re the one calling it off. No matter what you''re nning,


    I''m warning you, Aaliyah is no fool. You''d better not provoke ra anymore. She''s not one to let things


    slide. If Aaliyah finds out, none of us will have a good end."


    I don''t know what Jan on the other end was saying, but Zora''s face was growing grimmer.


    Finally, Zora spat out a threat, "Jan, don''t me me for being ruthless. I won''t mind..."


    Perhaps the person on the other end didn''t pay any attention to her words and just hung up. Zora,


    enraged, threw her phone on the floor angrily.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She was clearly embarrassed and furious!


    The following scene was of ra returning home from work with a cheerful Carl. As soon as Zora saw


    them, she walked over and took Carl into her arms, "Why are you sote? Weren''t you supposed to


    pick him up at 4 o''..."


    Before she could finish her sentence, her eyes were drawn to something, and she stared at ra.

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76


    Intrigued, I zoomed in on what Zora was looking at on her screen, puzzled.


    I then heard Zora ask, "Where''d you get that?"


    ra, smug, ran a hand over her neck and giggled with a sickly sweet tone, "It''s a gift from Mister! He


    said I''m just so darn adorable he couldn''t resist! He gave me this ne and even bought me two


    new outfits because apparently, I can''t look shabby when I go to the office!"


    She then unted the shopping bags in her hand, "Mister took me shopping, that''s why I got backte!


    He said he wouldn''t be home for dinner."


    At this, Zora was livid. She was holding Baby Carl and impulsively pped ra across the face.


    The p was so fierce I could almost feel the sting myself. I saw Zora still holding Carl, who was


    startled from the force of it. Carl nearly went flying, and I couldn''t help but scream in fright.


    Luckily, Carl was clinging to Zora''s neck at the time and was saved from a nasty fall.


    However, the sudden movement scared him and he immediately burst into tears.


    I couldn''t help but think, "I need to focus more on the kid. Despite his young age, if he continues to be


    around this shrew, he''s going to suffer."


    ra was momentarily stunned by the p. She instinctively covered her face and then, in a blink of


    an eye, she was furious. With the speed of lightning, she returned the p. From the look of it, ra''s


    p was no less potent than Zora''s.


    Actually, it was urate, hard, and swift!


    She was so fast that I didn''t even see what had happened on the monitor.


    This sent Zora into a frenzy. She set Carl down on the couch and lunged at ra. They were


    immediately entangled in a catfight.


    Baby Carl was scared and crying hysterically on the sofa. I was so angry I nearly stormed downstairs, I


    almost forgot that I was just watching a surveince recording.


    Heart pounding, I watched Carl weeping pitifully, my heart aching. Yet, the two women were still going


    at it, seemingly oblivious to the crying child.


    Cracks echoed through the room as ps were thrown, apanied by a slew of curses.


    Zora seemed to unleash all the anger she''d been holding back all afternoon onto ra, hitting with a


    ferocity as if ra wasn''t her sister at all.


    In the end, Zora won the fight. Her physique, plump and robust from livingfortably, gave her an


    advantage over the frail and gaunt ra.


    She got off ra, copsed onto the sofa to catch her breath, and cradled a still bawling Carl. Pointing


    at the copsed ra, she spat venomously, "You listen here, you bitch! You have one week to get out


    of here! Or don''t me me for being heartless."


    ra, lying on the floor, startedughing weakly at her words, "Zora, you should ask Mister if he


    agrees!You are actually heartless, because you even dared to beat our parents up!"


    This statement simply blew my mind. I never expected Zora to disregard her family respect, no wonder


    she could easily cross the lines with me.


    "If you say that again, just try me!" Zora threatened.


    "Hahaha! Zora, do you really think I''m scared of you?" ra rallied, getting up from the floor. Her


    disheveled hair framed her pale face, making her look ghostly. Yet, her expression was defiant, not a


    trace of fear to be seen.


    I have to admit, these two were seasoned fighters. Neither of them had gone for the face but judging


    from ra''s struggle to get up, she must have been hurt pretty bad.


    She struggled to her feet, swaying, then walked over to Zora. A wicked smile crept across her ashen


    face as she raised an eyebrow at Zora, "Zora, the folks over at Seaside are still looking for their


    daughter. Isn''t that silly? Should I tell them..."


    "ra... you''re talking nonsense!" Zora''s eyes widened as she stared at ra, who seemed to have


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    transformed into a specter before her eyes.

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77


    As ra observed Zora''s panic, she couldn''t help but burst intoughter. She smoothed down her


    messy hair and eyed Zora, who looked as if she''d been struck by lightning. "Scared, are you?"


    My heart tightened. So, Zora did have secrets. No wonder she had asked Maddox to keep his mouth


    shut. But how did ra know? Could it be...


    I shook my head. What a chaotic family this was.


    "ra... you... shut your mouth!" Zora clung to Carl, her eyes wide with disbelief as she stared at ra,


    "Shut up!"


    "Alright then!" As ra adjusted her torn dress, she suddenly strode forward and pped Zora across


    the face. Zora, still clutching Carl, stumbled and fell onto the sofa.


    Carl, who hadn''t been crying before, was now bawling, having been startled by the suddenmotion.


    I was seething with anger.


    Zora, however, was quick tofort Carl, not caring about her own throbbing cheek. She scrambled to


    her feet, picked Carl up, and soothed him. Then she turned to ra and yelled, "If you scare Carl, no


    one will forgive you!"


    It was clear to me that Zora truly cared for Carl.


    ra nced at Carl, whose little face was flushed from crying, and let out a cold huff. "It''s your


    negligence that you can''t take care of him properly."


    "You..." Zora was so infuriated by her sister that she was shaking like a leaf.


    But ra was nonchnt, ying with her hair. "Zora, from now on, if you darey a finger on me, I


    swear you''ll be ruined! You think I don''t know about your ambitions, that you''re trying to be thedy of


    this house? Dream on!"


    "Why are you acting so high and mighty? You''re no better!" Zora shot back, her anger evident.


    "I''m nothing like you!" ra retorted shamelessly. "I just want what you want, and don''t think I don''t see


    through you. Look, anything you want can easily be mine!


    I don''t want to steal the title of Mrs. Dawson, just a night''s sleep. As long as the Mr. Dawson wants it,


    I''m more than willing to open my legs!"


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    As she spoke, she twirled a strand of her hair and added slyly, "Oh, do you think I should remind Mrs.


    Dawson? I wouldn''t want to disappoint her; she''s such a kind, naive woman. I''d love to help her out."


    Overwhelmed by ra''s tant threats, Zora was visibly shaken. She red at ra, but her eyes


    "Stop talking nonsense, ra! Don''t push me!" Zora warned, her eyes fixed on ra.


    "Push you? You think this is pushing you? You think nobody knows what you''ve been up to? But


    remember, what goes aroundes around!" ra was quite the tricky one. Her expressions were


    hard to read.


    "What did you do to Maddox?" Zora''s words confirmed my suspicions.


    "Hahaha! Maddox? What could I possibly have done to that dumb ass?" ra flicked her straightened


    hair arrogantly. "Do I even need to do anything? With just a little beckoning, hees crawling to lick


    my boots! Hahaha! How else would I know about your dirty deeds, your failed attempt to sneakily get


    rid of someone else''s daughter. Tell me, what do you think Mr. Dawson would do if he knew about your


    nasty tricks?"


    Hearing this, I felt a chill down my spine. I stared at Carl in Zora''s arms, wondering if she would harm


    my children if she couldn''t get what she wanted in this house.


    In the scene, ra was no longer the innocent bunny, her demeanor was more like a cunning fox. But


    Zora, on the other hand, seemed to have lost the fight.


    She despised ra, yet she dared not touch her.


    What should have been an easy win was ruined by ra.


    And I had seen ra''s dark, cunning, and ruthless side.


    "Zora, do you think it''s time for me to leave, or for you to leave? Or should we live peacefully like a


    loving family?" ra advanced threateningly towards Zora. "Also, sis, $300 is not enough for me! If you


    can give $2,000 to Maddox, I should at least get the same, right? You''re my older sister after all. Oh,


    and what information do you want to get... that woman and her child? She''s Mr. Dawson''s woman, is


    she?"


    Upon hearing this, Zora was rendered speechless.

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78


    "ra...you are my sister, my own flesh and blood. I''ve taken care of you for so many years, never


    missed a payment for your tuition. How could you treat me like this? Do you even have a conscience?"


    Zora''s tone softened. "We used to have a good family, how did we end up like this? Do you even know


    why I left in the first ce?"


    ra shrugged, her face losing its smug smile. "Everyone has their own fate, Zora. If it wasn''t for what


    happened, you wouldn''t be where you are today. Don''t talk to me about how you treated me at home,


    did you ever treat me well? Huh?"


    As ra spoke, a twitch appeared at the corner of Zora''s mouth and she dropped her gaze.


    Undeterred, ra continued, "That''s why I want a piece of your pie now. Did you really think I couldn''t


    fight back? I was just testing you, giving you another chance as my sister. But you, did you show any


    mercy when you raised your hand against me? And you talk about sisterhood?"


    Without warning, ra pped Zora''s face. "Consider this payback for that incident when we were


    kids, okay?"


    Zora turned her face to one side, her expression pained. She red at ra but couldn''t find the words


    to respond.


    ra then, as if nothing had happened, sat next to Zora, took her arm, and leaned against her. "Ah, I''m


    done ying. I''m hungry! Sister, I want food! Mr. And Mrs. Dawson aren''t home, we need to treat


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ourselves, right?"


    I was speechless. What a horrifying pair of sisters, utterly shameless.


    After saying this, ra took Carl from Zora, even kissing him on the cheek. I was heartbroken. How


    could they treat my son like a toy, kissing him whenever they pleased.


    I put down my phone, unable to watch any longer, andid back down.


    I had to find a way to get rid of these devilish sisters as soon as possible.


    When Zora returned, she brought Carl back with her. As I took my son, I asked her, "Why were you


    gone so long?"


    She smiled apologetically and exined that she was looking for a new ce for ra. I didn''t ask


    further, it was clear she was lying. ra wasn''t someone Zora could easily get rid of.


    I watched Zora as she cooked in the kitchen, her mind seemed elsewhere. She must have gone to


    Maddox to settle scores, but looking at her state, she definitely didn''t win.


    I was secretly pleased. With troubles from both inside and outside, she wouldn''t have time to focus


    entirely on me.


    When I picked up Probert from school, I didn''t see Marissa, which was strange.


    Probert must have been expecting me. He came out really early, spotted me from far away, and ran to


    me, his face brightening up as he took my hand.


    I rubbed his head affectionately, his eyes sparkling with joy.


    Some of the other parents who recognized him asked, "Probert, who''s this?"


    He nced at me before announcing, "My mom!"


    His tone was unmistakably triumphant.


    On the drive home, I chatted with him non-stop. He answered all my questions quickly.


    I was grateful I had decided to bring him home. It was the best decision.


    When ra came home from work, she was alone. I asked her where Jan was and she, acting all


    sweet, helped me take care of the kids while exining that there seemed to be some trouble at our


    Just as she was talking, Jan called to inform me about some issues with the medical equipment we


    sold to the hospital. It was a big problem, he''d being homete.


    Iforted him and hung up.


    I guessed that this must be the issue Logan was talking about, the one that would give Jan a


    headache.


    Jan dide back quitete. As soon as he entered the room, his phone wouldn''t stop ringing. He


    hung up, looking frustrated.


    Seeing his state, it seemed like a major catastrophe. He seemed exhausted and asked


    absentmindedly, "Are the kids asleep?"


    "They''ve been asleep for a while! They yed till veryte, and the little one refused to sleep!" I smiled


    as I reported, acting like a dutiful wife. I even asked, "Do you want something to eat? I can make you


    something!"


    He shook his head, tossed his phone on the bathroom cab, and went to take a shower.

 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79


    The phone buzzed stubbornly again. Jan, still damp from the shower, promptly came out to answer


    it. Momentster, a grunt of annoyance echoed from within, "...I''m swamped with work... stop nagging!"


    Then, silence fell, save for the sound of running water in the background.


    When he emerged, he hastily dried himself off and flopped onto the bed. I asked with concern, "Are you


    tired?"


    "I''m not feeling too well," he replied hoarsely, pulling the covers over himself without another word.


    I reached out to touch his forehead, rmed. "You''re running a fever!"


    "Hmm," was hiszy and tired response.


    "I''ll fetch some aspirin!" I chattered, but didn''t move.


    "Quiet..." he mumbled.


    I snorted silently to myself. Fine, I''ll be quiet then.


    Not long after, he curled up into a ball, his breathing steady. He seemed to have fallen asleep. I tried to


    wake him but got no response.


    I quietly slipped out of bed, grabbed his phone, and retreated to the bathroom. His phone was switched


    off. I quickly turned it on and entered his home screen.


    Just as I suspected, the recent call was from a Secretary Collin. That must be Marissa Collin. She''d


    been calling him incessantly, from morning till night, all calls missed. It seemed that she hadn''t been


    able to reach Jan sincest night, and her anger hadn''t subsided.


    I opened his Messenger, but didn''t find any chat with Marissa. This puzzled me. Didn''t they use


    Messenger?


    Suddenly, it struck me. Jan had another phone. Could AzureEnchantress be Marissa? Could the


    woman he had to see once a week be Marissa?


    What a coincidence.


    I scrolled through his Messenger contacts, and a vulgar profile picture caught my eye. It looked a lot


    like a woman''s private area


    I clicked on it, ready to curse, but on a closer look, it was just a broom against a flesh-colored


    background. Very deceptive.


    God, what an effort.


    The contact''s nickname was a single word, ''Desire''. Anyone with a dirty mind could guess what that


    meant.


    The chat history was filled with their obscene exchanges. They were utterly crude and vulgar, and they


    had been in contact quite frequently recently.


    I was disgusted. Jan was nothing more than a beast in human clothing, ate-stage sexual addict.


    From their chat history, I deduced that Jan hadn''t been intimate with Marissa for a while. Guilty as he


    was, he wouldn''t dare to keep such chat records otherwise.


    I checked his other apps, but found nothing new. I turned off his phone and quietly returned it to its


    ce.


    Jan was still curled up under the covers, sleeping heavily. He seemed to have a high fever, but I


    didn''t bother to check. I wasn''t kind enough to care for a monster who wanted to kill me.


    Yet, I wasn''t satisfied. Why wasn''t there any information about Marissa? I had to confirm whether


    AzureEnchantress was Marissa.


    So, I found his car keys and quietly descended the stairs.


    The night was deep and silent. The dim light in the garage cast eerie shadows. I shivered involuntarily.


    I opened the car door with ease and reached into the spot where he usually kept his phone, but I


    couldn''t find his other phone. I was perplexed. He had definitely left it therest time. Did he take that


    phone up with him too?


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    That''s impossible. Jan was a meticulous man. That phone must''ve been of great importance to him.


    He wouldn''t be careless. Especially after withdrawing my medication and seeing me gradually recover,


    he should be more cautious.


    But no matter how hard I searched, I couldn''t find it.


    How strange!


    I was panting from the effort. Just as I was about to give up, a sudden noise came from behind me. I let


    out a piercing scream...

 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80


    "Madam, what are you doing here?"


    The silent, gloomy garage was suddenly shattered by that voice, nearly giving me a heart attack.


    Startled, I swiftly turned around only to find Zora, d in her thin nightgown, standing right behind me. I


    hadn''t heard a thing.


    My mind went nk for a moment.


    Damn it!


    Immediately, I copsed onto the seat, panting heavily as I patted my chest, trying to calm my racing


    heart.


    Frowning hard, I red at her and asked, "What the hell are you doing? Creeping around like a ghost,


    without making a single sound. You could scare someone to death, do you know that?"


    I closed my eyes, my mind racing on how to handle this tricky situation.


    Zora looked taken aback by my sudden outburst, her mouth opening and closing without making a


    sound.


    "Why are you skulking around in the middle of the night, were you following me?" I used her before


    she could say anything. She was left speechless.


    "I... I saw you... and followed you down," she stammered, clearly caught off guard.


    I gave her a stern look, then got up and tidied up the messy car. On my way out, I quickly grabbed a


    Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    box of medicine and a thermometer from thepartment in the car.


    Without a word, I locked the car and headed back to the house. Although I acted nonchntly, my


    heart was pounding. How did she know I was leaving the house and why did she follow me here? If she


    reports this to Jan, it will undoubtedly arouse his suspicions.


    I nced at the medicine box in my hand and breathed a sigh of relief. It was Tylenol, probably bought


    by Jan during the recent flu season. Luckily, it came in handy now.


    Zora followed me back to the house. I turned to her, coldly ordering, "Get me a ss of water!"


    She looked at me confusedly, but fetched a ss of water and followed me. As she came in, I opened


    the thermometer case, held it up to the light, then crawled next to Jan. I adjusted his face and put


    the thermometer into his mouth.


    Zora watched,pletely taken aback. "Is... is Mr. Dawson ill?" she stammered.


    I snapped at her, "What else could it be?"


    "I... I didn''t mean to follow you. I just saw you going out in the middle of the night..." Zora tried to


    exin.


    "You need to get something straight, Zora. This is my house, and I can go wherever I want, whenever I


    want. But you, skulking around in the middle of the night, following me - what''s your game? Is there


    something wrong with me going out in the middle of the night?" I pressed her hard, "Can''t I move


    around freely in my own house?"


    Zora looked taken aback, without any room to argue.


    "I... I will leave now," she said, clearly embarrassed. But as she turned to leave, I immediately stopped


    her, "Hold on!"


    She turned to me, clearly puzzled.


    "Check his temperature for me, and help me get him to take this medicine," Imanded coldly.


    After a while, I took out the thermometer and checked it against the light. Zora asked anxiously, "What''s


    the reading?"


    Feigning concern, I replied, "102.2¡ãF. It''s way too high."


    "But what should we do? Madam, shouldn''t we take him to the hospital?" Zora suggested, clearly


    worried.


    I shot her a stern look and she froze.


    I motioned her to hand over the medicine. She quickly handed me the Tylenol I''d brought from the car.


    After reading the instructions, I took out two pills and urged her to hand over the water. Carefully, I held


    up Jan''s head, forced open his shut mouth, and fed him the pills with the water.


    Through his grogginess, he struggled a bit. I softly reassured him, "Don''t move, your fever is too high.


    You need to take the medicine."


    I put on a convincing act, secretly feeling d that Jan had fallen ill that night. Otherwise, I would


    have been in a tight spot.


    After he swallowed the medicine, I noticed Zora checking the thermometer.


    Keeping up the act, Iid Jan back on the pillow, touching my forehead to his, and sighed.


    Then I got up, holding the ss of water, and walked out, telling Zora casually, "You should get some


    rest. And don''t skulk around like that again. It''s terrifying."


    She meekly followed me out of the room, heading to her own room as I went downstairs.


    As I descended the stairs, I noticed her door was tightly shut. I quickly took out a box of fever reducers


    from the first aid kit and tucked it into my clothes...

 Chapter 81

    Chapter 81


    After all that, I carefully returned the first aid kit to its original ce and, with a cup of water in hand, I


    walked back to my room.


    I was doing all this to avoid arousing Zora''s suspicion. If she were to find antipyretics in the kit, my


    exnation would crumble.


    When I left the room, I deliberately told her not to follow me. I was confident that she didn''t have the


    guts to confront me directly.


    I ced the cup of water down and swiftly fetched the medicine. A nce at the box made me chuckle.


    Fate seemed to be on my side. The medicine had already expired. I kept a few pills and flushed the


    rest down the drain.


    Returning to my bed, I tossed the medicine box into the bedside table drawer, just in case. I then


    hopped onto the bed and listened to the sounds outside. All was quiet.


    But I was certain that Zora wouldn''t let it go. She was bound to check the first aid kit to verify if I had


    lied.


    With a sigh, I thought, damn it! It felt like I was in a never-ending game of wits in my own house. Even


    soap operas didn''t have this kind of drama.


    I pulled the nket closer, muttered under my breath, andughed coldly, "Let''s see if you can stay up


    all night."


    But just as I was about to drift off, a sudden thought jolted me awake. If Zora was spying on me and


    decided to snitch to Jan, would they drug me into unconsciousness again?


    The more I thought about it, the more uneasy I felt. Especially now, with Probert back with me. If I were


    to be drugged again, the kids would be in danger.


    Just then, I heard a faint noise. Holding my breath, I strained my ears.


    There was no doubt about it. Zora was on the move again.


    As soon as the noise died down, I sprang up, fetched my hidden phone, and darted into the bathroom.


    I checked the surveince app on my phone and sure enough, I saw Zora sneakily heading to where


    the first aid kit was kept. After making sure I wasn''t up, she crouched down and began rifling through


    the kit.


    She spent quite some time before finally leaving everything as it was and slinking back to her room.


    The next day.


    When Jan woke up, he seemed fine, just like any other day. Seeing me still lyingzily in bed, he


    asked, "Why are you still in bed?"


    "You were running a feverst night, and I was up half the night. Now I have a headache," I mumbled.


    "My body just can''t handlete nights anymore!"


    "I''ll take the kids to school then."


    The moment I heard that, I shot up from the bed. "No, I''ll do it. I can''t ck off after just one day. What


    kind of example would that set for the kids?"


    I quickly got out of bed to freshen up, then headed to Probert''s room. He was getting dressed.


    After dropping him off at school, I didn''t rush back home. Instead, I checked the surveince app on my


    phone. As expected, Zora had tattled.


    I saw Jan, who was having breakfast, pause mid-bite. He looked up and asked, "Are you sure she


    was rummaging through things?"


    "Yes, I''m sure. She spent quite a while searching in the car. I don''t know what she was looking for,"


    Zora said earnestly. "I saw the whole thing."


    Jan sat back in his chair, eyes narrowing in thought.


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    My hand clenched involuntarily, sweat pooling in my palm. Damn Zora, she was hell-bent on making


    my life miserable. She was truly a puppet.


    Just then, ra walked out of her room, dressed in new clothes. She looked fresh andposed as


    she took a seat at the dining table.


    Zora shot her a dismissive nce, then pushed her breakfast towards her.


    Jan nced at Zora but didn''t continue the conversation, resuming his breakfast instead.


    I switched off the phone. With ra there, they wouldn''t continue discussing it.


    I sat in the car for a while, anxiously nibbling on my nails. Then I had a idea. I started the car and drove


    to a pharmacy nearby. I bought a few packs of medicine and leisurely drove home.


    What I didn''t expect was that Jan, who was supposed to have left for work, was still sitting in the


    living room.

 Chapter 82

    Chapter 82


    The moment I saw him, I paused, then asked with a concerned expression, "Why haven''t you left yet?


    Still not feeling well?"


    He nced up at me, a faint smile on his face. "Waiting for a call!"


    That''s when I noticed, on the coffee table in front of him, two identical ck smartphones.


    I instantly understood his intention. He was testing me. He had started to suspect me.


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    I walked over with the bag in my hand, put it on the coffee table, right next to those two phones.


    Then Izily sank into the couch and said, sounding weak, "Walking a few steps tires me out!"


    He nced at the bag I had put down. "What did you buy?" he asked.


    I smirked silently. Gotcha.


    "Just passed by a pharmacy and bought a few boxes of medicine. The ones at home have all expired!"


    I responded, yawning continuously, "Luckily, I found a box of Tylenol in your car. You had such a high


    feverst night, you can''t not take any medicine. Get yourself to a hospital for a checkup when you


    have some time, don''t be careless!"


    I didn''t say anything more.


    "It''s fine, just caught a cold. I''m much better today! No need for a hospital visit." Jan said carelessly,


    "I did feel pretty awfulst night."


    Not going? Well, keep digging your own grave then!


    I figured it must be his STD acting up.


    "You guys, always reluctant to go to the hospital. You can''t take a fever lightly, especially since your


    temperature was so highst night." I said honestly. I didn''t know if Zora had told him that his


    temperature had reached 102.5¡ãF.


    "Maybe it''s just a bad cold." he said without a care.


    "You should keep your distance from the kids, let Zora mark their cutlery separately. Kids have lower


    immunity! They also have to go to school, so don''t neglect this!" I said sincerely, feeling worried.


    "Alright! I''ll leave once I get the call! Let Zora sanitize the cutlery!" he deliberately picked up the two


    phones and fiddled with them.


    I didn''t even look at him. "Well, you wait then. I''m going upstairs to take a nap, didn''t sleep wellst


    night, my head''s buzzing!"


    I then got up, didn''t forget to remind him, "Let Zora put the medicine in the medicine boxter! Oh, and


    take some more Tylenol before you leave. If your feveres back, let me know. I''ll go with you to the


    doctor."


    "Let''s talk about that another time! I''ve got a lot on my te today!" After saying this, he put the phones


    back on the coffee table.


    I acted as if I didn''t see them, yawning and ignoring him as I went upstairs.


    Once I got back to my room and closed the door, I quickly turned on my surveince feed. I saw Zora


    Jan nced at Zora but didn''t answer her question. He quietly got up, picked up the two phones,


    and walked out.


    From behind, Zora called out, "You haven''t taken your medicine."


    Jan had already left the house.


    The sound of a car starting came from downstairs.


    I turned off the surveince and put the phone back in its hiding ce. Knowing Jan as I did, I knew


    that he had not dismissed his suspicions about me.


    Feeling dizzy, I had no energy left. But right now, I needed to get some sleep so that my mind would be


    sharp. I couldn''t afford to make any careless moves.


    I was awakened by Catherine''s call. She said arrangements to meet Marissa had been made.


    Upon hearing this, I immediately got up, excited. I met Catherine at the most reputable hair salon in


    Goldenvale Town. The hairstylist did a fantastic job; my lifeless blonde hair was transformed into a


    vibrant mane.


    They even added a bit of texture to my hair. Looking at myself in the mirror, I saw a sharp, confident


    woman. My short hair had a certain charm. It reminded me of my days in the business world. My


    confidence surged.


    It took Catherine a while toe to her senses. "Oh my god, this is the Aaliyah we know and love.


    You''re finally back!"


    Her words, ''You''re finally back'', made my eyes well up. Yes, I''d been asleep for too long. I almost lost


    myself in the haze. Since fate gave me a second chance, I had to make those who yed me pay.


    Looking at myself in the mirror, Iughed and said, "Damn! Do I look like a beggar?"


    Then I dragged Catherine to a boutique and picked out a limited edition, handcrafted designer outfit. I


    winced as I swiped my card to pay for it.


    But then Catherine snapped at me, "You''re such a penny-pincher. Are you saving money for your


    husband''s mistress?"


    That woke me up. Yes, I couldn''t continue to treat myself poorly!


    Money is there to be spent. If you don''t spend it, there''s no way for more toe in. Besides, I was


    about to meet my rival. I couldn''t lose in terms of spirit. I had to make a strong impression.

 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83


    This gathering was orchestrated by Catherine, and hosted by the chairwoman of Goldenvale Town''s


    Business Council. The attendees were the wives of Goldenvale Town''s business moguls, otherwise


    known as the town''s ''elite circle''.


    Such private gatherings weremon in this social circle.


    One could say it was a way to foster rtionships among the entrepreneurs, promoting a more


    harmonious business environment in Goldenvale Town. But in reality, it was more of a show-off fest,


    where theypared businesses, husbands, children, cars, houses, fashion, beauty, weight... anything


    that could bepared was unted.


    Such gatherings were often the envy of women outside the circle. Any whisper of an uing event


    would have them scrambling to get in, as if entering this ''circle'' would elevate them to Goldenvale


    Town''s so-called upper ss.


    I used to attend asionally, and to be honest, it was quite dull.


    The true colors of these women were rather unattractive. Cliques were formed, and they constantly


    tried to gain favor from those above while stepping on those below. Still, there were some women who


    seemed to thrive in this environment.


    I had been ill for a while and thus had been absent from this circle for some time.


    On the day of the gathering, I went to the salon for a facial. When I was done, Catherine was


    astounded, eximing how gorgeous I looked!


    Looking at myself in the mirror, my skin was glowing and healthy due to the makeup. The light-colored,


    fitted Chanel suit perfectly matched my style. I wore no jewelry, and the high-end, understated design


    was clearly not cheap.


    Catherine circled me, expressing her satisfaction andplimented me for a while, but didn''t leave.


    She chatted with the designer for a bit, emphasizing the importance of making ate entrance.


    The chairwoman of the Business Council was named Gevena. She was generous, extravagant, and


    always willing to lend a hand. But anyone with a keen eye would know that she gained more than she


    gave. These women, eager to win her favor, would go to great lengths to present her withvish gifts.


    But she was Catherine''s close friend, and she would lead today''s gathering. so I trusted her judgement


    and was happy to follow her lead.


    Just as I was about to doze off on the sofa in the salon''s VIP room, Gevena sent Catherine a message,


    "It''s time to make an entrance!"


    Catherine quickly woke me up, and we confidently stepped into the Illusion Paradiso Club.


    The ce was packed with morous women, a veritable army of societydies.


    We were probably thest to arrive. The attendees, already warmed up, were taken aback as we


    entered.


    Gevena, in particr, put on quite a show. Seeing us at the entrance, she let out an exaggerated gasp


    and quickly came over, "My goodness, Aaliyah, it''s been ages! I thought you weren''t going to show up!"


    Caught off guard by her warm wee, I felt grateful. Even though we were not that close, she had


    gone to great lengths to arrange this gathering for me.


    She gave me a bear hug and whispered in my ear, "Your mother-inw is here too! She''s over by the


    window."


    Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted Hazel by the window. She was chatting with a group of wealthy


    Marissa.


    Jan''s mother loved these kinds of events, and she was one of those people who reveled in them,


    despite the fact that there were rarely any women her age.


    Gevena let go of me and asked, "How have you been? I''ve been wondering why you haven''t shown


    your face at our gatheringstely! I had no idea you were sick!"


    She then stepped back to get a good look at me, "Let me look at you!"


    I smiled confidently and replied, "I''m fine! Death couldn''t take me yet!"


    "My goodness... You look like a new woman! You''ve managed to stay humble while radiating the


    elegance of luxury!" Gevena was certainly a smooth talker. She had set the stage for me, and all I had


    to do was y my part.


    "Yes, I feel reborn," I said sincerely.


    "Well said!"


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Gevena immediately ordered a few drinks and handed them to us. As the hostess, she called


    everyone''s attention, "Let me introduce my good friend, Aaliyah Wilburn! She is the founder of Medsafe


    Liyah Inc., Goldenvale Town''s leading medical equipmentpany, and a role model for women in


    business. She''s been ill recently but is now back in full swing. I propose a toast to Aaliyah''seback!


    Here''s to her oveing adversity and a bright future!"


    Her proposal was met with enthusiastic agreement, and everyone raised their sses.


    As we toasted, I noticed my mother-inw Hazel looking shocked as her gazended on me. Marissa,


    standing next to her, visibly stepped back, putting some distance between them.

 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84


    Catherine gave her a sidelong nce and murmured, "She is wearingst year''s style from Chanel,


    and it''s a bit dowdy. She is wearing this one for this asion to show her pride."


    I snorted, "Reputation and dignity are earned by her own, not supported by the clothes."


    Catherine praised me for what I said.


    I teased, ¡°Jan needs to update her wardrobe!¡±


    Catherine rolled her eyes and said, ¡°Nowadays, mistresses are really bold, and they dare to show up


    for such a grand asion.¡±


    I nudged Catherine with my elbow, ¡°I¡¯m here to catch up with old friends, so stop being mad and smile


    at me.¡±


    Catherine showed me a brilliant smile, although she muttered with disdain soon, ¡°If I wasn''t thinking of


    you, I''d give her a hard time.¡±


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    I smiled, adopting a polite look, and began mingling with Gevena, greeting a few people.


    I heard a lot of people talking about me and they said, ¡°Isn¡¯t that Mrs. Dawson from Medsafe Liyah


    Inc.? Why does she look so weak?¡±


    The speaker was probably a neer. Obviously, she''d seen me before.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear Gevena saying she¡¯s been ill?¡±


    ¡°I heard she was sent abroad for treatment.¡± The person lowered her voice to a whisper, ¡°I heard she


    almost died. But here she is.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense. Isn¡¯t she just fine?¡±


    Another woman retorted in a hushed tone, ¡°Her mother-inw said so. She imed she was on her


    deathbed a few months ago.¡±


    ¡°Keep your voice down. Her mother-inw is here too.¡± a chubby woman reminded the whisperer, ¡°We


    can''t afford to offend them. Mrs. Dawson is the founder of Medsafe Liyah Inc. She''s very close to the


    ¡°She seems rather low-key and quite modest.¡±


    ¡°She''s not modest. Her outfit may not have abel, but it¡¯s not cheap.¡±


    A woman in a silver Chanel dress approached and asked, ¡°Which one is her mother-inw?¡±


    ¡°There! The plump woman dressed up in dark green, covered in jewels.¡± Someone pointed out,


    ¡°They¡¯re totally different.¡±


    A tall, skinny woman said, ¡°Isn''t that her daughter-inw next to her? I heard her say so.¡±


    ¡°You need to pay more attention. Mrs. Dawson is her daughter-inw. Don''t mix them up.¡±


    The skinny woman was embarrassed to say, ¡°Maybe I heard wrong.¡±


    Catherine and I looked at each other and smiled. As Gevena was chatting with a fewdies, we found a


    quiet corner to sit down.


    As soon as we sat down, Mrs. Bradlee from Elixir Pharma Limited dragged Marissa over, who seemed


    rather reluctant.


    ¡°Aaliyah, it''s so good to see you again, and your return is truly a miracle.¡± Mrs. Bradlee gushed, ¡°I was


    wondering why I hadn¡¯t seen you for so long.¡±


    Mrs. Bradlee was Irving Bradlee¡¯s wife, a ssic case of a mistress being a hostess. Hence, she was


    always trying to remind everyone that she was the current hostess of Elixir Pharma Limited.


    She shed a sycophantic smile and introduced Marissa, ¡°This is my good friend, Marissa, a full-time


    housewife. She''s good at cooking and we live in the same neighborhood.¡±


    I nced at Marissa, who was also looking at me, and we shared a smile.


    Internally, I scoffed. Birds of a feather, these two.


    Marissa corrected Mrs. Bradlee, ¡°Mrs. Bradlee, we know each other. She¡¯s my senior.¡±


    She said I was her senior. That was ridiculous.


    Mrs. Bradlee looked surprised, ¡°You two know each other?¡±


    I confirmed, without mentioning how we knew each other, ¡°Yes, we¡¯ve known each other for many


    years.¡±


    Marissa, feigning sincerity, said, ¡°Aaliyah, it''s so good to see you here. I was thinking of asking you out


    sometime.¡±


    I smiled warmly, thinking to myself, "Why meet alone when we can meet here?" But I said, ¡°Yes. It''s a


    great asion to catch up.¡±


    ¡°It''s a surprise to bump into you here. I¡¯ve attended this event a few times but never saw you.¡± she


    implied that she was a part of this circle long ago.


    ¡°Yes, we haven¡¯t seen each other for years. I don¡¯t even know when you quit your job, get married, and


    have a child. It feels like a lifetime ago. When I saw these old friends just now, I found everything


    change.¡± Imented dramatically.


    ¡°Aaliyah, you haven''t changed at all. Apart from losing some weight, you''re still as stunning as ever.¡±


    Marissa began to tter me with her silver tongue.

 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85


    Mrs. Bradlee quickly took over the conversation, "Marissa, you may not know, but despite Mrs. Dawson


    being a full-time housewife now, she used to be a powerhouse in the business world, the founder of


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. Among all the housewives here, I admire Mrs. Dawson the most."


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    As she finished, an elegant woman sauntered over. Her loose-fitting dress could not hide her slightly


    protruding belly. She stood next to me with a sharp look in her eyes.


    She looked at Mrs. Bradlee and said, "Mrs. Bradlee, you are right. But let me rify, there''s a world of


    difference between one housewife and another. Very few can stand in the same league as Mrs.


    Dawson. It''s easy to tell the difference between a wife and a home wrecker. Some people just look


    shabby."


    Mrs. Bradlee was embarrassed at the insult, and so was Marissa.


    The one speaking was Irving¡¯s ex-wife¡¯s sister, Janice Makynzie.


    Irving''s ex-wife, Jta Makynzie, was a strong and hardworking woman who had nothing when she


    married Irving.


    Against her family''s wishes, she married Irving who was deemed a rebel. Her parents disowned her out


    of anger, but Jta married Irving regardless. They started from scratch, with Jta working as a


    nurse and Irving studying clinical pharmacy in college.


    Spotting a good opportunity, they started a clinic with a retired doctor. Jta worked tirelessly, and the


    clinic gradually attracted more patients.


    With enough funds, they opened arge pharmacy and their business took off. With Irving''s expertise,


    they established Elixir Pharma Limited.


    Just as Jta was beginning to enjoy their sess, a new group of staff joined their private hospital,


    including Olivia, who wouldter be Irving''s the other woman and Mrs. Bradlee now.


    Olivia''s charm and hard work quickly made her Jta''s right-hand woman.


    When Irving had surgery for hemorrhoids, Jta, heartbroken to see him suffer, couldn''t bring herself


    to change his dressings. Olivia stepped up to the te, bing Irving''s nurse during his recovery.


    But what Jta never expected was that while Irving recovered, Olivia managed to worm her way into


    his bed. Jta caught them in the act and was devastated. She swore to never back down for the


    sake of their daughter and refused to divorce Irving.


    However, when Olivia fell pregnant with Irving''s child and gave birth to a son, he grew to support her


    and divorce became inevitable.


    The divorce proceedings dragged on for four years. On the day of the final hearing, Jta was


    involved in a car ident absent-minded, and fell into aa since then.


    Irving, wanting to maintain a fa?ade of caring, continued to pay for Jta''s medical expenses even


    after their divorce.


    A yearter, Irving married Olivia, who then became Mrs. Bradlee.


    But Janice was no pushover, and she married a rising star in upper-ss society. It was said that even


    Irving dared not offend her.


    After Janice finished speaking, she nced dismissively at Marissa, who was standing next to me, and


    said, "Birds of a feather flock together. Homewreckers, the lot of you!"


    On hearing this, Marissa''s smile froze. She seemed awkward standing in front of me, exuding an air


    thatcked in grace and grandeur.


    The atmosphere became tense. The wise ones knew everything, while the clueless ones watched the


    show.


    Just then, Hazel walked over with a displeased look on her face, "Why are you here? Shouldn''t you be


    at home, resting..."


    Before she could finish, Geneva, a godsend, walked over with a tall woman and interjected, "I specially


    invited her, this distinguished guest. Hazel, you seem to be showing favoritism. You shouldn''t always


    bring your another daughter-inw out."

 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86


    As she finished, Hazel was embarrassed, while Catherine asked with a curious expression, "Another


    daughter-inw? Hazel, when does Jesper get hitched? Why not tell us?"


    Geneva, the best actress in town, looked at Catherine, her face full of confusion, "What? Do I


    misunderstand something?"


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Everyone exchanged nces. Geneva turned to Hazel, pointing at Marissa, "Isn''t this youngdy your


    daughter-inw?"


    Everyone was silent.


    Several familiar faces turned to Marissa, while Hazel''s expression changed faster than a chameleon.


    Seeing the attention on her, Hazel quickly waved her hands, "It''s a misunderstanding. She''s just my


    son Jan''s assistant."


    The room buzzed with gossip. They all gathered to look at Hazel.


    Janice stroked her belly andughed, "Hazel, you are ying favorites. You invite your son''s assistant


    to a private gathering instead of your daughter-inw. Are you grooming her for something?"


    The room broke into hushedughter, the meaning behind their looks clear.


    "What? Isn''t she already a full-time housewife? What''s there to groom?" someone chimed in, the room


    full of sharp minds ready to jump on any hint of drama.


    The conversation continued, "I heard the men from the Dawson family are all handsome and now


    they''re all running Medsafe Liyah Inc., so shouldn''t they be dating some high-profile socialite, not an


    assistant?"


    The speaker nced at Marissa, who was trying her best to maintain herposure. The insinuation


    was clear.


    While the room buzzed with spection, the underlying tension was palpable.


    This was the power of this group of people: whenever they got the chance, they made a big deal out of


    it.


    I calmly watched from the sidelines, trying to keep these people talking for a while.


    Hazel, desperate to clear the air, exined, "You''ve got it all wrong! We''re just good friends, and her


    child goes to the same school as my grandson, so we often pick them up together."


    "Good friends?" They turned to Marissa, each person interpreting the phrase in their own way,


    especially given Hazel''s tone earlier.


    Marissa, clearly flustered, quickly added, "You''ve all misunderstood. Hazel and I are indeed close. I


    used to be Aaliyah''s private secretary. When Aaliyah fell ill, she asked me to assist Mr. Dawson in


    running Medsafe Liyah Inc., so I became his assistant for a while. That''s why I''m so familiar with the


    Dawson family."


    She turned to me for support, "Aaliyah knows this better than anyone."


    I was always enjoying the show they yed. Marissa''s attempt to drag me into the fray was clever, but


    before I could say anything, Janice chimed in with a sarcastic remark, "Mrs. Dawson, you better be


    careful. Don''t make the same mistake my sister did. I heard she has been getting close to the Dawson


    family behind your back. You better watch out."


    I thought, "I really admire Janice because she has the guts to say anything. She didn''t save face with


    Marissa. I suspect she should know something."


    Marissa was taken aback and looked at Janice, "I''m new here, and please bear with me if I''m wrong.


    But you shouldn''t speak like that."


    Janice scoffed, "Rules are rules, regardless of seniority."


    I merely smiled, sidestepping the issue, "You''re all overthinking it. This is how I get along with Hazel.


    She''s always worried about me, which is why she''s upset I came here today without telling her."


    Hazel promptly chimed in, "d you understand."


    The conversation could''ve ended there, but Hazel, always the drama queen, continued...

 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87


    "That''s how I get along with Aaliyah. If she steps out of line, I don''t hesitate to scold her. Just today, she


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    insisted on bringing Marissa along, saying she is eager to get a taste of high society. Having once


    worked for our family, and with our decent rapport, I decided to let her tag along."


    I almost broke intoughter. Hazel knew how to stir up trouble. She and Marissa weren''t on the best of


    terms.


    Because she just went out of her way to belittle Marissa, implying she had never been exposed to the


    finer things in life.


    And just after Marissa told me that she had been here before but never saw me, Hazel revealed that it


    was Marissa who was keen oning here to rub shoulders with the elite.


    It was like a p in her face.


    Some people changed their attitude fast, just like Mrs. Bradlee. Her gaze now filled with disdain, she


    shot Marissa a disgruntled look. "That''s your fault. You said you wanted to meet me before, and you


    around? How can anyone just barge into our circle? It''s boring."


    Her words were like a p on Marissa''s already swollen face. She was visibly shaken.


    Those on the sidelines knew everything, their faces full of scorn upon realizing Marissa was just trying


    to blend in.


    Gevena tried to defuse the situation. "Come on,dies! We''re here to bond, not to bicker. Let''s not ruin


    the mood with all this negativity. We''re all affluent here, and why not keep it ssy? Let''s forget all


    about it."


    With that, everyone dispersed, but Gevena''s words were a masterstroke, subtly belittling Marissa.


    Marissa awkwardly smiled at me, visibly ufortable. "Ms. Aaliyah, I..."


    I hushed her, patting her shoulder encouragingly, "Don''t worry about it. It''s nothing."


    But Catherine wasn''t as forgiving and she nced at Marissa and teasingly said, "Marissa. You are


    stupid to use that excuse? How dare you say that Hazel is your mother-inw? Which of her sons is


    your husband? The oldest or the youngest? As everyone knows, Aaliyah is the wife of her second son.


    Do you want to be a mistress?"


    Marissa was awkward.


    "Stop, Catherine!" I cut her off, "We were supposed to let this go."


    "Hazel is blessed. Having Aaliyah as a daughter-inw is a boon to the Dawson family. No wonder Mr.


    Dawson is so indulgent towards Aaliyah." Someone chimed in, trying to curry favor with me, "Having


    Aaliyah in the Dawson family is like a double assurance."


    Catherine seized the opportunity and said, "Of course! Aaliyah has always been exceptional, born into


    a wealthy family and then she topped it off by making a fortune in her business. She''s on her way to


    bing the richest woman in Silverdale City. Mr. Dawson''s perceptiveness has paid off. Do you know


    the lengths he went to win Aaliyah over?"


    Thedies leaned in, their curiosity piqued.


    I noticed Marissa''s face turning pale.


    Catherine left them hanging, "Want to hear?"


    "Yes, tell us!" Someone asked.


    "Follow me!" Catherine led a group over to the couches to share the juicy gossip.


    The atmosphere turned tense. Marissa didn''t join them, obviously uninterested in hearing about how


    Jan won me over.


    I beckoned her over, "Come here."


    She forced a smile and came over, clearly ufortable.


    She must be regretting unting her rtionship with Hazel after barging into my marriage.


    Perhaps she didn''t anticipate Jan would stop my medication, giving me another shot at life.


    Suppressing my anger, I put on a friendly face, "Don''t mind them. It would be good if you came more


    often. By the way, what does your husband do?"

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88


    It may be that I asked too suddenly, or that it never even urred to her that I would pursue her with


    this question at this time, and her eyes were full with fluster as she stuttered out, "He... he''s an


    entrepreneur. Family business."


    "Oh? What line?" I wasn''t about to drop the subject.


    "Construction!" She said vaguely.


    "With the development happening in Goldenvale Town, construction must be a booming business."


    "It''s alright, I guess."


    I chuckled lightly as I said, "You''ve always been good at seizing opportunities, Marissa. That''s


    something I admire about you."


    "Let''s just call it fate. Nothing as exciting as your life." Marissa mumbled under her breath.


    Iughed, "Exciting, you think? I don''t see it that way. I truly admire those who make big things happen


    quietly."


    Marissa didn''t pick up the conversation.


    "I was surprised when you left Medsafe Liyah Inc. Such a pity." I sighed, "After bumping into you at the


    mall the other day, I asked Jan why you suddenly quit and why he didn''t try to keep you. And he


    said, ¡®Every departure is the right one. Medsafe Liyah Inc. has seen too many peoplee and go.


    Nothing to regret¡¯. But I think it''s a pity. You''ve been at Medsafe Liyah Inc. for so long, that you know


    the ins and outs. There must be a reason for your departure. Was it really because of pregnancy?"


    Marissa clenched her hands andughed, "Women always have to return to family in the end, don''t


    they? Just like you did."


    I smiled confidently, "True, but not quite. I feel choosing to be a housewife was a mistake."


    This piqued Marissa''s curiosity, and her interest was evident.


    "Why do you feel that way?" she asked.


    "Being a housewife is the beginning of losing oneself. Sometimes I feel I wouldn''t be idle and


    seemingly secure but fraught with potential dangers if I hadn''t opted out. See this illness of mine, it''s


    have made it back."


    Marissa gave an awkwardugh and said, "You''re already sessful, and how can you say you''ve lost


    yourself? After all, returning to the family is a woman''s ultimate destination."


    I replied with a pointed remark, "But some opportunities once lost, lose their value too. As for me... it


    depends on whether I want to take on the challenge."


    I left that statement hanging for her to ponder and to send a message to Jan.


    Marissa eximed, clearly envious, "Mr. Dawson treats you considerately."


    "Who knows? Feelings can change. But my value doese in handy. If I lose my value, who knows


    what might happen? At least I''m not one to lose my value. I guess it''s about adapting."


    I said this without even looking at her. I wanted her to know that one must have self-awareness.


    Being as smart as she is, I was sure she got the hint.


    It seemed like my n for the day worked. Once the seeds of doubt were sown, they grew rapidly.


    After saying that, I excused myself due to a supposed health concern. Before leaving, Gevena added


    me to a group chat named "Top-notch Hotshots".


    I was puzzled and looked at Gevena, "What does this mean?"


    She exchanged a nce with Catherine andughed, "It''s a group for wealthydies."


    I nced at Marissa who was still sitting in a corner, "Is she in it too?"


    "She has to be! If she''s not, we''ll add her soon." Catherine stated matter-of-factly, "You said you


    couldn''t find her on WhatsApp, right?"


    "Ok." I instantly understood Catherine¡¯s intention. Indeed, I had been trying to connect with Marissa on


    WhatsApp.


    Somehow, I felt that AzureEnchantress, the contact on Jan''s phone, was intriguing.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    As we exchanged pleasantries and I was about to leave, Marissa followed me into the elevator.


    "Not staying for more fun?" I asked.


    "No, I worry about leaving my child alone at home." She answered casually, then suddenly looked at


    me as if she shouldn''t have told me that, quickly adding, "My husband is here to pick me up."


    I acted indifferent.


    But when I stepped out of the club, I understood that she was challenging me again.


    And she was certainly overestimating herself.

 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89


    A car was parked outside the club, and Jan was leaning against it, puffing away on a cigarette.


    At a nce, it was clear he was waiting for someone. But I knew damn well it wasn''t me he was waiting


    for because there was no way he could know I was attending this party.


    Jan felt nervous the moment he saw us walking out together, but recovered immediately. He put out


    his cigarette and strode over to me, took my purse from my hand, and wrapped his arm around me,


    "Tired?"


    Catherine muttered with annoyance, "Stop showing off. Who are you trying to impress?"


    I leaned into Jan and asked him, "Are you here to pick me up?"


    He looked at me with affection as he replied, "Who else would I be here for?"


    "Well, I don''t recall informing you of my ns. Do you have some kind of psychic ability, knowing where


    I am at all times?" I teased him.


    As he led me towards his car, he exined, "I was having dinner with Irving. He mentioned that his wife


    was hosting a party at Illusion Paradiso. Before dinner, I called home and Zora said you were out. After


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    dinner, I called home again and you were still out. I figured you might be here, so I thought I''d surprise


    you."


    He chuckled, "And I was right, wasn''t I?"


    His reasoning was sound. If I didn''t know him better, I might have believed him.


    When we reached his car, he let go of me and stared at me appreciatively. He tousled my hair and


    said, "I never realized how good you look with short hair. It suits you well. I guess I had the wrong idea


    about it before."


    I held his hand still, "Your mother is here too. Should we wait for her?"


    "No need. She''s got her ns. And besides, she''s not one to leave a party early," Jan replied, his


    gaze filled with a mix of wonder and desire.


    It was a natural desire; perhaps he hadn''t anticipated that I would look so radiant. In truth, I was barely


    holding it.


    Catherine got into her car, rolled down the window, and shouted to me, "I''m stuffed with all the lovey-


    dovey stuff. I''m leaving."


    I turned my attention to Marissa as if I had just noticed her. She stood there, stock-still, watching Jan


    and me interact.


    "Marissa, how are you getting home?" I asked her, feigning concern. I was grateful for the ride she had


    arranged for me.


    I looked up at Jan and suggested, "Maybe we could drop Marissa off on our way?"


    "Sure," he said. Then, looking at Marissa, he asked casually, "Where do you live?"


    Marissa slowly approached us, her face pale, and gave her address. To my surprise, Jan said tly,


    "That''s out of our way. It would be best for you to take a cab, Ms. Marissa. Otherwise, we''ll all be


    dyed."


    His words were unambiguous, showing no sympathy or consideration. What the hell was he thinking?


    They had their baby and he was acting all serious like this.


    Marissa was upset and she gripped her purse.


    Jan seemed not to notice. He turned to me and said, "Our kids have been waiting long enough. I''m


    worried about them."


    He had shown his indifference, and I couldn''t help but feel happy.


    I turned to Marissa, who looked crushed and offered a sympathetic smile, "Sorry, Marissa. I don''t want


    the kids to worry. I can''t dy any longer."


    Marissa quickly waved her hand, "It''s okay, and I''ve called a cab."


    "We''ll be going then," I waved back at her and got into the car. Jan buckled my seatbelt for me and


    closed the door, not looking at Marissa once. He then got into the car and we drove off.


    In the rear-view mirror, I saw Marissa standing there, watching our car fade into the distance. Suddenly,


    she threw her purse on the ground with a frustrated thud.


    I almost burst outughing, thinking to myself, "Don''t worry. I''ve got a bigger surprise for you."

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90


    These past few days, Jan had been acting out of character,ing home on the dot, and even


    bringing Monique home for the weekend. We had a rare family reunion, which left me with mixed


    feelings. Watching our three children gambol around the house, I daydreamed about how perfect things


    would be if nothing had changed.


    Sometimes, I wish this was all just a nightmare, but I knew, there was no going back.


    One more thing that concerned me was Jan. I was convinced he had contracted some sexually


    transmitted diseases.


    He had been having unexined feverstely, although some over-the-counter fever reducers would


    do the trick. Despite my lip-born insistent pleas for him to see a doctor, I ended up amodating his


    wishes and just let it be.


    I used his fevers as an excuse to to prevent Jan from getting too close to our children. Monique had


    always been aloof with me. Despite my attempts to get closer to her, she remained indifferent. And


    whenever I asked her about the reason, she would retort with a "You''re so annoying," or im that it


    was her personal business. She seemed to be closer to Zora than to me, which left me feeling helpless


    and frustrated. But when I suggested a summer trip to Silverdale City, she seemed enthusiastic.


    The Rhylee sisters seemed to be getting along well these days, at least on the surface. Ever since Zora


    discovered me rummaging through the car in the middle of the night, I sensed that Jan still had his


    suspicions about me. He continued to test me, leaving his two phones within my sight, but I pretended


    not to see them,pletely ignoring them. Jan even asked me to hand him his phone, and I did so


    without hesitation.


    Things resumed their usual course after Monique returned to school. Then, Jan called to say he was


    going on a business trip to Amethyst Acres. I knew very well that he was probably going to see


    Marissa. I was secretly thrilled at this, thinking it was about time he got closer to Marissa. I nagged him


    like a devoted wife, reminding him to be safe, avoid too much alcohol, get plenty of rest, and not stay


    upte, given that his cold hadn''tpletely cleared up.


    My delight was palpable. After all, the big surprise I had prepared for Marissa had finally been


    delivered.


    I called Logan to verify, and sure enough, the people tailing Jan reported that he had gone to


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Marissa''s neighborhood. And then I had him ry the message to Maddox in a secret way.


    That evening, while I was picking up Probert, Marissa took the initiative to greet me. She looked radiant


    and full of energy, like a vibrant flower nourished by fertilizer.


    It was a show-off move. I yed along and asked, "You look so well today. What''s the secret?"


    Unable to hide her smug expression, she responded, "My husband is back from his trip."


    "Why doesn''t hee with you to pick up your kid?" I asked, ying along.


    "I refused him to pick up the kid because he needs to rest after his trip," Marissa said, looking satisfied.


    "He''s been sozy since he got back, just staying in bed."


    "It feels so good. You should take good care of him." I teased, adding, "You''re such a good wife. You''re


    definitely cut out to be a strategist. It''s a waste that you''re not working full-time."


    "I can''t help it because my husband wants me to prepare for a second child, and I''m worried about


    that." She said she was worried, but she looked pleased. "He insists on having a daughter. Ms. Aaliyah,


    what do you think?"


    "Go for it. Having a girl is different. You should take advantage of your ability and go for it." I


    encouraged, but I thought, "You want a second child? You better think twice."


    "That''s true. Then I''ll take your advice, and try for a daughter." Marissa said with a smile.


    "You should hurry." I urged.


    Sheughed even more, her eyes filled with deep implications when she looked at me. I knew what she


    was thinking that I was a fool, but that was what I wanted. Thestugh would be on me.


    I watched her happily take her kid away, not forgetting to wave at me from afar. I smiled. I pulled out my


    phone and dialed Catherine, giving her a few instructions.


    As she listened, Catherine chuckled a couple of times and responded, "No problem."

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91


    My car was barely in the driveway when my mother-inw, Hazel, rang me, asking why her son''s


    phone was off. I told her the truth that he was out of town for work. Then Hazel promptly hung up.


    I couldn''t help but smirk. Catherine was proving to be quite the efficient friend.


    During dinner, Catherine called again. I put her on hold and retreated to my room to return her call via


    video chat. Catherine wasughing uproariously as she started, "It''s happening! They''re at each other''s


    throats."


    "That is fast," I admitted, taken aback. I''d anticipated some kind of conflict, but I didn''t think it would


    happen so quickly.


    "These two are like oil and water, and they''re hitting hard." Catherine continued, barely stifling her


    "A video? How''d you get that?" I was surprised and asked.


    "Know thy enemy, know thyself," Catherine replied smugly. "You underestimate Logan and his team.


    They had someone move into the apartment next to Marissa''s. We''ve got all the intel."


    "Impressive," I acknowledged, wondering how much this operation was going to cost me.


    Catherine justughed. "Wait until you see what we''ve got."


    The video chat flickered off and shortly after, a video popped up on my screen. My meddlesome


    mother-inw, Hazel, could be seen storming out of an elevator and making a beeline for Marissa''s


    apartment. Her posture was all aggression.


    When she reached the door, she didn''t hesitate, pounding on it so hard that the noise echoed down the


    hallway.


    A woman''s voice from inside the apartment asked, "Who is it?"


    Actually, the inquiry was too disingenuous because she could see who it was from the door mirror


    video inside.


    "Open the door!" Hazel ordered.


    After a while, the door opened, and Marissa was wearing an apron and a calm smile. However, she


    was blocking the doorway and clearly had no intention of letting Hazel inside. "Mom! Why are you


    here?"


    I couldn''t help but wince at her call of "mom", and her tone was so much sweeter than mine.


    "I need to talk to Jan," Hazel dered coldly.


    Marissa smiled politely, "Mom, I already told you, he''s not here."


    Hazel was angry when she heard this. She shoved Marissa aside, trying to get in, but Marissa blocked


    her path again. "Mom, what are you doing? He''s really not here, you should ask Aaliyah."


    "Get away. I''m looking for my son, and what do you think I''m doing?" Hazel retorted, trying to push past


    Marissa again. "Why should I ask her?"


    Marissa stepped back, blocking the doorway with her arm. "Mom! Jan isn''t here."


    "This is the Dawson''s property. How dare you keep me out?" Hazel retorted, her anger boiling over.


    "Don''t call me Mom, you''re not worthy of that title."


    Marissa was angry for a moment, but she quicklyposed herself and put on a brilliant smile. "Mom,


    why are you saying such hurtful things? Jan isn''t here. If you have anything to say, you can tell me


    and I will pass it on to him."


    "Since when do I need to pass messages to my son through you? You''re overestimating your


    importance. Even Aaliyah wouldn''t dare to talk to me like this. Let me tell you something, Marissa,


    you''re nobody. Who do you think you are, and how dare you block my way? Get away! I''m telling you


    This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    for thest time."


    "Mom..."


    "I told you, don''t call me Mom!" Hazel was livid, shouting, "Jan, Get out."


    Her yelling was so loud it drew the attention of the neighbors, one of whom opened their door to take a


    peek at themotion.


    Marissa was furious. "Mrs. Dawson, what are you doing? I''ve told you he''s not here. You''re disturbing


    the peace. Do you think that''s eptable?"


    Marissa''s criticism only seemed to fuel Hazel''s anger. She shoved Marissa again, causing her to


    stumble. Like a rampaging lioness, Hazel was going to step inside.

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92


    Marissa nted her feet firmly, fire ring in her eyes as she yelled, ¡°What the hell do you want?¡±


    Her shout had been so loud that a child''s cry echoed from inside the house. Soon after, another roar of


    anger sounded, ¡°What are you trying to do? Can''t I get a moment''s peace?¡±


    Then, Jan''s figure appeared in the frame. I chuckled to myself, thinking, ¡°he was there after all.¡±


    The moment Jan stepped out, Hazel''s fury ignited. Without any warning, she pped Marissa hard


    on the face. ¡°You slut, didn''t you say he wasn''t here? You dare to lie to me. You''ve overstepped your


    boundaries.¡±


    Stunned by the p, Marissa clutched her face, staring at Jan in shock. Upon seeing this, Jan''s


    anger red instantly. He roared, ¡°Mom, what the hell are you doing?¡±


    ¡°What do you think? This bitch was stopping me and you dare to say you didn''t hear? Who does she


    think she is, daring to get in my way?¡± Hazel''s fiery temper from her days in the old neighborhood


    red up. She stood with her hands on her hips, ring at her son, ¡°Are you trying to be like her?


    Aaliyah has never treated me like this. You''ve changed, even shouting at me.¡±


    Perhaps encouraged by Jan''s defense, Marissa pushed Jan aside and took a step forward,


    staring down Hazel and saying, ¡°Let me tell you, your son asked me to tell you he''s not here. Don''t


    mention Aaliyah in front of me. If you think she''s so great, go find her. Don''t forget, the Dawson family


    owes its sess to me. If I hadn''t stepped in, Medsafe Liyah Inc. would have fallen¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, Jan raised his hand and pped her. ¡°Shut up!¡±


    Marissa''s words didn''t finish, her eyes wide with shock as she looked at the furious Jan, her eyes


    filling with tears.


    Hazel was pleased with this and said, ¡°She deserves it! She''s getting too big for her boots, even daring


    to say that. You really have the nerve to say, Medsafe¡­¡±


    ¡°Mom!¡± Jan quickly cut her off. ¡°I want both of you to shut up!¡±


    Marissa saw Jan stopping Hazel again and, without a second thought, rushed forward. She no


    longer cared about maintaining her dignified elegance. She stretched her neck and yelled at Hazel,


    ¡°Yes, Aaliyah is great, but so what? You''re such a money pit, and even a gold mine would be emptied


    by you. All you want is money and then to show off. What else can you do?¡±


    Hazel was left speechless, staring at Marissa with her mouth agape.


    Marissa wasn''t done. She turned to re at Jan, ¡°And you Jan, who gives you the right to hit me?


    Have you used me up and now you''re ready to get rid of me?¡±


    She snapped at Jan, her pointed questions making him flinch.


    Then she touched her face. ¡°How dare you hit me? I helped you acquire Medsafe Liyah Inc., gave birth


    to a son for your family, and now you want to get rid of me, just like you did with Aaliyah? No way¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, an astonishing scene unfolded. Jan suddenly raised his foot and kicked


    Marissa out of the way. There was a thud, but it was unclear where shended.


    Jan quickly walked to the door, grabbed the handle, and mmed it shut. All that was left in the


    frame was the door and the heart-wrenching cries of a child.


    Although the screen froze, the sounds of shouting and crying could be heard. At first, there were angry


    shouts, then the sounds of a fight, and the child''s cries. The cacophony filled my ears, but it gradually


    quieted down. The situation inside could only be imagined.


    I listened with interest, feeling no guilt.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    After the screen went ck, Catherine called me on video chat. I quickly answered, her grinning face


    filling the screen. Sheughed gleefully as she asked me, ¡°How was that? Feel better?¡±


    ¡°Much better.¡± I was moved by her excitement, I grinned and asked, ¡°How did you manage that?¡±


    Catherine chuckled and said, ¡°I simply yed into her weaknesses. That''s Hazel''s greed. I dropped a


    hint in the "Top-notch Hotshots" group chat and she fell for it.¡±


    ¡°What hint?¡± I asked.

 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93


    I was eyeing Catherine, waiting for her to spill the beans on the message she had sent, which had sent


    Hazel into a frenzy, looking for her son to such an extent that she had a full-blown argument with


    Marissa. It was a dramatic case of a mother-inw and daughter-inw rtionship gone sour.


    To be honest, I found the whole scenario quite amusing. This was precisely the kind of chaos I had


    been hoping for. Once the catfight began, the hatred would naturally spread. It was like a soap opera in


    the making.


    When I asked Catherine about it, she didn¡¯t tell me directly and kept me guessing, "Don''t you check the


    group chat?"


    "Which group chat?" I asked, confused.


    Catherine rolled her eyes, "The one we joined during thest social gathering, the one filled with rich,


    high-societydies! That chat group is a gold mine, you should keep an eye on it. It''s full of juicy gossip


    and potential opportunities to seize."


    I immediately grasped the significance of that group chat.


    Catherine chuckled, shing her pearly whites, "I just dropped a message in the group: The Starry


    Night of the Green Mango Awards will be held on a cruise ship, with entry tickets starting at fifty


    thousand. All the high-enddies in the state are scrambling for them, and they''re almost sold out. It''s


    an exclusive gathering of the cream of the crop of the wealthy!"


    I burst outughing, "You truly understand Hazel. No wonder she''s so anxious, not even caring about


    her well-behaved grandson. It''s all because Marissa got in her way. The Green Mango Oscar


    Awards...you''re quite the storyteller!"


    Catherine quickly defended herself, "It''s a real event! These ceremonies rely on the sponsorships of


    these wealthydies. So, the fifty-thousand entry ticket is just pocket change for them. The most


    exclusive ones even go into hundreds of thousands of dors, and they''re all sold out. I just used it as


    bait."


    I absolutely believed her. After all, Catherine was an insider, she knew the ins and outs of this circle.


    "Remember these two key phrases, ''almost sold out'' and ''all the wealthydies of this city''. How could


    she not go?" Catherine said,ughing, "Of course, she''d ask Jan for money. It''s quite urgent."


    "Yes, and she''s afraid of being kicked out of this exclusive circle." I sighed, "But that child is poor."


    Catherine looked disgusted and said, "Don''t be ridiculous! Don''t y the saint, remember, like mother,


    like son. Since you pity him, can you adopt him? I bet he''s a wolf in sheep''s clothing. Marissa just


    wants to live off her son''s achievements. You should be worried about your children. How has Jan


    been treating them? Does he care about them? Does he ever ask about them?"


    Though her words were harsh, they were nheless true.


    Jan had often taken Evan on fun outings, while my children were sent off to boarding school and


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    treated harshly, kept away from their mother.


    If something were to happen to me, they would surely suffer. A wave of resentment washed over me,


    "Indeed, my children would be worse off."


    "Allie, remember, do not view the world through rose-tinted sses. Being kind-hearted is good, but


    you need to know your limits. Preaching kindness to a bunch of devils makes you a fool, and you''ll be


    the one to meet an untimely end. It''s survival of the fittest, understand?"


    "Let''s begin their journey to ruin then!" I stated, steeling myself.


    "What''s your next move?" Catherine asked, her tone serious.


    "Now that the mess in his family has been stir up, we can''t just sit around waiting." I said confidently, "I


    want to... short sell Medsafe Liyah Inc.!"

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94


    Catherine''s eyes lit up with excitement, "Right, I''ve been waiting for you to call the shots. It''s about time


    we made a move. How do you want to proceed?"


    "First, I need to talk to mywyer." I truly had a heap of questions that needed professional legal


    advice.


    "When would you like to do that? I can arrange it for you."


    "The sooner, the better." I dered without hesitation. "After the meeting, I need to head back to


    Silverdale City."


    By Tuesday, Catherine had arranged a private meeting at a small, upscale club with thewyer I


    wanted to consult. For some reason, as soon as I stepped into the club, I felt a pair of eyes boring into


    me. But despite my cautious scanning of the surroundings, I couldn''t pinpoint anything unusual. This


    left me feeling inexplicably uneasy.


    When I reached the reserved room, Catherine was already there, casually chatting with a young man.


    That was just the way she was. She waspletely outgoing and capable of striking up a conversation


    with anyone.


    The man in front of me was in his thirties, with bushy eyebrows, a square jaw, and a pair of thin-rimmed


    sses perched on his nose. His eyes were bright and steady, giving an overall impression of quiet


    confidence. He seemed like the kind of person you could trust.


    As I walked in, both of them stood up. Catherine introduced us, "Aaliyah, founder of Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    Meet Elbert from Goldman Legal Firm."


    "Mr. Elbert!" I extended my hand and said, "Nice to meet you!"


    "It''s my pleasure. I am at your service." Elbert replied, his smile revealing a gentle sense.


    As we sat down, I gave Catherine a surprised look andmented, "I don''t expect him to be so


    young."


    "Don''t let his age fool you. Mr. Elbert is a well-known legal figure in Goldenvale Town. If you have any


    questions, feel free to ask. He''s reliable." Catherine added, in case I had any reservations.


    "Let''s get down to business then." I put down my bag and turned to Mr. Elbert.


    "You can skip the preliminaries. I''ve already briefed him, so get straight to the point," Catherine


    suggested, always considerate and not wanting me to repeat the painful details.


    "You aim to reim your property swiftly, leaving the other party with nothing?" Elbert asked, getting


    right to the point.


    I looked at Elbert and shook my head, "Not just leaving them with nothing. I want every member of the


    Dawson family involved to face the full force of thew. And..." I paused, then sat up straighter and


    added, "I might need to y a little dirty."


    Mr. Elbert simply smiled in response. Taking his silence as approval, I shared some of my not-so-


    polished ideas with him and sought his opinion on how to proceed without breaking thew, "I don''t


    want to reim everything, only to end up in a morass of legal trouble. I have three young children. I


    can''t risk their future," I said sincerely.


    In truth, my courage stemmed from wanting to secure a better future for my children.


    "I understand." Elbert looked at me with a deep gaze, "However, I must tell you that your current


    situation is not promising. Based on the information I have, all the evidence is against you. You might


    be the one left with nothing."


    "What do you mean?" I was taken aback, furrowing my brow at Elbert, and asked, "Jan cheated on


    me, fathered a child outside our marriage, tried to poison me, and took over mypany. How could I


    end up with nothing?"


    His words were a tough pill to swallow.


    Elbert looked at me seriously, "ording to the documents I''ve obtained, Jan has a change of


    ownership authorization for Medsafe Liyah Inc. that bears your signature and stamp. It has already


    been announced and approved at a shareholders'' meeting."


    Taken aback, I quickly responded, "I never signed such an agreement."


    Unhurriedly, Elbert presented me with a photocopy of the change of ownership document, "Here it is.


    You might want to take a look."Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95


    In disbelief, I stared at Elbert, reaching out to grab the document he handed me, and couldn¡¯t wait to


    start reading it.


    After I thoroughly read the document, I felt like I was blown away. It was an unfair deal in which I had


    unconditionally transferred Medsafe Liyah Inc. to Jan''s name and dered that Jan would have


    full authority over thepany''s affairs from that day on.


    Feeling helpless, I turned my gaze to Mr. Elbert.


    "This agreement has made you lose all your ownership of Medsafe Liyah Inc. In other words, you no


    longer have any say in thepany. You have fully agreed to gift the management rights and shares to


    Jan. Besides, based on this agreement, the legal representative of Medsafe Liyah Inc. has been


    changed to Jan." Elbert didn''t mince his words. "Moreover, all your properties and other fixed assets


    are now mortgaged to the bank, and the procedures were all signed by you. This means... you won''t


    get any property!"


    I shook my head desperately. "No, I didn''t sign this document!"


    But when I checked the signature carefully, it was smooth and in one stroke. It was indeed my


    signature, not a fake one!


    "This is impossible! How could this happen? No, it¡¯s impossible! I don''t remember signing any of these


    documents!" I nced helplessly at Catherine, trying to prove my words were true. "I didn''t sign them.


    But this... this handwriting is indeed mine."


    Catherine was bewildered. "What do you mean? How could it be your handwriting there if you didn¡¯t


    sign them?"


    "Jan!" I gritted my teeth and yelled out the name.


    After all these years of deep affection, I didn''t even realize since when our souls had been apart. He


    had set me up so perfectly. I loved him to the bone, bore his children, and helped the Dawson family


    rise from poverty. How could he treat me like this?


    My hand holding the document started to tremble uncontrobly, and anger burned in my chest,


    threatening to consume me. I held back my tears andughed out of anger. "Jan is a cunning fox. I


    thought he just wanted to have a big shake-up in thepany by kicking out my people, but it turned


    out that he had taken away everything I had without me knowing! So, now I''m the one who has


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    nothing!"


    Catherine was also fuming. "What a bastard! He is a wolf in sheep''s clothing. He even plotted against


    his own wife like this!"


    "And¡­" I looked at Elbert, feeling a bit difficult to say, but at this moment, I couldn''t care less. "I suspect


    he wants tomit insurance fraud. He poisoned me, not just to steal mypany. I found arge


    insurance policy in the safe, covering idents and serious illnesses. That means, no matter how I die,


    he will receive argepensation."


    My words made even Mr. Elbert pause.


    The corner of his mouth twitched as if he wanted tofort me, but he only heaved a sigh.


    We all fell silent, making things a little awkward and tense.


    Finally, Elbert said, "Leave this to me! I will do my best to secure your interests. However, we need to


    n carefully and use some tactics. Do you have any ideas? We can discuss it together!"


    I gave a sarcastic smile. Ideas? I''m afraid I only had one option.


    "Short sell Medsafe Liyah Inc.!" I dered with my eyes turning red in anger. "I can''t let him have it his


    way!"


    "It''s a big risk." Elbert leaned on the sofa, scrutinizing me. "And it''s very likely to vite thew."


    "Even if it''s risky, I have to give it a shot!" I replied without hesitation.


    "You want to undermine Jan?" Elbert looked at me with interest, his eyes deepening.


    "Yes!" I confirmed.


    "Then you need a lot of capital to back you up!" Elbert stroked his chin, "Only when the stock price falls


    to a certain level that Jan might sell. But other shareholders won''t just sit back and watch. Your risk


    will be too great once the capital chain is broken!"


    Elbert was right, which was why I came to consult him regarding legal matters. This was my biggest


    concern. If anything went wrong, not only would I fail to reim Medsafe Liyah Inc., but I might also


    face total ruin.


    But what could I do? This was the only way to get Medsafe Liyah Inc. back.


    Suddenly, I figured out something¡­

 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96


    I abruptly stood up, my eyes darting between Catherine and Elbert. "I get it now. I know why Jan


    suddenly stopped drugging me!"


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Catherine immediately pounced on this. "What do you mean? Is there another reason?"


    "Jan stopped drugging me, allowing me to drag out an ignoble existence because he has also


    anticipated this oue. If I had died, my parents would undoubtedly have raised objections against


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. Thatpany is the painstaking effort of the Wilburn family, They have built it on


    their entire life savings. They wouldn''t let it go easily."


    Catherine, vigorously nodding, agreed. "Of course! I wouldn''t believe it either!"


    "Moreover, if the old manor of our family in Silverdale City is relocated, its value could match or even


    exceed that of several or up to ten Medsafe Liyah Inc.. Coupled with shares in VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals, Jan would be in a precarious position." My thoughts were bing clearer.


    "He must have realized that the only way the Wilburn family could uncover his scheme would be to


    shortsell Medsafe Liyah Inc. and reim their ownership. On the contrary, if I''m alive and he can try


    harder to win me over, he could squeeze out another round of assets from the Wilburn family." A tear


    rolled down my cheek before I could stop it.


    I quickly cleaned my tear and continued, "As long as I''m alive, my parents will eventually transfer these


    funds to me."


    "Damn it! No wonder he''s pretending to be the dutiful husband and doing the lovey-dovey stuff with you


    everywhere!" Catherine cursed indignantly. "What a devious asshole!"


    I chuckled. "And then, he''ll mediate and swindle my backers, leaving him safe and sound."


    "He''s so calcting!"


    I nodded. "Catherine, if we hadn''t met Daniel that day, we wouldn''t have known he was investigating


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. We wouldn''t have realized he was already nning his next move."


    "It''s fated! If God doesn¡¯t want you to die, no one can!" Catherineforted me.


    "Perhaps this is the real reason I''m still alive. I should thank God for these coincidences that allowed


    me to escape Jan''s clutches. I can¡¯t believe that Silverdale City would even have such a n!"


    "But it''s just a n right now!" Catherine pointed out. "I did hear about itst time I was there, and the


    rumors were rampant, but it''s unclear when it will actually be implemented."


    "That''s why I need to go back to Silverdale City. As long as this n isn''t implemented, I am safe. This


    news can''t disappear. If it does, he''ll make a move again." I said with self-mockery, "It seems I really


    can''t count on these funds."


    Elbert nodded. "That''s true. Given what you''ve said, Jan must be keeping a close eye on all these.


    Your idea is brilliant. You sell it and buy it back immediately. When everything''s back in your hands, you


    can gradually raise the price. You won''t lose anything, and you might even make a huge profit. But the


    capital required is no small sum."


    "Wait!" I stopped, puzzled. "This doesn''t sound like Jan."


    "What made you say that?" Catherine asked.


    "As far as I know Jan, he doesn''t have such a meticulous mind for economics." I stated with


    certainty. "There must be a mastermind behind him!"


    "You mean Marissa? Surely not!" Catherine looked at me with disdain.


    "Of course not! She isn¡¯t that good!" I affirmed. "Such a long-term n isn''t something she can control.


    There''s definitely someone backing Jan!"


    "Could it be Jerome?"


    I shook my head. At that moment, I remembered his other phone. I didn''t know any of the contacts in it.


    I quickly brought out my new phone. I''d been keeping this phone hidden, fearing Jan would find it. I


    pulled up the data I''d taken from his other phone and handed it to Catherine. "Catherine, we need


    Logan to look into these people. These are the contacts from Jan''s secret phone, and I¡¯ve got some


    information, too. I suspect these people are not simple."


    Then, I turned to Elbert. "I''ve lived with him for ten years, but I don''t recognize a single person here.


    This must be his other social circle. We might be able to find some clues."


    Elbert took the phone, nced at the data, and asked for my permission. "Can I make a copy?"


    I nodded. "Of course."


    They both copied the data, and I told Catherine, "Keep all of this safe for me. I can''t keep it on my


    phone anymore. Jan is getting suspicious. I must clear this phone!"

 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97


    Catherine nodded swiftly. "Then I''ll keep your phone here! Do you have anything important left inside?"


    "How should I put this? Everything in this phone is important!" I corrected her. "Please keep it for me!


    It''s just that it''s a bit inconvenient if I want to watch the surveince video!"


    Elbert chimed in, "You can hide the surveince app in a secret folder!"


    "How do I do that?" I asked, pleasantly surprised.


    Elbert took my old phone, fiddled with it for a while, handed it back to me and told me where he hid the


    app.


    I suddenly looked at him and blurted out, "Could Jan have also hidden something like this?"


    Catherine said with disdain, "We''ll find out once we get into his phone."


    "That¡¯s not the priority. The real issue right now is the funding!" I said, worried, "If I can''t secure enough


    funding, I can''t execute the n."


    "Seems like you need a partner!" Elbert hinted, looking at me, "Even if you had the money, you can''t


    possibly execute this on your own, right? It wouldn''t be wise for you to personally buy the shares he''s


    selling, right?"


    I mumbled, "Yeah, I indeed need a reliable person to help me buy low."


    "Do you have someone suitable in mind?" Elbert asked.


    I shook my head nkly. "For now, it''s just a n. I''ll worry about the funding first!"


    Elbert leaned on the couch. "If you trust me, I might know someone suitable!"


    I looked at Elbert in surprise. He seemed very passionate about this. "But this isn''t just a small favor but


    a big risk to take." I blurted out.


    "Of course, I know it''s risky! But it doesn''t have to be a favor!" Elbert looked into my eyes and said, "It


    could be a partnership!"


    "Partnership?" I was a bit puzzled. "How would we partner?"


    The rm bells in my head were ringing. I looked at Catherine, unsure about her friend. However,


    Catherine seemedpletely unfazed, so I rxed a bit. I had no reason to doubt Catherine.


    Elbert asked, "How many shares does Jan have?"


    "We own 45% of the shares!" I replied.


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    "How many do you need to buy?" Elbert asked again.


    "At least 40%. Ideally, I would buy all of them, not leaving a single percent." I paused, looking at Elbert,


    and asked, "Mr. Elbert, are you sure you can help me? This isn''t just any risk, you know!"


    I had to put it all out there beforehand and assumed the worst.


    Elbert seemed to see my doubts. He straightened up and paused a little. "Well, Ms. Aaliyah, I''ll go back


    and ask my friend. He''s also a friend of Catherine''s, and you can trust him."


    I looked at Catherine. "That man is also your friend?"


    I knew Catherine had been very sessful in the media industry over these years, and herwork


    was nothing to worry about. But a friend who could provide such substantial help wasn''t just any friend.


    I was curious.


    Catherine smiled calmly, reassuring me, "We¡¯ll talk to him first, but I guarantee he¡¯s someone you can


    trust."


    Mr. Elbert nodded, "If you''re still worried, I can draft an agreement for you. After purchasing those


    shares, once yourwsuit is settled, we''ll sell them back to you at the original price."


    "Sell them back at the original price?" I looked at him skeptically. "I thought you said we were


    partnering?"


    Mr. Elbert smirked. "That will have to be confirmed after talking to my friend. I can''t make any promises


    on his behalf."


    I pondered for a moment. This was a crucial step in my revenge. But right now, I couldn''t think of any


    other partner who could provide such funding. Without this financial support, I could not reim


    Medsafe Liyah Inc., let alone seek revenge.


    No matter how demanding the conditions were, as long as I could reim Medsafe Liyah Inc., I would


    not hesitate.


    "He¡¯s your friend?" I asked again, wanting to confirm. After all, I trusted Catherine. She wouldn''t set me


    up!


    "Yes!" Catherine affirmed, "Just wait for the news!"

 Chapter 98

    Chapter 98


    It was three hourster when we left the club. It was shining brightly outside, just like my current mood.


    Having solved the mystery and having a n, the gloom inside my mind was gone.


    I turned towards Catherine, who hade out with me, and raised my chin, "Wanna take a walk by the


    beach?"


    "Sure, why not? We¡¯ll sink or swim together!" Catherine replied.


    Hand in hand, Catherine and I strolled towards the beach behind the club. Strangely enough, that


    horrible feeling from earlier returned. I looked around, but there was no one else in sight. Yet, I couldn''t


    get it out of my mind that we were being watched.


    "What are you looking at?" Catherine asked, noticing my gaze.


    "Why do I always feel like we''re being watched?" I replied, withdrawing my gaze from our surroundings


    and looking at Catherine.


    "No way. The ce I chose is absolutely secluded. You can rest assured." Catherine pulled me along,


    not a care in the world.


    We continued our walk, and I asked Catherine, "Who is this friend you¡¯ve mentioned? The one who can


    provide the funds? That''s a lot of money."


    Catherine raised an eyebrow and put on a smirk on her lips. "Don''t worry about that, dear. But I can


    assure you that he''s trustworthy. Let''s wait till Mr. Elbert has spoken to him. These people are always


    discreet. They don''t like to show off. You''ll know when we are ready to coborate."


    I gave Catherine a sidelong nce and snorted, "Huh! God knows what you are doing. It¡¯s my


    business, and I don¡¯t have the right to know it? Screw the discreet guy! Money doesn¡¯t grow on trees.


    You¡¯d better not get me into another trouble before I can clean up this mess!"


    "What are you talking about? Do I look like an unreliable person to you?" Sheughed, grabbing my


    arm. "I''ll never let you down, bestie."


    I could only respond with a resigned smile.


    Catherine suddenly changed the subject, looking gleeful. "Marissa must be devastated this time! I


    heard she got a good beating from them. She probably didn''t expect her downfall toe so quickly."


    Iughed, "She never understood her ce, just like that Zora at home, who always thinks she''s


    indispensable. Damn it! They set me up and then take credit. They¡¯ve crossed the line. I don''t know


    what sins I¡¯vemitted in my past life to meet these bad people in this life. This is karma, and it''s only


    the beginning. God won¡¯t spare her even if I want to."


    "You''re right! It pissed me off! Beating them hundreds of times won''t be enough to vent my anger!"


    "But, I really don''t remember when I signed that document. I have no memory of it."


    "Aren''t you the one who said the signature is yours?" Catherine asked. "Are you sure it wasn''t forged?"


    "That''s what''s weird about. I have no memory of it! But the signature is mine. I can recognize my


    handwriting anywhere. The way I sign ''Aaliyah'', it flows, which can''t be replicated, not with such


    fluidity." I racked my brain, trying to recall when I might have signed that document.


    At least I''d have some memory even in my haziest moments. I really had no idea what happened


    during those terrifying days.


    I went to pick up Probert after leaving the club. I parked the car far away this day and strolled leisurely


    to the school gate.


    Just as the school was letting out the younger grades, I purposefully stood where Marissa used to


    stand, but there was no sign of her.


    While keeping an eye out for Marissa, I searched the crowd of children for the boy, Evan.


    Not longter, there was Evan with his little backpack, looking rather unhappy.


    "Evan!" I called out to him.


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    He looked up at me, his small face serious and eyes filled with confusion.


    I walked over to him with a friendly smile. "Howe your mom isn''t here today, Evan?"


    He pouted, not answering, and continued walking out of the school gate. His expression was


    mncholy yet arrogant.


    "Evan, who''s picking you up today?" I persisted.


    "My dad!" he replied in a small voice.


    I was taken aback and instinctively scanned the surroundings, but there was no sign of Jan. I figured


    if Jan saw me here, he would definitely not show up.


    Evan was looking around as well, his little face looking anxious.


    I purposely stood by his side, waiting with him. As expected, we didn¡¯t see Janing up.

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99


    Seeing Evan''s eyes were getting redder and redder, I couldn''t help but crouch down to face him. "Is


    your dad is runningte for something? Don''t worry. I¡¯ll be waiting here with you!"


    He sniffed, looking a bit nervous. His gaze darted away from mine, and I wondered if he remembered


    me. After all, we had met at the mall, where he got upset when his call for his dad was stopped. He


    should remember that.


    So, I asked tentatively, "What''s your full name, Evan?"


    He looked at me warily, his big eyes shing as if he were deciding whether to answer my question.


    Finally, he replied with alert, "I don''t know you!"


    I quickly exined with a friendly smile, "Oh, Evan, I just want to tell your teacher, in case your dad is


    runningte, so the teacher can wait with you."


    He looked at me suspiciously for a long while, then reluctantly said, "My name is Evan Dawson!"


    I nearly snorted. How dared he give hisst name!


    I held my anger, ruffling Evan''s hair, and praised, "Good boy! I will go talk to the teacher now. Don''t


    worry!"


    Honest to God, I didn''t bear any grudge against this kid. On the contrary, I liked him. After all, he was


    just a child, and he did nothing wrong.


    I reached out for the little boy''s hand, and he must have felt my gentleness because he had obviously


    let his guard down, allowing me to lead him. My heart was conflicted at that moment.


    After all the first graders had left, I called over his teacher and told her about Evan''s situation that his


    parent hadn''te to pick him up yet.


    Right then, the teacher''s phone rang. She excused herself to answer it, then hung up with a smile.


    "Alright!¡± Then she turned to me and said, "Thank you so much! Evan''s dad got stuck in traffic. He''ll be


    a bitte. Sorry for the trouble!"


    I waved it off, then reassured Evan, "Just wait here with your teacher, Evan. Your dad will be here


    soon!"


    He blinked his big eyes, still looking at me with a curious gaze, his little face full of conflict.


    "Say thank you to this kinddy!" The teacher reminded him.


    He then muttered a soft, "Thank you, ma¡¯am!"


    Just then, the second graders were let out, lining up and exiting the school gate. I turned my attention


    to them, looking for my son, Probert. Soon enough, Probert ran over and excitedly hugged my leg.


    When his gaze fell upon Evan waiting for his dad, he paused for a moment, only for three seconds,


    before turning back to me, "Mom, let''s go home!"


    I nodded with a smile, waving at Evan. "Evan, I¡¯m heading home. Bye!"


    He hid a little behind his teacher but still waved back at me.


    After Probert and I had gotten into my car, I casually asked him, "You know that little boy, don''t you?


    Why didn''t you say hi to him?"


    To my surprise, Probert answered quickly, "I don''t like him, and I don''t want to say hi to him!"


    Now it was my turn to be surprised, so I asked, "Why don''t you like him?"


    "Grandma always says he''s a good boy, but she always criticizes me. I don''t even know what I did


    wrong!" Probertined, "I did nothing wrong, but grandma still told me off! She called me stupid!


    But she always praised him for being smart!"


    I was furious, but I had to be amused, ruffling Probert''s hair, "My Probert is not stupid! To mom, Probert


    is a clever boy."


    I didn¡¯t want my children to live in hatred.


    "Grandma also scolded me!" Probertined indignantly.


    "What did she scold you for?"


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    "She said I looked like my goddamned dying mother! And she poked my head like this..." Probert


    demonstrated, poking his own head.


    I smiled, pretending not to care, but I was nearly in tears, my hands and feet turning cold.


    "No worries! Mom won¡¯t die that easily!" Iforted him, seeing that he was willing to talk then, I


    pressed on, "When Mom was sick, did the nanny ever scare you?"


    Sure enough, Probert nodded immediately. "Yes, she said if you kept sleeping like that, you would turn


    into a zombie, and she didn¡¯t allow us to get close. Because zombies are contagious."


    "Did you believe that, sweetheart?" I asked softly.


    "I didn¡¯t believe a word she said. Mom is not contagious. That nanny is mean. she pinched mom, and I


    saw it!" Probert looked at me, mimicked it and said seriously.


    I didn''t expect Probert to be so sharp and sensitive, burying all these things in his heart. Luckily, I woke


    up in time and realized this. Probert seemed much happier at present.


    "Don''t be afraid, sweetie. Mom is okay now! You don''t have to fear them!" I encouraged my son, "Stay


    away from people you don''t like, including your grandma!"


    I had to tell him this because the Dawson family was just rotten to the core. I couldn''t let my children


    get confused between right and wrong.


    Probert looked at me nkly then asked, "Mom, why does grandma always praise that little boy?"

 Chapter 100

    Chapter 100


    I was taken aback, a wave of sadness washing over me. How was I supposed to exin this to him?


    After a moment, I turned to Probert and told him earnestly, "Son, everyone has their strengths and


    weaknesses. It''s the same for everyone, but each person''s strengths and weaknesses are different.


    Perhaps your grandmother appreciates a certain quality in him that you don''t possess. In her


    perception, she might think that his strength is greater than yours, which is why she praises him! But


    that doesn''t necessarily mean he is better than you. Do you understand what I''m saying?"


    "So, it''s like I''m good at math, but he is not. He can paint, and I can''t, right, Mom?" Probert''s eyes


    sparkled with a strong desire to understand.


    "Exactly!" Iughed delightedly, ruffling his hair. "My son is so smart!"


    My praise boosted his confidence. He settled back into his seat, putting on a proud look on his face.


    When we got home, I could feel something was off. Only ra was in the living room, yfully


    entertaining Carl. But there was no sign of Zora.


    I told Probert to go upstairs and change his clothes beforeing back down. Then I sat down next to


    Carl and casually asked ra, "Where''s your sister?"


    "She said she had something to do and left. Dinner''s ready!" ra''s tone was somewhat irritable. "I''ll


    get it served!"


    "No rush. You keep ying with Carl. I''m going to go upstairs and change my clothes. We''ll eat when I


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    I was puzzled as to where Zora could have stashed that drug. It was a liquid, which made it hard to


    hide. It was also something you could only get on the ck market, so there certainly wouldn''t be a lot


    of it. Strangely, though, I searched thoroughly and found nothing.


    As I was rummaging, I heard ra calling out from downstairs, "Ma''am, dinner''s ready!"


    I immediately perked up my ears and heard the faint sounds of someone climbing the stairs. The


    footsteps were already on the hallway.


    I realized I wouldn''t be able to leave the room in time.


    If Zora came back and found me in her room, it would be hard to exin.


    I quickly remembered the secret door. I rushed over, moved the bookcase aside, slipped through the


    hidden door, and closed it behind me. Then, I shifted the bookcase back to its original position from the


    other side.


    When I came to the study, I took off my jacket and sat down at the desk, picking up a pen.


    Just then, Zora pushed open the door of the study. Seeing me, her eyes narrowed slightly, but she


    quickly said, "Ma''am, dinner''s ready!"


    I nodded, purposefully cing my pen back into the holder and tearing out the page I''d been doodling


    on. I stuffed it into my bag and left the study.


    Heading back to my room, I tore up the paper and flushed it down the toilet, then changed my clothes


    and went downstairs.


    At the dinner table, I nonchntly said to Zora, "Next time, try not to leave during meal times."


    Zora acknowledged myment and went to serve the food.


    Just then, Jan walked in, carrying a bag and looking exhausted.


    I studied his face and asked, "You look so tired. What happened? Did something go wrong with your


    business trip?" At my words, both Zora and ra turned to look at Jan. He nced at the table,


    replying, "Just tired!" Then he washed his hands, sat down next to me, and yfully patted Carl. "I''m


    starving. I haven''t had a decent meal in days."


    Knowing he''d been busy with his fights, I chuckled inwardly. No wonder he hadn''t had time for a proper


    meal.


    Zora heard that and immediately offered. "Want me to make you some soup?"


    "No need!" Jan picked up his fork and took a bite of his meal.


    I stayed calm and mentioned, "Your mom called. She was trying to reach you but couldn''t get through."


    Jan paused, then continued eating. He didn¡¯t say until he''d swallowed, "She didn''t say what the


    matter was? Maybe my phone died."


    "Oh! She didn''t mention anything, but she seemed pretty urgent. Has she called you since?" I nced


    at him, but he seemed unbothered.


    "No, don''t worry about her!" Jan continued eating. He ate like a horse, showing how hungry he was .


    Thinking of Evan, I casually mentioned, "When I was picking up Probert, I saw Marissa''s son. The boy


    was all alone and looked quite gloomy. I didn''t see Marissa today, so I asked him who was picking him


    up. He said his dad was, but I didn''t see him. I even asked what his dad''s name was."

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101


    Jan was enjoying his meal when my words made him pause. Noticing my gaze, he hastily grabbed a


    napkin to dab at the corners of his mouth, attempting to hide his stun.


    Zora, sitting across from us, was also eyeing Jan. Clearly, she was also interested in the topic of


    conversation.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then I continued. "The boy is alert. He didn''t say anything!"


    Jan noticeably rxed at this, nonchntly got back to his meal.


    I inwardly chuckled, thinking, ¡°Damn it. I''m going to mess with you to see if you¡¯ll freak out.¡±


    So, I continued, "I had no choice but to take him back to his teacher. I wanted to take him home, but I


    was afraid his father would be worried if he didn¡¯t see his son when arriving school, so I didn''t!"


    Jan pretended he didn¡¯t take my words to heart, but after a pause, his grip on his fork tightened. He


    turned towards me with an awkward smile. "You¡¯re a busybody, aren¡¯t you?"


    "Look at you! How can you say that? After all, Marissa used to work for us. We can''t just sit back and


    watch. It''s dangerous for a child to be left alone!¡± I retorted and pretended to be curious. ¡°The kid is


    good-looking. Have you ever met his father?"


    Jan lowered his gaze, picking up a piece of broli with his fork, "No, I haven''t."


    "Howe? Didn''t you attend her wedding?" My tone was skeptical.


    Jan gave me a sidelong nce. "No, I didn''t. When she left, thepany was in a tight spot. She


    quit at the worst possible time. I wouldn''t be surprised if she did it on purpose. I have no good


    impressions of her. If it weren''t for you, I wouldn''t even bother to talk to her."


    I was astounded. Since when had Jan be such a proficient liar? He was so full of it. Was this


    the same Jan I used to know?


    Back then, he was honest and unpretentious. He would blush and turn shy when talking to me, let


    alone lie to my face. I started to suspect how he evolved into this monumental con artist that he is


    today.


    The more he acted this way, the more I continued to probe. "But didn''t she bring her son to the office


    once? You even bought him snacks and yed with him like his father?"


    I was teasing Jan on purpose to see how far he could stretch his lies.


    Suddenly, I noticed Zora''s hand gripping her cup tighter. I inwardly groaned, ¡°Oh, right, I have forgotten


    about the jealous one at home!¡±


    Jan seemed annoyed, frowning at me. "Honey, how am I supposed to remember all these


    insignificant details? You women love to gossip! You would believe anything."


    "I''m not gossiping. It''s just that I saw Evan today," I chuckled innocently, watching him squirm. It was


    quite satisfying. "He''s such a cute and clean boy. Even Probert said that your mom praises him all the


    time as if he''s her own grandson!¡±


    Zora across the table pursed her lips in disdain.


    I served Probert broli and continued, ¡°This Marissa is a real mystery. Her husband seems as


    mysterious as a ghost, and she''s secretive about everything. But being able to send her child to a


    prestigious private school, her husband must be doing well. I thought you would know him!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s plenty of well-off people!¡± Jan murmured.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m curious who she¡¯s married. After all, she used to be my subordinate, and she¡¯s smart.


    Why is she so secretive about her marriage and child?¡±


    I suddenly acted like a gossiper, leaned toward Jan with an exaggerated look, and whispered, ¡°Do


    you think she might follow the trend and be someone''s mistress? Why else would she be so


    secretive about her husband? I might have to do a little digging!¡±

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102


    Sure enough, my words had stirred up a ho''s nest in Jan, who stopped eating his meal to shoot


    me a cold hard, look. ¡°You seem to be in great healthtely, considering you have all this energy to pry


    into other people''s private matters!,¡± he satirized icily.


    A smirk crossed my face as my mind sneered in retort. Other people''s private matters? It was more like


    your dirty little secrets!


    ¡°Private matters indeed,¡± I retorted. ¡°You see, she¡¯s always skirting around me, and it piqued my


    curiosity.¡±


    Jan dropped his fork, his face paling slightly, seriousness etched on his face. ¡°Listen here, Allie.


    Don¡¯t pick up the gossipy habits like those idle dames or pry into other folks¡¯ business like some old


    biddy. It¡¯s tacky.¡±


    Seeing his anxious face, I couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter. ¡°You¡¯re the old biddy here! I was just


    saying it, but why so jumpy? So annoying!¡±


    My carefree attitude left Jan at a loss, and across the table, Zora¡¯s face darkened in my unabashed


    ¡°Just a heads-up. You¡¯d better steer clear of those nasty habits of the trophy wives. You¡¯d better nip it in


    the bud. Don¡¯t meddle in affairs that don¡¯t concern you!¡± His face was stone-cold, and his eyes were a


    stormy sea of emotions. I could tell he was on the brink of losing his temper.


    But I couldn¡¯t care less about his temper. What was he thinking when he did that in the first ce? So, I


    tried to y it cool and pretended to be disappointed. ¡°Alright, alright! I was just curious. Seeing her


    living the high life, staying in a posh neighborhood, driving a luxury car, and sending her child to a


    private elite school, I think she¡¯s married a rich guy. But considering her boastful nature, it¡¯s strange


    how she dodges any questions about her husband. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s odd? All I wanted to know was


    why. You¡¯ve got a problem with that? What are you getting all worked up for? Does it have anything to


    do with you?¡±


    ¡°Nonsense! What¡¯s it to me? I¡¯m not worked up. Poking your nose into others'' affairs is a major no-no.


    You¡¯d best keep your distance from that Marissa woman. I have a hunch that she¡¯s got a hidden


    agenda.¡± Jan, seemingly cornered, started badmouthing Marissa.


    It looked like he was at his wit''s end.


    I could hardly imagine what Marissa would think if she knew about Jan''s judgment of her.


    Indeed, she had a hidden agenda!


    ncing up, I noticed Zora¡¯s face light up with an unusual delight. I stared at Zora nonchntly, who


    hastily lowered her gaze to her te, trying to conceal the fleeting moment of triumph.


    I cursed under my breath. ¡°Stop the little gloating, Zora. I swear I¡¯ll make you taste Jan''s wrath and


    know the feeling of being beaten up.¡±


    If it weren¡¯t for the fact that I hadn¡¯t found the drug she was hiding, I would have kicked her out long


    ago.


    But this might be a good thing. The conversation between Jan and me must have been a catalyst for


    Zora. She surely wouldn¡¯t stay indifferent, especially since I had Logan pass on this information to that


    Maddox.


    So, I was sure that Zora knew about Marissa and her child. She even knew where Jan had been


    these past few days, which exined her frequent outings.


    Damn it! Was this some sort of war with his mistresses?


    The dinner was filled with tension, but I was delighted. Before I made my move, I had to seize every


    opportunity to have them at their wit''s end. However, there was one thing that puzzled me. When I was


    in Zora¡¯s room earlier, ra¡¯s sudden shout felt like a warning. Was she trying to tip me off?


    I nced at ra, who had been quietly eating her meal. Noticing my gaze, she gave me a brilliant


    smile. Could ra have known I was in Zora¡¯s room? I shouldn¡¯t underestimate this little girl.


    That night, the kids were exhausted from ying and went to bed early. Ever since Probert came back,


    Carl stopped clinging to Zora, which was definitely a good thing for me.


    Jan announced that he had a video conference to attend. I took the opportunity to bring him a cup of


    coffee, sneakily taking a peek. He was indeed in a meeting, which meant he hadn¡¯t been to his office


    these past few days.


    I didn¡¯t stay long. After cing the cup, I left. Just then, Catherine sent me a message saying the


    investor had agreed to proceed with the project. As for the details, they would be discussed at another


    meeting.


    Although I was curious about who this friend of Catherine was, since he had agreed to meet me in


    person, we would meet sooner orter. This news lifted my spirits.


    I received a text on WhatsApp right after I sent Catherine a thumbs-up emoji. The profile picture of the


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    texter was two people hand in hand, but the male hand looked oddly familiar. And its content was,


    ¡°Hello!¡±


    A thought crossed my mind, and I was pretty sure this was Marissa¡¯s ount.


    Good lord! Before I could go for her, she beat me to it. This was good news indeed!

 Chapter 103

    Chapter 103


    However, I didn''t rush to add her. Instead, I clicked on the surveince camera for a quick scan.


    I saw Zora lounging in the living room downstairs, casually flicking through her phone. She was


    growing more audacious by the day, acting like she was thedy of the house. She even had some


    fresh fruit beside her, looking quite content.


    ra was probably in her room since she was nowhere in sight, while Jan was in the study.


    I zoomed in on Zora''s frame and saw that she was engrossed in her phone. Judging from her


    expression, she was deep in a chat with someone.


    I smirked a little. The house was turning into a scene straight out of a spy drama. I was sure the elusive


    ra was up to no good as well. I couldn''t believe that after hooking up with Jan, she was only


    interested in having sex with him. That didn''t seem to fit her character at all.


    I had a feeling that this young girl was more cunning than her sister. I must keep a close eye on her,


    especially after the shout she¡¯d made downstairs earlier. The more I thought about it, the more it


    seemed off. That was definitely not a coincidence.


    About fifteen minutester, I replied Marissa''s text with a ¡°Hello?¡± and went through her profile. As I


    expected, she hadn''t posted anything. Her profile was set to private.


    I didn''t initiate a conversation and decided to wait and see how she would y her cards. I was ready


    to y along.


    Just as I was thinking, she sent a message, "Aaliyah! Is that you?"


    I deliberately replied with a question mark, and cursed in my heart, "Damn it, bitch. You''ve added me,


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    and you''re still asking me that stupid question?"


    I used to have her on my contact list, but she had changed her number. Perhaps she did that to avoid


    me.


    She quickly sent another message, "It''s Marissa. Thank you for taking care of my child today! I''ve been


    feeling unwell these past few days, so I couldn''t pick him up. His father ended up beingte, and I was


    worried sick! Men are just not cut out for this!"


    "It was no big deal!" I texted back with a smiley face. "I was worried he might run off and get into


    trouble. After all, he''s still a kid!"


    After sending the message, I snapped a screenshot of her profile picture and sent it to Catherine,


    asking her to find Marissa in the richdies'' group chat and check out her profile.


    Catherine sent back an ''ok'' emoji.


    Marissa sent another message, "It''s so nice to have you, dear Aaliyah!"


    She was being hypocrite!


    "Don¡¯t mention it!" I replied, and then asked, "What''s the matter with you? You should take care of


    yourself, especially now that you''re nning to have another baby. You''re no longer twenty. You need


    to take care of your health!"


    I deliberately mentioned ''health''. She was indeed ''hurting'' her health now after getting beat up!


    Catherine''s message came in. "Her profile is private. I can''t see anything!"


    "You know what..." I quickly replied to Catherine, "Use my other phone to add her. Change your profile


    picture to a man''s. She might let her guard down that way!"


    The more Marissa tried to keep her profile private, the more I was convinced that she was hiding


    something she didn''t want me to see.


    "Got it! Just wait and see. I won''t let her off easily!" Catherine dered, peacing out to work her magic


    on Marissa.


    Marissa continued to chat with me about trivial matters, which were all empty pleasantries. The only


    significant thing was when she asked if my husband was at home. I figured that was why she added


    me.


    Towards the end of our chat, I kindly offered to pick up her son if she needed help, but she quickly


    refused, saying his father would do it.


    I chuckled to myself. She seemed to be on high alert against me. Well, just let his father do the pick-up


    job. I would be there each day to see how his ''daddy'' would handle it.


    As I was smirking, Catherine suddenly sent me a video. I quickly ended my chat with Marissa.


    When I clicked the video Catherine sent, I was instantly fuming...

 Chapter 104

    Chapter 104


    I hastily clicked on the video. The screen was crystal clear, showing a skeletal woman sprawled on a


    king-sized bed. Her tangled, unkempt hair sprawled over a pillow. The camera moved closer, focusing


    in on the woman''s face, but it was pixted to obscure any recognizable features. The figure on the


    bed was motionless, looking like a lifeless corpse.


    A sudden chill ran through me, and I was hardly out of breath. The woman in the video was me.


    As the camera zoomed in close to my pixted face, a softugh could be heard from behind the lens.


    Several sentences popped up on the screen."Here youy without a word, stripped of your former


    grace, unwilling to even share a word with me! Oh, how I''ve waited for this day!"


    Seeing these words, I was filled with such a rage that I started to tremble. My desire to tear everything


    apart resurfaced.


    This footage had stunned me! She went to great lengths to make this video, adding subtitles instead of


    daring to voice her cruel intentions.


    This video was from a while back when I was like a dead body, barely hanging on.


    It turned out this home-wrecker had audaciously trespassed into my home and filmed me. Her words


    were clearly wishing for my death so she could marry into the family and take my ce. How wicked


    must she be to have done such a vile thing? I held no grudge against her. In fact, I treated her like a


    younger sister. I mentored her, groomed her into a key role in my business. Yet she repaid my kindness


    with treachery. What a twisted soul.


    I watched the video several times, ignoring the numerous messages from Catherine. The burning rage


    within me threatened to consume me, transforming into a roar of fury. ¡°Marissa, you will pay for this.¡±


    Catherine, having received no response, videocalled me. I pulled myself together, cleaned my tears,


    then answered, speaking quietly to Catherine on the screen, "I''m okay! Can you find a way to introduce


    Marissa to a wealthier man the soonest?"


    "A wealthy man?" Catherine looked puzzled, "Did I hear you right?"


    "You heard it right. A wealthy man, preferably one with a tough wife!" I hinted.


    Catherine understood immediately, "Oh, I get it! I''ll see what I can do!"


    "I will not rest until I have my revenge!" I spat out the words with venom.


    Just then, I heard footsteps in the hallway. I quickly ended the call,id down, and pretended to be


    asleep. Sure enough, it was Jan. He entered the room quietly, standing by my bed and watching me


    for a while. He called my name softly, but I didn''t respond. He leaned down and began to feel under my


    pillow, checking both sides.


    My nerves were on edge. It was clear he was looking for my phone. He must have suspected me.


    A jolt of fear rushed through me. I hadn''t had the chance to delete the video Catherine had just sent


    me. And the videocall on my phone would give away the fact that I had just ended a call. If he found my


    phone, he would find out I was pretending to be asleep, and he would discover my secret, which put


    him on his guard.


    He didn''t give up, and his hand continued to search cautiously.


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    I let out a faint hum and moved my body. He withdrew his hand quickly. But I could feel that he was still


    standing there, watching me. Then, I murmured and turned over to lie on my back and naturally put my


    hands under it.


    The room was quiet enough to hear a pin drop, and the only sounds were our soft breaths. My heart


    was pounding, and I was clenching my fists in case he made his next move.

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105


    I was afraid he would continue sifting through my belongings, but he didn¡¯t. Instead, he quietly withdrew


    from my room.


    I opened my eyes at the moment the bedroom door closed, my heart hammering in my chest. I ced


    a hand over my frantic heartbeat, breathing a sigh of relief. His footsteps sounded like he was going


    downstairs.


    Hastily, I reached for my phone, scrolled through it, and deleted anything that might raise suspicion.


    After all this, I was close to copsing. I couldn¡¯t afford to slip up now; it would undo everything.


    I opened the hidden surveince app on my phone. Downstairs, Zora poured a ss of wine and


    handed it to Jan. He took it without a word and sipped it.


    Zora stood carefully at his side, looking like she wanted to say something. Jan gestured for her to


    follow him upstairs.


    This action startled me. Had he discovered the surveince? Why else would he silence Zora? It was


    clear he was on guard. I quickly switched to another camera angle. Jan walked into the study first,


    with Zora trailing behind. Before entering the study, she nced around the hallways, then followed


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Jan in.


    Inside the study, Jan walked straight to the couch and sat down, crossing his legs on the coffee


    table. He looked at Zora with impatience and contempt. ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think Aaliyah has been going out too frequentlytely?¡± Zora immediately brought me into


    the conversation, ¡°I doubt there¡¯s anything wrong with her health. Otherwise, why would she be out all


    the time?¡±


    I muttered a curse under my breath. It was Zora who had been going out frequently, not me.


    But her words served as a warning: I had to be more careful.


    Just then, a surprising scene appeared on my phone¡¯s screen. A figure moved stealthily into the


    camera¡¯s view, inching towards the study. I realized why Jan had signaled Zora to go upstairs.


    He was preventing eavesdropping. It was clear he was being cautious. I rxed a bit since he hadn¡¯t


    discovered the other set of cameras inside the house.


    I had to thank Logan for his expert instation. His cameras were really hard to spot.


    Back in the study, Jan remained silent, sipping his wine as Zora waited for his response.


    Finally, he told her, ¡°Next time she goes out, follow her. See what she¡¯s up to.¡±


    At this time, the figure outside the door gently attached to the door, listening to the movement inside.


    At this time, I really felt a kind of inexplicable stimtion. I was d that I got the best position.


    ¡°She''s going out longer and longer and doesn''t look like exhausted. So, are you sure that the


    medication you prescribed to her was only palliative nutrition?" Zora asked, looking at Jan, and then


    said suspiciously, "She seems to be recovering a little too fast!"


    Jan was silent and took another sip of his drink, as if thinking about Zora''s words.


    It was true that I had been a bit careless for a while.


    "Shall I..." Zora asked tentatively, not daring to speak directly. But I totally understand what she was


    insinuating.


    I stared at Jan on the screen, he was silent for a long time, and then drained his ss in one gulp,


    and then said to Zora as if he had made up his mind, "You follow her first and see what she is doing,


    who she''s meeting, what they''re discussing. If she meets anyone she shouldn''t...¡± He paused, ying


    with the winess in his hand, then coldly spat out, ¡°She should sleep for a while.¡±


    My heart shattered. The pain was bone-deep. I had known he had drugged me, but hearing it


    confirmed was like a thunderp. Tears welled in my eyes.


    I held back my emotions, focusing on the screen, afraid to miss any details.


    He pointed at Zora, adding, ¡°But remember, the dosage has to be small. She can¡¯t suspect anything,


    and she can¡¯t be too weak. She still has her uses. Don¡¯t ruin my ns, Zora. If you dare to act on


    your own again, I¡¯ll make sure you pay.¡±


    Zora was angered by Jan¡¯s words. She had been carefully choosing her words with Jan.


    She scoffed, ¡°What? Are you feeling sorry for her now?¡±


    Jan lifted his eyelids, coldly staring at Zora, who was leaning against the desk with her arms


    crossed. His gaze was chilling, like that of a hawk, filled with malice.

 Chapter 106

    Chapter 106


    Zora, scared yet unyielding, retorted, "Don''t you dare look at me like that! I''m the only one here who''s


    truly dedicated to serving you! You better not freeze me out, mister!"


    Jan averted his gaze, slumping into the couch, a picture of weariness. His voice, slightly rough,


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    echoed in the room, "Don''t you dare overstep your bounds. I am well aware of your efforts, but I don''t


    respond to threats."


    Zora, taking a step closer to Jan, ced her hands on his shoulders. Seeing no resistance from him,


    she began to gently massage them as she continued, "I''ve never intended to threaten you. I know you


    must have other women out there..." As Zora gained confidence, she dared to broach the topic. Her


    words were abruptly cut off as Jan, who had been resting his eyes, sharply opened them, causing


    Zora to flinch instinctively.


    "Mind your manners, woman. Don''t assume that just because you''re close to me, you can entertain


    wild fantasies. One should always know their ce. I don''t mistreat anyone. But if you continue to


    bother me, don''t me me for being ruthless!"


    Ha! That has to be the funniest thing I''ve ever heard. He''s a beast, yet he ims not to mistreat


    anyone! Apparently, I''m not even considered human in his eyes.


    Zora, undeterred by his icy words, knelt before him, attempting to wrap her arms around his neck, only


    to be swiftly pushed away by Jan, "Get back to bed, I''m exhausted!"


    Ignoring his dismissal, Zora audaciously moved her hand towards hisp, "Let me... help you rx!"


    Jan swatted her hand away once more, "Back off!"


    Angered and humiliated, Zora shot up, growling, "What, you prefer tender young girls over me? Be


    careful, Jan! My sister isn''t as docile as I am."


    All I heard was Jan''s cold snort, its meaning unclear. Zora''s lips twitched in embarrassment. She


    stood there awkwardly for a while before finally turning to leave.


    In the next scene, the figure outside the door swiftly retreated barefoot, just as Zora exited the study.


    Zora paused to nce in the direction ra disappeared into, before retreating to her own room.


    I focused on the lower floor''s view where ra hurried downstairs, pacing back and forth in the hallway


    before disappearing. Jan, on the other hand, remained on the couch, lost in thought for a good


    twenty minutes before finally getting up. I quickly shut off the surveince video, checked my phone,


    and ced it under me, feigning sleep.


    Sure enough, Jan entered the room soon after, searching for my phone. He found it and quickly


    retreated.


    I squinted, watching him leave the room. I turned over, a scornful smile on my face. I had already


    cleaned my phone thoroughly.


    As expected, he returned to the room shortly, cing my phone back where he found it. But he didn''t


    return to bed. Instead, he left the room again. It seemed he was off to ra''s room. Jan really was a


    creature of habit, always chasing after the new and forgetting the old.


    Hisscivious behavior disgusted me, and his departure was a wee relief. I closed my eyes, ready


    for some peace and quiet. But the conversation between Jan and Zora lingered in my mind. It was


    imperative to find the drug she had.


    The next day, I intentionally asked her to drive the kids to school by my car. She happily obliged, even


    changing into a fresh outfit. Then she left, looking nothing like a nanny.


    I took the opportunity to search the car she had been driving, but still couldn''t find what I was looking


    for. I was disheartened. Where on earth did she keep it?


    That day, I stayed home, recharging my batteries. I shared the conversation between Zora and Jan


    with Catherine. We agreed toy a trap for Zora.

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107


    Once I had my n nailed down, I got all dolled up and hit the road right after lunch.


    I noticed Zora was tailing me with her car almost immediately, bobbing and weaving through traffic to


    keep up. I couldn''t help but smirk at her attempt to stay discreet. I drove straight to the hospital and


    checked myself into the physical therapy center for some rehabilitation exercises.


    Doctors had encouraged me to do these exercises regrly, saying they would aid in my recovery.


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    After the workout, I felt drenched in sweat, but also incredibly refreshed. The exercises were gentle and


    slow, perfect for someone recovering like me.


    Just as I finished, Catherine arrived, and we left the hospital together, giggling and chatting. We went to


    a coffee shop with a back door and spent the afternoon enjoying ourselves, talking about everything


    under the sun. Iughed so hard I was doubling over.


    By the time I had to pick my kid up from school, I was sure that Zora had been camping out


    somewhere, watching us like a dog. So, I snuck out through the back door with Catherine and picked


    up Probert.


    Sure enough, I returned home without a sign of Zora. It wasn''t until ra brought Carl back home that


    Zora rushed in, looking startled to find mefortably lounging on the living room couch, ying with


    the kids.


    Naturally, as thedy of the house, I wasn''t pleased with her tardiness. I frowned at her, "Zora, you


    need to keep track of time when you go out, or at least call ahead. We''ve all been waiting for you,


    especially the kids. They''ve been at school all day and they''re hungry. We can''t start dinner without


    you. You''re certainly taking your job as a maid easy."


    She quickly apologized, providing some excuse before heading into the kitchen to start dinner. I


    snorted dismissively, reminding her to always remember her ce as the maid.


    When Jan came home, dinner still wasn''t ready. He was used to having his meal prepared when he


    walked through the door, so he was understandably annoyed. I tried to y peacemaker and softly


    exined, "Zora had some errands to run and got back a bitte. Why don''t you take a shower first?"


    Jan had seemed off recently, looking tired and weary. I suggested he take a break and told him that


    ra would fetch him when dinner was ready. ra, who had been ying cops and robbers with


    Carl, chimed in without missing a beat, "Sis, you''ve been out a lot recently. The other day, I saw you


    whispering with a chubby guy. Who was he? He looked familiar."


    Zora stiffened visibly at ra''s words. I nced at ra, amused by her uncanny ability to add fuel to


    the fire. These two sisters really knew how to get on each other''s nerves.


    Jan, his face dark, turned and went upstairs. ra then brought Carl over to me, grinning as she


    said, "I''m going to help out in the kitchen. I''m starving!"


    Zora red at ra, her annoyance clear as she ttered the pots and pans in the kitchen. ra


    couldn''t resist poking the bear, "Sis, be careful. Those pans are expensive!"


    I had to stifle augh as I watched the two sisters bicker. It was entertaining to watch, even if I couldn''t


    quite figure out what their beef was.


    The next day, I went for a full body spa treatment under Zora''s watchful eye. It was incredibly rxing,


    though I did feel a bit guilty for making Zora wait.


    That week, I took the time to truly enjoy life, going out frequently and indulging in little luxuries. It made


    me question why I hadn''t spent more time treating myself in the past. Now, I was determined to make


    up for lost time and enjoy the finer things in life.


    I could only imagine how tired Zora must have been from tailing me all the time. It was about time she


    got something out of it.

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108


    After a refreshing night''s sleep, I took my time preparing for the day, applying a gorgeousyer of


    makeup, and grabbing my purse before stepping out of the house.


    Upon seeing my all-dolled-up appearance, Zora immediately grew suspicious. I noticed her peeking


    behind the curtains as I drove off.


    Once I reached themunity gate, I parked my car in the nearby lot and stood by the roadside.


    Before long, I spotted Zora''s car emerging from themunity. The sight of her following me brought a


    smile to my face.


    Soon, a luxurious car pulled up beside me. A tall, handsome man stepped out and, with a charming


    smile, graciously opened the car door for me. I gracefully stepped inside.


    We left themunity, with Zora''s car tailing not too far behind us. We drove to a fancy hotel where the


    gentleman parked the car and led the way inside.


    Just before entering the hotel, I stole a nce behind, only to see Zora sneaking in after us. I gave an


    ''ok'' gesture to the person inside the room, anticipating the drama that was about to unfold.


    Twenty minutester, we heard an expected knock on the door. The knocking sounded hostile. I quickly


    sprawled on the living room couch while my escort, still drying his hair, went to answer the door.


    The man who stormed in was Jan, with a smirking Zora following close behind him.


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    Feigning surprise, I jumped up from the couch, asking, ¡°Jan¡­what are you doing here?¡±


    Jan, with bloodshot eyes, bellowed, ¡°How could I miss such a wonderful scene?¡±


    I was baffled by Jan''s rage. Was he really that concerned about me? After all, wasn''t he nning to


    harm me? His fury seemed a little too exaggerated. What a good actor!


    My confused expression seemed to convince him that I was scared.


    ¡°Aaliyah, are you begging for trouble?¡± Jan roared, pointing at the man who had brought me here,


    ¡°Who is this man? What are you up to?¡±


    Meanwhile, Zora leaned against the wall, enjoying the spectacle.


    ¡°Sir, this isn¡¯t your ce to create a scene,¡± my escort said, gesturing towards the door, ¡°Please leave


    immediately.¡±


    Jan, blinded by rage, swung a punch at him, only to stumble forward when he missed. I let out a


    gasp. Thismotion caused a group of people to rush out from the next room, led by Gevena, a


    prominent businesswoman and wife of the Business Bureau''s Director, followed by a line of elegantly


    dressed women, including the pregnant Janice, who was gently rubbing her belly while observing the


    chaos.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? What is this about?¡± Gevena demanded, and then recognizing Jan, she asked,


    ¡°Mr. Dawson? What¡¯s happening here?¡±


    Trying to salvage the situation, I rushed over to Jan, pleading with Gevena, ¡°Gevena, I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    Janice, never one to shy away from drama, chimed in, ¡°From Mr. Dawson¡¯s reaction, it looks like he¡¯s


    here to catch his wife in the act. Quite an entrance, wouldn¡¯t you say?¡±


    At her words, everyone turned to look at Jan, their eyes filled with mockery.


    Catherine, a notorious gossip, couldn¡¯t resist chiming in, ¡°What a show! Jan, you didn¡¯t reallye


    here suspecting your wife of infidelity, did you? Considering her condition, if she were up to something,


    wouldn¡¯t she be too exhausted to sit up straight? You really don¡¯t trust her, do you?¡±


    I yed the part of the repentant wife, repeatedly denying the usations and trying to defend Jan.


    ¡°Catherine, enough! Jan didn¡¯t mean...he¡­¡±

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109


    With a yank from me, Jan snapped out of his daze, a bit embarrassed that everyone was watching


    him. His handsome face flushed as red as beetroot.


    He looked at me, trying to find an excuse, "What... what''s going on here?"


    Gevena''s expression was slightly off, but she still spoke up, "I invited some dear friends over for a


    gathering today. Thought of Aaliyah since she just recovered from her illness ¨C it''s good for her to get


    some fresh air. So, I had my driver pick her up."


    Gevena''s reasoning made sense, then she nced at Jan''s awkward face, sounding somewhat


    upset, "Seems like you''re not too pleased, Mr. Dawson."


    Jan quickly put on a ttering smile, "Gevena, that''s not it. It''s just a misunderstanding. I didn''t know


    you guys were here for fun. I''d have loved it if I''d known. Allie has been cooped up for too long. I


    appreciate your consideration for her. I''ve been telling her to hang out with her friends more, it''s good


    for her mood. Please, don''t misunderstand!"


    His change of attitude was so swift that anyone almost thought that the previous scene was not his


    doing. His smile was so bright it could charm the dead.


    Gevena didn''t quite buy it, her expression still off, clearly upset at the interruption. Everyone in


    Goldenvale Town''s business circle knew not to offend her. She was like a Guardian Angel of Wealth,


    and many would kill to get close to her.


    Jan was no exception. He was wary of Gevena, especially after he took over Medsafe Liyah Inc. He


    is quite intimidated by her as she is a proud woman who doesn''t take ttery easily.


    Seeing Gevena''s cold expression, Jan quietly nudged me several times.


    Gevena spoke in a neutral tone, "Today isn''t just for fun, we also have a serious matter. There''s a


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    when she heard about it. She thought it would be a great opportunity for yourpany to break into


    the international market.


    Given my rtionship with Catherine, Aaliyah has been bringing up this matter to me frequently. So,


    when the invitation arrived today, I quietly took one for Aaliyah. Didn''t expect it to turn into this mess!"


    She then turned to that man soaking wet and scowled, "Laird, are you done fixing it yet? Why are you


    all wet? What a disgrace!"


    It was clear to everyone that Gevena was indirectly mocking Jan through her driver.


    The room fell silent, it was a scene of public humiliation.


    Gevena''s status was well-known, no one dared to offend her. Her influence, in some respects, was


    even greater than the local governor.


    Jan''s face face fluctuated wildly, a clear indication of his stark embarrassment and difort.


    His gaze on the man was still doubtful, as the scene when he first opened the door was indeed


    ambiguous. Gevena seemed to understand his gaze, pointing at the man who was drenched, "Mr.


    Dawson, this is my driver and bodyguard, Laird!"


    She then looked at Jan and said apologetically, "I''m sorry, Mr. Dawson. I overstepped. I was worried


    that Aaliyah might not be able to handle the drive, so I had Laird pick her up. I didn''t mean to cause a


    misunderstanding. I apologize for the ruckus."


    Her tone was calm, but it was filled with disdain.


    She then reached back and someone handed her a maroon envelope, which she handed to me,


    "Aaliyah, here''s the invitation you wanted! No matter what, you need to close this case. Since Mr.


    Dawson is worried, you should go home with him!"

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    Chapter 110


    Gevena finished her speech, spinning around without giving a hoot about anyone''s feelings, and said,


    "Alright! Enough gawking, let''s move on!"


    Janice responded in a sarcastically, "Still in the mood? If not, let''s call it a night. Such a buzzkill!"


    I was holding that invitation, frozen in ce, looking at Jan, who was already looking downcast.


    Truth be told, even though this was our meticulously orchestrated show, it was so realistic that I


    couldn''t break character. I didn''t know how to proceed next in embarrassment.


    Jan looked awkwardly at Gevena''s retreating figure, his face going pale. Suddenly, he turned back


    and locked his hawk-like gaze on Zora, who was still standing at the door, utterly confused. He


    growled, "This is all your doing!"


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    Without another word, I tossed the invitation to Jan¡¯s face and headed towards the door, bag in


    hand. Catherine purposely yelled out from behind me, "Aaliyah, wait up! I''ming with you!"


    Despite knowing it was all an act, I still felt the sting of embarrassment. Jan didn''t forget to pick up


    the invitation as he chased after me. I smirked to myself. This invitation indeed held some weight in his


    heart. He could still swallow his pride after being humiliated in such a way.


    Of course, I knew the ins and outs of Jan''s ns. He always wanted to break into the international


    market, but hecked the right connections.


    That was the main purpose of today''s performance. I had to thank Gevena for her efforts. Despite her


    being Catherine''s friend, Gevena was principled and loyal, unless she truly despised you.


    Catherine told me that Gevena was so infuriated by Jan''s despicable actions that she vowed to fully


    cooperate with us. She despised such men, and called Jan a piece of garbage.


    Just as the elevator doors were about to close, he stuck his hand in, forcing them to reopen. He


    stepped in and pleaded, "Honey, I''m sorry... It''s my fault."


    I was trembling with rage, leaning against the elevator wall.


    Jan rushed over and tried to steady me. I pushed him away and yelled, "Back off! Don''t touch me!


    Have you no shame?"


    Zora, who was initially smug, looked terrified. She scurried over, but froze when I yelled at her.


    Jan, already furious, kicked Zora out of the elevator.


    Zora, unprepared for the sudden assault, flew out of the elevator and crashed against the wall before


    falling heavily to the ground, making me wince.


    I hailed a taxi outside the hotel and got in, ignoring Jan''s pleas. Once I was some distance away


    from the hotel, I saw Zora hobbling out and getting into her car through the rearview mirror.


    Jan immediately followed by driving his car.


    Soon, a taxi with two cars trailing behind it pulled up at my vi.


    Jan rushed over to pay for the taxi, but I walked into the house without acknowledging him, throwing


    my bag onto a decorative piece, causing it to shatter. That was what I want, which totally showed my


    anger.


    Zora walked in and tried to hide in the kitchen. I yelled at her to stop, "Stay where you are!"


    She halted, looking at me nervously, and shrank back into a corner, not daring to make a sound.

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    Chapter 111


    Jan slid up next to me, grinning like a Cheshire cat, trying to put his arm around me. I promptly


    swatted his hand away. Heughed awkwardly, "Babe, let''s not fight, you gotta take care of yourself."


    I swallowed my anger, realizing how challenging acting could be. Once you''re in character, the


    emotions feel real. But my heart couldn''t handle the strain, my whole body trembling uncontrobly.


    Jan probably noticed my shaky state and began to gently stroke my back, whispering soothing


    words, pretending to be the epitome ofpassion.


    "Speak up! Who put you up to this?" I red at Zora, my voiceced with restrained fury. Anyone could


    tell I was on the verge of blowing up.


    "Ma...Ma''am, I''m sorry, I...Mr..." Zora stammered, evidently taken aback by my sudden hostility.


    This scene was probably unfolding too quickly, and not at all as she''d imagined.


    "Zora, what the hell were you thinking? Spying on me, is that it?" My gaze remained icy, my voice


    demanding an answer. "Who gave you the right to act like this? You''re crossing lines, Zora. Are you in


    such a hurry to take my ce as thedy of the house?"


    "Honey..."


    I snapped my gaze to Jan, unable to bear my humiliation any longer. "Don''t call me that! Do you


    even see me as your wife anymore?" Then I pointed at Zora, my voice rising, "did you tell her to do


    this?"


    I was livid, all my pent-up anger from the past few weeks spilling out. For the first time in a decade, I


    wasshing out at Jan. "Did you think I was on my deathbed, Jan? You can''t even wait for that?


    What do you think I am?"


    Jan looked taken aback. "Don''t say that, it''s just a misunderstanding. Let''s not fight anymore, okay?"


    He tried to pull me into a hug, but his familiar scent now made me feel sick to my stomach. My


    uncontroble shaking must have really rattled him. He looked stupefied.


    I forcefully broke free from his grasp, ring at him, usingly. "Jan, do you even feel guilty? Even


    with my health in this state, you never ask how I''m doing, how my recovery is going, whether I''m eating


    well, sleeping well, losing hair, feeling nauseous..."


    "I''m sorry, it''s my fault! I just got busy..."


    I cut him off. "Busy with what, Jan? Busy with work? Well, how''s that going? Is thepany''s profit


    soaring? Have wended new projects?"


    He had no answer, ying dumb.


    "You''ve been paying less and less attention to the kids, our bank ount''s emptied out. What have you


    been busy with, Jan? Doing projects, right? ...Fine, bring them here. Bring me the project reports


    and ns. I have every right to know how these projects are being run. I may not be the current CEO


    of Medsafe Liyah Inc., but don''t forget, I''m the legal owner. Medsafe Liyah Inc. was founded by my


    investment, so I have every right to know its project structures."


    I purposely hit him where it hurt, speaking the truth he least wanted to hear. But it had to be said, and


    said forcefully, "if you can''t produce thepany''s ns within a week, or replenish our bank ount,


    you can resign. I''ll take over, and you all Dawsons can go home!"


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Jan''s face darkened, his gaze turning icy. Just as I expected, he feared losing control.


    I was certain that, until the city nning in Silverdale City was finalized, he wouldn''t dare touch me or


    allowing me to return to thepany. He''d restructured thepany, thinking I wouldn''t notice.


    Since we''re fighting, let''s go all out. I nned to use this incident to pressure him into returning all the


    money he''d moved from our joint ount. I was sure he wouldn''t confuse his priorities between the


    His change of expression showed he felt the pressure.


    Seeing his defenses crumbling, I smirked. This was just the beginning.

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    Chapter 112


    I could see Jan was reaching his breaking point, and a tiny part of me reveled in it. I kept up the


    pressure, "I''ve been trying to create a positive corporate image for Medsafe Liyah Inc., tirelessly


    you are, seemingly hell-bent on sabotaging it all.


    Are you tired of ourfortable lifestyle? Do you think that running a sessfulpany is a piece of


    cake? Where have you been investing all your time and energy? If you''re not interested in managing


    ourpany, just say the word and I''ll take over. I''d rather that than listen to your constantints


    about being busy, tired, or how difficult it is. If you''re not up for the job, then do something you like!"


    Jan looked flustered, trying to regain hisposure, "Honey, please calm down. You get me wrong."


    "Seriously?" I threw my head back andughed, tears streaming down my face. "Oh, how I''ve wronged


    you! You''ve had the audacity to offend the Business Bureau''s Director in Goldenvale Town, is there


    anything you won''t dare to do? I''ve indeed wronged you!" I pointed at Jan, took a deep breath and


    continued, "Do you realize that the invitation was just a foot in the door, not an automatic win? Without


    Geneva working her magic behind the scenes, do you honestly believe that your good looks alone


    could secure international orders? You''re a short-sighted man."


    I never imagined I''d resort to hurling such harsh words at Jan.


    The harshest ones I swallowed, biting my tongue. I wanted to say, "You''re only good for flirting with


    women, only thinking with your lower half. An animal."


    But that one sentence was enough to hurt Jan. It was the worst thing I could say, a direct attack on


    his pride.


    Jan sat stiffly, his face a mask of terror. I expected an outburst, but I''d overestimated him. Instead,


    he wore a face full of guilt and mumbled an apology.


    See? That''s the face of a small-town man. You push, he retreats. I couldn''t fathom why I''d ever fallen


    for such a man.


    "Me wronged you? Who called you to the hotel? Do you take me for a fool?" I yelled, unable to control


    my feelings anymore. "Jan, I really overestimated you. You''ve been yed by a nanny, and you


    don''t trust your own wife. I''m done with you!"


    Jan was speechless, his face ashen. On the other side, Zora, who had been doing her best to fade


    into the background, was giving me a hostile look. Without warning, I called her out, which scared her


    to death.


    "Zora, I treated you like a sister when you came to this house. I paid you well and treated you with


    respect. We shared meals, and you nevercked for clothes or gifts. Tell me, where did I wrong you


    that you feel the need to sow discord, to attack my marriage? Do you think I''m so ill, so deluded?"


    I red at her, each word hitting its mark. Her expression changed immediately.


    "And what did you do? Tell me, you coveted my husband and repaid my kindness with betrayal!"


    Zora immediately protested, "Madam, I didn''t..."


    "You dare to deny it? Then tell me, what didn''t you do? Didn''t sow discord? Didn''t ruin our rtionship?


    So how did you know I was at that hotel? How did Jan end up there? Why did you take him there?


    Tell me, why were you following me?"


    My barrage of questions left her no chance to interrupt.


    She wants to deny it? I''d make sure she ran out of lies.


    She looked guilty, nervous or indifferent, I couldn''t tell. She kept darting nces at Jan, but I knew


    him too well. He was in no position to defend her now.


    "Fine, since you''ve decided to betray me, I won''t let this slide. Pack your things and leave my house


    immediately! We no longer require your services." I said decisively to Zora, "I will not tolerate anyone


    disrupting my family''s harmony."


    To my surprise, Zora''s demeanor changedpletely at my words.

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    Chapter 113


    She suddenly fell to her knees before me, taking mepletely by surprise and almost causing me to


    jump.


    She looked up at me with a pitiful face, even crawling a couple of steps towards me, "Madam, please...I


    was wrong, I really was! Please don''t send me away, I..."


    "Do I keep you around to stir up trouble in my house, to fan the mes?" I stared into her eyes with an


    intimidating gaze, my voice cold, "Zora, I gave you a chance, but you were still brazen. Are you taking


    advantage of my kindness?"


    "No, madam, I really didn''t! I was just momentarily blinded. Please give me another chance, I will


    change!" Zora was visibly agitated, reaching out to grab my hand, "Please don¡¯t make me leave."


    I pushed her hand away, my gaze never leaving her, "Keep you here to plot against me? To turn my


    house upside down? Or should I keep you here and let you take my ce?"


    My words left no room for reply, leaving them both awkward.


    "Allie, what are you talking about?" Jan intervened, reaching out to me, "Don''t be stubborn!"


    I looked at the frantic Zora and said without a doubt, "Regardless of what you''re nning today, I don''t


    want to hear any excuses. GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!¡±


    "Madam, you can''t do this, this is all..." Before Zora could finish her sentence, Jan delivered a kick to


    her chest, sending her flying back with a muffled grunt.


    I knew exactly what Jan was trying to do with that kick; he was worried Zora would say something


    she shouldn''t.


    I watched the scene unfold, Jan''s cold gaze fixed on Zora like a predator, his voice chilling, "What is


    all this? Still trying to argue your way out? The damage you''ve caused today is irreparable. Do you


    believe I can teach you a lesson you''ll never forget?"


    Zora curled up, clutching her chest, her face pale.


    "Speak up!" Jan demanded, his voice menacing, "What were you going to say?"


    Jan''s re was a clear warning to Zora not to say anything she shouldn''t.


    "It''s all a misunderstanding! Madam, it''s all my fault." Zora managed to utter through her pain.


    I gave a coldugh. It seemed like they were trying to y a game with me. Well, two can y at that.


    "Misunderstanding? What a convenient excuse," I exploded. "Your constant provocations are also a


    misunderstanding, huh? Do you really think I had no idea about the surreptitious jabs you''ve been


    making at me with those long needles, really?"


    Zora''s face turned even paler, she tried to reach out for my hand. However, I quickly stood up and gave


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    her a disdainful nce, coldly saying, "I have no problem handing the evidence over to the police!"


    Then I gave her a cold smile, turned around and headed upstairs.


    Back in my room, I copsed onto the bed,pletely drained.


    I''m sure my words earlier must have shocked both of them, which is why I can''t let Zora stay in the


    house any longer.


    From downstairs, I heard a few shrieks, which was to be expected. I had gone upstairs to give Jan a


    chance to deal with her. It seemed Jan didn''t let me down. And I was certain, no matter how brutally


    Jan beat Zora, she wouldn''t dare to call the police. After all, they shared a secret that couldn''t be


    revealed.


    This time, Jan wouldn''t let Zora off so easily. His reputation had taken a hit, not to mention he had


    offended Geneva, which was akin to cutting off his source of ie and causing a whole lot of trouble.


    Furthermore, byying a hand on her, Jan was showing me his loyalty. He certainly wouldn''t miss an


    opportunity like this. I had promised that Zora would get a taste of being beaten up.


    After catching my breath, I quickly took out my phone and called the housekeeper I had arranged long


    ago toe and take over immediately.


    This was the perfect opportunity to kick Zora out and I wasn''t going to leave any room for her toe


    back. Given the circumstances, I didn''t dare take any chances. Zora had a history of causing trouble


    and I had to get rid of her once and for all.


    Themotion downstairssted quite a while before Jan finally walked in, still radiating a hostile


    aura. Iy in bed, watching him coldly as our gazes met in the air. He paused at the door for a moment


    before walking towards my bed.

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    Chapter 114


    He was probably sorting out his emotions as he walked, and by the time he reached me, he had put on


    that absent warm smile, "Sweetheart, I know you''re mad at me." As he said this, he took a seat at the


    edge of my bed, looking deeply into my eyes, "In truth, you don¡¯t know how much I care about you.


    We¡¯ve weathered so many storms together over these years, it hasn¡¯t been easy. I admit, I''ve been


    neglecting you recently! I didn''t realize it until you pointed it out."


    I seriously wanted to kick him off the bed. Was he addicted to this drama? Could he just turn on the


    waterworks at will? And ying the emotional card, too. Did he think my feelings were that cheap?


    So I just stared at him, and it seemed to encourage him to continue, "So, when she called me out of the


    blue today, saying you were at a motel with another man, I lost my cool and rushed over there without


    thinking! It¡¯s my fault, sweetheart, can you forgive me? It won¡¯t happen again."


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Again?" I red at him, a sarcasticugh escaping me, "I can hardly imagine how badly I''ve fallen ill?


    Even a nanny feels bold enough to walk all over me, to treat me like her personal doormat, and my


    husband just turns a blind eye, I really want to know, how much backing have you given her?¡±


    ¡°Sweetheart, you¡¯re being unfair, how could I back her up?¡± Jan defended himself, his face changing


    color.


    ¡°Jan, I''m not a fool, and I don''t turn a blind eye to things! Do you really think, I don''t know how I got


    the injury on my head? You still dare to say you did not favor her? Jan, I''m really starting to doubt,


    whether your conscience has beenpromised?"


    My words clearly startled Jan, but he quicklyposed himself, his face filled with pain as he


    grabbed my hand, "Allie, I did see the injury on your head! But you don''t know how much it hurt me.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t notice!¡± I didn¡¯t leave him any room for exnations.


    He sighed, gently kissing my hand, ¡°It¡¯s no surprise you¡¯re suspicious, I haven¡¯t handled this well. The


    reason I imed I didn''t see anything was because I was afraid you would lose your temper. I am


    swamped with work every day, and you know Medsafe Liyah Inc. is not what it used to be. The bigger


    thepany, the greater the pressure, and it worries me being away from home so much.¡±


    Bringing up Medsafe Liyah Inc. again! Seems like Medsafe Liyah Inc. is his universal shield, but all it


    brings me is disaster.


    ¡°I¡¯m conflicted too, if we hire someone new, who knows how that will turn out, especially with the care


    she has given to Carl, which was genuine. That¡¯s why I have been hesitant to let her go. I did warn her,


    and I thought she would take it to heart, but¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to worry.¡± I snorted coldly, interrupting his performance, and said decisively,


    ¡°Have her pack her bags! I won''t live another day under the scrutiny of those unsettling eyes! And I


    certainly don¡¯t want someone who could harm me to stay in my house.¡± Then I gave him a sarcastic


    smile, continuing, "It just dawned on me, your warnings are nothing, if a nanny can ignore them, I can¡¯t


    even imagine, how you maintain authority in thepany!¡±


    ¡°The problem is¡­¡±


    ¡°There is no problem, it¡¯s better you say you can¡¯t bear to let her go!¡±


    I locked eyes with Jan, hitting him where it hurt, "She''s so brazen towards me, and you can tolerate


    it, Jan, I''m beginning to doubt whether there''s any truth left in your words."


    Jan was taken aback by my words, his expression shifting, but he met my gaze, and I didn¡¯t back


    down.


    After a while, heposed himself, nodded in concession, "Fine, let her go!"


    In front of Jan, I took out my cell phone and called ra, asking her toe home right away.

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115


    Both of them had to go, not a single exception. These two sisters were nothing but trouble and I was


    determined to clear my house of all its filth, Jan included.


    ra came back quicker than anticipated, clearly blindsided by the news of her eviction.


    She looked at the badly injured Zora, probably piecing things together, then turned to me and


    whispered, "Madam, could you please give us a break? Let me take my sister to a clinic first, we''ll


    I read her like a book. She was ying for time. I nced at Jan, curious to see how he would react.


    And there was something else. I still hadn''t found the drug Zora had been hiding, a potential future


    problem. I needed time to find it.


    As expected, Jan didn''t disappoint. He said in a calm yet firm tone, "Don''t try to y any games


    here. There''s no room for negotiation."


    His words were harsh, but he was clearlymunicating something to ra through his gaze.


    "Alright! We just need to find temporary amodations. We''ll leave as soon as possible. I know my


    sister must have done something unforgivable to deserve this. I''m truly sorry, madam!" ra looked at


    me with pleading eyes.


    I remained indifferent, offering nopromise, seated on the couch. ra helped Zora up and left, the


    to handle some urgent matters and quickly took off.


    I knew better. What office work? He was just going to clean up the mess.


    I couldn''t just sit idle either. Once they all left, I started rummaging through the kitchen again, but to no


    avail.


    Just then, the new housekeeper I had called earlier arrived. I put her straight to work, instructing her to


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    thoroughly clean the kitchen, discarding everything that had liquid in it and recing it with new items.


    Next, I went to Zora''s room. I had already searched it twice, but found nothing. I was perplexed. Where


    on earth had Zora hidden the stuff?


    I searched every nook and cranny again, even the toilet tank, under the bed, inside shoes... but still,


    nothing!


    I grabbed a box, determined to find it in this limited space.


    I tossed everything I had already checked into the box. With the help of the housekeeper, we moved


    tworge boxes out of the room, which immediately looked much more spacious.


    Resting on the now empty bed, I scanned the room once more. My eyesnded on the vanity table. For


    some unknown reason, the cosmetic bottles caught my attention.


    Bottles, liquid!


    I immediately got up and went over, putting all the cream-like items into a bag. My attention was finally


    drawn to a perfume bottle identical to mine. I eagerly grabbed it, inspecting the liquid inside. It was


    clear but bubbled when shaken, and had an almost imperceptible sticky texture.


    Something was off. I quickly opened the bottle, waved it under my nose, but there was no scent.


    ¡°It''s a slow poison that''s tasteless and odorless.¡± Suddenly, this word sprang to mind. A chill ran down


    my spine. The liquid in this bottle must be what I was looking for. I felt a surge of joy. Zora was cunning


    enough to hide it in a perfume bottle, casually ced among other cosmetics. No wonder I hadn''t been


    able to find it.


    I held the bottle, thinking for a while before swiftly going back to my room. I dumped my expensive


    perfume, cleaned the bottle, and poured the suspicious liquid into it. Then I filled Zora''s bottle with an


    equal amount of water and put it back among the other cosmetics. Even if she realized I had switched


    the bottlester, I believed she would have been kicked out of my house by then.


    After setting everything up, I copsed onto my bed, panting. I called Catherine, asking her to take the


    liquids for testing.


    Finally, I felt at ease. But before I could catch my breath, Helga came knocking, informing me that ra


    had returned.

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    Chapter 116


    She walked in with a straight posture, the same nervousness she had when she first arrived here. She


    stood in front of me, fidgeting with her fingers, a look of humility all over her face.


    I gazed at her with an air of cool detachment, sensing that she was here to negotiate.


    True to form, after a lengthy prelude and seeing my icy silence, she took the initiative.


    "Ma''am!" She called me obediently. I stared at her, raising an eyebrow to prompt her to continue.


    "My... my sister, she''s quite badly hurt," she confessed to me.


    "You should take that up to Jan. He''s the one who hit her, so if you wantpensation, you should


    talk with him," I said, my gaze sharp and unflinching.


    She immediately waved her hands in denial, "No, no... that''s not what I mean, ma''am. I know you''re


    kind-hearted and have always been good to my sister. It''s her own greed that got her into this mess.


    But... ma''am, don''t you think that it¡¯s not just her in the wrong?"


    After saying this, she shot me a fearful nce, clearly anxious. I mentally scoffed. Her true colours


    were showing.


    I observed her silently, my gaze sharp and imposing.


    "Ma''am, I didn''t mean to offend you by saying that, nor am I trying to negotiate anything," she said, as if


    reading my thoughts and then confidently continued, "I just want to help you!"


    "Help me?"


    Her earnest and desperate expression was obvious, and she took a step forward, "I''m telling the truth.


    From the moment you allowed me to stay here, I''ve wanted to help you!"


    I didn''t know whether or not to believe her. She had slept with my man and now she was iming


    sincerity.


    I feigned amusement and asked with interest, "How do you propose to help?"


    "Don''t you think, ma''am, that Mr. Jan is hiding something?" ra asked tentatively, her eyes fixed


    on me.


    "Go on," I urged, not falling for her bait without knowing her true intentions.


    ra hesitated for a moment, biting her lower lip and looking at me uncertainly, obviously unable to


    read my thoughts.


    "But there''s no harm in saying it," I encouraged her.


    After contemting for a while, she looked up at me, "Ma''am, do you trust Mr. Jan?"


    I remained silent.


    ra seemed at a loss, she stammered out, "Ma''am, I don''t mean to sow discord between you and


    him, but what I heard was that Mr. Jan ordered my sister to spy on you! And he has another woman,


    even a child!"


    She watched my reaction as she spoke, but I remained impassive.


    ra took another step forward, "Ma''am, I just feel it''s unfair for you. I''m not speaking for my sister,


    she''s a woman capable of anything. Even though she''s my sister, her deeds are unforgivable. But


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    you''re different, you shouldn''t have to bear all this."


    I suddenly felt as though I''d found a kindred spirit.


    "ra, no matter what, your sister still paid for your education. Don''t you think it''s too much for you to


    act this way?" I challenged her.


    "Ha! Too much!" ra''s pale face held a look of disdain, "She arranged for me to be gang-raped, in


    exchange for a monthly allowance of $300. Who do you think is really to me?"


    I was left speechless at this revtion, taking a long time to recover.


    ra continued with a bitter smile, "I was 15 that year. Because my father called her a bastard and


    molested her in front of my mother after he got drunk, she arranged for a man named Maddox to have


    me gang-raped."


    As ra narrated her story with a smile, it was truly heartbreaking.


    "My mother, fearing the scandal would get out, ckmailed her into signing an agreement to support


    my education until I get married, otherwise, she would report her to the police. She was forced to sign


    the agreement, left home, and thus came the $300 monthly allowance. Ma''am, should I be grateful to


    this sister of mine?"


    I was at a loss for words, watching ra''s pale face as she recounted her past, "15 years old, my


    memory stops at 15. Ma''am, it really hurt! But she just stood there, watching me scream in pain. She''s


    my sister, no matter whether she''s a bastard or not, she''s my family."


    ra cleaned her tears and exhaled, "Marriage? Who could I marry? With a mother who''s a tramp, a


    father who''s a drunkard, a sister who''s a devil! Ma''am, what can I do?"


    Her words really shocked me, I was at a loss for words.


    "The only thing left in my life is to take revenge on Zora," ra gritted her teeth and said ominously, "I


    want her to wish she were dead."


    "What''s your condition?"

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    Chapter 117


    She chuckled, "Madam, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. So, I want to help you, be it in the


    Perhaps it was her story that softened me or sparked my curiosity, I asked, "Why help me?"


    "Simply because you chose to keep me around. The day I arrived here, your smile lit up my inner


    darkness. Regardless of your intentions, your smile made my day."


    ra''s words were filled with a pitiful charm, like a lone flower braving a storm, "If only my sister could


    be like you. My world would be filled with sunlight. I just want a simple life, away from my dysfunctional


    family, but even that seems impossible!"


    "Also, at the office. After yourst visit, that jerk, Jesper, came to me asking if I knew the rules. He


    threatened me, told me to keep my mouth shut and not to snoop around. That''s when I realized


    something fishy was going on. His threats only piqued my curiosity, so I picked up on some office


    gossip! I figured it might be helpful to you!"


    Honestly, I was torn. But I believed ra.


    "Do you want to continue staying here?" I asked her.


    She slowly shook her head, gave me a cryptic smile. That smile was loaded with meaning, and I


    sensed something wasing.


    Sure enough, she said with a guilty expression, "I don''t need to stay here. Mr. Jan has already


    arranged for me and my sister. Of course, Zora doesn''t want me to go with her, but I have something


    on her, so she can''t get rid of me! Knowing her, she is the vindictive type. She wouldn''t let it go if you


    kick her out. I''ll be by her side, and at the very least, I can keep you informed of her moves." ra''s


    words were sincere.


    I gave a faint smile, just as I suspected. Jan''s hasty exit was indeed to clean up their mess. This


    means there''s something more between Jan and Zora, not just a simple conspiracy against me.


    I was delighted to have such an insider. So, I softly thanked her, "Thank you! And be careful!"


    ra replied calmly, "I''ve lost the luxury of safety since I was 15. Don''t worry, Madam! I owe you, and


    I''m happy to help!"


    Our eyes met, both understanding each other''s thoughts. Then, she took out her phone and extended it


    towards me, "Add me! It will definitely be useful."


    I took out my phone and added her on WhatsApp. Seeing her profile picture, I couldn''t help but give her


    a second look. Her profile picture was a blooming dandelion, a fitting symbol for ra.


    After finishing the conversation, she didn''t linger and left in a hurry. Watching her retreating figure, I felt


    a pang of sadness. My hand gripping the phone rxed after a while.


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    My housekeeper came over, whispering that she had tidied up the kitchen. I instructed her to store


    Jan''s utensils separately, but without arousing suspicion.


    My new housekeeper¡¯s name is Helga, in her forties, very neat and efficient. From the way she


    organized the kitchenware, it was clear she was a professional.


    After delegating a few household chores, I left to pick up the kids.


    Without Zora, managing two kids by myself was indeed challenging. Carl was particrly fussy,


    continuously searching for ''mommy'', and was not familiar with Helga.


    Fortunately, Probert was very sensible. After finishing his homework, he came downstairs to help me


    coax his little brother.


    Just as I was juggling everything, someone else showed up to stir the pot.

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118


    It was a rare sight to have Jan''s mother, Hazel, visit us. Today, she made an unexpected


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    appearance.


    Walking through the door, she noticed Carl throwing a tantrum and she grumbled, "Only you could


    make a simple babysitting task feel like a barnyard meltdown."


    I chuckled lightly and replied, "Yeah, I can''t do it like you, Hazel. I can''t just yell at them and threaten to


    spank them every time."


    Hazel was about to refute when Jan walked in, he was clutching a bag in his hand. His eyes


    widened in surprise at the sight of his mother, and he asked curtly, "What brings you here?"


    Presumably, he was wary since Hazel''s visits usually spelled trouble. After all, she had created quite a


    mess at Marissa''s ce.


    Recognizing the sarcasm in Jan''s words, Hazel retorted, "I just wanted to see my grandkids. How


    long has it been since you brought Probert back home? When are you nning on returning him to


    me?"


    I scoffed silently at her question. Return him? That would ruin my boy.


    Hazel plopped down on the couch, her face twisted in annoyance. Spotting Probert, who was


    engrossed with his Lego set, she called out to him, "Probert, didn''t you notice I¡¯m here?"


    "Say hello to your grandma," I nudged, knowing well that Probert wasn''t too keen on his grandmother,


    but manners were important.


    "Hello grandma," Probert muttered, not looking up from his Lego.


    "Such disrespect! Ungrateful child! I''ve spoiled you for nothing," Hazel grumbled.


    Hearing her harsh words, I finally lost my patience and said, "Hazel, don''t be so hard on the kids. They


    have feelings too."


    "What do these little brats know about feelings? If you don''t discipline them now, they''ll turn out to be


    good for nothing," Hazel argued.


    I didn''t bother arguing with her. I wasn''t going to stoop to her level. The Dawson family was a mess,


    and I wasn''t going to let them drag me down with them.


    Ignoring Hazel''s mumblings, I picked up Carl and said to Probert, "Let''s go upstairs and draw, okay?"


    Jan interjected, "Dinner will be ready soon. How about you go upstairs after that?"


    I didn''t pay him any attention.


    Once Probert heard my proposal, he quickly got up and sprinted upstairs, like he was avoiding the


    gue.


    I told Helga to call us when dinner was ready and headed upstairs with the kids.


    As I was leaving, I heard Hazel ask Jan, "Did you change the nanny?"


    Jan merely grunted in response.


    Back upstairs, I sat the boys down with their Lego set and turned on the security app. I had a feeling


    that Hazel was not here to see the kids.


    As expected, once I was upstairs, Hazel nced at the kitchen where Helga was busily preparing


    dinner and leaned in to whisper to Jan, "You promised me, Jan. Why haven''t you transferred the


    money to me yet?"


    A smirk tugged at my lips. Marissa was right. Hazel always wanted money. Was she nning to show


    off somewhere again?


    Jan''s face darkened at her words. He lowered his voice and snapped, "Can''t you hold yourself back


    a little, mother? You have spent so much money. Do you think I''m your personal ATM, always ready to


    fund your whims?"


    "Watch your words, Jan. You bought that woman...¡± Half of it, Hazel suddenly pause, then she


    lowered her voice, ¡°You bought her an expensive car without batting an eye, but when I ask for a little


    money to attend a cruise night party, you suddenly im you''re broke. Am I still your mother?"


    I thought to myself, who would want a mother like that? They would have to be incredibly unlucky.


    Jan was furious at Hazel''s words. He red at her and retorted...

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    Chapter 119


    Jan retorted, his tone definitive, "It''s not suitable for you!"


    "What do you mean by that, Jan? Why is it not suitable for me? My presence there would reflect well


    on you, do you think I''m doing this for myself?" Hazel''s temper red, as if she''d been stung by a


    ho. "It''s a symbol of status, an event like this, if the Dawson family doesn''t attend, it would be a loss


    to our prestige. Are you saying we don''t even have that kind of standing in Goldenvale Town?"


    "We do! But if anyone should go, it should be me! You should be content as Mrs. Dawson, keeping


    house!" As soon as Jan said this, I almost burst outughing.


    Hazel, stung by his words, rolled her eyes so hard I thought they''d fall out. It took her a moment to


    regain herposure, "What do you mean by that, Jan?"


    "Don''t you get it? Do you think it''s appropriate for you to attend social events like this?"


    Jan''s words were a hard blow.


    "How is it not appropriate?" Hazel was instantly roused, standing up, her voice rising, "I am the


    legitimate Mrs. Dawson, if I''m not suitable then who is? Unless you mean Marissa..."


    "Mother!" Jan roared, cutting Hazel off, his eyes inadvertently darting upstairs. He then stood,


    dragged Hazel out and pushed her through the front door before mming it shut with a ''bang''.


    Hazel, was far from ready to give up, pounding on the door in her rage. I couldn''t hold it in any longer


    and let out augh. Probert immediately ran to my side, asking, "Mommy, what''s so funny?"


    I quickly shut off my phone, pulling Probert into a hug and nting a kiss on his cheek, "Nothing,


    sweetheart, just saw a funny joke!"


    "What joke, can I see?" Probert was curious, his innocent face melting my heart.


    I had to find a silly video on TikTok and show it to Probert. Carl also came over, and seeing his brother


    Despite my exhaustion, I felt at ease. The air in the house seemed fresher.


    And dinner was great. You could tell that Helga had poured her heart into preparing the meal, it was


    delicious and satisfying.


    It had been a long time since we''d had such a satisfying meal. Even Carl, swinging his little legs from


    his high chair, was enjoying his food.


    It made me realize just howckluster the meals had been when Zora was here. Her heart was never in


    her work, it was always on Jan.


    Jan at the dinner table seemed pleased, eating heartily, all trace of his earlier anger gone.


    I didn''t ask, and he didn''t say when his mother had left.


    It seemed the Dawson family feud had begun, and I might as well fan the mes. But it would be much


    more entertaining if the entire Dawson family was at odds, not just Jan and his mother.


    Getting Carl to sleep was a bit of a struggle. He refused to sleep, crying and calling for his ''mommy''.


    Jan looked at me, wanting to say something. I knew what he was thinking.


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    I didn''t hesitate, looking straight into Jan''s eyes and leaving no room for argument, "Don''t even think


    about it. I''m not letting Zora set foot in this house again!"


    Jan, seeing my firm stance, didn''t dare say anything and left Carl''s room. I decided to stay with Carl.


    But what I didn''t expect was for my words to be thrown back in my face so soon.


    In the middle of the night, I was awoken from a deep sleep by the buzzing of my phone. I looked


    around, disoriented by the unfamiliar surroundings, before realizing I was in Carl''s room.


    I found my phone, still stubbornly vibrating. It was the middle of the night, could it be Catherine calling?


    I quickly picked it up and saw a new contact, ra.

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120


    I raised my eyebrows, answering the call. A timid voice came through, "Ma''am, my sister has sneaked


    out. She seems to be heading your way, and she has your house keys."


    Startled, I immediately sat up, cursing myself for forgetting about the keys.


    "Are you sure she''sing here?"


    "I think so! Be careful!" ra warned, "She''s up to no good. I''m worried."


    "Got it!" I ended the call, pondering about the situation.


    Next to me, Carl stirred. I gently soothed him, gazing at his tear-streaked face with a heavy heart. I


    covered him lightly with a nket, then quietly exited his room.


    Returning to my room, I saw Jan deep asleep on the bed, snoring away, oblivious to my presence. I


    felt a wave of revulsion looking at him, unable to bear it any longer.


    I made my way to the guest room without turning on the lights, then hid behind the curtains, watching


    the quiet street below. I was curious to see what Zora was nning.


    Under the dim streetlights, the shadows seemed toe alive.


    Minutes ticked by as I patiently waited, my gaze fixed on the front gate.


    Sure enough, about twenty minutester, I saw a shadowy figure swiftly approaching- it was Zora. She


    lingered at the gate for a while before sliding it open and sneaking in.


    I pulled out my phone, switching on the surveince camera. On the screen, the front door opened with


    a faint creak.


    Zora sneaked in. She paused at the entrance before confidently striding in. She seemed to know her


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    way around, heading straight up the stairs.


    I quickly dimmed the brightness of my phone, blending into the shadows behind the curtains, in case


    she decided to check the guest room.


    On the screen, the figure moved swiftly. The dim hallway light cast an eerie glow on her face. She


    stopped at the top of the stairs before tiptoeing into her old room. It became clear then¡ªshe was after


    her drug.


    She emerged after a few seconds, finding the room was empty. I had taken all her belongings and


    thrown them in the storage.


    Her movements became frantic. But then, I saw her heading towards Carl''s room. My heart clenched in


    fear, and I instantly switched to that camera feed.


    She walked straight to Carl''s bed, sending chills down my spine. I stepped out from behind the


    curtains, intending to storm into Carl''s room. That audacious woman, sneaking back in the middle of


    the night and daring to enter my child''s room.


    Remembering her conversation with Jan about Carl, it seemed like she was using my child as a


    pawn against Jan.


    As I watched her enter Carl''s room, I couldn''t help but panic.


    Keeping an eye on the screen while walking, I feared she might harm Carl.


    But to my surprise, she simply sat down on his bed in the dark, gazing at the sleeping Carl. I froze in


    ce, my heart pounding in my chest.


    Did this insidious woman actually care for Carl? After all, she had taken care of him since he was born.


    Could she have developed genuine feelings for him?


    Unable to bear it any longer, I reached for the door handle. But then, I saw her lean over and give Carl


    a light kiss on the cheek. She gently touched his face before exiting the room.


    surprised, I stopped in my tracks, staring at the screen.


    She hesitated outside the study, peeping inside, probably checking if Jan was there. Then, she


    headed towards the master bedroom. I tensed up, fearing she would discover my absence.


    But strangely, she stopped at the door, her outstretched hand withdrawing. Then, she decisively turned


    around and headed downstairs, her figure fading into the shadows.


    I let out a sigh of relief, but she wasn''t done yet. She moved about the house before entering the


    storage room.


    There were no cameras there, so I couldn''t tell what was happening. But it was clear she was looking


    for her belongings.


    I couldn''t let her just walk in and out of my house as she pleased.


    With that thought, I quietly descended the stairs and sat on the couch, waiting.

 Chapter 121

    Chapter 121


    The rustling of objects echoed from the storage room, its interior devoid of a night light. I figured she


    was either feeling her way in the dark or using the faint glow of her cell phone as she looked for what


    she wanted.


    After what felt like an eternity, Zora finally sneaked out of the room. As soon as her foot crossed the


    threshold of the living room, I flipped on the overhead light from the switch on the small cab.


    In an instant, the entire room was as bright as day.


    Caught off guard by the sudden illumination, Zora instinctively raised her arm to shield her eyes. It was


    toote to retreat; she was busted on the spot.


    Startled by the sudden turn of events, Zora clung tighter to the object she held, pulling her arm away


    from her eyes. Our gazes met unexpectedly, "¡­Madam¡­!"


    Possibly alerted by the noise, Helga, wrapped in a robe, rushed out from one of the guest rooms on the


    first floor.


    Sitting on the couch, I fixed my sharp gaze on the flustered Zora and asked coolly, "What are you


    doing?"


    Zora stared back at me, swallowed nervously, and remained silent.


    "You sneak into my house in the middle of night, as if it''s your own. I must say, you''re braver than I


    thought," I said, my tone icy. "Zora, what would happen if I called the police?"


    "Aaliyah, you can''t scare me. I just came to get my stuff," Zora retorted, hardened by anger, her eyes


    full of resentment.


    I smirked at her, and curled my lip in disdain.


    "Just retrieving your things? Breaking into someone''s house in the middle of the night without


    permission, that trespassing!" I spoke calmly, as if we were having a casual chat, "Don''t forget, you''ve


    been fired!"


    "Even if you fired me, you should let me take my things, right?" Zora argued defiantly.


    "Of course you can, but certainly not at this hour and not without permission!"


    "Aaliyah, you don''t have to y queen here. I worked here for eight years, even if I didn''t achieve


    much, I did work hard, right? You fired me just like that and had your husband beat me up. You think


    just because you''re rich, you can do whatever you want?"


    She tried to y the victim, her expression one of outrage.


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    I smiled faintly, "After eight years, you clearly don''t know me at all."


    "Helga, call the police!" Imanded coldly, then turned to Zora, "I''ll certainly give you a chance to


    plead your case! You can discuss everything with the police."


    "Sure thing!" Helga quickly responded before pulling out her phone to dial.


    Zora''s face paled instantly, and she instinctively moved the bag she was holding behind her.


    "Hold on!" Jan''s voice echoed from the upstairsnding.


    I smirked. His timing was impable.


    Helga halted her action, looking at me for further instruction.


    Jan, dressed in his pajamas and eyes still heavy with sleep, descended the stairs. He nced at


    me,fortably seated on the couch, before making his way over to sit beside me.


    Zora''s gaze flickered, shifting from me to Jan.


    Jan looked at the panicked Zora, his expression stern and icy, "Why are you here in the middle of


    the night? How did you get in?"


    "I came to get my stuff." Zora answered, somewhat apprehensively.


    "Well, I''d like to see what ''stuff'' of yours you''re here to get!" I fixed my eyes on the bag in her hand,


    "Helga, get her bag!"


    Helga stepped forward to take the bag from Zora, who immediately resisted and turned to Jan, "Sir,


    these are my personal belongings, I need them for tomorrow! They''re all underwear and cosmetics."


    Cosmetics? A realization instantly hit me. She was indeed here to retrieve that drug. But the contents


    of that bag had already been reced by me.


    Knowing her true purpose, I rxed, leaning back into the couch, ready to watch the drama unfold. I


    was curious to see how Jan would handle this.

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122


    Jan''s eyes bore into her with a re that was tinged with a trace of apprehension. He must have


    anticipated what Zora was here to do.


    "Zora, you barging in here in the middle of the night to retrieve your stuff is a bit too audacious, don''t


    you think? Are you trying to test our patience?" Jan artfully deflected the tension. "Hand over the


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    keys."


    Then he turned to Helga. "Helga, check what she took!"


    Helga nodded, grabbed Zora''s bag, rummaged through it, then rose to her feet to report, "Sir, madam!


    It''s indeed her underwear and makeup!"


    Upon hearing Helga''s confirmation, Jan leaned in and whispered, "Since it''s only that stuff, take her


    keys and let her go! She''s clearly injured. We don''t need any moreplications that could work


    against us."


    Seriously? Against us? And yet you attacked her knowing that?


    I scoffed, casting him a disdainful nce.


    Of course, I wasn''t really going to call the cops. After all, having Zora around could be useful. She was


    a valuable pawn in my game, and I wasn''t about to let her go that easily. The game had only just


    begun, and what''s a game without tools? Since she could serve as Jan''s watchdog over me, she


    could also serve as my aplice.


    "It¡¯s your call!" I got up nonchntly, not even giving Jan a second nce. Izily strode off, as if


    nothing had happened, and headed upstairs.


    ¡°Jan and Zora, you better stick together and cherish the remaining days you have left!¡± I thought.


    Jan was left puzzled by my actions, shouting at my retreating figure, "Allie, you..."


    I acted as if I hadn''t heard him and continued upstairs.


    The next moment, I heard Jan''s impatient roar, "Leave the keys and get out!"


    As expected, Jan didn''ty a finger on her.


    I raised an eyebrow and smirked. ¡°I''ll make sure you pay dearly for tonight''s decision, Jan.¡±


    The next day, I called ra over and threw out all of their belongings and reced all the locks in the


    house. Jan saw what I was doing but didn''t dare to question me.


    I gave him a cold shoulder.


    People are strange. The less attention you give them, the more they try and get in your face.


    Jan, who never used toe home for lunch, rushed back to have lunch with me, iming that


    Helga''s cooking was too good to miss.


    He even brought back some crawfish, my favorite seafood. I didn''t give him the satisfaction of eating


    any, though.


    Aside from the fact that my body couldn''t handle too much seafood at the moment, I was also cautious


    about eating food brought from outside.


    He looked at me somewhat disappointedly but couldn''t resist asking with a fawning smile, "Honey, don''t


    you love crawfish? I bought these especially for you. They''re still hot! Try some."


    I shot him a cold look. "Didn''t you know that I can''t eat too much seafood with my current health


    condition?"


    He was left speechless and awkwardly moved the te away.


    Before we could finish our meal, I got a video call from my parents. My heart burst with joy as I quickly


    put down my fork to answer. Jan also casually appeared in the frame, his smile gentle and refined.


    My parents, radiant with joy, chatted for a bit before my mom turned to my dad, "You should tell our


    daughter the good news and make her happy too!"


    I feigned surprise, "What''s the good news? Tell me, dad!"


    "Well! Haha! Our old house has been designated as a key project in Silverdale City." My dadughed


    heartily, his teeth showing, while my mom was also overjoyed.


    "Really?" I eximed happily. "Last time Catherine went home, she only mentioned it was just a n.


    Is it confirmed now?"


    "Yes, it''s confirmed! But since our family''s house is a private property and a key part of the overall n,


    which involves the development of the entire old town, our negotiations have just started. The proposal


    has already been submitted."


    "Really? Oldtown Avenue is arge area. Is our property included in it?" I asked excitedly. "Dad, you


    said our house is part of the key n? How much money can we get?"


    I could feel Jan leaning in from behind me.

 Chapter 123

    Chapter 123


    The video showed my dad grinning like a Cheshire cat, refusing to answer. My mom, on the other


    hand, was all smugness.


    She snatched my dad''s phone, leaned in close to the camera and whispered to me, "Your dad, he''s


    always been quite the visionary. A few years back, the old town was going through a rough patch,


    especially our little Oldtown Avenue. So many people were moving out. No one wanted to stay in this


    old street, especially the young folks. They all wanted fancy high-rises and penthouses. The old-timers


    were all leaving, heading off to the new districts."


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    I nodded in agreement, "Oldtown Avenue was way too run-down. If I were there, I would have packed


    up and left too!"


    Mom pouted at this, "And that''s why this ce turned into a forgotten backwater. It was once dubbed


    ''Ghost Street''."


    I chuckled along, "You''re absolutely right, mom. If young folks were to live in Oldtown Avenue now,


    they''d probably die single. No one would want to marry into a life in a t!"


    "Few people ever visit Oldtown Avenue anymore, let alone rent a ce here. Fortunately, we had some


    extra money at the time, so your dad bought up a bunch of these properties."


    As mom said this, I noticed Jan peeking over my shoulder, his eyes were lighting up.


    "You mean dad bought properties on Oldtown Avenue?"


    Mom nodded, "I wasn''t too happy about it at the time. Your dad and I had quite a few arguments over it.


    But he just wouldn''t give up the idea. Bought up half the street in one go. Once word got around that


    your dad was buying, people were lining up to sell...¡±


    I was shocked, "You mean, half of the Oldtown Avenue...?"


    Mom looked smug as she chuckled, "If we hadn¡¯t invested in Medsafe Liyah Inc. back then, your dad


    would have bought the entire street. But if he had, then... Oh well!"


    Mom had a regretful look on her face. Jan''s expression stiffened, probably thinking what a missed


    opportunity!


    I was staring at my mom on the screen, dumbfounded. Was she for real?


    If they really bought Oldtown Avenue, holy moly, I can''t even imagine the profit right now.


    But then, my dad snatched the phone back and said sternly, "Don''t listen to your mom¡¯s nonsense.


    We''re still in negotiations. You said you''d bring the kids to Silverdale City during the summer holidays,


    right?"


    He promptly changed the subject and I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. Such a sly old fox.


    Before I could respond to my dad, Jan jumped in, "Of course, dad. We told the kids and they''re


    thrilled. They''re counting down the days! As soon as their exams are over, we''ll head over!"


    "That''s good. We haven''t seen them for two years. Monique must have grown taller, hasn''t she?" Mom


    asked.


    "She sure has!" Jan grinned widely.


    The conversation then turned to family matters, and my dad didn¡¯t bring up the property issue again.


    After hanging up the video call, I was still in a daze. Was what mom said true?


    Jan seemed pretty pleased, asking Helga to bring me a bowl of soup, "Allie, have this while it''s hot."


    I silently took it and after finishing the soup, I told Helga, "I need to leave for a bit. Could you pick up


    Carl tonight? I''ll pick up Probert on my way back."


    "Don''t worry about it! Nothing urgent at the office. I''ll head home early and pick up the kids. You don''t


    need to worry about it." Jan was overly eager, picking up the task of fetching the kids.


    I nced at him, not responding, and headed upstairs.


    Jan, I''ll make sure your hopes remain just that. So, nothing urgent at the office, huh? Well, that''s


    about to change.

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124


    Before I left, I called Catherine, inviting her to go shopping, and mentioned looking for suitable gifts for


    my parents. I also suggested she try asking Gevena out, as I owed her a meal for helping with the


    overseas client. I was sure Jan was listening as I walked away.


    I stepped out the front door, then told Jan, ¡°Transfer some money into my ount. I don¡¯t want to be


    embarrassed again!¡± I said it with a cold indifference, then turned and left.


    My n was to gradually get him to willingly return the money he had taken.


    I hadn¡¯t even reached my car when Jan came running after me, ¡°Honey, wait up!¡±


    I nced at him, opened the car door and got in. He caught up with me and handed me a card. ¡°This is


    my secondary card. Buy whatever you want with it. Treat Gevena to a fancy ce. We don''t want her


    looking down on us.¡±


    I took the card, giving him a cold re. ¡°You should have been doing this sooner!¡± I also reminded him,


    ¡°You better replenish our joint ount as soon as possible! I said one week, and I meant it!¡±


    Then, I mmed the car door shut and left, leaving Jan standing there, looking rather pale, watching


    my car disappear.


    Speaking of cars, I remembered I needed to get Marissa¡¯s car back. She was enjoying my money and


    my status. What, did she think I was dead?


    After meeting up with Catherine, we went shopping as we waited for Gevena.


    Catherine told me, ¡°Allie, the results are out. It''s definitely that kind of poison.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already kicked Zora out!¡± I reported my recent victories to Catherine and what ra had told me. I


    also let her know that Jan had taken care of Zora and ra.


    ¡°Damn it! That bastard.¡± Catherine cursed, ¡°He is too kind to her.¡±


    ¡°That''s excellent. I want Zora to think that Jan can protect her, so she wouldn¡¯t give up. I need her.


    The better Jan treats them, the more interesting the drama will be.¡± I said, confidently. We shared a


    wicked smile. ¡°I want to see who has more fight in them, Zora or Marissa. Who will Jan protect


    more?¡±


    ¡°Marissa, of course. She has a kid. Besides, Zora is just a maid. She''s delusional if she thinks she can


    cause a stir. People these days, they dare to dream!¡± Catherinemented.


    ¡°You never know. I think Jan just sees them as conquests, he doesn''t have any real feelings for


    them. Remember, he even tried to kill his own wife. He''s no better than an animal! He''s incapable of


    being a decent human being!¡±


    ¡°You''re right!¡± Catherine agreed, ¡°You know him best!¡±


    Sadly, I knew him toote. I had wasted my best years on this brute.


    ¡°Has there been any news from Logan? I really want to find Addrion. If we could find him before we act,


    that would be great. He could be a big help.¡±


    ¡°When are you nning to act?¡± Catherine asked, impatiently.


    ¡°I need to get Jan to return the money to our ount first. That''s a significant amount! I''ll only feel


    secure once it''s back in my ount.¡±


    ¡°Do you think he''ll return it easily?¡± Catherine doubted, ¡°He went to great lengths to transfer it. He won''t


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    give it back easily.¡±


    ¡°He has to!¡± I dered, ¡°I will bring down the Dawson family! Send them to hell!¡±


    ¡°Honey, I''m with you! Let''s do this.¡± Catherine was pumped, shocking the other shoppers.


    I quickly led her away,ughing.


    ¡°My father called this afternoon. He mentioned the old house. It''s perfect timing. Even the universe is


    on my side! Jay was thrilled. I think he might be investigating behind my back. I can''t ask my parents


    for confirmation, I don''t want them to worry. So, you need to dig up some information for me. This is


    crucial. It''s the perfect catalyst. I can''t afford any mishaps!¡±


    ¡°Consider it done!¡± Catherine called someone, and after a short conversation, she hung up and nodded


    at me, ¡°It''s set!¡±


    I sighed in relief, ¡°Now, I can get that money back.¡±

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125


    When Gevena arrived, she brought along Janice. They looked at me and immediately asked, "How are


    you? He didn''t give you any more trouble after he left, did he?"


    I filled them in on what had happened and Gevena pped in approval. "If it wasn''t for you saying we


    could still use her, I would''ve taken care of her myself, let her have a taste of real life," she said.


    "We can take our time. She''s a great weapon to use against Marissa!" I hinted.


    Janice sighed heavily, full of regret. "If my sister was as smart as you, she wouldn''t be in her current


    state, caught between life and death."


    I gave a bitter smile. "After a close brush with death, how could I not learn my lesson? In a way, your


    sister is luckier than me. Irving only married Olivia, while Jan brought me a whole group of


    mistresses who want to kill me. If I didn''t fight back, I''d be chewed up in no time."


    We all shared a knowing smile and Gevena suggested, "Let''s go somewhere to sit and talk. This is


    hardly the ce for a discussion."


    We were just about to leave when Janice suddenly pulled me back. I followed her gaze and felt a surge


    of joy.


    At the same time, Catherine spotted two people not far away andughed yfully, "Oh my, what do


    we have here..."


    Gevena reacted the fastest, quickly dragging us into a boutique. She whispered something to a


    salesgirl, who then hurried off.


    The store manager recognized Gevena and quickly invited us to sit down, pouring us each a cup of


    coffee.


    Twenty minutester, the salesgirl came running back, handing her phone to Gevena. Gevena thanked


    her and opened a video on the phone, casually cing it on the coffee table.


    We all crowded around to watch.


    The video showed Marissa, who I had just seen, being held by a tall, young man. He was quite


    handsome, but his demeanor screamed ''scoundrel''. He wasughing flirtatiously with Marissa, his


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    hand wrapped around her inappropriately.


    "Are you sure about this one?" Marissa asked, her voice full of charm.


    "Honey, I love the color blue!" the man replied, his voice sounding rather pleasant.


    Upon hearing this, Marissa nced at him approvingly and told the salesgirl, "I''ll take the blue set."


    The salesgirl beamed, quickly wrapping up the clothes Marissa had chosen andplimented, "Miss,


    you have great taste. This gentleman is perfectly suited for this color. It''s too sophisticated for most


    men, but it enhances his good looks."


    Janice snorted disdainfully, "What a tterer! This is nothing more than a gold-digger."


    The salesgirl quickly suggested, "Miss, why don''t you pick out a light-colored tie? Our ties are of the


    highest quality and they would go perfectly with this suit."


    In the video, Marissa nced at the tie section and the man quickly agreed. They walked over to the tie


    section, which was filled with a dazzling array of ties. The man picked out an ivory-colored tie, which


    was quickly wrapped up by the sales girl.


    The salesgirl then suggested, "Miss, why don''t you take a look at our shoes? They''re very important to


    the overall look and can enhance or diminish the impact of the suit."


    I had to give the salesgirl a thumb up, because she was a great at her job.


    Marissa seemed hesitant, replying in a nomittal tone, "Maybe next time. We have other errands to


    run."


    The man immediately cozied up to her, pleading softly, "Honey, I really don''t have shoes that match this


    suit. Could you... help me out?"


    Marissa gave him a sidelong nce, her smile a bit strained. The man quickly spun her around,


    directing her attention to the shoe section.

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    Chapter 126


    And just like that, Marissa was passively led along, browsing the selection before the man pointed with


    his long fingers, "How about this pair, honey?"


    Marissa could only nod, "Sure, let''s take this pair."


    "Sir, you have excellent taste. This pair is ourtest arrival, a limited edition, we only have two pairs!"


    The sales associate cheerfully picked up the shoes and handed them to another associate, "Quickly


    pack these for the gentleman!"


    Then she gestured again, "There''s also..."


    Marissa red at her with displeasure, "We''re in a hurry, we don''t have time!"


    The man''s eyes dimmed slightly, but he still managed a smirk, pinching Marissa''s waist. Marissa threw


    him a flirtatious nce, clearly impatient.


    We all felt goosebumps at the sight.


    "Gosh, they''re so cheesy! I can''t believe how luxurious their life is!" Catherine couldn''t help but blurt


    out.


    She then turned to me,ining, "Look at them, Allie. You spend your money on all these


    freeloaders! The government should award you for your contributions!"


    Gevena and Janice couldn''t hold back theirughter. Gevena added, "You truly deserve it, no doubt


    about it!"


    I frowned, "An award isn''t necessary, but I''m about to hit the jackpot, that''s for sure."


    Damn it, luck was on my side. I had been thinking about getting Marissa''s car back this morning, and


    now the opportunity had presented itself.


    The three of them looked at me in surprise and asked in unison, "What do you mean?"


    I leaned in and whispered my n to them. After listening, they pped in approval.


    Gevena pped her hands, "Let''s go, we need to find a ce to rx. Even the mistress knows how to


    enjoy life, we should also take a break. Let''s go, my treat!"


    "I''ll take care of it. That Dawson slug is feeling generous today, he said to treat Gevena to a fancy


    ce, spare no expense!" I stood up, "Hand me your card!"


    "That''s your money, not his!" Catherine protested.


    I red at her, "Don''t worry, I''m gradually reiming everything."


    Gevena sent the video to me, "Keep it, it''ll be useful!"


    I nodded, "This is extremely useful, a perfect bait."


    We allughed knowingly. After thanking the store manager and the previous attendant, the four of us


    left the mall.


    Gevena took us to a newly opened beauty salon. The beauty treatments were myriad and varied, they


    could pamper you from head to toe. For the sake of privacy, Gevena booked a four-person room, and


    we indulged in a full package of treatments.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    As I enjoyed the masseuse''s skilled hands, I teased Gevena, "Isn''t this much better than letting some


    gigolo have his way?"


    They all burst intoughter. Janice rubbed her belly, "Don''t say such things, there''s a little one here who


    can hear you! It''s not good for my baby!"


    "Get over it! This is early education, so he doesn''t end up on the wrong path!" Gevena replied


    disdainfully.


    "Whatever, my son will never stoop so low as to be a gigolo, how is that going down the wrong


    path?" Janice always had a sharp tongue.


    I chuckled to myself, they all turned to look at me, and I gave them a mysterious smile, "I''ve figured out


    a way to stir up trouble within the Dawson family, all thanks to Marissa''s pretty boy!"


    Janice was immediately intrigued, "You mean...?"


    Gevena quickly coughed and told the masseuses, "Take a break, bring us some food, and continue


    I understood Gevena''s intention immediately, seeing the eager expressions on the masseuses'' faces. I


    sighed in relief, almost slipped up. These people can''t be trusted to keep a secret.


    The masseuses paused their work and left the room.


    I then whispered, "Dawslug has fallen into the trap! Catherine, you know what I mean!"


    Catherine immediately sat up, looking energized, "Are you serious?"

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    Chapter 127


    I nodded and chuckled, "That seems to be the case. He''s been having intermittent fevers recently, and


    he''s been especially irritable, even towards his own mother!"


    "Whoa!" Catherine nearly bolted upright from her chaise lounge, "Damn, that''s satisfying!"


    Gevena and Janice exchanged puzzled nces, pressing for more details, "What''s going on? You''re


    talking in riddles. Spill the beans!"


    Catherine could hardly contain her glee as she whispered the details to them, their faces instantly


    turning pale with shock, "Are you serious? That''s... that''s too..."


    "Too what? He brought this upon himself! He always messed around with all kinds of women, and it¡¯s


    normal that he got some dirty illness. This kind of way is way better than being caught off guard,


    wouldn''t you agree?"


    "Damn, it''s terrifying when you think about it!" Janice shivered as she asked me incredulously, "Is this


    for real?"


    I nodded emphatically, "It''s real! Gevena is right, if I were to be passive, I''d be a sitting duck!"


    "Oh my god! Then..." Catherine muttered gleefully.


    I shushed her, whispering, "We have to let Marissa take the fall for this. She deserves it, otherwise


    Dawslug might get suspicious!"


    "We''ll have to start with Jan''s mother then, that olddy is sure to put up a fight." Gevena


    suggested.


    Janice, gently caressing her belly, weighed in with a sly tone, "I''d say, we need to start with Dawslug."


    "You are saying, let Dawslug find out first?" Catherine inquired hastily, "Isn''t that too straightforward?


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    Such a juicy plot needs a bit of drama before the grand finale."


    "I think, letting Zora find out first would be more interesting. Who knows, she might even stir the pot


    more, making things even more entertaining!" Catherine said, her eyes twinkling with mischief.


    We all shared our opinions. After a moment of consideration, I said, "I think I''ll involve ra. She''s a


    troublemaker, and this would be a good test for her!"


    "Absolutely!" Catherine agreed with a devious grin, "Allie, I think I''ve found the perfect target for


    Marissa''s ''rich man with a tough wife'' scenario!"


    I perked up instantly, pressing her for details about this man.


    Catherine smirked, "This man''s wife is notorious in Goldenvale Town!"


    Janice shot a nce at Catherine and asked, "You''re not talking about Hertha, are you?"


    Catherine burst intoughter, pointing at Janice as she said, "See, I told you she''s famous! Yes, Hertha


    is exactly who I''m talking about!"


    "We shouldn''t mess with Hertha lightly, she''s a real character," Gevena warned.


    "But that''s exactly what we need! Trust me, we are not going to get our hands dirty, just fan the mes.


    Once the fire starts, I guarantee the whole of Goldenvale Town will be watching the drama unfold!"


    Catherine said excitedly, "It''s about time Marissa learned a lesson!"


    Gevena chimed in, "Hertha''s husband, Neal, is no saint. Rumor has it, he has some kinky habits... like


    BDSM."


    Janice quickly countered, "But the old man is willing to spend money!"


    Upon hearing this, I was intrigued and pressed Gevena for more details about Neal.


    Gevena revealed that Neal was once lived off women, handsome and charming. He wasn''t initially


    attracted to Hertha, but her influential background led him to bite the bullet and marry her. After years


    of ying the dutiful husband, he finally earned his father-inw''s trust and lived a decent life.


    However, he developed some unusual habits to vent his frustration over time, bing increasingly


    audacious. His father-inw is now old and powerless to control him.


    It''s often said, forbidden fruit is always the sweetest. Neal loved the thrill of affairs and even became


    addicted to it. He was always on the lookout for new conquests, spendingvishly on his extramarital


    escapades.


    As a result, Hertha became the ¡°tough wife¡±, making great efforts to thwart Neal''s affairs. But she could


    never catch up with Neal''s endless women. Therefore, the stories of Hertha''s battles were endless and


    ever-changing, bing more intense as time went on.


    I quickly told Catherine, "That''s our guy! Make sure Marissa knows him soon."

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    Chapter 128


    They offered me many ideas. By the time I got home, it was alreadyte. Jan was waiting for me,


    eager to know how my day had gone.


    Without giving away a thing, I went upstairs, changed into morefortable clothes, and then leisurely


    walked back down.


    I then nonchntly yed with the kids, leaving this Dawslug frantic with anticipation.


    Jan was like a fly buzzing around me all evening, until I was dizzy and had a splitting headache.


    On top of this, Carl was stubbornly asking for Zora before bed. He even hit me, crying for his ''mommy''.


    I was his real mother, and I would definitely make him acknowledge that.


    After what felt like an eternity, I finally got him to sleep. Exhausted, I retreated to my room, only to find


    Jan freshened up, ready for bed, and looking at me lovingly. I felt nauseous.


    I hesitated before approaching the bed. As soon as I did, he lifted the covers and softly asked, "Honey,


    you''re tired, aren''t you? Come, rest a bit. You''ve worked hard."


    I snorted dismissively, thinking to myself that I was more than tired.


    As soon as I got into bed, he moved closer. I shed him a cold stare and asked, "What are you up to?"


    He tried to snuggle up to me yfully, but I sat up abruptly, "Jan, just say what you want to say.


    Don''t try to bribe me!"


    Caught off guard, he froze for a moment, but quickly recovered andughed it off, "Alright, alright, don¡¯t


    get mad. Come on,y down... Why are you always so angry?" He tried to coax me intoying down,


    expressing concern, "I''m just worried about how Gevena feels, you know?"


    ¡°Now you''re concerned about how others feel? I''m the one taking all the heat, cleaning up your mess,


    and I still get med when I get home. What do you think I am?¡±


    I reluctantlyid down and said, ¡°Sleep in the guest room, don¡¯t disturb my rest.¡±


    ¡°Honey, don''t be unreasonable. Married couples don¡¯t sleep in separate beds. You¡¯re almost fully


    recovered, can''t you see how ufortable I am? It¡¯s been years since we¡¯ve had a normal¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t take me for a fool!¡± I cut him off, ring up, ¡°I saw howfortable you were with Zora clinging


    to you!¡±


    He sat up abruptly, looking at me with a mix of surprise and anger, ¡°Don¡¯t be like this. She¡¯s just a


    nanny. What do you take me for?¡±


    ¡°I should be asking you that! I don¡¯t know what you are, but I sure know I¡¯m being taken for a ride.¡± I


    turned my back to him, confident that he wouldn''t push it.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I can¡¯t understand what you¡¯re doing!¡± Iined, ¡°Don¡¯t you understand it yourself?¡±


    Sure enough, within 2 seconds, he wrapped his arms around me again, ¡°Alright, I know you¡¯re tired. It¡¯s


    hard on you, having to socialize right after you¡¯ve recovered, and thene home to take care of the


    kids. That¡¯s why I haven''t fired Zora yet. She knows how to handle Carl¡­¡±


    I didn''t let him finish, turning around to give him a stern look.


    He quickly understood and shut up, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s drop it.¡±


    I snorted and decided to give him a break, ¡°Go to the business meeting first. We¡¯ll figure out the rest


    ¡°You¡¯re right! But I trust in your abilities. If only your health was better, we could go together. We¡¯d have


    a better chance of sess.¡± Jan ttered.


    I almost lost it, knowing how I had gotten sick in the first ce. He still had the audacity to say that to


    me. If I had a knife right now, I would stab him.


    But I held back my anger and reminded him, ¡°Gevena said there would be many overseas big buyers


    at the meeting. Make sure you''re well prepared and hire a good interpreter!¡±


    Jan quickly reassured me, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. We recently hired a senior executive, I''ve made


    him the deputy general manager. His is a pro!¡± He spoke with confidence.


    I rolled over and asked, ¡°Can we trust him? This is a rare opportunity. If we mess it up, we¡¯ll lose


    everything!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! He''s a returned overseas student. He won¡¯t have too much power!¡± Jan''s words rang


    true.


    A small smile tugged at the corner of my mouth. It seemed Logan''s n was working.

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129


    "When are you nning to head to Silverdale City?" Jan suddenly asked, "How about I apany


    you to see mom and dad first?"


    I turned to look at him, irritation clear in my voice, "What are you thinking, Jan? We promised the


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    kids we''d stay. Besides, they''ll be on break in a few days. It''s like you don''t care about them at all! And


    you know how shy Carl is around Helga, are you okay with that?"


    Jan simply shrugged, "We''ll just bring Carl along, and Probert and Helga will be fine. Or I''ll just ask


    my mom..."


    "Stop right there!" I cut him off, expressing my displeasure. "I don''t trust your mother! All she does is


    scold the kids!"


    Those were harsh words I never used to say directly but now, what was there to fear? He didn''t


    deserve mypliance anymore. Turning to Jan, I added insult to injury, "Oh right, your mother


    does know how to praise, she''s always praising Marissa''s son while she demeaning Probert in front of


    others. Can we really send Probert to her?"


    Jan''s face visibly darkened, left speechless. Seeing him trying to avoid the topic, I continued, "I don''t


    understand. Since I joined the Dawson family, I haven''t done anything to disgrace you, Jan. I have


    helped to buy a new house for your family, helped Jerome renovate his house and get married. I''ve


    paid Jesper''s tuition, and Jessica always has new clothes. I give her whatever I have." I counted on my


    fingers.


    Jan didn''t like what he was hearing, but he didn''t dare to refute.


    "Jan, I just don''t understand... why does your mother hate me? If I let my children go to your mother


    again, wouldn''t that be like letting her ruin my children?"


    This was deliberately said for Jan to hear. I wanted to disgust Jan thoroughly, and if I didn''t make


    the Dawson family turn over, my life would be meaningless.


    "Allie, don''t listen to others blindly. My mother just has a sharp tongue!" Jan defended.


    "Jan, this isn''t hearsay. I saw it with my own eyes. She cursed Probert worse than we could ever


    imagine. Tell me, what more do I need to do to make the Dawson family happy and curse me less?


    Can they stop wishing for my death?"


    Jan was left speechless, gaping like a fish.


    Having hit a nerve, I yawned contentedly, "Let''s sleep."


    I was genuinely tired.


    The night before the trip to the business meeting, Jan had another fever. I pretended to be worried


    and applied coldpresses to him, watching his dazed state, I said, "Maybe I should go instead."


    Jan immediately perked up, his feverish eyes filled with caution as he looked at me, "It''s okay, I''ll be


    fine after a night''s sleep! You know I''m worried about your health, honey. I''m okay, don''t worry!"


    "What if we go to the hospital? Why are you always getting sick? This can''t continue!" I reached out to


    feel his temperature, it was high.


    "I¡¯m fine, just get me some fever reducers and a couple of antibiotics, and I''ll be fine!" He patted my


    arm, "Please get me the medicine!"


    "Okay!" I turned to get the medicine, secretly thinking, I''m not going to the meeting for sure, if I did, the


    uing drama wouldn''t be able to y out.


    I asked Helga to fetch some water, and fed him the medicine. He fell into a deep sleep immediately.


    The next morning, his fever had subsided, and he looked like apletely healthy person,


    energetically getting into the car with the driver and leaving.


    I watched him leave until his car disappeared from my sight. I quickly reported to Gevena, she replied


    with an ''ok, all set''.


    Before I could go upstairs, my phone rang again. I picked it up to see Logan''s name.


    I smirked, answering, "Wow, where have you been, Logan?"


    "Allie, did you miss me?" He joked, then added, "I''ve been looking for Addrion for you!"


    Logan''s response left me shocked. Addrion was the person I wanted to find the most at the moment. I


    immediately asked eagerly, "Any news?"

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    Chapter 130


    "I don''t dare to ring you without any solid news, better youe here! I''ll send you the location!" His


    voice sounded weary. He hung up quickly after uttering those words, then sent me his location.


    I hurried upstairs to change, gave a quick exnation to Helga, and then headed straight to the


    location Logan had indicated.


    The ce he sent was quite remote. I drove for a solid hour and a half, far beyond the outskirts of


    Goldenvale Town, before the GPS finally informed me I''d reached the destination.


    I stepped out of the car to check the surroundings, feeling a bit hesitant. It looked like a fish hatchery,


    miles from anywhere, with only a simple prefab shed in sight, shabby and run-down. The air was thick


    with a fishy stench.


    I approached the shed cautiously, my heart pounding, half expecting that I''d gotten the location wrong.


    Perhaps alerted by the sound of my car, a figure emerged from the shed. Squinting, I recognized it as


    Logan. Relief washed over me at the sight of Logan. My steps quickened as I walked towards him.


    Logan, ever the rogue, raised an eyebrow at my arrival and let out a whistle. If I didn''t know him as well


    as I did, I''d think he was up to no good.


    I moved closer, looking at him in confusion, "Don''t tell me, Addrion is here!"


    No sooner had the words left my mouth, another figure emerged from the shed. I froze in my tracks, my


    eyes glued to this new arrival.


    If it weren''t for his distinctive face and deep-set eyes, I wouldn''t have recognized him. The man


    standing before me was barely recognizable as the Addrion I once knew.


    The Addrion I remembered was tall and dashing, bright and capable, a man who seemed unstoppable.


    But the man standing before me was a shadow of his former self. His skin was rough and he was thin,


    his body slightly hunched. A gruesome scar marred his familiar face, his cheeks hollow, and his eyes,


    once so full of life, nowcked their former sparkle.


    I stood there, frozen, as a wave of disbelief washed over me. I turned to Logan, seeking confirmation.


    The man I''d been staring at blinked, his eyes misting over for a moment before clearing. A faint light


    flickered in them, "Aaliyah!" He was the first to speak. At the sound of my name, I rushed forward,


    grabbing hold of him, " Adri, is it really you? Adri, you...you...how did you end up like this? You..." Tears


    welled up in my eyes, choking off my words.


    Addrion''s lips twitched as he watched my tears fall, quickly averting his gaze.


    "Allie, you two are unlucky as hell!" Logan interjected, ever the instigator, "Thank god you are both still


    alive!"


    Addrion gently patted my back, pointing towards a bench outside the shed, "Sit down! Stop crying!"


    I clung to him, unwilling to let go, unable to believe the reality unfolding before me, "Bro Adri, how did


    you end up like this, what happened to you?"


    "Hey, it''s a long story! Sit down, stop crying! Be grateful I''m still alive, that you can still see me alive!"


    Addrion''s voice held a mixture of emotions; regret, mncholy, sadness, resignation, and a hint of joy


    for having escaped death.


    Logan pulled a wooden stump over to sit on, while Addrion gently guided me to sit on the bench. He


    then flipped a stic bucket over to sit on.


    I kept my eyes fixed on him, desperate to find some trace of the man I once knew. But all I saw was


    hardship, brutality, and sickness.


    I couldn''t begin to imagine what had happened to him in thest two years.


    Logan was the first to break the silence, "Allie, save your energy! Crying won''t change the past, focus


    on the present! Both of you escaped death, it''s not something to cry about, right?"


    I sniffed, still staring at Addrion, "Bro Adri, what happened to you? Tell me, did it have anything to do


    with me?"


    The moment I saw Addrion, I had a bad feeling. I was sure his ordeal was somehow linked to me or to


    Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    Addrion gave a sheepish smile at my question, avoiding my intense gaze, and began to speak slowly.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131


    His voice was as steady as a calm sea, devoid of any emotional upheaval, "How should I put it? It''s a


    bit of both, yes and no."


    Impatient for answers, I pressed, "What do you mean by yes and no? Just spit it out. I can handle


    whatever the truth is. I narrowly escaped death once, and now all I have left is a thirst for retribution.


    Tell me the truth, Addrion. I need to know."


    Upon hearing my plea, Addrion gazed at me, steadying his emotions for a while before he spoke again,


    "Indeed, all the misfortunes I have endured are directly linked to the Dawson brothers. They schemed


    against me, resulting in my expulsion from Medsafe Liyah Inc. However, the story doesn''t end there."


    "Start from the beginning! I want to know everything." I was desperate to understand what had


    transpired with Addrion all those years ago.


    Lowering his gaze, Addrion rubbed his hands together nervously, seemingly unsure where to begin, as


    if the memories were too painful to revisit.


    After what felt like an eternity, he lifted his eyes and began his story, "After you handed over Medsafe


    Liyah Inc. to Jan, at first, he seemed quite dedicated. He was respectful to all of us managers,


    treating us with the utmost courtesy. Back then, Jan was humble, taking charge of every single task,


    familiarizing himself with thepany from the ground up. After getting a solid understanding of the


    suppliers, distributors, and customers!"


    I listened quietly, eager to know every detail.


    "But things changed when they returned," Addrion''s expression morphed into one of contempt.


    I understood immediately. Marissa had woven her web.


    "The first one to be targeted was Farris, the financial director. All the transactions were controlled and


    major decisions were made by Jan, executed and overseen by Marissa.


    Naturally, this didn''t sit well with Farris, who raised his objections and discussed the issue with Jan


    several times. However, Jan continued his autocratic ways.


    Later, an error in a financial transaction urred, and Farris was dismissed on this pretext. Unwilling to


    ept this, Farris stormed the board meeting, only to be physically assaulted that very night." Addrion


    clenched his fist, "You know, Farris is a very stubborn and dedicated person. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have


    rmended him to you in the first ce!"


    I nodded. Farris, the financial director of Medsafe Liyah Inc., was actually Addrion''s cousin. This was a


    secret only known to me and Addrion. Farris was incredibly diligent, not even Addrion could misuse the


    "Later, Farris secretly told me about his suspicions regarding Jan and Marissa. I didn''t fully believe


    him at first, especially since you had asked Marissa to assist Jan before you left. I knew about that."


    I let out a bitterugh, "I didn''t realize how naive I was until now!"


    Addrion shook his head, "You can''t me yourself. People can be unpredictable."


    "What happened next?" I was growing impatient.


    "Things didn''t stop with Farris'' leave. On the contrary, one by one, managers and directors were


    suppressed without exception. By then, Marissa wielded significant power and her tactics were


    extremely ruthless. She individually held meetings with each of the managers and directors, demanding


    they relinquish control of their key operations, under the pretext that Mr. Dawson wanted to fully


    understand the workings of Medsafe Liyah Inc." Addrion said gravely, "You know, we were very tight-


    knit, and we had secret meetings to generate some strategies. But whoever took the lead was


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    targeted!"


    "Those bastards!" I couldn''t help but curse.


    "I tried reaching out to you and even visited your home, but Jan was the one to receive me. He told


    me you had gone abroad!" Addrion looked at me, "I was truly worried then."


    "But I didn''t go anywhere!" I told Addrion, "They drugged me, and all I did was sleep day in and day


    out!"


    Addrion continued, "I was worried, so I called off their resistance and advised them to voluntarily


    surrender control of their key operations, to see how things would unfold. But they were soon one by


    one ousted, reced by the Dawson family''s loyalists. I was bing increasingly isted and


    helpless!"

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    Chapter 132


    A look of loathing crossed Addrion''s face as he continued, "I was thest one they targeted. Marissa


    demanded I hand over my contacts for the external liaison, harbor, and the crucial yers in


    transportation. I was crystal clear and unwavering in my response. They couldn''t interfere with any of


    this because these were my personalworks. Particrly Harbor, I knew this had to be handled


    meticulously. I was determined to hold the line, no matter what."


    I could fully empathize with how Addrion felt at the time. It was our lifeline, after all.


    "Jan was fairly decent to me. He didn''t dispute my refusal. Instead, he valued my role. After a one-


    on-one chat with me, not only did he give me a raise but also assigned me an assistant. To convince


    me, he let me choose who I wanted. I picked a smartd named Nathan."


    I nodded, "I remember him!"


    "Thisd was exactly what I wanted, bright,petent, and hardworking. Marissa also showed me


    respect, often referring to me as ''Bro Adri''. Jan always had Marissa contact me, saying that I could


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    just discuss certain matters with Secretary Marissa. I had already sensed that Marissa was no simple


    character and wanted to warn you, but all my calls went unanswered."


    "Maybe our downfall started with those unanswered calls. I was so ill at that time, barely hanging on.


    Jan, and sometimes Marissa, controlled all themunication. I was practically a walking corpse.


    Jan even managed to get my nanny on his side and had me under surveince. Even my own


    children started to avoid me."


    "That makes sense!" Addrion said, as if a light bulb had just been turned on. He sighed and continued,


    "That''s when Marissa''s hassles started to pile up, creating all sorts of problems for me. But what


    shocked me the most was finding contraband in our shipments. They conveniently pinned all the me


    on me.


    Marissa insisted she had no idea about that particr set of orders, iming it was only signed by me


    and she never saw it. The inspection procedure forms were indeed signed by me, the handwriting was


    unmistakably mine!


    Only Nathan and I knew about the shipment records that day. Nathan insisted that I told him to pick up


    the goods and not to report to Secretary Marissa. This left me with no room to defend myself. I was


    arrested."


    By the time Addrion finished, his face was as pale as a ghost. Even after all these years, the memory


    still haunted him. It was easy to imagine how devastated he must have felt back then.


    "I had a simr experience. Somehow, I signed a power of attorney for Medsafe Liyah Inc. I had no


    recollection of it! But the handwriting was definitely mine."


    "There must be some trickery involved!" Addrion dered, "I absolutely do not recall signing any


    shipping orders that day. But one thing is certain, Nathan was working for them."


    With a look of regret and helplessness, Addrion shook his head, "I still can''t believe it, thed I thought


    so highly of... I just don''t understand why he would do such a thing."


    "You guys can stop guessing. There is a substance called hallucinogen. You might not know about it,"


    Logan interjected, "This substance can make you do anything the maniptor wants, without you


    having any memory of it. Given Jerome''s involvement in the ck market, it wouldn''t be hard for him to


    get his hands on it."


    "What happened after that?" I asked, my heart in my mouth. "How long were you locked up?"


    "I was in for less than a year, but in that time I was constantly beaten, old injuries never had the chance


    to heal before new ones were inflicted. I finally gave in. But that''s when the real nightmare began."


    Addrion''s eyes closed, a sheen of tears visible.


    Tears welled up in my eyes. I never thought I''d see the day when Addrion would cry.


    Slowly, Addrion''s red-rimmed eyes opened, "And so the nightmare began!"

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    Chapter 133


    My eyes were wide, glued to Addrion''s face, waiting for him to continue, not daring to interrupt.


    "I was pulled from jail, ready for the long sentence ahead, but in the middle of the journey, I was


    mysteriously shipped off to Northern Myanmar!"


    Addrion''s voice was rough, a tear trickling down from the corner of his eye, hanging on his stubbly chin,


    glistening and clear, refusing to fall.


    "Northern Myanmar?" I repeated, confusion etched on my face.


    At this moment, I hadn''t fully grasped the weight and terror attached to the name.


    His face was grave and filled with dread, "Yes, Northern Myanmar!"


    I was skeptical, turning to Logan for confirmation. He looked just as grim, hinting me to press on. "And


    then what?"


    Addrion fell silent for a long while, his chest heaving as though he was trying to calm himself.


    "In Northern Myanmar... What happened?" I asked cautiously.


    "It was a den of horrors, a living hell." His face matched his words perfectly, instilling a sense of fear


    that was hard to shake off.


    "Everyone there was treated like less than human. There were countless industrial parks, but they were


    essentially scamming factories."


    I gasped, shooting a nce at Logan, who gave a firm nod.


    "Those who were shipped there, the younger ones, were put through intensive training. Then, they


    were grouped together to run telephone scams, the slightly older ones were made to do manualbor


    and various logistical services. The elderly were sent straight to the ughterhouse!"


    As Addrion spoke, his hands balled into fists, shaking slightly. It was a clear reaction born of fear.


    "ughterhouse?" I asked, puzzled.


    "They''d harvest all usable organs from the people there, then sell them on the ck market!" Logan


    took over, answering my question. "The ughterhouse is where these organs are harvested."


    "What?" My eyes were wide, staring at Addrion who was struggling to keep his emotions in check.


    "Yes, that''s exactly how it is!" Addrion replied, managing to keep his voice steady. "Once you''re in


    there, you lose all freedom, any resistance would result in a slow, torturous death. It''s horrifying."


    A chill ran down my spine.


    "Not only that, they would extort from the families of these people until they''ve squeezed everyst


    penny from them. The only way out is death."


    Addrion lowered his gaze, tears streaming down his face. He was weeping silently and I couldn''t bear


    to think about what he had experienced.


    Logan pulled out a pack of cigarettes from his pocket, lit one, and handed it to Addrion.


    Addrion took a long drag, then slowly exhaled. His voice raspy, he continued, "I had no idea why I


    ended up there. I resisted and got beaten up until I lost a kidney."


    "What?" I stood up abruptly, stunned, staring at Addrion. The man in front of me was a far cry from the


    confident, charming Adri I once knew.


    He gave a self-deprecatingugh, took a puff of his cigarette. "I got off easy, I refused to admit that I


    had a family. Even if they killed me, it would only be me. I just wanted to die, but they wouldn''t even let


    me have a quick death. They''d torture all people, bit by bit."


    He extended his left hand towards me, two fingers missing from his once slender hand. It was a


    horrifying sight.


    I broke down, slumping onto the wooden bench, tears rolling down my cheeks. "Bro Adri... I''m sorry! It''s


    all my fault! If I hadn''t dragged you into this, you wouldn''t have suffered like this. I shouldn''t have let go


    of Medsafe Liyah Inc. I..."


    Addrion looked at me, his eyes blurred with tears. "Aaliyah, it''s not your fault. This was just a disaster


    waiting to happen in my life."


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Later, I met someone else from Goldenvale town. He took care of me in secret, advised me, told me to


    endure. I had no choice but topromise, to continue living."


    "No wonder I couldn''t find your contact information anywhere," I said, choking back sobs. "How did you


    escape?"


    "Escape? There''s no chance or possibility of escape there!" Addrion nced at Logan. "It was...


    Logan''s men... who saved me!"

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    Chapter 134


    I looked at Logan in disbelief, "It was your guys who saved Adri?"


    Logan nodded, "We got lucky. Addrion''s survival was destined! Maybe it was part of his mission to help


    you take revenge!"


    His jest lightened the mood a bit.


    "How did they manage to do it? Do they have insiders in the police station? Otherwise, how could Adri


    have been sent to Northern Myanmar?" I was filled with suspicion and worry, "And how did you get out


    in the end?"


    "That''s a long story. I''ll tell you bit by bit," Logan said nonchntly, "We''ve already alerted the police.


    Let them handle the rest! Addrion has earned some merit by providing valuable clues to the authorities.


    You can rest assured, the police I''m talking about are absolutely trustworthy!"


    "But..." I looked at Adri, hunched and frail, "The price he paid is too high! Besides, from here to


    Myanmar? It all seems too unbelievable."


    "Let me put it this way," Logan exined, "In this case, Jerome is a key figure. He''s definitely the


    breakthrough. He''s connected to the ck market trade in Myanmar, but we still need to investigate


    how big of a fish he really is. So, Addrion can''t show up in public yet. That''s the police''s idea. He has to


    "But are you... physically okay?" I asked Addrion with concern. His condition didn''t look great, "You


    need to go to the hospital. I can help you get to Silverdale City Hospital. It''s safe there!"


    "Don''t worry, we''ve made arrangements. This is just a temporary stop. You might not need toe


    here next time," Logan reassured me.


    I looked at Logan with a lot of questions in my mind, "How did you find Adri? How did you know he was


    in Myanmar?"


    "Haha... That took a lot of effort!" Logan joked, clearly avoiding the question.


    Logan can be quite elusive. I knew asking more wouldn''t get me any answers.


    After that, Addrion didn''t talk about Myanmar anymore. Instead, he reigned in his emotions and asked


    me, "What about you? What happened? I want to hear it!"


    I recounted my ordeal to Addrion. His hands clenched into fists and his face hardened with rage, "Such


    a beast, treating his own wife like this! As long as I''m still breathing, this grudge must be avenged!"


    Then he asked me, "What do you want to do?"


    I shared my ns with him and he nodded, "I¡¯m in. Maybe I can help!"


    "Right now, Medsafe Liyah Inc. is filled with people from the Dawson family. And he has already


    transferred his assets. I must get them all back," I told Addrion, "But now, with Jan having Jerome''s


    support, I''m scared..."


    Adri gritted his teeth, "No matter how hard, we must get it back! We can''t let our Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    be a shield for those devils."


    "What do you mean?" I was confused.


    "Some of the money that''s been siphoned off might be funding those devils in Myanmar! It helped


    creating a bigger scam industry park for them.¡±


    Hearing Logan''s exnation, a chill ran down my spine, "They are rted to Myanmar!"C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    "You''ve hit the nail on the head!" Logan flicked his cigarette butt away, his face serious, "So we must


    get Medsafe Liyah Inc. back, cut off their funding, your n is correct. We must disrupt the rtionship


    between Jan and Jerome, then Jerome would lose his financial support.


    I''m working on putting pressure on Jerome from the outside, making him too busy to look after Jan.


    When the timees, you and the people I''ve arranged can work together, strike fast and hard, I


    believe we can seed."


    "What''s the name of the person you''ve arranged?" I had never asked this question before.


    "Caleb!" Logan said a name.


    I looked at Logan, "Jan went for an overseas negotiation meeting today. I n to take this


    opportunity to first reim the joint marital assets. If I can also cancel the mortgages, that would be


    perfect."


    Logan looked at me, and I told him the n Gevena and I had discussed. Logan snapped his fingers,


    "That''s actually a great idea! Let''s make this operation more realistic and meticulous!"

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    Chapter 135


    We chatted well into the afternoon before we had to reluctantly part ways.


    Before leaving, I stepped forward, tightly embracing Addrion''s slender frame. I said solemnly, "I''m sorry,


    Adri. I dragged you into this."


    Addrion didn''t say anything. He hugged me back, patted my back, and whispered, "As long as we''re


    still kicking, everything will be fine."


    I looked up at him. He gave me a bright smile that I hadn''t seen in a while. I asked him, filled with


    emotion, "At least you''re back, aren''t you?"


    He nodded seriously, saying in a spirited tone, "Yeah, I''m back! And I''ll fight alongside you!"


    I nodded, feeling empowered, waved goodbye to him, and got in the car without hesitation. I knew then


    that my n was genuinely underway. I was no longer fighting alone; I had a solid support system. I


    was out for revenge, for me, and for Addrion.


    Logan followed my car back to the city.


    I took the opportunity to ask him many questions about Jerome. He told me, "Jerome has stepped on a


    keeping him as a lead to reach the heart of the underworld."


    "Can''t believe that the Dawson family could produce such a menace!" I found it hard to believe that I


    fell into this trap. Even harder to ept was the fact that Medsafe Liyah Inc., which I had worked so


    hard to build, had be a cash cow for this den of thieves. I sighed, "The Dawson family is a bunch


    of scoundrels!"


    Logan chuckled at my statement, "You''re right. Jan is probably involved too. If he''s suspected of


    framing you for insurance fraud, then there might be an organization behind him!"


    "What?" I looked at Logan in shock, "There''s such an organization?"


    Logan nced at me, "Allie, you''ve been out of the loop for too long. The world is dangerous now, and


    there are many such organizations. You''ll see. But, you mentioned something that got me thinking."


    "What is it?" I asked Logan.


    "You said Jan isn''t that smart, and these actions don''t seem like his style. It made me realize that


    there might be someone advising him. That''s why he''s acting so recklessly!"


    "You mean someone is pulling his strings?"


    Logan exined, "As for Jan, we just haven''t found any concrete evidence yet. ording to the


    investigators, these organizations are very covert, careful, and have unique ways ofmunicating."


    Logan''s words reminded me of the group in Jan''s other phone.


    I quickly asked Logan, "Logan, there''s a group chat in Jan''s other phone with over 300 members.


    Their conversation seems nonsensical, and I didn''t understand it when I saw it. Could it be the


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    organization you mentioned?"


    Logan immediately looked at me seriously, "Do you remember the group''s name?"


    I was stunned for a moment, "Wait... it''s called..."


    I searched my memory for the group''s name. I remember feeling uneasy when I saw the name.


    Suddenly, I remembered and pped the steering wheel, "I remember now, it''s... High-rollers Hangout!


    That''s the name.


    I thought it was just a group of emerging entrepreneurs from Goldenvale Town, who like to call


    themselves ''high-rollers''. But I didn''t recognize anyone, so I was a bit puzzled."


    Logan''s eyes narrowed as he asked me seriously, "Can you get that phone back?"


    I nced at Logan, feeling excited, "I''ll have to wait until he returns. I can get it, but not for long."


    "You''re sure you can do it, right?"


    "It''s easy to handle Jan now that Zora is out of the picture," I confidently said.


    "I just need half an hour," Logan told me. "But you have to let me know in advance; I need to prepare


    something."


    "Okay, I''ll find a way to get it when hees back from the meeting and let you know in advance," I


    promised Logan.

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    Chapter 136


    Logan gave me a thumbs up, "Allie, you might''ve just done us a huge favor!"


    "Logan, are you sure you''re just a private detective?" I shot him a questioning look.


    There was something elusive about Logan, something that hinted he was more than just a private


    investigator. His demeanor today, his quick wit and the way he carried himself hinted at a man of


    authority.


    He shrugged nonchntly, "At least I can solve your problems."


    His words seemed to confirm my suspicions. I decided not to probe further but kiddingly said, "I''m just


    wondering how I''m going to pay you. I''m worried I might go bankrupt."


    Logan chuckled, "Let''s keep yourpany clean and legit first."


    "As long as I can get back what''s rightfully mine, I''m willing to give it all!" I earnestly pledged.


    I understood what he meant.


    "Don''t be so sensitive, Allie. Just remember why you started," heforted.


    We both fell silent.


    "By the way, Elbert rmended someone as a potential coborator. Do you know him? He said


    Catherine knows that person!" I suddenly remembered.


    Logan nced at me, raising an eyebrow, "If she knows him, I do too!"


    I side-eyed Logan. Why did it feel like everyone was talking in riddles? Did I know this person too?


    Without thinking, I blurted out, "I want to meet him in advance. After all, this isn''t just any coboration.


    I need to talk to him personally. If you guys know him, he must be reliable, but we still need to agree on


    terms, whether it''s coboration or just lending a hand."


    I had no intention of hiding anything from Logan. The kid was proving to be quite trustworthy.


    Logan nodded solemnly, "Understood!"


    I continued, "I need to know his requirements. If I can retrieve the assets this time, I will start the next


    step. I don''t want to see Jan one more day. And I''m sure he''s infected. He''s a threat to me and my


    kids. I have to get away from him as soon as possible."


    Logan pondered for a moment, "I got it! I know this person, you can trust him. I''ll arrange a meeting as


    soon as Jan returns!"


    Logan''s words made me doubt. Who was this person and what was his rtion with them? I was


    curious. But I held back my questions, fearing it might seem like I didn''t trust them.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    I sighed inwardly. Maybe I''d been sick for too long and was losing touch with society.


    Logan waved at me from his car before disappearing into the crowd, out of my sight.


    I checked the time and headed to school. Since I was early, I stopped at a caf¨¦ across the street for a


    coffee to calm myself and reflect on my encounter with Addrion.


    My heart ached for Addrion''s tragic situation. If I hadn''t insisted on marrying Jan, Addrion would


    never have faced such a cruel fate. I was d he was still alive. But life doesn''t give you "what ifs".


    Back in the day, Addrion and Ronan were close friends. They were ssmates who got along


    exceptionally well, even switching dorm rooms to be together. They were both members of the school


    basketball team, known as the "Dynamic Duo".


    When I first enrolled, it was these two who weed me to campus. Since Ronan was also from


    Silverdale City, I was closer to him.


    Addrion often teased Ronan, iming he only got attention because of Silverdale City. Ronan scoffed,


    saying that Addrion wouldn¡¯t get my attention even he was from Silverdale City.


    During that time, both of them were vying for my affections. However, Ronan was always a bit more


    subtle than Addrion - this could have something to do with their respective characters. And the first time


    I visited the salon where Jan worked, it was these two who apanied me.


    I remember the excitement leading up to the Christmas'' party and talent show. I was particrly thrilled


    as I was participating in the event and needed a new hairstyle. They both insisted on apanying


    me to the salon, and in the end, both of them did.


    That was when I first met Jan.

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    Chapter 137


    Eventually, Jan started asking me out. For the first time, both Ronan and Addrion were on the same


    page, sternly warning me to proceed with caution.


    In truth, my initial intention was to use Jan to stir up jealousy in Ronan. At the time, my heart was


    brimming with confused feelings, mostly for Ronan. The feelings I had for him werepletely different


    from what I had for Addrian and Jan.


    I had tried to hint at my feelings for Ronan multiple times, but for whatever reason, he never responded


    to it. Instead, he kept me at arm''s length, that made me confuse.


    Just when I was about to throw all caution to the wind and give myself onest chance, Ronan


    suddenly dropped out of school without a trace or warning. I rushed to Addrion for answers, but he said


    he couldn''t reach Ronan either. He had asked everyone who knew him, but no one could exin why


    he had suddenly left school. After that, Ronan just disappeared.


    This unexpected turn of events made me depressed. My first love had ended without a reason or


    closure.


    Countless times, I had pushed Addrion for answers. He told me he was just as clueless, unable to


    contact Ronan. But I didn''t buy it. Those two were thick as thieves, how could Addrion not know about


    Ronan''s whereabouts?


    I rashly used Addrion of lying and had a major fallout with him. Addrion quietly took the brunt of my


    usations, remaining by my side as always. But I was blind to his loyalty.


    Later, I decided to let go of the quest for answers. I believed that they must have been hiding


    something from me, something they didn''t want me to know. I felt deceived and distanced myself from


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Addrion. That''s when Jan swooped in.


    In hindsight, it''s clear as day. But at that moment, Jan''s devotion, his constant presence, came as a


    balm to me who suddenly felt ''betrayed'' - his attempts at being the protective boyfriend were off the


    charts. I was moved by his so-called sincerity.


    Looking back, it''s quiteughable how Jan''s constant attention and care seemed so genuine to me


    at the time. How widespread must his maniptions have been? I could tell from his sleazy photos that


    all his tactics to win over girls were tried and true.


    And Addrion, the moment he heard I had epted Jan, he came to me and told me he was


    heartbroken.


    But after that, he resolutely decided to follow me to the end, openly joining my Startup team. At the


    time, he was about to graduate. He didn''t attend any job fairs but chose to grind with me, running


    around every hospital in Goldenvale Town, earning the first real money of my life.


    That''s how Medsafe Liyah Inc. was born. To be honest, the foundation of Medsafe Liyah Inc. was built


    by Addrion. Without him, there wouldn''t be a Medsafe Liyah Inc. today.


    To me, Addrion is like my closest family, like a dear brother. In some ways, he''s given me more than


    Ronan ever did.


    He has been with me every step of the way, witnessing every inch of growth of Medsafe Liyah Inc., yet


    ended up this way. I owe him so much. I really wanted to p myself. How could I have been so blind


    and heartless, to fall for a guy like that, almost costing the lives of my loved ones?


    I took a sip of coffee, grounding myself back to reality. My priority right now is to bring down the


    Dawson family, take back Medsafe Liyah Inc. Because it not only belong to me.


    After finishing my coffee, I nced at the time and was about to leave when I caught sight of Jerome


    outside the window.


    I paused and sat back down. Why was he at the school at this time? My mind couldn''t help but think of


    Evan. A strange suspicion formed in my mind.


    I managed to suppress my curiosity, staring at the figure through the window. I saw him stride towards


    the school, stop at the entrance, call out to a teacher inside, exchange a few words, and in a few


    minutes, Evan came out.


    I raised an eyebrow. As I suspected, he was here to pick up Evan.


    Jerome effortlessly hoisted the kid onto his shoulders, and as he turned around, I saw a content smile


    on his face, radiating pure affection.


    I quickly snapped a picture with my phone. With this photo, I can definitely stir up some trouble.

 Chapter 138

    Chapter 138


    Truth be told, I was dumbstruck by the spectacle before me. Doubts began to stir in my heart. Why was


    every member of the Dawson doting Evan so much? Who on earth was his father?


    Every member of the Dawson n seemed to have a penchant for boys, but the infectious joy on


    Jerome''s face was beyond anything I''ve ever seen. It wasn''t the kind of smile you''d expect from an


    uncle, but he looked like a happy father.


    Jerome was a married man, his wife, Cami, an incredibly easy-going woman.


    However, I''d hardly ever seen this sister-inw of mine, let alone seen her in Jerome''spany. Even


    during holidays, she hardly visited the Dawson family home. And whenever she did, she''d help out in


    the kitchen without a word ofint.


    Jerome and Cami had a daughter, two years younger than my Monique. Being a girl, she hardly ever


    made an appearance at the Dawson family gatherings. I reckon it''s been about four or five years since


    Ist saw her.


    But this overflowing disy of fatherly affection from Jerome was new to me.


    Evan sat atop Jerome''s shoulders, a triumphant grin stered on his face. His little hands tightly


    gripped Jerome''s head. It was clear they were quite familiar with each other.


    I wanted to snap a few more photos, but by the time I regained my senses, it was toote. Jerome had


    already walked out of my sight, carrying the child on his shoulders.


    I quickly grabbed my bag and hurried down the stairs, leaving the caf¨¦. However, Jerome and Evan


    were nowhere in sight.


    No matter, one photo was enough to make my point.


    Soon, Probert came running up to me, a look of excitement on his face. He proudly announced that he


    had scored A+ in all his end-term exams.


    I quickly showered him with praises and asked him what he wanted to eat. With a hesitant look in his


    eyes, he asked, "Mommy, can I have a hamburger?"


    "Absolutely!" A pang of guilt washed over me. I had been neglecting my child. I was certain he''d never


    tasted a hamburger in the Dawson household.


    I took him to McDonald''s. We ate there and packed some to take home. Even Helga, our nanny, asked,


    "Ma''am, why did you bring back so much?"


    "Helga, Probert scored A+ in all his subjects this term. We all need to celebrate his sess! From now


    on, whenever Probert scores A+, we''ll celebrate. We won''t cook and he gets to order whatever he


    wants!" I said, winking at Helga.


    Helga immediately understood and showered Probert with praises. She even said, "Probert, you''re


    amazing. I can''t wait to bask in your sess when you grow up! You''re truly wonderful!"


    A look of pride that I''d never seen before spread across Probert''s cute face. He grinned confidently and


    said, "Next time, I want steak!"


    "Sure! We have to n ahead for that!" Helga''s face lit up with anticipation. Probert''s grin widened.


    I quickly invited Helga to join us for the meal. Our dinner has be ate-night snack!


    Helga chuckled and said, "I''d rather have a proper meal. This is kid''s food."


    I pulled her back, "Helga, let''s be kids for a day. Let''s indulge ourselves this once. I brought back a


    family meal. If we don''t finish it, it won''t taste goodter."


    Only then did Helga sit down to eat with us. Helga wasn''t much of a talker, but she was observant. She


    had quickly caught on to our family''s situation and was being extra kind to me.


    Suddenly, my phone buzzed. It was a message on WhatsApp.


    I grabbed a tissue and cleaned my hands before checking my phone. It was a message from ra.


    She had some news that I was unaware of. Jan had gone to the business meeting with Caleb and


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Jesper. Marissa had gone with them.


    I raised my eyebrows, feeling a bit choked up. How bold! They were tantly unting their


    rtionship. They should brace themselves for my wrath.


    I pondered for a moment before replying, "Pass this message on to your sister!"


    ra immediately sent me a mischievous emoji. Then she went silent.


    I was intentionally testing ra to see how she would react before entrusting her with a mission.


    After tucking the kids into bed, I fell onto mine, exhausted. As soon as I picked up my phone, I saw a


    video sent by ra.


    The angle wasn''t very good. It was obviously a sneakily recorded video.


    ra was on the living room couch, her feet propped up, teasing Zora in a rather infuriating tone, "Hey,


    sis, isn''t it time to cook? I''m starving. How about some roast chicken with green beans today? Make


    sure it''s not too greasy. A sd would be nice too, with some dressing on the side!"

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    Chapter 139


    The words sessfully infuriated Zora. A roar of anger echoed from the video, "ra, don¡¯t push your


    luck. If you''re hungry, make your own food. Don''t treat me like your nanny! Plus, you better start looking


    for your own ce, you''ve got your own ie now, stop acting like the princess around here!"


    Zora appeared on the screen, a far cry from her usualposed demeanor. Her hair was loose, styled


    in waves, glittering earrings adorned her ears, she was wearing a sleeveless dress, and her nails were


    painted blood red.


    She crossed her arms and red at theid-back ra, warning her in a menacing tone, "Listen


    carefully, this is my ce, not yours!"


    Once her words fell, a scoffingughter from ra filled the room, "Oh, darling, wake up! You think


    you''ve got Jan wrapped around your finger? Tsk, tsk¡­ Is the house under your name? Take a look


    at the clunker you''re driving, it¡¯s so old. What about Marissa? She''s got a sports car, the luxury one."


    ra, with her sarcastic tone, was aiming right at Zora''s insecurities. She was deliberately provoking


    Zora. Before Zora could retort, ra continued, "You think you''ve got a home just because you have a


    ce to crash. I feel sorry for you! I''m worried for you since Jan took Marissa to the city for an


    overseas business meeting. And what about you?"


    ra kept referring to Marissa, her tone dripping with irony.


    As expected, Zora was disgusted, "Stop talking nonsense, no matter what, I''m better than you,


    freeloader!"


    raughed instead of getting angry, "Oh, you poor thing! You really can''tpare. You''re nothing


    more than a housemaid for his wife. What I did was not freeloading, but taking advantage of him, do


    you get it?"


    ra''s sharp tongue was something to be reckoned with.


    Angry, Zora grabbed a throw pillow and threw it at ra, "Shut the hell up!"


    ra dodged it, then grabbed the pillow and ced it between her legs, "Oh... now you''ve been kicked


    out, I''m honestly embarrassed for you, Zora. When you leave, don''t say I''m your sister, because I can''t


    face that shame!"


    ra''s words had meughing so hard, I could barely breathe. She was a wicked one indeed.


    Sure enough, Zora was left pale faced with anger. She took a step forward and yelled, "ra! Who the


    hell do you think you are?"


    I was like feeling the shockwave from her roar through the screen.


    "I''m nobody! Ever since you did all those things to me, I''ve wanted to be nothing. Being with you like


    this is just fine! God is being kind to me, letting me find my sister! I''ll cherish this chance! Mom said,


    you have a responsibility to take care of your little sister!" ra''s voice was gentle, not angry or upset,


    soft as cotton.


    "ra, you''re no better than me. Don''t think just because you slept with Jan that he''ll treat you


    differently. You better stop dreaming, I¡­¡± Zora seemed about to spill something, but she stopped


    herself in time. My attention was piqued, it seemed Zora had secrets yet to be revealed.


    She continued, "I have a better shot than you. Remember this, since I''ve been cruel once, I can be


    even more ruthless!"


    "Then let¡¯s see! I slept with Jan because, since he''s your hope, I wanted to show you that your hope


    is begging for me whenever I want. He''s no different than your Maddox." ra stated honestly, "TheBelonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    smartest thing about me is that I don''t daydream. I don''t care about my status, and it''s all thanks to you,


    isn''t it? You arranged for seven or eight guys to rape me at once, why not adding Jan on the list?"


    Hearing this, I didn''t know whether to pity ra or despise her. It seemed like there were factors driving


    her to be so ruthless.


    ra gave a cold smile, "When you saw that scene, did you find it thrilling? Zora, help me, no! Zora...


    please! I''m your little sister!''"


    Suddenly ra started yelling and struggling on the couch. I was taken aback, then I realized that she


    was re-enacting the words she screamed when those men raped her, and Zora did nothing to stop


    them.

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    Chapter 140


    After hearing ra''s words, tears filled my eyes.


    After calling out, ra chuckled and continued, "I''ve been calling you, but you''re acting like you didn''t


    hear me. Are you stunned? You should try it for yourself, and I promise you won''t be disappointed."


    Zora headed straight for ra, who was lounging on the couch. A fight was about to break out. But


    ra didn''t move an inch,pletely unfazed. She even dared to point at Zora, shouting, "If you dare


    hit me, Zora, you''re done for. I can get you arrested in a heartbeat. I have my backup just like you have


    your dumb buddy Maddox. Just try it, I dare you. In half an hour, I''ll have the cops at the door."


    ra swung her slim legs, pointing at her face, and she was confident in her threat.


    Zora''s hand, which had been raised, eventually dropped in defeat.


    raughed wickedly, "Zora, we''re sisters. Why do you treat me as your enemy? I''m doing this for


    your good."


    It hit me and I immediately sent ra the video of Marissa shopping with that kept man. Whatever Zora


    was up to, I could screw her anytime. This was a golden opportunity that I couldn''t miss.


    ra heard the beep and grabbed her phone. The image on the phone shook badly and settled on a


    corner of the ceiling. And then I heard raugh weirdly. She asked, "Zora, do you want my help?"


    She added mysteriously, "I''ve got some really useful information. After all, we are sisters, so we should


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    help each other. I can help you deal with Marissa. What do you say?"


    "What are you up to, ra? What are you nning?" Zora''s voice wasced with fatigue, evidently


    worn out by ra.


    "I won''t hurt you. I genuinely want to help you because you''re my sister, and unlike you, I don''t have a


    heart of stone. We''re rted." ra''s voice was filled with taunting, "I can give you something very


    valuable I just got. Don''t believe me?"


    I was sure ra had seen the video I sent and was now setting a trap for Zora, especially with the


    emphasis on the video being fresh.


    "Look!" The next second, the sound from the video of Marissa started ying, then abruptly stopped.


    "Give it to me." I heard Zora''s voice. She was clearly hooked.


    ra must have shown her a glimpse of the video and then stopped it. ra was sensible because


    this move was sure to convince Zora that ra had some powerful backup.


    "I''m hungry, Zora." ra''s coquettish voice came through the phone. "I can''t take it anymore because


    I''m famished."


    "You..." Zora was probably fuming. After a few seconds of silence, Zora''s voice came again, "Wait a


    moment."


    The sound of footsteps followed, and I was sure Zora had given in and gone to make some food. Then


    the video was cut off.


    I sent ra a message, "Be careful and delete our chat history. Zora can''t know where the video


    ra replied with two words, "Get it."


    I knew ra was sharp. This was the quickest and most direct way to get the video to Jan.


    Zora was impulsive. She would see this as her trump card and wouldn''t leave herself any room for


    retreat.


    An hourter, ra sent me a message, "She''s seen it, and she''s riled up. Now we wait and see."


    I couldn''t help but smile, imagining Zora''s expression when she saw the video. ra knew how to


    torment Zora, but I had to admit, she also had a knack for being endearing.


    Two dayster, Jan returned with a beaming smile on his face. Upon entering, he plopped down on


    the couch, even his fatigue seemed out of ce. He looked at me and said confidently, "Sweetheart,


    it''s done."


    I abandoned the aloof demeanor I had put on before he left and rushed over, excitedly asking, "Did it


    go well?"


    "More than well!" He said, full of confidence, and started teasing me, "Guess how well it went?"


    I yfully pped his leg, "Spill it, what happened?"


    Heughed triumphantly, pulling me into his arms and nting a kiss on my face. He then wanted to


    kiss me, but I pushed him away, "Don''t do that. Get to the point."

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    Chapter 141


    He looked at me with excitement, refusing to let me go. "This time it went really smoothly, like a knife


    through butter. We had a total of 120 foreignpanies attending the business meeting. They were all


    carefully selected, and quite powerful with substantial funds. Many of them are quite interested in


    medical equipment projects."


    "Really?" I feigned delight.


    "Absolutely! Our Dawson family has a significant foothold in the medical equipment industry, so they


    are very interested in us. Six of them are interested in coborating with us. Six, what a lucky number!"


    Jan couldn''t hide his joy, gesticting wildly as he recounted the sessful negotiations.


    I watched his antics, understanding clearly that this was his element. They, the Dawson family, love this


    kind of unting and superficiality.


    "Before the end, we reached an agreement. They will form a delegation to visit our city and inspect our


    city first."


    Jan couldn''t contain his joy and said, "Caleb did a great job this time. His speech was absolutely


    fantastic. He was a true talent. To grow a business, we need the talented, and we need to be brave


    enough to employ the talented."


    I snorted silently. Nice words. He only just realized this. Of course, Caleb was not like the good-for-


    nothing Dawsons. He was worth a hundred of them. In no time, Jan would know Caleb''s even


    greater abilities.


    "Who did you take with you this time?" I suddenly asked, changing the subject.


    Jan froze, then replied, "Jesper and Caleb, and two secretaries who can prepare documents at any


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    time."


    "OK." I nodded, pretending I didn''t know anything. "When are theying to visit thepany?"


    "It will take about a week to visit the keypanies in the state arranged by the state leaders after the


    meeting. Honey, do you think we should take them to visit our production base?"


    "It depends on their request. If they ask for it, we should choose two production bases with excellent


    qualifications andrge scale in advance. If they don''t ask, don''t arrange it." I gave my suggestion.


    I was very confident about our partners. When I was in charge, our coboration was very harmonious.


    I was well aware that Jan excelled in handling the more superficial aspects. He was always a sweet


    talker.


    "You''re right, we should avoidplicating matters further. Doing business these days is challenging


    enough, and without my constant supervision, those manufacturers are always trying to stand out."


    Janined, "I''ll have to straighten them out after I get to work with foreignpanies this time."


    I knew exactly what Jan meant when he said he was going to straighten them out. I had a feeling


    that he must have used some means on those manufacturers, otherwise, he wouldn''t have said these


    words. With Jerome backing him, he wouldn''t do any good.


    We chatted untilte. Jan was still excited. I suggested softly, "You''ve been busy for several days, so


    you should go take a shower. I''ll ask Helga to make you something nice to eat, then you should get a


    good night''s sleep. You''ll be busy in the next few days because of product introduction,pany


    qualifications... So much to do. The bigger the business, the more trouble." I got up when I was


    babbling, but he pulled me back, grinning and pinching my cheek, "Honey, I''m so lucky to have you."


    I smiled. If this were in the past, I would have felt unprecedented happiness, but now I knew he was


    talking nonsense. But the fact that he would be busy in theing days was definitely true, and the


    content of his work would certainly surprise him.

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    Chapter 142


    After Jan had showered and grabbed a quick bite, I managed to ask him into bed but he was


    insisting I join him. If I wasn''t aware of his sly antics, I would be moved by his tenderness.


    Even while sprawled on the bed, he boasted about his achievements at the meeting, his importance,


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    and how esteemed he felt. He was thirsty from all the talking and wanted to get up for a drink, but I


    gently held him down.


    "Rx, my hero," I said, "I''ll get some water for you."


    He looked at me with a cheeky grin, "Can you handle it?"


    "Of course," I replied, reassuringly. "I''ve been keeping fit. Fetching a ss of water is no big deal." I


    lovingly pushed him back onto the bed, "Wait here, and I''ll be right back."


    With that, I step out, soon returning with a ss of water and a pitcher for good measure.


    "Here you go," I offered casually, "I brought extra so you don''t have to keep getting up. Have you been


    eating too many pretzels or something?"


    "No, just been talking a lottely," he admitted, downing the ss in one go.


    I refilled his ss, chattering away, "You''re going to have your hands full now with prating the


    overseas market. We''ll need to start hiring for international orders soon."


    "We can solidify our status as the industry leader by doing that." Jan gloated.


    "Well then, get some sleep." I advised, climbing into bed myself, "I''m a bit tired myself. I feel like an old


    run-down car, ready for the scrapyard."


    Janughed at myment, reaching over to hold me. I pushed him away, "Sleep, and stop


    messing around. You are energetic."


    "Alright, let''s sleep," he agreed, facing me, "If we secure this deal, we''ll be the talk of the town, not just


    in Goldenvale Town but in the entire industry."


    I scoffed, teasing him, "You''re different from everyone else. While they seek wealth, you seem to seek


    fame. The best thing you can do is to return the money from our joint ount. Don''t forget, and the


    deadline is in a week. Don''t take my words lightly."


    "Honey, you''re such a money-grubber." He jested, "Once we get these international orders, won''t you


    have your money?"


    "Don''t make empty promises," I warned, "I mean what I say. Either I return to thepany, or you


    return the money. It''s your choice." I was adamant about this.


    Jan grumbled, "You''re obsessed with money."


    "You''re right. I love money. Why else would I run a business? Just for the prestige?" I retorted, "Don''t


    the Dawsons need money for their needs?"


    "Absolutely! My dear, you''re thedy luck of the Dawson family." He was in high spirits, finding


    everything amazing.


    I watched him. Goodness, he was on cloud nine.


    "Even those who barely know us are using my money." I hinted, "I''m benefiting the whole human race."


    He pinched my nose and said, "Stop talking nonsense. You are always so snarky."


    "Let''s sleep. I''m tired." I yawned, pretending to settle in for the night.


    "Alright, sleep," he agreed, soon falling silent.


    "Jan?" I whispered, testing if he was asleep. No response.


    I waited a while longer, then nudged him with my foot, "Honey, are you asleep?" Still no response.


    Quickly, I slipped out of bed and hurried to his study. There it was, his bag with both his cell phones. He


    must have been so excited that he''d forgotten about them.


    I grabbed my phone and dialed a number. He picked up immediately and said, "I''m at the door."


    "Got it!" No time for small talk, and I hung up, grabbed his bag, and dashed downstairs.

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    Chapter 143


    Stepping out of the front door, I made my way across the street where the faint dim of a car''s


    headlights shed from the shadows of the tree-lined road. Without hesitation, I sprinted towards the


    vehicle, opened the car door, and climbed in.


    The moment I shut the car door, I handed the bag to Logan, who was waiting inside the car. "Both are


    here," I eximed.


    Without needing the passcodes, Logan took the bag, pulled out the cell phones, and swiftly unlocked


    them. His sharp mind never ceased to amaze me.


    With a practiced ease, he quickly identified the private phone and browsed through its data which was


    beyond mypetence. He then opened the back cover of the phone, ced a thin metal chip inside,


    and managed to restore it to its original state in no time.


    After a quick test to ensure everything was working as it should, he set the phone aside and turned to


    me. "Does he always keep his bag close?" he asked.


    "Most likely." I nodded in response.


    Logan picked up the bag, inspected it, and then ced a tiny device into one of thepartments.


    "All set." Logan handed the bag back to me.


    "Is there a problem with that group chat?" I asked anxiously.


    "We''ll have to monitor them for a while, so I can''t say for sure yet." Logan answered honestly, then


    added, "By the way, I can arrange a meeting with the partner you''ve been wanting to meet tomorrow. Is


    that okay?"


    "That''s fine. Whenever you can arrange it, I''ll be ready," I said, excitement bubbling within me. "Is


    Addrion still there?"


    "He''s not. He''s been admitted to the hospital for treatment. His health is in much worse condition than


    yours," Logan replied, "But don''t worry about him, I''m sure he''ll be back on his feet soon. You should


    be back now, just in case he gets suspicious."


    "No worries, they''ll sleep at least 4 hours. I''ve got it covered." I assured him confidently, "Could you do


    me another favor? I want to dig deeper into the rtionship between Marissa and Jerome, and whose


    son is that kid? I saw Jerome picking up the kid. I have a feeling there''s something behind this."


    "OK." Logan agreed readily.


    "I have a photo of him picking up the kid, and I''ll send it to you." I found the picture from my phone and


    sent it to Logan.


    Logan nced at the photo, nodded, and said, "Alright, I''ll look into it."


    After thanking Logan, I left the car, hurried upstairs, and carefully reced the bag as it was. When I


    returned to my room, Jan was sound asleep, not having moved an inch.


    The next day.


    Jan headed off to work, bright and early, while I dropped off the kids and then made my way to the


    agreed location to meet my business partner.


    I felt an odd mix of anxiety and anticipation, but mostly curiosity. It seemed like everyone knew this


    person and had a good rtionship with him, and I felt like an outsider. I was eager to meet him.


    The mystery would soon be unraveled.


    Our meeting ce was the same club where I had met Mr. Elbertst time. I arrived a bit early, so


    instead of heading straight in, I decided to take a stroll along the seafront. The gentle sea breeze was


    incredibly soothing. I had visited this beach with Catherine before and fell in love with it instantly. It was


    strange, but every time I came here, I felt like I was being watched, even though I never saw anyone.


    This area was a bit far from the city center and was part of a newly developed seaside district, mostly


    The previous time I came here was the first time visiting this ce. Before I fell ill, this ce hadn''t


    been developed yet, but now it was such a picturesque spot, like a paradise on earth.


    Since it was still early, there were hardly any people on the beach. I found afortable seat under a


    palm tree and took a deep breath of the fresh, salty air. It was bliss.


    I sighed softly, trying tofort myself. There was nothing to regret. Once everything was over, I would


    take the kids, find a peaceful ce by the sea in full bloom, and bring my parents there to live a tranquil


    life.


    With time to spare, I video-called my parents, but only my mom answered. She said my dad had gone


    to VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals.


    Through the screen, my mom scrutinized me, confusion filled her eyes. "Honey, are you really okay?


    Why are you still so weak? Where are you?"


    She fired question after question at me, "Are you alone? Is it okay for you to talk?"

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    Chapter 144


    I quickly nodded and replied, "Certainly, it''s just me. I''ve arranged to meet a friend here, so I came a bit


    earlier to enjoy the beach for a while."


    As I spoke, I panned my camera across the ocean.


    "Mom, I''m really okay. There''s nothing wrong with me. I''m sick because I''ve been at home too long and


    I don''t get enough exercise." I said with a bright smile.


    My mother''s eyes welled up, and she sighed, murmuring, "You should have never gone so far away.


    You should have stayed close to us."


    "There''s no use talking about what should or shouldn''t have been. Apart from not seeing you guys


    often, everything is great." I said, forcing a smile before quietly asking with a mysterious grin, "Mom, did


    Dad really buy many houses on Oldtown Avenue?"


    "Of course he did, you know your father. When he decides on something, no one can stop him. He just


    does what he wants without consulting anyone else." Mom said, her face beaming with pride. "He had


    nned this for a long time. The development of Oldtown Avenue was all your dad''s proposal. It''s been


    many years, and now it''s finally been adopted." My mom got all excited talking about this. It was clear


    she was genuinely happy.


    "Dad''s proposal?" I was a bit astonished.


    Right after I got married, I always tried to persuade them to buy a house in Goldenvale Town and settle


    here. They would be closer to me, and we wouldn''t miss each other so much. My mom was tempted,


    but my dad was stubborn to refuse. He said he couldn''t bear to leave his hometown.


    I was angry back then, thinking there was nothing worth staying for in Oldtown Avenue. Just as my


    mom said, it was bing outdated. But my dad was stubborn, saying this was his hometown, and he


    wanted to stay there.


    No matter how much I tried to persuade him, he wouldn''t budge. I had no choice but to give up.


    Looking back, my dad''s vision was long-term. He was like a cunning fox. He not only protected his


    territory but also expanded it.


    I asked my mom, "Do we still have many shares in VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals? I didn''t know Dad had


    invested in VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals."


    "Your dad never discusses his ns with the family. His investment in VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals was a


    long time ago, even before you got married. He predicted that the pharmaceutical industry would be a


    long-term investment. He bought shares at the beginning, but... let''s not talk about it." She suddenly


    stopped talking and quickly changed the subject, "Aren''t you going to meet up with your friends yet?"


    "Yeah, I decided to meet a friend. I came early to sit by the beach." I didn''t tell her theplete truth


    because I didn''t want them to worry about me.


    "Have you decided when you''ll be here?" My mom was most interested in this, so she always asked


    about it during our phone calls.


    "On a whim," I said straightforwardly, "It''s just up to Monique now. Probert''s final exams are over. But I


    have a few things to handle first, then I''ll head over."


    "That''s fine. We''ll be waiting for you. Think about what you want to eat, and I''ll prepare it in advance.


    You can tell me anytime."


    "Alright!" I smiled. She was already preparing, even though I didn''t know when I''d be setting out, I didn''t


    want to dampen her enthusiasm.


    After chatting for a while, it was about time to hang up. I told my mom, "I have to go now, bye!"


    After hanging up the phone, I gazed into the distance and stretched. Not far ahead, I saw a man


    standing on a rock, his back facing towards me, his figure tall and sturdy.


    Suddenly, my heart skipped a beat as I got nervous. Why did he look so familiar?


    I stared at him, hoping to see his face. But the man was engrossed in the horizon, showing no signs of


    turning around.


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    Feeling upset, I checked the time and reluctantly got up. I silently mocked myself for not being able to


    forget him after all these years, even remembering his silhouette, and being attracted by it. But how


    could he possibly be in Goldenvale Town?


    I got up and started walking back. I didn''t want to bete for my first meeting with my business partner.


    As I turned into the private path, I couldn''t resist ncing at the man onest time. He had already


    stepped down from the rock, and I could only see his side profile. I was unfamiliar with him.


    I felt a pang of disappointment and quickly turned away, walking briskly.


    Once I reached the agreed meeting room, only Logan was there. I looked at him with confusion,


    asking, "Hasn''t he arrived yet?"


    Logan lounged on the couch and pointed to his watch, "It''s not time yet. Don''t worry, and he won''t be


    I nced at the phone in my hand to check the time. There were still ten minutes left. I was early.


    I put down my bag and sat on the couch opposite Logan, feeling increasingly nervous.

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    Chapter 145


    Five minutes before the appointed time, the door of the room was opened.


    With my back to the door, I heard the swoosh of its opening. I saw Logan, who was sitting across from


    me, look up and smile brightly, then look at me.


    I turned to see what had captured his attention only to be left dumbstruck.


    Striding into the room came the man I had spotted earlier on the rocky shore. He smiled and looked at


    me, his eyes reminding me of an old friend.


    I stood up slowly, keeping my eyes on his face. This man was aplete stranger to me but


    inexplicably had an unspeakable attraction. It seemed like I had seen him somewhere before, but


    definitely not the glimpse I had just had on the rocky shore.


    Only when he approached us did Logan rise from the couch, ¡°You are exactly on time, but you''re a bit


    eager because we still had five minutes.¡± His tone was unmistakably teasing.


    The man chuckled, ¡°My apologies for keeping you waiting.¡±


    I froze when I heard his voice. This was unmistakably Ronan''s voice, but the face...


    ¡°Aaliyah, this is the business partner you''ve been eager to meet, and he is my cousin.¡± Logan''s voice


    was a mixture of mischief and satisfaction as he said, "I guess you two have already met."


    ¡°Your cousin?¡± I tore my gaze away from the man''s face, looking incredulously at Logan. ¡°How many


    cousins do you have?¡±


    Logan shrugged, raising a finger, ¡°Just the one. Guaranteed genuine.¡±


    I was struggling to make sense of reality. It felt as if everything that had happened these past few days


    was just part of a dream.


    Could it be possible that I had, like those characters in the novels, crossed into another world? I didn''t


    even know where I was now, or who was standing before me.


    Ronan? How could this man possibly be Ronan? And if he was, who was I, and why was he so


    different from the Ronan I knew?


    This was utterly baffling.


    The man extended his hand towards me, ¡°Aaliyah, long time no see.¡±


    I remained rooted to the spot, confusion clear in my eyes. I continued to search his face, hoping to find


    a trace of Ronan.


    The Ronan I remembered had delicate features and a handsome air of nobility about him that was


    impossible to extinguish. However, the man''s features were also great, and he had a rugged


    appearance. His mature, subdued demeanor was not the dashing image I remembered but was


    indisputably captivating.


    I instinctively shook my head, unwilling to believe the truth unfolding before me. He kept his hand


    outstretched.


    My eyes drifted from his face to his outstretched hand, noticing the numerous scars. The next moment,


    I was taken aback, my gaze glued onto the wrist of his outstretched hand. He was wearing an old,


    brown leather bracelet, with a shiny metal te in the middle. The bracelet looked like it had been


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    repaired, and was no longer its original self, just like Ronan.


    I remembered the bracelet clearly despite its cheap price. I bought it for Ronan because the metal te


    bore two letters "R" and "A".


    I didn''t know what the original designer intended, but the two letters were the initials of Ronan and


    Aaliyah''s names. So I decided to buy it, slipping it onto Ronan¡¯s wrist, insisting he never remove it.


    I recalled the scene vividly. Addrion, who was standing nearby, howled with jealousy, ¡°Why don''t I get


    one? I want one too.¡±


    I nced at Ronan who was smirking and told Addrion, ¡°If you can find a bracelet with the letters of ¡°A¡±


    and ¡°A¡±. I''ll buy you one too.¡±


    Memories flooded back, yet the man before me seemed like a different person altogether.


    I looked up into his eyes again. Our eyes met, my lips quivering as I stammered, ¡°You are you Ronan?¡±


    He was a little surprised as he nodded, ¡°Yes, Aaliyah. It''s me.¡±


    ¡°Why do you look like this now?¡± I could barely control the trembling in my voice.

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    Chapter 146


    Before I could extract an answer from Ronan, Logan, with a look of irritation, grabbed my hand and


    ced it into Ronan''s. "Well, this counts as an introduction. You can chat, and I have other fish to fry.


    You guys can figure out the partnership," he announced.


    After a few steps, he whirled around and shot me a teasing look, "Aaliyah, I forgot to mention, it''s not


    me who wants to help you, and it''s him. If you have any questions, ask him." With that, he dashed off.


    I turned my attention to the man before me named Ronan. He smiled, his eyes showed a familiar mix of


    gentleness and mischief that reminded me of the Ronan I once knew.


    Hisrge hand enveloped mine, a squeeze of reassurance as he said, "Let''s sit down. We''ve got a long


    road ahead of us."


    His hand, rough but warm, continued to hold mine.


    "Getting to you wasn''t easy, so I had to find Catherine," he said, looking at me, "Turns out I was


    heading in the right direction."


    I cleared my throat, gainedposure, and quickly withdrew my hand, sinking into the couch, and I


    asked, "How do you know my situation? Did Catherine tell you?"


    "That''s not important," he replied, sitting opposite me in his usual fashion, "What''s important is that I''m


    here to help you get everything."


    "I still want to know why are you like this now. What happened? Why did you suddenly leave school


    and disappear?" I bombarded him with questions that had been eating at me.


    He simply smiled and looked at me with emotions concealed in his eyes.


    Ronan used to be like this when we were alone. But now, his face, so alien to me, felt like a st from


    another lifetime.


    I never thought I''d see Ronan again, let alone under these circumstances, as my business partner,


    wearing a face I barely recognized.


    Irony of fate.


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    If I had a choice, I would rather not meet Ronan, especially when I was at rock bottom.


    Ronan broke his gaze, got a cup of coffee, and slid it across the table towards me.


    "I know what you''ve been through, and honestly, it might be worse than you think. You should prepare


    for that," he said with a grave tone, "You can share your thoughts with me. The more detailed, the


    better."


    I suddenly felt nervous, and perhaps a little embarrassed.


    I took a deep breath, evading his question, and asked, "Are you sure you want to be my partner?"


    "Do you have a better choice?" Ronan asked, looking at me.


    I was speechless. I didn''t have a better choice, let alone a solid n.


    "We''re not talking about a small amount of money here. The stock market is risky, and given my current


    situation, I don''t have a certainty," I said,ying my cards on the table.


    Truth be told, I was scared that he was the financier. I had already dragged Addrion into this mess. I


    couldn''t do the same to Ronan.


    "Ronan," I looked at him, and said, "This is my battle. You don''t have to get involved. I don''t know that


    you are my business partner. I..."


    "If you trust me, let me handle this. Don''t worry too much," he said, looking at me. I thought I saw a hint


    of tenderness in his eyes.


    I felt a flutter of panic and quickly averted my gaze.


    Seeing my hesitation, Ronan continued, "I know it''s a tough situation. I can have Elbert draw up a


    contract. As a third party, I can buy the shares from you, Jan, and other shareholders. Once things


    settle down on your end, I can sell them back to you at the same price."


    "The same price?" I was surprised. "I thought we agreed to be partners?"


    With a smirk, Ronan replied, "Of course we''re partners. But I have my ns which I can''t reveal just


    yet."

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    Chapter 147


    I couldn''t help but furrow my brows, wondering if the man standing before me was indeed the Ronan I


    knew so many years ago. Everything about him was a mystery to me since our encounter.


    It was only then I realized that Logan''s attitude towards me, his subtle hints, and his tireless efforts


    were from the consideration of Ronan.


    Ronan knew about my situation long ago.


    No wonder he and Catherine were always strange, always avoiding the main point, always wanting to


    say something but not quite.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    I was baffled. How did Ronan find out about my situation? Why did he go to such lengths to help me?


    He promised cooperation yet didn''t take a dime, allowing me to buy back at the original price. What


    was his hidden agenda?


    I realized that the person I wanted to see the most now was Catherine.


    Seeing my silence, Ronan chuckled and asked me, "Haven''t figured it out yet?"


    I rxed my brows and met his gaze. At the moment, I couldn''t find a second person who could


    provide such substantial funds to help me.


    Without substantial funds, all my ns were just castles in the air. Revenge? Toppling the Dawson


    family? All nonsense.


    How could I exin to those who suffered because of me if I couldn''t retrieve Medsafe Liyah Inc.,


    especially Addrion who, despite his crippled body, insisted on helping me? How could I let him down?


    Moreover, Ronan was indeed someone I could trust. I really needed his help.


    I cleared my throat and said, "Let Mr. Elbert draft the agreement. But it is a cooperation. You don''t have


    to sell back at the original price; consider increasing it. Taking back Medsafe Liyah Inc. is not just for


    me but for everyone. I can''t let the Dawson family do as they please." I was very firm.


    "Thank you for your trust." Ronan was happy when he heard my words. "You did the right thing. You''ve


    always been clear-headed."


    I chuckled sarcastically. Did I have another choice?


    Indeed, reaching this agreement was a significant disy of trust for both Ronan and me.


    "I know Medsafe Liyah Inc. is your life''s work. I''m just safeguarding it temporarily until it''s truly safe.


    Then it will be returned to you," Ronan assured me softly.


    I stared at Ronan for a long time. His eyes were filled with honesty, sincerity, and a hint of eagerness.


    I said, "Thank you."


    He wasn''t used to hearing me talk like that, but he immediately showed a wide smile.


    "There''s one more thing I need to remind you." Ronan leaned closer and looked at me seriously.


    "What?"


    "You need to go to Silverdale City as soon as possible. I found the nanny Jan arranged for your


    parents is Marissa''s aunt."


    "What?" I was so shocked and almost stood up.


    Ronan nodded seriously, "Last time Catherine went back to Silverdale City, she called me to check on


    this nanny. That''s when we found out she was rted to Marissa. Regardless of their intentions, you


    should go to Silverdale City. Always be cautious, and the safety of your parents is paramount."


    I looked at Ronan with confusion, "When did you find out about me? Did Catherine tell you?"


    Ronan pondered for a moment and said gently, "A long time ago."


    "When?" I pressed, "How long ago?"


    I immediately regretted my question. It seemed a bit too focused on him.


    Sure enough, his smile deepened.


    "Since I knew Jerome was Jan''s brother." Ronan''s words stunned me.


    "Jerome?" I repeated, seeming to realize something, I asked, "Are you a government agent?"


    He only smiled and didn''t answer, confirming my guess.

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    Chapter 148


    "Why do you have that much capital?" This was a question that was gnawing at me. It was not usual for


    a government agent to be rolling in dough.


    "I have my ways, but rest assured, it''s all above board." He dered with such conviction that left no


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    room for doubt. "Don''t worry, and it''s just to see ''Medsafe Liyah Inc.'' through a transitional phase,


    nothing illegal."


    His answer suddenly made everything clear to me. Surely! It was just to help ''Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    through a tough spot. If he were to increase the price, then that would be illegal. I muttered under my


    breath, "Why in the world raise the price then?"


    The atmosphere suddenly became awkward, and I nervously twiddled my fingers.


    I wanted to ask him a lot more, but just then his phone rang. He pulled it out, nced at it, and nodded


    at me, "Excuse me, I need to take this."


    Then right in front of me, he picked up the call. He just listened to the other person and replied, "Got it."


    After hanging up, he turned to me with an apologetic smile, "Aaliyah, I''ll have to catch you some other


    time. I''ve got some business to take care of."


    I quickly nodded, "Sure!"


    Without hesitation, he got up, apologized once more, and left.


    I had no recollection of how I left the club or how I got into my car. I was in a daze, too many questions


    buzzing in my head.


    I sat in the car for a while before I remembered Catherine. I immediately dialed her number.


    The first thing Catherine asked when she picked up with a yful tone was "Did you meet him?


    Surprised? Shocked?"


    Her question ticked me off. I barked at her, "Catherine, what the hell are you guys ying at? Is this


    some kind of joke to you?"


    Catherine was taken aback, probably not expecting me to lose my temper. We fell into an awkward


    silence. I collected myself and demanded, "Where are you? I''ming over."


    Catherine quickly sent me her location. Without another word, I hung up, started the car, and headed


    straight to her. I was thinking of the stuff and I needed to clear the air with Catherine.


    When I saw Catherine, she was looking at me cautiously. The more I thought about it, the angrier I


    became. I plopped my purse on the coffee table, sank onto the couch, and red at her.


    She covered her face and said, "Why are you so worked up? Is it really necessary?"


    "When did you get involved with Ronan? " I cut straight to the chase. "Don''t beat around the bush. Just


    spill it, or we''re done being friends." Iid down thew, then grumbled, "You guys have been toying


    with me like I''m some kind of fool. Is this fun to you?"


    "Calm down, Aaliyah. I''ll tell you," Catherine conceded, trying to lighten the mood, "We''re not gonna


    stop being friends, are you serious?"


    "Say it." I maintained my frosty demeanor, "Who does that to their best friend? Mess with me?"


    "Technically, he contacted me first," Catherine said, looking at me, "And it was a year ago. I got a call


    from Ronan out of the blue. He was trying to gather information on you and seemed quite anxious at


    the time."


    "A year ago?" I was slightly puzzled.


    "Yes, around the time when I came to visit you but was turned away by your housekeeper, who


    informed me that you were abroad," Catherine exined earnestly as if she feared I wouldn''t believe


    her,


    "I couldn''t reach you on the phone, and after trying everything else to get in touch with you, I was at my


    wits'' end. So I ryed the information to him. He made it clear that as soon as I heard from you, I was


    to inform him immediately."


    I let out a sigh of frustration.


    "He had your departure records checked then and found your details, but there was no trace of you


    abroad. He suspected something was amiss that maybe you never left the country and were still in


    Goldenvale Town. He called again, repeatedly emphasizing that I inform him the minute I hear anything


    about you."


    Catherine''s revtion left me dumbfounded. I had no idea this had happened.


    "And then?" I pressed.

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    Chapter 149


    "Out of the blue, you reached out to me and I had to honor my promise, so I immediately told him about


    that." she started to joke again, "You can''t me me for this. If I can''t get support from him, I won''t be


    able to help you. And you have no idea, that maid of yours is stubborn."


    "And then he sent Logan." I inquired.


    Catherine immediately gave me a thumbs up, "Smart! How else would I know Logan?"


    "You said Logan was a top-notch private investigator, DragonLord, so, you''ve been lying to me all the


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    time?" I red at Catherine, fuming, "Catherine, how many truths have you told me?"


    "All of it''s true." Catherine raised her hand as if to swear an oath, "But I only knew the top dog in this


    industry was nicknamed DragonLord. He was rumored to be something extraordinary, but how would I


    know Logan was DragonLord? I was desperate to see you, fearing you were in danger, so I called


    Ronan in a panic, and he sent Logan. I didn''t trust him, but he assured me, saying Logan was his


    cousin."


    Catherine spoke with such enthusiasm, her expressions were incredibly animated.


    "I didn''t expect my boss to know Logan. The first time he came to visit me, my boss saw him, andter


    asked me how I could know DragonLord. That''s when I found out Logan is DragonLord, and he''s even


    Ronan''s cousin." Catherine spoke as if she was saying a tongue twister.


    "You guys act so familiar like you''ve known each other for ages." Imented sarcastically, copying


    Logan''s tone, "Not even trying hard, Catherine here is going to get him killed. Ridiculous!"


    Seeing me speak like this, Catherine immediately brightened up, "You''ve seen it. Logan is such a


    chatterbox. He can get acquainted with strangers very quickly. Besides, Ronan cares so much about


    your safety, and he repeatedly reminds us not to put you in too much danger. Treating you as if you


    were some precious gem."


    "Cut the crap, and don''t change the subject. Do you know he works for the government?"


    "I know." Catherine answered so quickly that it made me extremely angry. It seems I was the only one


    who didn''t know anything.


    "What does he do exactly?" I immediately followed up, and my eyes locked on Catherine.


    Catherine knew she shouldn''t say that, and she looked at me, clearly thinking about how to answer.


    I pped the armrest of the sofa, "Enough with the mind games. Tell the truth. Do you need to think


    about this?"


    Catherine jolted, blurting out, "He is a national security officer, I guess."


    My brain buzzed. No wonder he could find Jerome. No wonder Logan said the top security department


    had noticed Jerome. No wonder they could find anyone they wanted in no time. No wonder they had


    such elite personnel. No wonder they could find Addrion and rescue him.


    I didn''t want to think anymore because it was all clear now. I sank deep into the sofa, speechless. My


    feelings wereplicated, and I didn''t know whether to be happy or worried.


    No wonder Catherine and Logan avoided talking about it before, acting mysteriously. It all made sense


    now.


    "Is Elbert one of them too?" I suddenly thought of Elbert and asked.


    "At least, Elbert is truly the famous Iawyer of Goldenvale Town, I guess." Catherine shrugged and


    nced at me, then continued, "It''s not bad, right? Otherwise, it wouldn''t be easy to hire Elbert."


    I propped my head up weakly, sighing, "Why do I feel like I''ve jumped out of the frying pan and into the


    fire?"


    "Give it a rest. Who else but you could have such an oddball of a husband, and it''s like winning the


    lottery."


    "Are youplimenting me?" I asked as I looked at her.


    Catherine burst intoughter,pletely carefree, "I''m just saying, you''re lucky to have Ronan looking


    out for you. With your situation, without Ronan, Allie, it''d be difficult for you to turn things around."


    Catherine spoke the truth, "So, could you stop thinking too much? Focus on the present. First, resolve


    your current crisis, then think about the next step."


    "What next step?" I looked at Catherine, "By the way, you said he works for the government, and how


    does he have so much money?"


    This was what worried me the most.

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    Upon hearing my query, Catherine immediately straightened up, a serious look in her eyes, and


    whispered, "I have to tell you, that his true identity is really secretive. You can never, ever, disclose it to


    anyone. Even I only know it by chance, and if you hadn''t asked me in your frustration today, I wouldn''t


    have told you! It could jeopardize his safety."


    I nodded solemnly, "I understand. I won''t say a word."


    "His public persona is a powerful tycoon." Catherine''s words instantly cleared my doubts.


    I stared nkly, my mind racing, trying to figure out what had happened to Ronan after he suddenly left


    school. Could it be rted to his upation? But back then, he was just a senior student from my


    school, and how could he be involved with national security?


    I shook my head, letting out a sigh.


    Had it not been for his sudden disappearance, I wouldn''t be in the situation I''m in now, and wouldn''t


    know Jan.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Life sure loved to y tricks on people.


    The more I thought about these issues, the more agitated I became. Ronan had too many secrets.


    "Do you know why he has changed into what he is now?" I asked Catherine, desperate to know the


    reason.


    "Don''t get me started!" Catherine slumped back onto the couch, "When he appeared in front of me, I


    was shocked, and I thought he was an imposter. I asked him, but he didn''t say a word. Later, I tried to


    get it from Logan, but he only said that he was injured during a mission, and refused to say more. He


    warned me not to ask again."


    Catherine''s words made me think of his scarred hand.


    Both of us fell silent. That day, I felt like I had stepped into another unknown world, everything felt


    wrong, and it was simply unbelievable.


    After a while, Catherine suddenly said, "By the way, Marissa has already made contact with Neal.


    They''ve had dinner together twice in the past two days."


    I turned to look at Catherine, disbelieving, "She''s only been back for two days."


    "Is there a problem? A bitch will always act like a bitch, and nothing can stop her being a bitch. They


    got intimate very quickly." Catherine said disdainfully, "Neal''s generous with women, so he''s got no


    problem conquering them. But once those women trust him, there will be..."


    "Don''t worry, and I''m waiting for the right opportunity. As soon as Marissa cheated on Jan, we''ll


    make our move." I said coldly.


    Catherine immediately turned to me, eager to know more, "So, you''ve already set a trap for Marissa?"


    Before I could answer Catherine, my phone started to ring. I nced at it, and it was Jessica.


    I was a bit puzzled because Jessica never called me first, so what was going on today?


    Catherine also saw the name, urging me, "Answer it."


    Answering the call, I heard Jessica''s anxious voice on the other end, "Aaliyah, you need to get to the


    hospital right now. Jan suddenly fainted and was sent to the hospital."


    "Which hospital?" My voice was full of anxiety, but I stayed calm and seated, "How did he faint? What


    happened? How is he now?"


    I asked three questions in a row with a poker face.


    "Just hurry up. Stop asking." Jessica was clearly annoyed, "Just get here. It''s Wellbeing General


    Hospital." She hung up as soon as she finished speaking.


    I turned to Catherine with a smirk on my face, and said leisurely, "Our opportunity has arrived."

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    Chapter 151


    Catherine seemed to have figured out the situation, a wicked grin spreading across her face. "So, did


    he fall sick?"


    I rose to my feet, slung my purse over my shoulder, and arched an eyebrow. "He¡¯s been sick for a


    while. Time to head to the hospital!"


    Without another word, I headed towards the door, with Catherine trailing behind and reminding me,


    "Don''t forget to keep me posted. I''d love to share in the schadenfreude. I''m dying to see Dawson get


    hiseuppance."


    "Easy there. The show has just begun!" I cast her a scornful nce. "You''ll get your fill."


    With that, I hopped into my car and leisurely drove towards Wellbeing General Hospital. By the time I


    got there, all the Dawsons, except for Jerome, were present. And it seemed they all looked terrible on


    their faces.


    I made a beeline for the hospital bed, where I found Jan''s face as pale as a ghost. He looked utterly


    defeated.


    "What happened, darling? How did you end up in this state?" I asked, my face a mask of concern and


    anxiety.


    Jan didn''t respond. I grabbed his hand, stroked his forehead, and checked his face. "Fever again?


    I¡¯ve told you that you couldn¡¯t ignore it when you were unwell, especially when you had the frequent


    fevertely. What did the doctor say?"


    Before Jan could answer, Hazel, unable to contain herself any longer,shed out at me, "You are


    one to talk! How dare you! He¡¯s your husband. How could you have neglected him like this? He''s been


    sick, and you just left him to fend for himself?"


    "I''ve tried to get him to the hospital every time, but he always refused to go! Why are you so upset,


    Hazel? What''s really going on?" I looked at Hazel, demanding answers.


    Behind her, my father-inw Farley stood, pulling a long face.


    "I''m going to ask the doctor!" I dered, rising to my feet. But Jan grabbed my hand. "It''s okay. The


    doctor just left. I''m just a bit over fatigued. A good night''s sleep will do me good."


    "But how can overfatigue cause recurring fevers?" I persisted, determined to get to the bottom of this.


    I was sure the Dawson family knew something they weren''t telling me. Otherwise, they wouldn''t all look


    so gloomy. I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of satisfaction and sneered inside. ¡°They finally had it


    Jesper stepped forward. "Don''t worry, Aaliyah. Jan has a mild case of pneumonia. He''s been


    overworking himself and neglected it a bit, causing some mild pulmonary fibrosis. It''s no big deal, and a


    few days in the hospital will help him recover. Don''t fret."


    "What? Pneumonia? Pulmonary fibrosis? Is there something to do with the pandemic recently? How


    long will he have to stay here?" I asked, incredulous.


    "He''ll be discharged once the inmmation subsides. It takes time to heal," Jesper exined, his eyes


    hidden behind his sses, scanning Jan as he spoke.


    Jan squeezed my hand, weakly telling me, "You should go home, darling. You need to take care of


    the kids. Spending too much time in the hospital isn''t good for you. It''s crowded in here and risky."


    "I should stay. You all can go back, I..."


    "Go home now. The kids are important. I¡¯ll go home soon after I''ve had my antibiotics!" Jan


    interrupted me impatiently before I could finish my words.C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    It all clicked. They all knew the prognosis before I arrived. Jan tried hard to shield me from the news


    and wanted me to leave soon.


    Just then, the doctor walked in with a couple of assistants. As he was about to speak, Jesper rushed


    over. "Doctor, I need to speak with you. I have a few more questions. Pleasee with me." With that,


    he steered the doctor out of the room, as if fearing the doctor would disclose something.


    None of this escaped my notice.


    At that moment, Jerome strode in. His eyesnded on me standing by Jan''s bed. He quickly


    swallowed whatever he was about to say. His hawk-like eyes bore into me, a cryptic smile ying on


    his lips. "Aaliyah, you''re here too."

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    Chapter 152


    I gave a slight nod as a form of greeting.


    Jan addressed me again, "Allie, you should head back."


    It was clear they had something to discuss among themselves.


    "How can I leave when I don''t even know what''s going on?" I stubbornly insisted.


    Jerome, with a light chuckle, chimed in, "Aaliyah, the whole family is here. You should go pick up the


    kids. You can trust us to take care of everything here. This is a hospital, and in times of pandemic, it¡¯s


    not good for you to stay here for long. Taking care of the kids is the top priority."


    I nced around the Dawsons, not a soul missing. "Seems like I am the only outsider here."


    Without further ado, I grabbed my bag and made my way to the exit.


    Jessica, with a hint of insincerity, walked me to the door. "Take care, Allie. I''ll be here tomorrow, so you


    won''t have toe. You need to rest."


    "Thank you, then," I replied without turning my head, and left the hospital.


    Once I was in my car, I tried to piece things together, then dialed ra. She answered instantly. "Did


    Zora send that video?" I asked.


    "I don''t think so. Jan hasn''t been to our ce these past few days," ra assured me, "But Zora has


    the video now. As far as I know her, she wouldn''t hesitate to use it."


    "Try to convince Zora to find a chance to show it to Jan. Make sure Zora will have what she wanted


    this time," I advised, "And prepare yourself. Jan will want to know where the video came from once


    something happens."


    "Don''t worry, Allie! I''ve got a story ready. The timing is just right," ra confidently replied.


    After a few more words, I hung up and drove away from the hospital. I called Logan to update him on


    Jan''s situation. To my surprise, he already knew.


    "You already knew it?" I asked.


    Instead of answering, he hung up and sent me a link.


    I quickly parked the car in a safe spot and clicked on the link. It was an audio recording filled with


    Hazel''s cries and curses, Farley''s low grumbling, and Jan''s furious shout, "Enough! Shut the hell up!


    It can''t be happening! It just can''t!"


    "Call Jerome, Jessica. Call him now," Hazel''s voice echoed.


    The recording continued, capturing Jessica''s call to Jerome and her confession. "I messed up. I called


    Aaliyah!"


    "Why would you call her?" Hazel yelled.


    The recording yed on, all the way until Jerome arrived and I was escorted out.


    I immediately realized that this recording was the result of Logan nting something in Jan''s bag


    that night.


    Jerome''s harsh voice came through, "Everybody calm down. Keep this under wraps, especially from


    Aaliyah. Jan, think about it, where could you have possibly caught this venereal disease? I''ve


    always warned you to be careful."


    "I haven''t been messing aroundtely," Jan retorted.


    "You?... Hmph," Jerome sneered, "Think hard. Find the source of this problem and see if there''s more


    to it. Figure out if someone who¡¯s behind her."


    Hearing it, I got nervous. Jerome never let his guard down. I quickly ended the recording and dialed


    Catherine. She took a while to answer the phone, and I asked anxiously, "Catherine, has the woman


    you arranged for Jan left?"


    "You mean the one with venereal disease?" she asked, "Don''t worry. She left Goldenvale Town a long


    time ago. Why did you ask about that?"


    "Jan tested positive. The Dawson family is now in a frenzy at the hospital. Jerome is likely to cause


    trouble."


    After briefing Catherine, I called Logan back to discuss my n, focusing on the footage of Marissa


    with that toy boy from the mall. Logan pondered for a moment then said, "I''ll handle it."


    With his assurance, I felt a lot better.


    When I got home, Logan provided me with a perfect excuse, which I promptly shared with ra.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Later that night, ra called me secretly, saying that Jan had been to their ce and had taken


    blood samples from both of them for no reason.


    Of course, I knew why. It seemed the Dawson family had started their investigation.

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153


    She told me that Zora had been super resistant at first, questioning Jan why. But Jan gave her a


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    good beating. He seemed pretty heated!


    ra confidently said that a video of the incident must exist somewhere. I urged her to stay calm. In


    fact, I wanted to tell her to stay as far away from Jan as possible. But if I did, it could set off a chain


    of reactions too big for me to handle. So, I dropped the idea and kept my mouth shut.


    At the end of the day, she made it all happen. After all, she threw herself at him from the get-go. That


    was not something I could have stopped.


    I decided to take a backseat and watch the drama unfold. What surprised me was how quickly Marissa


    dug her own grave, which was way faster than I''d anticipated.


    On Friday, my friends and I had just finished at the sauna, nning to grab dinner at a local diner. But


    just as we stepped out, we happened to watch a spectacle right on the street.


    A group of feisty women surrounded a luxury car, dragging out a woman from it.


    The woman seemed to have just stepped out of the car when those women caught her. She tried to


    scramble back into the vehicle, but they wouldn''t let her.


    Holy shit! We took a closer look and recognized the woman under attacked was Marissa.


    At that time, she was hopelessly outnumbered and pulled to the ground. A woman asrge as a grizzly


    bear sat on her, swinging her fists left and right.


    Janice pointed to the woman with the fists of fury and said, "Aaliyah, look! That''s Hertha."


    Hearing that, I focused on Hertha, who was surprisingly strong for her size. Her blows were fast and


    urate. The thud of her fists on flesh was enough to make anyone wince.


    The luxury car, however, had long since sped off amidst the chaos while Hertha was hitting her like


    crazy.


    Marissa was screaming desperately and thrashing about. Initially, she kept reaching out to scratch


    Hertha on her, trying to fight back, but eventually, she lost the strength to resist and was left at Hertha''s


    mercy.


    Hertha having brought a group with her, but none of them could get a chance to hit. But they were busy


    capturing the brawl on their phones.


    After a flurry of hits, the fight was over. Marissa was left whimpering on the ground as Hertha stood


    triumphantly over her.


    Hertha wasn¡¯t done, though. Shemanded her followers, "Come on,dies, isn''t she a whore? Strip


    her! Let everyone have a good look at her sluttish body!"


    Her followers jumped into action. Some of them pressed Marissa and some tearing her clothes off quite


    skillfully. Without a sweat, they¡¯ve stripped Marissa bare. She was smart enough to keep her face


    covered.


    Standing with her hands on her hips, Hertha pointed at Marissa and yelled, "Come have a look,


    everybody. This slut lures men away from their wives, offering herself up after just a couple of drinks.


    She''s an old hand in seducing men. She seduced one married man, had an illegitimate child with him,


    and ripped that man off. She then hooked up with other men. Let''s see her face, too, so you can all


    avoid her in case she tries to steal your men!¡±


    The women in the crowd got angry and nodded in agreement, "She''s shameless! She deserves a good


    beating! She had iting, a slut!"


    Upon Hertha''smand, one of them kicked Marissa''s arms away, revealing her tear-streaked and


    twisted face. Marissa twisted and turned, shouting, "Let go of me. You''ll pay for this!"


    Hertha, like a predator,nded a powerful p across Marissa''s face. I instinctively flinched.


    "Pay for this, huh? You taste what it feels like first, you goddamned whore! You thought I was like the


    wives of the men you¡¯ve seduced before, all bark and no bite? Today, I''ll teach you a fucking lesson


    today. Let''s see if you dare mess with other women''s husbands again."


    Janice nudged me, suppressing herughter.


    I looked at Janice, confused, and asked, "Is she throwing shade at me for being all bark and no bite?"


    Geneva and Catherine, standing next to us, burst intoughter at this.

 Chapter 154

    Chapter 154


    Hertha''s fighting spirit was on fire. She was still cursing up a storm, using Marissa of every sin


    under the sun. She even went as far as to expose Marissa''s kept man, with precise and convincing


    evidence.


    I was impressed deep down. This Hertha was not an average brawler. She had her wits about her, able


    to dig up so much dirt on Marissa. She was well prepared and not some foolish woman going around


    picking fights. No wonder her hits were so urate.


    Gevena tugged my arm, tilting her head. "Let''s go!" I took a few more nces, soaking in the drama


    before we left.


    At dinner, Catherine showed me a push notification on her phone. The scene we just left was already


    making rounds on the inte.We chatted animatedly over dinner about the juicy details of Hertha and


    Marissa''s feud. However, in my mind, I was already calcting how to leverage this incident.


    When I got home, I found Jan, who hadn''t been home for days, had returned.


    I wished he would be gone forever. But now, his return was a blessing in disguise!


    Jan, trying to act casual, attempted to strike a conversation. "Honey, Monique ising home


    tomorrow! You must be thrilled!"


    I sat on the sofa, engrossed in my phone, scrolling through TikTok videos, not giving him the


    satisfaction of a response. Just as I came across the video of Marissa getting beaten up, I gasped. "Oh


    my God, isn''t that Marissa?"


    I quickly turned up the volume, staring wide-eyed at the screen, reying the video over and over


    again. There was no way Jan could miss Hertha''s harsh words.


    Jan kept his cool, sipping his water, but his face visibly darkened.


    I opened my mouth and said, "No wonder Marissa has never told me directly who her husband is and


    what he does! Turns out she''s a mistress! Jeez, she has even said ''my husband¡¯ shamelessly to my


    face. For Heaven¡¯s sake, I wonder whose husband he is! She''s so reckless. How could she do such a


    thing? She even has a child. What will the child do in the future as a bastard son? Tsk tsk! Men are so


    unreliable. Aren¡¯t they afraid of catching AIDS!" I was clearly hinting at something.


    Jan remained silent, his face darkening.


    I sighed. "Darling, you were right. Marissa is no saint. Just listen to this mess! What was it all about?


    Not only is she a mistress, but she''s also keeping a toy boy? What is she thinking? When did she fall


    so low?"


    Probert came over and asked, "Mommy, what kind of toy boy is she keeping? Is the toy funny? Can we


    keep one, too?"


    I was stunned, ncing at Probert''s innocent face. It took me a while to process his question.


    Jan snapped at me, "Can''t you watch your words? Don''t you see the kid is here?"


    Iughed and immediately hugged Probert, exining seriously, "Son, it takes a big house and much


    money to keep a toy boy! We can''t keep one now."


    After saying those words, Jan''s face darkened even more.


    I picked up Carl and called for Probert, "Come on, boys. Let''s go upstairs!"


    Helga rushed out of the kitchen at my call, taking Carl from me. Carl was still looking for Zora these


    days but not so eagerly as before.


    Just as we got upstairs, we heard a car driving away. I quickly ran to the window and saw Jan''s car


    speeding away, disappearing from my sight. I looked in the direction he had left, raising my eyebrows


    and putting on a smirk on my face. Then I turned back and instructed Helga, "Helga, sterilize his dishes


    wellter and set them aside."


    Helga nodded hastily. "Okay. I''ll do it right away!"


    That night Jan didn''t return.


    In the morning, he called to say he had to deal with some urgent matters at thepany the night


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    before and was feeling unwell, so he had gone to the hospital for IV therapy.


    I yed along with him, expressing my concerns and gave him several instructions casually.


    After hanging up the phone, I sat in a daze, wondering since when my life had turned into this. It was


    tiring to y mind games each day.


    I was sure Marissa had a lively night. This incident was different. Jan wouldn''t let Marissa off easily,


    especially when a toy boy was involved!


    I was secretly thrilled that I had sessfully diverted the trouble onto Marissa. However, I regretted not


    knowing how far they had gone.


    Initially, I thought everyone would just enjoy the show and then move on. But to my surprise, the


    incident''s heat on the inte didn''t cool down, instead, it soared even higher.

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    Chapter 155


    At this point, the inte was abuzz with a doxing for Marissa.


    I could not help but marvel at the power of the inte. In just one night, it was like a tsunami,


    sweeping up every curious soul.


    Soon enough, every detail about Marissa, from her birthce, to her schools, her college boyfriends


    and her time at Medsafe Liyah Inc., was dug up andid bare for everyone to see.


    That was when I realized something was off. The whole situation was focusing on Marissa, and not


    Hertha. It was a strange turn of events.


    There was only one possibility. Someone was stirring the pot!


    I immediately called Logan, who answered right away, his voice filled with mischief. "Hey Aaliyah,


    how''s it going?"


    "Is this really your doing?" I asked.


    "I knew you''d catch on!" Logan chuckled mischievously. "This is a golden opportunity. We have to take


    advantage of it. Don''t you think Hertha is quite the godsend?"


    "Let''s turn up the heat, and watch Medsafe Liyah Inc. burn, leaving Jan with nowhere to run." I said,


    my voice filled with resolve.


    "Aaliyah, are you sure?" Logan became excited. "If we do this, there''s no turning back for you!"


    "I''m sure! I haven''t looked back since the day I woke up. Why would I need a safety?" I said


    determinedly. "Haven¡¯t you got anything about Jerome yet?"


    "You mean him and the child?" Logan asked.


    "Exactly! Even if we''re not certain about it, we should use this situation to put the heat on them. We can


    use this opportunity to turn Jan against Jerome first. We¡¯ll see to itter. You¡¯re right. It¡¯s a golden


    opportunity, and we can¡¯t let it slip.¡± I voiced my thought, ¡°I gave you the picture, right? Just put it out


    there. The picture is the truth. He can¡¯t deny it, no matter how cunning he is. Let Jan face the reality.


    He won''t spill until he feels the pain!"


    "Savage!" Logan praised, "Alright, Aaliyah. I''m on it. Are you ready?"


    "Yeah. Do it!¡± Imanded firmly. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back. I don¡¯t want to see his face again."


    "Okay!"


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    After hanging up on Logan, my palm was sweaty from gripping my phone. I paced the room, my heart


    pounding in my chest. My ten-year marriage was about to be shattered beyond repair. I would fall out


    with him since this day on.


    Everything happened faster than I had expected. In no time, the Marissa scandal was trending, with


    countless views and shares.


    The topic of a mistress was already a public outrage, and people had a nature for gossip. So, the


    scandal only grew hotter and had the potential to start a wildfire.


    The man behind Marissa became a mystery everyone wanted to find out. Then, someone updated a


    post, iming that Marissa''s child belonged to the Dawson family.


    This announcement stirred the pot even more. Soon, people started specting who the father could


    be. Some hinted it could be someone from the Dawson family at Medsafe Liyah Inc. After all, Marissa


    worked there, and it would be a sure thing for her to have climbed the corporatedder in such a way


    from an assistant.


    The public was not blind, and they had quite the imagination. Before long, a wave of public opinion was


    heading straight towards Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    I watched as more and more posts appeared, and I snorted coldly. ¡°Jan, there''s no way back for you


    now. I will bring you down.¡±


    While the inte was in an uproar, Jan, who had been missing all night, suddenly returned home.

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156


    I was nestledfortably on the couch, my full attention devoted to the unfolding drama online.


    Suddenly, Jan burst into the room, causing me to jump out of my skin. Instinctively, I shot him a


    fierce re. Whether he was unnerved by guilt or the intensity of my gaze, I could not tell. But my eyes


    had stopped his hasty strides.


    As he loomed over me, I finally registered his unexpected return. Was he desperate? What was he


    doing here? I stared back at him, cold as ice, intent on discerning his true purpose, but his next move


    took me utterly by surprise.


    Jan, always so proud and aloof, fell to his knees before me with a soft ''thud''.


    I narrowed my eyes but remained silent, waiting for him to speak first.


    "Honey, I''m sorry. I know you saw those things online. But just hear me out! I can exin." He


    implored, inching closer towards me on his knees, desperate and hurried.


    Yet, I maintained my icy demeanor and didn''t utter a word, curious to see how he''d y his hand.


    Moreover, I needed time to think about my next move. His sudden appearance disrupted my previous


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    n. Surly, premature ns could not catch the change of situations.


    Seeing my unyielding silence, Jan moved even closer. "Honey, you have to hear me out. Those are


    baseless rumors. You can''t believe a word of it. Thosementers are so irresponsible. They''re just


    defaming me. They''re making up things that don''t exist. You know why Marissa has be my


    assistant. It was at your behest that I trusted her. I won''t deny that she''s devoted to her work, but I


    know nothing about her personal life!"


    He had carefully chosen and managed his words to absolve him of any responsibility, shifting the


    me onto me instead. I had underestimated his silver-tongued skill.


    Suddenly, I threw my head back andughed out loud. Theughter was so forceful that tears welled in


    my eyes and streamed down my face. Listen. He was desperate to flip the narrative at the moment. He


    must think I''m aplete fool!


    Taken aback by my reaction, Jan reached out to hold me, but I reared back and roared, "Get out of


    my face!"


    His hand hung in mid-air. "Honey, calm down. Think about your health. Please, hear me out!"


    My outburst drew Helga into the room. She was visibly shocked by the scene before her and seemed


    unsure of what to do.


    Despite his usual pride, Jan was too desperate to care about appearances. He continued to inch


    closer, his voice pleading, "Honey, please calm down! It¡¯s not true at all. I suspect someone''s trying to


    sabotage us! Think about it, Allie. Think about the timing of this scandal. They broke it out at this time


    as if they wanted to sabotage the overseas expansion of Medsafe Liyah Inc.. If we mishandle this, we


    could lose everything. So, honey, you need to stay calm!"


    I scoffed inwardly. He really believed he was a big shot.


    "Give it a second thought. If I go down now, Medsafe Liyah Inc. will undoubtedly suffer. All our efforts


    will be in vain!" He looked genuinely distressed, indicating that he was genuinely concerned about the


    future of Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    "Are you afraid?" I mocked, my eyes filled with contempt. "Jan, do you really care about Medsafe


    Liyah Inc.?"


    I was ying the fool. Of course, he cared about Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    "Honey, what are you talking about? Medsafe Liyah Inc. is your life''s work! How could I not care!" His


    fervent deration was indeed convincing.


    Iughed, a manicughter echoing in the room.


    "Honey, please! I couldn''t care less about myself, but you and Medsafe Liyah Inc. can''t be in trouble!


    We need to unite against our enemies. We must..."


    Snap! My hand was numb after pping his face swiftly.


    The sound echoed in the room, followed by a deafening silence!

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    Chapter 157


    The silence was deafening, way too loud for my liking!


    Jan''s face was deathly pale, and I could tell he was ufortable in his heart. For the past decade,


    he had yed the part of my devoted partner, but mymitment to him was genuine. I had always


    treated him with respect, considering him my rock. But what had he done for me in return? When


    trouble struck, he came crawling back to me like a whipped dog and begging for my forgiveness.


    It was toote!


    "Jan, you''ve got some nerve! After causing such a terrible mess, how dare youe to me looking


    for solidarity! Have you ever thought of standing by me while Iy sick in bed and when you were with


    your mistress?" I had already risen to my feet, looking down at the pathetic man kneeling before me.


    I had been itching to p him for the longest time, and the satisfaction of finally doing so was


    indescribable!


    Jan''s face contorted, and he had the audacity to meet my gaze. "Aaliyah, I didn''t do anything to hurt


    you. You''re the only one in my heart!" Jan straightened his body as he knelt. I had no idea what


    gave him the courage to do so. If it weren''t for all the evidence I had gathered, I might have believed


    him.


    I raised my hand and pped him again. "You''re still lying even now!"


    Jan reeled from the impact, his jaw clenching in visible anger. I hated his guts.


    I pointed at him. saying, "The bastard son is Evan, right? No wonder your mother sings his praises to


    high heaven. I remember asking his teacher and finding out his name was Evan Dawson. I thought it


    was such a coincidence that he had the surname of Dawson,too. It was so funny!"


    "It has nothing to do with me!" Jan stubbornly defended himself.


    "Fine. It has nothing to do with you, huh!" I shook with fury. Actually, my body was really cooperating


    with my act. Whenever I got nervous or even slightly excited, I turned into this emotional wreck.


    "Please, my love! You''re the only one who can save Medsafe Liyah Inc. now!" Jan pleaded, his eyes


    bloodshot from desperation. "Just calm down. Let''s not make things worse. Once this blows over, I''ll


    make it up to you. I promise I¡¯ll give you an exnation. You''ll be pleased!"


    Iughed bitterly within. ¡°Pleased? It''s that I must make you pleased.¡±


    He tried everything he could to persuade me, "You don''t want to ruin everything over such a small


    matter..."


    "Small matter?" I interrupted him, staring at him fiercely.


    "No... not small!" Jan conceded, "But we can''t just watch as Medsafe Liyah Inc. falls apart!"


    I fell silent, a new n forming in my mind. He was right. I couldn''t let some little bitch destroy Medsafe


    Liyah Inc. It wasn''t the right time yet. I had to y my cards right.


    I red at Jan, my voice cold and resolute. "Listen carefully, Jan. I won''t stand by and watch


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. copse, but that''s as far as my obligation goes. Because once Gevena pulls her


    support, all our dreams will shatter. And I will be too ashamed to stand in front of her again. You''ve


    already ruined my reputation once, and I can''t let her look down on me again." I deliberately mentioned


    Gevena for leverage.


    I had to turn the tables on this situation with Jan''s guilt to continue ying this game with him.


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    It essentially meant he was digging his own grave and asking for trouble.


    "Honey, you''re so right. We can''t fall for the trap of those malicious people!" Jan immediately agreed


    with me.


    "Jan, pushing for this partnership now is something I want!" I dered, "Because expanding


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. has always been my goal."


    Jan gritted his teeth, nodding in agreement. The level of restraint he was showing was impressive.


    "Or else, I wouldn''t give a damn about Medsafe Liyah Inc., because... I''ve got plenty more where that


    came from. If this one falls, I''ll just start another!" I boldly told him, my words filled with confidence and


    dominance.


    "Honey, I knew you would understand! Thank you, honey!" Jan grasped my intentions, immediately


    trying to get up and hold my hand.


    "On your kneels!" Imanded harshly.


    He promptly knelt down again!


    I cursed under my breath, ¡°Just wait and see how much worse I can make this for you!¡± I hoped Logan,


    who was monitoring our exchange, could read between the lines of my words and act ordingly.


    I turned and strode upstairs, immediately dialing Gevena. I asked her to pressure Jan, and she


    proved to be a valuable ally, understanding my intentions immediately. She simply responded with an


    "OK" before hanging up.


    I quickly changed into fresh clothes and descended the stairs leisurely.


    Meanwhile, the inte was still abuzz with the scandal, the story gaining more and more attention. I


    needed to create another opportunity.

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158


    Logan absolutely didn''t disappoint me. When I reached Medsafe Liyah Inc., he had already paved the


    way for me.


    All at once, a surge of power appeared online, furiously denouncing the person who had previously


    been implied, even listing down Mr. Dawson and his wife''s loving reputation over the past decade. It


    had attracted a lot of followers, confirming this as an undeniable fact.


    It was bing interesting. Immediately, a divide appeared online, with one side shouting not to


    spread rumors and siding with the loving couple, while the other side insisted on tearing off the mask


    and arguing for patronage.


    Soon, someone posted photos of Hazel and Marissa attending business gatherings in an intimate


    manner, along with photos of them picking up Marissa¡¯s child together. The focus immediately turned


    towards the men from the Dawson family.


    Especially the photo of Hazel holding Evan, looking content and grinning from ear to ear, was rather


    infectious.


    Following that, more and more photos of Marissa and Jan began toe into the eyes of the public.


    However, just as everyone''s attention was on Jan, a number of intimate photos of Marissa and


    Jerome flooded the inte, instantly causing an uproar in Goldenvale Town.


    Netizens were divided into two groups, constantly analyzing the details to determine who the child''s


    father was. There were rumors that a bigger reveal was yet toe.


    That was when I appeared in the public eye in a tailored business suit, looking bold and sassy with my


    short hair.


    Jan was right by my side, and we still looked like the loving, protective couple we always were.


    I brushed aside the speech prepared for me by the PRpany and stood directly in front of the


    media.


    Damn it! No one was going to tie me down. I would make my own decision.


    In front of the medias, I shifted all the me onto Jerome. I even made up a story about how Marissa


    had betrayed my trust and stabbed Medsafe Liyah Inc. in the back at its most difficult time, causing me


    to fall ill. It was Jan who silently took up all the burdens.


    My half-hour performance sessfully pulled Jan out of the scandal. Out of the corner of my eye, I


    saw him looking relieved and somewhat self-satisfied.


    However, I wasn''t trying to clear his name, but to increase the hostility between the two men of the


    Dawson family. And as expected, after the media conference ended, Jerome stormed into Jan''s


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    office, pointing at me and growling, "Aaliyah, you''ve got guts! How dare you speak nonsense in front of


    the media? You''re asking for trouble."


    I trembled, clutching my chest as I looked at him. "I don¡¯t want any trouble, but all of you keep pissing


    me off at all times! I have guts? That''s because the Dawson family has forced me to do that. What else


    could I do?"


    I stared back at him. Jerome gritted his teeth, veins bulging in his neck, and red at me.


    With a dismissiveugh, I pointed to the people gathered around. "Look, take a look. Are any of these


    people in the first and second row from the Wilburn family? Don''t forget that you Dawsons are all riding


    on the sess of Medsafe Liyah Inc.! Ah, you want to beg for money but still keep up appearances?


    Surely, I can''t tell people that I¡¯m the one who is cheating on the marriage, right?"


    "You..."


    "Ask your brother to see if I have done anything wrong. He begged me to save Medsafe Liyah Inc., and


    someone had to make the sacrifice, right? But he''s my husband, the current captain of Medsafe Liyah


    Inc.. Or should I save you instead? What? You want to take yourself out of trouble and let Jan take


    the heat? Will the public believe that?


    If you could have controlled yourselves as not to have fucked around, would we be in this situation?


    You''re the ones asking for trouble, not me. It was my mistake that I have handed Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    over to you, let a bunch of good-for-nothing like you ruin it, and then had to clean up your mess!" My


    voice grew louder as I spoke, almost yelling.


    Of course, Jan wouldn''t dare to argue with me at this point. He coldly said, "Jerome, please see the


    bigger picture!"


    "Shut the fuck up! Are you really under this woman''s thumb?" Jerome cursed crudely, "She''s just trying


    to sow discord!"


    I was secretly surprised. This Jerome wasn''t an idiot, after all.

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159


    I turned my gaze towards Jan and shifted the focus to him, aiming to widen the rift between these


    two.


    ¡°Jan, did I do anything wrong?¡± I looked assertively at Jan, who looked ghastly pale.


    ¡°Who was I doing this for? You were the one begging me on your knees just now. I stood here,


    swallowing my pride, speaking words against my heart for the sake of ourpany, and for our


    children! Tell me, where did I go wrong?¡± I pointed an usatory finger at Jan.


    Jerome red at me venomously. ¡°Don''t you dare y your little tricks with me! You¡¯ll be sorry!¡±


    I snorted, ¡°Tricks? As far as I see it, you two are the ones ying tricks. You both know damn well


    who''s been fooling around with Marissa! So, Jerome, you''re saying that you don''t mind the world


    knowing that you and your dear brother are jointly supporting a little bitch?¡±


    ¡°You are theughing stock of the town, aren''t you? Are the brothers of Medsafe Liyah Inc. so hard up


    that they need to pool resources to keep a mistress? I even feel ashamed for you guys. If you''re short


    of money, I can pitch in, but just don''t keep her!¡±


    ¡°Aaliyah, one more word! I¡¯ll tear your damn mouth!¡± Jerome advanced towards me, but Jan stepped


    in to block him.


    ¡°What? Since the media is still out there, you want me to announce it to them again? Surely, the lead


    man is not just you, but also your dear brother!¡± I shot a provocative look at Jerome. ¡°You''re not even


    afraid of catching AIDS!¡±


    ¡°Bloody hell! You bitch! I swear I''ll kill you!¡± Jerome cursed violently, my words stinging him.


    I chuckled. ¡°Jan, didn''t you hear him? He''s sleeping with your mistress and threatening to kill your


    wife. Are you some sort of coward? Shit! My family spends money only to nurture a bunch of ungrateful


    wretches. As soon as you''re sated, you don''t hesitate to turn around and bite the hand that fed them!¡±


    Iughed at the sight of the Dawson brothers, their faces red with fury.


    ¡°Funny. Let me tell you this. I couldn''t care less about the fate of Medsafe Liyah Inc. Without it, I''m still


    rich. I want to see how you Dawson brothers would strut around then.¡± As I finished, I stoppedughing


    and looked at them disdainfully. ¡°Don''t you ever forget that before I married into the Dawson family, you


    were all living hand to mouth and sleeping in the same room like a pack of rats.¡±


    Jesper, who had been silent, finally spoke, ¡°Enough, Aaliyah, you''re crossing the line!¡±


    I shot him a look. ¡°Am I? Jesper, don''t forget how you''ve finished your education. Now you say I¡¯m


    crossing the line? Oh, you think you are a badass now? Feeling high and mighty?¡±


    My words left Jesper speechless. Even Jessica, standing by my side, red at me in rage.


    I waved dismissively, ¡°Let Medsafe Liyah Inc. crash then! All of you will be screwed. I''d love to see


    where you will get your fucking money to keep a whore! I¡¯d love to see how you are going to draw the


    public¡¯s attention with a god-digger bitch who seduces men for money!¡±


    As soon as I finished, Jerome raised his hand, aiming a p at me.


    I was scared and closed my eyes, bracing for the hit, but it never came. I opened my eyes, seeing a


    tall, gentlemanly man holding Jerome''s wrist, looking at him calmly. ¡°Mr. Dawson, think twice!¡±


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    I guessed this must be Caleb.


    Jan finally erupted, ¡°Enough, Jerome! I''m still here, and you dare toy a finger on her? Don¡¯t you


    think you¡¯ve gone too far?¡±


    Jerome shook off Caleb''s hand, pointing at me. ¡°Aaliyah, just wait and see. One day, I''ll shut you up.¡±


    I gave him a disdainful look. ¡°Well, you''ll have to wait until I''m dead!¡±


    With that, I made no effort to prolong the confrontation, walking out and mming the door behind me.

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160


    As expected, the PR stunt worked like a charm, turning the online tide against Jerome and giving


    Jan some respite.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    I was only giving him a brief respite because I had to use this opportunity to take back what I wanted.


    After taking care of all that, I rushed to pick up Monique. Without wasting any time, I bought ne


    tickets for us and headed straight for Silverdale City together with three kids and Helga.


    I did this for several reasons. I intentionally left some space for Jan to clean up his mess. Once this


    mess was handled, it would inevitably cause conflicts. I was just leaving them to tear each other apart.


    Also, I must deal with the nanny situation in Silverdale City as soon as possible. I had no idea how


    much my parents knew, but it was time to talk to them.


    What I didn''t know was that the situation in Silverdale City was way beyond my imagination.


    Whennding in Silverdale City and stepping into Oldtown Avenue, a familiar smell greeted us.


    I vaguely remembered thest time we were here, Monique was only about 4 or 5 years old, and


    Probert was about the age as Carl.


    Monique had grown to be a beautiful youngdy. At home, she was a bit rebellious, but she was


    suddenly a lot more obedient here.


    When I picked her up, she was visibly upset, huffing and asking me, "Why did youe to pick me up?


    Where''s dad?"


    She was resistant to my arrangement when she got home and heard that we were flying right away,


    and she had been sulking for a long time, even ignoring Helga.


    It was only on the ne that she couldn''t help but ask me, "Why did we change the nanny?"


    I told her the previous nanny had returned to her hometown to get married. She then sulked back into


    her seat, pretending to sleep. I chose to ignore her sulking and let her deal with it on her own.


    Probert kindly told her, "Monique, I really like Helga. Her cooking is good, and you''ll know once you try


    it!" Probert had be my secret weapon.


    We hadn''t been back here for a long time, especially Monique, who was excited to see the dreamy


    Oldtown Avenue.


    The moment the car reached the corner of Oldtown Avenue, even I was surprised. The old, serious


    Oldtown Avenue was adorned with vibrant coloredmps. It was serene, antique yet passionate,


    looking breathtakingly beautiful.


    This was a sight I hadn''t seen in years. I only dreamed it once or twice.


    Monique immediately wanted to get out of the car. I told the driver stop for her and asked her if she


    could find her grandmother''s house on her own. She looked at me with disdain and said, "What''s so


    hard about that? Isn''t grandma''s house the biggest one?"


    Before I could respond, Probert looked up at me and said, "Mommy, I can go with her!"


    I was pleased. Probert is really thoughtful. I looked into the depths of Oldtown Avenue and said


    excitedly, "Then mommy will go, too!"


    Monique''s eyes lit up at my words, and I thought to myself, "Gotcha!¡±


    Our arrival made the old house feel like a festival.


    My mom said that the coloredmps on the street were prepared by several Oldtown Avenue residents


    who still lived there at my dad''s request when we were on the ne.


    "This is ceremonial, isn''t it?" Monique looked at thenterns with an air of arrogance, holding her


    grandmother''s arm.


    "Our little princess is back. Of course, we need to make it ceremonial!" My mom couldn''t stop smiling,


    looking at me and saying, "Oh, can you believe it? When you left, you were alone. Now you''vee


    back with three little angels like you. That''s quite an achievement!"


    I frowned. "Mom, is that really an achievement?"


    "Of course it is. What our family need is more people. You''re a hero!" My mom looked at me


    affectionately and proudly. "We could always have more!"


    It warmed Helga''s heart, and even Carl, who was in her arms, started to squeal excitedly.


    Catherine¡¯s father Kenney and his families were at our house, making it quite lively. Seeing my three


    children, all lively and handsome, Catherine''s mom couldn''t help but pinch their faces in admiration.


    "Catherine is just messing around. Look at Aaliyah''s kids. They''re so adorable!"


    She then called her own grandchildren over to y with Monique and Probert. In no time, a swarm of


    kids was running around, having a great time!


    I finally met the nanny, Marissa¡¯s aunt.

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161


    Our middle-aged nanny, Gemma, was still as attractive and radiant as ever. She was as chatty and


    friendly as Marissa. I could see her bustling around everywhere in the house.


    In the evening, we didn¡¯t throw a big party, but almost all the remaining households in Oldtown Avenue


    came. It felt like a block party, something I hadn''t seen in quite a while.


    The most heartwarming part was seeing how happy my parents were. They stuck by my side as if they


    were afraid I would disappear again.


    It was only then that Jan found out I had flown back to Silverdale City. He quickly video-called, with a


    hint of resentment in his voice that I hadn''t informed him of my return.


    I scoffed inwardly. Why should I have informed him? Those old times were gone!


    From the video, he saw the backyard packed with people and immediately switched to his charming


    persona, asking about me and the kids.


    My dad, smiling from ear to ear, asked him why he hadn''te along. Jan lied, saying he was busy


    with crucial overseas business negotiations and couldn¡¯t make it. It was as if he had nothing to do with


    the drama that unfolded earlier that day. Apparently, after I left, Jan and Jerome had a big fight.


    Jerome even smashed up the office, scaring the shit out of everyone.


    Logan had sent me a video of the incident, but I hadn''t had the time to watch it yet.


    Jan was chatting joyfully with my dad, dutifully reporting on his overseas business prospects and


    showing how much he was valued by city officials.


    I couldn''t help but roll my eyes.


    My dad asked him to visit as soon as possible. Jan promptly agreed, promising toe as soon as


    he sorted things out.


    My father, perhaps affected by a couple of sses of wine, jovially said, "I thought you could make it. I


    have a project I want to discuss with you! Since you''re dealing with foreign clients, it''s a great


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    opportunity!"


    Jan, energized, asked eagerly, "What project is it?"


    "Something in pharmaceuticals!" my dad answered cryptically.


    ¡°Is it with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?¡± He asked keenly.


    ¡°Hey! We can talk more about it when youe here! I¡¯ve had a few drinks, and we have guests, so


    let¡¯s leave it for now!¡± my dad tactfully shifted the conversation.


    Jan, clearly wanting more details, quickly said, ¡°Alright! I''ll be there the soonest!¡±


    Then he switched to the perfect husband mode, repeatedly reminding me to take care of myself, eat


    small, frequent meals, and not to overindulge. His affectionate words drew admiring nces and


    murmurs of approval from the crowd. However, I cursed him under my breath.


    Later, I asked my dad, "What project are you nning to discuss with Jan?"


    With a gentle smile, my dad said, "I want to discuss something about VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals!"


    I hesitated, unsure of how to express my concerns to my dad.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry! It''s just a chat!" my dadfortingly patted my shoulder, hinting, "Sweetie,


    it''s good to have you back! It''s really good!"


    Just then, Gemma walked in with arge tray of fruits, "Ms Aaliyah, Mr. And Mrs. Wilburn have been


    eagerly waiting for you! Your return brought life to the house. It''s livelier than during Christmas."


    It was as if she had celebrated Christmas with us.


    I gave her a friendly smile. "You name is Gemma, right? Thanks for taking care of my parents.¡±


    ¡°No problem! It¡¯s just my job. Mr. And Mrs. Wilburn have been very kind to me!" she replied, her face


    full of ttery and her eyes twinkling.


    "You must be tired after a long day. You should go take a rest. I''ll chat with my parents for a while.


    Please take care of Helga for me."


    Gemma assured me, "Of course, Ms Aaliyah! You can count on me! I''ll leave you guys to chat."


    After she left, I turned to my mother. "Is she doing a good job?"


    "She''s diligent, but a bit gossipy," my mom replied, her eyes still on the door. Her guardedness took me


    by surprise.


    ¡°Mom! She¡­¡± I started, looking at the door.


    ¡°One can never be too careful,¡± she said, patting my hand.


    I felt relieved. "I''m d you''ve been careful!"

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162


    That night, I slept like a log, just like I used to before I left home. It was as if nothing had changed, and I


    was still the apple of my parents'' eyes, carefree and strolling down Oldtown Avenue, filled with


    excitement for the life ahead. So, I lost track of time in my dreams.


    I didn''t wake up until ten the next day, and even then, only because my mom had woken me for


    breakfast.


    At the table, my mom looked at me with concern. "Are you overworked?"


    "Yeah, I am a bit tired," I replied, noticing Gemma was lingering nearby. "I just feel so exhausted all the


    time. I just want to sleep, especially when I''m home and more rxed now."


    I gave my mom a knowing look, and she immediately agreed, "You do need a good rest. You''ve looked


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    quite weaktely."


    "Where are Monique and the others?" I looked around and asked, not seeing them anywhere.


    "Oh, they hit it off with the Damon family''s granddaughter. They quickly grabbed some breakfast and


    took Probert out to the street. You don''t have to worry. they don''t allow cars on Oldtown Avenue. It''s


    safe," my mom said with augh. "Monique is growing to be such a beauty. She looks slightly like you


    and reminds me of you when you were young."


    "Only slightly?" I asked proudly, "I think she resembles me quite a bit."


    "Well, they say daughters take after their fathers. The Dawsons are a good-looking bunch, so Monique


    is a real beauty-in-the-making! Probert takes after you more!" As my mom spoke, she peeled an egg


    for me.


    Seeing me eat heartily, her eyes filled with tenderness.


    "Are you implying that I''m not pretty enough?" I teased as I ate.


    My mom shot me a yful re. "Don¡¯t be silly. Who would dare to say my daughter isn''t beautiful?


    Back in the day, everyone on this street was impressed by my girl¡¯s pretty face!"


    I chuckled, feeling grateful for being able to stay by my mom¡¯s side.


    Hearing our conversation, Gemma chimed in, "Absolutely! Ms Aaliyah, you¡¯re a real beauty. I''ve seen


    pictures in your room and thought you were one in a million. But in person, you''re even more stunning."


    I nced at my mom and shared a knowing smile with her. "And mom says my daughter is even


    prettier!"


    Gemma agreed immediately, "Indeed, Miss Monique is even more stunning. She takes the best of both


    her parents!"


    "Gemma, you''re really good at givingpliments!" I praised her.


    Then, I turned to my mom and asked, "What about Carl?"


    My mom paused, deep in thought. "Carl... He''s still too young to tell. His facial features... do resemble


    the Dawson family a bit, but not quite."


    "So, you''re saying he doesn''t look like anyone?" I jokingly teased.


    My momughed, lightly poking my forehead. "Every child is unique. We can''t expect them all to look


    like their parents. He''s still too young, and we''ll tell when he grows up. Each of the three children has


    their own charm!"


    "You''re right, mom. But then again, Probert is the most caring one. Despite his young age, he''s quite


    thoughtful," I admitted. Probert and I had been spending a lot of time together recently, and we got


    along really well.


    My mom nodded. "If we train him well, he could achieve great things in the future."


    Just then, my phone buzzed beside me. I quickly pulled a tissue to clean my hands and picked it up. It


    was Geneva!


    I nced at Gemma, who was still tidying up the dishes, staying within earshot. I smiled faintly,


    signaled my mom with the phone, and headed out to the yard to answer the call.


    "How''s going in Silverdale City? Is everything okay?" Geneva asked, as I had shared my itinerary with


    her before leaving.


    "All good! How''s everything on your end?" I asked Geneva.


    "I''ve arranged everything, and we''re on track!" Geneva replied, "I''ve set out the conditions for the asset


    verification. Do you want to take a look and see if anything is missing? I''ve also spoken to my


    husband!"


    "Thank you so much, Geneva. I owe you big time." I sincerely thanked Geneva. "Geneva, I''m afraid


    there''s another favor I need to ask you."

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163


    When Geneva heard me speak like this, she immediately responded, "Hey, don''t fret about the trouble.


    Just tell me what you need! As long as it''s within my power, consider it done!"


    "Thank you! You''re the only one who can handle this!"


    "Then spill it!" Geneva''s tone was decisive. "Your situation is so damn odd. I couldn''t ignore it even if I


    wanted to."


    "We need to sweeten the deal for Jessica. She''s greedy and always splitting hair. Give her..." I


    whispered a few words softly.


    Geneva immediately caught my drift. "I got it!"


    "No one else can handle this, and I wouldn''t trust anyone else to. Jessica may not be the sharpest tool


    in the shed, but she¡¯s way too suspicious. So, the person who can pull this off must be someone she


    trusts. But Geneva, don''t get involved in it directly. Just help me set the stage." I cautioned Geneva, "I''ll


    get someone to cover the rest of the job. I don''t want you to get into unnecessary trouble."


    "Alright! I''ll handle it!" Geneva agreed readily, "Rest assured! She wouldn''t suspect me in a million


    years!"


    "That''s why I said you were the only one who could pull off this n!" I saw Gemma carrying a basin


    out, bending over to look at the orchids in the yard not far from me.


    I immediately switched to a lighter tone. "Well, I won''t keep you. I look forward to hearing good news. I''ll


    treat you to dinnerter!"


    Geneva instantly caught on to my difort and didn''t press further. We exchanged a few polite words


    before ending the call.


    She then sent me the capital verification n, which I read carefully, added a couple of points, and sent


    it back to her.


    I then pocketed my phone, nced at Gemma, and casually walked over to her. "Gemma, does my


    father also entrust you with these orchids?"


    Gemma smiled warmly. "Yes, your father treasures these orchids! I water them every day."


    "That isn''t right. These flowers don''t need watering every day. Didn''t my dad tell you?" I looked at her


    with a feigned surprise. I knew very well that she was eavesdropping. "Gemma, you don''t have to work


    so hard. Let my dad tend to these nts. He wouldn''t want them to get hurt."


    She gave an awkwardugh. "Yeah, I really am not too confident in handling these orchids. Your father


    is very protective of them!"


    "Where are you from, Gemma?" I asked her, making small talk.


    "Ie from a ce that''s a good ways off.!"


    "So how did you end up in Silverdale City?" I asked in mock surprise, "How did you meet my


    husband?" I was quite direct with my questions.


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    As expected, she was taken aback. "I... I''m alone. I don''t have much family left, and I like the climate in


    Silverdale City. An old friend from my hometown moved here, so I followed. I didn''t know Mr. Dawson.


    He found me on the job market. It''s fate! It''s a blessing to get to know your family. They are such good


    people!"


    I smiled and nodded in agreement. "Yes! My parents are gentle and kind. You''re indeed lucky! Do you


    have any children?"


    She shook her head with sorrow filled her face. "I had a son once, but he died from leukemia."


    "Do you have any other rtives? Like siblings, nephews, or nieces?" I continued my line of


    questioning.


    "No!" She replied definitively.


    I raised an eyebrow, chuckling inwardly, thinking that she was trying too hard to appear innocent.


    "It''s tough, isn''t it? Just do your best here! As long as you do a good job, we won''t let you down!" I


    reassured her gently before heading back inside.


    After lunch, I leisurely strolled out of my yard, meandering down Oldtown Avenue. This ce had not


    changed much. It was old and historic but had its own charm. I must admire my father''s foresight in


    buying arge portion of Oldtown Avenue and submitting a development proposal to the city council.


    He was a sly old fox.


    If this ce were to be developed, it would certainly be a sight to behold, rivaling anymercial


    ancient town back home.


    In a nearby alley, I could hear the cheerfulughter of children, but couldn''t see anyone. I assumed


    they were my children.


    Just as I was about to go over to take a look, a familiar voice came from behind me. "Aaliyah!"

 Chapter 164

    Chapter 164


    I abruptly halted, ncing back to see a figure emerging from an alley, tall and imposing.But that face


    looked so unfamiliar to me.


    "Ro... Ronan?" I stuttered, "Is that you? What are you doing here?"


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    The corners of his lips curled into a smile as he strode towards me, stopping just a yard away. His


    deep, unwavering eyes regarded me just as they did years ago.


    The sight brought back memories of our first year in college when we had returned to Silverdale City for


    the holidays. I had been thrilled to bump into him in this very alley, especially since it was rare to see


    outsiders here. I had asked if he was here to see me, but he had denied it, iming he was just


    passing by.


    The excuse had always seemed flimsy. Later, Ronan wanted me to show him around Oldtown Avenue.


    I excitedly took him to every corner, even squeezing into the narrowest alleys. He had jokingly dubbed


    me as the Princess of Oldtown Avenue.


    "You were just passing by?" I queried, my gaze fixed on him.


    He chuckled, never taking his eyes off me. "You still remember that?"


    "Of course!" I shrugged. "I remember everything!"


    As the words left my lips, I blushed, realizing I might have said something wrong.


    "Who knew you''d really be the Princess of Oldtown Avenue this time!" He looked away, his eyes


    taking in the surroundings. "Want me to show you around again?"


    "You?" I tilted my head back, questioning him. "Can you?"


    "Let''s find out!" Despite his unfamiliar smile, there was an undeniable charm about him, which was a


    mature man''s allure.


    "Let''s do it then!" I stepped beside him, indicating for him to lead the way.


    With a smile, he put his hands in his pockets. We then walked ahead shoulder to shoulder.


    With each step we took, he recounted what I had said and how I had introduced each spot when we


    had first walked through there.


    "You know, it was strange that I¡¯d never explored Oldtown Avenue despite being a Silverdale City


    native," Ronan mused. "If I had known you were here, I would havee sooner. And I would have


    met you earlier."


    "What difference would it make? We met anyway," I remarked lightly, secretly resentful inside.


    His words were true. If we had met earlier, my life might have been different. Who knows?


    "If we had met earlier, it might have changed your destiny. Maybe our princess wouldn''t have been in


    distress." His voice echoed in my ears, bringing me to a sudden halt.


    "Is that what you think?" My eyes started to mist.


    He turned to look at me, his gaze steady. "Yes."


    I lowered my gaze, not wanting him to see the sorrow in my eyes. Yes, it was sorrow.


    If he hadn''t suddenly dropped out of college, we... I never managed to finish this sentence.


    We walked in silence for a while, each lost in our own thoughts.


    Finally, I couldn¡¯t bear with it and broke the silence. "Why did you suddenly drop out?"


    "It was sudden to you, but it was also sudden to me," he said gloomily. "I didn''t have a choice."


    He said he didn¡¯t have a choice. What a good excuse.


    He nced at me. "I suddenly received a transfer order and had to leave immediately."


    "But you were just a student, weren¡¯t you?" I questioned, thinking he was just making excuses to brush


    me off.


    "No!" He asserted. "I''ve always been a public servant. My entire family is. That''s why I was sent for


    special training when I was only ten."


    I stared at him, stunned. His eyes flickered with pain, but his expression remained firm.


    "It''s my mission," he stated resolutely.


    I gave a faint smile and nodded. I wanted to say it was my fate then, but the words died on my lips. We


    had missed each other for twelve long years since he left. Time had changed everything, and I lost my


    chance to speak up.


    "How did you get hurt? I mean your face." I changed the subject, not wanting to delve into the past


    anymore. It was pointless, wasn''t it?


    "I was injured on a mission, and had to face-lift," his tone was casual.


    "And your hand?" I asked softly.


    "Yes," he replied in a low voice. "It was severe. I was lucky to survive."

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165


    I let my eyshes veil the tears welling up in my eyes. For some inexplicable reason, I found it hard to


    hold back my emotions that day.


    We strolled down a secluded path, our footsteps the only sound echoing in the quiet alleys.


    ¡°Addrion''s in the hospital. His injuries are pretty severe. It¡¯ll take quite a while for him to recover.¡±


    Ronan said, ¡°I can take you to see him when you''re ready.¡±


    ¡°He''s in Silverdale City?¡± I halted mid-step, turning to look at Ronan.


    ¡°Yes. It''s a safer ce.¡±


    ¡°Will you be staying in Silverdale City?¡± I asked him, hoping for a positive response.


    He shook his head. ¡°No.¡±


    I wanted to ask where he would primarily be, but I held my tongue.


    ¡°What about your parents'' nanny? How are you going to deal with her?¡±


    ¡°I''ll discuss it with my parents first. But not now. With Jan¡¯s issue still unresolved... I need to reim


    what''s rightfully mine! Only when I get rid of him in my life can I proceed. Or else, I fear he will get


    suspicious!¡± My tone turned bloody cold. ¡°Those damn prying eyes are so annoying...¡±


    ¡°Until the Oldtown Avenue project is finalized, you all are safe. We''ve got the situation under control!¡±


    Ronan assured me, possibly sensing my apprehension.


    ¡°Under control? You know about the Oldtown Avenue project, too?¡± I was shocked, wondering just how


    much Ronan knew.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ronan responded quietly, ¡°I know that Oldtown Avenue just as well as you do, maybe even


    better now.¡±


    My heart sank a little. I realized why he might be more familiar with the ce. It meant he had visited


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    here frequently. But as to why he did so, I didn''t want to or have the nerve to ask.


    Sometimes, daydreaming was more pleasant than reality.


    Suddenly, a group of children''sughter and yful shouts echoed from a nearby alley. A small bike


    shot out from it at lightning speed. By the time I realized the impending danger, it was toote. I let out


    a scream, shutting my eyes in fear.


    I felt a grip tighten around my waist, and my feet lifted off the ground. The next thing I heard was a


    startled cry, followed by the ttering sound of a bike toppling over. It was chaos!


    I quickly opened my eyes to find Ronan had hoisted me under his arm while he held my daughter with


    the other to keep her from getting hurt. The bikey toppled on the side, and a group of youngsters


    stood frozen in the alley, their faces mirroring shock.


    Embarrassed, I gestured for Ronan to let us down. He simply grinned at me contently. ¡°Scared?¡±


    ¡°Put me down!¡± I whispered.


    He gently set me back on my feet and let go. I immediately took my daughter from his arms. ¡°Monique,


    are you okay?¡±


    Monique was scared out. She looked at me, bewildered, then at Ronan. Her cheeks turned pink as she


    clung to my neck. ¡°Mom, that scared the life out of me.¡±


    This was the first time in a while she had been so close to me.


    ¡°You were riding the bike?¡± I asked her, noticing the fallen bicycle. I was surprised, wondering since


    when she learned to ride a bike.


    ¡°You can''t ride in the alleyways anymore. It''s dangerous!¡± I admonished her. She looked up at me with


    her flushed face andughed. ¡°Okay, mom! You are such a nag!¡±


    Probert rushed over and grabbed my hand. ¡°Mommy, that scared me to death. I thought she was going


    to hit you!¡±


    Then he looked at Ronan in awe.


    ¡°Don''t forget to thank this gentleman!¡± I prompted, ¡°He''s mommy''s old ssmate.¡±


    Both children thanked him in unison. Ronan ruffled Probert¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Sir, you''re so cool!¡± Probert eximed genuinely.


    Ronan shed a radiant smile. ¡°Want to be as cool as me?¡±


    Probert¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°Can I, sir?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I started my training when I was ten. Want to give it a shot when you turn ten?¡± he asked


    gently.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Probert eagerly responded, showing no hesitation and not even bothering to ask for my


    approval.


    The other children watched enviously, chattering among themselves.


    Monique picked up her bike after Ronan put her down The handlebars went skewed. She looked at it


    helplessly.


    Ronan stepped in and straightened the bike. He checked it, then braced the front wheel against a wall


    and twisted it slightly, fixing the handlebar. He looked at Monique. ¡°Ride on the main street. It¡¯s


    dangerous to ride in the alleys. You may not be so lucky next time!¡±


    Monique giggled. ¡°Okay, off we go!¡±


    Like a little queen, she rallied her troops, and they disappeared down the alley in a sh.

 Chapter 166

    Chapter 166


    I shook my head with a sigh. "Oh, naughty kids! They¡¯re really letting loose here!"


    "It¡¯s the nature of a child. Don''t constrain them!" Ronan said softly.


    I had a question bothering me, but I couldn''t ask it out.


    Just as I was about to suggest grabbing a bite, he was called away by another phone call. As he left, I


    saw a hint of reluctance in his eyes.


    "Tomorrow I''ll pick you up to see Addrion," he said gently before disappearing the alleyway. I was left in


    a daze, wondering if what just happened was real. It felt like I had just time-traveled.


    In the afternoon, my mom instructed Gemma to go to the supermarket to buy some fresh fruits and


    vegetables. I knew my mom was intentionally sending Gemma away.


    I cast a subtle nce at Helga, who instantly understood my intention. She nodded with a smile. "Good


    timing, Carl is asleep. I''ll go grocery shopping with Gemma and see what the supermarket here has


    got!"


    "Good. Helga knows my preferences. You two go ahead. Mom and I will stay home to watch the kids.


    No rush!" I hinted to Helga not to hurry back.


    Once they left, my mom pulled me towards the door.


    "Where are we going?" I asked, puzzled.


    She remained silent until we were out of the old house. "Your dad''s study isn''t in the house anymore!


    He doesn''t keep any important stuff there, either. It''s all in another study!"


    I looked at my mom with relief. "You''ve also noticed something off about Gemma, haven''t you?"


    "Ever since she arrived, your dad has been cautious. He stopped discussing business at home and


    decided to use the hall at the back of the Wood Manor as his study. He pretended to be going to


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, but in reality, he was just going there! At home, he only dealt with daily life


    and avoided other topics!"


    "How did Dad know she wasn''t trustworthy?"


    Mom looked at me and squeezed my hand tighter, a hint of annoyance on her face. "It''s not that she''s


    untrustworthy. It¡¯s that we don''t trust Jan."


    I was at a loss for words at the emotions she conveyed.


    "When your calls became less frequent, we thought you were busy and didn''t have time to call. But


    cold with anger as she recounted the story.


    "Finally, he admitted you were sick. When we found out, we decided to visit you in Goldenvale Town.


    But when we were about to set off, he told us you were abroad."


    I didn''t interrupt, just listening to my mom''s story. It was exactly what I wanted to know.


    Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.


    "We went to Goldenvale Town, only to find the house empty and locked. We couldn''t get in touch with


    Jan. His phone was off!"


    "Really?" I murmured, anger surging within me. For the first time, I told my mom the truth, "Actually, I


    was at home! I never went anywhere!"


    Upon hearing this, mom stomped her foot. "I knew it, that bastard!"


    "What happened next?" I urged her.


    "We could only stay in a hotel for the night. We nned to visit the Dawson family, but without Jan,


    we didn''t know where they lived. So we went to Medsafe Liyah Inc. where Jesper had received us.


    He told us that Jan had taken you abroad. When we asked about your health condition, Jesper only


    said you were a bit lethargic, possibly a mild depression. So Jan thought it''d be good for you to get


    out and about. He assured us it wouldn''t be long and took us out for dinner. Without any other choice,


    we had to return home."


    Mom sighed and pointed at the house in front of us. "This is the Wood Manor, remember?"


    Only then did I realize we had arrived at the Wood Manor. "Mom! Did we buy the Wood Manor, too?"


    "Of course!" Mom proudly raised her head., "This Manor has cost us quite a bit. The Wood family


    refused to sell when they saw us buy the old house. Gosh, they are so greedy! They didn''t agree to sell


    until their grandson ran into trouble. It was a huge mess at the time!"

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    Chapter 167


    I walked through the gate of the Wood Manor with my mom. I had been here before, but I was quite


    young then, so my memories were faint.


    "Their grandson?" I asked, puzzled. "What happened? If I remember correctly, the grandson of the


    Wood family is not much younger than me!"


    "You''re right," my mom replied. "The Wood family''s grandson is only four years younger than you.


    Jacob Wood, the son of the current generation, has trifled away the family fortune in his hands. And his


    son is even more hopeless."


    "His son¡¯s name is Mason Wood, right?" I turned to my mom. I had some memories of him.


    "I remember him. He was a troublemaker from the start. I didn''t like him at all. He used to strut around


    the street, causing trouble everywhere. He even tried to flirt with me once. Dad saw it and scolded him.


    After that, I went to college and didn''t see him anymore."


    "Yes, he''s a real piece of work. Even his grandfather couldn''t do anything with him, not to mention his


    father! The decision to buy their house was partly because of Mason''s trouble, but mostly, it was Old


    Mr. Wood''s doing. Jacob was against selling their house to us and even tried to stop others from doing


    so."


    My mom shook her head andughed. "Initially, your dad wanted to buy the Wood Manor toplete


    his blueprint for this side of the street. If he couldn''t get it, his n wouldn''t work."


    "My dad sure has big ambitions."


    My momughed. "Yeah, he does. In your dad''s mind, he has a grand n for Oldtown Avenue! The


    Wood Manor is a key part of his n. Jacob knew your dad was serious about buying the manor, so he


    tried to inte the price.


    Your dad, however, is not someone who likes being pushed around. He got angry and stated that he


    would not buy from the Wood family. The situation was at a stalemate for a while until Mason got into


    trouble and the Wood family needed money. In the end, the Old Mr. Wood approached your dad to


    make amends, and that was how we got the house."


    "What happened to Mason?" I asked, curious.


    "He got involved in some illegal activities," my mom whispered, "ck market organ trading!"


    I was shocked and full of disbelief. "Him? Really?"


    My mom nodded. "Apparently, he has connections in the Northern Myanmar gang. There are a lot of


    hidden talents on this street!"


    I froze when I heard the words Northern Myanmar. It immediately reminded me of Jerome. That meant


    Mason was rted to Jerome, and they might even be in contact.


    Little did I know this fleeting thought wouldy the groundwork for future events. But that was a story


    for another day.


    My mom sighed and pulled me along. "Let''s go in! The Wood Manor is one of the most impressive


    houses on this street. After your dad took it over, he had it renovated. The old stained ss partitions


    are still there as they have quite a unique style."


    We toured around the Wood Manor before heading to the back yard. My dad was sitting in a rocking


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    chair in the courtyard, reading an old book.


    "I need to get back in case Carl wakes up." my mom said, "Don''t worry. I can take care of Carl. You two


    have a good chat!" After saying that, my mom left.


    I walked up to my dad''s rocking chair and leaned over to see the book he was reading. It was an old


    volume. "What book is this?"


    "The County Chronicle of Silverdale City. It''s about this street!" My dad''s tone was calm and schrly,


    sounding nothing like the businessman he was.


    "Are you still researching?" I asked casually, picked up the coffee from the old wooden table beside


    him, poured a cup of coffee for my dad and one for myself. I sat in the other rocking chair, looking at my


    dad and joked, "You want to be the king of this street?"


    My dad put down the book, picked up the cup of tea and took a sip with a soft smile. "Actually, I want


    my daughter to be the queen here, not just the princess of Oldtown Avenue! You should be the one in


    control here!"


    I nced at my dad and asked, "How do you know about the princess of Oldtown Avenue?"


    It was just a joke between me and Ronan.


    "Of course, I know. Who knows a daughter better than her father? I need to understand my own


    daughter!" He leaned back in his rocking chair and rocked leisurely. "There''s only one thing I made a


    mistake on."

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    Chapter 168


    I knew exactly what he was implying.


    "It''s not your fault, Dad. It''s mine!" I admitted without hesitation.


    "I failed you! I failed to guide your choices. I did nothing and led you to stray!" My dad hit the nail on the


    head. "And now it''s toote for regrets!"


    I felt a pang of guilt and couldn''t find my voice. Those words were too heavy.


    "Dad, when did you start suspecting him?" I asked my father, "And how did you know I was still in the


    country?"


    He replied casually, "I contacted a friend in Goldenvale Town and kept a close eye on Medsafe Liyah


    Inc. I finally found out that Jan had his hands on thepany, but without any news from you, I


    didn''t dare to act rashly."


    "Later, one of your ssmates came to see me on Oldtown Avenue, and we analyzed many details.


    We managed to locate Monique¡¯s school, hoping to get some information about your whereabouts from


    the child. But the responses we got were all the same, saying you had gone abroad for medical


    treatment!"


    "My ssmate?" I was slightly skeptical. "Which one?"


    "Ronan!" My dad said with certainty, "He had someone check abroad. Although your passport name did


    appear on the outbound records, there was no trace of you anywhere! He concluded that you must still


    be in Goldenvale Town and that you never left."


    "Ronan again?" I eximed in shock, "Why is he everywhere?"


    "We owed Ronan in this. He¡¯s put in a lot of effort into it. Later, he managed to get Monique¡¯s teacher to


    pry out of her that you were at home, bedridden. We were outraged to hear that."


    My dad¡¯s face turned grim and cold. "Before I could went for him, he showed up at our house, putting


    on a show and even introducing this Gemma! So, I decided to y along. I was too worried about your


    safety, so I used the Oldtown Avenue situation as bait. You... you''re still too naive when ites to


    judging people!"


    "Dad! I failed to protect Medsafe Liyah Inc., and it''s all in his hands now!" My eyes were downcast in


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    shame. For the first time I confessed my fault, I whispered, "Dad, I was wrong! I was too stubborn!"


    My dad¡¯s expression softened, and he nced at me. "There was nothing wrong about him being


    ambitious, but it was a dog¡¯s act to use that ambition to fool and steal from his wife. I won''t let him


    seed! I''m not so old that I would just sit back and let him bully my daughter!"


    For the first time, I heard my dad speak with such a cold, chilling tone. But it gave me a strong sense of


    security, knowing that I had a powerful ally behind me.


    "What are you going to do, Dad?" I looked at him, then pleaded, "Can I take care of this myself? This is


    my battle to fight. Only then can I put my resentment to rest."


    "You can handle the Goldenvale Town part. Don''t worry about Silverdale City! Silverdale City is your


    hometown, your territory! Oldtown Avenue is your empire, and you must manage this street well in the


    future!" My dad said to me solemnly, "I''ll n out this street for you, considering it your starting point to


    start over."


    I felt a lump in my throat. I was an adult now, yet my father still had to n my future for me. I was truly


    ashamed.


    "Dad! Don''t worry too much about me. You have done enough. Oldtown Avenue is your dream. You


    should enjoy your retirement. Stop worrying about me. I''m not that weak!"


    "No, the business opportunities on Oldtown Avenue are immense. Once we settle the current issues, I''ll


    exin everything to you. I''m getting old, and you must fulfill my dream! This project isn''t something


    that can bepleted overnight, but it''s a long-term n! You can work on it for a lifetime and pass it


    down the generations."


    "You''re not just dreaming. You''re nning to create a family heirloom!" Iughed, looking at him.


    "Yes! That Jan is a short-sighted, petty man! He''s not destined for great wealth!" My dad said with a


    look of disdain.


    "What about the call you mentioned yesterday about discussing the VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals issue


    with him?" I looked at my dad, my eyes full of confusion.


    My dad chuckled, narrowed his eyes, put down his coffee cup, and whispered a few words to me. I was


    so shocked that I almost dropped my jaw.


    "Dad... Are you serious?" I stared at my dad in awe,pletely admiring his genius.

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    Chapter 169


    My dad sat there, exuding an air of confidence and stability, telling me what a rock meant.


    "So, go ahead and do what you want to do! Whatever you decide, you have my unconditional support!"


    Dad said, his demeanor demonstrating a total disregard for any potential obstacles.


    "Dad! What are you going to do with Gemma?" I asked, expressing my concern for this matter in my


    voice.


    "Let''s keep her around for now. She can be useful and is the best way to pass information to Jan!"


    Dad''s words instantly enlightened me about his intentions. Indeed, some information would only be


    convincing if delivered through her.


    "But we must be careful. I''m afraid the Dawson family might resort to foul y." I voiced my concern. If


    Jan could drug me through Zora, he wouldn''t spare my parents, either.


    Dad picked up on the additional implication in my words and asked, "Tell me, what''s the story behind


    your sickness?"


    I sighed, picked up my cup of coffee and took a sip to steady my nerves. I knew I couldn''t hide these


    things from my dad, who was as smart as a fox. So, I told him everything, which left him shaking with


    anger.


    He finally spoke, "Dear lord! My daughter has survived a great disaster, and she''s bound to have good


    fortune in the future! ,I won''t let that bastard get away with this! No way!¡±


    "I''m afraid they might target you, considering their method of operation. Since they have nted this


    woman near you, they surely have ill intentions. We must be on our guard," I continued, feeling uneasy


    about Gemma.


    "Don''t worry about that. Getting rid of her would be a piece of cake! But now that she''s here, we can''t


    let her leave without bearing the consequences," Dad replied, his tone sharp.


    "If necessary, let''s use some tactics. It''s better than living in constant fear," I suggested, looking at Dad


    worriedly.


    Dad chuckled. "Ronan suggested we monitor her, too, but I don¡¯t think it¡¯s necessary. You see, that


    bastard doesn''t know my intentions, my strong power, or our financial strength. He won''t make a move


    just yet!"


    "I''ve thought about that, but having a ghost around is always unsettling," I confessed.


    "The moment she tries anything, it''ll be her ticket to jail. Just trust me," Dad reassured me in a decisive


    tone.


    I turned to Dad and said, ¡°Dad, I''m thinking of leaving Probert here with you and Mom. He can go to


    school here. This kid is empathetic, and I''ll be relieved if he stays with you. Lastly, I really don''t have


    the time to care for him now. We can make further ns once everything is over.¡±


    "What about Monique?" Dad asked.


    "Monique¡­" I pondered. "This child is a bit hard to handle, and she goes to a boarding school, so it


    won''t affect me." This was my real thought. It could save me a lot of trouble when Monique was at


    school.


    Dad nodded. "The harder to handle, the less we should let her be her way. I''ve noticed that this child


    carries more of the Dawson family''s genes. We can''t do nothing and let her be. Plus, to prevent the


    Dawson family from taking desperate measures and using her to threaten you, we can''t leave any


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    loose ends. Let her stay with us, too."


    I felt a pang in my heart. Dad was right. Monique indeed had more of the Dawson family''s genes.


    Sometimes, her temper did resemble her Aunt Jessica''s.


    But what Dad thought was absolutely possible. At a critical moment, Jan could definitely use


    Monique to threaten me, especially as Monique was leaning more towards her father due to my illness.


    Seeing that I didn''t respond, Dad continued, "Don''t worry. This ce is safe. Carl is a bit young and


    needs you. Keep him by your side. Helga is good. You can trust her."


    "I need to talk to Monique first. She''s a bit rebellious!" I said, fearing that she might not agree and


    would cause trouble for my parents.


    "Don''t worry! I have ways to change her mind!" Dad said confidently.


    Just then, my phone rang. I took it out and nced at the screen. It was an unmarked number, but I


    remembered it. It was Marissa''s.

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    Chapter 170


    I nced at my dad, a smirk ying on my lips as I picked up the phone. "Hello? Who is this?"


    "Aaliyah, let''s meet up!" Marissa''s weak voice came through the phone.


    "Marissa?" I feigned surprise. "Sorry, but I''m not in Goldenvale Town anymore. I''vee back to my


    parents'' ce!"


    I bet that she had known I was back in Silverdale City.


    "Did you need something?" I pretended I knew nothing and asked innocently.


    Marissa suddenlyughed on the other end, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Isn''t it nice, Aaliyah?


    You must be having a great time with your family."


    "Yeah, I am!" I replied curtly.


    I could hear her patience running out. Maybe she couldn¡¯t go on with the show anymore.I could only


    imagine if she were not battered and bruised, she would not feelfortable at all.


    After all, all of this started because of her. She had kept a toy boy and tested positive for AIDS. There


    was no way that the Dawson family''s two scumbags couldn¡¯t find out. At that moment, Marissa had


    nowhere to escape.


    Why else would she call me at this time?


    "Indeed, it''s great. I haven''t been home in a while. The festive decorations are beautiful. There''s really


    no ce like home!" I continued cheerfully.


    Marissaughed maniacally, her voice sending chills down my spine. "Aaliyah, I¡¯ve never expected


    you''d kick me while I''m down."


    "Why wouldn''t you expect it?" I retorted, my tone challenging. "You really thought I was a saint, didn''t


    you?" I continued softly, "I wasn''t, and I''m sorry I let you think so. I know I¡¯ve been lying quietly in bed


    and kept you waiting for ages. But karma is a bitch, isn¡¯t it? Looks like the joke''s on you this time."


    "How did you know?" Marissa sounded startled by my words. "When did you find out?"


    "You''re just stupid!" I dismissed her question with a smirk.


    At this moment, I knew Marissa was already a lost cause. She was trying to provoke me, and I wasn''t


    going to let her off easy.


    "You think you''ve won?" Marissa hit back, her voice almost hysterical. "Don''t think Jan doesn''t have


    other women!"


    "So what? All I know is that you better figure out who Evan''s real father is!" I kept my tone light, adding


    with augh, "You do know whose bastard child that is, don¡¯t you?"


    "Aaliyah, stop gloating. You''re nothing but their cash cow. They¡¯ll bleed you dry!" Marissa was


    practically roaring.


    "Well, at least I''m worth it. At least, one word from me, and you''re in pain." I taunted her.


    Marissaughed crazily, gasping for breath. "That AzureEnchantress won''t let you off the hook!


    Aaliyah, get over yourself!" With that, she hung up.


    I furrowed my brow, trying to decipher what she meant by ¡°That AzureEnchantress won''t let you off the


    hook!¡±.


    My dad looked at me. "Something wrong, sweetie?"


    I shook off my thoughts, shrugging casually. "Nope!"


    The phone rang again. It was Ronan,ing to pick me up to see Addrion.


    I told him I was at the Wood Manor, and he showed up shortly after, seeming quite familiar with the


    ce. Upon entering, he shot my dad a respectful nod, greeting, "Hey, Mr. Wilburn!"


    It seemed my hunch was right. They knew each other well.


    "Want a cup of coffee before you leave?" My dad, still rocking in his chair, asked the towering figure in


    front of him.


    "No, thanks. I''ll drop byter tonight!" Ronan replied casually, as ifing here was as natural as going


    home.


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "You cane back for dinner! Don''t eat out!" My dad ordered, not asking for his opinion or inviting


    him, but instructing.


    Ronan grinned. "Okay. You¡¯re the boss!" He then turned to me. "Ready to go?"


    I quickly got up, turning to my dad. "Tell Mom I''m going to see a friend, and I''ll be back soon!"


    My dad merely raised his hand in response, picking up the local chronicle he was reading without a


    second nce at us.


    I exchanged a look with Ronan, who shrugged and tilted his head towards the door. We headed out


    together, but I could feel a pair of eyes watching us from behind.

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    Chapter 171


    As we reached his car, he held open the passenger door for me. After I had settled in, he reached over


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    to fasten my seat belt before he circled around to the driver''s side. As he started the car, I couldn''t help


    but sneak a nce at him. I was unsure of how to face this man who was both familiar and a stranger


    to me.


    He didn''t look at me but asked, "Still not used to it?"


    My face flushed in embarrassment, and I quickly looked away. Clearing my throat, I said, "Not... really."


    "It''s normal. It took me a while to get used to it, too. There was a time when I would have nightmares. I


    eventually stopped looking in the mirror," he shared, his tone light yet filled with meaning.


    "When did it happen?" I cautiously asked.


    "Eight years ago!" He nced at me, "A long time ago."


    My gazended on his arm, where faint scars were visible. There was a bracelet on his wrist that didn''t


    seem out of ce.


    "You still have it?" I asked casually.


    "Yes! It''s been with me through thick and thin, just like you said it would!" He smirked at me. "It''s a part


    of me now."


    His words sent my heart into a frenzy. I shifted my gaze outside the window, my hands feeling


    ufortably restless.


    We remained silent for the rest of the drive, and the tension in the car making it hard to breathe.


    Upon reaching the hospital, he drove straight to the back of the building. "This is a temporary istion


    ward," he exined, "It''s safer. Let''s go."


    I hastily opened the car door and jumped out of the car. The fresh air felt so goodpared to the


    tense atmosphere in the car. Not until then did I remember something. Then I said in regret, "Oh no, I


    forgot to get him some flowers!"


    Ronan gently patted my arm. "He has everything he needs. No worries."


    Without another word, he led me through a small side entrance. The corridor was narrow, and he


    walked close to me. His familiar scent brought back memories.


    We were on the fourth floor, where Addrion''s room was at the end. He must have heard using


    because he stepped out of his room as we approached. Seeing me and Ronan together brought a


    childlike smile to his face.


    "What¡¯s holding you up? I''ve been waiting all morning," Addrionined, "I thought I would have to


    wait forever.


    "You were supposed to be getting treatment this morning. What good would we have done watching


    you get an IV?" Ronan retorted, just as argumentative as ever.


    "You have the nerve to say that. I just wanted to see you two earlier. Oh, you also know I''m the patient


    here? How could you get me to worry about you guys," Addrion grumbled, "Where were you two all


    morning, leaving me here all alone?"


    I chuckled. "Honestly, he just picked me up."


    "Really?" Addrion looked skeptical.


    Ronan scoffed, "We spent the whole afternoon together yesterday, but it was none of your business. If


    you''re so curious to find out about us, why don''t you get better first? With your current health condition,


    you wouldn''t even be able to keep an eye on us."


    Addrion''s face darkened, and he turned to me. "How could you be so heartless? You¡¯ve stuck with you


    as soon as he showed up."


    What¡¯s it to you? Bite me!" Ronan had already entered the room.


    "I didn''t. He found me!" I defended myself.


    "Oh, it made me feel better," he grumbled, pulling me into the room.


    The room was nothing like a typical hospital room. It looked more like a five-star hotel suite. If it weren''t


    for the medical equipment, I would have been in a trance.


    Ronan had made himselffortable on the couch, waving me over. "Come sit."


    I smiled and took a seat opposite him, calling out to Addrion, "Addrion,e sit with us!"


    Addrion came over with a cheeky grin, carrying a te of fruit. He took a seat next to me.


    Addrion looked a bit better than when I saw himst time. He was clean and fresh, although he still


    hunched over. But there was a spark in his eyes.


    Seeing his improvement, I anxiously asked, "What did the doctor say?"

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    Addrion waved a hand nonchntly. "I¡¯m already happy we''re all still alive and back together. As for the


    rest, just leave it to God!"


    Ronan chuckled. "Don''t talk nonsense. If we can''t restore you to your former self, why go through all


    this trouble? Might as well have left you in Maine and let you pray to God!"


    Addrion instantly wore a disgruntled expression, firing back at him. "Whoa, whoa, whoa... Ronan, stop!


    You are being so mean. I might not have contributed much, but do I not deserve some credit? You''re


    being selfish, aren''t you?"


    "Or what?" Ronan scoffed at him, "Leave it to God? I am your God!"


    I quickly intervened to smooth things over, looking at Addrion with hopeful eyes, "So, you''re saying


    there''s a chance for a full recovery?"


    "No problem at all. Even though he''s short of a kidney, I guarantee he''ll be fit as a fiddle." Ronan


    interrupted, promising solemnly, "I¡¯ve got him the best doctors and best medicines, so you don''t have to


    worry about him."


    I looked at the two men before me. Their presence was like a gift regained. I felt a sudden welling up of


    emotions as they were no longer the men they used to be. Unexpectedly, I felt a lump in my throat. My


    eyes were misty, and my smile could not be more awkward.


    They both noticed my emotional shift, and their eyes, filled with confusion, were all on me.


    Feeling cornered by their gazes, I smiled through my tears. "Who would have thought that we would all


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    be so different when we met again? Life sure has a funny way of ying tricks!"


    Addrion choked up. "Don''t cry. Consider this a test from God. It¡¯s more than enough that we can see


    each other again."


    I sniffed, looking at them both. "Have you two been in contact all along?"


    Raising his hand, Addrion denied, "I swear, Aaliyah, just like you, he left without a trace. I didn''t have


    his contact. But before he left, he left me a note to take care of you. That''s why I insisted on starting a


    business with you. I thoughtpanionship was the best form of care."


    "You''ve failed in your duty. Look at the terrible situation she''s in now!" Ronan''s tone was full of reproof


    towards Addrion.


    Addrion lowered his head, pounding his thigh in frustration. "s! I indeed failed."


    "Nobody''s to me except for the sly dogs from the Dawson family!" I muttered, "It''s my fault to have


    chosen such a despicable guy."


    Upon hearing my words, Ronan and Addrion both fell silent. Addrion opened his mouth several times,


    but words failed him. Ronan broke the silence. "Let bygones be bygones. We should move on. No one


    can predict the future. Even if it''s a mistake, it''s God''s will."


    "Oh? You''re talking about God now? When you left, you should have given her a peace of mind. But


    you just vanished without a trace. Let me tell you something. Seeing her searching for you everywhere,


    I..."


    "Stop talking about those past things!" I cut off Addrion''s words.


    Addrion swallowed his words abruptly, let out a sigh and shook his head. We all fell into an awkward


    silence, each lost in our own thoughts.


    After a while, I broke the silence and changed the topic. "I always feel Jan has a mastermind behind


    him, and this mastermind is not with Jerome¡¯s. Earlier, Marissa called me and said, ''That


    AzureEnchantress won''t let you off the hook!'' I saw a user named AzureEnchantress on another phone


    of Jan''s. Could it be the same person?"


    Ronan nodded. "Logan and his team are already investigating every person on the phone. Don''t worry!


    Not one will get away. Now it seems that the people on that phone you provided indeed have issues,


    but strangely, that AzureEnchantress hasn''t shown up or contacted Jan recently."


    "That''s odd. With whatever has happened recently, how could they not be in contact?" I asked,


    puzzled, "Could there be other ways? Or...did they notice something?"

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    Chapter 173


    Ronan shook his head. "The odds aren''t great, but for now, all we can do is sit back and watch. It''s the


    perfect time to focus on fulfilling your dreams."


    "I do have a n of my own. I''ve set a trap for Jan through our overseas partnership."


    I exined the n that Geneva and I had devised, as well as the proof of funds scheme she had


    developed.


    After reviewing it, Ronan nodded slightly. "Let''s go with it for now. If it doesn''t work, we''ll have Caleb


    improvise to y it by ear."


    "You know Caleb, too?" I asked, feeling a bit stupid. If Logan was his guy, then Caleb must be too. I


    wondered what other talents Ronan had up his sleeve.


    Addrion pondered for a moment before raising an objection. "I believe Marissa ys a crucial role in


    Jan''s scheme."


    "That''s indisputable. The major shakeup at Medsafe Liyah Inc. was her doing," I asserted.


    Addrion disagreed, "No, it''s not just that. I''ve always suspected that Jan''s betrayal was because of


    Marissa."


    "What made you think so?"


    Addrion looked at me. "I am sure she has had an affair with Jerome. I saw it with my own eyes."


    "You saw it?" I was surprised. It was the first confirmation of my suspicions.


    "I did. It was when they were working to knock Farris down." Addrion squinted, recalling the incident,


    and continued, "One night, I returnedte from the Harbor. I intended to go to the office and record


    some transactions. as it was the end of the month, and the transactions had to be reported in that


    month''s ounts.


    But when I entered the office, I noticed the light in Marissa''s office was still on. I was about to say hi


    and update her on the day''s deliveries, but as I approached, I heard some, you know, that kind of


    sound. I quickly retreated and hid in a nearby cubicle.


    Half an hourter, Marissa left her office with a man. They were canoodling as they walked. I thought it


    was Jan, but upon a second look, I realized it was Jerome. At first, I wasn¡¯t sure about my guess.


    But I dug out more clues and confirmed that Marissa was sleeping with both of them."


    Hearing those words, I nced at Ronan involuntarily, but he didn''t return my gaze.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Addrion spoke with disgust as he ryed the incident, "So, I think Marissa must know something.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t be so brazen."


    "Whatever she knows doesn''t matter. What''s important is that Jerome and Jan have had fallen out."


    Ronan scoffed, "After you left the press conference, they had a major argument and med one


    another. Jan threatened Jerome, saying he would cut him off!"


    "Cut him off?" I questioned. "It looked like Jan had really be the mastermind behind Jerome."


    "In response, Jerome threatened to kick Jan out of Medsafe Liyah Inc.!" Ronan sneered, "Now,


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. has be their battleground, which shows the Dawson family has united during


    thepany''s shakeup."


    "This family¡­" I shook my head, at a loss for words.


    "So, it''s clear that Medsafe Liyah Inc. is their safety, which means thepany matters the most to


    them!" Ronan analyzed, "I believe Jerome uses Medsafe Liyah Inc. as a bargaining chip within that


    organization."


    "Huh! Medsafe Liyah Inc. is indeed a juicy steak. Everyone has their eyes on it, wanting to use it as a


    stepping stone to climb higher. But they should ask us, the founders, first!" Addrion snorted, "They''re


    already starting to fight over the spoils!"


    "That''s good for us. It''s the only way I can get back what I want."


    Addrion spoke anxiously, "We need to be well prepared in case they act out of desperation!"

 Chapter 174

    Chapter 174


    Addrion nced at me with caution in his eyes. "So, your n absolutely must be feasible. There can''t


    be a single hitch!"


    "Everything''s set! We just need to wait till those foreigners validate thepany''s credentials


    tomorrow, and we''ll know the result," I said confidently. "All these requirements are typical of those


    international consortiums that want to cooperate with us. It''s just a bit more demanding this time. Even


    if it hurts Jan''s pocket, he''ll never suspect a thing."


    Addrion chuckled at me. "There''s the irondy Aaliyah that I know."


    "Well, how should I put it? After nearly losing my life to schemes, I''ve learned that people are


    unpredictable!" I sighed.


    "Let''s talk about something else," Ronan steered the conversation away from the heavy topic.


    "Like what? How you dared to leave without a word?" Addrion retorted scornfully. "Or, what else is


    there to talk about? Everything''s stuck in the past, twelve years ago."


    I remained silent.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    The prolonged silence made Ronan ufortable. He cleared his throat to try to say something but


    found himself at a loss for words.


    "One word from you has taken away all my rights, Ronan. You''re the person I hate the most," Addrion


    continued, bitterness clear in his voice. "If it weren''t for that note you left, she wouldn''t have ended up


    in Jan''s hands, and we wouldn''t be in this mess."


    I looked at Addrion, confused. "What do you mean?"


    "Don''t listen to his bullshit. He''s just bitter because he isn¡¯t charming!" Ronan quickly cut in.


    "Excuse me? Not charming? How dare you say so? It¡¯s just I respected the bro code... Never mind."


    Addrion suddenly looked defeated.


    I nced at them, finally realizing they were talking about me. It seemed there was more to the note


    Ronan left all those years ago.


    I decided it was best not to ask.


    Addrion suddenly looked up at me, asking, "What will you do after you deal with Jan?"


    I blinked, taken aback. Honestly, I hadn''t thought about it. However, I clearly saw Ronan clench his


    fists.


    "What else is there to do? I''ll live a good life with my kids," I said casually.


    Ronan''s clenched fists rxed, but he didn''t look up.


    Iughed, a hint of self-mockery in my voice. For some reason, hearing Ronan¡¯s question made me


    want to pay more attention to him.


    I quickly changed the subject. "Have you contacted your wife since you returned?"


    Addrion got married after I had my son, Probert. His wife, Tatyanna, was a gentle and quiet woman.


    They had a beautiful daughter a yearter, who was older than my son, Carl.


    Before I fell ill, we used to keep in touch asionally. But when I was desperately searching for


    Addrion, I couldn''t reach her. She must have changed her number.


    Addrion shook his head with his face filled with sorrow. "I haven''t told them yet. In their minds, I must


    have died a long time ago. It''s better if they don''t know."


    "How long are you going to keep them in the dark?" I asked, confused.


    "I can''t show myself yet. A person mysteriously disappearing from the camp can''t be easily brushed off,


    especially when that person is me. They have detailed files on everyone who enters, like a death camp.


    Once you''re in, there''s no getting out alive. I''m just an exception."


    Addrion''s words sounded rmist, and I looked at him incredulously.


    He insisted. "Don''t take it lightly. I bet Jerome has received orders. After all, he was the one who sent


    me there in the first ce!"


    Ronan nodded in agreement, confirming what Addrion said was true. "We suspect they have backers


    domestically. One reason they didn''t push Addrion too hard for his family details was that they didn''t


    expect him to survive. There''s another reason."

 Chapter 175

    Chapter 175


    "What else could it be?" I puzzledly asked Ronan.


    "Well, after Addrion was sent to Northern Myanmar, the record back home showed that Addrion was


    deceased! They couldn''t ckmail his family anymore!" Ronan exined with a chilling tone, "In some


    ways, though, it helped his family!"


    "So you''re saying there''s someone higher up than Jerome?" I probed.


    "Yes, Jerome is just a small fry. At most, he''s a henchman, maybe with a title. That''s why he could


    whisk Addrion away during the transfer." Ronan rified.


    "And the police didn''t notice anything? What were they doing?" I asked, unable toprehend.


    "You hit the nail on the head. That''s exactly why we were able to find Addrion." Ronan agreed with my


    point.


    I looked at Ronan with curiosity, eager for him to continue the story.


    "We went through hell and high water to find where Addrion had gone. It turned out that during that


    period, he had been convicted and sentenced to three years. But, weirdly enough, he disappeared


    during his transfer from the detention house to his cell. There was no sign of him in the prison."


    Ronan''s words were clear as if he was narrating a story.


    Addrion had a wry smile on his face. "I didn''t know anything. I swear I didn''t know anything!"


    He kept repeating this phrase.


    "Following that, we found the key point in the transfer operation. After some investigation, we found the


    transfer records. There had been an ident during the transfer. The vehicle fell off a cliff, and


    everyone on board died. Among the charred bodies in the car, one of them was identified as Addrion''s


    through DNA testing."


    I was stunned by his revtions.


    Ronan continued, "But it''s precisely because of this record that we could affirm that Addrion was still


    alive. That''s how we slowly found our way to Northern Myanmar and found clues about Addrion."


    "How did you think of Northern Myanmar?" I asked, puzzled.


    "It''s a ce where anything bizarre can happen. We were just checking out possibilities. But we


    stumbled upon some footage of Addrion by chance. It was like he had a guardian angel!" Ronan made


    a joke.


    "And what happened next? How did you get him out?" My curiosity was piqued.


    Ronan gave a small smile, a rare warm expression on his face. "It was impossible to go straight in and


    get him out of there. Plus, the reason Addrion was sent to the area was a bit tricky. We were afraid to


    cause a stir, so we had to outsmart them."


    "Outsmart them?" I was even more curious.


    "We bribed a cook at a diner in the area to create a false bottom in a trash can. We hid him in there,


    took him to the border, and then we were able to bring him back home!"


    Upon hearing this, Addrion''s eyes reddened, and he choked up. "If you had been a monthter, I might


    have been a dead body!"


    I reached out to touch Addrion''s arm, trying tofort him.


    Ronan nodded and continued, "Actually, we had someone arranged to handle the aftermath in the


    area, just in case. The news that came back said that they also investigated the incident!


    We arranged for a body to be sent in, so disfigured that it was impossible to identify. But they were


    vignt. They checked the details, and when they couldn''t find anything, they let it go."


    Addrion didn''t seem relieved and shook his head. "I don¡¯t think they let it go so easily!"


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    "All these signs indicate that their people are also in the government''s team!" Ronan asserted.


    I was shocked. "No wonder Addrion has disappeared so mysteriously. I couldn''t find anyone who had


    any news about him!"


    "That''s why we can''t let him show up!" Ronan said, "Until we find out who''s behind everything in


    Northern Myanmar, we can''t make any rash moves. These guys are desperate! If they find out Addrion


    has escaped, they''ll smell danger. It won''t be good for our future work!"


    The chill in his words sent shivers down my spine. I murmured, "I''ll go see his wife when I get back!"


    Addrion looked lost. "In the past year, I''ll be dead and buried in their hearts!"


    I looked at Addrion to reassure him, "Don''t be so pessimistic. Your wife won''t change!"

 Chapter 176

    Chapter 176


    I knew about Addrion''s wife, a virtuous and resilient woman. She wouldn''t falter just because Addrion


    had gone silent for a while.


    Their bond was strong, and they treated each other with deep respect. Addrion was incredibly caring,


    and Tatyanna was remarkably attentive. Besides, Tatyanna''s family lived out of town, so she counted a


    lot on Addrion. I didn''t believe that Tatyanna would change.


    Just then, my phone rang. I quickly picked it up and saw Catherine''s name on the screen.


    I slid the screen to answer, and Catherine''s voice came through, urgent and slightly gleeful. "Allie, you


    won''t believe what''s happened."


    Intrigued, I asked, "What''s going on?"


    "Marissa''s kid is missing!" Catherine''s voice carried a hint of malicious glee.


    "What?" I eximed, turning to look at Ronan, who looked back at me in surprise. "When did it


    happen?"


    "Today! The news hit the inte around noon that Marissa''s kid was missing. It''s a total mess! Marissa


    is freaking out and has called the cops. The whole town is searching for the kid." Catherine spoke so


    fast, sounding like she was on a high. "The inte was buzzing about the Dawson family feud, and


    now Marissa''s kid has gone missing, so everyone''s gossiping."


    My mind was spinning. How could Marissa¡¯s child just go missing? Who could do such a thing at this


    time? What was their aim?


    "Could the kid have wandered off while ying somewhere?" I mused aloud. "Marissa called me a


    couple of hours ago and didn''t mention anything about her child."


    I thought back to Marissa''s call. If she''d known her child was missing, she wouldn''t have been so calm.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    "It doesn''t look like it," Catherine interrupted my thoughts. "Hold on. I''ll send you a surveince video."


    I clicked on the link as soon as it came in.


    The video showed Marissa''s front door from a perspective I recognized. Logan had set up surveince


    cameras to keep an eye on her.


    Suddenly, the door flew open, and Marissa came rushing out, phone in hand, frantically pressing the


    elevator button.


    There came her anxious voice. "You must exin to me. What the hell do you mean by my child is


    missing? I entrusted you to take care of him. How could he just vanish?"


    Next, Marissa stormed into the elevator. Her face looked distorted with fear and anger. When I saw


    that, I realized someone must have hit her.


    The elevator doors closed, and the camera shifted to a view of the building''s entrance. It was clear as


    Marissa rushed out of the elevator and dashed outside.


    But the entrance was swarming with reporters. She was surrounded, yelling at them like a madwoman


    to let her through. But they wouldn''t budge, instead crowding around her even more.


    Marissa fought her way through them like a wild animal, finally managing to hail a cab and get in. The


    reporters scattered to follow the cab.


    The video ended there, and Catherine called back. "See that? That''s just one clip! The inte is


    flooded with news about this. Apparently, Marissa has sent her kid to a summer camp, but he just


    disappeared. No one saw him leave, and there was no note.It''s all very strange, don''t you think?"


    "How could he just disappear?" I echoed her question.


    "Exactly. The police are currently searching the building after the report, but chances of finding him


    there are slim. It''s more likely he was taken outside!" Catherine answered. Then, she asked, "When are


    youing back?"


    "I''m not sure when I''ll be returning!" I replied.


    But Ronan gave me a meaningful look and said, "I think you''ll need to head back to Goldenvale Town


    soon."

 Chapter 177

    Chapter 177


    I questioned with a skeptical gaze, "Why?"


    "If the child is indeed missing, the police would have to question you as well. It''s standard procedure!"


    Ronan said to me solemnly, "After all, you''re involved in this case, and from your position and


    perspective, you are a suspect."


    Addrion looked at me with an exasperated expression. "This is just ridiculous! Can''t catch a break! Now


    you are a suspect!"


    Feeling deted, I turned to Catherine, who was still waiting on the line. "I guess I will get back soon. If


    there''s any important news, let me know immediately."


    "Don''t worry! Who are you with?" she asked in an annoyingly yful tone.


    "Why are you so nosy? Goodbye!" I hung up the phone, annoyed.


    My emotions were a whirlwind. Marissa''s child went missing at this time? It couldn''t just be a


    coincidence. The next day was the day for foreign investors'' inspection.


    Why did I feel something wrong?


    "You don''t need to worry. Even if there is an investigation, it''s just routine police work." Ronan tried to


    care of it."


    I shook my head, my mind still spinning. "Why do I feel like there''s more to this?"


    "Do you mean Jan has something to do with this?" Addrion asked, looking at me.


    I nced at him. "It''s quite possible. Otherwise, why would the child go missing at this crucial time?"


    "All men, good or bad, rarely illtreat their own children...." Addrion started.


    "Don''t forget that I''m still his wife. For his own benefits, he could do anything." I interrupted him before


    he could finish. "Besides, he might not mean any harm to the child, just trying to divert public attention."


    "Stupid!" Addrion said, shaking his head. If Jan really had a mastermind behind him, this idea could


    not be worse.


    "On the contrary, this might just catch everyone off guard." Ronan said, standing up first. "Let''s go


    home."


    "Right." I agreed, standing up as well. "We need to get home quickly. There''s still a lot I haven''t told my


    parents. Addrion, you need to focus on your treatment. Once we regain control of Medsafe Liyah Inc.,


    you''ll give it your all. Medsafe Liyah Inc. can survive without me, but not without you, Addrion."


    It was my sincere thought. For a moment, I seriously considered handing over thepany to Addrion


    once we regained control, because I still had Oldtown Avenue. That was my father''s lifelong dream. I


    had already let my parents down for ten years, and I couldn''t let them wait any longer.


    Maybe, just like Addrion had asked me earlier, what was my n after regaining control of Medsafe


    Liyah Inc.? I should return to Silverdale City to be with my parents.


    Addrionughed like a child at my words. "Oh,e off it! Without you, we can''t do anything. But


    without Ronan, we can manage just fine."


    I snorted, giving him a sidelong nce, "Here we go again!"


    Ronan scoffed at him, draping an arm around my shoulder. "Let''s go."


    "Hey!... Ronan, that''s crossing the line! What do you think you''re doing with that hand?" Addrion


    shouted, hunching over and taking a step forward. "Did you hear me? Take your hands off her!"


    Ronan ignored him and walked off, dragging me along. I waved at Addrion as we left. "Take care!"


    Ronan forced me to face forward, saying, "Don''t keep lingering with a married man."


    I shot him an angry look, retorting, "I''m a married woman, remember?"


    Although I said this, I couldn''t help feeling a sweet sensation. From these words, I understood Ronan


    was not married.


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    I sighed at my shamelessness. I was a mother of three, but I was pining for this eligible bachelor.


    Enough was enough!


    When we got in the car, he reassured me, "You don''t need to feel any pressure. If the police really


    "I know. Don''t worry. I haven''t done anything wrong, so what do I have to fear?" Iughed. "I can¡¯t wait


    to get back and watch this drama unfold to see who ends up with the child."


    Everyone had their own hidden agendas. I just wanted to reim what was mine. As for what they did


    or how they did it, I didn¡¯t care. I was happy to benefit from it. For me, this was going to be quite a


    show!

 Chapter 178

    Chapter 178


    As Ronan was driving, he gave me a puzzling look, making me uneasy. "Do you think I''m a vicious


    woman?"


    "No way!" He shook his head immediately, exining, "It''s just that I feel you''ve changed, too. You''ve


    be, um, more mature. You''re calm andposed. Good for you!"


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Well, I have to grow up. I''m a mother of three. But I''ve done lousy job. I¡¯ve let them get me into such a


    mess and almost got killed, but I waspletely oblivious. What else could possibly make me lose my


    cool?" I said lightly, but a torrent of emotions was churning inside me.


    "Right! There''s nothing wrong with being a bit selfish in certain situations. You need to protect yourself


    in order to protect your family! You''re doing great. You''re a strong mother!"


    "But it''s hard on the kid!" I murmured, "I hope they''ll treat him well!"


    "Yeah! It''s not the kid''s fault, and why should he bear such a punishment?" Ronan agreed, adding,


    "That''s why it''s important to do what is right!"


    I didn''t expect him to say such a clich¨¦d phrase, and I couldn''t help butugh.


    He quickly turned to me. "Why are youughing? Was I wrong?"


    "No, you''re right! But there''s another saying you should know, ''The road to righteousness is full of


    hardships.''" I teased,ughing genuinely.


    He stared at me for a long time, making me feel awkward. Instinctively I reached out and adjusted his


    face. "Focus! You''re driving. You need to ensure my safety!"


    Hearing this, he chuckled contentedly. "Okay, I will!"


    "What do you mean ''you will''?" I repeated awkwardly, "Just focus on your driving. You can''t be


    distracted!"


    "I''ve always been focused. I will ensure your safety. I couldn''t protect you in the past, but I won''t let that


    happen again. I''ll make sure that you''re safe!" He borated, adding solemnly, "Trust me. I can


    definitely do it this time! I''ve spent twelve years honing my skills, but I¡¯ve missed out on so much!"


    "You have your own mission!" My voice faltered a bit.


    He smiled faintly, and I thought I detected a hint of helplessness. Maybe it was just my imagination.


    To me, Ronan has always been a mystery. I dare not show any disrespect or irreverence towards him,


    especially when I impulsively decided to marry a despicable jerk who could harm his own wife. Wasn¡¯t


    that something terrifying?


    Sure enough, he didn''t disprove my statement.


    After a while, he suddenly turned to me and asked, "Are you still mad at me?"


    I knew what he meant by his question. Instead of rushing to answer, I pondered for a while and then


    said solemnly, "No! After much consideration, I realized it was all my fault. I decided to marry him with


    such determination, without looking back. I thought I was the most clear-headed person, but I didn''t


    realize I would have to pay such a huge price for this decision!"


    "No, your determination was because of me. I didn''t leave you any hope!" Ronan said decisively,


    without any intention of shirking responsibility. I understood it was his sense of responsibility.


    "So..." He looked at me. "I will bear the future with you at any cost!"


    Hearing his words, I felt a lump in my throat. I didn''t dare to look at him, thinking I didn¡¯t deserve him.


    But I didn''t voice my thoughts. At that moment, I was incredibly selfish!


    The silence in the car was suffocating. He didn''t say anything more. Sometimes, we just needed one


    word, and one more word would be superfluous.


    Just like now, we both understood each other''s thoughts. Ronan¡¯s thoughts were clear to me, and he


    surely understood mine. But miracles require not only thoughts and expressions but also courage.


    We both had courage. But at present, my mind was not here but to end my mistake with Jan


    properly.

 Chapter 179

    Chapter 179


    We retraced our steps back to Wood Manor, where Kenney Damon was engaged in an animated


    conversation with my Dad. As we entered, he looked up in surprise. "Back already?"


    "Something unexpected hase up, so we decided to head back early!" I greeted Kenney, who,


    seeing our return, rose to bid us farewell. My dad didn''t protest, allowing him to leave as he pleased.


    As I escorted Kenney to his car, he waived me back and advised me before leaving, "Stick close to


    Catherine, and keep encouraging her. It¡¯s time for her to get a reliable man, and as long as the guy


    genuinely cares for her, we don''t care about his family background. The Damon family can afford to


    marry off a daughter! She shouldn''t feel any burden!¡±


    I chuckled and replied, ¡°Sure. I''ll push her!¡±


    But in my heart, I couldn''t help but grumble. ¡°Poor Catherine, you¡¯re causing your old man such


    heartache!¡±


    If she kept ignoring her father''s heartfelt advice, she would be downright disrespectful!


    ¡°Thanks for taking care of this for me. She gets annoyed whenever we bring it up. If we push too hard,


    she might run off!¡± Kenney sighed, shaking his head in frustration. ¡°It''s so difficult to see her! We''ve got


    all the boys at home, but our only girl has flown off to who knows where!¡±


    ¡°Leave it to me!¡± I promised, taking the responsibility off his shoulders, ¡°Mission epted!¡±


    It perked Kenney up. With a grateful gesture, he turned and left.


    Back to the parlor, I saw my dad was discussing something with Ronan. Both wearing serious


    expressions, Ronan nodded frequently.


    ¡°Weren''t we supposed to have dinner here? How are we going to do that?¡± I asked, spreading my


    hands, ¡°Or should we head back to our old ce?¡±


    ¡°Back to the old ce!¡± my dad dered decisively.


    I nced at Ronan, who didn''t offer any objection. It seemed like they were in sync, and I wondered


    how long they had been confiding in each other.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Did you tell Mom about it? Or should I go ahead and let her know?¡± I asked, looking at my dad.


    ¡°I''ve already informed her! Your mom and I understand each other with just a look!¡±


    I was surprised at how smoothly my dad responded. He always had a n, and it seemed this was no


    different.


    ¡°In that case, you should head home first. Ronan and I have something else to discuss!¡± My dad turned


    to me and reminded, ¡°Allie, remember, Ronan''s position is different, and something is beyond his


    control!¡±


    Standing there, I felt there was a deeper meaning in my father''s words. Ronan, on the other hand, was


    staring at his coffee cup, lost in thought.


    My dad continued, ¡°He has another name you might not know. He''s also known as Bet


    Richardson.¡±


    Bet Richardson!


    ¡°That''s his identity known to the public, the leader of thergest domestic Richardson Group. Mark my


    words. His real name, Ronan, is a secret you must keep. Very few people know this, and even some of


    his colleagues are unaware. So, keeping this secret is crucial to his safety!¡± My dad''s tone was


    incredibly serious as he gave me this instruction. ¡°Sweetie, you must never spill the beans!¡±


    ¡°I understand. I''ll keep it safe!¡± I promised solemnly.


    ¡°Also, he''s currently the hidden boss of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Since you might be heading back to


    Goldenvale Town, we''ll put on a little show for Jan today, which might as well help him make up his


    mind!¡± My dad''s words surprised me.


    ¡°How do you n on doing that?¡± I asked eagerly.


    I hadn''t expected this to be part of my dad''s n.


    Seeing my confusion, my dad borated on his strategy.


    Once I heard it, I was brimming with confidence. ¡°Great idea! This won''t mess with my ns, and it will


    put some pressure on him. It''s essentially like giving him a safety - a reassurance he so


    desperately needs!!¡±


    My dad grinned slyly, yet his tone was dismissive. ¡°It''s just a way to get him out of our lives faster. We


    have a lot to do and no time to keep ying games with him! Trash belongs in the trash bin!¡±


    Ronan nodded in agreement. ¡°It''s the perfect bait for his greedy nature. It''s exactly what he''s missing!¡±


    Knowing Jan as I do, this would indeed be appealing to him.


    Without further ado, I turned to my father and Ronan. ¡°I''ll head home and wait for you guys!¡±

 Chapter 180

    Chapter 180


    By the time I arrived home, Carl was already awake, amusing himself with his granny in the living room.


    Meanwhile, Gemma and Helga were engrossed in their chores, chattering away andughing as they


    worked.


    I quickly slipped into my role and asked, ¡°Are we expecting guests for dinner?¡±


    While amusing Carl, Mom said casually, ¡°Your dad might bring a friend home. He texted me this


    afternoon, asking me to prepare some homely dishes. Specifically, something with a bit of a ir. So, I


    informed Gemma and Helga.¡±


    I washed my hands and went over to y with Carl, who had been remarkably obedient these past few


    days, no longer demanding his mom. It seemed the saying ''whoever feeds a child, owns it'' holds true!


    ¡°Did you wake up without a fuss?¡± I asked mom, watching Carl.


    I knew this little rascal asionally woke up cranky.


    But Carl shook his head, waving his chubby hands about and grinned at me. ¡°No! I, good boy¡­¡±


    His adorable expression had us all in stitches.


    We were all bowled over by his charm,ughing so hard we were practically falling over.


    He squinted his eyes at us, giggling along and wiggling his little bottom, which was just too cute for


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    words.


    But his small eyes made me sigh. ¡°Can you believe it? Everyone in our family has big, double-lidded


    eyes, but this one ends up with small, monolid eyes that don¡¯t resemble anyone''s!¡±


    Mom looked at him,ughing, and said, ¡°Small eyes are great. They focus attention. People with


    monolids have a certain spirit about them!¡±


    I pouted at Mom¡¯s contented expression. ¡°Mom, you¡¯re too easygoing! You¡¯re ying favorites! In your


    eyes, he¡¯s perfect!¡±


    I looked at Carl, pinching his chubby cheek, and teased, ¡°You¡¯re just special, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Listen to yourself. Since when has having monolids been considered a w? Every child born is a


    champion. Think about it. Out of millions of cells, the fastest one gets the chance toe to this world.


    How exceptional is that!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a bit of a stretch. Don¡¯t you think so? That¡¯s way over my head!¡± Iughed at Mom¡¯s over-the-


    top reasoning.


    Mom quickly added, ¡°Besides, there have been plenty of cases where kids grow up and suddenly


    develop double lids!¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± I asked.


    Mom leisurely replied, ¡°Of course! And our Carl is already handsome, isn¡¯t he? Who dares to say he


    doesn¡¯t have the makings of a heartthrob?¡±


    Her rapid-fire questions drew Gemma¡¯s witty response. ¡°Oh my! Ma''am, you¡¯re absolutely right! Carl is


    indeed a young heartthrob in the making, guaranteed!¡±


    Carl was still squealing withughter, creating a hriously heartwarming scene.


    It felt wonderful to be with the family. What if¡­ Oh! Why was I thinking about ¡®what ifs¡¯ again?


    It seemed I really needed to take my dad¡¯s advice and cut the Gordian knot, ending all this torment.


    Then, we could start over and live happily every day. How great would that be!


    I quickly suppressed those thoughts.


    No matter who ended up in my life, I needed to keep moving forward, living happily, regardless of


    anyone!


    I forced myself not to indulge in unrealistic hopes. It was the best way to avoid disappointment!


    Mom and I chatted idly. The atmosphere was incredibly harmonious, reflecting the peaceful passage of


    time.


    Soon, voices echoed from the hallway, and Dad walked in with Ronan.


    Mom immediately stood up to greet them, ¡°Oh dear! It¡¯s Mr. Richardson! Galen, you should have been


    more specific, you only mentioned a friending over for dinner. I didn¡¯t expect Mr. Richardson, such


    a distinguished guest!¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Wilburn, I hope I¡¯m not intruding!¡± Ronan¡¯s gentle voice echoed through the room, and then he


    handed over a gift, leaving me absolutely bbergasted.


    My goodness! They were all the best actors!


    When did Ronan prepare this gift? I was utterly stunned!


    Mom¡¯s acting skills were top-notch. Seeing me rooted to the spot, she waved me over and warmly said


    to Ronan, ¡°This is my daughter, Aaliyah Wilburn. She lives in Goldenvale Town and is here for a


    vacation with the kids. Sweetie, let me introduce you to Mr. Bet Richardson, the young and


    sessful head of Richardson Group!¡±


    I was amazed. Mom knew a lot about him. No wonder she seemed sofortable around him. Clearly,


    they were familiar with each other!


    At that moment, I wondered how much more there was that I didn¡¯t know.

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    Chapter 181


    Since they were all good actors, I couldn¡¯t be the one to drop the ball. I quickly got into character,


    nodding to Ronan. "Mr. Richardson, wee! So d you could join us!"


    Holding Carl, I quickly made a way for him. "Mr. Richardson, please have a seat!"


    As they sat, Gemma appeared,ying a te full of fruit on the table. She nced at Ronan secretly,


    then returned to the kitchen.


    Ronan sat beside my dad, even entertaining Carl, who was in my arms!


    When it was time for dinner, the Damon family came by to let us know that the kids were having too


    much fun to part. Monique and Probert decided to stay and have dinner with them.


    I breathed a sigh of relief. After all, Monique and Probert had already unexpectedly met Ronan the day


    before, and I was afraid they might say something wrong. This way, with Monique staying with the


    Damon family, I felt assured and secure. And I didn''t have to worry about time, either. Those two


    probably wouldn''t return until it was time for bed.


    Throughout dinner, my dad was talking business with Bet. They were chatting leisurely, and they


    frequently mentioned VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, although not very explicitly.


    From Bet''s words, one could discern some hints. It seemed that Bet had developed a new


    anti-cancer product whose clinical performance was remarkable and had attracted considerable


    attention in the industry. But he had been dying itsunch through VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. From


    their conversation, it was clear that my dad was trying to find out the real situation.


    What seemed like a dry chat was actually quite valuable to someone in the industry. The information


    contained within was quite astonishing.


    As I was feeding Carl, I subtly watched Gemma.


    Sure enough, I noticed she had put her phone not far from the dining table, on the countertop, covered


    with a te. It looked like she had indeed taken action!


    My dad and Ronan were fully in character, acting like pure businessmen. The meaning of this family


    meal was certainly not ordinary.


    By the end, it was clear from their conversation that the big boss, Bet, had his own ns. He


    seemed to think VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals was like a little pony pulling arge cart, struggling to move


    forward. Some of the old shareholders were not very helpful. That was why he had not yetunched


    the new product.


    Anyone could hear that he was thinking of starting his own venture.


    But just when the conversation was getting crucial, my dad changed the subject. I was puzzled at first,


    but then I realized, my god, my dad was a genius! This was a true crafty businessman.


    He whetted Jan''s appetite before abruptly ending the conversation, leaving Jan wanting to hear


    more. Since he had revealed the key point, he quickly ended the discussion, giving himself some


    breathing room.


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    I was astounded by my dad''s move. Even in real business negotiations, he would no doubt have the


    upper hand. He was indeed a master of cunning.


    What kind of person was Bet? Of course, he could see through my dad''s intentions, so he didn''t


    press the issue. They both stopped when they had said enough.


    However, he made ast-minuteeback, suddenly bringing up the issue of Oldtown Avenue.


    My dad didn''t hide anything and shared some information. Bet seemed very interested, and they


    continued discussing this topicte into the night before Bet finally got up to leave.


    I had to say it was astounding! Good lord! The y was magnificent!


    The acting was so convincing that no matter how many investigators they¡¯d got, they couldn''t find a


    single w.


    This game was deep. I was thoroughly impressed. I admit from the bottom of my heart that I could


    never reach such depth. If I hadn''t known the tricks beforehand, I would have fallen into the trap


    without hesitation.


    After my dad saw Bet off, my mom asked out of pretend concern, "Galen, are you interested in


    Bet''s new product?"


    "Not just me, the entire industry is watching it!" He replied enigmatically to my mom''s question, then sat


    down on the couch, feigning fatigue.


    Gemma immediately came over with coffee.


    My mom had a knowing look on her face. "I knew it. You''ve been working so hard day and night. You''re


    interested, but we can''t spread ourselves too thin, right? We''re still figuring things out with Oldtown


    Avenue, and you''re..."


    "Don''t meddle in our business!" My dad retorted, "You''re short-sighted. This isn''t just about the value of


    Oldtown Avenue anymore, you blockhead!"

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    Chapter 182


    When my mom heard my dad¡¯s criticism, she didn''t get angry. Instead, she leaned in closer. "Are you


    saying it''s truly worth more than this Oldtown Avenue?¡±


    My dad immediately straightened up as if his interest had been piqued, grabbed his coffee mug, gently


    blew on it, and took a sip. Then, he said with a straight face, "Absolutely. You know, the risk of getting


    cancer is getting higher and higher, and the treatment of cancer is gaining more and more attention.


    Whoever gets this project will have a once-for-all solution, right? It isn''t a short-lived trend but a long-


    I found an extra phone on the antique shelf in the living room. I hadn''t noticed when it was there.


    ¡°You can''t influence those shareholders, can you? It¡¯s a hell of a job to convince them. All the


    shareholders are old birds who wants no risks.¡± My mom said helplessly, ¡°Didn''t Mr. Richardson say


    that these old guys are just a bunch of unworkable dead woods? Besides, this was the impression they


    have given to Mr. Richardson before. It''s hard to change! What else can you do? It''s hard to talk them


    into it.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I won''t do things that areborious and thankless!¡± My dad put down his mug and leaned


    back into the couch. ¡°I couldn¡¯t care less about thankless jobs."


    ¡°Then why were you eagerly chatting with Mr. Richardson? It¡¯s also something we can''t change! It¡¯s


    good, but if we can''t have it, it¡¯s still frustrating!¡± my mom deted, striking a blow at my dad.


    My dad waved his hand and impatiently said, ¡°Gosh! You don¡¯t know shit! It''sborious, but it doesn''t


    mean there''s no room for maneuver. Why do you always have to charge head-on? Why not go around


    the problem and take a shortcut? Opportunity! What is opportunity? Opportunity is something we need


    to strive for. Don''t you get it?¡±


    My mom, rather than getting angry,ughed and retorted, ¡°You¡¯re lecturing me again! Fine. You sit here


    and ponder the flexibility. We won''t disturb you. Carl is sleepy. Look at him!¡±


    After my mom finished speaking, she turned her attention to me and ended the conversation. Perfect


    timing! This topic ended too perfectly!


    The key was about one word, which was flexibility!


    For God¡¯s sake, my mom had evolved to such a level by being around my dad. Wasn¡¯t he a magical


    teacher?


    Helga immediately came over and took over my son, Carl. ¡°I''ll put him to bed! Take a rest. You¡¯ve been


    watching him for half the day!¡±


    I didn¡¯t hesitate to hand the child to Helga and casually said, ¡°I am indeed a bit tired.¡±


    In fact, my health condition had improved a lot. The feeling of fatigue is gradually shortening. Only I


    could feel this improvement. I had not yet to go back for a checkup. When I returned to Goldenvale


    Town, I must have a subsequent visit.


    I also gently and obediently said to my dad, resting with his eyes closed, ¡°Dad, we¡¯re going to bed! You


    should have an early night, too!¡±


    My dad hummed a response without opening his eyes, like a patriarch.


    I chuckled to myself, thinking my old man was really a good actor.


    Just as I was about to head to my room, I suddenly remembered something. ¡°No, I have to go to the


    Damon family. My other two kids haven''te back yet!¡±


    My dad finally opened his eyes and checked the time. ¡°It is indeed a bitte. Go get them!¡±


    As he spoke, Probert, like an adult, led his sister back into the house. Judging from the look on their


    faces, Monique was forced by Probert toe home because she looked upset.


    But once they entered the living room, Probert ran over with a smile. ¡°Mommy, we¡¯re back! Monique


    says it''s toote, so she brought me back!¡±


    Monique suddenly looked at Probert. Probert secretly winked at her, and she finally rxed her tense


    face. ¡°Grandpa! Mom!¡±


    My dad immediately reached out to Monique with a smile. Monique, ttered, rushed over and threw


    herself into his arms, looking up at him and asked, ¡°Grandpa, they said that this Oldtown Avenue is


    ours. Is it true?¡±


    My dad gently held her, looking down at her expectantly anxious face.


    ¡°Do you want it to be true?¡± My dad didn''t rush to answer but asked her a question.


    ¡°Of course, I hope so!¡± Monique immediately perked up, her eyes brightening. She emphasized


    suspiciously, ¡°Is it ours?¡±

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    Chapter 183


    I could see the hope in Monique''s eyes. Just like the Dawsons, she had an insatiable greed that was


    hard to conceal.


    Galen studied Monique with a grave expression, "First, you need to answer a question. Do you know


    why you''re named Monique Dawson?"


    I was taken aback by Galen''s off-topic question.


    Monique was confused as she whispered, "I only know that you gave me this name, but Dad never told


    me what it means."


    I was sad. She hadpletely overlooked me, didn''t even mention me, and instead spoke of Jan.


    Clearly, Jan held a significant ce in her heart. It seemed as though everything she knew had to


    I noticed a subtle change in Galen''s expression.


    He spoke in a soft tone, "Alright then, I will tell you about your name today. Would you like that?"


    Monique nodded, revealing her innocence. Her eyes were full of admiration for Galen, waiting


    attentively. It was to an expression rarely seen on her face.


    Before this, she was always impatient and disdainful.


    I was quite worried about her upbringing. She was a rebellious teenager who was hard to handle,


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    especially Monique, whocked my affection and was spoiled by her dad.


    Although I knew this was something that couldn''t be rushed, I saw hope in her now. In front of Galen,


    she was so well-behaved and eager to learn.


    No wonder Galen said he could handle Monique''s issues. When he first said it, I thought he was being


    presumptuous. He had no idea how hard it was to deal with kids. But now, I saw that he had tricks up


    his sleeve to handle the young one.


    Moreover, Galen was experienced, having dealt with all sorts of things. How could be intimidated by a


    little girl like Monique?


    I initially nned to take Probert back to our room but changed my mind now, sat down, and made a


    gesture to keep Probert silent, pointing at Galen. Probert was quick to understand.


    How could I give up such a learning opportunity? I had to see how Galen was going to handle this.


    Probert was carefully listening.


    Galen looked at Monique with a gentle smile and a loving tone, "Your name, Monique, is derived from a


    novel. When you have time, I will read it to you. It''s a beautifully written book with an intricate plot. You


    may not understand it now, but once you''ve read it, you''ll stand out among your peers."


    He then asked, "Do you understand what it means to stand out?"


    "It means to be better than everyone else, right?" Monique exined in her innocent voice.


    Galen chuckled warmly, "Yes, Monique, you''re smart. That''s the right way to exin it. It means that all


    your talents are revealed. So, if you read these books, you''ll stand out among your peers."


    Indeed, Monique looked enthralled. She enjoyed being the center of attention.


    "I named you Monique because it has a good meaning, unique Not only does it give you inner strength,


    but it also contains the good hopes we have for you, such as an extraordinary and refined image,


    signifying wisdom, exceptional beauty, and uniqueness. Do you understand what these mean?"


    Monique cautiously asked, "Does that mean I''ll be unique?"


    Galenughed heartily, ruffling her hair, "You''re indeed clever, and that''s exactly what it means.


    However, your uniqueness requires continuous effort. Everyone is born equal and ordinary. If you want


    to be different and unique, you need to constantly improve yourself. Reading books is imperative."


    "Grandpa, you''re so cultured. Everything you say makes sense and is inspiring. Everyone in Silverdale


    City says you''re the most knowledgeable." Monique praised Galen with admiration.

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    Chapter 184


    Galen was pleased by her words, chuckling heartily as he held Monique into his arms, "Do you want to


    be someone who people think is incredible?"


    Monique looked a little diffident, but her eyes were filled with desire, "Can I?"


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Galen responded with utmost certainty, "Of course you can. I am not born being the best either, but I


    am willing to learn. Knowledge is the superpower that can change everything."


    Monique seemed energized by these words, but before she could express her determination, Probert,


    afraid of being left behind, quickly chimed in, "Grandpa, I want to learn from you too. If Monique can do


    it, so can I."


    Seizing the opportunity, Galen immediately asked, "Do you want to manage this street and make it your


    own?"


    "Really? Can we do that, Grandpa? Is this street ours like people say it is?" Monique asked again.


    "Of course, it''s ours," Galen said with pride, his answer firm and resolute.


    Not only the children but even I felt a sense of pride within me like never before.


    "So we''re really the owners of this street?"


    "Yes!"


    "That''s amazing. I admire you, Grandpa!"


    Monique''s exmation cut off Galen, revealing the inherent nature of the Dawsons.


    I couldn''t help but nce at Galen, who shrugged slightly, looking a bit deted.


    Galen raised a hand to stop me, continuing to speak to Monique, "So Monique, do you want to help me


    manage this street? After all, I''m getting older and there wille a time when I can''t manage it


    anymore. Then it''ll be up to you."


    Monique quickly responded, but asked doubtfully, "Grandpa, are you saying you''ll give me this street in


    the future?"


    "That depends on whether you can shoulder this responsibility. If you can, it''s yours. But the condition


    is that you must strive to make yourself strong, strong enough that no one can knock you down or take


    what''s in your hands."


    Galen''s words were ssic. To protect what everyone covets, we must be strong enough to hold onto


    it. Just like I failed to protect my Medsafe Liyah Inc, which only proved that I was not strong enough.


    "Can I do it, Grandpa?" Monique asked uncertainly.


    "You can because you''re Monique. You''re unique." Galen''s affirmation was like a healing potion.


    "I didn''t realize my name was so cultured. Grandma always said my name was too in" Monique was


    full of indignation, "She even wanted to change my name. I almost believed her."


    Galenughed helplessly, "Now that you understand the meaning of your name, do you still want to


    change it?"


    "No way! They don''t understand. It''s sad how ignorant they are. They don''t know anything, but they act


    like they do." Monique pouted.


    I was a little upset too. I didn''t expect there to be such a thing. Hazel really couldn''t keep her mouth


    shut.


    Galen didn''t get angry butughed, saying lightly, "You''re right, and your grandma is uneducated. Do


    you still think your name is too in? Do you still want to go to change it?"


    "Of course not! They don''t know anything. They''re not as knowledgeable as you." Monique''s words


    were childish, but they had a clear meaning.


    "They are fools," Probert shouted from the side.


    We immediately lightened.


    I saw Gemmae out pretending to tidy up, and she picked up her phone on the way.


    Galen and I exchanged a knowing nce.


    And I was relieved that all the conversation had been recorded.


    I was not afraid of them knowing that we said they were uneducated. This was the Dawson family''s


    Achilles'' heel and the best way to destroy them.


    What they fear most deep down was us looking down on them. Otherwise, no matter how much they


    protested, they wouldn''t dare to change Monique''s name, would they?


    Another point was that Jan would love to hear Galen say that the street would be Monique''s in the


    future. That was exactly what the Dawson family thought. Galen was getting old, and sooner orter


    everything here would be ours. This was the essence of it.


    It seemed our objective had been met.


    Just then, a message popped up.

 Chapter 185

    Chapter 185


    I quickly fished out my phone. It was a message from Gevena, and she had sent only a few words, [All


    smooth sailing! Capital verification reports have been exchanged. Awaiting response.]


    I quickly typed back, [OK. I''ve added a little something extra.]


    Gevena immediately replied with a question mark.


    I smirked, replying with a hint of amusement, [Just watch the show. We''ll talk more when I get back.]


    Gevena sent back a simple, [Okay.]


    With our tacit understanding, we ended the conversation. I held my phone, watching my two children


    interact with their grandfather. I wasforted.


    Moreover, today''s lesson was splendid. I was utterly impressed by Galen''s teaching skills. He didn''t


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    scold or reprimand; instead, he fostered an atmosphere of joy and harmony that not only produced


    excellent results but also stimted the kids'' enthusiasm and participation.


    Just like this moment, Monique who was impatient was now full of questions, constantly asking Galen


    questions that made himugh heartily at times, and she was listening attentively to others, and


    answering seriously when needed.


    For the first time, I noticed that Monique was quite eloquent and quick-witted. It was clear that she was


    smart. She would be good at learning if she was under proper guidance and able to hold her attention.


    In no time, they would indeed be unique in their own right. I wouldn''t need to worry about them


    being led astray by the Dawson family, which would be horrifying.


    It seemed that my n to keep the kids here was on track and was the right decision.


    I waspletely at ease. I had been worried that Monique''s temperament would stress my parents


    out. But now, that worry had disappeared.


    That night, after everyone was asleep, I quietly went to my mother''s room and told her that I might have


    to return to Goldenvale Town soon.


    She was taken aback and quickly asked, "Why? What happened that you need to leave so soon?"


    I quickly reassured her, "Don''t worry. It''s not about us. It''s about Jan''s mistress. Their child has gone


    missing, taken away without a trace."


    "Jan has a child with another woman?" my mother was shocked by this news, her anger ring,


    "That good-for-nothing scoundrel."


    I wanted tough. Even my mother, usually soposed and refined, was driven to curse. I quickly


    hushed her, pointing outside. She nodded and calmed herself down.


    I then exined in detail what had happened with Jan''s mistress, of course, downying the


    serious parts. My mother was angry, but she said, "We knew his bad behavior, but we never imagined


    he could be so terrible. My dear."


    She sighed, and was going to cry, and patted my hand and said, "You''ve had a tough ten years."


    "Mom, don''t be upset. To be honest, he was decent to me in the early years. Later, when I was ill and


    bedridden, I didn''t know anything, which was actually a blessing in disguise. It wasn''t that hard. I''m a


    strong person. Knowing how he treated me, I swore to get my revenge. I don''t love him anymore, and it


    doesn''t hurt."


    I gave a bitter smile and continued, "I chose to marry him. So, I have no regrets. But I need to correct


    this mistake. I want to send them all to hell and let them taste the torment of eternal damnation."


    "He is such a bastard! I thought, for the sake of our three children, we could spare him, so they


    wouldn''t grow up hating us. But now it seems they are all evils. Keeping them around would be a


    disgrace to our children." My mother was truly angry, as she seldom spoke so harshly.


    "Mom, speaking of the children, I''ve discussed with Dad. I n to leave Monique and Probert here with


    you." I broached the subject with my mother.

 Chapter 186

    Chapter 186


    "OK, we''re on the same wavelength. I was just thinking of discussing this matter with you, and it turns


    out we agree." My mom was immediately overjoyed at my proposal.


    "I initially only wanted to keep Probert. Firstly, to keep youpany, as he''s obedient and sensible, so


    he won''t be a burden. Secondly, with them away from me, I feel less constrained, and I can feel at ease


    here. However, Dad insisted that we should keep both of them, regardless of their personalities. We


    can''t let them run wild, and we need to guide them back on track, lest the Dawson family take them as


    excuses." I shared my thoughts and Dad''s opinions with Mom.


    "Your father''s right, and we should keep Monique too. We can''t let them manipte her. We can''t


    abandon our children." Mom''s stance was quite clear.


    "This kid has some bad traits of the Dawson family, so you''ll have to bear more burdens. As for Carl, I


    can take care of him as he''s young."


    "How long can you stay this time when you go back?"


    "It depends on the police investigation. Once everything''s clear, I cane back here and stay for a


    few more days." I exined to my mother, knowing she would miss me.


    "We haven''t done anything wrong, so what are we afraid of? Let them proceed with their investigation.


    All you need to do is cooperate, there''s no need to feel intimidated or burdened. Always remember,


    with our support, we can ovee any obstacle they throw our way in no time." My mom assured me


    confidently.


    Then she taught me seriously, "Always remember that we don''t do harmful things. We confront those


    who initiate conflict, but we never involve innocent people. Even though he has a child with his


    mistress, the child is meless in this. We must never exploit an innocent child''s situation.."


    I nodded solemnly, "Mom, don''t worry, and your daughter is kind, not a ruthless devil. I like the kid, and


    he''s fair and very endearing. If only he weren''t Marissa''s..."


    "Don''t overdo your kindness, and just take good care of our kids and cultivate them into useful


    individuals." Mom probably saw my overflowingpassion and reminded me, "Your three kids are all


    talented, they''re bound to be sessful. Just leave them be. Keep Carl here too, and I can take care of


    him. You can go back, ready to face anything. Don''t worry."


    My mom encouraged me while also she was helping to relieve me of my burden.


    "Then I''ll leave Helga here too. Carl is already epting her, and she can look after him, and if


    anything goes wrong, she can take him back to Goldenvale Town."


    I was a bit worried, but then I thought, I might be able toe back in just a few days, so I agreed, "Let


    Carl stay here too."


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    After discussing this, I chuckled, "Mom, Dad is really something, managing to generate such interest in


    Monique, and they''re even discussing books now."


    Hearing this, my mom patted my arm, whispering with a smile, "Don''t worry. You don''t have to regret it,


    and things are getting better. I''ve increasingly admired your father, and he is so sagacious."


    Iughed and nodded, "That''s true. I''m totally impressed."


    My momforted me, "Leaving the kids to us is more effective than having them with you. No matter


    when you''re their mother, no child can resist the bond with their mother. This time we''ll keep Monique,


    and guide her to understand the greatness of a mother, and your pain when you were sick. Naturally,


    she''ll be closer to you."


    "Can we really do that?" I was a bit surprised by my mom''s idea.


    "You underestimate your parents'' capabilities. Isn''t this exactly what a grandmother should do? Kids


    need guidance. The more you try to convince her, the more she''ll resist, but if someone else subtly


    guides her, the effect will be different. Think about it, if her uneducated grandmother can mislead her,


    then our proper education can certainly be effective. We can''t leave this child to the Dawson family.


    Otherwise, even a good child will be ruined." My mom illustrated this with an example.


    I leaned into my mom''s embrace, feeling as if I had returned to the past, and said with a blissful face,


    "Mom, it''s so good to have you guys, and I feel like I''m back in the past, just like a princess."

 Chapter 187

    Chapter 187


    "Sweetheart, no matter how old you are, or how many kids you have, you''re always our princess." My


    mom tenderly stroked my forehead. "My daughter is so beautiful and kind, so quiet and wise. Jan


    must have been a fool. Next time, marry a man who truly cherishes you, and who loves you deeply.


    You deserve that."


    Strangely enough, as she spoke, Ronan''s face appeared in my mind, along with his impressive stature


    and his mature, dignified demeanor. But I still held back, saying to my mom, "Mom! I''m a mother of


    three now, and why would I marry another man? I don''t have the courage for that anymore. I''ll raise


    them on my own, and after I''ve made a name for myself, I''ll spend the rest of my life with you and Dad."


    My mom quickly retorted, "As long as you''re thinking of us, that''s all that matters. Don''t be so


    pessimistic. You''re still young. You can''t waste time all on this kind of life. We can take care of the kids


    together. But you should also have a life of your own. Youth is precious, and you just haven''t met the


    right person yet, but you will."


    Iughed lightly, "OK, Mom!"


    "My only wish is for you to find the right man, and maybe have a couple more kids." My mom said.


    I couldn''t help butugh, "Mom, you really don''t know how hard it is. More kids? I regret having so


    many already, like I''m a baby-making machine."


    "We are rich, and we need heirs." My mom said boldly. "The one who loves you would want to have his


    children too. You shouldn''t be too selfish."


    "Someone who loves me? Let''s cross that bridge when we get there." I deliberately dodged the


    question.


    "That''s fine, and this time, he really needs to sweep you off your feet." My mom said that because she


    was indulging me.


    Indeed, I knew, my parents were wise, and they could see everything. But at the moment, I didn''t dare


    to face it. The pain of this heartbreak, only I knew how destructive it was. Even though I kept saying


    that I didn''t care anymore, what I didn''t care about was Jan''s infidelity, but I couldn''t ignore the


    humiliation he brought me.


    This would be a scar I''d carry with me for life.


    After all, I had three children. Even if I could raise them well, they would always be Jan''s kids, a fact


    that could never be erased.


    When I left my parents'' room, it was alreadyte at night. Lying in my own bed, I tossed and turned,


    thankful that I had the support of my wise parents, otherwise I wouldn''t have the courage I had now.


    All I could think about was, when I returned to Goldenvale Town, how could I triumphantly face those


    who wronged me?


    The next day. As expected, I received a call from the police of Goldenvale Town, requesting a meeting.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Despite telling them I was currently in Silverdale City, they were upromising and gave me a strict


    deadline. They gave me only six hours to get there. It seemed I had no choice but to return.


    Checking the time, I realized I had to leave immediately to make it.


    I had to admit this was yet another humiliation from the Dawson family, and it was extremely insulting.


    I raised an eyebrow and thought, "I really should take full advantage of this opportunity they''ve created


    for me."


    I briefed the kids and Helga, telling them I had to return to Goldenvale Town to handle some important


    matters, and that I''d be back once everything was settled.


    Monique and Probert both promised they''d listen to their grandparents and were more than happy to


    stay behind.


    This reassured me and filled my heart with joy. But I didn''t rush to tell them they''d be attending school


    here from now on, fearing it mightplicate things.


    Galen quickly arranged for a car to take me to the airport, and I hurriedly left.


    On the way, I called Ronan to let him know I was heading to the airport.


    He didn''t seem to care much, only giving me a nonchnt sound over the phone, his tone indifferent.


    I didn''t feel like saying much else, and simply said, "Well, I''m hanging up."


    He still responded with "OK"


    After hanging up, I felt a strange sense of loss, and muttered to myself, "What a boring guy! he was


    always like this, moody."


    This cooled my heated emotions instantly.


    At the airport, after getting my boarding pass, I headed straight for the gate. Going into this alone was


    somehow freeing, and filled me with determination.


    Once on the ne, I found my seat, about to settle down, but was suddenly struck frozen in ce.

 Chapter 188

    Chapter 188


    To my surprise, Ronan who had been so aloof on the phone earlier was now upying the seat beside


    me on the ne.


    Noticing my stunned look, he motioned towards the line of impatient passengers queuing behind me.


    With an apologetic smile, I quickly took my seat, but not before asking him, "You''re also heading to


    Goldenvale Town?"


    He asked, "Could this flight be headed anywhere else?"


    I was irked by his attitude, and after securing my luggage, I decided to give him the cold shoulder. He


    was moody.


    Sensing my irritation, he tried to make small talk, "Did you leave the kids behind? When are you


    nning toe back?"


    I mimicked his earlier tone and replied, "Do you think I have a say in this?"


    I was right, wasn''t I? This was the exact reason for my worry. I didn''t know what would happen once I


    got back home. My stay or departure depended on the police''s investigation.


    When I received the call in the morning, the tone of their voices had been stern and unfriendly, as if I


    were the kidnapper.


    On hearing my response, Ronan smirked, "You sure have a quick temper."


    I was taken aback. That was a ssic line between us. I was still not used to his face. I found myself


    wanting to keep looking at him, searching for simrities.


    He seemed to understand my actions, and when our eyes met, his voice softened, "You should get


    some sleep before we take off."


    With no room for argument, I closed my eyes, not out of obedience but to escape the awkwardness.


    The man I had been yearning for over the past twelve years was sitting right beside me. Even in first


    ss, there wasn''t enough room to avoid him. Sharing a flight thatsted over two hours was proving


    to be embarrassing, so I decided to block it all out by closing my eyes.


    He didn''t disturb me. He quietly asked a flight attendant for a nket, covered me gently, and then fell


    silent, quietly watching over me.


    Maybe it was the soft humming of the ne or the fact that I had stayed upte talking to my mom, but


    I soon drifted off to sleep.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    I awoke only when the flight attendant announced that we were about tond.


    His voice reached my ears, "Did you really fall asleep?"


    "Yeah! I stayed upte chatting with my momst night and then had to answer an early morning call. I


    didn''t get to sleep in."


    After saying this, I realized I was stating the obvious. If he was on the same flight, he must have known


    about the call from the police.


    He softly reassured me, instructing me to stay calm and answer all the police''s questions truthfully. He


    especially emphasized the truth. He also told me to stay cool no matter what happened once we


    I nodded and reassured him, "Don''t worry. I can handle it."


    I could see that he was the one who was nervous, rambling on and on.


    He examined me closely before apologizing, "I might not be able to go with youter."


    "No problem. I can manage on my own. Catherine ising to pick me up." I said dismissively, but


    deep down, I felt a twinge of disappointment.


    When it was time to deboard the ne, I quickly gathered my belongings, waved casually at him, and


    pointed toward the exit before walking off.


    As I neared the exit, I saw Catherine in the crowd. She saw me too and started jumping up and down,


    waving at me.


    I was about to stride towards her when I realized that things weren''t as simple as I had thought. The


    airport exit was swarming with reporters who seemed to know about my arrival on this flight.


    The moment they spotted me, they swarmed around me. Initially, there were only a few, but soon their


    number grew sorge that I could hardly move. I had never faced such a situation before, and it left me


    slightly flustered.


    Catherine was pushed far away by the crowd.


    Just when I was beginning to panic, a group of burly men, like knights in shining armor, appeared out of


    nowhere. They quickly separated the reporters and cleared a path for me.


    However, I had only taken a few steps when I was stopped by two police officers. After confirming my


    identity, they whisked me away.


    Catherine could only watch helplessly as I was escorted into a police car and driven away.

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    Chapter 189


    I was feeling quite rotten, despite Ronan''s repeated assurances that cooperation was crucial. This


    entire ordeal was a severe blow to my self-esteem.


    The ride was silent, with no attempt atmunication from either side.


    At the station, I was led into a meeting room and introduced to two officers. Their demeanor was


    friendly enough as they smiled, "Miss Aaliyah, right? No need to worry and this is a routine inquiry.


    Please, have a seat."


    Although hurt and confused, I managed to retain myposure, sitting across from them with calm.


    Facing the officers, their prating gazes made me a tad nervous.


    I couldn''t help but think to myself, that life really is unpredictable. I never imagined I''d find myself being


    questioned by the police because of my husband''s mistress. My resentment towards Jan grew.


    Their questions, however, weren''t too tough. I answered each honestly, without any evasion.


    "Do you know Evan?"


    "Yes!" I nodded assertively.


    "How did you get to know him?"


    "I met him about two months ago when I was picking up my son from school after recovering from an


    illness."


    "Do you remember the exact date?"


    "Yes. It was my son''s birthday. I wanted to pick him up and celebrate." I then mentioned Probert''s


    birthday.


    The questions were simple, I felt no pressure. They even asked why I chose to return to Silverdale City


    at that particr time.


    I answered all their questions with ease, not needing to think much.


    Everything seemed to be going smoothly. The questioning didn''tst an hour before they let me go.


    As I walked out of the room, I was startled to see Jan in the hallway. I hadn''t seen him for days.


    He looked a bit worn out. His face lit up with worry when he saw me. He rushed over, gripping my


    hand, "Honey, I''m sorry you had to go through this. It''s all my fault. Did they treat you badly?"


    I looked at him impassively, shaking my head without saying a word. I didn''t have the energy to keep


    up appearances.


    "Let''s go home." He wrapped an arm around me and nodded at the officers, "We can leave now, right?"


    "Yes, but you can''t leave Goldenvale Town yet. We might need to question you further."


    I stopped in my tracks and turned back to the officer, "Any news about the kid?"


    The officer seemed taken aback by the question but quickly regained hisposure, "No, not yet."


    I nodded, "I''m ready to be questioned again at any time." I then turned and walked out without looking


    back.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    Outside, I saw Catherine rushing over. She quickly assessed my state, "Allie, did they give you a hard


    time?"


    "Well, I spilled all the beans, so it wasn''t exactly hard." I replied nonchntly, "It''s more like a minor


    annoyance, a major insult. Who would''ve thought that I would be brought in for questioning one day?


    What a perfect life!" I said this mainly for Jan.


    Catherine nced at Jan disdainfully, "Just wait and see! There will be a silver lining in the end.


    You''re not the one who''s going to be insulted, so you don''t need to be afraid."


    "It''s not that I won''t be insulted, and it''s that I''ve already lost face." I snorted, looking at the reporters


    camped outside the station, "Do I have any ce to hide now?"


    "Don''t worry. I''ll get you out of here safely." He said, pulling me closer, as if afraid I might get hurt.


    "Of course, disying your affection is your specialty." Catherine retorted irritably, "With so many kids,


    losing one or two isn''t a big deal to you."


    Jan halted, looking at Catherine, "Catherine, as Allie''s best friend, you shouldn''t be saying such


    things at a time like this."


    Catherine bristled, stepping forward to confront him, "Then what should I say?"

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    Chapter 190


    "Zip it, all of you! Do you even know where we are?" I roared, silencing them instantly.


    Only then did they all regain theirposure. Jan shielded me, ushering me towards a car. I shot


    Catherine a knowing nce. She understood at once, tossed a warning at Jan to look after me,


    hopped in her own vehicle, and zoomed off.


    It took Jan a considerable amount of effort to dodge the swarm of journalists and get us home.


    In the car, I was obsessively scrolling through my phone, sting the volume. The screen was flooded


    with footage of the mob of reporters at the airport, their aggressive inquiries piercing the air.


    In all honesty, I hadn''t absorbed a single question when they were hurled at me.


    Now, looking at the footage with a clear mind, those questions were brutally direct, each one a blow to


    my dignity and reputation.


    They reported I was the prime suspect, the puppet master behind the kidnapping. I was the one who


    was summoned by the police as a bona fide suspect.


    Thements section of these videos was a tumultuous sea of usations, painting me as a deceitful


    viin, a wolf in sheep''s clothing. And I eveny a finger on a child. And they said I was trying to prove,


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    ying the victim, unting my love life. Shameless! In a word, both me and Marissa, the other woman,


    were to me.


    Intermingled with these clips was footage of Marissa, wailing on her knees, begging for her child¡¯s


    return. The sight was heart-wrenching a true tragedy.


    Someizens were shouting across cyberspace, urging me to spare the innocent child and to stop


    stirring the pot. But who was really stirring the pot here?


    Looking at the well-built men who shielded me in the footage, appearing and disappearing with


    discipline, I knew they were Ronan''s subordinates. But no one seemed to object to their presence.


    Perhaps people assumed they were police escorts.


    Jan gently took my phone from my hands,forting me in a soothing voice, "Stop watching this


    crap. Don''t let it get to you. This will pass."


    I turned to look at him, maintaining a steady gaze, "I bet the Dawson family are freaking out because


    Evan is missing."


    "Allie, I swear. I have no idea how this happened. I''m at my wits'' end. Please, believe me." Jan


    seemed to be in despair, showing a sight I''d never seen before.


    Truthfully, I couldn''t read him. What was going through his mind now that the child was gone?


    "Believe you? Then tell me the truth, Jan. Is Evan your child?" I stared into his eyes, demanding an


    answer, "I just want the truth."


    Jan shook his head, a look of utter helplessness on his face. He seemed to be miserable, then his


    frustration began to bubble up. His eyes were full of hatred as he stared at me, "Allie, can''t you stop


    pushing me like this?"


    "You''re the one that''s put me in this position." I snapped back, "I can''t hide from this. The police


    dragged me from Silverdale City with a single phone call. What position does that put me in?"


    I gestured at the phone, "Now, the whole world is pushing me,beling me as the wicked witch. How


    am I supposed to believe you? How am I supposed to save face for you now?"


    "All my energy is focused on Medsafe Liyah Inc..."


    "Don''t bring up Medsafe Liyah Inc., I don''t care about your damnpany." I spat out, my voice filled


    with contempt. It was as if Medsafe Liyah Inc. had lost all value in my eyes. Whether it survives or not, I


    couldn''t care less.


    "All I want is to live a quiet life, okay? Jan!"


    My words served as a hint to Jan; my return to Silverdale City was a sign of bigger things toe. It


    was a message that the happenings in Silverdale City were real.


    His decision concerning Medsafe Liyah Inc. would need to be elerated, and that was my true


    intention all along.


    When we reached the entrance of our estate, we were met with a familiar scene where journalists


    camped out, shadowing our every move. The moment our car pulled up, they swarmed us like a horde


    of zombies in a horror flick.


    We finally made it home, hoping for a moment of peace. But before I could even sit down, catch my


    breath, or take a sip of water, Jan''s mother burst through the door, followed by the seldom-seen


    Jan¡¯s father, Farley Dawson.


    Ah, it seemed they came as a group to confront me.

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    Chapter 191


    I watched them march in, making no move to retreat upstairs. Instead, I settledfortably into the


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    couch, not bothering to offer them a seat. Respect was earned, not given. In my presence, in my heart,


    they had lost that privilege.


    I sat there, cool as a cucumber, observing their hurried entrance, their faces contorted in wrath.


    They were efficient. They knew I was back, and their timing was impable. I had barely been home


    for two minutes when they barged in.


    Jan made an attempt to intervene but was easily brushed aside by Hazel, who stormed up to me,


    her brows furrowed in anger, "Aaliyah, where have you hidden Evan? Hand him over." she demanded.


    Thest time I saw Hazel, she was being escorted out by her son. Now, she looked significantly worse


    for wear. However haggard she appeared. She genuinely cared.


    Despite her previous disdain for Evan, even going as far as calling him a bastard in front of Marissa, it


    was clear that she was distraught over his disappearance.


    Her usatory tone, her brazen demand for Evan, wasughably absurd. Instead of getting angry, I


    chuckled, feigning ignorance. "Evan? Who? Where is he? Where should I take him?¡±


    "Stop ying dumb, Aaliyah," Hazel snapped, her face contorted in fury, "Do you want me to call the


    cops? I can have you arrested right now, you bitch!"


    "Go ahead," I replied, unfazed, "I''ll be waiting right here."


    Farley stepped in at this point, "You''ve gone too far, Aaliyah. You''ve caused nothing but chaos for this


    family. And now, you''re targeting a child. He''s been missing for days. Why are you making trouble like


    this?"


    I shot Farley a warning re. He was proving to be more of a nuisance than I had anticipated.


    Back when I first met him, Farley was a meek, timid man, always under Hazel''s control. He was as


    timid as a mouse, scurrying away at the first sign of trouble. But times had changed. The Dawson


    family¡¯s improved lifestyle had given him newfound confidence.


    These days, he strutted around in his fancy suits, ying the part of a gentleman. He even dared to flirt


    with attractive women. His behavior was the epitome of a bastard.


    ording to the information Logan had provided me, Farley''s extramarital affairs were not limited to


    these women. He was also involved in various illicit activities, always looking for whores. Yet he was


    daring to question me.


    "Jan, can you trante what they¡¯re saying?" I asked, ignoring their usations and turning instead


    to Jan, "The police haven¡¯t even confirmed that I took the child. Where am I supposed to take him


    back to?"


    "You''re lying," Hazel used, "If you hadn''t taken him, why would the police have brought you back


    from Silverdale City? This is Goldenvale Town, not Silverdale City."


    I met her gaze, my voice cold as ice, "What''s the difference between Goldenvale Town and Silverdale


    City?"


    "Goldenvale Town isn''t a yground for your antics." Hazel retorted, her eyes bulging in rage.


    "Can you all just calm down? It''s enough to make trouble outside, but you''re still fighting back at home.


    Have you all had enough of the good life?" Jan interjected, his voice filled with frustration. "Aaliyah


    just got back. She wasn''t even here when the child disappeared. Can we stop pointing fingers and


    adding to the chaos?"


    "But we''re not pointing fingers. We didn''t go to her in front of everyone because we saved her face.


    And Evan has no grudge against anyone who could take it away?" Hazel argued, her hands iling in


    exasperation.


    "Jan, we all think she did it. She''s the only one who''s jealous of Evan and that''s why she kidnapped


    him. She relies on the fact that the Wilburn family is rich and she dares to do anything. Why else would


    no one suspect Jerome¡¯s wife Cami?"


    I couldn''t help butugh at the absurdity of her logic. Being wealthy was enough reason for them to turn


    against me.


    "Shut up!" Jan roared, silencing the room.

 Chapter 192

    Chapter 192


    I watched Jan''s expressions with a cool detachment and felt curious. Knowing Jan as I did, the


    exhaustion etched on his face didn''t seem feigned.


    Could it be that Jan had no hand in this? That would indeed be interesting.


    I had originally thought Jan had engineered this ruse to divert the online attention, preventing it from


    interfering with his uing negotiations overseas.


    After all, I knew that Geneva had been putting immense pressure on him.


    Prior to the arrival of his foreign delegation, the localmerce bureau had issued Jan a stern


    warning not to disrupt the city''s investment attraction. Even the deputy mayor in charge of economic


    affairs was rumored to have lost his temper over the issue.


    Jan couldn''t be oblivious to the severity of the situation. He was now stuck between a rock and a


    hard ce, with no way out.


    On my way to the airport, I gave instructions to Geneva and Catherine. I asked Geneva to make a big


    deal out of this. And Geneva reassured me, "I would''ve done it even if you hadn''t asked. As long as


    you make the decision, I''ll back you till the end."


    I gave her a word of encouragement, "Even if we don''t seed this time, it doesn''t matter. What''s


    important is to corner Jan. He must follow the requirements, and prepare all the necessary


    documents."


    Geneva chuckled, "Aaliyah, you''re ruthless."


    "They forced me to do this!" I retorted vehemently. "If there''s no way out, then let''s block all the exits.


    Jan likes to be distinguished, doesn''t he? He wants to have power, doesn''t he? Let''s help him."


    "All decisions should be his responsibility. I heard this morning that he''s been consulting with banks,


    but he''s still hesitant. It must be hard for him to give back the money he''s gotten," Geneva sighed.


    I assured Geneva, "This will allow me to control the situation. Even if he wants to mortgage his assets,


    he won''t be able to do so in the short term. I''ll use this to push him over the edge, ensuring his


    downfall."


    Geneva assured me she would keep an eye on the situation.


    But if this wasn''t Jan''s doing, then I had to be wary of unforeseenplications.


    From what Catherine told me, Evan had disappeared from a summer ss. The child was known for


    being cautious. Could it be Jerome? But why would he hinder the expansion of Medsafe Liyah Inc.?


    Or could it be Zora? She''d always been bitter about Marissa''s child. Did she take advantage of the


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    chaos to strike a blow?


    I quietly weighed all possibilities, trying to anticipate whether I woulde up short in the current


    situation. I knew that I was fighting a lonely battle and couldn''t afford to lose. That was my bottom line.


    Jan was wise at the moment. I was absolutely sure of that. He knew my worth and wouldn''t dare to


    confront me now.


    Sure enough, he turned to me, "You don''t need to be angry, Allie. We''re a team, you and I."


    He was trying to cate me.


    At Jan''s words, Hazel bristled like a cat whose tail had been stepped on, "You''re siding with her?


    Jan, I think she''s got you scared."


    "Would you just shut up?" Jan snapped.


    "Look at her, always looking so sickly and yet so haughty, always criticizing our Dawson family. Let me


    tell you something, Aaliyah. You love my son, and you married into the Dawson family, so serving the


    Dawson family is your duty. Don''t think that just because the Wilburn family has some money, you''re


    something special. My son could have married any rich girl willing to serve the Dawson family, and any


    of them would be better than an invalid like you."


    I just smiled at her, saying nothing. One day, I''d show her how I fell ill and how I recovered.


    "I warn you, if anything happens to Evan, I''lle after you first." Hazel raged, like a vixen.

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    Chapter 193


    Even though I was used to their smirks and snide remarks, I was still infuriated by Hazel''s words.


    My calm mind was suddenly stirred into a maelstrom. I could taste the bitterness in my throat, and the


    joy of the past few days instantly disappeared.


    I couldn''t hold it in and retorted coldly, ¡°You better hurry up and find your precious grandson. Your son


    messed around everywhere, and he probably pissed off someone. So you better keep an eye on him!


    To glorify your family, you should spend less time yelling at me and more time finding that kid! Want to


    get me killed? Him! You better have the guts!¡±


    ¡°You bitch, are you causing trouble even now?¡± Farley seemed to have reached his limit as he raised


    his hand to p me...


    Just then, the door was abruptly pushed open with a loud bang. Farley, startled by the sudden noise,


    stopped his hand mid-air and looked towards the door.


    Catherine rushed in with a woman, who was strong and imposing. Despite her in attire, she was fit


    and agile. She walked straight towards me as soon as she entered, standing right beside me.


    I didn''t know her, but her actions instantly gave me a sense of security. I looked at Catherine


    approvingly, almost saying, ¡°You couldn''t havee at a better time.¡±


    Catherine, seeing the situation, roared at Jan, ¡°Jan, were you nning on beating Allie if I came


    in a bitter?¡±


    Jan was most irritated by Catherine''s temper and gave her a cold, displeased nce, venting all his


    resentment towards Catherine. ¡°Ms. Damon, mind your words. Even if you are Aaliyah¡¯s best friend,


    you should know your ce. What do you mean by ¡®beating Allie¡¯? Did you see it yourself?¡±


    Jan''s words made Hazel¡¯s face even more gloomy. She red at Catherine and grumbled,


    ¡°Busybody!¡±


    Catherine ignored Hazel¡¯s scowl and continued to stare at Jan, who still had not sorted out his


    emotions and continued to rant, ¡°All this mess happened because of you people interfering. I advise


    you, Catherine, don''t try to stir up trouble between my wife and me! When have I ever been violent


    towards Allie?¡±


    Jan spoke with a righteous tone and an incredibly oppressive air.


    Catherine pointed at Farley''s hand, which he hadn''t had time to put down, and yelled, ¡°What was he


    nning to do? She''s all alone and unwell, and you all are aggressively surrounding her. Do you think


    I''m blind?¡±


    Jan had not expected that Farley''s hand was still raised. Catherine¡¯s words made him nce


    sharply at Farley.


    At first, Jan intended to intimidate Farley, but today, Farley was not backing down. Instead, he


    ignored Jan and red at Catherine who was assertive and snapped, ¡°Who do you think you are,


    wagging your tail and barking, meddling in the Dawson family''s affairs?¡±


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    ¡°The Dawson family?¡± Catherine scoffed.


    Hazel quickly chimed in, ¡°What else could it be? Your family? You wish!¡±


    ¡°You have some nerve, barging into the Dawson family to protect her. I''m going to hit her today, and I


    want to see what you''re going to do about it, you little bitch!¡±


    As the saying goes, easier said than done, Farley raised his hand again, fiercely aiming for my head,


    but little did he know someone was faster...

 Chapter 194

    Chapter 194


    As Farley raised his hand to strike me again, the woman standing beside me swiftly raised her leg and


    kicked him hard. Hended with a ''thud'' on the ground that left even me stunned.


    It all happened so quickly That I didn¡¯t even see how her foot hadunched into action before Farley


    was kicked up,nding heavily. He stifled a grunt, twitching on the ground.


    I knew it. She wasn¡¯t just any ordinary woman. I nced at Catherine, catching a glimpse of a


    mischievous glint in her eyes. I suddenly understood that she had been prepared for this, but this was


    just the beginning.


    Seeing what happened, Hazel was instantly irritated, pouncing bitchily towards Catherine like a she-


    wolf, hurling insults all the while. Needless to say, her fate was even worse than Farley''s.


    I winced at the sight, feeling a twinge of sympathy.


    Jan roared, ¡°Catherine, you''ve gone too far! How dare youy a hand on my parents! You''ve


    crossed the line. Just because you''re Aaliyah¡¯s best friend doesn¡¯t give you the right to behave as you


    please. How dare you attack my family, even the elders!¡± As he spoke, he rushed to aid his parents,


    helping them up.


    I watched them grimace in pain, feeling no pity. Otherwise, it would be me in their ce.


    Catherine seemed unconcerned. With an air of aloof arrogance, she retorted, ¡°You¡¯ve got that right.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Thisdy happens to be a caretaker and bodyguard that Galen arranged for Aaliyah out of concern for


    her safety. If you had shown some love and care for Aaliyah, she wouldn¡¯t have had to step in!¡±


    Hearing it, Jan froze while attending to his parents, looking at the woman, then at me.


    I met his gaze coldly. Our rtionship had grown increasingly strained. I''m afraid we couldn''t even


    pretend anymore.


    ¡°You mean, my father-inw sent you?¡± Jan seemed incredulous.


    ¡°Or what?¡± Catherine folded her arms, her face full of contempt. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that the first person to


    bully her would be you, Jan! Don¡¯t me it on your parents. They take your side. You can¡¯t escape


    the me. What¡¯s wrong? Don¡¯t like the oue?¡±


    ¡°You... don''t make things worse!¡± Jan warned Catherine.


    ¡°Are you warning me? But it¡¯s clear you were bullying her. She came back alone to face your mess, but


    tell me, how did you expect her to cope? You created the mess and have the nerve to me the


    person cleaning it up?¡± Catherine spoke without mincing words.


    ¡°Catherine, I didn''t mean to bully Aaliyah!¡± Jan reiterated.


    ¡°Really? But what I saw and heard was different. Your father even announced that he would heat


    Aaliyah!¡± Catherine looked at Farley and smirked, ¡°It seems Galen was right to be worried. Of course,


    he wouldn¡¯t stand for his daughter being taken advantage of, regardless of the perpetrator¡¯s age. If you


    regard yourselves as elders, you shouldn¡¯t raise your hand.¡±


    ¡°You little¡­¡± Farley began to curse, but the woman simply shifted her stance and he immediately shut


    up.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Jan was at a loss for words. Meeting my gaze seemed to drain him of his confidence.


    I spoke calmly, ¡°You should take them home. If you want find that child from my ce, you will be upset


    because he¡¯s not here. If you want to take me, I¡¯m ready anytime. But don¡¯t even think about hitting me


    again. The one getting hurt might not be me. You should tell them to behave on the way. Jan, it¡¯s


    time for some self-reflection. I am not so foolish as to let myself be ughtered. I¡¯m sparing you some


    dignity for the sake of our three children. But if you continue on this path, I will take the kids, and we''ll


    part ways.¡± My voice remained steady, revealing no emotion.


    I was sure that my calm demeanor would make it clear to Jan that I had made up my mind.


    Although I hadn¡¯t mentioned divorce yet, he would know that I was considering it.


    At this point, his greatest fear was my decision. He knew I could take everything from him, especially


    the fortune he thought was within his grasp.


    Just when no one expected it, another person appeared!

 Chapter 195

    Chapter 195


    Today was quite the circus, with one act following another.


    I hadn''t even managed to get rid of Jan and his parents in my house when a police car roared up to


    my front gate, parking in front of my house with a squeak.


    Belonging to N?velDrama.Org.


    It looked like it had been here before because the way it parked was skillful.


    It was none other than Marissa, frantic in her search for her child. She wasn''t alone, though. A gaggle


    of reporters trailed behind her.


    What was even stranger was that even though the gate was wide open, she didn''t enter. Instead, with


    her hair spread out around her face, she ran up to the gate and started pounding on it, calling out my


    name with all her might.


    Once the reporters swarmed in, she took her act of desperation to a whole new level. With a dramatic


    thud, she fell to her knees outside the gate, her cries of "Aaliyah" echoing with heartbreaking misery.


    "Aaliyah, please let Evan go. He''s just a little child. He hasn''t seen his mother in days, and he must be


    scared! Everything is my fault, so if you want to take it out on someone, punish me. I was the one who


    got greedy, overstepping my boundaries and messing with your stuff..."


    I was speechless. Was this her way of asking for her child back? It was clear that she was here to y


    the victim and provoke me.


    Catherine was so furious that she looked like she was about to pop a vein. She was just about to storm


    out the door when I shouted, "Hold it right there, Catherine! What are you trying to do?"


    Meanwhile, the old fools of the Dawson family were enjoying every moment of this drama, their faces


    full of malicious delight as they watched me. They were practically egging Marissa on!


    I scoffed and turned to Jan. "Jan, I feel sorry for you. You married a woman who changed the fate


    of your family, but not one of them has ever considered things from your perspective."


    With those words, I sarcastically spoke to Jan presently, arching a fire upwards.


    "Your parents are constantly leeching off you. Your lover is a traitor, living in your house, driving your


    car, but carrying another man''s child. And at this crucial moment, she''s stabbing you in the back. Is she


    here to humiliate me? No, she''s here to drag you down, to ruin you!"


    "Jan!" I called his name, but my eyes were fixed on Marissa''s sobbing figure outside the window. I


    smirked, "Isn''t it clear who she''s really trying to protect? You still can''t figure it out, can you? What a


    fool!"


    Jan, of course, got the message and immediately called the police.


    By this time, a crowd had gathered outside the gate. Not just reporters, but also residents from the


    neighborhood. This was entertainment no one wanted to miss!


    For some reason, I had a feeling Marissa wasn''t just here to y the victim. But what was her real


    motive?


    Marissa was still crying her heart out at the gate, drawing more attention with her dramatic disy.


    Not annoyed, I took out my phone and scrolled through the news feed. As expected, the whole incident


    had blown up on social media. The public sentiment was overwhelmingly against me, with calls for me


    to release the child and demands for the authorities to punish me severely.


    Jan''s phone rang. He answered and listened without speaking, pacing nervously.


    I was starting to feel anxious. Was this the moment Jan had to make a decision? Was there another


    force trying to suppress him?


    The wail of sirens grew louder as they approached. Marissa''s cries seemed to lose some of their


    intensity.


    I raised an eyebrow as Jan hurriedly said something to the phone before ending the call.


    The crowd outside was getting restless, yelling at me for having the guts to call the police and shouting


    for me toe out and exin myself.


    I was like a turtle in its shell, refusing to show my face no matter how much the crowd outside raged on.


    I sat calmly in my house, watching Marissa''s dramatic performance with a faint smile.


    Hazel was incensed by themotion outside. She red at me and asked, "Aaliyah, you''re truly


    heartless to have called the police. What do you think you''re doing?"


    I smiled teasingly and replied, "Weren''t you the one who wanted to call the police in the first ce?


    What''s the matter? Not in a hurry to find your grandson anymore? Want to keep watching the show?"


    She was so infuriated that she pointed a finger at me and yelled, "Aaliyah, don''t get too cocky. If


    anything happens to Evan, I swear I won''t let you off the hook!"

 Chapter 196

    Chapter 196


    I chuckled, pushing myself off the couch and said, "If you keep this up, sooner orter you''re gonna be


    digging your own grave! Sorry to burst your bubble, but it was your son who called the cops. Like you, I


    also hope to find the kid soon and give some closure to the public. But let me remind you, before you


    call him your grandson, you better make sure he''s legit, unless you want the Dawsons to be a


    At my words, Catherine couldn''t hold back a giggle.


    "Cut the crap! Evan is my grandson. He¡¯s a Dawson!" Farley bellowed, massaging his aching back.


    "Why don''t you tell that to the reporters outside?" I teased, then turned to Jan. "Jan, don''t you get


    it? Marissa didn''te here to y the victim voluntarily! You know why she came, don''t you?"


    My statement added fuel to the fire.


    I suspected it was Jerome.


    After the police dispersed the crowd, I stood by the window, locking eyes with Marissa, who was under


    police control. I raised the corners of my mouth slightly and dialed Jan''s number.


    As Jan picked up, I suggested in a low voice, "Since she''s returned the car, we might as well take it


    back."


    Jan stared at me for a few seconds, hung up the phone, and strode over to Marissa. And then he


    snatched the car keys from her hand. I saw Marissa struggle to grab them back again, but with the


    police holding her back, she red venomously in my direction, to which I responded with a warm


    smile through the window.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    The farce ended, the crowd was fully dispersed, and Marissa was taken away in a police car.


    After the police left, Jan approached me with the car keys in hand. "You can drive it from now on!"


    I smirked and asked, "Me?"


    He averted his gaze, realizing toote that he had misspoken. The very moment he retracted his hand,


    I grabbed the keys, tossed them to Catherine, and said, "Catherine, sell this car and donate the money


    to the kids in need!"


    Hazel exploded at my words, "On what grounds? Donate? Aaliyah, you''re just throwing money away.


    That car wasn''t bought for you, so you have no right to dispose of it. You sure know how to y the


    saint, don''t you? You''re just going to donate such a hefty sum like that?"


    Farley looked at me as if I were a monster, "You''re too arrogant!"


    "Or what?" I countered. "Everyone knows this car was used as a ride for his mistresses. Are you not


    disgusted? Or do you not care about the Dawson family''s reputation, having people say, this is the car


    the Dawsons specifically assign to his mistresses?"


    Catherine giggled at my words with a gloating look on her face.


    I then turned to Jan. "What do you think? After causing such a scandal, you still want to maintain


    your dignity? Where does your dignitye from? Isn''t it time to save face? Now everyone knows that


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. was partnering with overseaspanies, but it''s all been capsized by a mistress!"


    My words were harsh. "Jan, whether or not the missing kid is yours, you''re stuck with thebel!"


    "You..."


    "Speaking of which," I turned to Hazel, who had been giving me the cold shoulder, "Aren''t you


    anxiously looking for your grandson? Why are you still here? Remember, time waits for no one, and


    tragedy can strike at any moment!"


    Hazel''s face turned ashen at my words. She stepped forward, but hesitated when she saw the woman


    beside me take a step forward. She pointed at me and said, "Aaliyah, you better hope you''ve got


    nothing to do with the kid''s disappearance..."


    She then yelled at Farley, "What are you still doing here?"


    As the two of them left, I added meaningfully to Jan, "Seems like some people are terrified of finding


    that kid. Maybe you''re the only one who doesn¡¯t know where he is."

 Chapter 197

    Chapter 197


    Just as I was about to leave, my cell phone rang. I picked it up and saw it was my dad, so I answered


    with an exaggerated sign of exhaustion, "Hey, dad!"


    "How''s everything going?" His voice, warm and soothing, brought me somefort.


    "Not so good, Dad. I''m kind of stuck here in Goldenvale Town until I find the kid. No telling when I can


    get back to Silverdale City," I said, hinting at my predicament which I knew he would understand. Sure


    enough, he immediately reassured me, "Don''t worry, just stay home and cooperate with the


    investigation. The kids are fine with your mom and me. How''s everything at Medsafe Liyah Inc.?"


    "I''m not sure, to be honest. I''ve been caught up in this mess since I got back. I guess we''ll just have to


    see how it goes," I responded, feigning disinterest.


    "What about Jan?" my father asked sternly. Jan, who had been eavesdropping on our


    conversation, jumped at the mention of his name, "Uh¡­Dad, I''m here."


    "Jan, you''ve really disappointed me. I thought you were someone who could handle responsibility,


    yet you''ve caused such a ridiculousmotion! I didn¡¯t want to get involved in your marital issues, but


    what have you done? I did not me you for Allie''s illness, but now it seems that you have everything


    to do with it!!" My dad''s voice boomed in anger.


    Jan''s face turned beet red, but I could detect a hint of defiance! I knew him too well. He was being


    chastised by my father in front of Catherine and he had nowhere to hide his embarrassment.


    "I thought I could leverage our newly opened overseas market to give Medsafe Liyah Inc. some extra


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    support and to strengthen its foundations. But it seems I''m fighting a losing battle. I''d better save myself


    the embarrassment," my dad concluded, and with a click, he hung up!


    The room was silent as a grave. I closed my eyes with a pained expression on my face.


    After a while, I turned to the woman Catherine had brought with her and said, "Lady, I''m starving!"


    Upon hearing this, she immediately turned and headed for the kitchen. Watching her disappear into the


    kitchen, I gave a wry smile and said to Catherine, "I''ve be aughingstock."


    Catherine sighed and softlyforted me, "Don''t overthink it. Your dad''s just angry. He''s not going to


    abandon you."


    "I''m the one who''s going to bring down the Wilburn family! How can I ask them for help?" Iughed


    sarcastically. "I''ve be a suspect now, with all this sickness..."


    Jan''s eyes darkened. He sat in silence for a while, and then stood up and said, "Allie, don''t take it


    too hard. I have some things to take care of, so I won''t be joining you for dinner. I know I''ve let you


    down, but trust me... I won''t let you be theughingstock!"


    Without response, I just sat there, looking defeated.


    Jan didn''t stay. He grabbed his bag, said he''d be backter, and left.


    Catherine and I exchanged nces. She whispered, "It seems like he has made a decision!"


    "I hope so!" I replied, looking at Catherine with newfound energy. "Call her over! I want to meet her!"


    Catherine quickly called the woman over and introduced, "This is Hannah, handpicked by Ronan to


    take care of you from now on."


    "Hello, I''m Hannah."


    I smile and look over at her in a friendly way, "You couldn''t havee at a better time. Otherwise, I''d


    be eating crow!"


    Catherine and I bothughed.


    "Mr. Richardson anticipated this. He arranged for me to be here yesterday!" Hannah exined.


    Upon hearing this, I felt a little guilty. She seemed too good to be true, and I felt undeserving of her


    help.


    "Just stay with me for a while, until Medsafe Liyah Inc. is settled. I don''t dare to take advantage of you


    after that!" I said honestly. Then I turned to Catherine. "I need to contact Gevena as soon as possible.


    I''m worried about the oue."


    "Give her a call then! Or we can meet. I haven''t seen her in days!" Catherine eagerly suggested.


    I immediately dialed Gevena''s number and she picked up instantly. "Aaliyah!"


    "Where are you?" I asked straightforwardly, hearing a noisy background on her end.

 Chapter 198

    Chapter 198


    Geneva quickly said to me, "Jta is showing signs of waking up. I''m at the hospital with Janice!"


    "Really?" I eximed excitedly, "That''s great news!"


    "That''s why I''m here with Janice at the hospital. I''m worried about her condition," Geneva stated


    seriously. "Although things look promising, we can''t be sure when she''ll wake up. We''re just waiting for


    Jan''s order, but I''m not sure what he''s hesitating about."


    She knew the reason I called and lowered her voice. "I can''t push him anymore."


    "I suspect someone is interfering with his decision," I said confidently.


    "You mean, something to do with the kid?" Geneva asked.


    "It might be. I have a feeling Marissa is being manipted," I replied, feeling a bit uneasy. "But I can''t


    figure out why someone would want to hinder the growth of Medsafe Liyah Inc. It doesn''t make sense."


    "What did the police say?" Geneva asked.


    "They''ve limited my movements, but I feel like there''s more to it. They haven''t asked me any probing


    questions," I aired my doubts.


    "We''ll just have to wait then. The kid is missing and that''s a fact," Genevaforted me. "It''s been over


    40 hours, we should hear something soon."


    I nodded and asked, "Should I go to the hospital with Catherine? Do we need to stay overnight?"


    "It''s too soon to tell, we''ll discuss itter tonight. The point is that Jta is waking up, and Janice is


    really worried."


    "Oh, when''s the deadline for the verification?" I asked Geneva before hanging up.


    "Tonight is the deadline, and negotiations start tomorrow," Geneva replied.


    "So soon?" I was taken aback. I hadn''t expected today to be the deadline.


    I couldn''t tell what Jan had decided before he left just now.


    "The inspection team''s schedule was moved up. Twopanies have already finished the process, so


    everything was expedited," Geneva sounded helpless. "We can''t make any more moves now."


    "I understand."


    I hung up and stood up nervously, pacing around, trying to figure out what Jan was hesitating about.


    Catherine noticed my distress and cautiously suggested, "Should we try to push him a bit more?"


    "No, we shouldn''t startle him," I said firmly. "Something doesn''t feel right."


    "What do you mean?" Catherine asked, "The kid?"


    I shook my head, unable to express my feelings.


    After dinner, I asked Catherine to go to the hospital to check on Jta. Janice has been very


    supportive and helpful throughout this ordeal, despite being pregnant. Now that she needed help, I


    couldn''t just do nothing.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Catherine looked at me worriedly, "Are you sure you''re okay? I should stay with you. It''s not like Jta


    will wake up right away."


    "You should still visit. Besides, Hannah''s here with me," I reassured her. "Staring at each other isn''t


    going to help. We''ll just have to see what happens."


    "I''ll be back soon then. If there''s no problem, I''lle back straight away," Catherine said, and then


    reminded Hannah of a few things before hurriedly leaving.


    My heart was in my throat at this point.


    The office had closed for the day, but there was still no news. I knew Jan hadn''t made a decision yet


    because I would get a notification on my phone if there was a deposit in the ount.


    I was clinging to the hope that we still had until 10 a.m. tomorrow.


    Everything hade to this point. If Jan gave the order to proceed with the overseas negotiations,


    he would close all loopholes, and then there would be no turning back. But as the minutes ticked by,


    everything was calm, and there was no sign of Jan returning.


    I clutched my phone, pacing back and forth, unable to face the reality that all our ns might be for


    naught.


    How Jan and I would face each other in the future, and whether I could recover the assets he had


    moved, were all uncertain.


    The scariest part was that I couldn''t influence his decision at this time, and I had no idea how many


    secrets were hidden behind all this.

 Chapter 199

    Chapter 199


    Just when I was overtaken by nerves, a crisp chime of the doorbell made my heart leap into my throat.


    I instinctively nced at the time on my phone - it was already past nine in the evening. It had to be a


    stranger!


    I quickly got up and hurried downstairs. Anyoneing at this time certainly had some urgent


    business.


    As I rushed downstairs, Hannah had already gone to open the door. My eyes were glued to the


    entrance, curious to see who it might be.


    Soon, Hannah brought in a slender woman, and I cried out in surprise, "ra!"


    ra stood there, her face pale and unsmiling. She looked like she had a lot to say but seemed


    hesitant to speak.


    I hadn¡¯t seen her in only a few days, but she seemed thinner and her skin had lost its glow.


    I walked over to her, extending my hand. "What brought you here?"


    As soon as I said it, I realized my blunder. She instinctively stepped back, pulling her hand away before


    I could touch it.


    My hand froze mid-air, and she nced at me, her lips twitching. "I''m dirty."


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Her soft-spoken words struck me like a bolt of lightning. I was stunned, of course, I knew what she


    meant.


    ra continued to gaze at me, a self-deprecating smile ying on her lips, "Mrs. Dawson, I have


    something important to say. I''ll leave as soon as I''m done."


    Her tone suddenly turned cold. She was smart enough to guess what I was thinking.


    I stepped forward again, grabbing her hand and pulling her with me, "Come with me!"


    She struggled lightly, but I held on firmly, leading her to the couch and making her sit next to me.


    I looked at her, my voice trembling as I asked, "Is it true that you..."


    "Yes, none of us escaped. We''re all infected!" she replied, a hint of sadistic pleasure in her voice.


    I tightened my grip on her hand, an indescribable emotion welling up inside me.


    To be honest, I felt guilty. But she justughed mournfully, as if she could see through my mind. "It


    doesn''t matter, and you''re not to me. My life was already a mess. Without Jan, it wouldn''t be any


    better. I''m a piece of trash, tainted beyond redemption. It has nothing to do with you."


    "I''m sorry," I whispered, feeling helpless.


    "There''s only one person in this world who owes me an apology, but she refuses to say it," ra said


    stubbornly, "So even if it costs me my whole life, I won''t let her go."


    "Is it worth it?" I asked, looking at ra''s youthful face with pity.


    "There''s no question of worth. I''ve never nned on living a long life since I was 15. I''m just living day


    by day," raughed, surprisingly carefree.


    I didn''t know what to say. I didn''t know how to face ra. Should I hate her, pity her, or feel sorry for


    her? She was still in the prime of her life, but her fate was so tragic.


    Before I could gather my thoughts, ra changed the topic. "Mrs. Dawson, it¡¯s Jan taking Marissa''s


    kid."


    "What did you say?" I couldn''t believe what I had heard, "You mean, Jan took Evan?"


    This was beyond my expectations. I had thought that Jan would let all clues point towards the kid so


    that he could use the kid to divert the attention of those people online and divert the traffic.


    However, ra''s revtion about Evan''s whereabouts was certainly not what I had expected.


    Sure enough, ra nodded affirmatively. "Yes, he asked Zora to take him."


    "Zora?" I stared at ra in surprise. Of course, I believed her, but I was a little slow to react. Why


    would Jan do this? Moreover, involving Zora changed the nature of the whole thing.


    "Where''s the kid now? Is he in danger? He''s just a kid, this is..."


    ra grinned at me, her smile radiant. "Mrs. Dawson, you''re too kind-hearted!"

 Chapter 200

    Chapter 200


    The kind of smile ra had when she said that was full of sarcasm. The way she looked at me was as


    if she was piercing through the facade I was hiding behind. Her expression was telling me one thing-


    she was calling me a hypocrite.


    ¡°I admit that I¡¯m envious, I¡¯m discontented, and I don¡¯t want to face the fact that my husband has a child


    outside our marriage,¡± I confessed, ¡°But I genuinely care for that child. After all, I have children of my


    own. I know how terrified they would be, being taken away so suddenly...¡± I couldn''t finish my sentence,


    murmuring, ¡°Why would he do that?¡±


    ¡°Jan¡¯s initial intention was simple. He wanted to end the chaos on the inte as quickly as possible.


    His biggest fear was that someone would use the child to sow discord between you two, and force him


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    into a DNA test!¡± ra looked at me, her tone confident.


    ¡°A DNA test?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Exactly,¡± ra nodded. ¡°That night, he came home veryte, drunk, his eyes bloodshot,¡± ra mused,


    recalling the night.


    ¡°Which night?¡±


    ra thought for a moment. ¡°It should be the day you went to the office to deny the rumors to the


    press! The day you went to Silverdale City. Janined that you went to Silverdale City without


    telling him. It was a bad sign. Yes, that day! He said in frustration, ¡®She is not the docile woman people


    see. She is not someone to be manipted. It''s all an act!¡±


    I scoffed, ¡°It seems Jan finally sees me correctly!¡±


    ra continued, ¡°That day, Zora was delighted to see him at our ce. Jan said you had left for


    Silverdale City! Zora even teased Jan. Jan was distressed, so Zora took him to their room.¡±


    ¡°Looks like Zora has earned her ce by Jan''s side!¡± I snorted, ¡°So, how did you find out that Jan


    let Zora take the child away? Do they know you know about it?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± ra said confidently.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± ra responded with a disdainful sneer, ¡°Even though Zora watches me like a hawk, I have my


    ways.¡±


    She finished with an evil smile and took out her phone, and then flipped to a folder and clicked on it..


    I heard Zora and Jan''s voices from the phone.


    ¡°Oh... lie down. Let me prop up your head... What''s bothering you? Drinking too much is bad for your


    health,¡± Zora''s voice was seductive. I had never thought Zora could be this gentle. This was the first


    time I heard Jan interact calmly with Zora.


    It seemed Jan was at his wits'' end. Discussing things with Zora showed his confusion at that time.


    ¡°Bitch! How dare she betray me!¡± Jan¡¯s voice came, filled with anger and resentment, ¡°I treated her


    well!¡±


    I was sure the bitch he was referring to was Marissa.


    ¡°Ha! You treated her well? But don¡¯t forget, there are many who treat her well. Do you think all your


    women are all as devoted to you as I am?¡±


    ¡°Zora, you better shut your filthy mouth!¡± Jan snapped angrily, and Zora immediately fell silent.


    ¡°This bitch! If it wasn''t for her personally handling Medsafe Liyah Inc., I wouldn''t have let her take


    advantage. I didn''t expect her to go to Jerome. I really underestimated her.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not gonna like it, but I¡¯ve checked into Marissa long ago. She¡¯s not the type to settle down.


    She¡¯s never short of men. She¡¯s kept more than one man, not just Jerome. She even had an affair with


    a married man, you think she...¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Jan roared, probably smashing a ss in rage.


    After a while, Zora¡¯s cautious voice came again, ¡°Don''t get angry. Dealing with her is a piece of cake!¡±


    There was a silence on the phone, and then Jan¡¯s sinister voice came, ¡°What I¡¯m most worried


    about right now is Aaliyah!¡±

 Chapter 201

    Chapter 201


    Zora probed further, "What are you so worried about her?"


    "Aaliyah isn''t just any woman to be trifled with. At this point, my biggest fear is falling out with her. If she


    turns her back on me, the loss would be too great!" Jan muttered to himself. It seemed like he was


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    speaking his deepest fears aloud.


    "Damn!" He cursed, "When it rains, it pours. One wrong move and everything goes to hell! I shouldn''t


    have gotten involved with Jerome''s messy business. If I hadn''t, Aaliyah would never have known about


    my other intentions. She had no reason to be defensive against me and I wouldn''t have had to take


    action against her. Now look at the mess we''re in. If Aaliyah finds out that the child is mine, she will


    never forgive me."


    "Do you regret it?" Zora asked bluntly, "Don''t you have a backup n?"


    "What the hell do you know?" Jan yelled, "That''s myst resort, an all-or-nothing move! But now, the


    prize of the project in Silverdale City, the key to all my dreams, is ruined, all thanks to Jerome!"


    Another bout of silence ensued.


    "Who would''ve thought that the Wilburn family had such resources? Galen really had wisdom," Zora


    said, her voice filled with envy and resentment.


    "If it weren''t for Jerome pushing me towards the big bucks, how would I have ended up in such a


    predicament? How would I have fallen into this trap?"


    Jan cursed vehemently, "Now, even though I have Medsafe Liyah Inc., I''m the one with the most to


    lose! Everyone benefited from me, but in the end, it only strengthened Jerome''s position. He didn''t


    invest a single penny and yet he''s the hidden mastermind behind Medsafe Liyah Inc. I''m the one taking


    the risks, he''s the one reaping the benefits, and now he dares toy a hand on my woman. He''s not fit


    to be my brother! I''ll get my revenge sooner orter."


    Finally, I understood the situation. The one who had led Jan astray was none other than his own


    brother, Jerome.


    "Didn''t he say that once the time is right, he would hand over the entire power structure to you? If he


    really manages to regain control of the overseas channels, won''t the huge ck market... still be


    yours?" Zora asked, trying to probe further.


    "Do you think he''s willing to do that, given his current situation? He''s had that bitch, Marissa Collin, set


    me up with AzureEnchantress leads several times now! What does this mean? It means his ambitions


    have gotten bigger! He wants to use my Medsafe Liyah Inc. as leverage." Jan cursed angrily, "Thank


    God I had a backup n. Otherwise, all my efforts would have gone to waste!"


    "What are you nning to do?"


    "None of your business!" Jan snapped.


    "If you ask me, that bitch Marissa deserves to be discarded!" Zora proposed venomously, "She hasn''t


    been on your side for a long time now, so are you still holding back? Is the child really yours?"


    Jan stayed silent for a long while, before finally admitting gruffly, "We did a DNA test when the baby


    was born. It''s mine."


    "Hah... You should probably do another test just to be sure! Since Jerome had a go at Marissa, nothing


    is certain. He''s even more cunning than you!" Zora''s words brought a sly smile to my face. Seems like


    Zora isn''t as dumb as she looks when it counts.


    "Jan, I have an idea that could solve your immediate problem. It would divert people¡¯s attention,


    protect you from Aaliyah''s usations, and leave Jerome powerless, at least for a while." Zora''s voice


    was smug.


    "What''s the idea?" Jan asked, sounding defeated.


    "Well¡­" Zora drew out her words, leaving him hanging.


    "Out with it, stop messing with me!" Jan retorted impatiently.


    "My suggestion is to move the child elsewhere. You mentioned that regaining Aaliyah''s trust is your


    main concern, isn''t it?" Zora shared her thoughts, "Take the child away, so even if Aaliyah wants to do a


    DNA test, she won''t be able to find the child. Once everything settles, forge a fake DNA report iming


    the child is Jerome''s."


    "But I..."


    "I''ll do it! You don''t have to lift a finger!" Zora volunteered.

 Chapter 202

    Chapter 202


    After hearing the conversation between Jan and Zora, I was frankly speechless. It seemed Zora was


    truly devoted to Jan.


    I turned to ra, my face full of confusion. "How did they do it? Wasn''t the kid supposed to be in


    summer camp? The police checked the surveince and found nothing unusual. How did she manage


    to take him away?"


    ra gave a wickedly enchanting smile, her eyes concealing a chilling mystery.


    A cold dread filled me, and a thought emerged unbidden. ra was not to be pitied; her heart was filled


    with darkness, ready to pounce and tear into me.


    ra smiled faintly. "The only way to catch someone off guard is through love, right?"


    "Jan?" I asked incredulously, "You mean Jan yed cover?"


    "Don''t you believe me?" ra asked, her smile unwavering, "Once he made up his mind, does the


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    method really matter?"


    I couldn''t help but shake my head, my thoughts inevitably turning to my own children.


    Jan was their father! A chill ran down my spine.


    With a hint of schadenfreude, ra continued, "Don''t forget, Jan is Evan''s father. He certainly has


    ways to take him away!"


    "But I thought Zora was the one who took action?"


    "Yes, it was indeed Zora! Jan didn''t show up!" ra confirmed with a nod.


    "Perhaps you''re unaware, but after the Neal incident, Janshed out at Marissa, and Zora made


    things worse. You can imagine Marissa¡¯s predicament. Jerome, at this point, was avoiding the situation


    and definitely wouldn''t intervene," ra exined.


    I didn''t interrupt, listening attentively.


    "And with the ''mistress incident'' causing a rift with Jerome, and having ignored Marissa and her child


    for several days, she naturally harbored resentment towards Jan. When it was time to take the child


    away, Jan promised Evan a lunch out, but on the condition that he didn¡¯t tell Marissa.


    Jan instructed Evan to sneak out first, promising to call his teacher after he left, fearing the teacher


    would not allow it. Jan told Evan that he would take him back after the meal!"


    I shook my head with a bitter smile. This beast even used his own child.


    "Of course, Evan was thrilled. He managed to sneak out during lunchtime when the teachers were


    busy distributing meals. Some kids were washing their hands, some were in the restroom, and others


    were running around the hallway... And that''s when Evan slipped away from summer camp. Zora''s car


    was parked behind the gazebo in the greenbelt. As soon as Evan left the building, he crouched down


    and got into the car. The security cameras couldn''t cover him, and Zora easily took him away. Evan


    willingly went with her! Everyone had oveplicated a simple matter."


    "It seems the police were misled!" I sighed, feeling absurd.


    No wonder they hadn''t found any clues. They were still puzzled about how such a child was taken


    away, not realizing he could just walk out, like ying hide and seek.


    All he had to do was avoid the security cameras at the entrance! However, it must be said that he had a


    reckless father!


    "Where is the child now?" I asked ra anxiously.


    For some reason, I had a bad feeling. If initially Jan just wanted to divert everyone''s attention for


    fear of bacsh and me turning against him and forcing a DNA test to disrupt his ns, he probably


    didn''t anticipate that things have spiraled out of his control now.


    If he was the one who took the child, he could argue he was teaching Marissa a lesson, or he wanted a


    secret meeting with his son, without external interference, without more media attention. That would


    have been understandable!


    Worst case scenario, it would have been a touching father-son moment, something I couldn''t criticize.


    But Jan''s mistake was involving Zora. Then again, another reason came to mind...

 Chapter 203

    Chapter 203


    The reason Jan hid the child, as Zora suggested, I believe, was to have an ideal scapegoat in Zora


    once the truth came out.


    I''ve never really believed that Jan genuinely cared for Zora.


    After all, Zora was our nanny. Even if she was now dismissed, she couldn''t get rid of thatbel. And I


    suspect that Jan''splete trust in Zora stemmed from her unwavering loyalty. Zora was his perfect


    puppet.


    But in the face of imminent danger, Jan wouldn¡¯t hesitate for a second to use Zora to his advantage,


    easily washing his hands clean of everything.


    He sure knew how to y his cards, but ns are always outrun by changes. Marissa, that fool, not


    only couldn''t keep cool and called the police but also yed the victim publicly.


    This put Jan on the back foot again. The child became a hot potato he couldn¡¯t get rid of. No wonder


    he''s been indecisive. I guess he''s always ready to go all in.


    If things couldn''t be turned around, he could easily escape without a second thought. After all, the


    wealth he''s transferred was enough for him to squander for generations! I get it, I get it all!


    ra looked at me, tentatively asking, "Mrs. Dawson, you''re not really thinking of saving that child, are


    you?"


    "The child is innocent, just like you were when you were young. Do you think you were at fault? It was


    your father who made the mistake, but Zora took out her anger on you, ruining your life. Is that fair?" I


    countered her question.


    My counter-question worked. ra was clearly stunned but didn¡¯t respond.N?velDrama.Org content.


    "You were an innocent bystander who suffered from the cmity. What about Evan? He''s still so small.


    He doesn''t know anything. His mother has no shame, but is that his fault?"


    She smiled silently.


    "ra, tell me where he is," I asked her earnestly. "I don''t believe your sister would treat him well! You


    know Zora is crazy. We should save Evan." I tried to lower my voice, negotiating with ra, so she


    wouldn¡¯t think I was arrogant. I was afraid it would trigger her deep-seated darkness. And I knew very


    well that I couldn''t get involved directly. If I were to inform the police, it wouldplicate things too


    much.


    ra''s eyes darkened as she asked me indifferently, "Mrs. Dawson, don''t you really hate these


    people? They took your things, slept with your husband, and stole yourpany. Haven''t you ever


    thought of getting back at them?"


    ra''s words stabbed at my heart.


    As we locked eyes, ra added, "Don''t you really care that Jan ignores your existence? Don''t you


    really want to take back what belongs to you?"


    My eyes narrowed, and my heart skipped a beat. ra''s words were too clear. So clear that I could


    sense the reason for hering to talk to me about the child.


    What was her purpose? To make me expose Zora? Or to test my limits? But why would she want to


    test my limits?


    I collected myself and took over her topic, "I do. Medsafe Liyah Inc. is my empire. Of course, I won''t


    just stand by and watch someone take it." I said it with certainty. However, the next second, I lowered


    my tone, "But honestly, it''s not my everything. Right now, I don''t want my children to get hurt. I just want


    to minimize the damage!"


    ra looked at me, her eyes filled withplex emotions.


    "In other words, between Medsafe Liyah Inc. and my children, thetter is more important to me. As for


    Medsafe Liyah Inc.¡­ As long as I want to, I can get everything back!" I said calmly, but my heart was in


    turmoil.


    ra suddenly stood up, saying indifferently, "I should go, "


    "ra!" I called out. After a moment of thought, I said word by word, "You''re not like Zora!"


    She turned around, looking at me seriously, "Mrs. Dawson, you have a good heart, but that doesn''t


    always lead to good oues!" With that, she turned around without hesitation and walked away,


    leaving without looking back, as if she had found some answer and was relieved.


    I slowly stood up pondering over the words she had just left behind. What on earth did she mean?

 Chapter 204

    Chapter 204


    As I was still lost in thought over what ra meant by dropping that line, Hannah briskly walked


    towards me with her phone in hand. She cast a hesitant nce in my direction before uttering a


    sentence that sent shockwaves through me. "Ms. Wilburn, Marissa''s in trouble!"


    Shaken from my deep stupor, I looked at Hannah, asking incredulously, "Who?"


    Hannah''s eyes darkened slightly as she reiterated, "Marissa!" She then handed me her phone,


    delivering the shocking news, "Someone just posted a video online. Marissa jumped off a building!"


    "What?" I snatched the phone from Hannah''s hands, looking at the screen.


    It was undoubtedly Marissa''s upscale neighborhood. shing police sirens and an ambnce were


    visible, and medical personnel were bustling about.


    The video was shaky, likely taken by a resident from a nearby high-rise building, and the background


    was filled with the chatter of onlookers.


    As the camera panned around, I saw groups of people crowding balconies, the windows of the entire


    row of buildings wide open. It seemed it hadn''t been going on for long, and was the topic of heated


    discussion.


    I scrolled down a bit, the posts below were all about this event as well, with so many people buzzing


    about.


    "Good Lord, isn''t that the woman who lost her child?"


    "God Almighty, she really jumped. I saw it with my own eyes!" a voice echoed with an eerie excitement.


    "That''s just tragic! Her child is still missing and she jumped?" someone questioned.


    "She was probably forced to it. Losing her child was already devastating enough, but then she was


    taken away by the police when she went to reim her child. Who could bear that?"


    "I heard it''s gruesome. Her body shattered on impact. How are we supposed to leave our homes now?


    I''m too scared to even take a nightly stroll." someoneined.


    "People should show some mercy. Being a mistress is not a death sentence. This is practically driving


    someone to their death." A loud woman was arguing her point, rallying the crowd. Her words were met


    with agreement. "Exactly, that wife was too domineering. Regardless if she''s the one who took the


    child, she called the police when Marissa went to plead for her child back. That''s just too much."


    "I heard the wife has been ill for years, basically a vegetable. It''s understandable for a man to get the


    other woman to meet his needs, isn''t it?"


    "Indeed!" the crowd echoed.


    "This mistress was pitiful. Look at the situation now. Her man¡¯s parents have washed their hands off


    her. Who could swallow such a bitter pill? No wonder she jumped. Let''s see how they exin this."


    Upon hearing these words, I couldn''t help but tremble. The very people who had initially condemned


    Marissa were now bashing me. I started to question where justice trulyy.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    "If it were me, I''d haunt that woman as a vengeful spirit. Just because she''s the wife, she thinks she''s


    all that..."


    I handed the phone back to Hannah, a myriad of emotions welling up inside me. I hadn''t anticipated the


    ripple effect of Marissa''s suicide. The spectators were now directing their fury towards me, pinning me


    as the culprit behind Marissa''s fatal plunge.


    Faced with their relentless assault, I felt an inexplicable sense of helplessness, even doubting the


    meaning of my life.


    "Why would she jump?" I mumbled, "Do you believe a strong-willed person like her wouldmit


    suicide?"


    Suddenly, a bitter taste flooded my throat, a searing heat rushed up from my chest, and my vision


    started to blur.


    Hannah instantly noticed my distress and rushed over to support me, "Ms. Wilburn, are you alright?"


    I nodded, sinking onto the couch. My mind was all about Marissa, sitting on her knees in front of the


    gate in the afternoon, howling. Her provocative gaze as she was taken away by the police was etched


    into my memory.


    She still had the energy to challenge me, so how could she have jumped?


    What could have possibly happened in the 5-6 hours since she left here?


    "Hannah!" I called out, instructing her, "Call Logan. Find out what happened after Marissa left."

 Chapter 205

    Chapter 205


    Hearing my instructions, Hannah immediately grabbed the phone and dialed the number.


    As I suspected, she knew Logan.


    Ever since Hannah arrived, she¡¯s been calling me ¡®Ms. Wilburn¡¯, which I foundforting.


    I understood perfectly the intentions of Ronan cing Hannah by my side. This way, he could check on


    my condition at all times.


    Hannah referring to me as Ms. Wilburn subtly indicated that she was on my side.


    However, she was still new to me and didn''t know me well yet.


    The state of my health was like a car long overdue for an overhaul, unable to withstand the slightest


    wear and tear. It was not that I was not strong enough inside, but that my bodily functions didn''t allow it.


    Like now, even though I had mentally prepared for the worst, the sight of those ignorantizens


    hurling abuses at me made my heart race uncontrobly.


    I could fully understand the impulse to do something irreversible out of anger. But I was certain that


    Marissa''s death was not a result of an impulse.


    After hanging up the phone, Hannah returned to me, scrutinizing my face, and carefully asked, "Ms.


    Wilburn, are you alright?"


    "I''m fine," I reassured Hannah, exining, "It''s just my health acting up."


    She poured me a ss of water and handed it to me, "She died on the spot."


    I nodded, "Falling from such a height, Marissa''s survival was impossible. But what I want to know the


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    details."


    "Logan will have some information soon," Hannahforted me, "Try not to think too much."


    Just as I was about to voice my thoughts, the phone rang. I picked it up and saw it was from Ronan.


    Without avoiding Hannah, I answered the phone. Ronan''s steady voice came through. "Are you okay?"


    I knew he was referring to Marissa¡¯s suicide, worried it might have affected me.


    "I''m fine, but I feel something fishy about this. Marissa came to me at noon to cause a scene, clearly


    ying the victim. If she wanted to make a scene, she wouldn''tmit suicide," I stated confidently.


    "Stay calm no matter how the situation unfolds. Remember, her death has nothing to do with you."


    "Alright," I responded, feeling heavy-hearted.


    It felt like an invisible hand manipting everything from behind, gripping my neck tightly and making it


    hard for me to breathe!


    "This is indeed not as simple and clear-cut. So, don''t pay attention to those voices. Let them make a


    scene so that someone will be pleased with it. Marissa''s death is just someone wanting to disturb you.


    The louder the noise, the clearer the truth will be," Ronan''s words were like a wake-up call. I instantly


    understood what he had repeatedly urged me to do when I stepped off the ne; he told me to keep


    calm no matter what happened.


    Indeed, only when the situation was used to suppress me, would the puppeteer reveal their smug


    smile.


    "I understand, don''t worry!"


    He reminded me of a few more things, and then hung up the phone.


    While I was on the phone with Ronan, Hannah received a call too. After seeing me hang up, she came


    over and said, "That was Logan. The preliminary investigation shows that Marissa fell from the 24th-


    floor rooftop. The security footage suggests that she went up to the rooftop by herself via the elevator,


    and nothing unusual was found in the room. We''ll have to wait for the coroner''s findings for any other


    factors."


    "Let''s wait then. I''m sure there''s more to this. I don¡¯t believe that someone who has been provoking me


    would jump off a building."


    "This family sure is peculiar, like they''re under some curse." Just as Hannah finished her sentence, a


    deafening thud startled me...

 Chapter 206

    Chapter 206


    The explosive sound was deafening, as if the earth itself was shaking. I watched in horror as the entire


    floor-to-ceiling window near the front door of my house copsed, scattering shards of ss all over the


    foyer.


    The noise was so loud that it left my ears ringing, and it took me a while to process what had just


    happened.


    Hannah''s first reaction was to grab me and swiftly move us out of the living room, up to the second


    floor. I was practically tucked under her arm as she carried me up the stairs.


    She settled me in a windowless sitting room upstairs and instructed sternly, "Don¡¯t move!" With that,


    she turned on her heel and swiftly ran back downstairs.


    I huddled in the small sitting room upstairs, shivering. The sudden explosion had unnerved me, my


    heart pounding so hard that I felt unbearable, causing a dull ache that made it hard to breathe.


    Soon, Hannah was back by my side, assessing my condition. "Ms. Wilburn, are you alright?"


    I nodded weakly with my hand pressing over my heart.


    Hannah reported, "I''ve called the police. Don''t worry. Rx, I''m here. Trust me!"


    Her face was serious as sheforted me, and I just nodded, too shocked to speak.


    Honestly, I wasn''t scared. I was just caught off guard. However, my heart was heavy. I couldn''t


    understand why my world had suddenly turned upside down. It wasplete chaos!


    Who was after me, and what did they want?


    Deep down, I had a feeling that even Jan was just a pawn in this game. And my so-called ns


    were as transparent as a ss. There was no element of surprise.


    Marissa''s child was missing, Marissa was dead, and the floor-to-ceiling window near the front door of


    my house copsed... Were all these urrences meant to serve as a warning to me??


    Suddenly, I remembered something. I had forgotten to tell Ronan that Jan had taken the child.


    I grabbed Hannah and blurted out, "Quick...tell Ro... Tell Mr. Richardson to track Zora and find the


    child!"


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    I couldn''t bear the thought of anything happening to that child after Marissa''s death.


    Hannah made a call to Ronan immediately, delivering my message and telling him about the attack,


    although no attackers were found.


    Upon hearing this, Ronan asked about my situation and Hannah reported honestly, but he hung up


    without asking to speak to me.


    Soon, the police arrived, quite a number of them, and my house was swarming with officers.


    I had calmed down a little, and Hannah was by my side, exining the situation to the police.


    After the police had inspected the scene, Jan came rushing in, headed straight to me, and in front of


    everyone, pulled me into his arms. "Allie, don''t be scared. I''m here, don''t be scared!"


    His words would have made me break down in tears and bawl in his arms, feeling helpless, if this were


    the past. But now, I found it amusing. His acting was Oscar-worthy.


    I wanted to push him away, but on second thought, some roles needed to be yed.


    "Don''t be scared!" Jan held me tightly, turning to the officer in charge, his voice filled with


    displeasure, "What happened here? Can we get an exnation? My wife wasn''t in the best of health


    and now, she''s attacked even at home. What kind of policing is this?"


    "Mr. Dawson, we apologize! We cannot yet determine who is responsible, but rest assured, we will get


    to the bottom of this!"


    "This is outrageous! Our lives have been severely disrupted. My wife was supposed to be recuperating


    in Silverdale City, but weplied with your request to return. Now this happened. When can we get a


    definitive answer instead of vague reassurances?"


    Then he pointed at the property manager. "And you! Shouldn''t you take responsibility for this? The


    main gate of themunity is our first line of defense. Have you managed to secure it?"


    Jan''s words reminded me of something. I looked at the property manager who was nodding and


    scraping. "I apologize for our negligence! The officers are reviewing the security footage. We won''t let


    any suspicious person get away!"


    "Suspicious person?" I retorted, "Who, exactly, qualifies as a ''suspicious person''?"

 Chapter 207

    Chapter 207


    The property manager heard my words and secretly nced at the officer in charge. Seeing that his


    attention was elsewhere, he quickly averted his gaze.


    His smile towards me was clearly perfunctory. "Ma''am, we have our own set of criteria. Tonight''s


    incident was unforeseen, something nobody would want to happen. We''ve been running this


    incident are multifaceted, and everyone should introspect. Of course... there may have beenpses on


    our part."


    I responded with an indifferent smile. "So, you''re implying that we brought this upon ourselves. All the


    strangers that entered from noon until now are our fault, and have nothing to do with property


    management. Is that correct?"


    I intentionally used a rhetorical tone, but the manager didn¡¯t bother to exin and pretended to be very


    busy, following the officer in charge away.


    Jan wanted to argue, but I held him back, shaking my head. In my mind, I vowed to make the


    manager pay one day for his response today.


    By the time everyone finished their work, it waste at night. Despite the police''s instructions to keep


    the news under wraps, pictures and details of the attack on my house had been posted online.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Public opinion was a flurry ofments, ranging from praise, to curses, to schadenfreude. Some even


    said that a broken window was getting off lightly for mepared to a lost life.


    That night, Jan didn''t leave, and I could clearly feel his good mood. He took care of me diligently, not


    moving an inch, sticking to me like a buzzing fly.


    I was genuinely tired and coupled with the shock, I had a series of nightmares. By dawn, I sumbed


    to a fever.


    The sudden high fever made me somewhat delirious. In my daze, I seemed to see a police car with


    sirens ring, taking me away. I struggled and shouted that I hadn''t taken the child, that it wasn''t me,


    and they should let me go and save the child. But no one listened to my pleas. I was restrained. I


    shouted in despair, as I watched someone pour drugs into a bowl and try to force me to take it.


    The room was filled withughing faces, theirughter extremely eerie.


    I screamed in fear and suddenly opened my eyes.


    "Ms. Wilburn, wake up!" A gentle voice called in my ear.


    "Allie!"


    I struggled to focus my gaze, calming my racing heart. The room was brightly lit, and the strong smell


    of disinfectant filled my nose, which was extremely off-putting to me.


    I squinted at the people around me: there was Catherine, Gevena, and Janice.


    "How did I get here?" My voice was dry and hoarse.


    "You had a high fever in the middle of the night and Mr. Dawson brought you straight to the hospital,"


    Hannah, who was next to me, exined. "Would you like some water?"


    I nodded. "Yes."


    Hannah quickly brought a cup of water.


    I was really thirsty, and after gulping it down, the cool liquid soothed my parched throat, providing


    much-needed relief.


    I nced around the room and asked softly, "Where''s Jan?"


    Hannah looked at me and answered, "He just left for the office. Today is thest day of the overseas


    negotiations, the signing ceremony."


    I was surprised and turned to Gevena, "Is he really signing the contract?"


    Gevena nodded. "Everything was ready this morning! Your illness has conveniently provided him with


    an opportunity to make a public statement, which he has utilized perfectly!"


    Confused, I looked at Gevena, doubting her words.


    Hannah chuckled, "Ms. Wilburn, in the few hours you were ill, Mr. Dawson has been very busy. He


    called an ambnce to bring you to the hospital and held an impromptu press conference here,


    eloquently criticizing those spreading false rumors online. He dered that he wouldn''t tolerate nder


    and would use thew to protect the dignity of both of you."


    "The spectacle he created was quite something!" Catherine snorted. "I''ve realized that Jan is a


    natural showman. If we didn''t know better, we''d think he really cared about you!"


    After hearing their words, I scoffed, "What a bloody actor!"


    Then, I turned to Hannah, anxiously asking, "Any news about the child?"

 Chapter 208

    Chapter 208


    Hannah frowned a bit when she saw me asking about the child as she slowly shook her head. "We


    haven''t found a trace of the child. Zora''s acting normal and hasn''t shown any signs of being involved.


    She hasn''t even left her ce."


    "That doesn''t make sense." I muttered in disbelief, "I''m sure Zora took the child. I trust ra on this.


    What about Maddox? If Zora didn''t do it, someone must have done it for her, right? Who''s keeping an


    eye on Maddox?"


    "Logan''s been keeping tabs on Zora. She hasn''t had any contact with the outside world." Hannah


    looked at me. "You need to rx a bit. Want something to eat?"


    I ignored Hannah''s question, worriedly saying, "It''s been days, that child..."


    "You seem to have your energy back!" My words were interrupted by someone, and we all turned to


    look at the door. It was Logan, swaggering in with his usual carefree demeanor.


    I sat up quickly, still feeling a bit dizzy from the fever. My body was weak and sore.


    "Logan, tell me, why haven''t you found the child?" I asked, a bit impatient.


    Ever since I heard about Marissa''s death, I''ve been particrly concerned about Evan. Maybe it was


    because I was overflowing withpassion, but the child was innocent after all.


    "We have no leads. ording to ra, we''ve reviewed the surveince footage in the summer camp,


    but we found nothing. We didn''t even see the car ra mentioned." Loganzily sat in a chair beside


    my bed, then turned to the rest of the group, "Ladies, have a seat!"


    Catherine snorted in discontent, "Huh... No problem! I see no hesitation when you sat down!"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "I haven''t slept in days, Cathy, cut me some ck, yeah?" Logan smirked at Catherine, "Can you get


    me something to eat?"


    Catherine scoffed dismissively, "As if! You think I''m your maid or something? Bossing me around!"


    "Of course not! I treat you like my woman, otherwise, why else would I order you around?" Logan


    retorted, "Cathy, if I starve to death, won''t you feel heartbroken?"


    Catherine''s face inexplicably blushed. She spat out, "Who''s your woman? Stop spouting nonsense! I''ll


    tear your mouth off!"


    "Wait till I finish eating!" Logan continued, teasingly, "Hurry up!"


    We all looked at Catherine, who was speechless and staring at us all wide-eyed, supposedly feeling


    like she couldn''t back out.


    "Why... Why are you all looking at me? Don''t listen to his nonsense!" Catherine tried to cover up her


    embarrassment.


    "Go on, I¡¯ll help you fight him when youe back!" I urged Catherine.


    She red at Logan, quickly turned around, and walked out, pretending to grind her teeth in anger.


    I turned to Logan, full of doubts. "ra wouldn''t lie! She said the child was taken by Zora, so how could


    there be no trace?"


    "ra..." Logan dragged out the sentence, pondering, but didn''t continue.


    "You mean she''s misleading us?" I looked at Logan incredulously, feeling somewhat upset.


    Logan asked again about what ra had told me, and I repeated everything in detail.


    "If she was deliberately misleading us, that indicates one more thing!" Logan looked at me.


    "What?" I asked, getting a bad feeling.


    "She was testing you!" Logan cut to the chase, "That''s why we didn''t touch Zora!"


    Logan''s theory made me feel frustrated. I cursed inwardly at the Rhylee sisters. None of them were


    simple.


    "I think Mr. Monahan''s assumption is quite possible!" Geneva chimed in, "From what you''ve narrated,


    the phrase she usedter was quite telling, ''You have a good heart, but that doesn''t necessarily mean


    you''re doing good.'' What do you think she meant?"


    "I didn''t understand that phrase at the time. It was loaded." I had to admit, "No matter how I interpret it,


    it feels like she hates me."


    "That''s understandable. Consider this, she must know you knew about Jan''s disease, yet you didn''t


    tell her, leading her to get it. How could she not hate you?" Janice was brutally honest. "It''s clear, she''s


    telling you to stop ying the good guy!"

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    Chapter 209


    I huffed derisively. "I would have warned her if she had given me the chance. Before I could get back to


    her, she was all over him like white on rice. How was I supposed to say?"


    Gevena''s eyes were full of contempt. "She made her bed and now she has to lie in it. The first thing


    she did was to seduce your husband aftering to your house to be a nanny. How did she have the


    audacity to act so high and mighty? In my opinion, those two sisters are both bad news. They got what


    they deserved."


    "If we go by that logic, ra''s story does seem a bit fishy," I muttered. "You said she was testing me.


    What was she trying to find out?"


    "She was testing your trust in her and seeing if you knew about Jan''s dark side," Logan replied,


    leaning back in his chair. "We can''t touch Zora for now. Let ra have her moment."


    "I have this feeling that Marissa''s sob story was orchestrated," I added. "But I can''t figure out who''s


    pulling the strings. Was it the same person who had her killed? Jerome?"


    Janice chimed in, "You have a point. I saw the whole thing. When Marissa came to your house, the


    door was wide open. But instead of walking in, she was banging on the door. It was clear she was


    putting on a show when she kneeled down only after spotting the paparazzi. If she really wanted her


    child, wouldn''t she have barged in?"


    "Jan''s parents were at my house at the time, too. They came for the same reason, to demand the


    child!" I added.


    "What a strange family," Gevena remarked.


    "Why didn''t I think of that? If Marissa was putting on a show, it meant she knew the child was safe.


    Otherwise, what was her act for?" Gevena asked everyone.


    "Exactly!" Janice nodded in agreement.


    I also agreed.


    "Even as the police were taking her away, she was still taunting me," I fumed. "Then just a few hours


    "There definitely is," Logan affirmed.


    "What do you mean?" I asked, startled. Apparently, his words were indicative of an updated clue.


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "She had hallucinogens in her system."


    "Hallucinogens?"


    Indeed, Logan confirmed this grim fact and then pulled out his phone, showing me something.


    Everyone huddled around to see.


    Taking the phone, Gevena, Janice, and Hannah all leaned in to look at the screen.


    On the screen was a surveince video of Marissa just before she died.


    She was shown wearing loose pajamas, emotionless as she exited her apartment and entered the


    elevator. Nothing seemed amiss from her face.


    The elevator was going up. When the door opened, she hesitated for a moment, as though getting her


    direction, before stepping out. She paused in the elevator doorway for a couple of seconds before


    heading towards a door.


    "The door to the roof!" Janice gasped.


    Marissa didn''t stop in her tracks in the footage. She walked, or rather floated, towards the door, her


    pajama bottoms fluttering in the wind as she pushed the door open to the rooftop.


    The video ended there, and Logan gestured for me to continue.


    I gave him a quick nce before clicking on the next video link. The video stuttered a bit before


    resuming.


    This footage was darker.


    It was an exterior shot, and the rooftop was not well illuminated. But the ambient light from the


    surrounding buildings was enough to make out what was going on.


    The moment Marissa stepped onto the rooftop, she headed straight for the edge without any hesitation.


    It looked more like she was floating rather than walking.


    "Good grief! She looks like she doesn''t know what she¡¯s doing!" Gevena was visibly unsettled.


    "Completely unaware of the danger!"


    "Exactly. There''s no sign of hesitation," I agreed.


    "It''s like she had no fear at all!" Janice said, transfixed by the video.


    "Look!" Hannah pointed out.

 Chapter 210

    Chapter 210


    We all fell silent, our eyes glued to the screen.


    On the screen, Marissa walked to the edge of the rooftop, stopped by the railing.


    She paused and looked back, her expression shifting slightly.


    "What''s she looking at?" Janice eximed.


    "I don''t think she¡¯s looking," I shook my head, noting Marissa''s nce back.


    I quickly paused the video, zooming in on her face. A faint smile graced her beautiful features. For a


    moment, I felt as if she was looking through the screen at me, smirking with a wicked delight.


    My heart raced, an involuntary shiver of dread ran down my spine.


    The next second, I resumed the video. Marissa had already climbed over the railing.


    Standing at the edge of the rooftop under the dim light, her white nightgown stood out sharply. Without


    hesitation, she stepped forward, arms spread wide.


    My hand instinctively shook in response.


    Yes, she stepped forward, walking, instead of jumping, into the void as if it was solid ground. The white


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    figure plummeted downwards, disappearing from the screen.


    "Holy moly..." Janice gasped.


    My heart pounded as the figure vanished from the screen.


    To be honest, I hated Marissa to the point that every cell in my body screamed at me to tear her apart.


    Yet, seeing her disappear silently, knowing she was gone, I felt an odd mix of emotions. Was it relief?


    Regret? Or frustration that I couldn''t punish her properly? Regardless, it left a bitter taste in my mouth.


    I rewound the video, pausing on her final smirk.


    Janice quickly looked away, warning me, "Stop watching, you''ll have nightmares! This is too creepy!"


    I internally scoffed. I''ve had my share of nightmares already. The creepiest part wasn''t Marissa''s smirk.


    Her wicked smile made me wonder, was she under the influence of a hallucinogen? She seemed too


    lucid for that.


    Logan took my phone, nced at the paused screen, and mumbled, "Actually, what baffles me is, how


    the hallucinogens got in her system?"


    "What do you mean?" I asked, looking at Logan in disbelief.


    Logan exined, "Because, from the time the police took her from your house to her death was 5


    hours and 45 minutes. It took 25 minutes for the police car to reach the station, and less than 10


    minutes to put her in the interview room. She was left alone for an hour and 20 minutes."


    "Why was she left alone?" I asked.


    "The police hoped to get some information from her, so they watched her covertly," Logan exined.


    Images from the TV show came to my mind with people being locked in and the police outside


    watching every move of the people inside through the big ss.


    I nodded, understanding.


    "Then an officer talked to her for 45 minutes. After that, she was driven home and never left her


    apartment again.


    No one visited her during that time. No phone calls. No messages. Then you saw what happened on


    the surveince footage. She just walked off the roof. Where did the drugse from?" Logan spread


    his hands.


    We all exchanged nces.


    "What if she did it herself?" I guessed, looking over at Logan.


    Logan shook his head, "Unlikely. No one faces their death that calmly. Someone definitely drugged


    her."


    We all fell silent, a chill running down our spines. Who could have drugged Marissa?

 Chapter 211

    Chapter 211


    I had a sudden thought and turned to Logan. "Hey! Logan, you should start by investigating our


    property manager! I have a feeling he isn''t as innocent as he seems. Maybe he''s our breakthrough?¡±


    Logan raised his eyebrows. "Already on it!¡±


    Just then, Catherine walked in with bags of food, plopping it all onto the table. She pointed at Logan.


    ¡°I''m telling you, if Allie had eaten, I wouldn''t have gotten this for you!¡±


    I had to chuckle; Catherine was still holding a grudge. We''d all forgotten about her buying breakfast for


    Logan, so why bring it up again?


    "Sure, sure!¡± Logan nodded vigorously. ¡°I believe you. You only bought it for Allie.¡±


    As he talked, he grabbed a bag and turned to me. ¡°Allie, thanks for buying me breakfast!¡±


    ¡°Hey, you¡­¡± Catherine was left speechless.


    Logan already had a bagel in his hand, shoveling it into his mouth, looking really hungry.


    We allughed. Catherine quickly picked a fancy-looking box and handed it to me, showing her


    concern, "Allie, I got this soup especially for you! Your favorite m chowder!¡±


    I gave her a thumbs up, and then turned to Janice and Gevena. ¡°Have you two eaten?¡±


    Janice quickly replied, ¡°We ate in Jta''s hospital room beforeing over!¡±


    ¡°Oh, I didn''t get a chance to ask, how''s Jta doing?¡± I asked, taking the spoon Hannah handed me.


    ¡°It''s too early to tell, but she has shown signs of waking up. Her fingers moved!¡± Janice''s face lit up at


    this.


    ¡°That''s great news!¡± I said happily. ¡°It''s wonderful she''s waking up! Blessings to her!¡±


    ¡°Isn''t it strange? As soon as we mentioned Jta might be waking up, Irving was like a different


    person, looking so concerned!¡± Gevena added, ¡°As soon as he heard the news, he rushed to the


    hospital and hasn''t left her side since then. He''s not even working!¡±


    Janice scoffed, ¡°He''s sick!¡±


    ¡°If you ask me, it might not be sickness. Maybe he''s just feeling guilty!¡± Catherine chimed in. ¡°All these


    years, he was the one who cheated, who kept a mistress, and who wanted a divorce. Then his wife


    was in an ident and he''s ying the good guy, giving money and gifts. What was he doing before?


    Now she''s waking up, and he''s acting... I don''t believe for a second he''s had a change of heart.¡±


    We all fell silent at Catherine''s words.


    Logan, still munching away, joined in. ¡°Could be. Cathy here has a knack for the truth. Janice, why


    don''t you look into the cause of Jta''s ident? Might be more to it than meets the eye. We''re all


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    friends here, so I can give you a discount. I''ve seen a lot of these cases. What do you think? Want to


    investigate?¡±


    Janice looked stunned.


    ¡°Get out of here! What are you stirring up? Desperate for money?¡± Catherine smacked Logan''s head.


    ¡°You really will do anything for a buck!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Monahan, can you really look into something that happened years ago?¡± Janice asked hopefully.


    ¡°Why not give it a shot? No charge if I can''t find anything!¡± Logan said with a cheeky grin, continuing to


    wolf down his food.


    ¡°You sound like a fortune teller. What do you mean, ''no charge if I can''t find anything''? Are you trying to


    get money from us?¡± Catherine retorted.


    I rolled my eyes, ¡°There you go again!¡±


    Logan, mouth full of food, shot a nce at Catherine. ¡°Would you even want a fortune teller? If I got


    some money by that, it¡¯s all yours if you want. Isn''t that a sweet deal?¡±

 Chapter 212

    Chapter 212


    I listened as Logan spoke, my expression unchanged as I nced at Catherine. She was looking at


    Logan with aplex expression. Logan''s mouth was busy with his food, but his eyes were locked on


    Catherine''s face.


    Catherine, feeling rather ufortable under his gaze, retorted, "What are you looking at? I didn''t


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    want your money!"


    I almost burst outughing. What was meant to be a casual conversation was now filled with underlying


    meanings. These two were quite a pair! Catherine was exceptionally smart, but when it came to love,


    she was a clueless idiot.


    At the same time, Janice seemed incredibly serious, as if she was being guided through a maze by a


    wise sage. She asked Logan, "Mr. Monahan, you''re serious, aren''t you?"


    "Uh-huh," Logan nodded, breaking his gaze from Catherine. "Absolutely serious."


    Janice moved closer to Logan. "I really wouldn''t know where to start without you telling me. For all


    these years, something didn''t feel right. It''s like something was off. Jta had been quarrelling with


    Irving for several years before her car ident. He openly kept a mistress, and Jta silently


    endured it for years. But just when she agreed to divorce, the ident happened."


    "There are no such things as coincidences!" Catherine chimed in.


    Janice''s expression was grave as she recalled a memory. "On the night of her ident, Jta called


    me. She said she had something for me to keep safe for her, and she was on her way to give it to me.


    But all I got was the news of the ident.


    When I rushed to the hospital, she never woke up. I always felt that what she wanted me to keep safe


    was not something ordinary."


    "What exactly is it?" Geneva inquired.


    I looked at Janice. "Did you get it?"


    Janice shook her head, disappointment written all over her face. "I searched her car and her bag, but I


    couldn''t find it."


    We all felt a bit sorry to hear that too.


    Janice continued, "After the ident, Irving asked me if Jta had contacted me before the ident.


    I denied it. Because I felt something was off about his question. Why would he think Jta contacted


    me? What does it have to do with him? But I suddenly felt that if he asked, it must have something to


    do with him. So, this has been weighing on my heart for many years. I always felt it was suspicious."


    Logan put down his fork, pulled out a napkin, and casually wiped his mouth. He looked at Janice.


    "Dear, anything''s possible. If something feels wrong, gather evidence to support your feelings."


    He then pointed to me. "Look, if Aaliyah wasn''t brave and careful enough to act, we might all be at her


    funeral! Go back, gather your thoughts, and tell me what you suspect." Logan''s expression was calm,


    as if this was the natural course of action, and it didn''t seem to pose any challenge to him.


    "Are you serious?" Catherine asked Logan.


    "Or what?" Logan shrugged. "Didn''t you hear what she said? This matter has been bothering her for


    many years. Why not find a way to get rid of this burden? Isn''t it tiring to keep it in?"


    Janice''s face was filled with confusion. She sighed deeply, "It is tiring. Mr. Monahan is right. This matter


    has be my burden. It made me bitter and sarcastic. Every time I see Irving or even think about


    him, or even see my niece Nettie, I lose control. It''s be an instinct for me to go crazy."


    Janice was right. She did give that impression to people. Before I got close to them, to be honest, I


    didn''t really like her. She always spoke offensively, which made me ufortable. Especially when it


    came to Irving''s mistress, every word she spoke was like a knife, stabbing at her mercilessly.


    It seems that everything does happen for a reason.


    Janice continued to analyze herself, her voice hoarse,pletely devoid of her previous arrogance


    and domineering attitude. She revealed her true gentle nature, her voice choking back a sob. "I''m


    angry, irritable, wanting to vent, wanting to tear them apart, but I have no evidence, no strength to


    confront them, which makes them criticize me, calling me bitter and crazy! Jta has been bedridden


    for years, and I''ve suffered for years. She''s still alive. Perhaps if she died, I might be able to forget, to


    be relieved, but she seems to have a strong will to live, so, I¡­"

 Chapter 213

    Chapter 213


    Janice looked at Logan with tear-filled eyes, appearing utterly helpless. It was as though Logan had


    suddenly be her beacon of hope.


    Logan nodded, indicating his understanding.


    I noticed that Logan was quite thedies man. Regardless of how harshly any woman addressed him,


    he always returned their bitterness with kindness, calling them affectionate terms like ''dear''.


    Janice collected herself and continued, "Because of this whole mess, I''ve be theughing stock of


    the town. They all look at me like I''m some sort of fool. Sure, in front of Olivia, I alwayse out on


    top. But behind my back, I know what they''re saying about me."


    "They''re just jealous because they can''t bring you down!" Catherine chimed in, hitting the nail on the


    head.


    Janice let out augh at this, but tears also welled up in her eyes. "My sister and I, we''ve be a


    joke!"


    "Just hang in there!" Logan said calmly. His unppable demeanor gave everyone a sense of security.


    "Let them have theirugh now. We''ll shut them up with the facts soon enough."


    Logan''s words made me think of my current predicament. I was surrounded on all sides, but I had to


    "The priority now is to find the child. No matter how thoroughly we investigate your situation, we''ll have


    to wait until your sister wakes up to take the next step. We''ve waited this long, so we can wait a little


    longer." Logan''s attitude was incredibly flexible, much like his dexterity in handling any situation.


    Just as Catherine was about to interject, Logan stopped her and turned to Janice with a serious look.


    "But Janice, a word of caution. Before your sister wakes up, it''d be best not to leave her alone. Have a


    couple of trusted, sharp-minded people with her at all times. Some idents can be quite unexpected."


    Janice was stunned by Logan''s words. She stood there, frozen, and then suddenly turned and stormed


    out of the room, leaving everyone else in shock.


    Gevena quickly grabbed her bag and said as she rushed out, "Mr. Monahan, thanks for the heads up!


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    Allie, I''m going to go check on her. We can''t afford to take any chances with her health!"


    I nodded quickly. "Go on, just don''t let her get too worked up!"


    Gevena gave me an ''ok'' sign and darted after Janice.


    Catherine sighed and shook her head, looking appreciatively at Logan. "Seems like your warning was


    necessary after all."


    A smug look crossed Logan''s face. "See, I''m still useful, aren''t I?"


    "Definitely!" Catherine affirmed before turning to me and adding, "Indeed, when we left, the nurse was


    the only one there. Irving has been acting weirdtely. When things seem off, there''s usually a reason. I


    bet there''s something going on."


    I pushed away the small table in front of me and leaned back. "There might indeed be some secrets


    they''re trying to hide. People these days..." I shook my head in disbelief. "If I hadn''t experienced all of


    this firsthand, I wouldn''t believe such dark, bizarre things could happen. But now, I can''t help but


    believe."


    Catherine let out a wail. "God... I''m beginning to question everything! Can I even believe in love


    anymore? Thank goodness I''ve stayed clear-headed!"


    "That''s not being clear-headed!" Logan said, looking at Catherine, who had a skeptical look on her


    face.


    "Then what is it?" Catherine asked, confused.


    I thought to myself, how could Catherine''s intelligence fail her at a time like this?


    Sure enough, Logan said with a mock-serious face, "It''s called being forgotten. With Cathy''s


    intelligence..."


    Catherine seemed to realize that something was off and interrupted Logan, ¡°Logan, do you know me


    that well?¡±


    "No, I haven''t finished yet!" Logan said, looking innocently at Catherine who feigned annoyance.


    Catherine waited for him to continue.


    Logan said with a straight face, "I just mean that with Cathy''s intelligence, no one would dare deceive


    her."


    Catherine''s expression immediately brightened, but before she could reply, Logan added, "It''s too easy


    to slip up!"


    I couldn''t help butugh at this point, spitting out my drink. "Hahaha..."


    The next moment, Logan quickly made his escape.


    Hannah and I were left in stitches while Catherine, gritting her teeth, chased after Logan to the door.


    "You better hope I never see you again, Logan Monahan!"

 Chapter 214

    Chapter 214


    After a goodugh, I instructed Hannah, "Let''s check out and head home."


    Hannah looked at me with a hint of worry. "Are you sure you''re okay, Ms. Wilburn?"


    "It''s just a fever. I''m not that fragile! I know my own body. I was just too exhausted yesterday, and too


    many unexpected things happened. I just couldn''t digest it all at once. Mostly, it''s my heart that''s not


    holding up. This ce is a mess, nothing like home!" I rambled on to Hannah. "Besides, we''ve got


    workersing to install the windows at home. We can''t just leave it like that. It''ll be the talk of the


    town."


    Hannah nced at Catherine, as if seeking her opinion.


    Catherine nodded. "Let''s get discharged then! We''ll all go back to your ceter. No big deal!"


    Suddenly, she turned to me, "Oh, since we''re at the hospital, I should apany you to get a thorough


    check-up from Dr. Dailey. Did he ask you toe back for a follow-up?"


    I shook my head. "Ipletely forgot about that!"


    "You! You don''t take your health seriously enough!" Catherine grumbled. Then, she instructed Hannah,


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Go handle the discharge procedures. I''ll take Allie for the check-up. Join us when you''re done."


    "Alright!" Hannah agreed and turned to me, "Ms. Wilburn, if you not feeling well, don''t hold it together."


    I nodded, and she hurried off.


    Catherine immediately contacted Dr. Dailey, and we went to his office together.


    He was a bit surprised to see me. "You look much better, and yourplexion has improved. This is


    more like you. We''ll see how your vitals are, and consider changing your medication."


    He asked very detailed questions, and I exined my recent condition and symptoms to him


    thoroughly.


    "Don''t rush. Everything takes time. You''re doing very well! I didn''t expect you to recover this quickly!"


    Heforted me after hearing my exnation, "It seems that you''ve got a strong constitution."


    Then, he personally took me and Catherine for various examinations.


    Just as we left the ultrasound room and were about to take the elevator, I spotted a familiar figure. I


    immediately grabbed Catherine and hid around the corner.


    Our actions startled Dr. Dailey, who looked at us in confusion. I made a ''shush'' gesture and pointed to


    the entrance of theboratory. "I know her." I mouthed silently. Dr. Dailey immediately understood and


    leaned towards us.


    Feeling awkward, I said, "Sorry! She''s a crucial person!"


    The person I saw was ra. She was talking to a doctor, looking very obedient. However, their


    expressions were quite cautious, especially the doctor, who kept ncing around.


    ra handed something to the doctor, who quickly slipped it into the pocket of his coat.


    Then, leaving ra alone, he turned and went back into theb.


    ra looked back cautiously, nced in our direction, and then left without hesitation, her steps light.


    I exchanged a nce with Catherine, then turned to Dr. Dailey. "Um... Dr. Dailey, can you find out what


    ra gave to that doctor? I have a feeling..." I stopped, realizing how presumptuous I''ve been.


    Catherine immediately looked at Dr. Dailey. "Dr. Dailey, this is important for us. This woman is a bit


    suspicious, and we''re investigating her. There''s definitely something fishy about her actions just now."


    Dr. Dailey nced at us and nodded. "Just a moment! I''ll take you to the next test first."


    "We better not alert them!" I reminded him.


    Dr. Dailey nodded, indicating that he understood.


    Just as Hannah, who hadpleted the discharge procedures, found us, I quickly pulled her aside and


    whispered something in her ear. She immediately turned and left.


    Dr. Dailey then led us down the stairs through a hidden passage, sent me into the examination room,


    and then left.


    As Catherine apanied me during the examination, she said, "She looked so sneaky. It must be


    something dubious!"


    "Do you think she came for a routine blood test? Her body must have shown some abnormalities!" I


    guessed.


    "If that¡¯s the case, there''s no need for her to be so sneaky about it! The doctor looked really nervous


    and cautious! Just based on that, it''s definitely not a good thing!" Catherine grumbled, "These sisters...


    None of them are easy to deal with!"


    By the time I finished the examination, Dr. Dailey hurried back.


    I looked at him expectantly and asked, "Did you find out what it was?"

 Chapter 215

    Chapter 215


    Dr. Dailey peered at us with deep-set eyes and pronounced, "Gic testing!"


    "Gic testing?"


    Catherine and I voiced our doubts in unison.


    Suddenly, a thought struck me, and I hurriedly asked, "Whose?"


    "No name was left. It appears to be a personal test, which is something we do not allow here at our


    hospital," Dr. Dailey said in a rather pompous manner.


    Well, it would be embarrassing for any director to discover his staff conducting unauthorized tests. I


    totally got his point.


    "Howe there''s no name?" I was stunned, and my mood instantly soured.


    "Don''t worry. I didn''t alert her and made a mark on it. I''ll be the first to get the result." Dr. Dailey


    observed our concern and reassured us, "Once this is over, I''ll deal with this issue sternly! It''s utterly


    uneptable!"


    Honestly, I didn''t care whether Dr. Dailey would deal with it or not. What I cared about was who the test


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    subject was!


    "The most important thing is we still don''t know whose DNA she''s testing. That''s critical!" I said


    anxiously, "How could she not leave a name? That''s so cunning!"


    "Well... we''ll see if shees to im the results," Dr. Dailey said, folding his arms and falling into


    deep thought.


    "What do you mean?" I asked anxiously. The identity of the person in the test was crucial to me.


    "If she wants the test report, it''s no problem at all. We can intercept it right away. If she doesn''t want the


    report and only wants the result, we''re out of options."


    "Alright, Dr. Dailey! I need your help to intercept this test report. Whether there''s a name or not, I must


    get the result!" I responded affirmatively to Dr. Dailey''s suggestion, and after asking for the name of the


    doctor who conducted the test, I thanked Dr. Dailey.


    Since we didn¡¯t need to wait for the report of my examination, we bid Dr. Dailey farewell and left the


    office.


    Catherine asked me, "What did you send Hannah off to do?"


    "I told her to follow ra to see who she meets up with. Hopefully, we''ll get a lead!" I informed


    Catherine about Hannah''s mission.


    She gave me a thumbs-up. "You''re damn quick on your feet!"


    "It seems the child is still in their hands. One of the DNA samples in this test belongs to that child, for


    sure. But as for the father''s DNA, we''re unsure whether it''s Jan''s or Jerome''s!" I pondered over it, "If


    it''s Jan''s, why would ra sneak around for a test?"


    I muttered my analysis and turned to Catherine, "You also think it''s sneaky, right?"


    Catherine pondered my words. "You mean Jan?"


    I was speechless, ring at her before slowly shaking my head. "Has ra been in contact with


    Jerome?"


    Once the words were out, even I was startled. What on earth was ra thinking? If she''d been in


    contact with Jerome... Crap! That was dangerous!


    I stopped in my tracks, afraid to think further. Was ra in contact with Jerome?


    A chill ran down my spine as I spun around on the spot, and my heart began to pound erratically again.


    Catherine looked at me. "Are you... worried about ra having been in touch with Jerome?"


    Without a word, I nced at Catherine. Her brain took a while to catch up with my train of thought.


    "Oh, damn it... That could be a problem, huh?" Catherine asked, looking startled.


    "A big problem!" I replied, growing more uneasy, "ra knows too much!"


    "What should we do?" Catherine was also growing anxious. "If she turns on us, that''s... Shit! That will


    be a big mess!"


    My lips trembled slightly. This was exactly what I was worried about. ra had been staying by


    Jan¡¯s side, had contact with Jerome, and was stirring up trouble here. What was she trying to do?


    This wasn''t just about her wanting to get back at Zora.


    All signs indicated that whoever this test subject was, it posed a significant threat.


    Whether it was Jan or Jerome, they both were threat to me.

 Chapter 216

    Chapter 216


    Catherine could see the anxiety written all over my face and immediately tried to reassure me. "Take it


    easy, Aaliyah. We''re just guessing here. Besides, we have Dr. Dailey on our side. What''s there to worry


    about?"


    "Even a minor slip-up could lead to disaster, Catherine," I retorted, giving her a pointed look.


    She shrugged nonchntly. "Don''t be such a pessimist, Aaliyah."


    "I hope you''re right," I muttered under my breath.


    "Aaliyah!" At that moment, a voice called out for my name from a distance. I turned around to find


    Cami, Jerome''s wife, walking towards us, holding her purse.


    "Cami." I greeted her with genuine warmth, walking up to meet her. "What brings you to the


    hospital?"


    She gave a shy smile and took my hand. "I''ve been feeling a little under the weathertely. So I came


    in for a check-up and to get the results today."


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    I hadn''t seen Cami in ages. She looked the same, except maybe a little thinner and slightly pale.


    "What''s bothering you? Have you seen the doctor yet?" I asked, concerned. Of all the Dawson family,


    she was the only one I liked.


    "I''ve been having stomach aches for a while now," she replied, her voice as soft and gentle as a


    whisper. She looked at me and said, "I wanted to visit you when I heard you were ill but..."


    She trailed off, her gaze dropping to the floor. I knew what she would say next even she didn¡¯t finish the


    sentence.


    "It''s alright, Cami. We''re family, after all. Don''t worry about me. I''m much better now. Is Fidelia at


    home?" I asked, referring to her daughter with Jerome.


    She gave me a gentle and warm smile. "Yes, she''s at home. How about Monique and Probert? It''s


    been ages since Ist saw them."


    "They''re both doing well. They''ve grown so tall! They''re staying with my parents in Silverdale City," I


    replied, instantly regretting the words. Cami wasn''t close with her family, so it was unlikely her child


    would ever visit her grandmother.


    It was well known that Cami had distanced herself from her family. When she and Jerome were


    nning their wedding, her family demanded arge sum of wedding fund from the Dawson family. The


    Dawson family, however, turned a deaf ear to their demands, leading to several heated disputes.


    Despite the constant bickering and threats of calling off the wedding, Cami remained by Jerome''s


    side. Whether it was out of love for Jerome or fear of what he might do, she stuck with him through


    thick and thin.


    Eventually, Hazel and I intervened. We bought them a small old house, and they finally tied the knot.


    Within a year, Cami gave birth to Fidelia.


    I suspected that Cami was pregnant with Jerome''s child during the wedding drama, which was why


    she was so adamant about being with him. It strained her rtionship with her family, and they rarely


    kept in touch.


    Upon hearing that my kids were visiting my mother, Cami''s face froze slightly. "It must be nice to be


    close to the family," she said.


    "Ah... I have been sick and haven''t been back in a while. I visited my mom¡¯s ce only because I was


    so mad at Jan," I said, hoping to lighten the mood. "I''m nning to go back soon. Or would you like


    Fidelia to stay in Silverdale City for a few days?"

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    Chapter 217


    After hearing what I said, Cami was stunned for a second, and I saw a glimmer in her eyes.


    So, I hurriedly continued, "Anyway, summer vacation is long ahead. My mom lives on Oldtown Avenue.


    There are quite a lot of kids there, but it''s safe. My kids are there, too. Fidelia will love it. Let her and


    her cousins run wild, and it''s better than being alone.¡±


    Cami seemed tempted, looking up at me, cautiously asking, "Wouldn¡¯t that be too much trouble?¡±


    ¡°Come on, Cami! Don¡¯t be silly. There will be no trouble at all. The kids should be together!" I said


    with augh, "My parents adore kids. They even look after the neighborhood kids, let alone our own!


    They¡¯ll take great care of her, and you can rest assured! Ask Fidelia if she wants to go. If she does, I¡¯ll


    drop her off in a few days and pick up Carl while I''m at it!¡±


    ¡°Carl is also there?¡± Cami seemed surprised.


    ¡°Yeah! You know, with all that¡¯s happened, I had to rush back here and couldn¡¯t bring Carl with me.¡± I


    said with a hint of meaning,ughing carelessly, revealing my sincerity.


    Regardless, I have a soft spot for Cami. She was so down-to-earth, living in the Dawson family like


    an invisible woman, which was so sad. We were both daughters-inws, especially in the Dawson


    family, we could feel one another''s frustration. Who wouldn''t feel stifled that way?


    She seemed persuaded, looking at me with a humble smile, "Then... then thank you so much! I¡¯ll ask


    Fidelia¡¯s opinion when I get home!"


    "Great! Go ahead and ask! Give me a call when you¡¯ve decided! As soon as I can get around, I¡¯ll take


    her there!¡± I promised enthusiastically, trying to ease Cami''s worries.


    ¡°Well... I, I don¡¯t have your number!¡± She cautiously smiled at me, a sight that tugged at my


    heartstrings.


    Iughed, pping my forehead, quickly pulling out my phone to share my contact. ¡°Here. Please mark


    my number.¡±


    She hurriedly fished out her phone from her purse, adding my contact, her face lighting up as she


    added me.


    I nodded, quickly epting her request. "Okay. There we go. Now we can be in touch anytime! We can


    keep each other updated on things!¡±


    Looking down, I noticed her purse was quite outdated, the edges all worn. To be honest, my heart


    ached. Jerome, the jerk, had never treated Cami right despite her unwavering loyalty.


    Cami was the only one who could grin and bear it. Anyone else in her shoes would''ve probably


    caused a ruckus long ago.


    After adding me, her smile grew even brighter, and she started to talk more, "My Fidelia''s been feeling


    pretty lonely. She''s a bit introverted, I... I''m so worried about her, but I don''t know what to do. I feel like


    she and Monique could get along. It''s just... they don¡¯t get to see each other that often."


    "No worries! Kids will get to know each other quickly. Given the right environment, I believe she''lle


    out of her shell soon.¡± I reassured her, "So, we need to create a good environment for her and help her


    be more outgoing. Kids adapt quickly! Let¡¯s n on that, then. Let me know once you¡¯ve asked


    her!"


    I repeatedly reassured her, determined to lend her a hand whenever possible.


    Cami kept nodding, then hastily said her goodbyes. She had always been careful around me.


    Honestly, my heart went out to her when I watched her leave in haste. She held no status in the


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Dawson family neither in her own family. Even her husband didn''t think much of her. I shook my head


    and sighed, thinking what a big heart she had! She was indeed an extraordinary woman!


    As she disappeared from my sight, Catherine abruptly pulled me aside. "Alright, enough with your


    worries for her! It is her fate, a path she chose herself. So, whatever the oue, she has to ept it.


    Just as the saying goes that, everything happens for a reason!"


    "You¡¯re right!" I agreed.


    "Let''s go! Back to your ce?" She asked.


    I hesitated, pulling her along. "I can¡¯t just yet!"


    Catherine looked at me puzzled. "Why can''t you?¡±


    ¡°I still need to swing by the hospital room. I can¡¯t just leave without checking on Jta!" I suddenly


    remembered this.


    Catherine nodded. "Oh, right. If you hadn''t mentioned it, I would''ve forgotten it! Okay, let''s go!"


    We turned on our heels and headed straight for Jta''s hospital room.


    Catherine had been there before, so she knew the way. When we reached Jta''s room, we were


    shocked by the scene inside.

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    Chapter 218


    As Catherine and I stepped into Jta''s hospital room, we were astounded by the sheer number of


    people gathered inside, giving off an ominous vibe.


    Upon a closer look, I saw Irving was among them, surrounded by his posse.


    Irving was facing off with Janice, the air between them sizzling with tension.


    Janice, heavily pregnant, was seated on Jta''s bed while Irving was standing on the opposite, with a


    young girl by his side. The girl was striking, with clear eyes, rosy lips, and a radiant smile. She bore a


    striking resemnce to Janice.


    It could only be Nettie Bradlee, Jta and Irving''s daughter.


    Nettie wore a cold expression, her aloof demeanor making it unclear whose side she was on.


    Irving turned to nce at us as we entered, nodding slightly in acknowledgment but remaining silent.


    The tension made me ufortable and unsure of what to do.


    However, seeing Geneva by Janice''s side, I walked in confidently, approaching the bed to look at


    Jta.


    Jtay motionless on the bed, her face pale, devoid of any signs of life.


    Truth be told, if it weren''t for the beeping machines by her bedside, one could easily mistake her for a


    corpse.


    The readings on the monitors were slightly below normal, showing no signs of her regaining


    consciousness.


    I took a step back, observing Irving decently dressed in a suit and polished shoes. Middle-aged, he had


    started to develop a slight paunch, a sign of prosperity.


    Irving and I went way back. When I was running mypany, his pharmaceutical business was


    booming.


    Back then, Irving was a lean figure with sharp features that contrasted greatly with his current


    appearance.


    Irving was reasonably charming with big-sized features, although his face was aparatively small.


    His bushy eyebrows and big eyes seemed out of ce on his petite face.


    Especially those eyes, they were dark and deep-set, giving an impression of two hollow pits.


    Such eyes were bound to give off an air of mischief, regardless of his smile. Those eyes always


    seemed cold, like they were hiding a secret.


    I had a cordial rtionship with Jta, who ran a well-established hospital and had purchased some


    equipment from me.


    Given that we were both businesswomen, I had offered her a discount, and Jta appreciated the


    kind gesture. So, our friendship grew.


    Jta was a person with a deep sense of gratitude. She never let her friends suffer losses. If you


    showed her the slightest kindness, she would repay it tenfold.


    She had beautiful features which weren''t conventionally attractive at a first nce, but her beauty grew


    over time. But the woman lying motionless on the bed bore little resemnce to the Jta I knew.


    Later, after I handed over mypany to Jan and fell ill, I lost touch with Jta.


    Life could be so unpredictable. I was unaware of her ident that left her in a vegetative state!


    I was even more surprised that Irving had taken a new wife!


    Irving, however, stayed close to Jan after I stepped down.


    I learned about this from Janice after I woke up.


    Seeing the standoff in the hospital room, I held my breath, silently observing the tension unfold.N?velDrama.Org content.

 Chapter 219

    Chapter 219


    I helplessly looked at Geneva beside Janice, her handfortingly stroking Janice''s back. She had


    worry was all on her face and a hint of displeasure, as well.


    Janice, on the other hand, was livid. Her cold stare directed at Irving. "Take your men and get out of


    here. It is a hospital, for God¡¯s sake. What''s with this mob you''ve brought along? What are you up to?"


    Irving grinned at Janice, his smile failing to reach his eyes. "Don''t mind me. I''m not up to anything. I just


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    thought them in case something happened to Jta. We''ll need more hands on deck."


    "And why would anything happen to her?" Janice retorted, her tone sharp.


    I couldn''t help but inwardly curse Irving. That weasel clearly wished ill on Jta!


    My gaze at Irving hardened, a chill flickering in my eyes.


    "I''m just ying it safe," Irving replied, grinning like a fox that just got into the hen house.


    "Don''t y dumb with me. If you want to put on a show, do it somewhere else. Don''t try to y the


    good guy in front of me. And don''t pretend to be a saint here. I can see right through you! Remember,


    you divorced the woman lying here. Stop pretending to care so much about her!


    Janice was quite obviously infuriated by Irving. Her words cut deep, leaving no room for Irving''s dignity.


    Nettie seemed to have had enough. She turned to Janice and said, "Aunt Janice, what are you doing?


    We only want mom to wake up and receive better care. Why can''t you stop making a fuss and let


    things be?"


    Her words wereced with resentment, implying Janice was at fault. It was clear to Gevena, Catherine


    and me then. This kid was siding with her father.


    "Nettie, do you even understand what you''re saying? What do you mean ''let things be'', huh? If you''re


    going to talk to me like this, get the hell out of here with your father. This ce belongs to the Makynzie


    family, not the Bradlee family!" Janice was unyielding, her words sharp.


    Nettie was stunned by Janice''s words and couldn¡¯t ept Janice¡¯s attitude towards her. Her face sank


    instantly.


    "You''re being too bossy and unreasonable! She''s my mom! Why can''t I see her?"


    Nettie''s attitude was terrible, and she had no regard for Janice''s feelings. It seemed she was in league


    with Irving.


    I felt a twinge of worry for Janice. She was evidently fighting this battle alone, and the odds weren''t in


    her favor.


    The feud between the Bradlee and Makynzie families was a tough one, even for an impartial judge. I


    couldn¡¯t help eyeing on Nettie, whose face was as cold as ice. Her attitude was upromising, and


    her intentions was clear. Her words sounded tough and mean.


    "Do you even remember that she''s your mom? She''s been lying here for years. How many times have


    you visited?" Janice snapped, her gaze fixed on Nettie. "Count on your fingers. You have been too


    busy, right? You can''te back from studying abroad, right? You have the time to celebrate the


    birthday of your father''s mistress, the woman who ruined your family. But you don¡¯t have time to visit


    your own mother? Do you really take me as a blind and a fool?"


    Janice''s almost burst into tears after saying that. For the first time, I saw this side of her.


    Even as an outsider, it was hard for me to ept that Nettie had celebrated the birthday of the woman


    who ruined her family. No wonder Janice was furious.


    Did this girl lose her mind?


    Catherine, never one to hold her tongue, blurted out, "That was a bit too much."


    Irving nced sharply at the ever-fearless Catherine, a hint of annoyance creasing his forehead. After


    all, this was their family issue, and it wasn''t appropriate for outsiders to interfere.


    Nettie''s face darkened even more. "So what? She''s lying here unconscious. I have limited time. I can''t


    even care for the living, let alone the dead..."


    "Nettie Bradlee!"

 Chapter 220

    Chapter 220


    With a bellow that could deafen a man, Janice cut off Nettie mid-sentence. "She isn''t dead. She''s still


    alive!" she roared, her voice hoarse with the effort.


    Nettie jumped at the sound, her eyes darting to Janice in startled panic. Janice was shaking from head


    to toe, her breathing in ragged gasps, her face deadly pale.


    Catherine hurried over, steadying Janice with an arm around her. "Calm down! It isn''t worth it. Don¡¯t be


    mad at this kind of people. Take care!"


    Nettie, perhaps realizing she had crossed a line, mped her mouth shut, her face set in a cold


    expression.


    Irving, who had been watching the whole scene with detached interest, stepped forward with a smug


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    smile. "Janice, why are you doing this to yourself? I''m only trying to help and share the burden. Why


    are you so resistant?"


    His words were like adding fuel to the fire, and I gritted my teeth in frustration by hearing them.


    Never had I seen a man so contemptible and low. But Irving continued his performance. "Even if


    Jta were awake, I don''t think she would be so cruel. We were once married, after all. Even though


    we agreed to part ways, we''re still Nettie''s parents. We¡¯re still a family. Why are you trying to tear us


    apart? It''s not good for Nettie. We should make sure she has a happy life."


    Irving had a way with words. I must give him that. But anyone with half a brain could see that he was


    the one causing the division.


    "No need. Just get lost," Janice said coldly.


    "It¡¯s not for you to decide!" Nettie retorted, showing no signs of backing down. "I may not have visited


    her, but my dad paid for her treatment. You have no right to refuse his arrangements!"


    Nettie was infuriating, to say the least. Even as an outsider, I was seething with anger.


    "Huh, your dad paid for her treatment? Where did that moneye from? Ask your dear father how he


    earned it!" Janice pointed a shaking finger at Nettie. "One day you''ll realize how outrageous your


    behavior is today. Get out! Get the hell out of here..."


    Janice was at her breaking point, her lips quivering with suppressed rage.


    Nettie opened her mouth to respond, but Gevena had enough of it and interrupted. "Enough!"


    I felt a wave of relief wash over me. I had held my breath, waiting for someone to end this madness.


    With a sigh, Gevena turned to Irving and said, "Mr. Bradlee, I know I¡¯m not supposed to interfere, but


    today I must.¡±


    Irving had shocked by Gevena¡¯s shout. So, he could only look at Gevena in embarrassment.


    Gevena said calmly, ¡°It¡¯s enough for today. Take Nettie and leave. As you can see, Jta''s condition


    is uncertain. We can¡¯t tell when she will wake up or if she can wake up. Janice is seven months


    pregnant. This tension isn''t good for either of them."


    I looked up to Irving.


    "Besides, if anything happens to Janice, Mr. Bradlee, I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t afford to answer for the


    consequence,¡± Gevena said meaningfully.


    After all, Janice''s husband, Baber Forrest, wasn¡¯t an ordinary soldier. He may not be overly involved in


    Janice''s affairs, but he was known to be very protective of her.


    Gevena paused, letting her words sink in. "Mr. Forrest has entrusted me to look after Janice. If anything


    were to happen to her, it would be on our heads. So I''m asking you, as a personal favor, to leave. If


    Jta wakes up, you cane back. But for now, the hostility isn''t doing anyone any good to the


    patient. What do you say?"


    Irving¡¯s face turned slightly pale, and he stared at Gevena for long, his mouth twitching.


    He remained silent for a while before he cleared his throat and said, "Very well, I''ll respect your wishes,


    Gevena. I was trying to do more to make up for Jta. I didn''t expect Janice to be so...


    uncooperative."


    He looked at Janice, his gaze cold and calcting, and thought, "I''ll leave for now. But this isn''t over."

 Chapter 221

    Chapter 221


    Irving, using his ssic passive-aggressive tone, continued to speak, "Well, if Gevena says so, I must


    adhere! I''ll just head out for now. But I''ll still do what I want to do!"


    Saying so, he threw a provocative nce at a noticeably riled up Janice, adding fuel to the fire.


    Addressing Janice with pretentious sincerity, he continued shamelessly, "Jta and I have been


    married for years. There''s a solid emotional foundation between us. Even if she wakes up, she may not


    necessarily drive me away! I just want to tell Janice to try to see things from her sister¡¯s perspective.


    Our kid is grown up. What¡¯s the point of making things hard for yourself or for someone who genuinely


    cares, right?¡±


    What the hell! I couldn''t believe Irving was such a tough nut to crack. What a terrible man!


    Even as an outsider, I wanted to kick his ass.


    "Irving, don''t sugarcoat your words. Stop giving me crap like ¡®we''ve been married so long''. It¡¯s ages


    ago, and your new wife is bing an old one. Who are you trying to fool with this pretense of deep


    affection? If you''ve truly had a heart, the best course would be to y dead! Get lost and stopping


    showing up in my face to make me sick!" Janice, despite her anger, was quick-witted and sharp-


    tongued.


    Everyone overlooked Nettie''sbativeness. She resumed in a disdainful tone and spoke again.


    "Aunt Janice, mind your own business! Stop acting like a savior. You can¡¯t represent my mom, and you


    definitely can¡¯t represent me!"


    Nettie¡¯s words were harsh. I couldn''t help but stare at her, thinking how Jta had such a mean


    daughter. She was so much like her bastard father. It must be in their genes!


    I was so thankful for my loving parents. Otherwise, I couldn''t guarantee my Monique wouldn''t be


    corrupted by the Dawson family! That would be truly horrifying.


    Janice suddenly stood up, taking arge step forward. No one expected her to p Nettie across the


    face.


    Nettie was left dumbfounded, staring at the furious Janice.


    The room fell silent.


    The next moment, Janice clutched her stomach, letting out a low groan, and copsed.


    Catherine screamed, "Oh my... Blood! She''s bleeding. Janice!"


    I was shocked, looking at the red stain spreading across Janice''s dress.


    "Doctor, doctor! Someone help!" I ran out of the room, my voice trembling and breaking.


    The chaos in the room was only interrupted when Gevena roared, "Irving, look what you''ve done! Get


    the hell out! Janice... are you okay?" She held Janice, calling her name anxiously.


    Janice was groaning in pain, her face pale. The situation looked dire.


    Nettie, still reeling from the p, had turned ghostly pale. She kept stepping back, seemingly forgetting


    the p.


    Holding Janice, Gevena reassured, "Don''t panic. I''m here. Don''t be afraid!"


    She tried to sound confident, but her voice was shaking as if she had freaked out.


    After calling for the doctor, I mustered my strength to run back into the room, my legs barely supporting


    me.


    At that moment, others in the room slinked away silently, too afraid to approach.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I joined Gevena in supporting Janice. Blood was dripping down her legs and pooling on the floor


    beneath her.


    Catherine, a young unmarried woman, had never seen such a gruesome sight. She was terrified and


    dazed.


    I shouted to her, "Catherine, call Baber quickly."


    She snapped out of her daze and fumbled with Janice''s phone to dial.


    Meanwhile, medical staff rushed in. A muscr doctor lifted Janice onto a stretcher and instructed her


    to control her breathing.


    We were all focused on Janice, whose condition was worsening rapidly. Her bleeding was


    uncontroble.


    Suddenly, someone yelled, "Look, the patient moved. Look..."

 Chapter 222

    Chapter 222


    Janice grabbed the gurney that was about to wheel away and sat up, straining to look at Jta on the


    bed.


    We all followed her gaze.


    Indeed, Jta''s hand was clenched into a fist, shaking continuously. At that moment, I almost broke


    into tears. It meant that Jta was conscious. She must have sensed that her sister was in


    danger,which lead to her agitation.


    The monitor on the bedside table started beeping, sending a panic through the room.


    Janice gritted her teeth, grabbed me by my arm, and said anxiously, "Aaliyah, please watch over my


    sister for me. I beg you!"


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    I nodded fervently. "Don''t worry. I''ll make sure she''s okay! Doctor, please save her! Go..."


    After saying this, I pushed the gurney. The medical staff quickly started wheeling Janice towards the


    emergency room.


    Gevena gave me a look. We exchanged nces, and she followed Janice.


    I stood rooted to the spot and watched them disappear from sight before rushing to Jta''s bedside.


    "Jta!" I called out, clutching her trembling hand. Regardless of whether she could hear me, I tried


    to soothe her, "Don''t worry. Everything will be fine!"


    By this time, Irving had called for the medical staff of this ward, and was instructing them about


    something.


    Catherine had also finished her call and returned, looking at us helplessly.


    Seeing Irving reaching out to touch Jta, I barked, "Don''t touch her!"


    Everyone in the room was stunned by my outburst, all eyes on me. Irving stared at me, his eyes filled


    with confusion and a hint of menace. I didn''t hesitate. "Since Janice has entrusted Jta to me,


    nobody can touch her in my presence! Mr. Bradlee, you¡¯ve promised Gevena to leave, and you¡¯d better


    keep your word!"


    At this point, I was truly furious. I had had enough of their father-daughter drama and didn''t want to give


    them any leeway.


    "Mrs. Dawson, do you know what you''re doing?" Irving questioned me coldly.


    "Of course I do!" I replied righteously, "You don¡¯t need to worry about anything here! You should leave


    now! If there''s any news, Janice will inform you if she feels the need!"


    "Don''t act high and mighty here. You''re an outsider. It would be wise for you to shut up!" Irving snarled


    at me, his eyes filled with hostility.


    "What if I don''t?" I stood my ground, unyielding, facing him head-on. "Don''t forget that you''re also an


    outsider here!"


    On hearing my words, Irving was clearly displeased. His gaze became even more piercing and his tone


    more sinister. "Mrs. Dawson, I didn''t expect you to be such a busybody! This woman is the mother of


    my child. It¡¯s perfectly justified for me to be involved. Who the hell do you think you are? Do you think


    you can handle the consequences if something happens to her?"


    "If you''d get lost, nothing would happen to her!" I stood in his way, "I, Aaliyah Wilburn, will take care of


    this today! But I''m curious why you¡¯re so bothered by whether Jta wakes up!"


    "You..." Irving red at me, his jaw clenched, his eyes bloodshot.


    "Get out of the way!" I barked. Then, without paying him any heed, I instructed Catherine, "Call Dr.


    Dailey immediately and tell him to check on Jta!"


    I had to prepare for an emergency. I couldn''t let Jta out of my sight. The only person I trusted was


    Dr. Dailey.


    Catherine immediately took out her phone and called Dr. Dailey as told. By this time, the medical staff


    had brought another gurney and moved Jta onto it, wheeling her out.


    I hurriedly followed them. Although my legs felt like jelly, I gritted my teeth and kept moving.


    In the back of my mind, Logan''s words echoed. Anything could happen, and I had to be ready.


    Fortunately, Catherine was always by my side. When we got to the emergency room door, Dr. Dailey


    and his assistant had already arrived.


    Without hesitation, I approached him, grabbed his arm, and whispered, "Dr. Dailey, I beg you. Don''t let


    this patient out of your sight. She¡¯ll be in danger otherwise. Please ensure her safety!"


    Dr. Dailey nodded solemnly. Without saying a word, he went straight in with his team.

 Chapter 223

    Chapter 223


    Seeing Dr. Dailey enter the room with his assistant, I felt relieved. I felt my legs buckle after settling


    everything. Catherine was there to catch me, her voice filled with concern, "Allie, are you okay?"


    I pointed to a chair nearby. Catherine, understanding my unspoken request, helped me sit down. I


    watched as Irving and a group of people, including Nettie, followed us.


    I took a long look at Nettie. Her face was unreadable, eyes filled with indifference. Perhaps the sudden


    and gory event had taken their toll on her. Her face was pale, and her fists clenched. She seemed on


    edge.


    Feeling my gaze, she turned her head towards me. Annoyance shed in her eyes as she met my


    gaze defiantly.


    I held her gaze, pressing her with my own.


    After a while, she looked away with her back to me, revealing a hint of guilt in her retreating eyes.


    I sneered silently. ¡°You must be guilty, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    She had iting for being so heartless. No wonder Janice pped her. She deserved it!


    C0pyright ? 2024 N?v)(elDrama.Org.


    Meanwhile, Irving was busy on his phone, creating an annoying din.


    Catherine asked worriedly, "Allie, do you think Janice will be okay? She lost so much blood... I''m


    worried."


    I turned to Catherine, instructing her, "Go check on her. I''ll call Hannah toe back. If there''s any


    news, let me know immediately. I''m worried, too."


    Catherine nodded. "Alright, I''m on it."


    As she started to leave, I called after her, "Wait..."


    Catherine halted in her tracks as I continued, "Tell Janice not to worry about anything here. I will do


    everything in my power to protect Jta. She''s my friend, and I won''t let anything happen to her."


    My words were loud enough for everyone to hear. I saw Nettie nce at me, her expression


    inscrutable.


    As for Irving, he wore a mocking smile, his eyes filled with disdain.


    I had seen him speaking to Jta''s doctor earlier, so I told Catherine to get Dr. Dailey. I had to ensure


    that I could hand over Jta safe and sound when Janice was out. That was the least I could do to


    honour the trust Janice ced in me.


    Catherine looked at me anxiously. "Call Hannah toe back quickly! I''ll go to the obstetrics and


    gynecology department after she arrives. I can¡¯t leave you here alone."


    I urged Catherine. "I¡¯ll be fine. Go on. Let me know if anything happens!"


    Before I could call Hannah, she walked in. I was stunned and asked, "How did you know I was at the


    hospital?"


    She hummed in response and looked towards the emergency room. "Who''s in there?"


    "Jta!" I also looked towards the emergency room, growing increasingly anxious. I had no idea if


    she would wake up.


    "Is she waking up?" Hannah sat next to me, studying my face, and asked, "What happened?"


    "Janice is in trouble! I don''t know how she''s doing now!" I expressed my worries, "I hope both of them


    can get through this safely."


    I wanted to ask Hannah how she got back so quickly, but with Irving and others around, I didn''t want to


    cause unnecessary trouble.


    Waiting was agonising. I was nervous and restless. I walked over to the patio railing to get some fresh


    air. I looked down and found Cami rushing out of a corridor on the opposite side and taking the


    esctor downstairs.


    I was a little confused. Wasn''t she having stomach issues? Why was she on the second floor? If I


    remembered correctly, the entire first floor was all operating rooms. Was her condition bad enough to


    require surgery?


    I asked Hannah toe over and pointed to the corridor opposite. I whispered a few words in her ear,


    and she immediately went downstairs.

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    Hannah was quickly back at my side, shaking her head at me. "I just checked. No patient is with that


    name! Besides, the direction she went in is the urology ward."


    "Urology?" I was puzzled, wondering why Cami would go to the urology ward.


    Just then, there was a movement at the emergency room door, and I quickly looked over to see Dr.


    Daileying out.


    I hurriedly strode over to him and anxiously asked, "How''s the situation?"


    Dr. Dailey shook his head solemnly. "It''s just a case of nerve spasms, a sign ofing to wake up. But


    she hasn''t woken up yet. It might be a reaction to external stimtion. We have to keep observing!" His


    gaze at me was a bit strange. I was puzzled, so I asked again, "Do you have to keep Jta here for


    observation?"


    "Yes, she''ll be taken back to the wardter! It''s a good sign, but we''ll have to check on herter state


    and various indicators." Dr. Dailey exined in detail.


    "How much longer will it be until she wakes up?" Irving chimed in from the side.


    I nced at him, thinking to myself that he really concerned about whether Jta would wake up or


    not. I wonder what his intentions were.


    "Let her rest well! As for when she will wake up, it''s hard to tell." Dr. Dailey couldn''t give us an urate


    answer. But somehow, I had a feeling he wasn''t telling us everything.


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Twenty minutester, Jta was back to the ward.


    Irving and Nettie both came by for a look, especially Nettie, who had observed carefully. I didn¡¯t bother


    to care about them, and sat down to watch Jta closely.


    For some reason, I felt like Jta looked more lively than when she was initially back. Herplexion


    no longer seemed so pale.


    Just then, Jta''s attending doctor came in. Irving immediately followed him to ask about the


    situation. I pricked my ears to listen, and the doctor''s words were same as Dr. Dailey''s.


    Irving seemed a bit disappointed. After giving a perfunctory reply, he turned to me and said, "Mrs.


    Dawson, you are so dedicated, and I don''t know how to thank you more. I have something to do at the


    Without lifting my eyelids, I watched him awkwardlyugh and head for the door, but suddenly he


    turned back, leaning in to me. "Oh, Mrs. Dawson. I forgot to share a news with you."


    I instinctively recoiled, looking at him with annoyance. "If you have something to say, say it. And keep


    your distance!"


    Nettie was standing not far away, watching me.


    Irving looked at me with a smirk, straightening his portly figure as if waiting for my response or


    attention. But my eyes were only on Jta.


    Seeing I wasn''t paying attention, Irving didn''t seem embarrassed. Heughed in a pretentious manner.


    "Mrs. Dawson, I¡¯m afraid you are unaware yet! Elixir Pharma Limited is about to be a major


    shareholder of Medsafe Liyah Inc. We will be working closely together. So, Mrs. Dawson, we''ll have to


    share the glory and the shame from now on! I''m off to Medsafe Liyah Inc. to celebrate the sessful


    signing of the contract overseas!"


    I was shocked. What? Did he say Elixir Pharma Limited would work closely with Medsafe Liyah Inc.and


    be its shareholder? Did I hear it correctly?


    Seeing my distraction, Irvingughed. "So, I''ll have to trouble you to take care of things here, Mrs.


    Dawson!"


    With that, he walked out like a victorious general,ughing out loud as he strode off.


    I caught a glimpse of Nettie out of the corner of my eye. She hesitated slightly before turning to follow


    Irving out.


    Hannah snorted coldly, muttering, "Jesus! What kind of person is he?"


    Listening to Irving and Nettie¡¯s receding footstep, a smile spread across my face. "Well, wish him all the


    best then."


    I hadn''t expected Jan could still pull someone down with him before he was doomed. It would be


    best if Irving had be a strong shareholder of Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    I had indeed underestimated the bond between Jan and Irving. These two were good buddies, in


    collusion with each other, and were even willing to die together.


    This news was too delightful for me! I looked at Jta, unable to resist reaching to touch her hand.


    She immediately responded as if trying to grip my hand back. Startled, I leaned in closer to observe her


    face.


    Her eyshes fluttered a few times, but her eyes remained closed.


    "Hannah, can you keep an eye on her for me? I need to go out for a bit!" I immediately stood up,


    instructed Hannah, and headed out the door.

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    I rushed out of Jta''s ward, a whirlwind of urgency, seeking out Dr. Dailey. My gut was telling me


    that the doctor hadn''t beenpletely honest with me about Jta''s condition.


    Sure enough, upon seeing me, Dr. Dailey greeted me with a warm and knowing smile. "You figured it


    out, didn''t you?" he asked.


    "Really? Is she awake?" I asked hastily, my heart pounding with anticipation.


    "Yes, she is awake. She''s currently just sleeping normally," Dr. Dailey confirmed without hesitation.


    My heart soared with relief. ¡°What wonderful news! How is she doing, though? Are her vital signs all


    right?¡±


    "She''s doing quite well. She''s lucid, although her body''s functions, which have been dormant for a long


    time, will need some time to fully recover. But I believe she''ll adapt quickly and be ready for a normal


    life soon," Dr. Dailey reassured me. "What happened to her?"


    I briefly exined Jta''s situation to Dr. Dailey, who listened with a grave expression.


    "Good Lord, what a mess. Was that her ex-husband by the door earlier?"


    "Yes, he''s the big shot at Elixir Pharma Limited. I''m worried that Jta''s attending doctor will..." I


    trailed off, feeling ufortable suggesting any impropriety. I''d just exposed ab technician for


    misconduct earlier that morning. And I didn¡¯t have the heart to use another medical professional of


    bearing ill intentions.


    Dr. Dailey seemed to understand where I was going with my statement. "Your concerns aren''t


    unfounded," he said solemnly. "That''s why, in the emergency room earlier, I instructed all medical staff


    involved to keep Jta''s awakening a secret. I don''t think they''ll disobey my orders."


    I suddenly realized why the other doctor''s report to Irving matched Dr. Dailey''s. He had given the order.


    "As long as this stays under wraps until she''s awake enough to see her sister, we''re golden."


    "I''ll handle this," Dr. Dailey assured me confidently. "I''m quite familiar with her attending doctor."


    I understood his implication immediately. He must have some leverage over Jta''s attending doctor.


    "I''ll go check on her sister''s condition," I said, bidding Dr. Dailey goodbye and heading to the maternity


    ward.


    Stepping out of the elevator, I bumped into Catherine.


    "How''s Janice?" I asked anxiously, grabbing her by the arm.


    Catherine looked shaken. ¡°I was justing for you. Thank God! It happened in a hospital and could


    be taken care in time. Otherwise, it would''ve been toote..."


    "Get to the point!" I couldn''t contain my impatience.


    "She went into prematurebor. It''s a boy. They are both safe... I suppose."


    "What do you mean ''you suppose''?" I asked, not quite calm. I pressed the elevator button, pulling her


    with me. "Let''s go. I need to see for myself."


    Catherine hurriedly exined, "Well, we barely managed to save them in time. The baby needed


    resuscitation, but he''s out of danger now and in an incubator. Janice lost a lot of blood and is currently


    receiving a transfusion. She''s a bit weak and unconscious."


    "Talk about a silver lining," I muttered, patting my chest as the elevator doors opened.


    "How did you get out?" Catherine asked, sounding worried. "Who''s watching Jta?"


    "Hannah''s in the room, and Irving and his daughter have left. Jta''s awake," I shared the good news


    with Catherine.


    Catherine pped her hands in joy. "That''s wonderful! Janice was worried about her, even when she


    wasing in and out of consciousness."


    Hearing her talk about Janice like this made my heart ache.


    We continued our conversation as we made our way towards Janice''s room.


    Her room was spacious and cozy, almost hotel-like. Janicey on the bed, receiving a transfusion. Her


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    face was still deathly pale, and she was unconscious.


    A man was seated by her bed, holding her hand with a painful expression. He gently kissed her hand,


    his affection for her clear. I didn''t need to ask to know this was Janice''s husband, Baber.


    Upon hearing us, Geneva quickly turned around and came over. "Aaliyah, how''s everything on your


    end?"


    Baber, hearing the noise, turned to look and then stood up. It was my first time to see Baber, and


    honestly, I felt a little disappointed.

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    I said this purely because I was blind for good looks, which, admittedly, was also my Achilles heel. Had


    I not been so blind, I would never have fallen for Jan''s charm.


    The man standing before me was just average looking, nothing like the doting husband I had imagined.


    After all, Janice was a real beauty, the type of woman you could pick out in a crowd.


    In my mind, if Janice were to choose a man, he''d have to be tall and handsome. But the man standing


    before me, Baber, was far from that.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    However, his position of power brought with it a certain gravitas. Perhaps it was his long experience in


    politics that gave him a sense of maturity and wisdom, but he certainly had an imposing intimidating


    aura.


    Especially those deep, sparkling eyes of his were so profound. His eyes conveyed some thoughts, but


    the message he conveyed was one of authority, not of menace.


    For some reason, he reminded me of Ronan.


    Gevena immediately took a step forward, saying, "Baber, let me introduce you. This is Aaliyah, the


    founder of Medsafe Liyah Inc.." Gevena''s introduction was unique, emphasizing my position, but


    ignoring Jan. Then she continued, "She''s also a good friend of Janice''s, we are all close friends!


    She''s been looking after Jta!"


    Baber was very gentleman, with instantly stretching out his hand to me, his sharp eyes fixed on my


    face, but his gaze was disarming, "Ms. Wilburn, it''s a pleasure to meet you! I heard from Janice that


    you''ve not been feeling well, and yet you still take on so much. I really appreciate that!"With just a few


    simple sentences, he conveyed information, making you feel valued and respected.


    And, his hands were incredibly warm and firm. No wonder he''s so sessful in his career!


    "Mr. Forrest, no need for formalities. As a good friend, it''s what we do!" I quickly replied.


    "Just call me Baber, like Gevena does."


    Only then did Gevena ask me, "How''s everything? Is Jta okay?"


    I smiled and quickly shared the good news, "Good news, Jta''s awake! Janice will be relieved!"


    "...Aaliyah!" Suddenly, a weak voice came from the bed, and we all rushed over.


    Janice had woken up at some point and was staring at me with an anxious look on her face.


    I quickly moved over to her bedside, grabbing her hand, "Janice, don''t worry! Jta''s awake, all her


    health indicators are stable, Hannah''s watching over her, and the father-daughter duo has left!


    Plus, we''ve kept the news of her waking up under wraps. I asked Catherine to bring in Dr. Dailey, with


    his assistant been following up on everything. Jta''s doing well, so don''t worry. Just focus on getting


    better so you can go see your sister soon!"


    After hearing my words, Janice let out a sigh of relief, closed her eyes for a moment, and seemed


    exceptionally tired. A tear rolled down her cheek, quickly disappearing into her hair.


    "Don''t cry! It''s a double celebration, what great news! You''re a mom, and your sister''s awake! That''s


    amazing! Janice, it''s a boy!¡± Gevena leaned in and whispered softly, "Aaliyah''s taken care of


    everything. You just have a rest!"


    Janice pursed her lips, looking particrly gentle. It was the first time I''d seen her like this.


    Just then, a group of doctors briskly walked in, and we quickly moved aside to give them space.


    My phone rang out of the blue, and I quickly stepped out of the room. ncing at the caller ID, I saw


    that it was Jan calling.

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    I hesitated for a moment before picking up the phone. Before I could even utter a word, Jan''s


    excited voice came through, "Honey!"


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    It was the first time in recent memory he referred to me as such, and it made me a little queasy.


    "Honey, are you still there?" His voice was full of tender affection, almost sickeningly sweet.


    "Sure!" I responded.


    "Darling, I''ve got some great news for you. Our overseas contract has just been signed! I couldn''t wait


    to call you as soon as the meeting finished. You''re the first person I wanted to share this with!" His


    voice was trembling slightly.


    I raised an eyebrow, half-smiling as I asked nonchntly, "Did it go smoothly?"


    "Extremely smooth! Guess whichpany it was?" He was excitedly trying to keep me in suspense,


    then blurted out, "It''s the Wilson Group! Ha ha... Do you know how big the Wilson Group is? We''ve hit


    the jackpot, they havepanies all over the world, very prestigious."


    Jan''s voice was practically manic with excitement. I could almost picture his smug grin on the other


    end of the line.


    "Honey, are you still there?" He seemed unsure, asking me repeatedly.


    ¡°Why the hell wouldn''t I be, considering I was answering your phone?¡± I thought, rolling my eyes.


    "Mhm!" I responded, then added with augh, "That''s fantastic! It''s like the saying goes - after every


    storm, there''s a rainbow." I quoted an old saying, aptly describing my current feelings.


    "Ha ha ha!" Heughed heartily. "Tonight we''re having a celebration in ourpany. The arbitrator


    from Wilson''s regional division will be there too. Make sure you dress up nicely, today is a big day for


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. All of Goldenvale Town needs to know we''ve reached new heights again!"


    "Weren''t you always at the top?" Iplimented him, my voice neutral, as if I were merely ttering


    him.


    "Ha ha ha... I''ll be home soon, wait for me!"


    "You must be so overjoyed that you forgot I''m still in the hospital!" I yfully jabbed.


    Sure enough, Jan on the other end was momentarily speechless. It took him a moment to recover,


    then he began to stammer an apology, "I... I really did forget! These past few days have been a blur.


    Darling, forgive me, okay? From now on I''ll spend more time with you, you are my lucky charm!"


    His words almost made me throw up the leftovers fromst night''s dinner.


    Without missing a beat, I retorted, "Ha... Now that the contract is signed, you''re promising to spend


    more time with me? Give me some sincerity."


    Jan justughed even harder at my words, "But that is the truth! Time is like toothpaste, you have to


    squeeze it out! I need to make more time for you rather than neglecting you, my lovely wife."


    I scoffed under my breath. Neglect? That word was an insult to me. He had more than enough time for


    all the other women in his life. Marissa might be dead, but there were probably eight hundred more


    Marissas waiting in line.


    "You just wait at the hospital, I''lle pick you up!" Jan seemed eager to make amends, "I want my


    darling to share in this sess. Allie, you''re the only one worthy of sharing this joy, you truly deserve


    it!"


    "Just focus on your work. Hannah will apany me home!" I suggested kindly, "You have a lot to do,


    don''t worry about me! Just pick me up for the party tonight."


    "Honey..." Jan''s voice was choked with emotion, it didn''t sound like he was acting.


    "Hang up!" I cut him off, then remembered something, "Ah...wait, don''t forget to call my father!"


    "Ah... I''ll call him right away, immediately!" Jan was practically shouting with excitement, it was as if


    he was on a sugar high.


    The moment I hung up, I felt a surge of excitement. I quickly logged into our joint ount on my phone,


    verified my fingerprint, and checked the bnce. My heart leapt at the sight, ha ha ha...


    The money was back, and there was even more than before. It seemed Jan was trying to flex his


    financial muscles.


    The joy came so fast that I could hardly contain myself. I turned around, a broad smile on my face as I


    walked back into Janice''s hospital room.

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    In the hospital room, the doctor had just finished examining Janice and was instructing her family on


    care procedures.


    Seeing me walk in with a broad grin, Janice gave me a wave. The medical staff, seeing this, reminded


    us not to overexert ourselves and then exited the room.


    I approached Janice''s bedside. She looked at me, still weak, and asked, "By the look on your face, I


    guess you have some good news?"


    I nodded at Janice, then turned to Gevena before I replied, "The overseas deal is done. The payment


    hase through!"


    Gevena''s face instantly lighted up like a bright summer day, "Fantastic! We sisters have won our first


    battle!"


    Janice also smiled, her face illuminated with the first resplendent smile of the day, "Aaliyah, I see hope


    now. I will pursue my sister''s case, and I don''t believe Irving is innocent!"


    Gevena quickly reassured her, "Your main task now is to get well soon. Don''t forget, you have a baby


    now!"


    Baber, also with a grin, looked at Janice with doting eyes, patting her cheek, "Get well soon! You have


    me! I won''t let you fight alone this time!"


    Suddenly, I got a vision of Ronan. I had to admit, there was something very alluring about a man''s


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    protective words.


    At this moment, I understood why Janice chose Baber. She was the wisest woman.


    Those who truly cared for their wives were the real men. And Baber was definitely powerful. He could


    bring Janice much more than just safety and glory.


    "By the way," I continued, "Irving was bragging to me earlier that he and Jan are working closely


    together to be the biggest shareholder of Medsafe Liyah Inc. There¡¯s a celebration tonight at their


    headquarters, we''ll find out then if their coboration is genuine." I don''t hide this news from Janice.


    Gevena pondered for a moment, "So you''re going back for the party, aren''t you?"


    "Yes, but I can leave Hannah here to take care of Jta!" I quickly offered.


    Janice immediately responded, "That won''t be necessary. I hired two reliable nurses yesterday. They


    should be here any moment now. Also, Baber, fearing I would worry, has made our home caretaker


    here. That should be enough!"


    "Good. Dr. Dailey, whom Catherine found, also promised to ensure Jta¡¯s safety and arrange


    everything for us." I then looked at Catherine, "Catherine, you take care of this!"


    "No problem! Leave it to me!" Catherine immediately assured.


    "I won''t stay longer then. I need to get going. There''s a lot to do. I need to prepare for the celebration


    tonight." I bid farewell to Janice and Gevena casually, "Once I finish with all the work tonight, I''lle


    and see you tomorrow. Call me if you need anything!"


    "Don''t worry! Gevena, could you see Aaliyah off?" Janice looked at Gevena.


    "Mr. Forrest, I''ll take my leave now. Congrattions on bing a father! It''s going to be quite a


    journey!" I teased Baber as I turn to leave.


    As expected, Baber smiled broadly, his eyes gleaming, "Thanks! I''m very happy! I''ll try my best!"


    Catherine followed me out, saying she wanted to check on Jta''s room one more time before


    leaving.


    When we returned to Jta''s room, the nurses Janice arranged had already arrived. The caretaker


    and Catherine knew each other and started exchanging pleasantries.


    Hannah and I, not wanting to dy any further, made our exit.


    As soon as we left the hospital, Ronan''s call came in. I was surprised at how timely his call was.


    I answered and he immediately asked, "Have you left the hospital?"


    I was taken aback. How did he know I had just left?


    I teased at him, "Have you gained a superpower? You knew the moment I left!"


    He chuckled, "You''re not wrong, I''m keeping a close eye on you. Can''t let you out of my sight."


    His words pleased me and I couldn''t help but smile, my cheek slightly red. His words set my mind


    racing, my heart pounding.


    "Erm... I''m on my way home. Jan finally signed the deal and there''s a celebration tonight. I need to


    get ready!" I changed the subject to hide my embarrassment.

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    "Take it easy, get some rest when you get home!" His tone was far from pleased, as if my attendance at


    this victory party was an annoyance.


    I quickly reassured him, "I''m fine. Besides, what can I do next to prevent him from shuffling the funds


    around again? I need to be prepared, to stop him from tampering with the money!"


    Hearing my concern, Ronan couldn''t help but chuckle, bluntly remarking, "You''re quite the money-


    grubber, aren''t you? Didn''t realize that before. Who''ve you been hanging around withtely, hmm?


    Money on the brain much?"


    "Ronan, you sure know how to throw a punch!" I retorted. "So what if I''m money-minded? It''s not like


    this is something new. Would you just stand by and watch someone swindle hard-earned money from


    you?"


    I had raised my voice a bit too much, and even Hannah, who was driving, gave me a nce. I could


    feel my face flushing instantly.


    Ronan seemed to find the whole situation amusing,ughing heartily and asserting, "Absolutely not!


    Why should I? If it were me, I''d have his hands chopped off for daring to touch my money!"


    His retort got meughing loudly, almost forgetting where I was, "That''s more like it, you''re ruthless!"


    It felt like we were back to our old days! Our banter always led to fits ofughter.


    After theughter subsided, I tried to steer the conversation back to the serious issue at hand, "But


    seriously, I''m worried about not being able to secure it. It was such a struggle to get it back."


    He sobered up as well, offering me aforting assurance, "No need to worry. I''ve got your back! I''ll


    make sure it''s well protected. We cane up with a hundred reasons to keep him from moving the


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    money again. And rest assured, the other payment should being through soon."


    "Wait¡­ what? The other payment?" I was taken aback.


    He coolly replied, "Didn''t you set a trap for Jessica Dawson too?"


    "Oh! You know about that too?" I was instantly energized. "But that one''s a long game. We have to wait


    for her to fall into it."


    "She''s already eager, nning on dipping into thepany''s funds. I doubt anyone could stop her


    now!" Ronan seemed to take a perverse pleasure in this revtion.


    I quickly questioned him, "Are you instigating this?"


    "I''m just helping you get your money back! You set the trap, I help you and collect the money. We''re a


    perfect team!" His light-hearted jibe had us bothughing again.


    I replied, "You''re quite the heartbreaker, aren''t you?" I finished my sentence, eyes twinkling with


    amusement, feeling very satisfied!


    If things had always been like this, without the unexpected disappearance, would I have had to suffer


    so much?


    I was just about to tease him some more when he got busy and had to hang up after giving me a few


    instructions.


    I turned to Hannah and asked, "How did you guys track me down?"


    Hannah replied with a smile, "We tracked your phone so that we could see where you were at any


    time!"


    Now I understood. It was such a simple solution, yet I was oblivious like a person from a bygone era. I


    was truly out of touch.


    I wondered why Hannah hadn''t called me earlier when I was at the hospital. She knew exactly where I


    was and managed to find me without any issues. Turns out, they had tracked my phone!


    Hannah was earnest when she said, "Miss, always remember to keep your phone charged and never


    switch it off. That way, even if you''re in danger, we can locate you immediately!"


    I nodded in agreement, "Alright, I''ll keep that in mind!"


    Suddenly, I remembered the reason why I had Hannah go out and I asked her, "By the way, where did


    ra go after you followed her?"


    "She went straight back to Medsafe Liyah Inc. That''s why I returned to the hospital to find you!"


    Hannah''s answer left me a bit disappointed.


    "ra is bing a bit of a threat. She knows too much!" I couldn''t help sharing my concern with


    Hannah.


    Unconcerned, Hannah simply said, "We''ll just keep an eye on her!"


    "But how?" I asked, looking at her.

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    Hearing my query, Hannah nced at me, "I''ll have someone keep tabs on her. We''ll figure out her


    routine in a few days!"


    "Not a bad idea. That girl is quite smart, never ying by the rules! It''s necessary to have some


    control!" My heart sank every time I thought of ra''s unpredictable characteristics.


    As soon as we got home, the property management staff followed us in, asking about the window


    repairs. I told them to get someone over immediately.


    Otherwise, looking at the gaping hole where the window used to be, I felt like it was an open wound,


    unsettling to the core.


    This home had always been mybor of love, but my emotions were different now.


    In the past, I was a dutiful and considerate wife, always wanting to create more opportunities for Jan


    to shine outside, hoping to elevate his stature.


    Now, I wanted to transform this home into a warm haven for my children and me, our fortress of


    strength. I yearned for the day Jan would regret leaving us.


    Hannah watched as the property management staff worked on the window. I took this chance to call my


    father, assuming Jan would be reaching out to him soon.


    The moment the call connected, my father answered, "Sweetheart!"


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I got straight to the point, "Dad, the overseas contract is settled. I predict we''ll be back in Silverdale City


    soon!"


    "Jan has already shared the good news!" My father''s voice was full of confidence, "This is a positive


    development."


    "I bet Jan has a spy in VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be this aggressive!" I


    always had a hunch that Jan had targeted VitalAxis, "Dad, have someone reliable check if there''s


    someone named Daniel in VitalAxis!"


    "There is, he''s an external pharmaceutical agent!" My father said assuredly, "He''s been there for a


    year! I have all his information."


    "No wonder!" I chuckled before continuing, "Dad, Jan is involving another pharmaceuticalpany


    this time, Elixir Pharma Limited from Goldenvale Town!"


    I told my father, "Seems like Jan came prepared!"


    "Then let''s follow his lead! I''ll make sure they see the potential, worstes to worst, we''ll take over


    Irving¡¯s business!" My father''s words took me by surprise, and images of Jta and Nettie appeared


    in my mind.


    "If Irving proves untrustworthy or overly ambitious, we can simply take it over. That would further fortify


    our stronghold in Goldenvale Town." My father''s audacity amazed me, thinking a perfect solution to any


    form of resistance.


    "Dad, let me think about this!" I told my father, "There''s something about Elixir Pharma Limited! Let''s


    not be hasty. I''ll dig around at the party in ourpany tonight."


    "Alright, let''s see how far Jan''s ambition stretches!" My father was unppable, "He just got the hang


    of mechanics, and now he wants a piece of the pharmaceutical pie, he''s quite daring!"


    "Ha... The key is that VitalAxis has ties to the Wilburn family. Whatever the Wilburn family has, he


    wants a piece of it!" I said scornfully and indignantly. Then both my father and I fell silent.


    I was truly remorseful, it felt like I''d let a wolf in sheep''s clothing into our family, inviting trouble.


    "Don''t be too hard on yourself! If he wants to swallow our family, he''d better have a strong enough


    bite!" My father''s voice had a dark edge.


    "Dad... I can''t even imagine... If it weren''t for you, the Wilburn family..." my voice trailed off.


    "Honey, you''re doing great. Even without me, you''d manage!"


    "Are the three kids causing trouble?" I changed the topic, not wanting to continue this heavy


    conversation.


    "Of course not, they''re doing great! The two older ones are helping with the Oldtown Avenue survey.


    They''re enthusiastic and motivated!" My father''sughter was particrly infectious when talking about


    the children.


    "What are they surveying?" I asked.

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    Chapter 231


    I overheard my dad talking about the kids getting involved in some sort of surveying project, and it took


    me aback. I couldn''t help but ask him about it.


    My dad was quick to fill me in, "They''re learning about the history of Oldtown Avenue, the size and


    location of each house, how long each family has been living here¡­"


    "You''re having them do this?" I was taken aback, "They''re just kids!"


    "You''re underestimating them," my dad confidently responded. "They''re the future, you know, and their


    brains are capable of far more than you might think. Just wait and see what theye up with!"


    "Wow, dad... You really think big!" This really surprised me. I couldn''t even begin to imagine what that


    would look like.


    "Just you wait and see!" he said confidently. "They won''t disappoint you. They''re already equipped for


    this. After all, Oldtown Avenue is their future too, they might as well start getting to know every inch of it


    now. They''ll be the ones to continue its story!"


    My dad''s words got me cheer up. I couldn''t wait to fly back to Silverdale City to see how my kids were


    doing.


    "By the way, dad, I might bring another kid back with me - Fidelia Dawson. Do you remember her?" I


    felt the need to give my dad a heads up, not because I was afraid he wouldn''t ept her, but to


    prepare myself.


    "Seems familiar. The quiet, well-behaved one from their oldest son, right?" My dad''s memory was


    always good.


    "That''s right, you remember correctly. I ran into Cami today, and she told me that Fidelia is often


    alone at home and feels lonely. I mentioned Silverdale City, and she seemed okay with the idea. She''s


    a good woman, doesn''t get along with the Dawsons, and can¡¯t look after Fidelia. She''s been having


    some health issuestely, and I feel sorry for her," I exined.


    "Well, bring her along then. The vacation has just started! It''s good for the kids to spend time together.


    They''re family after all. They''re the ones who will inherit this world, so the more rtives, the better."


    As expected, my dad epted the idea without anyints and even supported me.


    I couldn''t help but think of Evan Dawson, and I felt a pang of sadness. I wondered how he was doing,


    with his mom gone and no idea where he was now. He was a poor kid as well.


    With that thought, I lost my enthusiasm andzily told my dad over the phone, "I''ll hang up now.


    Whether Fideliaes or not depends on her. If she wants to, I''ll bring her."


    "Good, don''t force her," my dad said affectionately, and then he quickly asked, "Oh, have they found


    that kid yet?"


    "Not yet," I said, feeling a bit heartbroken. "The police are doing their best."


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    My dad didn''t say anything else, and we ended the call.


    Holding my phone, I paced around the room for a while, picturing Evan''s chubby, innocent face.


    I took a deep breath, forcing myself not to think about it. Some things were out of my control.


    Then I thought about Irving Bradlee. I wasn''t afraid of any tricks he might y with Jan Dawson, but


    I was worried about something else.


    What if - and I''m just saying what if - Irving did something to Jta Makynzie? How would I deal with


    the situation with Irving then?


    I needed to n ahead. I didn''t want to have a falling out with the Makynzie sisters over this, so I had


    to be prepared for it.


    What I didn''t expect was that my concerns would soon be a reality, creating a huge uproar. But


    that''s a story for another time.

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    The thought of those mortgaged contracts suddenly hit me, and I hurriedly spun on my heels towards


    the study. I found the key and opened the safe, only to find it empty. Just as I had suspected, the


    contracts were indeed gone.


    For good measure, I rang up my friend who worked at the bank to double-check things for me. She told


    me that the repayment process was actually set in motion a week ago, and the final procedures were


    justpleted yesterday.


    I asked her to keep a special eye on my ount and notify me immediately of any activity. Having dealt


    with banks multiple times, I knew their procedures well. Large transactions needed appointments, so


    there would be enough time to prepare.


    She told me that each bank had its own rules, and her bank recently introduced a new one. Customers


    who had just repaid their mortgage needed to wait a full payment cycle before they could apply for


    another one.


    So, there would be no new mortgages in the near future!


    Upon hearing this, I breathed a sigh of relief. The wait would be stress-free for me, and I wouldn''t give


    Jan any chance to act.


    When I returned downstairs, I found the new ss installed. My heart lightened.


    I checked the time and called Catherine, asking her if she was going to the celebration party tonight.


    "Of course, I''m going! I can''t miss such a big event. I just got thepany''s invitation to dress up and


    show up," she replied immediately.


    I chuckled, "Then I am heading to the salon, do you want to join?"


    "Absolutely! Who will entertain you if I''m not there? I need to cover you in case something happens!"


    She replied, teasingly. "Which one? Mane Event?"


    I nodded in agreement. Catherine was always the best wing woman for things I couldn''t handle myself.


    "Alright, I''ll book it now, and then head out with Hannah!" I replied.


    "Sounds good! I''lle straight from the hospital!" Catherine hung up after that.


    As regr customers and premium members of Mane Event, we were greeted by professional stylists


    upon arrival.


    I had my short hair trimmed and got my makeup done to match my champagne-colored dress.


    Catherine arrived before I was even done.


    She gave me an appraising look and pointed at my dress, "You''re the bossdy, aren''t you dressing a


    bit too in?"


    I looked at myself in the mirror and retorted, "in? Does a bossdy need to be all mmed up? I


    prefer to keep it simple, since I''m not fighting for attention."


    Bob, the stylist, chuckled at my response. When I gave him a look, he quickly covered up hisughter.


    "Champagne is a color of elegance. Its understated luxury suits yourplexion perfectly. Combined


    with your chic short hair, it''s definitely a fashion-forward look."


    I smirked, "You guys are too sweet. This dress is something I bought a while ago. I was in a rush today


    and didn''t have time to shop. I''m just showing up, why should I dress up like a peacock?"


    Catherine snorted, "Well, you never know. Your husband Dawslug has his own fan club, you think you


    can keep a low profile?"


    I red at her through the mirror and she quickly shut up, realizing her slip.


    Catherine is like my other half, always speaking her mind. The fact is, most people in the beauty


    industry knew Jan.


    He was a model example of a sessful transformation and rapid rise, a famous figure in the


    Goldenvale Town beauty industry. Everyone knew his Cindere story of marrying me and his sudden


    rise to fortune. It was the hottest gossip among them.


    Many were envious of his good luck, feeling off-bnce whenever they saw him. Jan was always


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    proud of his story, and whenever he came to the salon, he was dressed in his finest - as if he was


    about to walk the runway at Fashion Week.

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    Sure thing, everyone knew that I was Jan''s wife.


    Gossip is the spice of life, and who wouldn''t want to see the woman who managed to snatch Jan


    from the jaws of hardship?


    Therefore, I was certain that I had be the talk of the town.


    Catherine''s words earlier were filled with juicy information, sure to fuel the gossip mills. By tonight''s


    celebration at the town hall, I bet all of Goldenvale Town would know about Jan''s sess.


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Catherine knew she had let slip too much and smirked, quickly changing the topic to choosing her


    dress - a gradient, strapless gown - and left the rest to the stylist.


    Hannah, my bodyguard, dressed in a dignified, ck evening dress.


    Before we could finish our preparations, Jan came in with a swagger, dressed in a tailored suit and a


    white silk shirt underneath. His hair was slicked back, and he looked as radiant as a morning sun.


    His entrance drew all eyes to him, especially the women in the salon, who looked at him with awe and


    admiring. The familiar faces in the salon, mostly workers he knew, approached him with a mix of


    emotions, greeted him, and showered him withpliments.


    They sat him down for a quick trim and style. The entire salon was bustling with excitement.


    I watched them quietly, knowing that when Jan falls from grace, these same people would be the


    first to throw stones.


    But being the queen bee, I knew they''d bend over backward to please me, no matter what they said


    behind my back.


    Such was human nature.


    When it was time, Jan looked like a seasoned actor, ready to take the stage. I have to admit, he did


    look dashing. But beneath that charming exteriory a rotten soul.


    I couldn''t help but wonder why I was so naive to fall for his charm and be trapped in this gilded cage he


    built for me.


    I quickly averted my eyes, not wanting to give him any more attention.


    But Jan, charmingly approached me and took my hand, "Honey, let me see... Wow! You''re still the


    most beautiful woman here. Isn''t that right, boys?"


    Of course, they agreed, "Absolutely! Jan, you''re a lucky man!"


    "Of course, our Allie, is the best gift that life has given me!" Jan said, looking at me fondly. If you


    didn''t know any better, you''d think he was genuinely in love.


    I forced a smile, pushed him away and said, "There you go again, always flirting. Let''s get going!"


    Jan, beaming, wrapped his arm around my waist and led me outside to his luxury car. As we drove


    off, he turned to the salon staff and said, "Keep the tab open. I''ll settle it at the end of the month."


    As we drove off, he leaned back in his seat, a look of satisfaction on his face. I ignored him and looked


    out the window. The setting sun was casting a warm glow on the city skyline.


    A sense of excitement washed over me. The next act was about to begin!

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    My gaze traveled beyond the car window, catching sight of the skyscraper housing Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    from a distance.


    This skyscraper, andmark in the Goldenvale Town''s business district, stood proud and tall in Century


    Square. Severalrge-scalepanies were housed in this building, with Medsafe Liyah Inc. currently


    upying three floors.


    Choosing this location initially took a good deal of effort. Century Square had only just been developed,


    and it was somewhat on the outskirts of Goldenvale Town.


    What I had my eyes on were the building''s amenities. There were over a dozenrge and small


    multifunctional meeting rooms, perfect for all sorts of cocktail parties, productunches, business


    negotiations, and corporate gatherings. No need to hunt for other venues!


    In our line of business, we frequently hold these kinds of corporate gatherings and productunches. If


    we had to find a venue each time, not only would it be physically exhausting, but also a significant drain


    on our resources, increasing our costs invisibly. However, the overall rent here was a bit steep.


    At that time, Addrion and I had visited many ces and had multiple discussions, but none were as


    ideal as this location. Despite being a bit off-center, it was conveniently essible and still developing,


    brimming with potential.


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    Back then, we didn''t have as much business and only rented one floor.


    Later, we did some calctions. Although the rent was higher, we would save a lot on other services.


    Addrion and I agreed, gritted our teeth, and signed the contract.


    After paying the rent, we were financially tight!


    That was the first time Jan and I had a disagreement. He said I was too rash, neglecting our family


    and potentially plunging us into financial difficulties.


    It is easy to go from frugality to extravagance, but the reverse is challenging. Of course, he didn''t want


    to return to the old days. I entirely understood his viewpoint, so I tried to persuade him for several days,


    but he remained downcast for a long time.


    When the Dawsons found out, they frowned upon me, using me of being wasteful and overly


    ambitious. That''s when the rift between Hazel and me began.


    But a yearter, we didn''t plunge our family into hardship. Addrion and I took a leap of faith and rented


    the second floor, solidifying Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s foothold in Goldenvale Town. The third floor was


    Jan''s achievement.


    But they said I was overly ambitious at that time!


    I''ve always remembered these words, the arrogance in Hazel''s voice when she said it that day at the


    Dawson''s, and how the entire family ganged up against me, making me feel utterly alone.


    But look at the Dawsons now, who amongst them doesn''t fit the description?


    If it weren''t for my ''overly ambitious'' drive back then, the Dawsons wouldn''t be as smug as they are


    today.


    Thinking of this, I let out a long sigh.


    The car had already pulled into the building''s parking lot. I got out, looked up at the towering


    skyscraper, and was filled with a multitude of emotions!


    Jan moved closer to me, his hand resting on my waist. He too looked up at the building and said


    with deep affection, ¡°In the future, I will get the whole building for you!¡±


    His grand words were indeed inspiring, but they no longer moved my heart!


    I looked at him sideways and smiled, ¡°What I want isn¡¯t a skyscraper!¡± Saying so, I walked ahead of


    him into the building!


    In my heart, I scoffed, Jan, you''ll never catch up with me!


    Today''s celebratory banquet was held in the grand hall on the top floor, offering a bird''s eye view of half


    of Goldenvale Town!


    But, as soon as I walked in, I was speechless. What caught my eye were the Dawsons, everywhere. It


    was indeed a celebratory banquet, a Dawson celebratory banquet!


    The first person I saw was Hazel, for she was incredibly eye-catching amidst the crowd...

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    Chapter 235


    Hazel''s get-up was something I couldn''t help butment on. It was incredibly eye-catching, if nothing


    else.


    Her red dress was clinging to her Michelin Man-like physique. It wasn''t outlining her figure, but rather


    emphasized mounds of bby flesh, like stacks of car tires. I had to admit, she could easily be the


    poster child for Michelin tires.


    Her height waspensated by her hair, styled so high that I wondered which stylist had the audacity


    to design such an outrageous look. Straw-colored tresses coiled high and swarming with an excess of


    gold and emerald baubles, she resembled a queen from a bygone era that had time-travelled to the


    present day.


    Hazel was the host for the evening, and she was certainly dressed to blind everyone with her garish


    get-up!


    Her boisterousughter echoed in the hall, lingering in the air!


    Catherine was taken aback, staring at Hazel. She didn''t care whether Jan was by her side or not,


    she blurted out, "Oh, sweet baby Jesus! Did I walk into the wrong ce? Is this a dating reception for


    seniors?"


    Hearing herment, I nearly broke intoughter.


    Indeed, Hazel''s bright red outfit was rather audacious. The man apanying Hazel was Farley


    Dawson, dressed in a dark pinstripe suit. If my memory served me right, it was Jan''s discarded one


    from years ago. However, it was definitely from a high-end brand.


    However, on Farley, it looked rather awkward.


    Jan, of course, heard Catherine''sment and frowned slightly, then followed her gaze to Hazel


    with a smirk.


    I chuckled to myself, let her go all out tonight. It would be a night she would never forget!


    As Jan and I stepped into the hall, all eyes were on us. I could feel Jan''s posture straightening


    instantly, transforming into his catwalk mode, asionally nodding at the people around us.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Jessica Dawson, wearing a stunning backless evening gown, was busy chatting with a group ofdies.


    Hearing themotion, she turned her head towards us and waved, her wrist glinting with a dazzling


    bracelet.


    It gave me an impression: this wasn''t some business celebration, but more like a tacky jewelry


    exhibition. No matter how good the jewelry was on them, it lowered the grade.


    In the crowd, Jerome stood out among the men, his slicked-back hair impably styled. He held a


    ss of red wine in one hand while the other was tucked in his pocket, his gaze sweeping over the


    crowd with an intimidating re.


    As Jesper and Caleb approached, Jan immediately went to meet them.


    Today was all about Medsafe Liyah Inc. The city''s top officials were all in attendance, putting the


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. staff in a flurry of activity, serving at the party.


    Among the crowd, I could see ra Rhylee, dressed in a white dress, serving as a guide.


    Caleb, the deputy director, in his crisp suit, greeted us warmly. He then turned to Jan and reported,


    "Mr. Dawson, the mayor just called. Officials want to use our Medsafe Liyah Inc. signing celebration to


    bid farewell to the foreign delegation. So, not only are there going to be more guests tonight, but we


    also have two additional items on the agenda, including speech from the mayor. We need to


    cooperate."


    "Of course, we need to cooperate, it''s an honor for Medsafe Liyah Inc. Others wouldn''t even be able to


    invite them. Let''s add it to the program. Has the emcee arrived?" Jan asked, scanning the hall.


    The party was in full swing, with morous women and socialites mingling about.


    Jesper shook his head, "Not yet! Brother, you should give her a call and urge her to hurry up. She''s


    putting on airs, not considering the asion."


    Jan looked at me with a ''see how busy I am'' expression.


    Before he could say anything, I unhanded his arm with a gentle smile, "You go ahead. I''ll take a look


    around!"


    "Catherine, take care of Allie for me. Make sure she gets plenty of rest!" Jan instructed Catherine,


    seeming to have forgotten their previous disagreements.


    Catherine yed along, shing a bright smile and giving him a ''thumbs up'' gesture, "Don''t worry! I''ll


    make sure of it!"


    Saying that, she walked towards the hall with Hannah and me.


    I suspected, he was going to see the emcee.


    Catherine seemed to have the same thought and whispered to me, "I bet he¡¯s going to meet a woman!"

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    Chapter 236


    I chuckled and gave her a sidelong nce, "Don''t spill the beans. Show some ss, won''t you?"


    "Damn, Ick ss? Just you wait and see!" Catherine taunted me with a raised eyebrow, "I know him


    very well."


    Hannah and I couldn''t hold back ourughter.


    Then, she yfully nudged me and whispered, "Three o''clock."


    I nced at the direction Catherine mentioned and to my surprise, it was Irving''s wife, Olivia!


    "It seems Irving has made his appearance!" I murmured, then turned to Catherine, "Try to dig


    something out from this Olivia. She wants to coborate closely with Medsafe Liyah Inc., doesn¡¯t she?


    Let''s find out what that means!"


    "Roger that!" Catherine epted the task, and we moved towards them.


    Sure enough, Olivia immediately spotted me, her target, and quickly left the group she was chatting


    with to approach us.


    From a distance, she beamed and called out, "Oh, Mrs. Dawson! I''ve been waiting for you for a long


    time, finally I see you! I knew you''de, this is the Dawson family''s turf after all!"


    I smiled and replied warmly, "Just call me Aaliyah! In this kind of setting, it might cause confusion!" I


    pointed at Hazel, "How could I steal the limelight from my mother-inw!"


    Olivia immediately giggled, seemingly bridging the distance between us.


    "Aaliyah, you''re truly modest!"


    "Mrs. Bradlee, where''s your husband?" Catherine intentionally asked, craning her neck to look around.


    "He''s discussing some matters with the city officials. We came quite early!" Olivia quickly exined,


    "After all, today is a big day!"


    "I heard that you and Irving have some ns today?" Catherineid a trap for Olivia, pretending to be


    all-knowing.


    "Ha, ...Ms. Damon, how do you know everything?" As expected, Olivia was intrigued by Catherine''s


    words. She didn''t want to be left out. Now that the word was out, if she didn¡¯t say something, she would


    lose her spotlight, and that would be terribly embarrassing!


    She added smugly, "Irving has been wanting to join hands with Mr. Dawson! Who would''ve thought,


    you knew about it just as things started to take shape?"


    "Hey! ...I heard it from a little bird. I¡¯m not certain if it''s true, so I thought of asking you since you would


    have the most urate answer! After all, you''re Irving''s real boss!"


    Upon hearing this, Olivia was clearly pleased. She yfully nudged Catherine, "Oh stop it, I don''t


    bother myself with his business! Irving prefers that I stay out of it, saying that making money is his job,


    and I just need to enjoy my life!"


    "Enough with the PDA! Can''t you let a single woman like me catch a break?" Catherine praised her on


    the face of it, but in reality, she was cursing under her breath, "You''re really blessed, and it''s so


    frustrating topare with you!"


    "Hey! Not really. I am naturallyid-back, unlike you strong women. I envy you! Besides, you''re the only


    one I''d share this with, and I wouldn''t want to bber about it to others." Olivia''s sweet talk clearly


    indicated where her loyaltyy.


    "Is it true? Are they really going to join hands?" Catherine pushed further, "Then you guys will be on the


    same side!"


    Olivia was clearly pleased with thisment and immediately replied, "Irving and Mr. Dawson want to


    expand their scale, right? Mr. Dawson also hopes to have a seat in the pharmaceutical industry!


    Besides, cancer drugs are quite profitable, who wouldn''t want a slice of that cake!"


    As soon as she finished her sentence, I exchanged a look with Catherine, an unspoken understanding


    between us.


    Sure enough, they were aiming at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. My father hadn''t officially discussed the


    project with Jan yet, but this woman already knew it was about cancer drugs.


    It''s clear that the old fox in my parents¡¯ house was working. She passed on the conversation between


    my father and Bet Richardson. While Irving and Jan had already nned their strategy. No


    wonder Irving looked so confident today!


    I turned to Olivia and whispered, "Irving is slicker than buttered bread, always chasing after the sizzling


    bacon. You''d better be careful since it is still a project discussion phase and it''s confidential. Beware of


    others exploiting this. Besides, the budget investment is not small, and we don''t know who will get it.


    So, don''t jump the gun, or we just might end up shooting ourselves in the foot if we can''t clinch the


    deal!"All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

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    Chapter 237


    My tone of speech was incredibly familiar, making it sound as if I wasn¡¯t treating Olivia as an outsider,


    but rather like a member of my own family.


    A smile spread across Olivia¡¯s face and she wrapped her hand around my arm, ¡°Aaliyah, don¡¯t worry! I


    know my limits. We¡¯re all friends here, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, and it¡¯s because we¡¯re friends that I¡¯m warning you!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my lips are sealed!¡± She boasted, somewhat smug.


    I stifled a scoff, ¡®sealed lips¡¯ was not something I had observed from her!


    ¡°When is Nettie heading back?¡± I asked casually, hinting at my extensive knowledge about the Bradlee


    family. I needed to get a read on this Nettie. There was more to her than meets the eye.


    Olivia took the bait and quickly replied, ¡°Well, she decided not to leave, she wants to stay and work


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    here!¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ did she graduate?¡± I asked, feigning surprise. ¡°Well, your easy days are over then.¡±


    Olivia shot a wary look at me. I immediately pped my hand over my mouth, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have said


    that!¡±


    She nudged my arm, ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. We don¡¯t have secrets between us. As for Nettie¡­ well, she hasn¡¯t


    spent much time here. We barely know each other. Her sudden decision to return was quite a surprise,


    and I was not prepared for it at all!¡±


    ¡°How does she get along with her father?¡± Catherine cut to the chase.


    ¡°They get along fine, I suppose. After all, he¡¯s spent a ton of money on her!¡± Olivia¡¯s voice betrayed her


    true feelings.


    ¡°She¡¯s not home, what could he possibly spend money on!¡± Catherine retorted.


    ¡°You think studying abroad for several years is cheap?¡± Olivia shot back, clearly not pleased.


    ¡°It¡¯s normal. She is Irving¡¯s daughter after all. If he doesn¡¯t spoil her, then who would do so?¡± Catherine


    had a ready answer.


    ¡°Does her decision to stay here have anything to do with her mother?¡± I asked, bombarding her with


    questions from both sides, leaving her no room to think.


    ¡°I doubt it. She doesn¡¯t seem to care much about her mother. She¡¯s quite indifferent to everyone,


    really¡­¡± Olivia trailed off, a grimace on her face.


    ¡°So, she¡¯s quite savvy.¡± Catherine quickly filled the silence.


    Olivia turned to her, ¡°Why would you say that?¡±


    ¡°Well, she¡¯s quite sensible. She even came back to celebrate your birthday. That¡¯s not too bad!¡± I


    chimed in, surprising her.


    Sure enough, Olivia looked at me, her features surprised, ¡°Aaliyah, you really see everything, don¡¯t


    you? How did you know about that?¡±


    I replied in a hushed voice, ¡°I just happened to be at the hospital when Janice gave birth to a son, didn¡¯t


    you know?¡±


    ¡°I did hear about that. She had a premature birth, didn¡¯t she?¡± Olivia tossed her head dismissively,


    ¡°That family is so annoying, always clinging to Irving. It¡¯s ridiculous. My son is several years old and


    they¡¯re still going on about it.¡±


    Catherine and I exchanged nces. Catherine was the first to speak, ¡°Well, the problem is that Irving


    just can¡¯t let go. He¡¯s divorced, and he should just move on!¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t really argue with that. Irving is just like that, he¡¯s too sentimental. He always feels like he owes


    her something!¡± Olivia looked distressed.


    ¡°Is there something he can¡¯t let go of?¡± I interjected.


    ¡°No way!¡± Olivia sprang up as if she had been stung by a bee. Realizing she had overreacted, she


    quickly tried tough it off, ¡°There¡¯s nothing he can¡¯t let go of. He¡¯s just like that. I always feel that the


    one who is not loved should leave. It¡¯s no fun for anyone to keep dragging it on.¡±


    Annoyed by Olivia''s words, Catherine rolled her eyes at her. I quickly signaled her to calm down, then


    turned to Olivia, ¡°Well, everyone has their own perspective on these matters.¡±


    ¡°Come on, Aaliyah, am I wrong?¡± Oliviained, ¡°I usually don¡¯t bother arguing with them, and I


    don¡¯t want to trouble Irving either.¡±


    Iughed to myself, thinking that she had a high opinion of herself. Irving was not someone she could


    trouble. I suspected that the only reason he married her in the first ce was because she gave him a


    son!


    ¡°Why would troubling him do any good? If there¡¯s no love left, they should just split. Irving has done


    more than enough. Jta can barely keep herself alive, and it¡¯s Irving who¡¯s paying for her medical


    bills. I have noints about that. He¡¯s spent a fortune over the years!¡±


    ¡°He could just stop paying!¡± Catherine couldn¡¯t hold back, ¡°What¡¯s he thinking?¡±

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    Chapter 238


    Olivia seemed to pick up on the tone in Catherine''s voice, raising her gaze to meet her''s, "I don''t really


    know what he''s thinking, but if he wants to take it, let him. There''s always an end to everything!"


    Olivia''s words shifted quickly, revealing that she wasn''t saying what she truly meant.


    "Nettie''s back, so there''s an extra pair of hands to help Irving!" I metaphorically sprinkled some salt on


    Olivia''s wounds, attempting to provoke her.


    As expected, Olivia was quick to respond, "She should just get married and leave the business affairs


    alone. They''re no ce for her!"


    I gave her a calm smile, knowing that this was Olivia''s true thoughts. This proved that Olivia was


    resistant to Nettie''s return.


    Upon hearing Olivia''s words, Catherine couldn''t help but retort, "Give me a break! Don''t forget that the


    foundation of Elixir Pharma Limited wasid by her mother. You know what they say, like mother like


    daughter. She''s been studying abroad for years, managing apany shouldn''t be a problem!"


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "You can''t just say that, sheid the foundation? Even if her small clinic had some effect, but when they


    agreed to divorce, Irving didn''t leave her empty-handed. Who''s to me for her car ident?" Olivia,


    eager to win the argument, began to dispute with Catherine heedlessly.


    However, I could glean a wealth of information from her words.


    ¡°It seems that the terms of Irving and Jta''s divorce were negotiated. But how? Only Irving and


    Jta would know. It''s no wonder Irving is so nervous now that Jta is waking up; there must be


    some some devil in the details of their divorce agreement. But how exactly were the terms negotiated?


    Jta, a brilliant woman, would not easily let Irving off the hook without getting something in return.


    So... the car ident happened only after that?¡± A chill ran down my spine as I considered the


    possibility. This was terrifying! No wonder Janice had always doubted Irving. It wasn''t just baseless


    suspicion!


    My mind was racing, the more I thought about it, the more suspicious Irving seemed. He was far more


    ruthless than Jan.


    Catherine continued to grapple with Olivia, "When Jta divorced Irving, the Bradlee family''s hospital


    was still under Jta''s control. What... what exactly were the terms of their divorce? How did Jta


    suddenly have a car ident? Do you know any details?"


    Catherine, with the air of a gossip queen, pursued Olivia relentlessly.


    I almost apuded Catherine for her quick thinking. These were all questions I wanted to ask, and they


    were all based on information gleaned from Olivia''s words.


    Olivia was somewhat flustered, swallowing before ncing at me, ¡°I''m clueless about that and I don''t


    go poking my nose where it doesn''t belong. Saving myself the trouble!"


    Iughed. Olivia was quite clever herself, managing to sidestep Catherine''s trap.


    "You see, marrying a divorcee brings its own set of problems, with the past and present shing, it''s


    stressful!" Catherine began to make pointedments, aiming straight for Olivia''s heart.


    Then, she delivered another heartfeltment, "You have to be more careful. You don''t want to end up


    dealing with his mistresses. You''re too naive for that."


    Olivia turned pale, knowing that Catherine''s words were harsh but hit the point.


    I gave Catherine a wink, and she understood immediately, "Honestly, I''m saying this for your own good.


    Once a cheater, always a cheater - it''s not about how many times it''s happened, it''s about the principle


    of the matter."


    Olivia''s face turned from pale to red. At this point, the otherdies who had been watching us converse


    closely joined in.


    Catherine, now more animated, continued her speech like a rtionship expert, "Think about it, men


    who cheat are like they''ve unlocked their hidden potential. Whenever they see a beautiful woman, they


    see the romantic date on the bank of Seine. They are bound to cheat both physically and mentally."


    Thedies who had just joined us didn''t know the background, but they erupted intoughter hearing


    Catherine''s words.


    "Ms. Damon, you''re absolutely right!" someone chimed in, "That''s what they call true love!"


    "Men''s words are full of lies. You think that''s true love? Bullshit!" Catherine was even more invigorated


    now, "Actually, there are many types of men. Let me analyze it for you, are you interested?" She


    directed thest question at Olivia.

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    I knew what was happening in my mind that Catherine was starting to stir the pot with Olivia.


    I didn''t stop her. After all, what if Catherine''s actions were like a ticking time bomb, ready to explode at


    any moment? It was certainly a potential threat to Irving.


    As expected, Olivia seemed to be intrigued, but she refused to admit it. Instead, she just stared at


    Catherine, refusing to utter a word.


    Words can betray you, and Olivia was smart enough to realize that.


    The otherdies who had joined us were ready for the drama, with anticipation written all over their


    faces. Nothing draws attention like a scandal involving infidelity and a mistress.


    I nced around and saw Jerome still engrossed in a conversation with a group of men, looking very


    rxed. Jesper was with Caleb the whole time, seeming to trust him a lot.


    Meanwhile, Jessica was in a corner, talking to a man who appeared to be a businessman. She was


    holding a ss of red wine, looking quite focused. The man was hard to forget - he was in his thirties


    but had a head full of silver hair. However, it gave him a distinctive aura.


    As for Hazel, wherever there wasughter, she was there. I was worried she might get too excited and


    have a breakdown. Herughter was so loud that it was impossible to ignore.


    I looked back to see Catherine still firing away, asking thedies, "There are many reasons why men


    seek women. Some do it to carry on their lineage, some for a helping hand, and some for a teammate!


    Which one do you think you are?"


    Thedies seemed to be deep in thought, trying to figure out where they fit in.


    Olivia, at this point, seemed more rxed. After all, all thedies were getting involved, which took the


    spotlight off her.


    I raised an eyebrow, which seemed to encourage Catherine. She continued to speak with confidence,


    persuading thedies.


    My eyes wandered to the entrance, where Jan was chatting with a beautiful woman. They made a


    striking pair. Just then, Hazel, giggling and jiggling, moving her over-weight body to meet them.


    Back to Catherine, she continued, "Don''t think too much about it. Regardless of the reason, if a man


    meets a woman who dares to flirt, he can certainly be tempted."


    Thediesughed and nodded in agreement.


    "But when a man crosses the line and you confront him, you''re used of being unreasonable. The


    man gets away with his actions but you''re the one being hysterical. Am I right?"


    ¡°You nailed it! Who could put up such stuff? Just the other day, I saw a video. In it, a wife busts her man


    using her own car to chauffeur his mistress. She reaches into the car, grabs the mistress''s hair, and


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    doesn''t let go, even as the man actually pulls her along with the car for dozens of yards¡ªand mind


    you, their kids are standing right there, watching it all! What in the world is that about, huh? If you ask


    me, both the temptress and the man are due for a good wallop!¡±


    One of thedies narrated the tale, enhancing it with vivid descriptions.


    "I saw that same video! In the end, the rubberneckers couldn''t take it anymore and pulled both of them


    out of the car! Whether they got a good thrashing or not, I couldn''t tell."


    "Well, they sure had iting, no two ways about it!"


    Catherine then turned to Olivia, ¡°You see, a mistress is nothing more than an appetizer for a man. He


    may seem nd when he''s pursuing you, but after marriage? He bes indifferent. Love? That''s a


    load of bull!¡±


    Olivia''s face turned beet red. She was smart enough to realize that Catherine was indirectly criticizing


    her.


    I never thought Catherine could be so persuasive, even if her words were twisted. But she did make a


    lot of sense. Even I was convinced!


    Catherine continued, ¡°Think about it. If he can discard his faithful wife, what makes you think he won''t


    do the same to you when you age? Men never lose their desire, no matter how old they are. As long as


    they''ve got the strength to lift a bag of potatoes, they still have the appetite!¡±


    Thedies agreed once more, sharing their disgust for unfaithful men andparing the mistresses to


    their rightful wives, with nces towards Olivia.

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    Indeed, Olivia simply couldn''t hold a candle to Jta, who had not only brains but beauty as well. She


    might not be a ssic stunner, but she definitely had more looks than Olivia.


    However, Jta had one w ¨C she was short-sighted. Perhaps that''s why she chose Olivia as her


    bestie in the first ce.


    I sighed, realizing that I was no different, blindly trusting Marissa Collin, only to be stabbed in the back


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    when she gained power.


    "Look at the wives, they''re frugal, scrimping and saving for their husbands. But the mistresses are


    draped in gold, indulging in the finest food and wine! We should all treat ourselves better!" another


    woman chimed in.


    Catherine, arms crossed, agreed, "You''re right. Some say mistresses are nothing but younger versions


    of wives. Regardless of how unattractive the other woman may be, even if she looks like a broken


    te, if there''s an opening, the cheating men will take it!"


    I nearly burst outughing. Catherine''s statement was harsh, but true. I nced around and realized


    that among thedies present, only Olivia had been the other woman.


    "Men often cheat to escape their own loneliness. Affairs are easy, quick, and thrilling. That''s why


    infidelity isn''t love, and it''s just cheap entertainment!" Catherine dered, then sighed, "And it doesn''t


    matter who the other woman is."


    "Why not?" someone asked, confused. "You mean, he would sleep with anyone?"


    "Not anyone, but the cycle continues. You''re with him now, but who knows who''ll be next? Just watch


    and see!" Catherine said with conviction.


    Everyone was excited by her words, except for Olivia, whose face became increasingly pale.


    I thought to myself, Olivia might hate what Catherine was saying, but every word was a direct hit to her


    soft spot. After all, each of Catherine''s words was aimed directly at her.


    People around were also known the truth, so they will join with Catherine singing in concert and


    ming Olivia.


    Hannah, who has been watching the y silently by my side, has been suppressing herughter.


    "If you ask me, if a man has cheated, don''t give him a chance to turn over! He deserves it!" Someone


    said.


    Catherine quickly corrected, "Do you really think that''s love? If he can treat his wife this way, imagine


    what he can do to you, because you''re not worth anything to him! But remember, men are always


    rational. Don''t fool yourself thinking he loves you. He only loves himself!"


    "That''s true, these men only love themselves! Isn''t that why they say a man wants to keep his wife at


    home while having a mistress on the side?"


    ¡°He won¡¯t care if your reputation is ruined. You can''t even wash it off if you want to, and you''ll be sick


    for the rest of your life! If you''re involved in killing a man''s wife, you''re gonna end up just like the one


    who died a few days ago!¡± Catherine mentioned Marissa, and Olivia''s face wentpletely white!


    Just then, amotion at the entrance caught our attention. We all looked over to see a crowd of


    people making way for someone.


    To my surprise, I saw Ronan in the crowd, or should I say, Bet!


    Why is he here?

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    Chapter 241


    I gave Catherine a slight nudge, after she had her fill of chastising. It was time to make our exit!


    I didn''t bother with Olivia''s mood, motioning for Catherine and Hannah to follow me through the crowd.


    As we walked, I turned to Catherine, "You''ve got some nerve! You didn''t even use any explicit words.


    Had your fill of the drama?"


    Catherine, a wicked grin on her face, whispered, "I just wanted to let it simmer a bit. How''s that for a


    ticking time bomb?"


    I shot her a nce, but held back myughter.


    "Boom! Stirred the pot, didn''t I? If I could stir thing up for the Bradlee family and teach that bitch a


    lesson, then it''s all been worth it!" Catherine chuckled mischievously.


    Suppressing myughter, I said, "That''s a Molotov cocktail!"


    We all burst intoughter.


    Hannah chimed in, "But I feel like there''s something off about this Irving guy, and their divorce terms


    are the key!"


    I shot Hannah a quick look, praising, "Smart! But, the truth won''t stay hidden for long. Now that Jta


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    is conscious, all will be revealed!"


    "That should give the mistress something to think about!" Hannahughed, clearly enjoying the


    situation.


    "Let the joke sink in, it''ll hit harder! I just want Irving to be under siege!" Catherine added, then turned to


    me, "Why is Ronan here?"


    "He''s from the Richardson Group, and his name is Bet now!" I quickly whispered, reminding her,


    "Be careful not to mention his name as Ronan. Watch your tongue!"


    Catherine nodded solemnly.


    Just then, I saw Jan weaving through the crowd, making a beeline for us, extending a hand in


    greeting from afar. Interestingly, by his side was the event''s female host!


    Catherine was not pleased, "What the hell is this? Changing his partner on the spot? He''s moving too


    fast, isn''t he? The audacity!"


    I pulled her back a bit, saying, "Shh... let him make a fool of himself."


    "Do you know her?" Catherine asked me.


    "The host?" I replied, "Do you know her?"


    "Hah... know her?" Catherine scoffed, "Of course I do! I was too caught up with Olivia earlier, forgot to


    give you the rundown on her. She''s a TV host from Goldenvale Town, goes by Renata. Quite the drama


    queen! There was a scandal about her a while back, just got swept under the rug, and here she is


    stirring things up again. She really has no shame!"


    "What''s the story?" I asked Catherine in a hushed voice.


    "You haven''t heard about her affair?" Catherine seemed surprised, "You really don''t keep up with the


    gossip, do you?"


    "Who has time for that, constantly stirring the gossip pot to make a living? I don''t have that sort of time!"


    I retorted, slightly annoyed.


    "Hey! If you had the time to dig into this matter, you''d know. She made quite a spectacle of herself.


    Apparently her dress went viral, even had a sh sale! People joked it was the ''mistress cloth''!"


    Catherine revealed, making me wish I could look it up right then and there to understand this drama


    queen.


    "What kind of values are these?" Iined, sure it wasn''t anything good.


    Catherine looked in the direction of Renata and Jan, " Birds of a feather flock together!"


    "Seems they''ve been in cahoots for a while!" I noted, casting a nce at Renata.


    Catherine turned to me, scrutinizing, "You''re just going to see him flirting with that bitch?"


    "Let him. Whoever starts the fire gets burned. You have to give him the opportunity, right?" I reassured


    her, "We just need to keep our distance to avoid getting scorched."


    Upon hearing my nonchnt response and calm expression, Catherine finally rxed, "Let''s just watch


    the drama then! As long as you''re not upset, I''m at ease!"


    "Right, there are still people who won''t stand for this!" I added quietly, noticing Geneva''s figure among


    the crowd.


    Tonight was indeed a celebration. Even the higher-ups were in attendance with their wives.


    In such a setting, anyone who dared to challenge the status quo would face bacsh. I was curious to


    see the consequence of Renata''s impatience.

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    Chapter 242


    It was quite the grand affair today, with the influential figures of the city all gathered under one roof.


    Noah Atwood, Geneva''s husband, was in charge of business affairs, so it was expected that he would


    attend, and naturally, Geneva would apany him.


    This grand event only inted Jan''s already inted ego. Such a gathering was an unexpected


    delight. Medsafe Liyah Inc. had hosted countless parties over the years, but in terms of prestige, this


    one was unrivaled.


    Jan was particrly vivid, his greetings and interactions full of etiquette. He not only gave a


    key executives of thepany.


    The officials seemed pleased, their eyes naturally drifted to Renata, who was inseparable from Jan''s


    side.


    Renata, looking stunning and radiant, was a picture of perfect poise. As the hostess, she yed her


    role to perfection, an exquisite essory to the event.


    Jan quickly introduced Renata to the officials, clearly ustomed to using beauty as a gift.


    But then things took an unexpected turn.


    Mayor Arlen, after listening to Jan''s introduction, gave him a sharp look, and rather than engaging


    with Renata''s friendly smile and extended hand, he asked Jan pointedly, "I''ve heard much about


    your astute and capable wife, who is said to be the true founder of Medsafe Liyah Inc. Why isn''t she


    here today?"


    The mayor''s query caught everyone off guard, including me!


    Jan''s face turned from an exuberant red to a ghostly pale, his smile frozen on his face.


    Ignoring Renata was a prudent move on Mayor Arlen''s part. After all, this was a formal business event


    filled with international guests. Every official was apanied by their spouse, as were the foreign


    guests. In such a setting, it was indeed foolish for Jan to introduce a woman of questionable


    reputation to the mayor.


    Jan''s blunder was not due to ignorance but rather a result of his vanity.


    After all, no man would willingly flirt with another woman in front of his wife, right?


    The mayor, being the top official of Goldenvale Town, would certainly not make such a low level


    mistake, as would any gentleman. Especially in such a formal setting, such a move was tantly


    inappropriate.


    At this moment, I felt a sense of secondhand embarrassment for Jan.


    I kept my eyes on Jan, his smile painfully frozen on his face.


    He quickly scanned the crowd, exining, "She''s here, Mayor Arlen. My wife has been busy greeting


    the guests, oh... there she is...¡± The moment he spotted me, he smiled with relief.


    Renata, who was still standing beside him, followed his gaze towards me.


    With a graceful smile, I walked over, extending my hand, "You tter me, Mayor Arlen. Any sess


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. has achieved is due to the collective effort of all our employees.¡±


    Mayor Arlen''s face lit up with approval as he shook my hand, he then turned to his wife and introduced


    me, "This is the true leader of Medsafe Liyah Inc., a woman who is every bit as capable as any man.


    I''ve heard so much about her, and she''s indeed extraordinary! You should definitely get to know her


    when you have the chance!"


    His introduction undoubtedly drew much attention, with many media cameras focusing on me. It was


    indeed ironic. While I was beingmbasted online, I was hailed as an elite by the mayor here. Isn''t that


    ironic?


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The trantors quickly ryed the mayor''s words to the foreign guests.


    Immediately, exmations of admiration could be heard from the wives of the foreign guests.


    The mayor''s wife, a woman of no ordinary stature, held my hand and smiled, "Indeed, I''ve heard about


    you. You were one of the top ten young entrepreneurs in Goldenvale Town, one of the few women in


    business. I remember you clearly from my time at the city''sbor union!¡±


    Mayor Arlenughed heartily, telling the foreign guests, "Our city, Goldenvale Town, has many young


    female entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions. We have a wealth of talent that should


    not be underestimated!"


    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a glint of darkness sh through Renata''s eyes.

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    After his deration, Mayor Arlen, apanied by a group of followers, briskly stepped inside,


    heading straight for the podium. There was no need for a host; his style was decisive and swift.


    Renata stood there awkwardly, ncing at Jan.


    But Jan had no time for her emotions. He took my hand and followed in the Mayor''s footsteps to the


    front of the stage.


    The celebration party tonight was swarmed with media from all walks of life. After all, this wasn''t just a


    celebration for Medsafe Liyah Inc. but also a thank-you reception for the city''s recent investment


    project.


    Naturally, all the major radio and television stations were present.


    Mayor Arlen ascended the stage and got straight to the point, reporting on the results of the investment


    conference to the media and public below. His speech was brief and concise, presenting only


    sessful data, without a shred of superfluous talk.


    You had to give it to him; Mayor Arlen was a man of action.


    Then, he invited the representative of the foreign guests to share their impressions of Goldenvale Town


    and their investment ns and objectives for cooperation.


    This representative was none other than the Regional CEO of the Wilson Group, who had just signed a


    cooperation contract with Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    He was a hulking, suave andpetent man, his speech making everyone''s eyes gleam. He


    mentioned his strong belief in Goldenvale Town¡¯s investment environment and his desire to build a


    medical transit station here for all of country, and even the world, providing timely treatment for patients


    worldwide.


    So, his primary purpose foring to Goldenvale Town, was to invest in healthcare. He stated that this


    was the Wilson Group''s direction for development in theing years.


    His speech inspired many, not just those in the medical industry, but also those in rted sectors,


    revealing potential business opportunities.


    Attracting a famous consortium like the Wilson Group was undoubtedly a pioneering move for


    Goldenvale Town, naturally leading to a chain reaction.


    I couldn''t help but be shocked. No wonder Ronan was here; his public identity was that of a major


    boss, and he wouldn''t miss an opportunity like this.


    I couldn''t help but nce at him. He was attentively listening to the speech of the Regional CEO of the


    Wilson Group. Noticing my gaze, he turned to look at me. Our eyes met, and I felt a sense of mystery


    about him. He was so unpredictable!


    Honestly, what made him a stranger to me wasn''t just his face, but the experiences he''d had during our


    years apart. His disappearance over those years was extremely intriguing to me.


    He subtly raised an eyebrow at me, prompting me to quickly avert my eyes. After all, in this setting, I


    was supposed to not know him.


    Jan, sitting next to me, was also intently listening to the speech, although his focus was different


    from mine. He leaned in closer and whispered in my ear, "Dear, did you hear that? We''re on board this


    ship now. We''re set for life. Admit it, your husband has an eye for opportunities!"


    His words were so outrageous that I wanted to p him. Couldn''t he show some decency? His ''eye for


    opportunities''? How shameless could he be?


    I nced at him, smiled faintly, and said, "Then make sure to seize this opportunity. It''s easy to get on a


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    big ship, but surviving the storms is the real challenge."


    He wrapped his arm around my waist, confidently saying, "Don''t worry! I won''t miss any opportunity!"


    I didn''t catch what he meant by ''any opportunity''. But the hand he ced on my waist made me stiffen


    instinctively. I was at a point where I found his touch extremely repulsive. Every time he touched me,


    those nauseating images would resurface, making me incredibly ufortable.


    Not to mention, he was infected with a loathsome disease, making me avoid him at all costs.


    Meanwhile, I noticed another gaze fixed on me. Instinctively, I scanned the crowd around me...

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    Chapter 244


    Indeed, my gaze met with Renata''s eyes. Seeing my unexpected nce, she swiftly responded with a


    subtle nod and a smile, but it didn''t quite reach her eyes.


    I reciprocated with a polite smile and averted my eyes. But in that fleeting moment, I locked eyes with


    Jerome''s hawk-like, ominous stare. Undeterred, I maintained eye contact before subtly shifting my


    gaze away.


    Yet, for some reason, I felt a lingering sense of unease. Jerome was not an employee at Medsafe Liyah


    Inc., yet he seemed to know the ins and outs of thepany. As Jan had used him, he had


    be the puppet master behind the scenes at Medsafe Liyah Inc., which I found deeply unsettling.


    I didn''t even feel like scolding Jan for his ipetence anymore. I initially thought he had finally


    gotten a grip on managing Medsafe Liyah Inc. over the years, only to discover he had let such a


    significant threat slip under the radar. If this wasn''t ipetence, what was?


    His wife''s hard-earned empire was manipted by outsiders. An impressive feat indeed.


    Of course, who knew how many traitors lurked behind the scenes? Covet gained ahead without being


    aware of danger behind. How many beasts might be lurking behind the darkness?


    It was only now that I realized how blind I had been to Jan''s ws, his ostentatious behavior, and his


    superficiality. It wasn''t that I was oblivious to these traits, but rather, I had chosen to turn a blind eye. I


    used tolerance and avoidance as an excuse for his behavior.


    Yes, there was an element of escapism.


    Only at this moment did I realize how foolish, ridiculous, and tragic I''ve been! I was merely deluding


    myself, using his shamelessness as a reason to tolerate him!


    I was truly grateful that I finally woke up and understood that an angel could never dwell in a filthy soul!


    He was nothing more than a maggot in a gutter, fit only to associate with flies.


    From the moment I saw his obscene photos, my heart turned cold, and I felt utterly disgusted.


    It was then that I realized how challenging it would be to root out the Dawson family''s infestation. My


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    intuition told me that Marissa''s death was their doing, but I couldn''t find a shred of evidence. This


    realization sent chills down my spine. I felt a pang of regret, thinking Marissa might have died too soon.


    If she had held on a little longer, I would have been able to discover who this AzureEnchantress truly


    was from her.


    I had an ominous feeling once again.


    The speech by the Regional CEO of Wilson Group was met with enthusiastic apuse. After all, those


    attending the cocktail party were influential businessmen and entrepreneurs from Goldenvale Town.


    They could smell the business opportunities hidden in every word spoken by these key figures.


    It was clear that another wave ofmercial chance is about to hit Goldenvale Town!


    As the foreign guests left the stage, I saw Renata preparing to ascend the stage, only to be halted by a


    voice.


    "I suggest we invite the original founder of Medsafe Liyah Inc., Ms. Aaliyah Wilburn, to share her


    entrepreneurial journey in Goldenvale Town. Her experiences, the highs and lows, will undoubtedly be


    of great help to our local business development and uing economic construction!


    As administrators of Goldenvale Town, we should listen to their real thoughts and needs, which will


    help us improve our service quality, fix the gaps and provide more practical business opportunities!


    Let''s wee our young female entrepreneur!¡±


    The voice belonged to Mayor Arlen. With his words, who wouldn''t y along? The room instantly filled


    with enthusiastic apuse!

 Chapter 245

    Chapter 245


    This waspletely unexpected. I never thought that Mayor Arlen would throw in such a proposal,


    catching me off guard.


    Even Jan, who was standing next to me, looked at me in surprise.


    I mean, this was supposed to be his celebration party, and yet, I seemed to be stealing his thunder!


    To be honest, hearing that proposal all of a sudden left me feeling ttered. I hadn¡¯t been in the


    spotlight for quite some time, let alone making speeches. I was definitely nervous.


    But when all eyes were on me, I gathered up my courage, took a deep breath, and waved back at


    everyone.


    Jan quickly whispered in my ear, "Aaliyah, can you handle it?"


    His question clearly held doubt. His limelight would be taken away if I took the stage, after all.


    I smiled confidently at him, not hesitating as I strutted towards the podium.


    I muttered to myself, determined to show him that I was more than capable of handling the situation.


    Renata, for her part, probably didn¡¯t expect Mayor Arlen to change the course of events. She was


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing me confidently making my way onto the stage, she awkwardly stepped aside.


    Once I was on the stage, a wave of nostalgia hit me. This stage was rightfully mine, and it was my poor


    choices that almost made me lose it.


    I took a moment to look at the crowd, which fell quiet instantly. I gathered my emotions and started my


    speech, expressing my genuine feelings.


    I began by talking about the initial purpose of my business. Once I started, I couldn¡¯t stop. From the


    inception of thepany to its growth and finally the establishment of the corporation, I covered all the


    issues raised by the mayor. I discussed the challenges encountered during the process and the ns I


    had as a businesswoman, hoping for government support...


    I boldly shared everything, my eloquent speech earning enthusiastic apuse, because I was voicing


    the concerns of all the businessmen present.


    In the midst of the apuse, I saw their approving nods and praises.


    The hall was filled with deafening apuse - all for me.


    At that moment, I felt reborn, like I found myself again. As I stepped down from the stage, Catherine


    quickly came over, hugged me, and whispered, "You''re finally back!"


    I confidently smiled at her and said, "I never left!"


    Indeed, I never did. The days spent lying in bed were because I was too naive, believing there were no


    evils in this world. Since I¡¯ve already faced death once, what more do I have to fear?


    It¡¯s only when we are desperate that we find hope!


    Mayor Arlen certainly made things interesting. After my speech, he took the stage again for a closing


    remark, announcing cutting off the tedious procedures. He left more time for the businessmen to


    This was undoubtedly a huge relief. With such a good opportunity, who would want to listen to endless


    speeches? Everyone was eager to seize their opportunity.


    Many people came over to chat with me, but I didn¡¯t receive any praise from the Dawson family, not


    even from Jan.


    At that moment, he was busyworking with Mayor Arlen, basking in the glory of his family¡¯s business.


    Ronan came over, deliberately shaking my hand, whispering, "I see the confident you again, but more


    mature, steady, and assertive!"


    Finding my voice, I replied, "I have to be strong, for I am a mother now. I am not the same person as


    before. I will protect my children and my interests, and I will not back down." After saying this, I realized


    that my words might not have sounded too pleasing to the ears for him.

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    Chapter 246


    Feeling that I had spoken out of turn, I quickly nced at Ronan.


    Ronan was beaming,pletely unaffected. "I can''t wait to see this," he chuckled.


    At that moment, Mayor Arlen, apanied by Noah Atwood, approached. He introduced Bet to


    Jan, who had been loyally by their side, emphasizing Bet''s important status.


    Jan looked ttered and quickly shook hands with Bet. From his fawning expression, it was


    clear that Bet was the person Jan had been most eager to meet.


    Because Jan had known all along that this was the key figure my father had been privately


    discussing. He and Irving had even plotted an exciting n because of him.


    I couldn''t help but feel a sense of intentional matchmaking in the air. Could it be...


    I quietly excused myself from their conversation, my suspicions growing heavier.


    Gevena walked over with Mayor Arlen''s wife and gave me a discreet thumbs up. "Well done! You''ll be


    front-page news tomorrow!"


    I shrugged, light-heartedly retorting, "We''ll see about that. Don''t forget I''m still wearing thebel of a


    potential suspect."


    They allughed. Mrs. Arlen looked at me with trust in her eyes. "The innocent shall be proven so. I


    trust our police officers won''t wrongly use a good person. They''ll prove your innocence!"


    "Mrs. Arlen, more than my innocence, I hope we can find the child soon. He''s so young and innocent." I


    expressed my heartfelt concern.


    Recently, I had been having an uneasy feeling about Evan, so I genuinely hoped we would find him


    soon.


    Mrs. Arlen nced around before whispering, "Marissa''s suicide has been ruled a homicide. I believe


    the matter of the child will be resolved soon."


    "A homicide?"


    Gevena quickly shushed me. "The conclusion hasn''t been officially released yet. It''s not the right time."


    I was a bit shocked. Even though I had had my suspicions, hearing it confirmed still sent chills down my


    spine.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Just as I was about to say something, Jessica sauntered over, grinning from ear to ear and warmly


    greeted me as "sister-inw."


    Her lips were addressing me, but her gaze was on Gevena and Mrs. Arlen. I knew she wasn''t here to


    greet me, but to meet these two women.


    Gevena gave me a knowing look, and I immediately understood.


    I put on my act, warmly taking Jessica''s hand and introducing her to Mrs. Arlen and Gevena. "Ladies,


    this is my only sister-inw from my husband''s family. She''s very capable, currently managing Medsafe


    Liyah Inc.''s finances, and is a whizz at household affairs! She''ll be interacting with you more in the


    future, so please take care of her!"


    Jessica was obviously pleased with my introduction, and her attitude towards me warmed considerably.


    She clung to my arm even tighter!


    Gevena knew what I was doing and quickly added to Mrs. Arlen, "Aaliyah is famously virtuous. She


    gets along very well with her inws. Don''t let her career-oriented personality fool you, she manages


    both work and home very well!"


    Jessica merely smiled, not adding anything. She wasn''t about to help me out, the ungrateful wretch.


    Gevena continued, "Jessica, right? Aaliyah has actually mentioned you before. She said you''re very


    smart and an excellent assistant. It''s just a shame she fell ill before she had a chance to meet you!"


    Gevena was clearly trying to elevate my status. The implication was clear: without me, Jessica had no


    chance of meeting them.


    Jessica, always the opportunist, quickly clung to my arm. "Mrs. Arlen, Mrs. Atwood, you tter me.


    Aaliyah has always spoken highly of you two. She''s always encouraged me towork more with you,


    but due to work, I rarely get the chance. Today, it''s my honor to finally meet the two of you!"


    You see, the Dawsons all had a knack for ttery.


    "Hey... there''s no need for such formalities. There will be plenty of opportunities to meet in the future.


    Just like Aaliyah said, we should allwork more. You never know what opportunities mighte up!"


    Gevena''s words were like bait, hooking Jessica, the catfish in the mud.


    Sure enough, Jessica looked bbergasted. "I definitely will!"


    Then she turned to me, " Aaliyah, take me with you to the next gathering!"


    Gevena added, "Yes, Aaliyah, bring her along more often!"


    I quickly interjected, "Just remember not to leave me behind!"


    I then smoothly handed Jessica over to Gevena.

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    Chapter 247


    Then, I retreated into a corner with Mrs. Arlen, chatting for a while. She asked me a lot of questions


    about Evan - more questions than the police had asked.


    What surprised me more is that she didn''t hold back and asked about the scandal between Jan and


    Marissa!


    Clearly, she already knew about my ordeal.


    Surprised as I was, I had to tell her the truth. She also asked about my condition when I was ill, and I


    didn¡¯t hide anything.


    Her face turned grim, "I didn''t expect Jan to be so audacious. Why would you tolerate such


    arrogance? Why didn''t you call the police!"


    I chuckled lightly, saying seriously, "It¡¯s not that I could tolerate it, the matter isplicated and


    involves a lot. There are many mysteries that I can''t exin."


    Mrs. Arlen looked at me with confusion, her eyes full of questions. So, I briefly exined the strange


    things that couldn''t be exined.


    Mrs. Arlen was shocked and looked at me incredulously, "Are you saying that even public officials are


    involved?"


    I nodded solemnly, "Probably!"


    She swore fiercely, "Those bastards! They dare to ignore thew!"


    "That''s why I''m worried, the child may be in danger!" I hinted anxiously, "The one who took the child


    should be someone familiar!"


    "So, the child''s mother should know the child''s whereabouts?" Mrs. Arlen was clever, "Otherwise, she


    wouldn''t have confronted you so aggressively!"


    "But now, Marissa is dead without any evidence!" I spoke bluntly, "All this indicates that there must be a


    mastermind behind the scenes!"


    "It seems like there''s no smoke without fire!" Mrs. Arlen muttered, which made me jump. It seemed that


    Mrs. Arlen knew something, but I didn''t think it appropriate to inquire further.


    While we were talking, I noticed Jerome, with his hands in his pockets, weaving his way through the


    crowd and heading outside.


    Just then, someone came over to greet Mrs. Arlen. We exchanged pleasantries, and when I looked up


    again, I saw ra, like a sprightly goldfish, also slipping out of the hall. From ra''s cautious


    expression, it seemed she was trying to keep a low profile.


    An idea shed in my mind. Was it Jerome who had called ra away?


    I quickly signaled to Hannah, and quietly instructed her to check if it was Jerome who had called ra.


    Hannah epted the task and leisurely left the hall.


    Just then, Hazel strutted over. I knew exactly what she was up to.


    Honestly, her nouveau riche attitude made me nauseous, but it was toote to avoid her. I forced a


    smile and greeted her with a sharine, "Hazel!"


    Oddly enough, she didn¡¯t act as strange as usual, but stood beside me with a full-faced smile, giving


    the impression of a harmonious mother-daughter-inw rtionship.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I was puzzled. Who had coached Hazel? She had even learned how to y both sides.


    Gevena, a smart person, knew the tension between Hazel and me. She quickly stepped in to smooth


    things over, ¡°Mrs. Dawson, you¡¯re so lucky to have such an outstanding daughter-inw like Aaliyah.


    Look how she¡¯s taken the whole family to new heights!¡±


    ¡°Yes, our Aaliyah is quite outstanding! She¡¯s the lucky one, having such distinguished friends. It¡¯s all


    thanks to your support that we have what we have today!¡±


    After saying that, shevished praise on Mrs. Arlen, which gave me goosebumps.


    Seeing that they were getting along, I quietly exited their circle, keeping an eye on the door, but


    Hannah had yet to return.


    Curiosity was getting the better of me, and I made my way towards the door, greeting the guests along


    the way.

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    Chapter 248


    The corridor was fairly bustling with guests, chatting away in small groups.


    This was a circr balcony on the top floor. I scanned the area, finding several multifunctional halls.


    Through the corridor, there were restrooms, lounge areas, changing rooms, an electrical room, and a


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    storage closet.


    I looked down the corridor, catching sight of a few guests sneaking off to the restroom. But there was


    no sign of Jerome or ra, and certainly no sign of Hannah, who had followed them earlier.


    Mildly puzzled, I headed towards the restrooms.


    It had been a while since I had worn heels. Walking was genuinely tiring, especially on the soft carpet.


    It was like walking through sand.


    The further I moved down the corridor, the fewer people there were. The noise from the main hall faded


    to a faint murmur. It was eerily quiet.


    The restroom area was open n, with arge mirror dividing it into two. On the left was the men''s


    room, and on the right was thedies''.


    I stopped by the sink and looked at myself in the mirror. My makeup was untouched, effectively hiding


    any signs of fatigue. It was an understatement to say I was glowing.


    I was particrly pleased with the dress I had chosen for the night. It was understated yet luxurious,


    the perfectplement to my radiantplexion.


    But my focus wasn''t on my appearance. I rinsed my hands under the tap, straining to hear any sounds


    from the restrooms.


    A man entered the restroom area. He saw me and greeted enthusiastically, "Mrs. Dawson!"


    I nodded in response and he entered the men''s room. I was pretty sure that all of the guests knew who


    I was, so his greeting wasn''t surprising.


    I entered the emptydies'' room. After waiting a few minutes to make sure the man had left, I stepped


    back out into the corridor.


    I was puzzled and wondered if they had left the area.


    I stepped out of the restroom and looked down the corridor again. It took a sharp turn, leading to the


    lounges. I wasn''t ready to give up just yet, so I moved further down the corridor. I thought I heard


    voices. I looked back; the restroom was out of sight.


    I hesitated, contemting whether to continue. I could hear faint voices, but they disappeared and


    reappeared unpredictably.


    I leaned against the wall to ease my fatigue and anxiety. I held my breath and listened, but all I could


    hear was my own heartbeat.


    Iughed at myself. There were no voices, just echoes from the main hall.


    Just as I was about to turn around and head back, I heard a low growl. It startled me. The voice was


    deep and muffled, but I couldn''t make out what was being said.


    Chills ran down my spine and goosebumps sprouted on my skin. There were definitely people in there.


    But I had no idea which room they were in.


    I froze, my heart pounding in my chest.


    I managed to calm myself down. I thought, since I''m already here, I might as well check out who''s in


    there. Since someone had growled, it was clear that the situation inside wasn''t cheerful.


    Driven by curiosity, I took a few more steps forward. Sure enough, I could hear voices. "You already


    missed one opportunity! Don''t tell me... give you another chance."


    "I want to see..."


    Two men were speaking. Their words were incoherent and I couldn''t understand what they were


    saying.


    I was confused. Who were they?


    It was definitely not ra.


    "Jerome, don''t you..."


    Jerome? It was definitely Jerome.


    I felt a surge of adrenaline and tiptoed a few steps further in. The voices wereing from one of the


    rooms. I mustered up the courage to get closer.


    "...Use this opportunity, gain momentum, you stupid... someone, dead..." This voice was strange. I


    guessed it was a foreigner speaking in broken English.


    I held my breath and leaned closer. The door wasn''t fully closed. There was a small crack. I dared to


    take a peek inside to see who the other man was.


    Just as I reached out to push the door slightly open, a thunderous sound startled me. I almost let out a


    scream. My foot hit a trash can by the door, making a loud ''thud''.


    "Who''s there?" a voice from inside asked.


    Frightened, I quickly stepped back, but footsteps from inside indicated someone wasing to check


    the door.

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    Chapter 249


    Just then, the door behind me swung open, and a big, strong hand yanked me inside...


    Before I could even scream, my mouth was covered, and my body, now beyond my control, was


    dragged into the room. The door mmed shut and locked, all in the blink of an eye. I had no time to


    react, no time to understand what was happening.


    I heard the door to the adjacent room being pulled open, and my heart pounded in my chest.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Who''s there?... Who''s out there?"


    The voice belonged to Jerome. Who was he shouting at? Had he noticed us?


    I was so terrified that I barely dared to breathe. My heart ached from the rapid pounding, and my body


    felt like jelly.


    Therge hand held me up, pulling me into a broad,forting embrace. The hand that had covered


    my mouth moved to cradle my head, pressing it against a masculine chest. My face was buried into his


    shirt, and the scent of him filled my nostrils, making my head spin.


    But I ignored all these sensations, focusing on the sounds outside.


    My head was held tight, immobilized, and I didn''t dare to move for fear of being discovered.


    Just when I thought things couldn''t get any worse, I heard the doorknob behind me being twisted.


    "Who''s in there? Open up!"


    Jerome''s voice was sharp and intimidating. I shivered instinctively, closing my eyes and burying my


    face deeper into the stranger''s chest.


    I couldn''t even begin to imagine what would happen if the door was opened.


    Suddenly, thunder cracked the sky. The deafening sound nearly made me shriek. Two knocks outside


    the room followed, and the doorknob rattled again.


    I felt like the world was about to end, my hands clutching the man''s shirt in desperation.


    After a moment of silence, the footsteps moved away from the door and I crumbled, leaning against the


    door to catch my breath. I could feel him rx as well.


    Before I had a chance to see who he was, voices echoed from outside again. "Who''s there?"


    "I thought I heard something," Jerome''s uncertain voice said.


    Suddenly, I was spun around and pressed against the door. I was about to protest when the man


    whispered, "Listen!"


    His breath tickled my ear and I held still, pressing myself against the door and holding my breath.


    "I don''t see anyone," Jerome finally said.


    A rough voice replied, "You''d better handle this yourself. We''re running out of time. Do whatever you


    think is best."


    Then I heard footsteps moving towards the interior safety exit and then fading away.


    It seemed the man had left.


    Just as I was starting to rx, the doorknob rattled again and I tensed up.


    With a loud bang, the door was kicked. The man behind me immediately pulled me against him.


    I flinched, pressing myself against him as his arm wrapped around my waist.


    I was certain it was Jerome venting his frustration by kicking the door. That lunatic! I cursed in my mind.


    The next second, I finally heard the fading footsteps outside.


    After straining my ears for what seemed like an eternity, I was sure that they were gone.


    I copsed against the door,pletely drained.


    Only then did I realize the danger I was still in. I spun around, pushing the man behind me away, and


    yelled, "You..."

 Chapter 250

    Chapter 250


    My gaze faltered, and I was left speechless as I realized that the man holding me was none other than


    Ronan. This totally threw me off!


    "You... what are you doing here? You..." I stammered, full of confusion as I quietly asked him. Could it


    be that he was here to eavesdrop too?


    Moreover, it seemed like he had been here longer than I had. Howe I had not noticed when he


    came out?


    Upon seeing my intense stare, Ronan simply shrugged, wrapping his arms around himself, not backing


    down. "What do you think?" he asked, his voice tinged with annoyance. "You''re too reckless. Don''t ever


    do such risky things again!"


    "How was I supposed to know it was going to rain and thunder so heavily?" I argued, feeling a bit


    defiant. If he could do it, why couldn''t I?


    "What''s rain got to do with anything? Do you even know what kind of person you''re dealing with?


    Jerome is a lot more ruthless than you think. Curiosity killed the cat, you know?" His voice grew stern,


    his face hardened.


    I snorted dismissively at his words, rolling my eyes at him. Remembering the way he held me close


    earlier, my cheeks inexplicably flushed. I was speechless. What the hell was this?


    I was still in marriage with three children, for heaven''s sake. Wasn''t this practicallymitting a sin?


    I knew the scent I had smelled earlier was familiar! We had spent so much time close to each other


    back in the day, that scent was unmistakable.


    "Hmph... Speaking of which, what are you doing here? Don''t tell me you stumbled upon this by


    ident?" I countered, before asking curiously, "Did you hear what they were saying?"


    He looked at me and smirked. He leaned in closer, his hands resting on the door, trapping me against


    his body. His eyes were fixed on my face, a smirk ying on his lips. "You''re trembling, yet you still


    dared to get close to a man. You''ve got quite some nerve, right?"


    He continued to stare at me, his questioning gaze almost intimidating. "What if I hadn''t been the one


    here today? What do you think would have happened?"


    I was so irritated by his words that I rolled my eyes again. When had he be so shameless? I was


    still getting used to the unfamiliar face before me, yet he had the audacity to say such things.


    I stared back at him, my mind racing, trying to figure out how to counter this familiar stranger.


    Without warning, he leaned in and quickly pecked my nose.


    Boom... My brain went nk.


    I stood there, leaning against the door, staring nkly at him. He gazed back at me, our eyes locked. I


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    felt like I was about to lose my breath.


    This had never happened before. If he had dared to do this back in the day, I... I would have followed


    him to the ends of the earth, waiting for him, no matter how long it took, without any regrets. But now,


    his actions hade twelve years toote. What was he trying to achieve now? This was rude!


    My mind was a whirl of protest, excitement, and regret...


    His eyes lit up with a passionate glow as he slowly leaned closer. His familiar scent enveloped me,


    filling my nostrils.


    Just when his lips were about to meet mine...

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    Chapter 251


    In the instant he neared closer and closer, I suddenly pushed him away, hastily turned around, flung


    open the door and escaped as swiftly as my legs could carry me.


    I could hear my heart pounding like a drum!


    My legs felt weak and shaky. This abrupt escape, for some reason, left me with a pang of regret. Why


    did I push him away? Was it because the unfamiliarity of his face, or his sudden disy of affection that


    was too abrupt, or a grudge that I was unable to let go, or perhaps the resentment towards his abrupt


    departure years ago...


    I didn''t know, but at that moment, I felt inexplicably helpless. I even wanted to run back and throw


    myself into his arms to vent my pent-up emotions.


    If he hadn''t left without saying goodbye, without uttering a single word, would I have ended up in my


    current state?


    Even if he had given me a glimmer of hope back then, I wouldn''t have shifted my affections! You must


    know, back then, my heart was filled with him. His sudden dropout and subsequent disappearance left


    me in despair.


    I was full of him, filled to the brim. But suddenly, he was gone, nowhere to be found. Only I knew how


    much pain I was in. If not for my childish intention to revenge him, why would I went for Jan


    Dawson?


    Back then I foolishly thought, ¡°you didn''t want me getting close to Jan, right? You said he wasn''t my


    type, right? You said this man wasn''t reliable, right? I was determined to get close to handsome Jan,


    as a deration of war.¡±


    I thought that by doing so, he would definitelye back. But he disappeared for twelve years,


    vanished into thin air.


    I gave a bitterugh, choked back a sob, and now when I think back, can I me him?


    Even though he left abruptly back then, he never rejected me, never said he didn''t love me. I only have


    myself to me, for being whimsical, capricious, seekingfort in Jan, leading myself into an


    irreversible situation.


    That regret, from the moment I saw him again, tormented me, especially his unfamiliar face, and the


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    bracelet on his wrist that I gave him, that he would never take off.


    I have no right to me him anymore, especially considering his extraordinary secret identity.


    Is this really my fate? They say, the gentleman does not quarrel with fate, but I¡¯m unwilling!


    How blind was I to fall for Jan, a wolf in sheep''s clothing. And how different am I from his other


    women?


    The only difference is that I''m his legal wife, but the price I paid for this is just too high.


    If not for my three intelligent and adorable children as well as Milo, this price would be even more


    exorbitant. I might as well be no different from Marissa.


    I felt confused and dazed, as if my soul had been sucked out, to the point where I nearly bumped into


    Hannah, who hade out to look for me. I didn''t even notice her until she grabbed me and cried out,


    "Mydy, what''s wrong?"


    I stared at her nkly, my gaze scattered. She shook my arm a little, and I tried hard to concentrate, to


    pull myself out of myplex thoughts. I fixed my gaze upon Hannah''s anxious face.


    She was scrutinizing me anxiously, "Mydy, what''s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"


    Only then did I see her clearly, and I hurriedly shook my head, saying quietly, "No... I... I''m okay, where


    were you just now?"


    She whispered a few words into my ear, and my eyes widened, "Really?"


    Hannah nodded firmly, "Yes, you must be careful!"


    "Okay!" I clenched my fist, gritted my teeth and strode back towards the hall, "Let''s go in!"


    I returned to the hall, havingposed myself, and carefully scanned the entire room. But I couldn''t


    find Jerome.


    I couldn''t help but wonder, had he not returned?


    For some reason, I had a strong premonition that this rainy night wouldn''t be a peaceful one. My heart


    gave a painful jolt.

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    Chapter 252


    The voice I had heard earlier was still echoing in my ears, and I was convinced it belonged to a


    foreigner. Could they possibly be at the same event?


    Iposed myself and headed towards Gevena.


    Approaching her, she looked at me, "Where did you go? You were gone for quite a while."


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    I shrugged, "Just stepped out for a bit."


    I didn''t tell her the truth. After all, anything involving Jerome was of no concern to Gevena.


    "Where''s Jessica?" I asked.


    Gevena smirked, "She''s busy."


    I noticed Ronan Stewart hadn''t returned to the hall.


    "Your mother-inw is the star of the show tonight!" Gevena said, eyeing Hazel. Following her gaze, I


    saw Hazel in a lively conversation with an older businessman, her corpulence shaking withughter.


    Jan was huddled with Renata in a corner, whispering about something. Renata didn''t seem pleased.


    Remembering something Catherine had said, I took out my phone and searched for some scandal


    about Renata.


    Wow... impressive!


    A bunch of news articles popped up. I clicked on one to get the gist of it, and couldn''t help but chuckle


    at the soap opera-like drama unfolding.


    What was more surprising was that someone had dug up her extravagant spending habits. Most of it


    was spent on her appearance, clearly, she was heavily invested in climbing the socialdder.


    The man at the center of the scandal was a rather unremarkable older man. It seemed this Miss


    Renata wasn''t picky.


    After reading up on the man, it turned out he was quite wealthy. However, following the scandal, he had


    lost everything to his wife and was kicked out of the business.


    Reading all this was incredibly satisfying. This woman was really something, ruthless and urate!


    I put away my phone, and Gevena gave me a knowing smile, subtly indicating Renata, "She''s


    something, isn''t she?"


    I chuckled at Gevena, "Looks like her days are gone."


    Catherine joined us, wrapping an arm around each of us, "What''s so funny?"


    "Renata¡¯s scandal," I said casually.


    Catherine turned to look at Renata, "Well, she sure dug her own grave."


    "No wonder she''s so aggressive. The guy in the scandal is definitely not as loaded as Jan!" I


    smirked, "If she wants to catch this opportunity, she''ll have to pull out all the stops."


    "Considering his standard, she won''t have to try too hard. As long as she''s a woman!" Catherine,


    always the one with the sharp tongue.


    Gevena nudged her, "Watch your mouth!"


    I knew what she meant. She was worried about my feelings. So I reassured her, "Don''t worry about me,


    I''m enjoying the show!"


    "Exactly, our girl is strong. This is nothing! You have to kiss a few frogs before you find your prince,"


    Catherine dismissed Jan with a flick of her gaze.


    Just then, Jan seemed to sense our stares and looked over. His eyes darkened, and he said


    something to Renata before parting ways.


    I couldn''t help butugh, "Did you see that? He''s got no guts, not trying to flirt right in front of me!"


    We allughed heartily, and surprisingly, I didn''t feel bitter at all.


    I had to admit, Renata had some nerve. She sashayed over to us, strutting like a runway model. I


    couldn''t tell if she was trying to show off to the men in the room or provoke me.


    Hannah snorted softly and asked me in a low voice, "Miss, who''s performance are you interested in?


    Your mother-inw''s or this one''s?"

 Chapter 253

    Chapter 253


    I shot her a nce, nonchntly saying, "Obviously her. What''s so interesting about the older ones?


    Besides, we''ll have our chance to deal with herter, there''s no rush. Don''t forget, this is our night!"


    Hannahughed, revealing two small, sharp teeth. They were quite charming, a detail I had previously


    overlooked.


    Renata was already strutting up to us, her face adorned with a flight attendant''s smile. She scanned us


    all before finally resting her gaze on me...


    I saw the way Renata''s gaze finally settled on me and knew that the show was about to begin.


    Sure enough, Renata shed me a charming smile, elegantly saying, "Mrs. Dawson, what a pleasure it


    is to meet you! I didn''t realize your wit was so sharp, you put even a professional host like me to


    shame!"


    "You''re too kind, Ms. Renata! You''re just being modest! There''s noparison between us!" I replied


    with a warm smile and a pointedment, "Ms. Renata, your professional skills are unmatched! I


    could never hope topete!"


    "You''re too modest, Mrs. Dawson!" she returned thepliment.


    "Enough with the mutual ttery!" Catherine chimed in, "We each have our specialties. Allie is all about


    her business, unlike Ms. Renata who excels in every field and is always in the limelight. Leave some


    room for the rest of us, don''t hog all the headlines!"


    Catherine, noticing Renata''s growing rapport with me, naturally couldn''t stand idly by. Her words were


    loaded with innuendo.


    Renata shifted her gaze to Catherine, still smiling her calm smile, and shot back, "Ms. Damon, as


    expected of a media personality, always chasing rumors!"


    It seemed they knew each other well, and their barbs were pinpoint urate.


    "Call me a gossip, why don''t you! I admit, I love a good piece of gossip. Allie always scolds me for it,


    says I live off gossip! But what can I do? It''s my profession, and I''m dedicated...sigh...I just can''t seem


    to make it to the top!" Catherine''s words had a hint of sour grapes, "I just can''tpare to you


    celebrities!"


    "That''s not necessarily true. Thanks to gossip experts like you, everyone gets a chance. Look, even


    Mrs. Dawson can make headlines!" Renata skillfully changed the topic, her smile concealing a razor-


    sharp wit, tantly pointing out my weakness.


    Indeed, the online bashing hadn''t ceased, and the methods had been refreshed, constantly increasing!


    If I couldn''t find Evan, I wouldn''t be able to catch a break.


    I looked at Renata, not taking the bait. I thought to myself, I won''tpete with you for a moment of


    satisfaction, you can continue to ride the wave! Just remember, provoking me alwayses with a


    cost.


    Renata probably thought that my silence was an admission of defeat, so she gestured to someone.


    I saw ra, carrying a tray, immediately start to walk towards us. I squinted at ra''s familiar and


    innocent face.


    She seemed thinner than a few days ago, probably due to her illness. Even though the current


    medication for her condition was highly effective, it was probably not something she could afford.


    ra seemed to notice my attention. She hesitated for a moment, avoiding my gaze, standing a little


    distance away from me.


    Renata, with a perfectly charming smile, announced to us, "I am honored to meet everyone at Medsafe


    Liyah Inc.''s victory party. The opportunity is rare, so why don''t we share a drink?"


    I saw Hannah standing next to ra, who held the tray straight, her eyes still not daring to meet mine,


    N?velDrama.Org content.


    looking down.


    After Renata finished speaking, she turned around, beckoning with her finger. ra immediately


    stepped forward. Renata handed out a drink to each of us, introducing herself as she did so, "I''m


    Renata, nice to meet you!"


    I took the ss she handed me, casually swaying it, feigning nonchnce.


    Renata finally picked up thest ss on the tray, raising it to us, "Ladies, it''s my pleasure to meet you


    here. Let''s toast to evesting beauty!"


    I saw ra quietly retreat with the tray.


    Hannah raised her eyebrows at me, and I responded with a smirk.


    Gevenaughed, "Renata, you''re really good at ingratiating yourself! Making friends with a single drink,


    and it''s even a drink from the Dawson family. You''re really crafty!"


    "Hey, I''ve already said, it''s just a friendly gesture!" she replied with a blush, "Are you refusing the


    toast?"


    "How could we?" Gevena replied with a lightugh, looking at me, "But Aaliyah isn''t feeling well, so


    maybe we should skip the drinks. A cup of tea will do just fine!"


    I remained silent, looking at Renata as if asking for her opinion.

 Chapter 254

    Chapter 254


    "Really?" Renata looked slightly taken aback, studying me. "Not a sip? It''s red wine, a little can be good


    for your health."


    "Just this once, then! Can''t go against Ms. Renata''s wishes, can we?" I replied casually, "And best of


    luck to you, Ms. Renata!"


    Renata''s face lit up in delight. She raised her ss and we all mirrored her gesture, clinking our


    sses together before taking a sip.


    I watched them all drink before reluctantly raising my ss, I took a small sip.


    It had been a while since I had tasted this stuff, sour and unpleasant, hard to swallow.


    My reaction, however, was calcted.


    Sure enough, Renata noticed my tiny sip and instantly protested, pointing it out, "You can''t be serious,


    Mrs. Dawson! We all drank, it''s not right!"


    Catherine seemed a little irritated, reaching for my wine, "Don¡¯t push yourself."


    I evaded her, "No need. I¡¯m just not used to this stuff anymore." With that, I raised my ss and


    downed it in one gulp, then looked at Renata.


    "Mrs. Dawson, you''re a sport!" Renata apuded immediately.


    "If I weren''t, you wouldn''t let me be!" I added with augh. I was being rather blunt.


    Herughter grew brighter, "Men are talking about business, while we women have to enjoy ourselves!"


    Catherine shot back, "You sure arefortable with this, always apanying men in business, huh?


    Oh... by the way, where did you get that dress? It''s quite pretty."


    Renata flinched slightly, her gaze fixed on Catherine''s face. She probably didn''t expect Catherine to be


    so forthright.


    Everyone understood the unspoken joke, suppressing theirughter. Everyone knew the dress


    Catherine was referring to, was the one that had be popr after Renata''s scandal.


    Though Renata didn''t respond, her face paled slightly, and her gaze towards Catherine held a hint of


    hostility.


    Just then, Jan walked over with Jesper and Caleb, looking triumphant as he moved to my side,


    wrapping his arm around my waist, showing off our affection. "What''s this? Honey, you''re drinking?


    Don''t drink too much!"


    "For Ms. Renata''s hospitality, just this once!" I replied softly, looking at him. "Just a little to lighten the


    mood!"


    Janughed, reaching up to pinch my cheek affectionately, "Cheeky! One is enough! Don''t drink


    anymore!"


    His tone and words were utterly indulgent, even listening to it could melt you.


    I had to swallow my disgust.


    A sh of light passed by, probably a media outlet capturing the moment.


    I had forgotten, there were many media outlets here. I had to make good use of this.


    I looked at Jan, feigning shyness, "Stop it, everyone''s been drinking, not just me! If you keep this up,


    what will Ms. Renata think? It was her suggestion!"


    I intentionally put the ball in Renata''s court.


    Jan looked at me with indulgent affection, "Honey, everyone else is fine, but you''ve been weak.


    Don''t push yourself! You need to take care of yourself, no arguing!"


    Catherine joined in the fun, "Instead of ming her, why not keep an eye on Ms. Renata? Always


    stirring the pot! Her generosity might lead people to believe she''s the hostess!"


    Renata offered a dismissiveugh, "Ms. Damon, don''t make a fuss over nothing!"


    Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Am I?" Catherine looked at Renata, herugh sincere, "I haven''t mentioned your intentional spiking


    yet!"


    Renata looked innocent, "Mr. Dawson, I had no idea your wife couldn''t handle her drink!"


    "Only when Mr. Dawson says so, you believe, huh?" Catherine didn''t let her off, exposing her without


    hesitation.

 Chapter 255

    Chapter 255


    Renata carried an air of elegance about her, "Oh, Ms. Damon, you''re really ming me unfairly! It''s just


    one ss of wine. Do we really need to make a mountain out of a molehill? Are we protecting our


    friends a bit too zealously? Even if Mr. Dawson was present, I would still sincerely hope to make friends


    with Mrs. Dawson. You''re not going to block that too, are you?"


    After her speech, she lifted her eyes to Jan, her lips curling into a smile, her voice tinged with


    flirtation, "Mr. Dawson, I really wanted to toast sincerely!"


    "Hey! ...Speak properly, will you? Is it really about one ss of wine? You''re forcing your will upon


    others, definitely not with good intentions!" Catherine retorted without any filter,ughing as if she found


    the situation entertaining, "Flirting with Mr. Dawson is useless here, this is a business cocktail party, not


    a bar!"


    I was inevitably amused by Catherine''s words, and when everyone saw meugh, they joined in too.


    Renata''s face finally flushed a tad, "Catherine, how can you speak like that? Can''t you ever stop?


    Since Mrs. Dawson already drank the wine, what''s there to fuss about?"


    "Fine, let''s not fuss about it then!" Catherine squinted her eyes, a knowing smile on her face.


    "Right! Just over one ss of wine, you attribute so much to it? You''re really making things difficult!"


    Renata licked her lips, seemingly eager to escape the situation, "Alright, ...I was wrong, I shouldn''t


    have toasted Mrs. Dawson! Ms. Damon, is this alright?"


    The two women had been subtly challenging each other, but it seemed like the situation was finally


    settling down.


    I just stood by, watching with a smile. I was calcting time in my mind, waiting for a miracle to


    happen!


    Jan knew Catherine well enough to fear that their bickering might spark a problem. He hurried to


    mediate, "You women are too dramatic, is it wrong for me to protect my wife? I''m scared of you lot, all


    sharp-tongued? Anyway, no more alcohol for my Allie!"


    Jan''s words were indeed reasonable and perfectly reflected a sense of prioritizing the bigger picture.


    After finishing, he softly said to me, "I''ve got to get back to work. If you''re tired, rest a bit and grab a


    bite!"


    "Alright! Go ahead!" I replied with apliant smile, "Don''t worry about me!"


    Unexpectedly, just as our conversation moved on, Renata tried to get thest word. Seeing Jan


    about to leave, she quickly stepped forward, "Mr. Dawson, no matter how busy you are today, you need


    to have a drink with me. Consider it as drinking on behalf of your wife!"


    Just as Catherine was about to step in, I gave a slight cough. Catherine immediately understood and


    held back.


    "Ms. Renata, since you''re insisting, I''ll have a drink with you." Jan responded, gesturing for a waiter


    to bring over drinks. He handed one to Renata, and picked up one for himself.


    As Renata took the drink, she nced at me, a mischievous smile in her eyes.


    I silently cursed at her, she was pushing her luck!


    Holding her ss, she turned to me, "Mrs. Dawson, I came today for Mr. Dawson, but don''t get me


    wrong! I usually don''t take up such hosting duties, but when Mr. Dawson called and asked me to spice


    up the event, I had toe! So, I really don''t have any other intentions!"


    "I understand! I''m not misunderstanding! You''re overthinking!" I responded graciously, my smile warm


    and generous.


    Pleased with my reply, she raised an eyebrow at me, "So, it''s not too much if I ask Mr. Dawson for a


    drink, right?"


    I continued to smile, "Not at all, it''s appropriate!"


    Hearing my response, Renata grinned smugly, turning to Catherine, "See, Ms. Damon, Mrs. Dawson is


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    very generous, unlike you, always thinking the worst of others!"


    With that, she looked back at Catherine, now turning her attention to Jan, her eyes twinkling with


    flirtation, "Mr. Dawson, I wish you every sess and may all your wishese true!"


    Jan''s lips twitched, he lifted his ss and downed the drink, clearly eager to excuse himself from the


    situation. However, Renata seemed oblivious to his intentions. Seeing him finish his drink, she burst out


    Jan''s face turned a bit stern, he looked at Renata, his voice cold, "You sure have a lot to say!"

 Chapter 256

    Chapter 256


    Clearly, Jan had seen enough of Renata¡¯s foolishness and decided he was no longer going to humor


    her.


    I must admit, I was taken aback by his reaction. Renata, too, seemed unprepared for Jan¡¯s abrupt


    dismissal. Her face alternated pale, indicating her indecision.


    Jan turned to Jesper, his voice holding a meaningful tone, ¡°Jesper, take Ms. Renata home, she


    seems to have had a bit too much to drink.¡±


    Jesper responded promptly, ¡°Sure.¡±


    He got up and walked over to Renata, extending his hand, ¡°Ms. Renata, let me take you home.¡±


    Renata, however, dodged Jesper and kept her gaze fixed on Jan, her eyes brimming with unshed


    tears. She maintained herposure as she said, ¡°Mr. Dawson, I beg your pardon¡­ I didn¡¯t drink at


    all, how could I possibly be drunk¡­¡±


    ¡°Ms. Renata, a wise person knows when to advance and when to retreat,¡± Jan spoke, intending to


    leave, but Renata grabbed his arm.


    ¡°I only wanted her to have a drink. You''re so protective of her! What about me? I came here for you


    today, and I am the hostess today. I¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Jan cut her off, shaking her hand off his arm and red at her, ¡°Take care of yourself!¡±


    Renata stubbornly clung to Jan¡¯s arm, ¡°Don¡¯t leave!¡±


    Jan nced around, coldly shook off Renata¡¯s grip, and turned to Jesper, ¡°What are you waiting for?


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Take her home!¡±


    Jesper, realizing the situation was escting, grabbed Renata by her slim arm, causing her to yelp,


    ¡°You''re hurting me! What are you doing?¡±


    Everyone¡¯s attention was drawn to Jesper¡¯s hand gripping Renata¡¯s arm.


    Behind Jesper''s sses, his eyes were icy, menacing. It was the first time I had seen such a terrifying


    side of him.


    When everyone turned to look, his face instantly resumed its usual polite demeanor, even appearing


    somewhat helpless towards Renata, but his grip on her arm didn¡¯t loosen.


    I was utterly confused!


    Normally, Renata was a seasoned socialite, adept at handling unexpected situations with grace and


    Yet today, her behavior was far frommendable. It reeked of pettiness, which waspletely out of


    character for her.


    I silently watched, feeling that something was amiss. Even if she had drunk the drink intended for me,


    she seemed sober. But my assumption was soon proven wrong.


    Renata, probably ufortable from the grip on her arm, struggled to look at Jesper, ¡°Do you know


    who I am? How can you treat me¡­¡± Her voicecked any hint of authority. Instead, it wasced with a


    seductive tone, her eyes were zed over, and she even tugged at her cor.


    This action caused an immediate hush in the crowd, all eyes fixed on Renata.


    I silently cursed, realizing she must be unconscious now.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go, I don¡¯t want to leave¡­ let me hold you, you feel so good¡­¡±


    Renata was murmuring, continuing to tug at her cor, exposing her fair skin. She was relentless.


    ¡°¡­so hot!¡± She spun around, suddenly wrapping herself around Jesper, her body clinging to his like a


    snake. Her expression and posture were so outrageous that it shattered my perception of her.


    The entire hall was silent, everyone staring in shock.


    Meanwhile, the journalists present were ecstatic. They wouldn¡¯t miss such an exciting scene.


    The sound of cameras clicking filled the air.


    Not just the journalists, but also the guests who were fond of their smartphones, began to record every


    detail of the unfolding drama!


    Renata, however, hadpletely lost her self-control. Despite Jesper¡¯s anger and his attempts to


    shake her off, she clung to him like a ma and mumbled, ¡°Jerome¡­ hold me¡­¡±


    I was stunned. What did she just call him?


    Jerome?

 Chapter 257

    Chapter 257


    But her entire demeanor today was as if she was clinging onto Jan. I didn''t see any interaction


    between her and Jerome.


    My eyes involuntarily scanned the room, but I couldn''t find Jerome anywhere. In fact, ever since I


    returned to the grand hall, I hadn''t seen him at all.


    I looked at Jan, his handsome face now as cold as ice.


    "Security, get her out of here!" Jan barked out with an authority that demanded respect.


    At hismand, several security personnel approached and rather forcefully removed the intoxicated


    Renata from where she was hanging onto Jesper.


    It''s worth noting that the security present wasn''t just from Medsafe Liyah Inc., but also included


    inclothes officers dispatched from the local police station, blending in among the guests.


    I saw Mayor Arlen, his face an ashen grey, whispering instructions to one of his burly aides, who then


    walked over to one of the security chiefs. "Get her to the hospital, pronto! Make sure she''s taken care


    of!"


    The implications were clear; Renata was in trouble.


    No surprise there, considering how she had made a spectacle of herself at such an important event.


    Her antics had brought shame not just on herself, but on everyone present. It was inevitable that she


    would face repercussions.


    Jan nced in the direction of Mayor Arlen, visibly thrown off bnce. He quickly whispered


    something to me before rushing off towards the Mayor.


    By now, Hannah had returned to my side. With a steady voice, I quietly asked her, "Is everything under


    control?"


    "Don''t worry," she replied, her voice filled with confidence.


    I watched as the security chief directed a muscr guard to lift Renata in his arms and carry her out. I


    was quietly impressed with his decision to have her carried out, rather than dragged out.


    Once Renata was removed, a spokesperson for the city¡¯s economic department took to the stage to


    briefly exin the unfortunate turn of events, stating that thedy in question had consumed too much


    alcohol and her behavior was inappropriate. He urged everyone to forget the unpleasant incident.


    As he finished speaking, Gevena walked over and murmured, "Looks like another storm is brewing."


    "It''s inevitable," I replied. "Did you catch who she was calling out to?"


    Gevena furrowed her brow, thought for a moment, then turned to me. "I think it was... Jerry?"


    I looked at her, both of us puzzled. "Could it be Jerome?"


    "It''s not that simple," Gevena whispered back. "But Jerome doesn''t seem to be here, does he?"


    "He left earlier," I replied confidently, but did not mention the scene I had eavesdropped on. After all,


    walls have ears.


    Catherine took a phone call, quickly excused herself and hurried off, no doubt diving straight back into


    work.


    Watching Catherine''s hasty retreat, Gevena warned me nervously, "You should brace yourself too, you


    might get pulled into this."


    I gave a wry smile. "Gevena, you think I''ll just be ''pulled'' into this? The online mob hasn''t let up at all.


    Given what just happened, I''m still their main target. They won''t let me off the hook. But, the more they


    stir, the closer we are to the truth. Let them make a fuss."


    Gevena suddenlyughed, eximing, "You really are a tough cookie, aren''t you?"


    I shrugged, "What else can I do? Can I avoid it? I''m the eye of the storm. These whirlwinds are swirling


    around me."


    Just then, my phone vibrated. I quickly picked it up and saw a message from Dr. Dailey. I was taken


    aback and quickly clicked on the link he sent.


    What appeared before my eyes was the test report I had been waiting for.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I couldn''t help but zoom in, but unfortunately, the name I wanted to see wasn''t listed.


    I quickly scrolled up to check the final results...

 Chapter 258

    Chapter 258


    I was so nervous when I saw the results showing the chromosomes in a high degree of simrity,


    kinship, but not father and son.


    My hand tightened, and my heart rate began to flutter.


    Gevena turned to me, "What''s up?"


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I briefly mentioned the test results to her.


    Gevena asked me directly, "Who do you think it is?"


    I shook my head, filled with worry, "I can''t hazard a guess." I pulled Gevena aside, towards a corner of


    the room where we had a clear view of the entire hall. No risk of eavesdroppers here.


    Then, I turned to Gevena, my voice weak, "But I have this feeling, there''s something off about ra. I


    suspect she''s tied up with Jerome somehow. I just don''t have anything on her yet."


    Gevena tried tofort me, "Don''t stress too much. Even if it is Jerome, what then? I can''t believe he


    could get away with everything. Stir up a storm?"


    I looked at Gevena, speaking earnestly, "Gevena, you don''t understand the depths of their cruelty.


    Jerome has connections overseas, he controls the ck market, what we know is just the tip of the


    iceberg. And ra, she knows too much. If she''s in cahoots with Jerome, that''s a terrifying prospect."


    The mere thought made me feel drained.


    Gevena looked at me in disbelief, "So, what''s your next move?"


    I remained silent for a moment, then murmured, "One step at a time."


    Gevena didn''t understand, her gaze filled with confusion, "What do you mean?"


    I looked at her, exining, "I''ll start with the two sisters, Zora and ra. Zora thought she could just


    walk away from everything, that the past would be forgotten. She was deluded! Marissa''s death might


    be connected to them. She thinks that they can do as they please after I drove them out, but I''ll show


    them."


    "They thought it was water under the bridge!" Gevena also snorted.


    "Water under the bridge?" I gave Gevena a look, raised an eyebrow, "Hardly! The things she has done


    to me are too numerous to record. The memory of that pain still lingers. And now she''s living in my


    house, enjoying life. Does she think I''m a pushover?"


    "Indeed, she''s having the time of her life!"


    "I didn''t move against her earlier because I didn''t want to spook the herd, especially when Jan


    controlled everything. But it''s different now. All those mortgages have been cleared, she needs to get


    out. Even if I have to donate everything, I won''t leave a single penny for them, including the Dawson


    family. Anything they took from me, they''ll have to spit it back out!"


    "But that''s just the tip of the iceberg. What if he refuses to give up the rest?" Gevena appeared worried,


    "Jan''s no fool, he''s been so cautious this time, it''s clear that whatever''s left..."


    "He doesn''t have a choice! Don''t forget, he has a greedy heart! It''s in the Dawson family''s nature. The


    Wilburn family still has a whole block, not to mention VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals..." Iughed at Gevena,


    "Do you think he could resist?"


    "Ha... he''s even eyeing that?" Gevena was incredulous, "He''s asking for trouble!"


    "He''s already nned with Irving Bradlee to undermine the Wilburn family, should I let him off?" I


    scoffed, then continued, "The child missing case is what Zora''s doing. I''m sure of it. Gevena, I... I want


    to save that child! Regardless, the child is innocent."


    Gevena looked surprised, seemingly shocked by my words. She stared at me for a while before asking,


    "Are you sure?"

 Chapter 259

    Chapter 259


    I nodded, a heavy weight pressing down on my chest, making it hard to breathe. "The kid''s had it


    rough," I said.


    "Indeed, he''s just a child!" Gevena also showed sympathy.


    "The kid is cute. He has tender skin and big, sparkling eyes. I remember holding his small hand once


    when no one came to pick him up after school. He desperately clung to me, yet was cautious. He''s a


    clever child. He looked up at me, his big eyes full of curiosity."


    A vision of him standing alone outside the school gate flickered in front of my eyes, a sudden pang


    tugging at my heart.


    "I''m telling you, Gevena, I have this strange feeling that the kid would think of me when he''s scared," I


    confessed.


    "You''re overthinking, Aaliyah!" Gevena shot me a nce. "You''ve only met him a few times!"


    "Maybe so, but I feel a connection. I can sense him crying out for me to rescue him," I said. "He''s in a


    dark corner somewhere, shivering, waiting for me to hold his hand and bring him back!" As I spoke,


    tears welled up in my eyes.


    Gevena looked at me thoughtfully and warned me, "Think this through, Aaliyah."


    I remained silent.


    Seeing that I was not responding, Gevena continued, "This is a point of no return. If you want to help,


    that''s fine. But think about the aftermath. This is not something you can solve impulsively. There will be


    a lot ofplications."


    Looking at the bustling crowd in the grand hall,ughter echoing around, I felt an inexplicable irritation.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "But I want to do this, and if we dy, it will be toote!" I said, my voice rising instinctively.


    Gevena patted me gently, "That''s why I''m telling you to think it through. Let''s not even talk about who


    the father is. Just the fact that he''s Marissa¡¯s child brings a lot of issues. Can you handle that?¡± She


    asked me.


    I hadn''t realized that Gevena was such a rational person! I smiled at her, "I haven''t thought that far. My


    priority is to find the kid and ensure his safety."


    I grew more excited, "Even if he''s Marissa''s child, he has the right to live, right? As for the rest, let''s


    leave it to fate. We should do what we can, and leave the rest up to God."


    Gevena shook her head and smiled, "That''s a risky bet, Aaliyah! What if one day he returns to the


    Dawson family, and turns out to be your enemy?¡±


    "Gevena, you''re being melodramatic!" I stared at her, struggling to digest her words. But I knew she


    was speaking the truth, but I just didn''t want to admit it.


    "I''m just being realistic. There''s an old saying, ''There''s no gratitude in raising someone else''s child.''¡±


    Gevena said, with a rationality that chilled me to the bone.


    For some reason, Gevena''s words sent a chill down my spine. I had to admit that she was right from a


    certain perspective.


    Suddenly, I thought of Nettie. Do people really have such a cruel nature? Would raising her result in no


    gratitude from her?


    I gave a bitter smile and said to Gevena, ¡°Catherine always says I¡¯m too softhearted. But now I¡¯ve seen


    what real cruelty is.¡±


    Gevena alsoughed, "You''ve seen some really bizarre things, Aaliyah. Honestly, hearing about your


    experiences makes me question humanity! They''re really bold, not fearing retribution at all."


    "I don''t know about others, but those who''ve wronged me won''t get away with it!" I said coldly.


    "Don''t forget, revenge can also hurt yourself. The priority should be your own safety!" Gevena was a


    good friend, I knew that. She was trying to protect me.


    I looked at Gevena silently and said, "Gevena, maybe something terrible is happening, or has already


    happened. The world is full of surprises, and people''s hearts are unpredictable, especially when it


    I paused for a moment, then continued, "Perhaps, Jta''s car crash wasn''t merely a coincidence!"


    This statement caught Gevena''s attention. She looked at me in surprise, "Do you have any evidence?"


    "Let''s wait until Jta recovers and canmunicate with Janice. Then we''ll see!" I cautioned her,


    ¡°Don''t mention this to Janice yet. Let her recover first. Then we''ll talk again."


    Gevena nodded, "Do you know something?"


    So, I told her about the conversation I had with Catherine and Olivia. On hearing it, Gevena was


    shocked!

 Chapter 260

    Chapter 260


    Gevena''s reaction didn''t surprise me in the least. She sat there, dumbfounded for a good while before


    finally asking, "You mean, Jta actually discussed a divorce settlement with Irving?"


    I nodded in affirmation. "Think about it, how did that divorce settlemente about? Who knows?"


    Gevena, usually so refined, couldn¡¯t help but curse. "This is... this is just too damn... terrifying! How


    could such a thing happen?"


    "That''s why Janice is sharp as a tack. She suspected something was off straight away. She just didn''t


    know about the divorce settlement. But think about it, Jta is no fool. Would she easily agree to a


    divorce?" I asked Gevena.


    "You''re right. If it weren''t for a satisfactory oue, Jta wouldn''t have agreed to the divorce. Or


    else why would she have strung him along for so many years, exhausting herself?" Gevena nodded in


    agreement.


    Then, I voiced a bold spection to Gevena. "Do you think Jta might have had some dirt on


    Irving? Not infidelity, of course. I''m talking about... thepany, perhaps?"


    Gevena looked shocked again. Clearly, my spection resonated with her. She looked at me, "That


    could be it. Or else why would Janice say that on the day of the ident, Jta called her, asking her


    to keep something safe? Jesus... the more I think about it, the scarier it gets."


    Our eyes met, and we both fell silent, voicing the same sentiment, "The more you think about it, the


    scarier it gets."


    I then reminded Gevena, "So, let''s not bring it up with Janice for now. We''ll wait till she''s recovered."


    "But... I... I''m starting to worry about Jta''s safety!" Gevena looked at me earnestly.


    "It seems we need to think of a n, a precautionary measure," I muttered.


    The party went onte into the night, and it wasn''t until Mayor Arlen and his wife left that I, exhausted,


    decided to bow out.


    Meanwhile, Ronan had already left, escorted out by Mayor Arlen himself. He nced at me from afar, a


    silent nod of acknowledgment.


    As I was saying my goodbyes, I noticed Jerome, who hadn''t been around for a while, now leisurely


    enjoying drink and chat with men.


    When I passed by, he nonchntly acknowledged me with a nod.


    I left with Hannah, grumbling in my mind about Jerome''s aloofness. Once we got downstairs, I asked


    Hannah, "Have you kept an eye on Jerome? Has he been around all this time?"


    Hannah shook her head, "I honestly haven''t paid attention."


    I fell silent. For some reason, I had this uneasy feeling, as if something was off.


    The rain was stilling down hard outside, sending chills up my spine.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Hannah pulled me back into the lobby. "Miss, you wait here, I''ll go get the car!"


    "Maybe we should wait till the rain lets up a bit," I suggested, looking at Hannah''s elegant gown. If she


    went out, she would surely be soaked.


    "No worries, I''ll consider it a shower! You''re already tired!" She shed a toothy grin, "I''ll be quick, just


    wait here!" And off she went, running into the rain.


    I watched her sprint away, feeling a warmth in my heart. We hadn''t been together for long, but she


    treated me with such care, like family. What did I do to deserve such kindness from so many people? I


    must be truly blessed.


    I instinctively pushed the door open and stepped outside. The overhang of the building shielded me


    from the rain, but it was still chilly.


    Perhaps due to the rain, there were no paparazzi lurking outside the building, only a few security


    personnel patrolling the area. I had no idea where Hannah had parked. It was probably too far away.


    As I stood there, a car sped up the driveway. I assumed it was Hannah''s and took a couple of steps


    forward, but I didn''t recognize the license te.


    Just as I was starting to wonder, the car door opened, and a bald man stepped out. He quickly ran up


    the stairs. I instinctively moved aside, but as he brushed past me, he suddenly spun around, his arm


    wrapping around my neck, and a piece of cloth covering my mouth and nose.


    The next thing I knew, I was being dragged down the stairs, and then everything went ck.

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    Chapter 261


    When I came to, I was enveloped in darkness. My arms were twisted behind me, aching as if they were


    on the verge of snapping. I instinctively tried to pull them free but found myself immobilized.


    It was then that I realized my hands and feet were bound tightly together, rendering me incapable of


    movement. My mouth was covered with duct tape, allowing only muffled sounds to escape.


    The splitting headache made me feel like I was on death''s door. The terrifying reality soon dawned on


    me ¨C I was kidnapped.


    The thought sent a wave of panic washing over me. I whimpered, feeling an overwhelming sense of


    despair that I had never experienced before.


    How did this happen? Who could have done this?


    The audacity of these people was bewildering. The city officials were still at a cocktail party in the


    building, and yet they dared toy a hand on me. It was a brazen act!


    I was standing near the entrance of the building, not far from the security patrol. Despite the close


    proximity, they had the nerve to strike. Their audacity was mind-boggling ¨C they had abducted me right


    under everyone''s noses!


    The speed of it all was astonishing. I had no idea what had just happened. I didn''t even get a good look


    at the man who choked me ¨C all I saw was his shiny bald head.


    The car looked a lot like the one Hannah drives, a sleek ck sedan. That''s probably why I walked


    towards it, thinking I could quickly get into the car. But I distinctly remembered that the car didn''t have a


    license te.


    Everything was obviously premeditated. What I couldn''t understand was, how did they know it was me


    who woulde out? Clearly, they were after me.


    How did they know Hannah would go get the car? Had it been arranged beforehand? Or did they know


    where Hannah had parked? That''s the only way they could have been so audacious.


    I was filled with regret, wishing I had listened to Hannah and stayed inside the building.


    Would they have found it harder to abduct me if I had stayed inside? Maybe none of this would have


    happened. But it was toote for regrets. I had to face the reality.


    I shut my eyes, took a deep breath, and tried to calm myself down.


    The ce was damp, and the sound of rain was clear. A foul smell of mud filled my nostrils, along with


    a nauseating stench of decay.


    I was engulfed in darkness, trying to move my body, adjust my head, and squint to make out my


    surroundings. My heart sank when I realized where I was ¨C not in a house or a room, but inside a


    sewer pipe barely over a meter in diameter.


    The pipe was about two or three meters long, with wild grass growing at both ends.


    I couldn''t see the outside, only the sound of the rain trickling down.


    Every now and then, I could hear the sound of cars driving past. It seemed I wasn''t too far from the


    road.


    I closed my eyes again, trying to regte my breathing. With my mouth sealed and confined in this


    cramped space, I felt suffocated.


    Fear was making me shiver. I tried to control my emotions, racking my brains for a way to save myself.


    I had no idea if my kidnappers were nearby. I didn''t dare make a sound. Even if I wanted to, my mouth


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    was taped shut and my hands and feet were tied. The only way to make a noise was by banging my


    head against the pipe wall, but logic told me that wasn''t a good idea.


    Who could have done this? The question kept spinning in my head.


    Logically, Hannah would have noticed my absence when she returned with the car. Or the security


    patrol nearby would have seen me being taken away. Even if it happened quickly, they would have


    noticed, right?


    They should havee to my rescue. So, why was I left here?

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    Chapter 262


    Once I managed to collect myself, my mind began to clear. I spected that after they kidnapped me,


    they must have been pursued. Fearing they''d be exposed, they hid me, tossing me into an abandoned


    roadside culvert.


    That way, even if they were caught, there''d be no trace of me in their vehicle, leaving them in the clear.


    Finding me now, however, wouldn''t be so easy.I had no idea where I was. But from the sounds outside,


    I figured this ce was far from the city.


    Apart from the pitter-patter of rain and the asional car speeding by, there were no other sounds. A


    wave of sadness washed over me, tears trickling down my cheeks. I didn''t know what kind of vortex I''d


    been sucked into that keptnding me in such difficult situation.


    Iughed bitterly. I couldn''t understand why these people had set their sights on me. They''d taken my


    wealth, and now they wanted my life!


    But I was certain that Jan wasn''t behind this. Could it be Jerome? I remembered eavesdropping on


    their conversation! But why would he have it out for me?


    I''d never had any conflicts with Jerome. Why was he hell-bent on making my life miserable? Moreover,


    when I left, he was still at the cocktail party.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    But if it wasn''t him, I couldn''t think of anyone else who''d have such a grudge against me.


    The rain outside waxed and waned, the biting wind whistling. When I left the cocktail party, it waste


    at night, and now I had no idea what time it was.


    The chill of damp air attacked me. I was d in a thin cocktail dress, soaked from the rain and sticking


    to my skin, making me shiver uncontrobly. I curled up involuntarily.


    I kept reassuring myself, ¡°don''t be scared, they''lle to rescue me.¡±


    Hannah would know immediately that I''d been kidnapped and she''d report to Ronan, who wouldn''t just


    stand by and do nothing. He''de to rescue me without wasting a second.


    The mere thought of Ronan engulfed my heart with warmth. The memory of his kiss yed in my mind.


    Truth be told, I cherished that feeling. It brought a unique, unprecedented sense of security! To me, it


    was a kiss I''d been waiting for twelve years, even though it wasn''t on my lips.


    At this moment, I regretted running when he was about to kiss me. It wasn''t betrayal. It was Jan who


    put my life in danger that led me back to my long-lost love, the one I''d yearned for.


    Tears welled up in my eyes, regret overwhelming me.


    If I just die here... I haven''t told him that I really like him. If it wasn''t for the initial abrupt parting, there


    would''ve been no Jan.


    I wasn''t trying to vindicate myself. Even though it was all my fault, before I die I wanted him to know my


    feelings, that I loved him deeply.


    No, I can''t die like this! I couldn¡¯t help thinking, ¡°I have to live. I have a lot of things to do, wishes to


    fulfill, I have to apany my parents, watch my three precious ones excel, witness their growth, their


    marriages, and children... I can''t think about death! I can''t just wait here to die. Once my kidnappers


    return, I might not have any hope of survival.¡±


    The will to live once regained gives one strength. I tried to wiggle my hands bound behind me. They


    were tightly wrapped, almost numb. I struggled a bit, only to find that I was not tied with a rope, but with


    stic tape, probably the same tape that had been used to gag me.


    Reality hit me again. Without something sharp, there was no way to cut the tape.


    Was I just going to wait here to die?

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    Chapter 263


    But my struggles were futile, the duct tape that bound me remained as tight as ever, showing no signs


    of loosening.


    I was gasping for breath, my heart beating painfully. I knew I couldn''t waste my energy in pointless


    struggles. I had to preserve my strength, cing my hope in their eventual rescue. I had fought, I


    reassured myself, there was no regret.


    In my mind, an image surfaced unbidden. A warm, soft bed bathed in gentle light, covered in a fragrant


    quilt. How I longed to take a good rest!


    On such a rainy night, there were likely no people outside. Even the celebratory feast should be over


    by now.


    It was even more quiet. The sounds of passing cars that were present just a while ago had gradually


    disappeared.


    I had no idea what time it was. God knows how much time had passed. I was in a hazy state, half


    asleep yet somehow fully aware.


    Suddenly, I detected faint footsteps gradually approaching me. I was instantly jolted awake. Every hair


    on my body stood at attention as I strained to listen for any movement outside.


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    Indeed, there were small noisesing, sounding like footsteps or perhaps a small animal, but it was


    still too faint. I struggled to keep my eyelids from drooping, my eyes fixated on the direction of the


    entrance of my confinement.


    A terrifying thought crossed my mind, could it be a snake? Then, I saw a child''s face, a real and vivid


    child''s face.


    I was instantly awoken, my eyes wide as I stared at the face. That face was too familiar, it was the face


    I had been longing to see these past days! Indeed, it was Evan''s face.


    I couldn''t believe my eyes, I stared hard, only to see the small child cautiously approaching me, then


    squatting in front of me. Our eyes met.Hisrge eyes were full of anticipation.


    I desperately tried to call his name, but only muffled sounds came out.


    I anxiously scanned him up and down, noticing his soaked clothes and the mud covering him. His face,


    however, was still clean, hisshes carrying droplets of water or perhaps tears.


    My eyes remained on his face, and he seemed to understand and carefully asked, "Mommy, why didn''t


    youe find me?"


    I choked on my tears, wanting to tell him how much I wanted to find him, how much I missed him!


    He seemed to understand my silent pleas. Suddenly his eyes filled with tears, pouring down his face.


    "Mommy, I''m scared, no one ising to save me... you aren''ting either. They didn''t give me food,


    they hit me, they won''t let me go home to find mommy. Mommy, you said you''d find me, but why


    haven''t youe? I''ve been waiting for you to find me..."


    His pitiful face, his pale crying face, and his whimpering voice were tearing my heart apart.


    I was filled with desperation, my muffled cries echoing my heart''s pleas. I continuously struggled to


    move closer to him, tofort him, to hold him. But he was just out of reach.


    I choked back my tears and told him, "Baby, don''t cry! Don''t worry, mommy wille find you. As soon


    as I get out of here, I''lle find you, I''ll bring you home! No matter what happens, mommy will find


    you."


    He seemed to understand, sadly shaking his head and slowly reaching out to pat my forehead.


    His hand was cold, chilling to the bone. "Mommy, you don''t have to find me anymore, I have to go


    now!"


    "No, don''t go, where are you going? Tell mommy where you''re going?" I pleaded desperately, my voice


    a hoarse scream, "Don''t go, ... wait here, someone wille to save us, please stay! Stay with


    mommy, okay?"

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    Chapter 264


    The urgency in my whimpering made the boy halt in his tracks, his tear-filled eyes looking at me as he


    shook his head.


    He was crouched right in front of me, so small and obedient, his eyes never leaving mine.


    After a while, he cleaned his face with his tiny arms and licked his lips with his tongue, seemingly a bit


    helpless as he whispered, "Mommy, I gotta go!"


    I squirmed desperately towards him, shaking my head vigorously, pleading with whimpering wails,


    "Don''t leave, I''ve barely gotten to see you, where would a child like you go? Can you tell me where


    you''re going?"


    He pointed outside and said, "Someone''sing to get me, they can take me away!"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I looked outside the pipe, but all I could see was pitch ckness.


    "Who? Who''s taking you?" I asked, turning to Evan, "Don''t go with strangers¡­"


    Suddenly, I realized how ludicrous my words were. What difference did familiarity make? If they weren''t


    familiar, how could they have taken him away in the first ce?


    "Where are you going? Can you tell me?" I pleaded, my eyes blurry with tears, full of reluctance to let


    him go.


    He lowered his gaze, helpless and resigned, murmuring, "I don''t know where they''re taking me. I just


    go where they tell me to."


    "Evan¡­" I called out, weakly shaking my head, "Be a good boy, and stay here with me, someone will


    "Mommy, I know you''re good. I know you woulde to save me, but I can''t wait for you anymore!"


    With that, he turned and started crawling towards the other end of the pipe.


    I called out frantically, "Evan, Evan, don''t go, don''t leave. I will take you away soon, just stay here¡­"


    But he had already crawled to the other side of the pipe. He turned his head, shed me a smile and


    said, "Mommy, goodbye!"


    Then he disappeared from my sight.


    "Evan¡­" My body shuddered and I suddenly woke up. I was sobbing, gasping for air, my body


    drenched in cold sweat. Looking around in panic, I realized it was just a bizarre dream.


    I looked outside and saw a faint circle of grey light, the rain had stopped, dawn was approaching.


    The rain was heavyst night, water had seeped into the pipe, I was soaked, either by rain or sweat,


    chilling to the bone. I could feel my body starting to go numb.


    Just then, I heard the sound of scrambling footsteps, as if someone was running this way. I tensed up,


    looking outside warily.


    Sure enough, as the footsteps got closer, I saw a pair of legs appear at the entrance of the pipe.


    I stared in horror, the next moment, a form loomed into my view, it was the bald man who had drugged


    and kidnapped me.


    Before I could react, he quickly leaned in, grabbed my tied legs and yanked. Suddenly, I was pulled out


    of the pipe, my skin burning from the friction. I growled in anger, struggling against the ropes. The bald


    man impatiently kicked me, cursing, "Shut up, bitch, or I''ll take care of you right now, you believe me?"


    I immediately stopped struggling, ring at him. Somehow, I thought of what Addrion had said about


    Northern Myanmar, realizing these desperados could indeed do as they threatened.


    Seeing me no longer struggling, the bald man hoisted my limp body onto his shoulder and started


    running. But then I heard a roaring sound from above, growing louder, then stopping right overhead¡­

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    Chapter 265


    I strained to look up and was immediately taken aback. In the dark blue sky, two helicopters had


    astonishingly appeared.


    Simultaneously, a fleet of police cars materialized on a nearby road, rushing towards us in a flurry


    beforeing to an abrupt halt.


    Bald, who was carrying me, abruptly stopped and began to back away.


    But the powerful beams from the helicopters above focused on us, turning the grey sky a ghostly white.


    Honestly, in the darkness before dawn, I suddenly saw the light. They were really here to rescue me. I


    heard intermittent shouting from the distance, likely telling Bald to let me go.


    ¡°Damn it, damn it all!¡± he roared, spinning on the spot. ¡°You bastards, I won¡¯t let you take her!¡±


    Carried like a sack of potatoes over his shoulder, the constant spinning made my head spin and my


    vision blur. I saw the policemen, guns in hand, gradually closing in.


    Bald, seeing the scene unfolding before him, panicked and started to back away, until he reached a


    nearby pipe, but the spotlight from the helicopters left him with nowhere to hide.


    The police slowly formed a perimeter. The helicopters above also ordered him to release me


    immediately, or he would face the consequences.


    Bald was instantly enraged, and roughly pulled me from his shoulder. I fell to the ground with a thud,


    nearly knocking me out.


    He hoisted me up once again, securing a rough grip around my neck, and in his other hand, he


    produced a chillingly cold handgun. The cold muzzle of the gun was rudely jammed against my head


    as he squared off with the surroundingw enforcement officers. All the while, he was cursing and


    shouting, "Everyone back off, or I swear I''ll shoot her."


    Just then, I saw a ck SUV speeding towards us from the distance, quicklying to a stop on the


    road in front of us. The car door was flung open as it skidded to a stop, and out stepped Ronan,


    followed closely by Hannah.


    Ronan strode towards me, raising his hand to signal the helicopters above to leave. They quickly flew


    off, leaving an eerie silence behind.


    I heard Ronan shout to Bald, "Listen to me, let her go now and I''ll let you live. I mean it!"


    I was too far away to see his facial expressions, but his voice carried an intimidating coldness, an air of


    authority.


    At that moment, my strong facade crumbled and tears slid down my cheeks. I stared at Ronan¡¯s face,


    he had finallye to rescue me. I knew he woulde!


    Bald hit me on the head with his gun, causing a surge of pain that made me bite down hard, holding


    back my tears.


    My arms and legs were tightly bound, and in his grip. I felt like a rag doll, unable to control my


    movements.


    From behind me, I heard Bald''s sinisterughter, "You think if you tell me to let her go, I will? I was


    given a death order. I never nned to walk away alive, but..."


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Heughed sadistically, revealing his final madness, "she has to die with me!"


    At this point, Bald was cornered and his violent nature shone through, showing he had no fear of death.


    Ronan took a few more steps forward, causing Bald to yell, ¡°Stay where you are, or I¡¯ll kill her!¡±


    I stared at Ronan, standing unwaveringly tall and imposing.


    "Bald, drop the gun. Your partners are in custody. Be smart." Ronan''s eyes were fixed on Bald. "Let her


    go. Don''t do anything stupid."


    Bald''s face twisted in rage. One hand tightly gripped my neck, the other held the gun pointed at the


    policemen, "Everyone back off! Back off!"


    He shouted, pressing the gun harder against my head, "All of you, back off, or I¡¯ll kill her!"


    He tightened his grip on my neck, forcing me to lean back. The ''click'' of a bullet being chambered rang


    in my ears¡­

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    Chapter 266


    Ovee with fear, I involuntarily shut my eyes tightly. A silent scream echoed within me ¨C I was at


    fate''s mercy now! To be honest, at that moment, I could feel death''s cold touch just around the corner.


    "Listen up, either you step aside and let me go, or we''re all going to hell together!" Bald roared, his


    breath ragged, his demeanor feral. It was clear he''d lost all rational thought.


    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw one of the policemen beside Ronan nce towards him, while on


    the other side, Hannah''s face had turned ashen. Her eyes were fixed on me, filled with regret and


    defiance.


    Ronan stood tall as if he were the spine that held everyone together. His expressions were stern and


    icy as he closely watched Bald''s every move.


    "I can let you go, but do you really think you have a way out?" Ronan''s voice dripped with disdain,


    seemingly provoking the man behind me. "Don''t you want to know how we found you so quickly?" His


    words seemed to loosen the grip Bald had on his gun against my head.


    "Also, your mother is currently on her deathbed in the hospital. Don''t you want to see her onest


    time?" At Ronan''s words, I felt Bald choke behind me.


    But Ronan didn''t stop there. "You know, she hasn''t touched a dime of the money you''ve sent her. She


    called it blood money, tainted by your nefarious deeds. She''d rather die than spend it. That''s why she''s


    so sick, with only themunity volunteers take care of her. Herst wish is to see you before she


    dies." Each word from Ronan was like a punch to the gut.


    Bald''s breathing became heavier, the stench of his breath making me nauseous. The arm around my


    neck started to tremble.


    Meanwhile, Ronan continued, "You think you''re a dutiful son, but where is your respect for your


    parents? Your mother''s illness is a result of the stress you''ve caused her. If she knew what you''re doing


    right now, do you think she could bear it? Wouldn''t you regret that for the rest of your life?" Every word


    from Ronan was like a bullet, hurting Bald deeply.


    "Shut up... Shut up!" As expected, Bald was enraged, his voice thunderous and causing my ears to


    ring. I knew, he''d lost his mind.


    I was terrified, my body felt limp, but I gritted my teeth and didn''t make a sound.


    At that moment, Ronan gave Hannah amand, "Hannah, turn on the webcam in his mother''s room,


    let him see his mother onest time!"


    Bald behind me tightened his grip on me, yelling, "Shut up, don''t you dare... Let me go, get out of the


    way!" In reality, although I was his shield, I was also a burden to him.


    Because I couldn''t move on my own, my entire weight was pressing down on his arm, making him


    exhausted. I guessed, he really wanted to let go of me.


    Ronan responded to his rage, his voice firm, without a hint of backing down, "I can let you go, but first,


    you have to let go of your hostage!"


    At that moment, my heart was pounding in fear. I didn''t understand why Ronan was so calm. Wasn''t he


    afraid that his words would enrage Bald and he''d shoot me without a second thought?


    After all, Bald was a desperate at this time.


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Just then, Hannah shouted, "Chief, the webcam is on!"


    Bald seemed to panic, quickly pulling the gun from my head and pointing it at Hannah, "Don''t you


    dare..."


    At that moment, a sharp gunshot echoed through the air, something hot and sticky sshed onto my


    cheek...

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    Chapter 267


    The sudden warm blood sshed on my face, mingled with the pervasive scent of blood in the air, was


    the straw that broke me. I felt as if my spirit had left my body.


    I stood there, numb, as the warm fluid slid down my face. Suddenly, like a lifeless doll, I was thrown


    aside, my body copsing forward as I lost all sense of bnce...


    I saw Ronan sprinting towards me, arms outstretched. I fell into hisforting embrace.


    In the midst of the chaos around us, I wanted to smile at him, to show him that I was still strong. But


    then everything went dark, and I lost consciousness.


    When I woke up, I was in a hospital bed. The room was quiet, save for Hannah''s presence.


    Seeing me awake, she rushed out to get the doctor.


    After examining me, the doctor smiled kindly at Hannah, "She''s fine. Make her on a light diet,


    something nutritious and easy to digest. She''ll recover soon, but she needs rest."


    Hannah, concerned, asked about the abrasions on my arm.


    "It''s just a surface wound. It has already scabbed over. Just keep the showers short," the doctor replied


    patiently.


    "Will it leave a scar?" Hannah asked.


    "Depends on her healing. If you''re worried about scarring, I can prescribe a cream. It works wonders,"


    the doctor assured her.


    As soon as the medical staff had left, Catherine and Gevena rushed in, with Catherine carrying a pile of


    takeout containers.


    "Aaliyah, you scared us," Gevena said,ing straight to my bedside.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I tried to lighten the mood by grinning. "I must be the luckiest person alive, I''ve cheated death twice


    now!"


    "Stop it, you scared the life out of us!" Catherine said, "Who would dare to kidnap you so boldly? They


    must be insane!"


    "I guess I was unlucky recently," I joked. "Next time I go out, I''ll have to check the astrology! By the


    way, who kidnapped me?" This was my main concern.


    "Their identities are still unclear," Hannah replied.


    "What do you mean unclear?" I asked, propping myself up to a sitting position.


    "ording to Bald..." Hannah began, but I cut her off, "wait... Bald is still alive?" I asked, surprised.


    "Of course he''s alive," Hannah said, "The bullet only hit his gun hand."


    "Who shot him?" I asked, curious about the series of events.


    "A sniper," Hannah said.


    "A sniper was involved?" I asked, stunned at the lengths they had gone to ensure my safety.


    Hannah looked remorseful as she said, "I''m sorry, ma''am. I failed in my duty to protect you."


    I brushed off her apology. "Hey, it''s not your fault. Who could have predicted this? Now, tell me about


    Bald."


    Hannah saw the urgency in my eyes and continued her story. "Bald was just following orders from the


    driver."


    Of course, there was a driver when Bald kidnapped me.


    "But the drivermitted suicide by poison when we caught him," Hannah added.


    I stared at Hannah in shock. "What?"

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    Chapter 268


    Hannah nodded gravely, "Yes, suicide! No one expected that he had poison on him. After we caught


    him, on the way to the station, he took the poison."


    "Damn...it''s like straight out of a spy movie," I remarked. All three shrugged and chuckled.


    "But what''s weird is, we can''t trace his real identity."


    "Why not?" I asked, baffled. The police couldn''t find out someone''s identity? That was news to me.


    Hannah rified, "More precisely, we found too many identities for him, all of them foreign. And Bald is


    just one of his temporary henchmen. So, Bald doesn''t know who at the top gave the order to this driver.


    Furthermore, Bald and this driver were just a temporary team as they hadn''t met before!"


    "The question is, who gave Bald the order to cooperate with the driver?" I voiced my doubt.


    Hannah was equally puzzled, "The one who called Bald to carry out the task, was this driver!"


    Gevena remarked, "It seems like what you''ve been suspecting, Aaliyah, is true. Haven''t you always felt


    like there''s a hidden hand pushing everything?"


    I fell silent, was there another instigator besides the Dawson family? But I was certain, this mole, must


    be from the Dawson family, especially Jerome!


    "What I still don''t get is, from the beginning, how did you find out I was kidnapped?" I asked eagerly. I


    was desperate to know, who kidnapped me, and why?


    Catherine interjected, "Can we talk while eating, please? Aren''t you hungry? You''ve been unconscious


    for two days, how do you still have energy? Are you a camel?"


    I smiled helplessly and quickly replied, "If you hadn''t brought it up, I wouldn''t have noticed. I am indeed


    hungry! Alright then, let''s eat first."


    Hannah hastily took the takeout box from Catherine, and apologized, "I''ll do it! It''s my fault for not


    taking better care of you, Miss!"


    I rolled my eyes at her, "Here we go again!"


    Hannah sighed, "Miss, just thinking about it scares me. I regret not getting the car first before calling


    you down."


    "They would have found a way to distract you if they wanted to kidnap me. It was inevitable! It''s written


    in my fate!" Iforted her, "Let''s just say I had to ovee this obstacle!"


    Gevenaughed, looking at me, "You sure have a big heart!"


    Hannah continued, "They must have been watching us for a while. They knew where I parked the


    moment we did, calcting the timing perfectly."


    "It seems these people have been nning this for a long time!" I said, feeling a bit uneasy.


    Hannah went on, "We reviewed the hotel''s surveince footage. The moment I ran out to get the car,


    theirs was already started and ready to go. As soon as I crossed the main road to retrieve our car,


    theirs drove in."


    "It seems someone tipped them off." I said confidently, "Otherwise, how could they be so urate in


    knowing we were already outside?"


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    Hannah nodded, "From the surveince footage, the security guard nearby noticed something was


    wrong the moment Bald covered your mouth and nose. But their car was too fast. They got you and


    drove off quickly."


    "By the time I got into our car, nning to pull out and pick you up, I saw their car racing away in the


    opposite direction. The security guard ran out soon after.


    I realized something was wrong at the mansion, so I quickly drove back, asked them what happened,


    and they said someone was hijacked, in that car. That made me anxious, I looked towards the mansion


    entrance but didn''t see you, and asked them who was hijacked! They gave me a description and I


    knew something bad happened, it was you! I quickly turned the car around to chase them, then


    reported to the boss."


    Hannah still looked shaken recounting the event, showing how frantic she was at the time.


    "After I chased them, their car was nowhere to be found. I asked the boss to track them, but we


    couldn''t." Hannah sighed.


    That''s when I remembered, and eximed, "Oh no...where''s my phone?"

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    I was genuinely bbergasted. Because my phone held a Pandora''s box of secrets, and I¡¯d be done for


    if it ever fell into the wrong hands.


    Hannah quickly reassured me, "Don''t panic, it''s safe!"


    "Where is it?" I asked, my voiceced with urgency.


    "When you got knocked out, you dropped your phone, luckily, they were in too much of a hurry to make


    their escape to bother picking it up," Hannah exined, "That''s why we couldn''t track you."


    Frustrated, I remembered that Hannah had warned me to keep my phone on and charged 24/7. But


    who could''ve foreseen such a turn of events?


    It seemed the bestid ns always being awry!


    "So, where''s my phone now?"


    "Don''t worry, it''s with me!" Hannah replied, a yful smile on her face as she pulled my phone from her


    pocket and handed it to me.


    "I was worried it might''ve ended up in the hands of strangers!" I exined, then asked, "So, how did we


    locate that car?"


    "Mr. Richardson contacted the traffic department and tracked the surveince footage from the building


    at the time you disappeared. We quickly determined the direction the car had taken. Several teams,


    including a helicopter, were dispatched to track it down. The whole process took less than 20 minutes."


    "I was in the dark about all this," I sighed with regret, "Where did they finally find me?"


    "You were found northwest of Goldenvale Town, in a vige called Cobblestone," Hannah was precise,


    "But your hiding spot is still quite a distance from the vige!"


    "What about the car?" I inquired further.


    "We intercepted the car 67 kilometers from Goldenvale Town, but to our surprise, you weren''t in it,"


    disappointment was evident on Hannah ''s face.


    I pped my forehead, "Just as I suspected. They must''ve dumped me on a stretch of road with no


    surveince!"


    "The worst part was, the driver was incredibly stubborn and arrogant. Heughed maniacally as we


    arrested him and refused to cooperate, no matter what we asked, he kept his lips sealed!" Hannah


    eximed angrily, "Otherwise, we wouldn''t have taken so long to find you!"


    "Actually, it was quite quick!" Catherine interjected.


    Hannah continued, "The cops didn''t have time to waste, so they swiftly arrested him. But then, he


    swallowed poison. It all happened within a matter of minutes, and there was no time to save him."


    "What a desperado!" I expressed with a shudder, "It''s a shame I never even got a glimpse of him!


    Everything happened so fast, I didn''t even get a good look at Bald''s face!"


    Hannah resumed, "You wouldn''t believe how desperate the cops were. They were ready to do anything


    to make him talk. But with him dead, all leads were cut off. Searching the 67 kilometers of unmonitored


    road would have taken two days, by then it could''ve been toote."


    I could only imagine the state of the cops at the time.


    "Mr. Richardson was sharp, though. He was certain that Bald would be near your hiding ce. He


    studied their escape route and the surveince blind spots, pinpointed a few locations, and used


    drones to scout them," Hannah grinned, "Sure enough, at around 3 AM, Bald''s trace was found, and so


    were you!"


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    "Bald was near me?" I asked, disbelief coloring my voice.


    Hannah nodded, "Yes, Bald was squatting under a bridge less than two kilometers away from your


    hiding spot. As soon as he moved, the drone spotted him, and everyone rushed to the location."


    "No wonder the cops arrived so fast, like angels descending from heaven," I eximed, "How long was


    I there?"


    "From the moment you were taken till you were rescued, a total of 5 hours and 20 minutes!"


    "5 hours and 20 minutes." I repeated, those few hours felt like an eternity to me.


    But I knew it must''ve felt the same for the cops and Ronan and his team. I hadn''t realized how many


    people had stayed up all night in search of me, and that thought warmed my heart.


    Suddenly, I found myself yearning to see Ronan. As if on cue, Ronan made his entrance into the room


    just as he crossed my mind.

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    He saw Gevena and Catherine present, giving them a nod in greeting. Then he turned to me, asking


    softly, "How are you feeling? Are you alright?"


    He was dressed in a ck shirt and trousers, exuding an air of masculinity. As our eyes met, I could


    feel a sudden flush on my face.


    "I''m fine."


    "You must be kidding! Fine? Do you have any idea what you did when you were brought here?"


    Catherine looked at me, her face full of curiosity, her expression overly dramatic, "You were delirious,


    feverish, screaming."


    I stared at her in shock, "Are you talking about me?"


    Catherine burst intoughter, "Mr. Richardson, listen to this. She''s saying it wasn''t her. Well, I wouldn''t


    know then who could have done such a thing. If it wasn''t you, was it me? Just like this..." As she spoke,


    she waved her hands around in the air, gesturing wildly at me, "Just like this. Don''t tell me that you


    didn''t know."


    I was speechless at Catherine''s exaggerated performance, then turned to Gevena for confirmation, "Is


    she talking about me? Did something like this really happen?"


    Gevena, always serious, nodded, "Yes, indeed it did. You were probably just scared."


    I felt speechless as I stole a nce at Ronan. He was watching me with a smirk on his face.


    It made me embarrassed. I wished I didn''t know anything about it.


    It was Ronan who spoke up for me, "You were already unwell at that time. Plus, you were exposed to


    the cold wind on that dark rainy night, soaked in water for a long time, and faced all this alone. You did


    really well." As Ronan spoke, I could see a hint of concern in his eyes.


    "You have no idea how worried Mr. Richardson was. You were in a terrible state when you were


    brought to the hospital. He stayed by your side until you calmed down." Hannah added.


    I looked at Ronan and a question popped into my mind. I blurted out, "Mr. Richardson, I have a


    question. When Bald had a gun to my head, why did you try to provoke him? Weren''t you afraid he


    would shoot me?"


    I had been pondering over this for a while.


    Ronan furrowed his brows, his expression serious, "Of course I was afraid. But we had done our


    homework before apprehending him. Bald is a tough guy, but he''s actually a devoted son. He may


    trample over others'' pain with his filial piety, but his mother is indeed his Achilles'' heel."


    "So you got his information that quickly?" I was a bit incredulous.


    Hannah exined, "Right before he grabbed you, we identified him from the security footage and ran a


    background check."


    I mentally gave a thumbs-up to Logan. I knew this had to be Logan''s work. Logan only worked for him


    and got him all the information.


    I looked at Ronan, "You used his mother to reign in his devilish side, so you are confident at that time?"


    "Because I told him that we had caught his mother, and he''s terrified of his mother finding out about his


    deeds. So he had to behave," Ronan looked at me tenderly, "To know your enemy is the key to victory."


    "At that time, Bald was very agitated." I shuddered at the memory.


    Ronan continued, "Bald was a poor child. His father died before he was born, killed in a gang fight. His


    mother raised him, struggling all the way. But he had his father''s violent genes, hot-tempered and


    ruthless. He started getting into fights at a young age, causing his mother a lot of worry. He feared no


    one in this world except his mother."


    Genes again.


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    "Eventually, he repeated his father''s mistakes, maimed someone in a gang fight, and ran away. From


    then on, he was manipted and fell into the underworld. Because of his distinctive appearance, it was


    easy to find his information but hard to catch him. He''s very cunning. Many cases are linked to him,


    and he killed someone. He''s a real desperado."


    "Is that so?"


    "If we hadn''t used his mother to provoke him, he might have dared to shoot you. Plus, only by agitating


    him and making him feel uneasy could we move his hand. Once his gun was off your head, his fate


    was sealed."


    Ronan was now smiling at me, seemingly teasing, "So, are you scared?"

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    I shot him a sideways nce, irritation coating my tone, "Aren''t you scared when you have a gun


    pointed at your head? It''s like something straight out of a crime thriller. I''ve only ever seen this stuff on


    TV, and that''s all pretend. I would''ve thought I''d end up in the real deal. I heard him cock the gun


    clearly."


    Catherine and Geneva were stunned into silence. They hadn''t seen the situation firsthand and


    struggled to imagine the terror at that moment.


    Ronan chuckled, generously dishing out his praise, "But I have to admit that you handled it brilliantly.


    You gritted your teeth and didn''t make a sound. That''s the brave Aaliyah I know."


    "No, I just didn''t want to embarrass you and make you worried."


    The moment the words left my mouth, I realized my mistake, and my face flushed.


    Geneva, noticing our easy banter, shot Catherine a nce, "Aaliyah, why don''t you chat with Mr.


    Richardson alone? Catherine and I are going to check on Janice."


    Ronan quickly interjected, "No need to leave on my ount. I just came to see if she''s awake yet. I


    have to go soon. Youdies should continue your chat."


    He turned to me, his voice softening, "Make sure you eat and get some rest. I''lle see you when I


    have time."


    Suddenly, I remembered something crucial, "Wait. Do you have any news on Evan?"


    Hearing my question, Ronan paused, his gaze thoughtful. Eventually, he shook his head, "Nothing yet.


    If there''s news, you''ll be the first to know."


    He raised an eyebrow, "I have to go now."


    I was taken aback. His answer felt dismissive. It had been days, and his team of experts couldn''t find a


    child. That seemed unlikely.


    Without thinking, my gaze drifted to Hannah. Though I''d never asked about her background, I knew


    she worked for Ronan, especially after hearing her call him boss.


    Catching my gaze, she quickly waved her hands, "Don''t ask me. I honestly don''t know."


    Hannah washed her hands off the matter.


    I huffed, "Then I''ll find him myself. I have to."


    Geneva, seeing my determination, sighed helplessly, "How do you n on finding him?"


    "I have my ways. If there are no clues, then I''ll have to confront Zora." I was convinced that Zora was


    involved.


    "I need to act fast. We can''t just sit around. Evan has been missing for days. I refuse to believe there


    are no leads. I fear for his safety. I have a bad feeling. That dream scared me." The words he''d spoken


    to me in the sewer still made my skin crawl.


    Catherine asked, "What dream?"


    So, I recounted the dream I''d had in the sewer. Their faces were nk, and they exchanged nces.


    Silence hung in the air.


    Finally, Catherine broke the silence, "Allie, you''re too kind-hearted."


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    My heart ached at her words.


    "It''s not about being kind-hearted," I protested, "It''s about a mother''s conscience. No matter whose


    child he is, he''s still a child. A sweet, innocent child. He relied on me, so I can''t let him down."


    Just then, the phone in my hand started to ring.

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    I jumped, quickly snatching my phone to check who was calling. As my eyes narrowed, I nced at


    them in the room and said, "It''s ra."


    Gevena''s brow furrowed immediately, "Why is she calling you?"


    I slid my finger to ept the call, putting it on speaker. ra''s voice, tinged with an urgency, echoed in


    the room, "Ms. Aaliyah, I need to see you."


    Everyone present was taken aback by ra''s words. After all, we all knew that ra stood on a blurry


    line between friend and foe.


    After surviving a life-threatening ordeal, her sudden call and urgent request to meet were suspicious. It


    was even more puzzling considering at thest cocktail party, ra was clearly on the opposing side.


    I had suspected that Jerome was the one who had called ra away during the party. However,


    Hannah had witnessed a different scenario Renata was the one who had stealthily handed ra two


    pills, instructing her to wait for furthermands.


    It was because of that exchange that I was able to dodge a bullet that night, otherwise, I would''ve been


    the one embarrassed at the party.


    I took a moment before responding, my tone icy, "Can''t you just tell me what''s up over the phone?"


    ra was firm in her reply, "Ms. Aaliyah, I can''t exin it over the phone."


    "Why do you have to tell me?" I feigned disinterest.


    "Because it''s something you''d want to know. I''m not even sure if I should tell you, and I might be


    overstepping my bounds." ra sounded a bit resentful, but quickly regained her resolve, "But I only


    trust you."


    "Fine. Let''s meet then." I agreed without hesitation, curious to hear what she had to say.


    And I wanted to use this opportunity to gauge her intentions. What was she up to?


    ra immediately asked, "Are you home? I cane to you." She sounded rather impatient.


    "I''m not home. You set the time and ce, I''ll find you."


    I didn¡¯t bother to exin anything more to her. Since I had agreed to meet, what did it matter where?


    Besides, news of my kidnapping was suppressed. It was hardly surprising that ra was in the dark.


    The celebration wasn''t just Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s party, it was also an important event with considerable


    implications. For the hostess to be abducted while the guests were still around was a major


    embarrassment.


    If news had leaked, the reputation of Goldenvale Town would have been severely damaged.


    Moreover, the scandal with Renata was already a blow to our pride, but my kidnapping was far more


    serious.


    I could pin the me on Renata for her behavior, but my abduction was beyond personal mishaps.


    After all, I was the hostess.


    So, the news of my kidnapping was sealed, with no trouble caused. Otherwise, how could I be chatting


    calmly in the hospital room?


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    I agreed to let ra set the meeting, intending to use this chance to probe her. This was the perfect


    opportunity.


    Once I agreed, ra immediately said, "I''ll send you the location soon."


    After she hung up, Catherine voiced her concern, "What could she possibly want, that she can''t discuss


    over the phone? Allie, you need to be careful."


    Gevena had a different opinion, "It may not be dangerous, and we have Hannah with us. But her


    urgency is intriguing. Aaliyah, what do you think it could be?"


    After a moment of contemtion, I looked at Gevena and said uncertainly, "Could it be rted to


    Evan? It''s like a gift that falls into thep, and even if she hadn''t called me, I would''ve met her. For me


    now, this matter is urgent, I can''t wait any longer."


    "But can you handle it with your current health condition?" Hannah looked at me with concern.


    Catherine agreed, "Exactly, your wounds haven''t healed, and you''ve just recovered from a fever. Do


    you have the strength to go out? Can you handle it?"


    "No problem at all," I reassured them, tossing off the covers and getting out of bed, "Hannah, start my


    discharge process immediately. After meeting ra, we''ll head straight home."


    Hannah was bbergasted at my assertiveness.

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    "How can you even suggest that? You need at least a couple more days of observation in the hospital.


    Your health is important. You''re being irresponsible, and you can''t just go out like this. You can go visit


    her, but you don''t have to check out, do you?"


    Looking at me in protest, Hannah warned, "Absolutely not! If you go on like this, I''ll have to inform Mr.


    Richardson. If he agrees with your decision, then I won''t object."


    "Since when do I need his approval for my actions?" I said, feigning annoyance. But deep inside, I


    found itforting, although I stubbornly continued, "We''ll talk about the dischargeter. For now, can


    you find me some clothes? I can''t just go out there in this hospital gown, can I?"


    Hannah beamed at me, "That''s already been taken care of. When Mr. Richardson brought you to the


    hospital and saw your ruined party dress, he immediately sent for new clothes."


    "OK." I thought to myself that he even thought of that. He''s more attentive than I thought.


    Catherine, with a face of resentment, grumbled, "Mr. Richardson is leagues above that scoundrel


    Dawslug. I don''t know why you loved Dawslug.


    "


    "Are you ignorant? How many times have I told you to stop criticizing me? Are you trying to make me


    sick?" I was genuinely fed up with Catherine''s constant chattering. She didn''t care if I wanted to hear it


    and if it hurt my pride, or if it was impacting me negatively.


    But I was the one who let her go on like this.


    Geneva chuckled, "Dawslug really should get an Oscar for his performance."


    "You just now realized he''s a hypocrite? I was stupid to trust his lies." I admitted.


    The three of themughed, and I joined in, although mine was more of a bitterugh.


    Seeing meugh, Catherine quickly filled me in, "When he got the message, he rushed to the hospital


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    in a sh. When he saw you, he acted angry and worried. It was quite the performance. There''s a term


    for it."


    "What?"


    "Overacting. Not even the director could stop him." Catherine eximed dramatically, "Such a


    hypocrite."


    Ourughter grew louder.


    "In the past, he wasn''t this obvious. But now he''s definitely overdoing it." I exined.


    Geneva roared withughter, "Maybe before he wasn''t so insecure, but now he''s desperately trying to


    make up for his mistakes. But as you said, he''s overdoing it."


    "You''re right."


    "He''s put on such a show, but in the end, he''s done nothing."


    "Catherine really hit the nail on the head. He''s done so much, but achieved nothing." Geneva


    continued, "He seemed attentive, but he only stayed the night and rushed off to work early in the


    morning."


    As I started to get out of bed, I asked Hannah to bring me my clothes, "Wouldn''t it be better to be at


    home? We can eat what we want, and do what we want. I hate being here. I feel so ufortable. I''m


    not running a fever anymore, and I''m not on an IV. It''s better to go home because it''s quieter."


    Just as I finished dressing, ra sent me her location. I checked my phone, "She''s at the coffee shop


    on Pine Street, just a block away from our house."


    "You should go meet her first. We''ll talk about the dischargeter. We''ll go check on Janice. If anything


    happens, let us know immediately." Geneva said, looking at me worriedly, "Are you sure you''re okay?


    Don''t push yourself too hard."


    "I understand." I nodded seriously.


    Honestly, I felt fine when I was lying in bed. But the moment I stood up, I felt weak, like my head was


    heavier than my feet and I was floating.


    But I didn''t say anything. No matter what, I had to meet ra.

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    On my way to see ra, a question haunted me. ra''s im of trust seemed contradictory.


    The moment I saw ra, she had transformed back into that meek and docile girl,pletely


    defenseless, totally unlike the day she came to inform me that Zora had taken Evan.


    I knew too well that whenever she switched to be like this, she either needed a favor, or she was up to


    some new trick.


    Walking in without a word, I took a seat across from her, ncing at her, "So, what do you want to talk


    about?"


    She blinked, then lowered her gaze, a conflicted expression on her face, "Ms. Aaliyah, that child is


    lost."


    My head throbbed at her words, and I stared at her sharply, "What do you mean?"


    Her eyes, suddenly full of tears, met mine, "Ms. Aaliyah, I don''t know how to tell you, I lost that child."


    "Speak clearly," I growled, my heart was on fire.


    ra shrunk back, tears streaming down her face, looking pitiful, as if I was the one who had wronged


    her.


    "I lost Evan," ra stated clearly.


    I was in disbelief, "Evan was with you? Didn''t you say Zora had taken him?"


    "He was indeed taken by Zora, butter I took him away." she stammered.


    I was speechless, murmuring, "I underestimated you. So tell me, how did you lose him?"


    "After seeing you that day, I eavesdropped on Zora and Jan''s conversation again, found out where


    Evan was hidden, and took the opportunity to steal him away. And I did a DNA test on him and Jan,"


    ra''s voice trembled, and it was hard for me to believe she could be so nervous.


    I was scrutinizing her, trying to determine if she was putting on an act.


    I was speechless. All of these devils were good actors. I had to stay focused, otherwise, I would be


    manipted.


    "You did a DNA test on Jan and Evan?" I immediately found the answer I was looking for.


    So, the anonymous DNA was Jan''s and Evan''s? That meant Evan was not Jan''s child, but


    Jerome''s.


    I didn''t know whether to feel schadenfreude or sadness. Jan was truly a farce.


    But I couldn''tugh.


    I asked deliberately, "And the result?"


    ra looked at me cautiously, fear in her eyes, "Evan is not Jan''s."


    I stared at her, and she misunderstood my gaze, "I''m not lying, and he really isn''t Jan''s, but..."


    "What is it?"


    "I forged a report, confirming Evan was Jan''s." ra looked at me, quickly adding, "I did this to


    protect Evan from Zora and Jan."


    Her words made me see her in a new light. She was actually concerned about Evan.


    "So why did you say Evan is lost? What happened?" I pressed, staring at her.


    "Ms. Aaliyah, I didn''t expect it to turn out like this. I..." ra seemed flustered, genuinely so, not just


    acting.


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    "Calm down and tell me." I softened my tone, trying not to intimidate her.


    "This fake DNA might have caused trouble." ra started.


    "Why do you say that?" I asked, feeling an inexplicable tension. My concern was for Evan.


    "Because I found out that Zora also secretly did a DNA test on Evan and Jan. But I intercepted her


    report before she could get the results. Then I reced it with the fake one I had made, confirming


    Jan and Evan as father and son. But I didn''t expect Zora to be furious when she saw the results.


    She even exploded with rage, cursing Jan for his disloyalty. She called Maddox, asking him to get


    rid of Evan." ra''s eyes were filled with panic.


    I clenched my hands nervously. I believed that Zora was capable of such a thing.


    But it was ironic. What right did she have to use Jan of disloyalty? As Zora was the one who


    plotted with Jan against me, hiswful wife, it wasughable that she was only just realizing hisck


    of loyalty.


    How utterly ridiculous.

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    "Go on." I gestured to ra.


    "I found Maddox," ra continued, "I convinced him to give me Evan." Her voice was firm, "At first, he


    was adamant that Evan wasn''t with him, but I threatened him. After all, the incident that Zora did at her


    previous employer''s house had given me the ammunition. So, reluctantly, he agreed to hide the kid


    elsewhere."


    "You sure?" I was eager for answers.


    "Yes. I even checked." ra nced at me, looking a bit guilty.


    "You keep saying I''m the one you trust the most, so why do this? If you trust me, why not hand Evan


    over to me?" I fired off questions in rapid session.


    Hearing my words, ra''s face turned ashen.


    I suppressed my anger and continued, "Then tell me, why did Evan disappear?"


    "I don''t know. I don''t know how he disappeared. I''m not sure." ra seemed worried.


    "What kind of answer is that? Didn''t you say Maddox had hidden Evan?" I was barely holding back my


    irritation, "Could Maddox have done this?"


    "No." ra shook her head immediately, but then added, "He wouldn''t dare."


    "If he wouldn''t dare, then why did the kid disappear?" I couldn''t contain my anger anymore, "When did


    he disappear?"


    "He disappeared the night beforest." ra''s voice was uncertain.


    My heart skipped a beat, "The night beforest? That''s the night of the party. You sure it was that


    night?"


    "Yes, because the next day, Maddox called me and said Evan was gone." ra exined, "The party


    endedte that night. I was so tired, and I didn''t think about it. When I got home, I went straight to bed."


    "Did Jane over that night?" I asked.


    She shook her head, "No, he didn''t. I went to bed as soon as I got back. I didn''t see him."


    I pondered. That night I was kidnapped, and everything was in chaos. To keep the news under wraps,


    Jan wasn''t informed until I was safe. So where was he that night? Clearly, he didn''t return to the


    vi, otherwise, he would''ve noticed my absence.


    "Are you sure Maddox is trustworthy? After Zora, has she ever asked Maddox about Evan?" I


    interrogated ra, but something didn''t add up.


    "After I threatened Maddox, he agreed to move Evan. So I haven''t been following this since. He said


    he''d inform Zora that Evan died." ra''s lips were trembling.


    Without another word, I grabbed my phone, intending to call the police.


    Seeing this, ra sprung up, quickly grabbing my hand, "Ms. Aaliyah, please..."


    "Let go! I thought you were different from Zora. I told you, Evan is innocent. Did you just agree with


    me? Do you see him as a pawn in your games?" I could barely control my rage.


    Hearing themotion, Hannah stormed in, and ra let go of my hand in shock.


    She then fell to her knees in front of me, pleading, "Ms. Aaliyah, please." Her face was a picture of


    misery.


    "If you call the police, I''ll be arrested." ra pleaded.


    "Arrested? Isn''t that what you deserve? What have you and Zora done?" I red at her, "I''ve asked you


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    time and again to find Evan and bring him to safety. He''s so young."


    "I wanted to save him. I listened to your words, I know he''s innocent." ra defended herself, "That''s


    why I moved him."


    "Then why didn''t you give him to me?" I roared.


    ra trembled, not daring to meet my gaze, and remained kneeling there.


    I took a deep breath to calm myself, but seeing ra kneeling in front of me, I couldn''t resist a


    sarcastic retort, "So, this is your trust in me?"


    "I was nning to bring him out, and give him to you at the right time." ra was still making excuses,


    "But then he was suddenly gone."

 Chapter 276

    Chapter 276


    Hearing her talk like that, to be honest, I wanted to p her right across the face. But I held back my


    urge. She held grudges, so I couldn''t afford to offend her.


    "Who else knows you''ve moved Evan?" I asked, staring at her. This was the crux of the matter, "And


    don''t tell me no one knows."


    "Only Maddox and I knew about it." ra raised her head to look at me, "So, I was puzzled and dared


    not make it public. But the only person I could tell was you."


    I stood up, towering over her, "You''d better tell me everything. If Evan is in danger, you are just as


    culpable as Zora."


    ra suddenly looked up, her face pale and her eyes filled with fear.


    I stared at her for a moment, then bent down to meet her gaze, "When did you meet Renata?" I asked


    unexpectedly.


    Her pupils contracted in surprise and her lips trembled, avoiding my gaze.


    "Speak!" I demanded forcefully.


    "I don''t know her. She... I..." ra stammered, clearlycking confidence.


    "You don''t know her, yet you dare plot against me for her. Do you think I''m oblivious to your actions?


    And you dare to lie to me, so is this your idea of trust? Should I trust you?" I stepped forward, "ra, I


    really underestimated you. Do you know your actions are even more devious than Zora''s?" I was


    gritting my teeth as I said this, realizing ra was a nuisance.


    "No, Ms. Aaliyah. I really didn''t know the medicine she gave me was for you." ra tried to justify


    herself and reached out to grab my hand.


    Hannah snorted, "Remove your hand."


    Forced to let go of my hand, ra continued to plead her case, "I''m telling the truth, and I didn''t mean


    to harm you, Ms. Aaliyah. You''re the kindest, most trustworthy, and reliable person in my heart."


    I gave a cold, sarcasticugh, as though listening to a joke.


    "When she gave me the medicine, she said to wait for her instructions. I had no idea she wanted to


    harm you. So when thisdy..." she pointed at Hannah, "She signaled me not to mess things up, so I


    switched the drinks and made her drink it herself."


    "And if she hadn''t signaled you?" I asked, seizing the opportunity.


    "Then I wouldn''t have given it to you either." She imed sincerely.


    I gave a cold humph. I didn''t believe her at all.


    "You say you don''t know Renata, yet you followed her instructions. Do you think your exnation is


    convincing?" I challenged, "Do you take me for a fool to believe your words?"


    "Ms. Aaliyah, I really didn''t lie. I was puzzled when she came to find me." ra whispered.


    "ra, you know if you''re lying or not, and I''ll find out too, depending on whether I want to investigate.


    If I find out you''re lying, ra, think about what will happen to you." I warned, my tone icy.


    Her face stiffened, seeming a bit shaken.


    I was certain she was still hiding something from me.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Do you think the issue with Renata is over? Don''t be delusional. Disrupting Goldenvale Town''s


    international trade g, such an important event isn''t the same as a private party hosted by Medsafe


    Liyah Inc. She won''t get off the hook this time, and do you think you can escape responsibility?"


    My words were like a boulder bearing down on her, her face growing paler by the second.


    Then I added, "Now tell me, who do you think took Evan? Don''t tell me you have no idea."


    ra looked at me, visibly lessposed, and stuttered, "I truly don''t know, but I''ve lost something."

 Chapter 277

    Chapter 277


    My heart skipped a beat. She was definitely hiding something. I pushed her further, "What is it?"


    She looked up at me, her eyes filled with helplessness, almost as if she was struggling to find the


    words.


    I pressed her harder, "Spit it out."


    Finally, she seemed to make up her mind and said, "It''s the DNA report from Zora, the one I


    intercepted."


    I stood there, a little confused. The report from Zora that she intercepted?


    "You mean the one that proved they weren''t father and son?" I asked her, needing confirmation.


    "Yes, that''s the one. It was in my bag, and I hadn''t had a chance to deal with it yet." ra admitted,


    clearly frustrated.


    I tried to piece together what she was saying and asked, "When did you lose the report?"


    ra shook her head, "I''m not sure, but I noticed it was gone when I realized Evan was missing."


    "Did youe into contact with any strangers during that time?" I asked.


    She shook her head again, "No, I was either at home or at work. During the cocktail party, my bag was


    locked in the office locker room. It shouldn''t have gone missing."


    I studied her, and she didn''t seem to be lying.


    I took a moment to think, then grabbed my purse and told Hannah, "Let''s go!"


    ra looked rmed, "Where are you going, Ms. Aaliyah?"


    I ignored her question, thinking to myself, "That''s none of your business."


    Once we left the cafe, Hannah asked, "Where are we headed, Ms. Aaliyah?"


    I stood at the entrance, watching the bustling traffic, thinking to myself, "I need to see Zora."


    My intuition was telling me that this had something to do with Zora.


    I told Hannah, "We''re going to see Zora."


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Are you sure you''re feeling up to it? Maybe we should..." Hannah asked, clearly concerned.


    Before she could finish her sentence, my phone rang. It was a call from Ronan.


    I nced at Hannah, her expression was calm, not like she''d reported anything to Ronan. So, I was


    being tracked again, and quite efficiently at that.


    I answered the call and Ronan''s worried voice came through, "Where are you? Why aren''t you at the


    hospital?"


    "Aren''t you asking for confirmation?" I countered.


    He chuckled, "Do you forget you''re ill?"


    I quickly told him about ra''s visit and ryed the entire conversation to Ronan.


    After listening to me, he advised, "Let the police handle this, and you need to rest."


    I agreed reluctantly, "I''ll be back soon."


    But as soon as I ended the call, I told Hannah, "We''re still going to see Zora."


    Hannah seemed surprised, "But Mr. Richardson asked you to rest."


    I brushed it off, "I''ll rest after dealing with this. Can''t have this trip be for nothing."


    Hannah sighed and followed me.


    "I have a strong feeling that this has something to do with Zora. Regardless of what the police find, I


    need to see Zora."


    I got into the car and continued, "The police will handle their business, and I''ll handle mine. Zora has


    been getting toofortabletely, living in my house, causing me trouble. It''s high time I visited her."


    Hearing this, Hannah didn''t argue. She stepped on the gas and we headed straight for Zora''s ce.


    I had no idea when Jan acquired this property, and it must''ve been after I fell ill. But thanks to ra,


    I knew the address and the fact that Jan was indeed the owner.


    I have to admit Jan was quite the miser. This alone proved that he had never been sincere to


    anyone, not even Marissa who died. They all thought they were winners, but in the end, it was all for


    naught.


    Not only did they lose their wealth, but they would lose their lives.


    And it seemed that Zora, still blinded by her ambition, was walking further and further down the path of


    self-destruction.

 Chapter 278

    Chapter 278


    I found it amusing thinking about Zora''s argument with ra. She had imed this house as her own. I


    was here today to see whose home it was.


    Arriving there, I asked Hannah to knock on the door while I stood in a spot where the peephole couldn''t


    reach.


    Zora''s expression was priceless when she opened the door and saw me. She was utterly


    bbergasted, blurting out, "How could it be you?"


    I smiled, lifting my foot to step in, but she immediately blocked my way. She said in an unpleasant tone,


    "You''re not wee here."


    I nearlyughed out loud, suppressing my amusement as I looked at her, "Living in my house and


    daring to say I''m not wee? Who gave you such courage?"


    Just as Zora was about to retort, Hannah abruptly pulled her aside, clearing a path for me to enter. I


    walked in without hesitation.


    The house itself was genuinely impressive, spacious, well-lit, and tastefully decorated.


    I sighed inwardly. What a waste.


    I made my way to the living room and took the prime seat on the couch. Zora, seeing me casually stroll


    in, dashed in after me, her face filled with unease and annoyance, "Aaliyah, I''m no longer your


    housekeeper. What are you doing here?"


    I satfortably, smiling, "So, you realize you''re no longer my housekeeper, yet you still live in my


    house. Don''t you think that''s a bit much? Don''t you know why I''m here?"


    "Aaliyah, you''ve gone too far. This house is mine, fair and square. Jan promised it to me, and he


    said this house was meant for me." She crossed her arms, speaking with conviction.


    "On what grounds?" I leaned back on the couch, my tone calm.


    She was about to speak but abruptly stopped herself.


    "On what grounds? Because you seduced Jan while you were the housekeeper? Because you


    drugged me? Because you spread malicious rumors to my children about me, saying that my corpse


    would eat them? Or because you pierced my head?" I grilled her relentlessly, yet my demeanor


    remained light.


    As I listed her misdeeds one by one, her face grew paler but she still held her defiant stance.


    "What are you implying? We don''t have any rtionship now. The past is in the past. Stop digging up


    old skeletons. If you''re here just to throw usations, there''s no need toe to my house and strut


    around."


    I didn''t waste time with her, cutting straight to the chase, "Since I''m here, I obviously have something to


    discuss. Tell me, where is Evan?"


    Upon hearing Evan''s name, she immediately lost her cool, "What Evan? How should I know? Stop


    dragging me into your mess. I have nothing to do with your problems."


    "Are you sure about that?" I looked at her impassively, "Think carefully before you answer."


    She seemed calm, looking at me with a sadistic glee, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "What''s there to


    think about? It seems like you''re the one who needs to think. The whole town isn''t cursing me, and the


    police aren''t looking for me. You''re here to question me? How amusing! And what business is it of


    yours? Are you ying the saint now?"


    She wore an irritating grin,ughing mockingly, "Looks like you''ve got a thing for taking in children. Are


    you nning on adopting every illegitimate child out there?"


    After finishing her sentence, sheughed loudly.


    Hannah, who had probably been holding back her frustration, suddenly stepped forward and with a


    swift p, silenced Zora''sughter. The room fell quiet.


    Zora lookedpletely bewildered as if she couldn''tprehend what had just happened. Her mouth


    hung open, her eyes wide in shock as she stared at Hannah.


    It took her a moment to regain herposure, "You dare hit me? Who the hell do you think you are?


    You dare hit me?" She quickly became hysterical, screaming, "Aaliyah, you..."


    Another sharp p from Hannah cut her off mid-sentence.


    Hannah coolly brushed her hand, "If you keep shouting, I don''t mind giving you a few more."


    Zora was seething, her eyes bloodshot, her jaw clenched, but she didn''t dare speak again.


    I then asked again, "Tell me, where''s Evan?"


    She stared at me with a look of pure hatred as if she wanted to tear me apart.


    I stared back at her, "How do you know Evan is Jan''s?"


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "He''s Jan''s and Marissa''s child. Don''t y dumb with me." Zora''s firm reply confirmed my


    suspicions. I was getting closer to the truth.

 Chapter 279

    Chapter 279


    "How can you prove he''s Jan''s child, Zora? Am I supposed to believe you just because you say so?


    You''re quite adept at stirring up trouble, aren''t you?" I purposely baited her.


    Zora shed a wicked grin at me, "He''s Jan''s. So, Aaliyah, why are you proud? Do you think you''ve


    secured your position as Jan''s wife? Sadly, he¡¯s not given you a chance. You''re nothing more than a


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh really? How would Jan react if he heard you talking like this about me? Didn¡¯t he warn you not


    to provoke me?" Iughed and asked, catching her off guard.


    She was pretty much surprised to see me with that look. She was probably used to women losing their


    cool when confronted with such usations. But my calm demeanor seemed to take her by surprise.


    "You know Marissa too, don''t you?" I teased, ¡°But you two are really a match. One is a professional


    slut, the other a professional homewrecker.¡±


    Zora took a step towards me, but a single raised eyebrow from Hannah sent her retreating.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid Jan will skin you alive for such usations?¡± Iughed lightheartedly, ¡°There are


    plenty of women iming to have Jan¡¯s child, and all of them are stunning. You, on the other hand,


    are a nanny. Quite an achievement, isn''t it?¡±


    ¡°Aaliyah, you should reflect on your own actions.¡± She was afraid of being seen as a nanny.


    ¡°Just you wait.¡± She stormed into the room like a whirlwind, quickly returning with a piece of paper in


    her hand. She waved it in front of my face, ¡°Here¡¯s the proof.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bring me some phony evidence.¡± I didn¡¯t even nce at it, maintaining a haughty expression as I


    stared at her, as though she were a fool.


    She stood there with the piece of paper in her hand, clearly taken aback.


    I decided to add fuel to the fire, ¡°Do you even know which one is real and which one is fake?¡±


    This caught herpletely off guard. She mumbled, ¡°How do you know?¡±


    ¡°Now, tell me, where is Evan?¡± This time, my tone was icy, ¡°Zora, what goes aroundes around. Do


    you think you can erase everything you¡¯ve done? ying dirty? You really have no shame. Hannah,


    call the police.¡±


    Hannah understood immediately and reached for her phone. But before she could dial, Zora swung her


    hand down in an attempt to knock the phone out of Hannah''s hand.


    However, instead of knocking the phone away, she ended up flying across the room and crashing into a


    coffee table, grunting in pain.


    Perhaps it was the force of her fall, but shey there for a while, unable to get up.


    I remained seated on the sofa, looking down at the pitiful Zora, ¡°Do you really think I don¡¯t know how


    you seduced Jan, how you poisoned me, how you stabbed me with needles, and what you hid in


    your perfume bottle?¡±


    Zora, who was struggling to get up, froze when she heard my words. Shey on the floor, propped up


    on her arms, her eyes wide with terror.


    ¡°All these pieces of evidence have been gathered and are ready to be handed over. All the proof of


    your crimes against me, the medical reports, the drug residues, the video footage, even that perfume


    bottle that doesn''t contain perfume.¡± I spoke slowly, making sure she heard every detail, ¡°And let¡¯s not


    forget about that clever little girl at your former employer¡¯s ce. What happened to her?¡±


    I stared at Zora who was on the verge of a breakdown, each word carefully pronounced, ¡°Tell me, how


    many years do you think you¡¯ll get if all this is given to the police?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense.¡± Zora¡¯s voice was shaking, but she was still defiant.


    I pulled out my phone and handed it to Hannah, ¡°Show her.¡±

 Chapter 280

    Chapter 280


    With a nod, Hannah reached out and took my iPhone, stepping over to Zora. Gracefully, she squatted


    down and shoved the screen in front of Zora''s eyes. Zora nced passively at the screen, then her


    defenses shattered.


    ¡°No, I didn''t do that. You''re wrong.¡± Zora recoiled as if stung by a scorpion, sliding backward on the


    floor, shaking her head like a rattlesnake, and protesting, ¡°Aaliyah, you can''t me everything on me. I


    didn''t do it.¡±


    ¡°Really? Check the next one.¡± Imanded Hannah with a cold voice.


    Hannah elegantly showed a yful look on her face as she watched Zora, ¡°Shall we see the next one?¡±


    Zora shook her head, fear evident in her eyes. Hannah checked to the next image.


    ¡°That wasn''t me. Jan made me do it.¡± Zora finally blurted out.


    ¡°Did he?¡± I calmly turned my gaze to her, ¡°Hannah, call Jan.¡±


    ¡°Sure thing,¡± Hannah replied, standing up and dialing on the touchscreen.


    ¡°Aaliyah, Jan made me do it, indeed. I said the same thing to his face,¡± Zora raised her voice in


    protest.


    Iughed, unfazed by her fury, ¡°Excellent. Let''s have a face-to-face showdown. If you''re not afraid, let''s


    y a shameless game. Let''s see who Jan stands with.¡±


    I stood tall, radiating confidence, ¡°I''m curious to see how much Jan values you, his advisor.¡±


    ¡°Aaliyah, this won''t do you any good. Don''t forget, if he cared about you, he wouldn''t cheat on you. He


    wouldn''t let me harm you. Don''t overestimate yourself. He doesn''t love you, so don''t be so arrogant.¡±


    Zora was nearly hysterical.


    Honestly, her cunning was no match for ra''s.


    I provoked her further, ¡°Zora, you may have forgotten that I have the right to be arrogant. I don''t mind


    showing you how Jan bows to me.¡±


    I gave her a wicked smile, then said to Hannah, ¡°Call him.¡±


    Hannah dialed, then put the call on speaker.


    After a few rings, Jan picked up, his voice filled with affection, ¡°Honey, you''re awake?¡±


    I didn''t respond, instead, I looked at Zora with a satisfied smile.


    ¡°Aaliyah, you''re despicable,¡± Zora grumbled.


    Jan, on the other end of the line, certainly heard. I spoke, my voice full of contempt, ¡°Come over.


    Your mistress'' ce.¡±


    I then motioned for Hannah to hang up.


    Zora struggled to sit up, her beautiful dress torn at the seam, looking rather pitiful.


    I looked at her with distaste and said scornfully, ¡°Jan should at least buy you some decent clothes.


    After all, you''re his ything.¡±


    ¡°As a maid, this is already too much.¡± Hannah spat out disdainfully.


    ¡°You''re wrong. Maids are respectable. They earn their respect through hard work. But those who


    seduce men for material gain, especially those who harm the men¡¯s wives, are another story. We can''t


    generalize,¡± I corrected Hannah.


    Zora red at me in frustration, ¡°Aaliyah, don''t get cocky, you...¡±


    ¡°You should think about how you''re going to exin what you just said to Jan.¡± I cut her off, ¡°Your


    repetitive wordsck impact. Doesn''t matter if you don''t speak. If you want to say something, make it


    useful.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It was Jan who made me do it. Even if the policee, I''ll say the same thing.¡± Zora looked


    determined.


    ¡°Don''t worry, and you''ll have the opportunity to tell the police.¡± I teased her again. ¡°And bring your dear


    Maddox.¡±


    Zora looked terrified, fear evident in her eyes.


    Seeing her nearly wet her pants in fear, I chuckled, continuing to taunt her like ab rat, ¡°Zora, if I


    change the game, will Jan be even more grateful to me?¡±

 Chapter 281

    Chapter 281


    "What on earth are you up to, Aaliyah... What are you up to?" Her lips quivered, and her gaze flickered,


    that I could also be this cunning.


    "Were you not prepared for this when you hurt me? Did you not think about what would happen when I


    woke up, when I started collecting my dues? Don''t worry, today I only invited him over to hear what


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    you''ve been saying." I attempted to soothe her, but I could see that my words had the opposite effect.


    Her eyes constricted, and she wrapped her arms around herself, fidgeting nervously, clearly feeling


    vulnerable.


    I nced at her nonchntly, "Whether he''s behind all this is simply a matter of my word against yours.


    If I say you did it, then you did it. Do you think he''d take the me for you? Or would you take the fall


    for him? ...Either suits me fine! After all, I''m certain Jan will be grateful. We still have to live our


    lives!"


    "Aaliyah, how... how did you find out about all this?" Zora blurted out mindlessly.


    I ignored her, my gaze intense, "Zora, let me be honest with you. I can forgive Jan because he¡¯s the


    father of my child, and I can''t leave my child without a father.


    I can tolerate his mistakes because the cost of divorce is too high. For money, Jan would definitely


    submit to me, and I can keep his social status. But you¡­¡±


    I paused, looking at her as if pondering something. Zora swallowed nervously, perhaps still harboring


    some hope.


    I shook my head, quite resolute, "No! If you hadn''t gone after my child, I wouldn''t have rushed things.


    We''ve lived together for eight years, and I hadn''t nned on wiping you outpletely. I could have


    turned a blind eye and let you live. But you were cruel enough to harm a child, so you can''t me me


    for whates next!"


    In reality, I said all this to give Jan the illusion that I could bear his mistakes for the sake of our child.


    Divorce would be too much hassle, too much loss. This was the harsh truth everyone knew.


    So, the message I was sending him was that I would put up with it.


    Knowing Jan as I did, as long as I could bear his mistakes, he would be safe, in every sense of the


    word.


    He would need to calm my anger and bnce my mood, allowing me to do as I pleased.


    I had to use this time to take back all his little schemes outside, without losing a single penny of my


    wealth!


    For him, the gold mine behind me was his main goal. He wouldn''t mind losing a bit of petty cash.


    This was the real reason I came to Zora''s. I knew she wouldn''t disappoint me, so by doing so, I wanted


    to give Jan a wake-up call and let him understand my ns. And of course, there was another goal -


    to find clues about the child and verify the sisters'' stories.


    I just couldn''t believe that a living person, even a child, could just vanish without a trace. It was


    impossible!


    Something was fishy about all this. I was sure one of the sisters was lying.


    Just then, Jan burst in, familiar with the ce. Although I had called him here, he still looked


    somewhat guilty when he saw me. He twiddled his fingers, walked straight up to me, and said softly,


    "Honey, why aren''t you resting after waking up? Why did youe here?"


    From the moment he walked in, he didn''t even nce at Zora, who was trying hard topose herself.


    Hearing his question, I looked at him, smiled and calmly scanned the room, "I just wanted to take a


    look at the properties you''ve invested in. They''re not bad. But it''s a pity, I won''t keep a ce that''s been


    lived in by a maid! It''s dirty!"

 Chapter 282

    Chapter 282


    When Jan heard me speak, he was taken aback, not daring to retort. But Zora was quite the


    firecracker. Emboldened by Jan''s presence, she stepped forward, challenging me, "What''s the


    business to you?"


    I turned to Jan, grinning yfully, "Why don''t you tell her?"


    "Babe¡­"


    "Hannah, y it back for him," I leaned back into the plush couch, finding afortable position.


    "Listen to the recording. I need a breather!"


    "Sure thing!" Hannah immediately whipped out her phone and ced it on the coffee table.


    Zora hadn''t anticipated Hannah''s recording, which effectively squashed any chance of her wheedling


    out of the situation.


    She lunged forward, trying to stop the yback. But Hannah gave her a swift kick, sending her


    sprawling. If it wasn''t for the dining table, she would have been sent flying.


    Jan''s handsome face twisted with tension, too scared to even utter a word.


    The recording yed clearly, not a word missed. Especially my part, it was truthful and sound, in


    and simple.


    It was as if I was having a heart-to-heart with an old friend, persuading with emotion, convincing with


    logic, each word a piece of my heart.


    The message was crystal clear. A smart guy like Jan would certainly understand why I had been


    keeping my cool. The amount of information in it was staggering, something he probably craved in his


    dreams.


    After the recording finished, I sat up, facing Jan and asking, "So, what promises did you make her?


    And did you instruct her to act this way?"


    I was stirring the pot, pitting them against each other. Since the recording revealed his hidden desires,


    how could he let Zora off the hook?


    Jan''s face changed instantly, "Don''t listen to her nonsense!" He then shot a stern gaze at Zora, his


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    voice bristling with restrained anger. "Zora, I''ve allowed you to stay here temporarily out of gratitude for


    the years you''ve devoted to caring for the kids. But you dare to spread rumors about Allie. I think it''s


    time for you to leave."


    I couldn''t help but apud Jan. He had voiced what I''d been thinking. I didn''t want to be the bad


    guy, but he seemed fine with it.


    Zora, however, was not so calm. In disbelief, she looked at Jan, "Jan, you¡­ you''re kicking me


    out? Have you forgotten about the child¡­"


    Jan roared, "Shut up! Try saying that again!"


    He pointed at Zora, his eyes filled with a chilling fury, "Get out! Now!"


    "Hold on!" I intervened, "I didn''t call you here to kick her out. Why are you in such a hurry?"


    Jan froze, his eyes on Zora were filled with a cold fury I''ve never seen before. But when he turned to


    me, his face melted into a ttering smile, "If you''re not happy with her, kicking her out is the right thing


    to do, why waste words?"


    I shot him a scornful look and turned to Zora, "How did you get the report from ra''s bag?"


    She looked at me, a cunning glint in her eyes. I quickly cut her off, "Don''t even entertain the thought of


    pulling a fast one on me. If I wasn''t certain you took it, I wouldn''t even be here confronting you."


    "How could you¡­ Aaliyah, who are you? How could you possibly know?" Zora looked at me anxiously,


    her face paled.


    Jan, standing on the side, also seemed a bit uneasy.


    I said nonchntly, "How I know is not important, where is Evan?"


    "He¡­ he''s gone, not with me anymore," she said quickly, sneaking a nce at Jan.


    But he didn''t look at her. I had to admire Jan''sposure.


    "How did he go missing?" I knew the answer but asked to see if her story matched ra''s.


    Zora''s ount was indeed simr to ra''s, except she didn''t admit that she handed the child over to


    Maddox. Instead, she said Maddox told her the child was missing!


    "Who did you give ra''s report to?" I locked my gaze on Zora, pressing her for an answer.


    Jan also looked at her, a hint of suspicion in his eyes.


    "I¡­ I didn''t give it to anyone!" Zora finally slipped up. It seemed that she did take ra''s report and


    had handed it out.


    "Hand it over!" I extended my hand towards her, blocking her escape.


    "I told you I didn''t take it!" Zora persisted, adamantly denying it.


    "Fine!" I withdrew my hand and turned to Jan, "So you''re in cahoots with her!" Iughed coldly, a


    fierce glint in my eyes.


    "Hannah! Call the police!"

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    Chapter 283


    The moment my words tumbled out, Jan was quick to step forward and grasp my arm. "Babe, calm


    down!"


    "Don''t I seem calm enough?" I shot back, staring him down.


    He was well aware of his own missteps. He knew exactly what he had done.


    Calling the cops, to Jan, was akin to destruction.


    Sure enough, my words had him rattled. He was doing his best to show his gentle side, attempting to


    reason with me. "Allie, I understand you''re angry. But, can you let me say something first?"


    "If you''re going to try and make excuses for her, don''t bother,¡± I retorted without hesitation.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But I knew him too well. Jan wouldn¡¯t be caught dead defending Zora right now.


    I was certain of it. Jan had no feelings for Zora. He, as well as the Dawsons, looked down on people


    like her. The Dawsons saw their past selves in Zora, and it was something they couldn''t bear to face.


    "Babe, just give me one chance to speak," Jan pleaded, showing a rare understanding of the


    situation.


    I looked at him without saying a word. He quickly continued, "Allie, we can''t call the police! The fallout


    would be huge. You know the rumors about our kids and that woman are still all over the inte. If you


    involve the police now, it''ll cause a massive scandal. It''s not going to be good for our business!" I


    scoffed, "Now you''re worried about the consequences? How do you think we got here? Don''t you


    know?"


    Jan was left speechless by my words, but he knew when to back down.


    Just like now. The moment he heard me, he admitted to all his wrongdoings.


    "Sweetheart, I was wrong! I was blind. I never thought you''d be so forgiving, willing to give me another


    chance for the sake of our children. I swear to you, I won''t let you down again!"


    I was disgusted. He had absolutely no sense of shame!


    "But don''t listen to her lies. The only reason I touched her was because I was feeling weak. You were


    sick and bedridden, and all I saw when I came home was her. She took care of me, provided a warm


    home, and that''s why I fell for her trap." He pointed at Zora, cing the me on her. "She nned


    this. You know how she seduced her previous employer. She has a history. I didn''t like her from the


    start."


    "Are you saying this is my fault?" I shot back coldly.


    "No, that''s not what I meant. She had ulterior motives."


    "Jan..." Zora whimpered his name.


    "Shut up!" Jan snapped at her, showing no regard for her feelings.


    "You can ask her if she seduced me first. She spiked my drink that night. That''s the only reason I would


    have touched a maid." Jan revealed a truth I had misunderstood. But I believed him. It was exactly


    something he would do.


    "And you couldn''t stop?" I mocked. "Kicking her out and throwing money at her is more your style!"


    Both Jan and Zora froze at my words. I continued, "Tell me, what dirty little secret did she have that


    made you hesitate?"


    I was merely specting, but as it turned out, it revealed a secret that shook me, nearly leading to my


    demise. But that''s a story for another time.


    "There''s nothing..."


    "Yes, there''s..."


    Their responses shed.


    "Zora!" Jan roared, ring at her with such intensity. His voice wasced with an icy menace as he


    spat out a chilling threat, "You''re done for!"

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    Chapter 284


    Zora was on the verge of a meltdown. "Jan! You... you made promises to me! Are you afraid to tell


    her that? Well, then, I will..."


    Without waiting for Zora to finish, Jan spun around, his hand sping around her neck like a vise.


    His hawk-like gaze met hers head-on.


    I smirked, "See, Zora? Now you can see who stands shoulder to shoulder and who''s face to face."


    Even with her air supply cut off, Zora still managed to squeeze out a jab at me. "Aaliyah, I never knew


    you were so patient. You''re not the only girl he''s cheated on, and you know it. He and Marissa are


    shacking up together..."


    "Zora, if you value your life, you''ll shut up!" Jan''s grip tightened around her neck, and Zora''s face


    turned red. Her hands were wing at his, trying to pry his fingers off.


    Her breathing becamebored, her eyes bulged, and a tear streaked down her face, slipping off


    Jan''s hand.


    "Jan... you''ll regret this... This woman... she''s no good. I''m... I''m the only one who truly loves you."


    Her words were the punch line to the most hrious joke I''d ever heard. I watched the scene unfold


    before me, calmly waiting to see how this life-or-death drama would y out.


    Zora''s struggles were weakening, her eyes filled with terror and sorrow. But Jan showed no signs of


    letting go.


    "Jan, if you end up killing her, it''s going to be way more explosive than a simple police call," I


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    so pitiful."


    At my words, Jan suddenly released his grip. Like a puppet whose strings had been cut, Zora


    copsed onto the floor.


    The room fell silent for a moment, then was filled with the sound of Zora''s violent coughing and gasping


    for breath. She writhed on the floor, as if she couldn''t get enough air.


    Once she''d caught her breath, I nodded at Hannah. "Let him see just how much she ''loves'' him."


    Without a word, Hannah picked up my phone and yed a video. The screen filled with a scene of


    Zora and Maddox in sex- it was so explicit it could put a blush on people¡¯s face.


    Zora was dumbstruck, her eyes wide as saucers.


    Jan, devoid of any semnce of chivalry, swung his leg and kicked Zora.


    As Zora rolled on the ground, I felt no pity for her. She deserved what she got. I turned to Jan with a


    breezy smile, "These are the women you''ve cheated with, even someone like her managed to make a


    fool out of you. How pathetic."


    I examined my nails nonchntly, "Either sleeping with your brother or any other man, all of them are


    asmon as a whore. Oh... I heard Renata calling out... Jerome at the cocktail party."


    I smirked, "Don''t tell me your brother slept with your woman again?"


    Hannah couldn''t contain herughter, but she quickly masked it with a straight face.


    I turned to Zora, "You know, I am more aware of how many women he''s been with than you are. You''re


    just a nanny he keeps at home, while those outside are showing off their beauty andpeting for his


    attention."


    Enraged, Zora lunged at Jan.


    Perhaps Jan had had enough, or maybe he wanted to vent his anger. Hended a punch on Zora


    before she could reach him. The sound of the impact made me wince!

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    Chapter 285


    I scoffed, "Not call the police? Jan, do you think I can forgive you once again?"


    To my surprise, with a ''thud'', Jan had dropped to his knees in front of me.


    "Darling, I messed up!"


    Staring at his pitiful state, I sternly asked, "And where exactly did you go wrong?"


    "I shouldn''t have been messing around behind your back. I shouldn''t have gotten involved with Zora,


    allowing her to get bold enough to harm you. I shouldn''t have been so careless to let Marissa meddle in


    thepany''s affairs. I shouldn''t have...."


    I leaned back on the couch, eyes closed in bitter resentment, my nose stinging with the sourness of


    tears.


    Each of his ''shouldn''t haves'' were my grievances against him. He really did understand himself; he was


    certainly insightful. In the end, he defended himself, "But I swear, there was nothing between me and


    Renata. You have to believe me, I was also a victim. Marissa seduced my brother, and they both cut


    me out to take over thepany."


    "You finally realize you were cut out?" I was beyond frustrated.


    "I was naive, only excited about having my ownpany. It was only after they took over Addrion, I


    realized, I was being manipted by my own brother."


    I had no doubt Jan was telling the truth.


    "And, honey, Marissa''s child is not mine." Jan looked up at me, crawling a few steps closer as if


    holding a trump card.


    "But that doesn''t mean you can collude with her against that child! He''s just a kid Even if he''s not your


    son, he''s still a Dawson. That makes you his uncle! How could you harm him?" I roared, "Tell me,


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    where is that child?"


    "Honey, calm down, think of your health!"


    "Shut up, and stop with the sweet talk!" I shouted.


    "I admit, I did have Zora take the child, but the situation wasplicated. I was afraid you''d be upset if


    you knew about the child and wouldn''t forgive me. And I was also focused on securing the overseas


    deal."


    "So, Zora came up with this rotten idea. Get the child out and divert the online nder and attention, so


    I could focus on the overseas deal. Then we do a DNA test to prove the child isn''t mine!"


    Jan''s confession matched ra''s ount.


    "Are you brainless?" I pped the armrest of the couch, rebuking him angrily, "She''s really been a


    great advisor! You''re aplete fool!"


    Jan looked helpless. "I just wanted to have him stay with Zora for a while, then bring him back once


    the situation calmed down and the overseas deal was signed. But who would''ve known... those inte


    trolls wouldn''t let it go. So I didn''t dare to bring the child back."


    Zora stood there, clutching her chest, watching Jan on his knees, her expression unreadable.


    "I nned to bring him back after our victory party, but then this bitch told me the child was missing."


    "You''re lying. You probably never intended to bring him back, did you? You''re afraid of the police!" I saw


    right through him, "The child has be a mystery. Everyone, including the police, is watching. You''re


    afraid he''ll lead them to you!"


    "It really has nothing to do with me!" Jan stubbornly argued.


    I was about to explode. "You dare to say it has nothing to do with you? Who was it that took him


    away?"


    Jan was at a loss for words.


    "This child is missing now, and there''s no knowing if he''s even alive. Don''t you feel a prickling of guilt?"


    I leaned over to look at Jan, "I''ve inexplicably be a suspect because of this child, and she?


    She''s casually throwing around usations, iming I''m fond of taking in your illegitimate child.


    Shouldn''t I call the police?"

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    Chapter 286


    Jan pleaded with me, his eyes full of desperation. "But, babe, if you really call the cops, I''m done for!


    Our family will crumble, our kids will be the talk of the town, and our business will be under


    someone else''s control! My brother has been waiting for this to happen and I can''t just hand over our


    business to him. Honey, I made a huge mistake, I messed up big time!"


    I suddenly raised my hand and pped him hard across the face.


    "You should have thought about the consequences! I trusted you, supported you, and even praised you


    to others, giving you opportunities to rise to prominence. And what did you do? Not only did you cheat


    on me, but you also drugged me with the help of a nanny!"


    "Honey, that drug was provided by Jerome, he...he said it was just a kind of sedative that would help


    you to rest..."


    I gave him another p, "What a great husband you are, you just listen to anyone, even when they are


    harming your wife, right? What about all those promises of love? You pursued me relentlessly, always


    blinded by love, believing your lies!"


    "Honey, that''s not fair! I really do love you. From the first time you came into the salon and I did your


    hair, I fell for you. I..."


    "Shut up!" I kicked him, "Tell me, why did Jerome want you to drug me?"


    "I...I didn''t think too much about it at the time. After all, he''s my older brother and seemed to be


    genuinely caring about me, saying the drug was soothing, but not to use too much, just a drop each


    time, saying health issues can be healed with rest. So I let her..."


    He pointed at Zora, "I told her to add just one drop each time she made your tea, to help you rest and


    recover!"


    "I ended up being a walking corpse in her eyes!" Iughed in anger.


    He sure could talk his way out of anything, treating me like a fool! Now he was pushing the me onto


    Jerome, like a weasel!


    So, he''s iming he''s an innocent victim, with no responsibility at all. But I didn''t have the energy to


    spar with him verbally. I decided to let him talk his silver-tongued way out of it, this time.


    "Babe, everything I''ve said is true, I didn''t lie, I really didn''t know that the drug could harm you. And I


    certainly didn''t know that this witch would secretly harm you!"


    Seeing his earnest expression, I was about to explode with anger. I really wanted to ask about those


    insurance policies. But I reminded myself, it''s not the time yet.


    "Why does Jerome want to do this to me? What''s his motive?" I stared at Jan and pressed him for


    answers. Although I couldn''t fully trust his words, I wanted to hear his exnation.


    "He..." He hesitated.


    I immediately followed up, "Are you still trying to deceive me?"


    "No...I''m not sure." Jan paused, and continued, "He seems to be part of some organization. Jerome


    has always been ambitious, and seeing my sess with your support, bing the boss of a big


    I listened quietly, and indeed, Jan''s assessment wasn''t wrong. He knew the Dawsons well.


    Jan added with a sneer, "He dreams of bing the leader of that organization, only then can he


    be the revered figure in the eyes of the Dawson family, and everyone else."


    This was indeed Jerome''s mentality; he always wanted to dominate the top position, even within the


    Dawson family.


    As I was pondering Jan''s words, he continued, "But running that organization is like bleeding money,


    so he always wanted to drag me along, saying that united we stand, divided we fall. Once sessful, it


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    would be the Dawson family''s world, and...and we wouldn''t have to live in your overbearing shadow,


    being trampled under your high and mighty demeanor!"


    I scoffed at his words and asked indifferently, "Your older brother had the right idea, so why didn''t you


    go along with it?"


    "Honey, I realize my mistake, I knew it wasn''t the right path. I''m not that stupid. Why would I give up


    being the CEO of Medsafe Liyah Inc. to join in his nonsense?" Jan looked remorseful, his words


    sounding so sincere, "Now I see things more clearly. He dares to seduce my woman, there''s nothing he


    wouldn''t do."


    "Huh...you''re something else, your woman?. You sure have a lot of women!" I sneered dismissively.

 Chapter 287

    Chapter 287


    Jan quickly sought to reassure me, "Don''t be mad. Marissa is gone. I''m not going to mess up like


    before."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I pointed arrogantly at Zora and asked him, "And what about her?"


    Without hesitation, Jan said firmly, "I''ll make her leave,pletely out of your sight!"


    I sneered inwardly, ¡°Leave? Don''t even think about it, my revenge hasn''t been served yet! She cannot


    go anywhere, and especially not out of my sight.¡±


    I didn''t rush to make a statement. Instead, I asked, "Do you know much about the organization your


    brother is involved in?"


    "That organi..." Jan cut himself off abruptly, ncing at me before changing his tune, "I don¡¯t know


    much about it. He never tells me about it, only that it always requires money!"


    I saw through his cunning, but didn''t expose him.


    "So, you''ve be his bank, then?" I sneered coldly. "I can''t believe my beloved Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    has be the Dawson family''s piggy bank! You take what you want without any regard. My initial


    intention for Medsafe Liyah Inc. was not only to realize my own value but also to improve the quality of


    life for my family, including the Dawsons. How did I be the one who trample you in a high and


    mighty demeanor as you imed? So, I am expected to bow down like Cami, while you spend my


    money?¡±


    Mentioning Cami reminded me of Fidelia''s situation.


    "Darling, don''t think about unpleasant things!" Jan crawled over to me, took my hand and looked at


    me with affectionate eyes, in a way that was truly revolting.


    Iposed myself, eager to end the current difort and no longer share a room with him. "If you''re


    so determined to make amends, let me see your sincerity!"


    Zora''s face turned pale in an instant. She looked at Jan incredulously, her lips twitching, "What...


    what do you want?"


    Jan turned to her, his eyes filled with menace. "What do you think? Will you leave on your own, or


    should I force you? Zora, know your ce. You don¡¯t stand a chance!"


    I watched the scene unfold with a cold heart. This man was truly ruthless! In the face of interests, he


    was always clear-headed.


    Zora''s eyes were filled with malice, but she turned to me and smiled. Her smile didn''t reach her eyes as


    she said ominously, "Aaliyah, don¡¯t get toofortable. I''ll make sure you never have it easy in


    lifetime!¡±


    Without any hesitation, she turned around and left, showing a surprising amount of grace.


    As I pondered her words, I had to admit that they were harsh.


    But what could possibly make me never have it easy in lifetime? Her words were indeed ruthless!


    As Zora disappeared from our sight, Jan finally breathed a sigh of relief. He turned to me, his face


    full of concern, "Darling, let''s go home. You''re still recovering, you must be tired after being out so


    long."


    He knelt before me, his handsome face full of concern. But in my eyes, his face was as revolting as a


    pile of manure.


    I said indifferently, "Now that everything has been said, you should know what I''m thinking, Jan. Just


    because I don''t say it doesn''t mean I don''t know it. You better be careful. You should know what to do


    next. I don''t want to waste my breath.


    As for the people and things outside, you handle them. Don¡¯t let there be any more drama that makes


    us theughing stock and sets a bad example for our children. As parents, it''s our duty to ensure they


    grow up happily. Don''t let their start in life be affected because of us."


    Speaking of this, I suddenlyughed. Of course, my children wouldn''t lose at the starting line. They had


    already started their journey, and they had the best and most clear-headed grandparents in the world.


    All this talk was merely to put Jan at ease for a moment. The real reckoning was toe next. I


    couldn''t alert him this soon! So I continued, "Forgiving you doesn¡¯t mean I still love you. I''m doing this


    for our three children. You''ve truly disappointed me! I also have self-respect, and you''ve truly pped


    my face!"


    "Darling, I''ll cherish this chance to make things right. Trust me. I won''t disappoint you this time. Give


    me another chance to love you properly!" His tone was gentle and he was kneeling, which was quite


    touching. Anyone who didn''t know the truth would be envious!


    I looked at him briefly, said nothing, turned to Hannah and instructed her, "Can you help me list this


    ce and the suite where Marissa used to live? Sell them off! I don''t want them weighing on my heart!


    Let''s go back to the hospital!"

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    Chapter 288


    Jan broke into a radiant smile, "Alright, let''s head back to the hospital! I''ll apany you."


    As I stood up, a wave of dizziness hit me, probably from standing up too quickly. Jan was quick to


    catch me, concern filling his eyes as he suggested, "You''re feeling dizzy, aren''t you? You''ve been


    sitting for too long. How about you lie down and rest a bit before we head back?"


    His gaze was filled with concern, his tone incredibly tender.


    I slowly opened my eyes, turned to look at him, and said firmly, "We''re going back to the hospital. I


    can''t stand the filth here.."


    His face twitched slightly at my words, but I chose to ignore his reaction.


    Turning around, I headed for the exit with Jan following closely behind, like a faithfulpanion,


    taking care to protect me.


    In the car, I didn''t feel like speaking to him, choosing to remain quiet, my eyes shut as I leaned back


    into the seat. I was contemting the strange encounter with the two sisters, something about it didn''t


    feel right. Zora didn''t know where the child was, and that was iprehensible.


    Since ra''s report was taken by Zora, it was crucial to know where the report was now. But who


    could she have given this report to?


    Suddenly, an image of Jerome shed in my mind. His gloomy face and sinister eyes stared back at


    me, and it sent chills down my spine. I gasped and opened my eyes.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Jan, who was seated next to me, immediately put his arm around me, asking with concern, "Are you


    okay? Are you feeling unwell?"


    I let out a breath, leaning back into my seat and murmured, "Just had a dream."


    "You see, I told you, you''re just tired. You fell asleep so quickly. You really need to rest more," he


    chattered away like a buzzing bee, it was extremely annoying.


    I opened my eyes again, shot him a nce, and said, "When we get back to the hospital, you should


    get a check-up too. I still don''t know what caused the sudden fever you hadst time. You need to take


    care of yourself too."


    At my words, Jan was left speechless, his smile stuck on his face as he replied, "Thanks, dear. I''m


    fine now. You don''t need to worry."


    Hearing his response, I closed my eyes again and continued my rest. This time, he finally stopped


    talking.


    Back in the hospital room, I was genuinely tired so Iid down on the bed and was soon lost in slumber.


    Before I drifted off, I told Jan, "You don''t need to stay here. I''m going to sleep. You should go and


    handle whatever you need to. You know what I''m talking about, right?"


    Jan immediately agreed, "Alright, sleep well. Once you''re asleep, I''ll go."


    I thought to myself, with Hannah around, he wouldn''t dare do anything to me. I turned over and fell


    asleep almost instantly.


    I slept for almost eight hours, and by the time I woke up, it was alreadyte at night.


    Hannah had prepared a bountiful dinner for me. She handed me a towel to wipe my hands and then


    adjusted the bed so I could sit upfortably. As sheid out the food, she said, "Jan left after you


    fell asleep. He told me to call him once you woke up."


    "I forgot to tell you, have someone tail him. See what he''s up to," I said to Hannah, epting the spoon


    she handed me.


    Hannah gave a mischievous smile, "Don''t worry, miss. I''ve already arranged it."


    I was delighted by her quick action and remarked, "Impressive! Keep it up. I need to know his every


    move. Everything from now on is critical. We can''t overlook anything he does."


    Hannah raised an eyebrow, "Don''t worry! Have some food!"


    Her smile was incredibly infectious, and her little tiger teeth were quite charming.


    I took a bite of the food and didn''t hide my praise, "This is delicious. I was starving!"


    "I knew you''d be hungry. Here, have some chicken soup," she said, pushing a bowl of soup towards


    me. "Mr. Richardson sent this over."


    I was taken aback. Ronan sure was considerate. Without any hesitation, I took a sip of the soup. It was


    fragrant and smooth.


    "I haven''t asked you yet, but are you part of Bet Richardson''s staff?" I asked Hannah, setting down


    the soup bowl. This was the first time I had asked her this question.

 Chapter 289

    Chapter 289


    My question seemed to catch Hannah off guard as she turned to me, asking in return, "You didn''t


    know?"


    "Hmm!" I nodded, "I don''t remember asking. You said you were here because of my parents''


    arrangement, I assumed it was Bet''s doing. I trust him, so naturally, I trust you! No need for further


    questions."


    Hannah chuckled mischievously, "And now you''re asking?"


    "By curiosity!" I didn''t hide my thoughts, "With such impressive skills, you can''t be just an ordinary


    person! How would my parents know someone like you?"


    "Yes, I work for Mr. Richardson!" Hannah replied confidently, "For 8 years!"


    "Oh wow!" I eximed, thinking to myself, I''ve been away from Ronan for twelve years, but this girl has


    been working for him for 8 years. Somehow, it felt odd that during the years I lost, she had always been


    there.


    "That long?" Imented, a littlete on the uptake.


    "Yes, I was assigned to him right after my special training ended!" She disclosed my curiosity without


    any hesitation, and it sounded so grand.


    Just the term ''special training'' sounded cool, especiallying from a woman like her.


    "Working in hispany?" I was genuinely surprised, looking at her enviously, "May I ask your age


    then?"


    "I turned 26 this year." Hannah answered straightforwardly, without any hint of evasion, "To be precise,


    I follow his orders as a part of his special team, not just thepany!"


    My appetite suddenly faded. This was too enviable, being able to be by his side, knowing all his


    secrets, "You...do you know about him..." I found myself unable to continue, after all, Ronan was a man


    of secrets. I didn''t know if Hannah knew about Bet''s hidden identity.


    Seeming to understand my thoughts, Hannah directly answered the question I was about to ask, "I''m


    his off-the-books team member."


    I asked in confusion, "What does that mean?"


    She pondered a moment, as if thinking about how to answer my question, then smiled and said


    seriously, "That means I am part of his entourage, but my identity is not publicly disclosed."


    I understood at once, looking at her and confirming seriously, "So, ordinary people don''t know you


    exist, but you are under his secretmand, right?"


    She looked at me and nodded in satisfaction, "Smart! That''s exactly it!"


    Something struck me, and I looked at Hannah and asked, "Then you must know, how did he get


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    injured?"


    Hannah''s expression faltered, seemingly surprised by my question.


    I hurriedly said, "You don''t have to answer!"


    Then I pretended to be calm and continued to eat my meal, but I was extremely curious inside,


    anxiously waiting for Hannah''s reaction.


    I guessed this might be a sensitive topic or a special no-go zone for them, with certain secrets involved.


    Otherwise, I remembered when I asked Logan, he simply avoided answering. But I think Logan must


    know the details.


    Sure enough, Hannah pondered for quite a while before looking at me, a hint of difficulty in her eyes.


    I quickly reassured her, "Never mind, pretend I didn''t ask, I...I was just curious."


    Seeing me say this, Hannah seemed a bit embarrassed and quickly exined, "I can''t go into specifics,


    but I know he was injured while saving a friend. He was badly hurt, face even unrecognizable.


    Afterwards, he became as you see him now!"


    Hannah''s exnation was very general, but I was still very satisfied.


    She continued, "Afterwards, the higher-ups had no choice but to y along, giving him a new identity, a


    "Oh..." I listened, shocked, what kind ofrade required him to sacrifice himself so? I didn''t dare to


    ask.


    I knew I couldn''t show too much interest, after all, they have their own rules. Since they keep this


    matter confidential, there must be a reason for it.

 Chapter 290

    Chapter 290


    I quickly changed the subject, turning to Hannah and saying, "Don''t you think that one of these sisters


    is lying today?"


    I asked this with certainty, knowing that Hannah wasn''t just an ordinary soldier. She must be an astute


    warrior, her insight incredibly sharp.


    Otherwise, as she said, they wouldn''t have let her stay by Ronan''s side, acting as a secret aide, whose


    identity information wouldn''t be shared externally.


    Unexpectedly, my heart warmed towards Ronan a little more. He''d dispatched a confidant for my sake.


    This special treatment touched me deeply.


    Without missing a beat, Hannah said, "Zora''s not being truthful. She took the report, which means it''s


    been used by her!"


    Hannah''s thoughts aligned with mine. I chuckled, teasingly saying, "Great minds think alike. That''s


    what I was thinking too, that the child''s disappearance is directly linked to this report!"


    I put down my spoon, my appetite waning at the thought of this matter. I was thinking about how I was


    here, enjoying the fine cuisine, but what about the child? I couldn''t even be sure if he''d had a meal. The


    dream always haunted me, making me restless.


    Seeing my worry, Hannah spoke tofort me, "Miss, don''t stress too much! The police are on it, so


    rest assured. There will be an oue!"


    I took a sip from my water ss, but secretly thought that the police had been investigating for days,


    yet there was still no result. God knows what the child was going through. If it were my child, I swear I''d


    go mad.


    Marissa, the only person who truly cared for him was gone. I sighed involuntarily. People who aren¡¯t


    born with responsible parents can have a rough go of it!


    I looked up to see Hannah studying me intently, and I casually asked, "What''s up?"


    "I was thinking about Marissa," Hannah surprisingly was thinking about Marissa too. It seemed like we


    really were in sync.


    "Miss, if only that child had a decent mother, he wouldn''t have met such a fate!" Hannah''s eyes were


    filled with pity and sorrow.


    I looked at her, "From now on, don''t call me Miss. Call me Aaliyah like everyone else. Miss sounds too


    formal."


    I thought to myself that since Ronan had sent her to protect me, she was like family. Plus, being


    inseparable these past few days, we''d developed an understanding.


    Moreover, I knew the importance Hannah ced on me wasn''t just due to Ronan''s orders, but also a


    mutual fondness that sprung up. Just like my trust in her, she gave me a strange sense of security.


    At my words, Hannah smiled broadly, "Sure thing! From now on, I''ll call you Aaliyah. I would like to treat


    you as a sister, as I only have a brother."


    "You have a brother?" I asked, feeling a tinge of envy, "It''s nice to have siblings!"


    Hannah''s face stiffened momentarily but quickly returned to normal.


    She pushed the food towards me, "Aaliyah, eat up! You''re not eating enough, Mr. Richardson won''t be


    pleased. He specifically got this for you!"


    I smiled at her, teasing, "So if he buys it, I have to stuff myself?"


    Hannah grinned back.


    Though I said this, I obediently continued to eat. But it didn''t taste as good as before!


    I looked at her while eating, "Don''t you think that Zora and that Jerome must be connected somehow?"


    "Jerome has been on our radar for a while now. He''s ruthless!" Hannah said with certainty, proving that


    they''ve been watching him for some time.


    "Why don''t you take care of him then?" I asked, puzzled.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "We don''t know who his big boss is yet, this man is very cautious, we haven''t been able to find out,"


    Hannah seemed to trust me, not hiding the details from me.


    Just then, Hannah''s phone rang. She quickly pulled it out of her pocket, nced at the screen, and


    furrowed her brows. Looking at me, she said, "It¡¯s Jan!"

 Chapter 291

    Chapter 291


    Hannah nced at the screen and said to me, "It''s Jan. He''s probably wondering if you''re up."


    I quickly instructed Hannah, "Just tell him I''m still sleeping!"


    Getting my drift, Hannah picked up the phone and said in a casual tone, "Ms. Aaliyah is still sleeping.


    No need for you toe over. I''ll call you when she''s awake."


    I gave Hannah a thumbs up.


    After hanging up, Hannah turned to me and chuckled, "He was nning oning over but after


    hearing what I said, he decided to head home first and wait for you to wake up."


    "He''d better note at all. Seeing him kills my appetite. I finally managed to eat a decent amount and


    if hees, I''ll probably end up throwing it all up! He''s like an emetic to me!" I said indifferently,


    causing Hannah to burst intoughter.


    I looked at her sincerely and said, "It''s so good to have you around. You brighten up my mood!"


    I couldn''t eat anymore so I pushed the tray away, grabbed a napkin to clean my mouth and said to


    Hannah, "I''m serious. Seeing him makes me feel nauseated, it''s suffocating!"


    Hannah giggled, her smile warm. It was a sight that made you feel happy.


    After eating so much right after waking up, I felt a bit bloated. Looking at the clock, it waste but in the


    hospital, it was still early.


    I suggested to Hannah, "Let''s go and visit Janice."


    Hannah quickly agreed, "Sure! Just give me a moment to clean up and we''ll be on our way!"


    She swiftly cleaned up the trays from the table and brought me my shoes.


    I got out of bed, put on my shoes and we headed towards Janice''s room.


    As we passed the third floor''s lobby, I suddenly remembered Cami.


    I smacked my forehead, realizing I had forgotten something. I quickly took out my phone and dialed


    Cami''s number. I needed to ask her if Fidelia wanted to go to Silverdale City. Otherwise, it would be


    rude not to follow up.


    Regardless of how Jerome was, Cami and I were sisters-inw after all. If I said something, I had to


    keep my word.


    The phone was answered and I realized it might be toote, but before I could decide whether to hang


    up, I heard Cami''s voice on the other end, "Is that you, Aaliyah?"


    I quickly responded, apologizing, "Cami, it''s me! Is it toote? I didn''t check the time!"


    "Hey, it''s notte!" Cami quickly reassured, "You can call anytime!"


    "I just wanted to ask if you talked to Fidelia. Does she want to go to Silverdale City? I might be able to


    go back to Silverdale City in a couple of days! If she wants to go, I''lle and pick her up before I


    leave."


    Cami seemed pleased that I took the initiative to ask about this. Her voice sounded cheerful as she


    responded, "Aaliyah, you''re so thoughtful. I did ask Fidelia when I got back, and she said she wants to


    go!"


    Hearing her response, I inexplicably felt a sense of relief and cheerfully replied, "That''s great! I''ll let you


    know when I''m leaving!"


    Cami quickly agreed, "What should I prepare for her?"


    "What to prepare? Everything''s there, no need to bring anything! Just have her ready to go with me!"


    We bothughed, Cami sounded genuinely happy. It was the first time I had heard herugh so


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    heartily.


    "Thank you so much, as long as her arrival doesn''t bother your parents!" Cami said cautiously.


    "Of course not! Don''t be so formal with me, we''re family!¡± I replied, ¡°that''s settled then. It''s gettingte, I


    won''t keep you. Get some rest!"


    "Aaliyah, thank you!" Cami''s tone was truly sincere.


    "We''re sisters-inw, why are you being so formal?" I said somewhat reproachfully, but I knew she was


    truly happy.


    "Alright, I won''t be formal anymore! You should get some rest too, oh... I almost forgot to ask, how''s


    your healthtely?"


    "I''m fine, don''t worry!"


    After hanging up, Hannahmented, "Cami doesn''t seem too introverted!"


    "It''s a long story!" I sighed.


    When we reached Janice''s room, it was quiet. There was not a single soul in sight.

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    Chapter 292


    I paused for a moment before turning to walk away, saying to Hannah who followed behind, "She must


    have gone to see Jta. Let''s go check on her too!"


    As soon as we entered the hallway leading to Jta''s room, we were stopped by two men. After


    exining who we were, they consulted with the people inside before letting us in.


    Before I even made it to the room, Janice greeted me, her face full of joy, "Aaliyah, what brings you


    here?"


    "I haven''t been here for a while, thought I''d drop by!" I responded, taking her hand. "How is Jta?"


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She hushed me and quickly led me past the nurses'' station.


    Her room had been moved to a private one around the corner of the hallway,pletely isted with


    bodyguards stationed at the entrance. They were taking precautions seriously.


    As we entered, I saw several people giving Jta a massage.


    Relieved, Janice turned to me, shaking her head. "You''re back in the hospital?"


    I said with a smirk, "I''ve made this ce my second home!"


    Myment promptedughter from the group, and Janice sincerely added, "Thank goodness, it was


    a close call. You''ll have good luck in the future!"


    "Give me a break! I''d rather not have this luck than be subjected to this torment," I retorted, causing


    moreughter. "If I die before I enjoy my luck, the Grim Reaper himself will be reluctant to take me!"


    As I spoke, I moved closer to Jta''s bed. Despite her pale face, her eyes were open and she was


    staring at me in surprise.


    I quickly went over to her, asking, "Jta, do you recognize me?"


    At my words, Jta became teary-eyed and emotional.


    "Jta, don''t get worked up!" I called out in rm. "Janice, what''s..."


    Janice rushed to my side and tried to calm Jta. "Jta, take it easy. If you have something to say,


    take your time."


    Jtaposed herself, then looked at me and managed to say, "Aaliyah!"


    Tears sprung to my eyes as I tightly grasped her hand, nodding heavily. "Yes, Jta. It''s me, Aaliyah.


    I came to see you."


    But Jta''s next words broke me.


    "You''ve... lost weight!"


    These words unleashed a flood of emotions, and I couldn''t hold back my tears.


    Through my sobs, I nodded. "Jta, you''re sharp as ever. I have lost weight. Did you know, you have


    lost weight, too. Now you''re the same as me."


    My words were lighthearted, and to my surprise, Jta cracked a smile.


    Janice hugged me, expressing her gratitude. "Aaliyah, I can''t thank you enough. If you hadn''t brought


    Dr. Dailey that day, and stayed with my sister, I don''t know if she would have woken up!"


    I patted Janice''s back,forting her. "It''s fate. It was meant to happen. Don''t cry, you''re still


    recovering."


    Janice nodded and cleaned her tears. "I''ve told Jta everything these past few days. She


    understands. The doctor said her speech and movement are still affected by the ident. But she''ll get


    better."


    I reassured her, "Everything will be alright. The universe is fair. Those who hurt us will face their karma.


    We''re still here, aren''t we?"


    Jta nodded, indicating she understood.


    I squeezed her hand. "You''re doing great, Jta. We believe you''ll recover soon. Janice, Gevena,


    Catherine, and I are all here for you."


    She managed to utter a word, "...sit."


    I nodded and sat by her bed, watching her intently.


    She was thin, but herplexion had improved since Ist saw her. She had a slight blush, indicating


    she was well taken care of.


    I turned to Janice and whispered, "Has Irving visited in the past few days?"

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    Chapter 293


    Janice nodded. "Yeah, he''s been here, but we didn''t let him get close. Baber has guards stationed


    outside, keeping an eye out. He couldn''t get in! And he didn''t dare to force his way in. He knows that


    once Baber is involved, it wouldn''t end well for him if he tried anything."


    "He''s afraid of trouble then!" I sarcasticallymented.


    "It''s not that Baber didn''t care before. I just didn''t want him involved in our family matters!" Janice


    exined, "I didn''t want to burden him! But now¡­"


    I patted her shoulder. "Bad guys need a nemesis! Irving is a sly one. It''s good for him to know that you


    have support! He''s not to be underestimated!"


    "I''m fed up with it all. He checks in here every day, but he has no idea what''s going on inside." Janice


    looked disgruntled.


    "Did Nettiee?"


    "Yes! Like father, like daughter. I just can''t..." Janice sighed. "Thankfully, Dr. Dailey has been very


    responsible. He not only switched our hospital room, but also arranged for specific doctors and nurses.


    This room is now restricted. Only those he approved cane in!"


    I nodded in approval. "That''s good. At least it''s safe for now. When you guys are better, we can move


    you somewhere even safer."


    "How''s your baby these past few days?" I asked Janice.


    Janice sighed, "My baby was born prematurely, so he''s a bit weak. The doctor said he needs to stay in


    the incubator for a while. I visit him every day. He''s so tiny, it''s heartbreaking."


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she said it. A mother''s love was indeed profound.


    To be honest, I had never seen Janice so emotional before.


    "It''s going to be okay! This is already a blessing in disguise!" Iforted her, "Don''t worry, preemies


    are quitemon, and modern medicine is advanced. He''ll get stronger, you''ll see!"


    She sniffled and looked at me. "I hope you''re right. Now, tell me about you. I heard from Geneva that


    you got back all the assets that were mortgaged, even the ones in the joint ount. Is that true?"


    I gave her a satisfied smile, replying, "Yes, everything''s back. Not only that, but I''m also working on


    liquidating Jan''s secret assets. I believe it won''t take long!"


    Janice grabbed my hand and said, "Allie, I really admire you. You''re decisive and ruthless. You do what


    needs to be done. You didn¡¯t give them any opportunity. A quick victory is the key! Otherwise, if they


    had time to regroup, it wouldn''t have been so easy!"


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    "Actually, he lost because of his greed! He was eyeing the mine. He wanted to take it all." I chuckled,


    "But greed is a trap, a deadly temptation! He''s fallen into it now!"


    Hearing my words, Jta, whose hand I was holding, stirred. She gazed at me as I turned to look at


    her. She blinked, clearly wanting to say something.


    "Do you want to say something?" I asked, understanding her cues.


    She nodded vigorously.


    I quickly nced at Janice, then encouraged Jta, "Go ahead, we''re listening!"


    She swallowed, her lips trembling, clearly anxious to speak.


    "Easy now, take your time. We''ll understand!" I stroked her hand, signaling her to rx.


    Janice also moved closer to her. "Jta, take it easy. Speak slowly. We''re listening."


    She stuttered, then finally managed to spit out two words, "Key¡­ Key!"


    "Key!" I repeated, and she nodded. I quickly asked, "Your key, right?"


    She nodded again!


    Janice and I shared a nce, then Janice leaned over to her and asked, "Is the key what you wanted


    to give me all those years ago?"


    She nodded again.


    Janice and I shared a moment of excitement, both asking in unison, "What key?"


    We both turned to Jta. She swallowed again, then looked at Janice, hope in her eyes.


    Janice looked surprised and asked, "You mean, you wanted to give me a key? But after your car


    ident, I didn''t find any key!"


    "Bag!" she said clearly.


    I guessed, "Did you put the key in your bag?"


    Jta nodded vigorously. I turned to Janice, "When you arrived at the car ident scene, did you see


    her bag?"

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    Chapter 294


    Janice shook her head. "No, when I got there, I was so focused on Jta that I just followed the


    ambnce to the hospital."


    At this, I saw Jta close her eyes, looking disappointed.


    Janice, frustrated, shook her head vigorously. Then, suddenly, she said, "Butter, Irving dide and


    ask me if Jta''s stuff was all there. He even asked if she''d called me before the ident, and what


    she had said."


    Both Jta and I listened to Janice''s words.


    "I told him she hadn''t called, and I hadn''t seen any of her stuff!" Janice recalled, "But I never did see


    Jta''s bag! I asked the police handling the caseter, and they said they hadn''t seen any of


    Jta''s belongings either."


    "Was Irving there when you arrived?" I asked Janice.


    "We basically arrived at the same time!" Janice replied, frowning.


    "That means someone else took Jta''s bag!" I voiced my thoughts, and we all felt a chill run down


    our spines.


    Janice turned to Jta, "Sis, are you sure you had your bag with you that day? And that the key was


    in it?"


    Jta nodded, "...Yes."


    "What key?" Janice pressed.


    Jta closed her eyes weakly, letting out a breath, looking slightly defeated.


    "Don''t worry. We''ll find it out!" Janice hurried tofort her.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Jta shook her head, her lips moving, "Evidence... conditions!"


    I watched her closely. Her eyes were filled with resentment. She added, "Negotiated... conditions!"


    I immediately understood her meaning, recalling the conversation I had with Catherine during the


    cocktail party.


    "Do you mean the agreed divorce conditions and evidence of Irving''s infidelity?" I quickly asked


    Jta.


    Jta nodded, relieved.


    Janice asked in confusion, "Allie, what''s going on?"


    I guessed that Gevena didn''t tell her, fearing she would panic. So, I went ahead and exined to


    Janice how Catherine and I got Olivia to spill the beans at the party. Janice seemed to finally


    understand.


    It dawned on us that Jta meant to give the key to Janice for safekeeping before her ident.


    When the ident happened, the key was in her bag. But after the ident, Janice never saw


    Jta''s bag. The bag vanished!


    Janice and I exchanged nces. "It seems that the bag ended up with Irving," I said, shuddering.


    "I''ll ask Barber to look into it again tomorrow. See if any of the officers at the scene remember seeing


    the bag!" Janice said, her voice filled with anger.


    Iforted her, "Don''t worry. Now that Jta is awake, there is no need to rush things. What I mean


    is, once Jta recovers a bit more, she can exin everything herself."


    I turned to Jta and said, "Don''t worry. the bag won''t disappear! If you were able to find it back then,


    others can find it too!"


    Then I said to Janice, "Janice, Logan should have an easier time looking into this than Mr. Forrest.


    Plus, didn''t Logan promise to help you out? He''s a man of his word. There is no use rushing now. You


    both need to focus on getting better!"


    Janice nodded andforted Jta, "Sis, Allie is right. Focus on getting better. We''ll get our stuff


    back. Irving will get what he deserves!"


    Jta nodded, a tear trickling down her cheek.


    We talked for a while longer before someone came in saying they were looking for me.


    I nced at Hannah, who had been by my side the whole time. She turned to leave.


    Janice and I exchanged nces. "Could it be Jan? We can''t let him in!"


    I nodded and said, "Don''t worry. I''m leaving now."


    With that, I gestured to Jta and said, "I''m going now, I''lle see you again soon!"


    As I got up to leave, Hannah returned. "It''s Jan!"

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    Chapter 295


    I exchanged a nce with Janice and let out a sneer, "I''m out of here!" Then I walked out with Hannah.


    At the end of the corridor, I saw Jan standing tall and handsome, wearing a white silk shirt and grey


    trousers with his hands shoved into his pockets, looking cool and aloof.


    This attracted the attention of the nurses at the nurse''s station, who were drooling at his appearance,


    their faces full of infatuation!


    It''s true that good looks can be quite deceiving. With his pretentious demeanor, he was easily able to


    attract these love-struck nurses.


    Seeing me walk out, Jan immediately dropped his cool facade, breaking into a smile as he strode


    over and pulled me into his arms, starting a public disy of affection.


    Instantly, I felt goosebumps all over my body.


    Hannah, standing to one side, pursed her lips and quickly stepped back.


    I knew exactly what he was up to, trying to portray himself as the perfect man.


    I nced at him. As long as he didn''t overdo it, even if I felt nauseous, I had to reassure him, letting


    him believe that I was willing to forgive him. I wanted him to fall hard without seeing iting.


    "Honey, why didn''t you tell me you were awake?" he asked softly, without a hint of me in his voice.


    "Luckily, I decided toe and check on you."


    "I thought you could use some rest!" I replied kindly.


    Hearing my words, he immediately yed up his response, "Being at home alone is too lonesome!"


    As I cursed him silently, I thought, of course, having a maid at home would make it less lonely.


    "Why are you here?" he asked casually. "I heard that Jta is showing signs of waking up. Is she


    awake now?"


    On hearing it, I became alert. It seemed he knew about Jta''s condition. Clearly, Irving didn''t hide it


    from him. Maybe he was trying to test me.


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    "She''s not bouncing back just like that!" I sighed and said quietly, "Being in aa must be hard!"


    "Oh, I thought she had woken up. That would be a miracle!" Jan agreed. "I was wondering why your


    ward was empty when I came."


    "I woke up and was hungry, so Hannah got me some food. I ate a bit too much and wanted to take a


    walk, so we came here," I exined casually. "After all, with Janice''s status, I have toe and visit."


    "Why didn''t you wait for me toe?" Jan asked.


    I scoffed silently, thinking, what the hell does he think he is?


    "It''ste, and besides, all the patients are women. It wouldn''t be appropriate," I replied nonchntly.


    "Don''t you have things to deal with tomorrow? There''s no need to rush over here."


    I spoke lightly, without showing any emotion.


    "Without you, it''s not a home!" he said so naturally that I wondered if there was something wrong with


    his brain. Or maybe he was so into his role that he had convinced himself.


    After all that had happened, I would be stupid if I still believed his lies.


    "That''s good enough to fool yourself," I thought.


    "Oh... have you checked the trending news?" he asked me excitedly.


    "No, what''s up?" I asked nonchntly.


    "The inte has cleared your name," he said casually.


    I stopped in my tracks and looked at me coldly. "Was I ever guilty? Don''t you know why all this


    happened, Jan? Do you think I deserve to die?"


    The moment I said this, he realized his mistake and immediately pulled me into his arms. "I misspoke. I


    was wrong... I was just repeating what people on the inte say! The situation has turned around!


    That''s what I should have said!"


    He was very apologetic, repeatedly admitting his mistake and trying to pacify me. Then he said


    ingratiatingly, "There''s more good news. You''ll be pleased to hear!"


    He intentionally left me hanging, looking at me with an expectant smile.


    "Well, don''t keep me waiting!" I said, rolling my eyes at him.


    He grinned, clearly satisfied, and said, "The property manager of our estate has been arrested!"


    "Oh?" This, indeed, piqued my interest.

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    Chapter 296


    As soon as Jan found a topic that piqued my interest, he immediately became animated. "It''s


    officially confirmed," he said enthusiastically, "that the property manager was bribed. He let Marissa


    and those reporters into themunity to stir things up. He admitted it himself."


    "I knew it," I scoffed, "He''s a rotten apple. Those people found our house so urately. It had to have


    been an inside job. How else could so many strangers have gotten in?"


    "You''ve got such a sharp mind, honey!" Jan said, grinning and tightening his arm around me.


    I struggled a bit, "Watch it, this is a hospital, not our living room!"


    Laughing mischievously, he said, "Well, let¡¯s save the cuddling for when we''re back home!"


    I almost gagged. Did he really think he was off the hook? I rolled my eyes, wishing I could spit at him.


    Seeing my cold expression, he quickly changed the subject. "Marissa was just ying the victim,


    manipting public opinion. She wanted people to think that you were the viin who took her child


    away. Oh... and the person who smashed our window? That was also rted to the property manager.


    The authorities have released a statement saying the case is under investigation."


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "No wonder," I muttered in agreement, feeling a surge of satisfaction. I had known all along that the


    manager couldn''t be innocent. His arrest signaled that things were turning around.


    "And now the inte trolls have flipped again, starting to me Marissa!"


    "Do you feel bad for her?" I shot back.


    "Heavens no, she got what she deserved! She was nothing but trouble!" Jan spat out bitterly.


    Internally, I scoffed at him. Men''s hearts, as fickle as the changing winds.


    "Don''t you dare mention her in front of me again!" I dered, ice in my voice.


    "Alright! Won''t happen again!" Jan responded quickly.


    Back in the hospital room, I took a shower. Once I had a moment of quiet, shadows began to creep into


    my mind, casting an ufortable pallor over my entire being. I could not seem to shake the memory


    of that dirty sewer where I was held captive and the feeling of filth crawling over my skin.


    A scrape on my arm throbbed with pain. It was red and swollen, a ghastly sight.


    I couldn''t help but wonder, if Marissa¡¯s death was a murder, then who would''ve orchestrated my


    abduction?


    Probably hearing that the shower had stopped, Jan called out from outside.


    Pulling my thoughts back, I got dressed, opened the door, and stepped out.


    Once out of the bathroom, Jan was fussing over me, drying my hair and buzzing around me like.


    Giving in, I quicklyy down and told him, "You should head home! Don''t stay here. It''ll disturb your rest


    and mine!"


    He looked at me with deep concern, saying, "But I''m worried about you!"


    "I''m in a hospital, what''s there to worry about? If I''m discharged, it won''t be until tomorrow anyway. Go


    home!" I said, my tone unintentionally hardened.


    Finally, he murmured, "Alright, you sleep. I''lle see you once I''m done with work tomorrow."


    "I''m going home tomorrow, so don''t bother running around." I quickly rejected him, "You should focus


    on your work. You are busy, aren¡¯t you?"


    "Oh, yes! But I can''t neglect you! Or else, how could something like this happen?" Jan looked


    genuinely remorseful.


    "Crap! Didn''t I get drugged at home too?" I shot back, "You see me lying there, but you don''t bother to


    find out what happened exactly?"


    "I..." Jan was at a loss for words.


    I gave him a disdainful side nce. "Get your affairs in order and report to me. I want to clean up."


    I decided to put my cards on the table, done with beating around the bush, and wanted to see how he


    would handle this situation.

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    Chapter 297


    I watched as he stared at me in silence, then decided to hit him where it hurt. "You don''t need to feel


    aggrieved. Do as you wish. I have no objections! But if you want to continue as the CEO of Medsafe


    Liyah Inc., you''ll need to keep your nose clean. No more scandals. No more stirring up a storm."


    "I won''t!" Jan immediately promised.


    I coldly retorted, "You''re not afraid of losing face, but Medsafe Liyah Inc. is. Don''t think that signing


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    international contracts will solve everything. No conglomerate would want to coborate with a


    are anything but ordinary. You''d better be honest and straightforward in your dealings, not resorting to


    cunning."


    He nodded repeatedly, seeming genuinely submissive.


    I continued, seizing the opportunity, "You should focus on thepany''s affairs! There''s no point to


    constantly buy more properties. Don''t y the game of having multiple hideouts with me!"


    "Honey, I''m not! I just wanted to keep a few more..."


    "Cut the crap! Keep a few more for what? For your secret dating?" I bluntly rebutted, then brought the


    topic back, looking at him and asking, "Have you lost your mind investing in real estate at this point?"


    "Property values have teaued and prices are on a downward spiral. The golden era for property


    spection has passed. Are you sinking money into properties to hemorrhage it?" My words were


    sharp, but they were undeniable truths, leaving him no room for argument.


    Seeing him silently taking my reprimands, I went on, "You have such arge corporation in Medsafe


    Liyah Inc., and now there''s an international order. Isn''t that enough for you to make a profit? Besides,


    isn''t our vi big enough? If you think it''s not, you can sell off those insignificant properties and buy a


    bigger one."


    "I''ll do whatever you want, okay?" Jan reached for my hand, caressing it, which irritated me.


    I snapped, "But the thought of those properties just reminds me of unpleasant things. Don''t try to y


    any tricks. I don''t tolerate that. Since I''ve decided to leave you a way out, you''d better behave and fulfill


    your role as the CEO of Medsafe Liyah Inc. If you don''t want to, let me know in advance. Don''t make it


    hard for yourself!"


    "Honey, rest assured. I''ve learned my lesson this time, and I''ll never disappoint you again!" Jan''s


    words, I must say, were less than convincing.


    "That''s enough! I''m tired!" I withdrew my hand, stretchedzily, and yawned.


    Jan immediately stood up. "Then you better get some sleep! It is getting prettyte, and since you


    don''t want me to stay here, I''ll take my leave!"


    "Mm-hmm," I responded indifferently. But he didn''t leave immediately.


    I nced at him and asked, "Is there anything else?"


    "Oh, right! When you''re feeling better, we need to go back to Silverdale City!" Jan cautiously brought


    up the subject.


    Casting a nce his way, I noticed his fists clench nervously, revealing his eagerness to return


    "Mm-hmm, we''ll talk about it when I get home!" I closed my eyes again andzily said, "I do miss Carl!"


    Jan''s voice immediately brightened. "Yes, I miss Carl too! Okay, honey, I''ll go now. Have a good rest!


    I''ll pick you up tomorrow!"


    I didn''t respond, pretending to be asleep. I didn''t want to talk to him anymore, just hoping he''d leave


    soon. Seeing me silent, he stood by my bed for a while before turning and instructing Hannah, "Take


    good care of her, and let me know if anything happens!"


    Then I heard the sound of his footsteps leaving.


    I suddenly opened my eyes and said to Hannah, "Have someone follow him See where he goes."

 Chapter 298

    Chapter 298


    Hannah shed me an ''okay'' sign and immediately sent off a text.


    I hurriedly got up and went to the bathroom to wash my hand that Jan touched, then pointed outside.


    Hannah stepped out, and in no time, she returned and replied, "He''s left the hospital. There''s someone


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    following him, so you can rx!"


    I sat back down on the bed with relief, picking up my phone to check the trending topics. Just as Jan


    had said, there had been a shocking reversal online. The inte mob that had been going after me for


    days had finally shifted direction.


    The web was now rife with spection about Marissa''s real cause of death.


    There were those clever enough to steer the conversation, saying that if Marissa could frame and harm


    me, it meant she must''ve known about the child''s whereabouts. Framing me, the wife, had been her


    own downfall.


    How about that now?


    Theizens were utterly rational this time, presenting logical arguments, listing Marissa''s countless


    transgressions, naturally exonerating me from the situation. Some attentive individuals also outlined my


    whereabouts, showing that I was nowhere near Goldenvale Town when the child went missing.


    Were there any doubts remaining? This could confirm my alibi, clearing me of all suspicion, even faster


    than the police could.


    I put down my phone, my eyes fixated on the ceiling, a tad irate. Theseizens were really something,


    always ready to condemn someone, without a single soul genuinely concerned about the child.


    I sighed. People could be so unpredictable!


    Seeing me silent, Hannah walked over and asked, "Miss Wilburn, you''re still awake? What''s on your


    mind?"


    I took my eyes off the ceiling and said to Hannah, "I wonder who could have kidnapped me? Could it be


    the same group that killed Marissa?"


    Hannah chuckled, "Don''t overthink it. Sooner orter, it''ll all be clear. The driver might be dead, but


    there must be traces of him, which will eventually lead us to his hideout."


    "But don''t you find it strange? The driver is dead, and Bald''s whereabouts are unknown. Who could be


    so meticulous? Aside from Jerome, I can''t think of anyone else who would target me. All these years,


    I''ve been minding my own business. I haven¡¯t offended anyone, so how did I attract so much trouble?"


    Hannahforted me, "Life is unpredictable! As they say, ''the bestid ns often go awry.''"


    I broke into a grin at her words, "You''re right! I keep thinking about the AzureEnchantress that Marissa


    mentioned during herst call to me. It has to be the same AzureEnchantress from Jan''s phone. But


    who is this AzureEnchantress? Marissa must''ve known something. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have


    mentioned this person. Maybe she was killed because she knew too much!"


    Hannah calmly said, "That woman wasn''t really smart! If she had stayed out of trouble, she might''ve


    had a chance for a better future. But she chose the wrong path."


    I looked at Hannah, my thoughts whirling, murmuring, "How can we find out more about this


    AzureEnchantress?"


    "Logan and his team are also tracking this person but..." Hannah shook her head helplessly, "No luck


    so far."


    "I just don''t understand how Jan could''ve gotten in touch with such a mysterious figure. And from


    what Marissa implied in herst call to me, it seemed like she was certain that this person would take


    care of me!" I sighed, "Marissa really left too soon!"


    Hannah confidently stated, "Her death was no coincidence!"


    "What about the child? I mean, Evan! Was he relocated by Zora, or was he stolen? Could ra have


    been used?" I asked Hannah, puzzled.


    "That''s entirely possible." Hannah nodded in affirmation.


    The more we talked, the more excited we became, yet we couldn''t find a single lead.


    After talking with Hannah a bit more, just as I was about to sleep, Hannah received a phone call. After


    hanging up, she frowned and shared some news with me...

 Chapter 299

    Chapter 299


    I looked at her curiously and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Jan didn''t go home after leaving the hospital. Instead, he went to a private residence. We''ve


    confirmed that Jerome is there!" Hannah said, looking serious as she spoke to me.


    I was startled, bolting upright from my bed. "What? He went to see Jerome?"


    Hannah nodded solemnly. "Yes, he went to see Jerome."


    I found it hard to believe, muttering, "That''s impossible... Why would he go see Jerome? Didn''t they


    have a falling out? Why would he go see him in the middle of the night?"


    I looked at Hannah and said, "This doesn''t add up."


    Hannah agreed, "It certainly doesn''t, especially at this hour. It''s very telling."


    I started to feel worried. "Could their feud have been fake? That would be terrifying!"


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The more I thought about it, the more it scared me. If that was the case, it meant they had a sinister


    n, and I was undoubtedly their target.


    I immediately dialed Logan''s number, and he answered it quickly. His deep voice came through, "Hello,


    darling."


    Hearing his voice was immensely reassuring. I wasn''t sure when, but Logan had somehow be a


    pir of support for me.


    I didn''t beat around the bush. "Logan, I need to ask you something. Can you still eavesdrop on Jan


    like you did before?"


    He quickly responded, "The bug I used was basic, with a low battery life to avoid detection. It''s not


    working anymore. What''s up? Why do you want to spy on him?"


    I sighed in frustration. "I''m in a bit of a situation." Then I exined how Jan had met with me and


    then immediately went to see Jerome.


    He paused for a moment before responding, "If it''s necessary, we can nt another bug."


    "I need to know why Jan went to see Jerome. That''s pretty scary if they¡¯re ying me," I said,


    struggling to keep myposure. The whole situation sent chills down my spine.


    "Don''t worry, Allie. You stick to your n, and we''ll handle the rest. Even if they''re putting on a show,


    we''ll break it," Logan assured me confidently.


    "Really?" I asked, excited.


    He respondedzily, "What else? We can''t let them string us along, can we? You''re smart. You''ll be


    fine. You got this!"


    His words made meugh, and I suddenly felt a little more at ease. "You''re such a joker! Kidnappings


    are bing routine for us, so how can I be calm? And ''got this''? I''m the one being yed!"


    "No way, this was just a fluke. It won''t happen again," Logan reassured me, "No matter what happens,


    don''t panic. Stay calm. Remember when you gave me the Tylenol? You handled that perfectly."


    His words made me burst outughing. That memory was still fresh.


    "You''re grossing me out again?" I said,ughing so hard that I was crying. "There''s one more thing!"


    "Even if there were a dozen more, they''d be nothing. Go ahead."


    I smiled, feeling warm. I then told Logan about my encounter with Jta today, and how Catherine


    and I managed to get information out of Olivia.


    He listened without interrupting. Once I was finished, he chuckled, "You women are something. You


    can get top-secret information as easily as picking up a burger at a drive-thru. I''m impressed!"


    His praise made me feel even more proud. "Right?"


    "With your brains and Catherine''s gift of gab, you two could con anyone!" Logan knew us too well. "You


    two should team up. You could make a killing. We''re talking seven figures!¡±


    "Really? Then Catherine and I won''t starve in the future!" I joked.


    "No way, my cousin and I won''t let you two starve! We''ve got enough to get by," Logan''s words were a


    little cryptic.


    "What do you mean?" I asked, instantly wishing I hadn''t. Did he mean that Ronan would take good


    care of me for a lifetime? A swift blush spread across my face.

 Chapter 300

    Chapter 300


    Sure enough, Logan seized the moment to continue his banter, "You can''t crack it? You are kidding,


    right?"


    "I can fend for myself and I won''t starve!" I retorted stubbornly.


    "True, you won''t starve, but you''re bound to cause some trouble!" Logan exaggerated.


    Despite Logan''s chatty nature, I had to admit, his words always brought me a sense of security.


    "What are you talking about? If they didn''t harm us, we wouldn''t have to cause trouble. We specialize in


    uncovering secrets!" Iughed proudly, my words confident and bold.


    In the end, he generously imed, "I''ll handle this task for Janice, so just rx! Better catch some


    sleep. Staying upte won''t do your beauty any good!"


    After hanging up, my worries from earlier vanished. Logan was right. Fear gets me nowhere. I have to


    tackle problems as theye. Respond to changes on the spot. That''s all.


    I cheerfully said to Hannah, "Hannah, let''s get some sleep! Tomorrow is a new day! I, Aaliyah, won¡¯t be


    defeated! At this point, there''s no use being scared! The priority is to get a good night''s sleep to have


    the energy to deal with those two. Otherwise, sleep deprivation will cause brain hypoxia, dulling our


    senses!"


    My words sessfully amused Hannah. She exaggeratedly said, "Oh, give me a break! Allie, are your


    senses dull? I was totally stunned by your sharpments on Dawslug earlier! You were hitting hard,


    and from where I was watching, Jan''s face was beet red!"


    "Did he expect anything less when he turned my world into endless prairies? Making him embarrassed


    was the least I could do. What more does he want?" I snorted dismissively, continuing my bold stance,


    "Is it easy to be the president of Medsafe Liyah Inc.? If he wants to keep a clean image outside, he has


    to get down on his knees at home. It''s not me being unreasonable, it''s just that I''ve been too lenient


    with him before. He''s forgotten his ce!"


    "Absolutely, this man is totally ungrateful!" Hannah chimed in, "But his grovelling today made me


    instantly sick of him!"


    "I know how you feel," I nced at Hannah''s focused gaze and sighed, "To be honest, I was totally


    fooled by him before. I noticed his ws, but I always thought that since he came from a poor


    background and wasn¡¯t exposed to therger world, these faults were normal!"


    "He''s definitely an exception! I must say, he must have had his merits to be able to marry you!" Hannah


    analyzed.


    "You''re right. His merits were precisely his ability to bend, plus his sweet-talking mouth. He may not


    have been able to offer any substantial gifts, but he was willing to bend his knees! So he was always


    attentive and considerate."


    I analyzed my past self, "Imagine, he took me as a pursuit, putting all his heart into it, could he possibly


    fail? That''s how I ended up in his trap."


    Hannah pondered, listening attentively.


    "I always foolishly thought that as long as I created opportunities for him, with his intelligence and


    insight, he would quickly get rid of his petty greediness. But instead, he became even more vulgar and


    his actions became bolder. Aplete lowbred upstart!"


    Hannah burst intoughter, "Speaking of that trait, your mother-inw is the best example!"


    Her words sessfully made meugh, "See, you''ve only met her twice and you''ve already seen


    through her!"


    Hannah added, "Jan is too soft-kneed and hecks courage. He doesn¡¯t deserve you, Miss


    Wilburn!"


    I smiled bitterly, "Thant¡¯s for sure."


    Hannah looked at me, wanting to say something but hesitating. She just gave a dryugh.


    "Just say it!" I encouraged her.


    "Well... I wanted to ask you, our ''boss'' is so deeply in love with you, but how did you end up with


    Jan?" Hannah finally asked the question she wanted to ask.


    I fell silent, a wave of bitterness washing over me.


    I nced at her and replied, "It''s a long story. I''ll tell you when we have more time. Let''s sleep now."


    Without a word, Hannah turned off the light and went to bed.


    I found the mostfortable position and fell asleep almost instantly.


    The next day.


    A series of urgent phone rings pulled me from my dreams, but when I answered the call, a sense of


    foreboding overwhelmed me.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 301

    Chapter 301


    Sleep hadpletely abandoned me. I quickly got out of bed and freshened up.


    Hannah had prepared breakfast for me, but I was too worried to eat. "Hannah, we need to go to the


    police station," I told her.


    She seemed slightly taken aback, but quickly recovered, fetched my clothes for me while I changed


    from my pajamas. We both headed out with swift strides.


    The call was from the police. They said they''d found some traces of Evan and wanted me toe in.


    When I asked for more details, they simply replied, "You''ll know when you get here."


    That kind of answer left my heart hanging in my throat. What could be so serious that they couldn''t tell


    me over the phone?


    Upon reaching the police station, I was escorted to their visitors'' room. I couldn''t help but ask


    impatiently, "What''s so urgent? Do you have any news about Evan?"


    The two officers exchanged a nce. One of them, a female officer, got us some water and kindly told


    me, "Please be patient, Ms. Wilburn. Just a moment."


    She then left the room and returned shortly, carrying two items sealed in stic bags.


    The officer came up to me, ced the two bags in front of me, and said, "Ms. Wilburn, we''d like you to


    help us identify these two items."


    My eyes were glued to the sealed bags. One of them contained a shoe.


    To be precise, a boy''s shoe. Yes, it was clearly a boy''s shoe.


    A chill ran down my spine. My heart pounded wildly in my chest. I then felt as if it was being squeezed


    tight. Pain spread across my chest.


    I didn''t want to guess what was going on, so I looked at the female officer and asked, "What...what are


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    you implying?"


    She looked at me and exined gently, "Ms. Wilburn, please don''t misunderstand. We just want you to


    help us identify if you''ve seen this shoe before."


    I looked back at the shoe. It was like a spell had been cast on it, making me nervous. I had to look at


    the officer again. "You... What..."


    I felt overwhelmed. My mind went nk, uncertain of how to respond.


    The two officers exchanged another nce, as if understanding my reaction. They confessed, "We


    suspect this is Evan''s shoe, but we aren''tpletely sure. That''s why we asked you toe and


    identify if you''ve ever seen him wear this shoe."


    I looked at Hannah, feeling helpless. Could my worst fears being true?


    Hannah came up behind me, her hands resting on my shoulders, giving them a reassuring squeeze.


    "We just need to identify it. Don''t worry."


    Her calm demeanor made me realize that Hannah probably knew about this before me.


    I took a deep breath to calm myself down. Reaching out, I picked up the shoe. My hand trembled


    slightly.


    Truth be told, at that moment, I wanted to run away. I didn''t want to help them identify anything.


    I didn''t want any of this to be happening, especially not at this moment. Deep down, I had a feeling that


    this shoe was linked to Evan. I just didn''t want to face it.


    The next second, I took the shoe and brought it in front of me.


    Although specked with dirt, this was a style popr among young boys. Despite the grime, it was


    evident that it was rtively new. The unfastened design wasmonce, nothing else about it


    stood out considerably.


    The officer saw me studying the shoe but didn''t say anything. She asked cautiously, "Ms. Wilburn, have


    you seen this shoe before? Or has Evan worn something like this?"


    After staring at the shoe for a while, I looked up at the officer and asked back, "Are you sure this is


    Evan''s shoe? Where did you find it?"

 Chapter 302

    Chapter 302


    The officer nced at the other officer, their eyes clearlymunicating before she spoke. "We''re not


    sure that this is Evan''s shoe, but given the style and condition of the shoe, it doesn''t seem like it would


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    belong to an average kid."


    Hearing this, I looked at the shoe again, my heart sinking even further.


    The officer continued, "We have asked around and confirmed that this shoe is pretty pricey. And from


    the condition of the shoe, it seems like they''re practically new. They shouldn''t have been discarded,


    especially since we only found one of them!"


    "Where did you find it?" I asked urgently.


    "We found it on the outskirts of the west side of town, on the fringe of the borough. It''s a bit remote, and


    the area is mostly inhabited by farming families. It doesn¡¯t seem like their kids would wear such shoes!


    And there''s something else..."


    She then handed me another stic bag and said, "We also found this."


    I took a look and felt like I had been struck by lightning. My heart turned ice-cold, but I kept my


    Inside the bag was a crumpled piece of paper, apparently soaked in rainwater, the writing barely visible.


    The paper had clearly been torn and was only a quarter of its original size.


    But coincidentally, I could vaguely make out the name ''Evan'' and a series of numbers. I looked at the


    officers across from me, my eyes full of questions. "What is this...?"


    "Can''t you tell what it is?" The male officer asked.


    I shook my head, feeling a sense of foreboding.


    I tentatively asked, "Is this shoe directly rted to this piece of paper? It looks like Evan''s name is on it,


    but¡­"


    Before I could finish, the officer, perhaps misinterpreting my words or simply in a hurry, said directly,


    "We had it examined and it''s a DNA test report. Unfortunately, we can''t confirm the other person''s


    name!"


    As she spoke, the male officer gave her a look, seemingly unsatisfied.


    But I was certain that this was the report that had been missing from ra''s bag. I hesitated,


    wondering whether to tell the police what I knew.


    But once I did, the implications would be enormous.


    Moreover, my n for revenge was already in motion, a point of no return.


    Just a step away from making Jan pay, from making the Dawson family pay. This was the dream I


    had longed for ever since awakening from the nightmare.


    I was torn between revealing the truth and staying silent. As I was wrestling with this decision, the


    officer spoke again, "We only suspect that this might be Evan''s shoe because we found this piece of


    paper. Given that you have seen the child, we asked you here to help us confirm if you''ve seen him


    wearing the shoe."


    I looked at the officer and said honestly, "Actually, I am still quite unfamiliar with the child. I have only


    seen him a few times when picking up my own children from school. I''ve only had close contact with


    him once."


    The officer immediately asked, "Can you describe in detail how you came into contact with him?"


    Without hesitation, I said, "One time Marissa didn''te to pick him up from school. I was afraid he


    might get anxious or lost, so I held his hand and handed him over to his teacher. The other times, I only


    saw him from afar, so I really can''t be sure if the shoe is his."


    "Can you think carefully about the time you had close contact with him? Was he wearing the shoe?"


    The officer was persistent. "Ms. Wilburn, confirming the shoe is very important to us. It might help us


    find the child quickly."

 Chapter 303

    Chapter 303


    I closed my eyes and thought back carefully to that time when I held him by his tiny hand and handed


    him over to his teacher.


    But for the life of me, I couldn''t remember what kind of shoes he was wearing.


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I opened my eyes, shaking my head helplessly, "I have no idea. I didn''t pay any attention to his shoes."


    My words were reasonable. After all, who deliberately observed a child''s shoes?


    The two officers looked at me with disappointment.


    I continued to stare at the shoe in silence.


    Though I couldn''t be certain it belonged to Evan, it felt oddly familiar.


    I was familiar with the shoe, yet the image of it on his foot was blurred.


    It was like seeing Evan again. He was so close, yet so out of reach.


    I was suddenly reminded of the scene in the storm drain.


    Just like now, he was near me, crouched in front of me, but I couldn''t touch him.


    The officers shook their heads regretfully, ready to take the shoe and end the conversation.


    At that moment, the image of Evan in the drain shed in my mind again.


    I reached out abruptly, holding onto the shoe, "Wait!"


    The officers turned their gaze towards me.


    I closed my eyes again, recalling the moment in the drain. He was crouching before me, and his eyes


    locked onto mine, full of confusion and helplessness.


    Following my train of thought, I looked at him and then moved my gaze to his shoes. At that moment, I


    saw clearly that he was wearing this exact shoe.


    I broke down, crying out, "Officer, this is Evan''s shoe. I''m sure this is Evan''s shoe. It''s Evan''s shoe."


    Tears streaming down my face, I pleaded desperately.


    The police looked surprised, slightly skeptical, "Are you sure? Didn''t you say you have no idea?"


    Nodding frantically, I choked out, "I''m sure. Evan was wearing this shoe."


    The female officer stood up,forting me, "Ms. Wilburn, take your time and don''t stress yourself.


    Please answer my question carefully."


    With great effort, Iposed myself and nodded solemnly.


    "Are you sure this shoe belongs to Evan?"


    I nodded seriously, saying, "I''m sure. It is Evan''s shoe."


    She paused for a moment before asking, "How are you so sure?"


    I wiped my face, looking at her hesitantly, wondering if they would believe my words.


    The female officer encouraged me with a nod, "Tell us the truth, and don''t worry."


    I then recounted the scene when I was kidnapped, the blurry vision of Evan in front of me.


    After listening to my story, the officers looked surprised. They nced at each other before again


    asking me, "Are you sure?"


    "Yes, I''m sure," I said with utmost gravity.


    Hannah, who had been standing behind me, also nodded to the police, affirming the credibility of my


    words.


    I asked, "Officer, have you found any trace of Evan? You said this shoe was found in the outskirts, but


    what about him? Haven''t you seen him?"


    My questions were urgent and my tone was a little harsh. I was desperate to know what had happened


    to Evan.


    Hannah put a hand on my shoulder, urging me to calm down, but I was already trying my best.


    The female officer looked solemn and regretful, "I''m sorry, Ms. Wilburn. We only found this shoe, no


    sign of Evan. We suspect that he may have been killed."

 Chapter 304

    Chapter 304


    Hearing her words, I fell apart once again, tears gushing from my eyes like a broken dam, "So, you''re


    saying that he..."


    "About 30 feet from where the shoe was found, there''s a storm drain and it¡¯s uncovered." A officer said


    seriously. His words were a sledgehammer to my already shattered hopes.


    Suddenly, it all made sense. When I saw him at that night, he was soaking wet and covered in filth,


    even his eyshes were beaded with droplets of water.


    It was unbelievable, and no wonder his hands were as cold as ice.


    "How could this happen? He''s just a child, so young. His life had barely begun. How could this be?" I


    sobbed uncontrobly, muttering to myself.


    As a mother, I couldn''t face this reality. He was only missing, and why was he taken to the outskirts of


    the city? Why was he dead?


    That word "dead" at this moment was too painful for me to bear.


    Hannah tried tofort me.


    Suddenly, a question urred to me, and I choked out to the officers, "Why did you go there all of a


    sudden and find this shoe? What led you there? Was there a clue? Can you tell me? I want to know." I


    looked at them almost pleadingly, waiting for their answers.


    The female officer who had beenmunicating with me nced at her partner, seemingly asking for


    his approval. After a moment of thought, he nodded, and she spoke, "A local from the vige on the


    outskirts of the city reported it. He said he saw a man in a raincoat with a child on the night of the 20th.


    It was pouring, and the child wasn''t wearing anything to keep himself dry, just clinging tightly to the


    man''s neck, drenched like a drowned rat.


    ording to the local, he initially cursed the man for being irresponsible, wrapping himself up while


    letting the child get soaked in the rain. But then he thought it was odd for someone to be out with a


    child sote in this weather, so he reported it."


    The words tore at my heart, and what had happened to Evan?


    The image of Evan crouched in the drain, looking at me, kept shing in my mind.


    "Did he see what the man looked like?" I asked through gritted teeth.


    The female officer shook her head, "ording to him, the man was fully covered in a raincoat. Plus, it


    waste and dark, and the rain was heavy. He didn''t get a clear look at the man''s face. He did say that


    the man was carrying a little boy, who obediently rested on his shoulder, clinging tightly to his neck.


    And he was drenched in the rain."


    An intense pain twisted in my chest. I pounded the table in front of me, crying out, "How could this


    happen? What kind of sick person would do this?"


    "Ms. Wilburn, don''t be too upset. We''re still specting. We haven''t confirmed that Evan was harmed.


    We have people searching the drains in that area. Let''s hope for a turn of events." The officer tried to


    I cleaned my face and fell silent. But my mind was racing. The 20th?


    Wasn''t that the night we had the celebratory dinner at Medsafe Liyah Inc., the night ra said Evan


    disappeared? Everything seemed to line up. But who could have taken Evan?


    I looked up at the officers, testing the waters, "If Evan was clinging tightly to the man''s neck, it''s clear


    that he knew him."


    "Ms. Wilburn, rest assured. We''re investigating," the female officer assured me. She then added with


    an apologetic smile, "Let''s call it a day. I''ll keep you updated if there''s any good news."


    I nodded, understanding that regardless of how many questions I asked, they wouldn''t say any more.


    All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As we all rose to leave, the female officer courteously escorted us out. Just as we were about to step


    out, two excited young detectives rushed in from outside. They called out to everyone in the station,


    "We''ve got a lead. We finally have a lead."

 Chapter 305

    Chapter 305


    I abruptly halted, my gaze following their figures as they moved into the main hall. I perked up my ears


    to catch what the officer was saying.


    "A driving recorder inside a sedan parked on the slope, and it recorded everything." A young policeman


    in a casual shirt excitedly announced, pulling out a USB stick from his pocket.


    People in the hall immediately gathered around, obviously excited by the news.


    I turned to the female officer who had brought us in, "Did you find a clue about Evan? Can I see it too?"


    The officer hesitated, so I quickly pleaded, "Maybe I can help identify something."


    At this, she looked unsure, but I didn''t give her time to respond, "Don''t worry. I know your procedures


    are confidential. I won''t say a word to anyone."


    Without waiting for her approval, I walked further into the room. I was desperate to see what was going


    on.


    The female officer called after me, and the male officer who had questioned me earlier, obviously a


    leader, looked surprised. He quickly understood what was happening and waved the female officer off,


    indicating she should let me stay.


    Hannah and I walked over. The leader instructed the young officer who had arrivedst, "Take it to the


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    conference room, and put it on the big screen."


    We all moved to arger conference room. The young man plugged in the USB stick and turned on the


    The screen flickered a few times before a dark scene appeared, and the sound of a steady rain was


    audible in the background.


    My nerves immediately tightened, and my eyes fixed on the screen.


    The scene was dimly lit, showing a curve in the road, a gentle slope extending into the distance.


    Sparse lights twinkled in the darkness. The rain was heavy, and no one was around. The gathered


    rainwater rushed down the slope in a swift and relentless torrent.


    I gripped my hands tightly, hardly daring to breathe, afraid to miss any detail.


    This went on for what felt like a long time, and then, finally, a figure appeared, ghost-like as it moved up


    the slope.


    The image was blurry, perhaps due to the angle, appearing and disappearing intermittently.


    The leader ordered, "Zoom in."


    The image was enhanced, and though the figure was cloaked in arge raincoat with a hat covering his


    face, it was clear that he was carrying a child. Evan was wearing light-colored clothing, which stood out


    against the darkness. His legs dangled down, clearly lying across the man''s shoulders with his face


    buried into the man''s neck.


    Rain pounded relentlessly on them, his small body exposed to the rain.


    Tears blurred my vision, and I trembled involuntarily. I quickly cleaned my tears, afraid to miss anything.


    The man kept looking back as he moved, observing his surroundings.


    A wave of despair washed over me as I recognized Evan in the video. I regretted not confronting Zora


    earlier to get Evan back.


    Warm tears streamed down my face, and my heart ached.


    The figure paused, looking around. Evan in his arms squirmed, straightening up, and looked at the


    person. He struggled.


    The man appeared to mutter something, and Evan struggled more, one shoe falling off.


    I held my breath, my eyes glued to the screen.


    The man seemed to be angry, pping Evan''s bottom. Evan immediately stilled, and a faint cry


    could be heard.


    The man quickened his pace, then suddenly stopped and looked back the way he hade. He then


    lowered Evan from his shoulders.


    I was so nervous, a bitter taste filling my mouth. I tried to hold back my tears, keeping my gaze on the


    screen.


    But the next scene that unfolded left everyone in the room stunned.

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    Chapter 306


    In the scene, Evan was struggling in the man''s grasp, looking up as though saying something, but his


    words were drowned out. In the next instant, the man stretched out a ghastly hand, seizing Evan and


    propelling him forward.


    Evan vanished from the scene.


    I let out a startled cry, "Help!"


    Everyone turned to look at me, but the man in the footage continued his actions. He paused, seeming


    to pull something from within his coat, brutally tearing it to shreds and then tossing it aside. Without a


    backward nce, he followed the path he hade from, disappearing into the rainy night.


    I understood then, what he had torn and discarded was likely the DNA test report. It was this document


    that led to Evan''s demise.


    I slumped into the chair, covering my face, trying to control my sobbing and prevent any sound from


    escaping.


    Hannah stood by my side, speechless, "Aaliyah, it''s reality. You should grieve."


    I abruptly lifted my head, "Who is he? This beast, utterly heartless."


    A police officer sighed, "He''s truly inhumane. How could anyone harm an innocent child? It seems like


    Evan knew him because Evan clung onto his neck so tightly."


    "But why didn''t he spare Evan? He''s so young, and what threat could he pose?"


    The chatter and conjectures continued.


    The leader pped his hands, "We need to scrutinize this footage and find any trace of this man."


    "We should start with people Evan knew."


    "Judging by the figure, strength, and movements, it''s undoubtedly a male."


    The leader instructed the officer in the id shirt, "y it again."


    The officer immediatelyplied, ying the footage once more.


    Hannah whispered soothing words in my ear, "Aaliyah, why don''t we go back?"


    "No," I shook my head determinedly, "I want to watch it again."


    I wiped my face and moved to the front, my eyes fixed on the screen.


    The shadow reappeared in my vision. This time, the footage wasn''t zoomed in, and I focused intently


    on the person in the scene.


    Honestly, there wasn''t a single glimpse of his face. It was as though under that hood was nothing but


    darkness.


    Even his movements were concealed by the oversized raincoat he wore.


    I clenched my fist, my fingernails digging into my palm, but I didn''t feel any pain.


    This time, with the scene not zoomed in, we could clearly see Evan being propelled into a dark


    whirlpool by the ghostly man.


    Everyone present knew that was a storm drain. It devoured Evan like a gaping mouth.


    I felt as though my heart was being torn into pieces, the pain radiating throughout my body.


    "He''s too cunning, not a single w."


    "There''s no such thing as no ws. Even the most meticulous disguise leaves traces. If you say there''s


    no w, it means we''re not trying hard enough. Keep going." the leader ordered again.


    After watching the footage several times, each time felt like torture.


    I didn''t know how Marissa would react if she were alive and saw this.


    After the footage yed again, I asked the officer in the id shirt, "Could you y the part where he


    walks away again, but zoomed in?"


    The officer immediately did as I asked. I stared at the screen and murmured, "He looks like Jerome."


    Myment sparked a discussion among them, with some voicing their dissent.


    "But he has an alibi,¡± one of them interjected. ¡°He was at the Medsafe Liyah Inc. celebration that night."


    I immediately turned to the officer, "No, he left at one point."


    Then I recounted the events I had noticed that night.


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    The leader immediately dispatched someone, "Check all possible overlooked surveince footage from


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. that night, anything that can prove he left or stayed, find any overlooked evidence."


    I didn''t pay any attention to their arrangements and continued to watch the footage with a calm face.


    My tears had dried up, making my face feel tight and ufortable, but I ignored it.


    I was still looking for any clues that could prove this man was Jerome.


    Suddenly, my eyes fixed on a point, and I called out, "Stop!"

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    Chapter 307


    I quickly motioned to stop the video, pointing at a particr spot on the screen, "Zoom in. Right here."


    The young officerplied immediately, patiently erging the image as per my instruction.


    I stared at the image, then turned to the other officers in the room, "Can you see what shoes he''s


    wearing?"


    The remaining officers in the room turned their attention to the image, scrutinizing it carefully. The


    conference room was silent, and every eye was glued to the screen.


    "It looks like canvas shoes." Hannah, standing behind me, mused aloud.


    Another officer agreed, "It certainly looks like a pair of canvas shoes."


    I mmed my hand on the table, "Exactly! Those are the shoes. Jerome''s particrly fond of these


    shoes now. "


    The room buzzed with renewed energy, everyone straining to confirm the suspect''s shoes.


    The image was zoomed to its maximum. One officer, squinting from the back of the room, called out,


    "Yes, those are the shoes."


    "And I noticed that, despite the oversized raincoat, the way he walks, it''s eerily simr to Jerome''s," I


    added.


    The leader seemed pleased, extending a hand to me, "Thank you, Ms. Wilburn. You''ve saved us a lot


    of time. Now we know who to focus our investigation on."


    Eagerly, I asked, "Now that we have this evidence, shouldn''t we arrest him?"


    "We need solid evidence. If we can prove he left the celebration early and found Evan. We can arrest


    him. " the officer replied, his voice revealing a hint ofpassion.


    I understood what he meant. He was suggesting that we need to find Evan''s dead body.


    It seemed no one wanted to face that harsh reality.


    As I was about to leave, he handed me a business card. His name was Dalton, the leader of the


    criminal police group.


    He courteously walked me to the door, and I turned to him, "If you find Evan..."


    I paused, then forced out the words, "Could you let me know? I''d like to see him one more time."


    Dalton nodded, "Okay. Wait for my news. We''ll do our best to find him."


    I thanked him and left with Hannah.


    Once in the car, I told Hannah, "Let''s go home."


    I leaned back in my seat, feeling defeated. Even if they found him, it wouldn''t bring back the sweet,


    smiling baby boy.


    Hannah tried tofort me, and I murmured, "Zora and ra are responsible for Evan''s death. I won''t


    let them get away with it."


    "Yes, if Zora hadn''t taken Evan... If ra hadn''t forged the DNA report... If Zora hadn''t used the


    report... But there are no ''ifs'' in this world... Don''t even think about it. Just think of it as himing to


    earth to experience a short life. It was his fate," Hannah replied.


    Her words left me speechless, and I could only whisper, "Such a shame..."


    I was struggling to ept the fact that Evan was gone.


    "Aaliyah, do you think that man is Jerome?" Hannah asked while she was driving the car and ncing


    at me, "That would mean Zora or ra must be involved with Jerome."


    "At the very least, it confirms that Zora is connected to Jerome. Otherwise, the report wouldn''t have


    ended up in Jerome''s hands. I suspect Zora gave the fake report to Jerome, which led to his


    murderous intent," I spected.


    "That jerk Jerome is so cruel. Now, he''s killed his son. I¡¯d love to see his face when he finds out!"


    Hannah spat angrily.


    "Punishing him shouldn''t involve taking a child''s life. It''s too heavy a price," I sighed, "There''s no more


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    sweet and angelic Evan in the world."

 Chapter 308

    Chapter 308


    The image of Evan, looking up at me with those wide, innocent eyes, shed across my mind again. I


    turned to Hannah and sighed, "You know, the first time I saw him, he was far away,ughing and


    ying. His chubby face of his was so darn likable. I remember thinking, if he wasn''t Marissa''s child, I


    might actually like him."


    I chuckled, sharing my secret thoughts with Hannah. It felt good to unload.


    Hannah listened in silence, ncing at me from time to time as she drove.


    "The second time I saw him was at the mall. He spotted Jan from a distance and came running over,


    shouting "Dad" with arms wide open. But Marissa pulled him back before he could reach us. I


    remember his confused eyes, looking at all the adults around him," I continued, looking at Hannah,


    "Marissa was hiding behind him, pinching him to keep him quiet. He was trying so hard not to cry, and I


    could see the tears glistening in his eyes. He stood there, trying to look brave."


    "Marissa is so mean." Hannah pped the steering wheel, visibly angry.


    "It''s clear Marissa wasn''t always kind to him," I said, with a bitter smile, "But he was still so innocent. I


    remember thinking again if only he wasn''t Marissa''s child, I''m sure I would love him."


    Hannah reached over and patted my handfortingly.


    "The third time I saw him, was after the incident that Marissa hooked up with a toy boy. She had been


    beaten up, and no one was there to pick him up from school. I tried to get close to him, to talk to him, to


    find out his name. He was so guarded and scared, but he held my hand. His little hand was chubby and


    soft, and it fit so perfectly in mine. I really liked him then. I wanted to keep holding his hand. But he was


    Marissa''s child, and I couldn''t let myself get too close."


    Tears trickled down my face as I admitted, "I''m so selfish. Why did I have to be so hard on a child?"


    Hannah scoffed, "I don''t understand why Jerome didn''t just do a DNA test instead of believing all the


    lies."


    "I''m sure there must have been something that made him believe the report was real," I said quietly,


    "Thest time I saw Evan was when he was with Jerome."


    "With Jerome?" Hannah asked, sounding curious.


    "Yes, it was after Marissa was beaten up. Jerome had gone to pick him up from school."


    "Really?"


    "Yes, it was a beautiful sight. Jerome obviously adored him. He had Evan sitting on his shoulders, and


    they were both smiling. But who would have thought that Evan''s life would be cut short by his father?"


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    Why would Jerome just push Evan personally? That was what went through my head.


    Only Zora would know the solution to this question.


    When we reached home, Hannah said, "You must be hungry. Let me make you something to eat."


    As she headed towards the kitchen, I copsed onto the sofa, still lost in my thoughts. I prayed that the


    police would find his body soon. The thought of him lying in some dark, damp, dirty ce was


    unbearable.


    Just then, Jan walked in, looking cheerful and carrying a file in his hand.

 Chapter 309

    Chapter 309


    As soon as Jan walked in and saw me, he seemed overjoyed, striding towards me immediately.


    "Honey, you''re home? I was just thinking about picking you up. You''re already home, everything


    settled?" he asked, his face lighting up as he handed me a file from his briefcase.


    I was seething with anger. I abruptly stood up and delivered a resounding p to his handsome face.


    That p was filled with all the force I could muster.


    Jan was stunned, the file dropping from his hands as he stood there bewildered.


    His expression quickly turned to restrained anger, "Aaliyah, what the hell?" he asked, his eyes filled


    with fury.


    As soon as he spoke, Hannah appeared, her sharp eyes fixed on Jan.


    Jan nced at Hannah, reining his emotions in, and added, "Why did you hit me?"


    "Jan, Evan''s dead! Do you think you can escape the me? Don''t you feel guilty?" I yelled at him.


    He seemed stunned, unable to respond.


    "He''s been calling you Dad for years, and he was so young," I shouted, my eyes filled with rage. I


    stepped closer to Jan, staring into his eyes as I asked, "Do you know how he died?"


    Jan seemed taken aback by my words. He backed away as I approached, asking, "How did he die?


    Who said he''s dead? How could..."


    I shouted with all the strength I had, "It''s all because of you, Jan. If you hadn''t listened to those


    rumors and taken him out, how would he have died? Aren''t you scared? Zora dared to harm your child,


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    and doesn''t that scare you?"


    Jan stammered, "But he wasn''t my child."


    I couldn''t ept that and gave him another resounding p.


    "At a time like this, how can you even say that? Are you even human?"


    Jan realized that he''d misspoken. Ignoring the pain from the ps, he grabbed my arms to steady


    me, saying, "Honey, calm down. This isn''t good for your health. Listen to me. I didn''t mean that


    because he''s not my child he deserves to die. I just meant to tell you, he really wasn''t my child."


    I looked at his handsome face, seeing only ugliness, "Do you know how he died?" I asked him.


    Jan looked at me, his face paling, my handprints standing out on his cheek.


    "He was pushed into a storm drain, in the torrential downpour. He was pushed in." I spoke with


    conviction.


    Then I asked him again, "Do you know who pushed him?"


    He just looked at me like an idiot, full of disbelief.


    I snorted, "Your beloved brother, Jerome, did it. He pushed Evan into the storm drain in that heavy rain.


    Evan was swept away in an instant."


    I described it vividly, creating a clear image.


    "Does it hurt, Jan? Even if he wasn''t your child, he was still a part of the Dawson family, and he was


    so young, so adorable."


    I red at him, "Don''t you think he was adorable? He called you Dad, following you around. Can you


    deny that he was adorable?"


    "Do you know why Jerome murdered Evan?" I continued to torment him, "It''s because he believed


    Evan was yours. Jan, you have such a wonderful brother. Because he thought Evan was yours, he


    pushed him into the storm drain without hesitation."

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    Chapter 310


    Upon hearing my words, Jan''s face became a clouded mystery. He stared at me, frozen, but his


    hands clenched involuntarily. It was clear that a struggle was taking ce within him.


    "Just imagine, Jan. If my kid was in his clutches, wouldn''t he do the same? Isn''t it terrifying?"


    "He wouldn''t."


    Iughed sardonically, "But he killed his child. If he could bring himself to do that, what wouldn''t he dare


    do? Poor Evan, just gone like that. If he had been given a chance to grow up, he might have been a


    real credit. But Jerome ruined it. Can you close your eyes? Do you dare sleep? Aren''t you afraid of


    retribution?¡±


    In my rage, I said whatever came to mind, releasing all the pent-up words from my heart. I felt a sense


    of relief wash over me.


    For the sake of Evan, I subjected Jan to a mental interrogation.


    But wasn''t this also a test for me?


    I had to admit, I was not free from me in the development of these events.


    I sat back down on the couch, drained, "Ask Jerome, Jan. When he pushed Evan into the storm


    drain without hesitation, did he ever consider that Evan could have been his child?"


    Jan stepped back, "No, it couldn''t have been him."


    At his words, I burst into uncontrobleughter, nearly gasping for breath.


    This was the most ridiculous thing I''d heard. After theughter subsided, I leaned back, weakly, and


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    murmured, "Go ask Jerome, Jan."


    Jan stood in front of me as if he was utterly clueless about what had happened. He stayed like this


    for a while until the sharp ring of his phone startled him. He quickly pulled it out of his pocket, nced


    at the screen, and his face stiffened. He sneakily nced at me but didn''t answer the call, hanging up


    instead.


    I feigned ignorance and closed my eyes.


    Jan hesitated, then sat next to me. I realized then that this call was significant.


    "Honey, don''t get too upset. Don''t listen to the rumors and the nonsense."


    I opened my eyes, and he quickly corrected himself, "Of course, I''m not trying to excuse Jerome. But,


    my intention wasn''t to harm Evan."


    "You do what you have to do. I can''t manage everything. Evan was your family''s child. None of you


    seemed to care, so why should I waste my energy worrying about it and upsetting you?"


    "I''m not upset. How could I be? I don''t me you. I know you''re kind-hearted. I didn''t expect things to


    turn out like this either. When you pointed it out, it hit me hard."


    I was tired of his rambling and interrupted him, "Go do your work. Didn''t you get a call? I don''t want to


    hear about Evan anymore. You better handle your mess."


    He nodded repeatedly, "Don''t worry about it. I won''t take thepany''s matters lightly."


    Seeing that I wasn''t paying attention to him anymore, he stood up and said, "I''ll go handle some


    business. I''ll be backter. This bag is full of the things you asked for. Everything is here. I didn''t hide


    anything."


    I didn''t respond, and he added, "I''ll be going then."


    When I heard his footsteps retreating, I slowly opened my eyes. He was no longer in my sight.


    I looked at Hannah, and she immediately got what I meant, dialing a number. I heard her telling the


    person on the other end, "Keep a close eye on him. Make sure to find out who he is meeting."


    I nced at the bag of documents next to me. It was heavy. I was a bit puzzled, so I sat up and opened


    the bag. Inside were six property deeds and six keys. No wonder the bag was so heavy.


    After lunch, I took a short nap, and then Hannah and I checked out the six properties. I asked Hannah


    to put all of them up for sale immediately, leaving nothing behind, to prevent any future issues.


    I was convinced that Jan wouldn''t dare to deceive me in this matter. His triumphant expression when


    he returned with these items was proof enough that he wasn''t holding anything back.


    Finally, something had gone right in my day.


    In the evening, just as we got home, we received some bad news, Jerome had gone missing.

 Chapter 311

    Chapter 311


    The message came from Logan.


    At first, I thought that Jan had tipped off Jerome, and I was kicking myself.


    But Hannah had managed to track his afternoon movements, and he hadn''t met with Jerome. Instead,


    he''d met with a client, drinking until three in the afternoon at a local pub. There was nothing suspicious


    about the meeting at all.


    I was confused. Who had made that dropped call to him?


    And why on earth had Jerome disappeared at such a crucial moment?


    Without thinking, I texted Logan, sending just a question mark.


    Not long after, Logan responded with a video link. I clicked on it right away.


    A cordon had been put up at the location of the storm drain in the vige where Evan''s ident was


    shown in the video. Police were searching the storm drain in hopes of finding Evan''s body.


    To be honest, seeing this image churned my stomach. I wasn''t sure if they would find anything.


    Outside the cordoned-off area, many of the residents were watching the spectacle.


    As I scrutinized the video, I spotted Jerome. He was at a small grocery store not far from the cordon.


    After leaving the store, Jerome nced at the police activity before casually walking across the street,


    climbing into his car, and driving away.


    I could hardly believe what I was seeing. How dare he tantly check out the scene of the crime?


    But as he stepped out of the grocery store, I paused the video and zoomed in. Sure enough, Jerome


    was wearing ck canvas shoes, the same ones he''d worn at the scene.


    "I knew it. It''s him, no doubt." I muttered to myself.


    I dialed Logan''s number immediately and asked, "How are you sure Jerome''s missing? When was this


    video taken? But he certainly has guts, daring to inspect the crime scene."


    "The video was taken by someone I had tailing him. But after he left there, he disappeared," Logan


    replied calmly.


    "How could he just disappear? Didn''t you have him followed?" I asked, a little puzzled.


    "The guy tailing him lost him, and after that, there was no sign of him. Even his car disappeared. We


    suspect something might be up with the car, but we haven''t found any departure record yet. Perhaps


    this is good news. As long as he''s still in Goldenvale Town, we can handle it."


    "Your guy must be a professional, right? How could he lose him?" I questioned, "This is getting strange,


    isn''t it?"


    "Jerome was alert. Plus, there are many blind spots around that neighborhood, making it easy for him


    to switch cars or hide. This indicates one thing."


    "What''s that?" I asked impatiently.


    "It means Jerome is very familiar with that area." Logan analyzed.


    I pondered for a moment. How could he be familiar with that ce?


    "Are you sure he''s missing?" I asked, somewhat frustrated, "If he''s run off, that would be bad."


    Logan said, "We haven''t had any sign of him for six hours. If that doesn''t say something, I don''t know


    what does. Besides, he disappeared after shaking off our guy. We must alert him. You guys be careful


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    out there."


    I nodded, "So, what do we do now?"


    Logan casually replied, "We can find a way to lure him out. "


    "How?" I asked eagerly, feeling a bit uneasy. If Jerome got away scot-free, that would be a problem.


    "There are ways. We''ll have to see how fast the police can search." Logan hinted.


    After a bit more chit-chat, we ended the call.


    I sat on the couch, phone in hand, lost in thought. A daring idea formed in my mind.

 Chapter 312

    Chapter 312


    I nced at the time, realizing it was gettingte. The task at hand would have to wait until morning.


    Hannah who had just finished cleaning up after dinner turned to me and asked, "Aaliyah, you''re still


    up? Go get some sleep!"


    I lifted my gaze to her, "Do you know where Jan went after his social engagement tonight?"


    Without missing a beat, Hannah replied, "He went to a private clinic. It''s quite reputable and under the


    management of Irving Bradlee. They specialize inplex cases."


    "Irving Bradlee''s?" I queried, a look of confusion crossing my face. "Why would he go there?"


    "Aaliyah, have you forgotten? He''s got some unpleasant health issues," Hannah reminded.


    A lightbulb moment struck me, how could I have forgotten? He was no ordinary man, but a walking


    hazard. I''d been cautious about his physical contact, but that didn''t mean he was safe.


    "Do you mean, he''s getting treatment there?" I asked, looking at Hannah, "This sneaky man, always


    disappearing. We have to be careful."


    "Yes, he''s been importing some sort of special medication from overseas. It''s supposed to boost


    immune response and control cell infection," Hannah seemed very sure of this.


    I was surprised, "How do you know all of this? No wonder he hasn''t had any fevertely."


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    Hannah arched an eyebrow, a mischievous grin on her face, "Don''t forget. Mr. Richardson has


    arranged this special care."


    I was speechless, so even this detail was taken care of by Ronan?


    Hannah seemed to read my thoughts, adding with a chuckle, "We have to ensure the safety of you and


    the children."


    Her words warmed my heart, and I couldn''t help but express my gratitude, "Indeed, without you all


    protecting us, I don''t know how I''d handle this scumbag."


    "The credit goes to Mr. Richardson. He''s meticulous, down to the smallest detail," Hannah''s face


    beamed with pride and satisfaction, a hint of gossip in her tone.


    I didn''t dare continue the conversation, even though it feltforting. It was also a bit embarrassing.


    Seeing Hannah''s suggestive expression, I felt at a loss for words.


    I stood up and said to her, "Aren''t you going to bed? Still here gossiping?"


    Hannah gave me a yful smirk. I shot her a nce and headed upstairs.


    As I walked, I thought about why I hadn''t seen Ronan in two days. It seemed he only showed up when I


    was in trouble.


    Just as I was pondering this, my phone rang. I picked it up and was surprised by the caller. Did Ronan


    have a sixth sense? I''d just finishedining about him when he called.


    I answered the call with a sigh, but I couldn''t hide the smile that showed at the corners of my mouth.


    As I spoke to him on the phone, I returned to my room. After some casual banter, he got down to


    business, asking when we couldunch our n.


    "We need to find the right opportunity to stir things up, without harming Medsafe Liyah Inc. Then we


    can start anytime. I don''t want to see him for even one more day."


    "Let''s use Evan''s issue then. We can''t let his death be in vain." Ronan''s tone was quite somber.


    "How so?" I asked urgently.


    "Don''t worry, and you can''t be the one to do it." Ronanforted me, "If we''re going to put on a show,


    let''s make it a grand one. After all, Silverdale City is the prize."


    "When can I return to Silverdale City?" I asked anxiously. To be honest, I was eager to go back. Plus,


    I''d just thought of an idea.


    "You can return anytime. If Jan wants to go, let him go. Everything''s ready there."


    Ronan''s words excited me.


    "What about Jerome''s disappearance?" I asked.


    "Do you think he can escape if I don''t want him to?" Ronan''s tone was quite sinister.


    "You mean¡­" I was slightly taken aback.


    Ronan chuckled softly, "I''m not after Jerome. I''m after the power behind him."


    Understanding his point, I asked, "So, you''re not worried he might run away?"


    "You should get some sleep. Women shouldn''t stay upte, especially you." His tone was


    I had no choice but to contradict him before hanging up amidst hisughter.


    By the time Jan returned, it waste. He seemed exhausted, iming he had dinner out. After a


    shower, he went straight to bed.


    Honestly, seeing him climb into my bed again, I felt a wave of disgust.


    I got out of bed and he asked, "Honey, where are you going?"


    As I walked away, I answered nonchntly, "I''m thirsty."


    He grumbled, "Bring me a ss too."

 Chapter 313

    Chapter 313


    Without responding, I turned on my heel and left the room.


    Once outside, I paused briefly to gather my thoughts before heading downstairs to pour myself a ss


    of water. With the ss in hand, I stared nkly at the clear liquid, my mind a whirlwind of thoughts.


    Eventually, I reached into the hiddenpartment of the liquor cab and retrieved a special vial I''d


    been keeping. I added a drop of its contents to the water. It dissolvedpletely, leaving no trace.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Watching the water, I smirked to myself, a sense of poetic justice washing over me.


    It was time he got a taste of his own medicine.


    I put away the vial and carried the water back upstairs, my heart devoid of any guilt or hesitation.


    Upon returning to the room, I found Jan on the brink of sleep.


    "Water," I said, nudging him slightly.


    He grumbled a bit before sluggishly sitting up and taking the ss. He drank it down in a few big gulps,


    managing to mumble a sleepy thanks before falling back onto the bed, fast asleep. He must have really


    been tired.


    I climbed into bed, pretending to prepare for sleep. His snoring filled the room.


    I rolled over to face him, staring at his face in the dim light. It had been a while since I''d taken a close


    look at him. For some reason, tonight, I found myself studying his features.


    His stubble was more visible in the soft glow of the night, his hair tousled from the day. He was thinner


    than I remembered.


    I scoffed in my heart. He was the epitome of heartlessness. The tragic deaths of Marissa and Evan


    seemed to have had little effect on him.


    He even wanted to kill me, what else could he not let go of? Not to mention he knew Marissa was


    unfaithful, and Evan wasn''t his child, so what did it matter if he was dead or alive?


    I thought about Hazel, wondering how she''d react to the news about Evan. I wasn''t trying to revel in her


    misery, I simply wanted to see if there was any genuine affection left in the Dawson family.


    Evan was Hazel''s favorite. Now that he died, I''d like to see how much it would hurt Hazel.


    Jan was increasingly bing a terrifying figure. At what point had I started sharing my bed with


    such a monster?


    I gently removed the ss of water from the bedside table, recing it after a quick rinse and refill


    downstairs. I then picked up his phone from under his pillow. But when I tried to unlock it, the screen


    shed, indicating a wrong password.


    I was a little confused. Did he change his password again?


    Baffled, I tried the old password. It worked.


    I felt a pang of disappointment. It seemed I couldn''t find out anything. It appeared he had changed his


    tactics. I checked his call history. Most of the calls seemed work-rted.


    I paid extra attention to the missed calls during lunchtime. There was none. That was when I realized


    the phone call that had upset him earlier wasn''t made to this phone.


    I noticed a call from Jerometest night,sting only 25 seconds. It must have been the call to


    arrange their meeting.


    There were also a few missed calls from Zora, saved under the contact name "Nanny" in his phone.


    This confirmed my suspicions that he had no feelings for Zora. She was simply a tool or a teammate at


    best.


    Taking screenshots of the unfamiliar numbers and odd contact names, I moved on to his photo gallery.


    The pictures of him with Marissa and Evan were gone, only a few photos of our children remained.


    A bitterugh escaped me as I checked his chat history. There was nothing to be found. I couldn''t find


    anything strange on his phone.


    It was clear why he was sofortable leaving his phone under his pillow. He was ready for my


    investigation.


    I returned his phone to its original ce and headed to the study.


    It had been a while since I''d been in here. Everything was as I remembered, except for one thing. His


    other phone was nowhere to be found.

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    Chapter 314


    I was left scratching my head, wondering where on earth he could''ve hidden the phone.


    Afterst time''s experience, I was certain he wouldn''t be foolish enough to leave it in his car again. So,


    where the hell did he put it?


    The phone call he received today was definitely no ordinary call. The more I was sure of it, the more I


    was itching to find that phone.


    I took a seat, patiently scanning every inch of the study. I knew that he wouldn''t be awake for a while.


    After a while, I smacked my forehead, cursing myself for being so foolish. Because it struck me that the


    room was under surveince. I quickly grabbed my own phone, found the hidden surveince app and


    opened it.


    Several camera angles appeared on my screen. I found the footage of the study, erged it, and


    scrubbed forward a bit. I saw Jan returning, pushing the door open and sinking down on the sofa,


    looking both weary and lost in thought.


    He unbuttoned his shirt as he walked towards the bookshelf, pushed a hidden button, and disappeared


    for a moment before re-emerging. He didn''t seem to have gone next door.


    When he came out, his handbag had vanished.


    I quickly got up, followed his actions to open the hidden door, but I didn''t rush inside. Instead, I


    examined the hidden door carefully.


    Sure enough, on the back of the wardrobe next door, hidden by the bookshelf on this side, was a small


    sliding door. I reached in and found his handbag!


    As I took the bag out and pushed the wardrobe open to cross over to the next room, I couldn''t see any


    sign of a hiddenpartment in the corresponding spot on the wardrobe.


    "Crafty bastard," I muttered under my breath.


    Looking around the empty room, I felt an immense difort. Once I was done dealing with this


    scumbag, I was going to move to a new ce and start afresh. Everything here reminded me of too


    many unpleasant memories, too many filthy incidents that I didn''t want to recall. Every corner was


    tainted with a dark shadow. If I stayed here any longer, I''d have nightmares.


    I pushed the wardrobe back into ce and returned to the study, eagerly unzipping the handbag to find


    the phone.


    Quickly, I unlocked the phone and checked the missed calls, looking at the corresponding time.


    Sure enough, there was a missed call. The caller ID was a single letter: A.


    My curiosity was piqued. Clutching the phone, I was tempted to call back immediately and find out who


    was on the other end. Was it a man or a woman?


    But I knew better; that would be like letting the cat out of the bag.


    Curiosity killed the cat, after all. I had to control my impulsive nature.


    I took a picture of the number and sent it to Logan without a second thought.


    To my surprise, Logan replied immediately, [What''s this about?]


    I didn''t beat around the bush, [This is the number that called Jan today at noon. It was a secret


    phone. I was right next to him and could tell he was nervous. He didn''t answer and hung up, then made


    up an excuse to leave in a hurry. Wait, there''s more.]


    After sending the message, I checked his call log. Jan had called the number back 15 minutester,


    and the callsted for one minute and thirty seconds.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    I quickly ryed this information to Logan, and he immediately said, [I''ll get someone to look into the


    registered owner of this number!]


    I sent him an OK.


    While waiting for his response, I continued to search for other clues on the phone.


    I stared at the blue icon, feeling both frustrated and helpless.


    How do I add this number to my contact? Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    I checked his profile, but it was empty!


    Just then, the phone in my hand suddenly rang...

 Chapter 315

    Chapter 315


    The sudden ring of the phone in the otherwise quiet study room was startling, almost causing me to


    drop it in surprise.


    By the time I gathered my thoughts, the ringtone had abruptly stopped.


    I strained my ears to listen to the sounds outside, everything was dead quiet! I quickly nced at the


    screen, the contact that had been shing wasbeled ''A.''


    The call only rang a few times before it was cut off.


    I was frustrated because I just missed an opportunity! I quickly ced the phone back where it was,


    and casually rummaged through his bag, but a pin-like object caught my attention.


    I reached out and picked up the pin, not much bigger than a quarter, but quite heavy. What drew my


    attention to it was the beautifully enameled flower on its surface.


    And that flower...I hurriedly pulled out the phone again, erged the profile picture of


    AzureEnchantress.


    To my surprise, the posture, the lines, the blooming state of the flower, they werepletely identical


    to the flower on the pin.


    Holding it in my hand, I admired the pin''s fine material, smooth and cool to the touch. The raised petals


    shone brightly under the light. I turned the pin over to check the back, spotting a number or perhaps a


    code, ''97.''


    Could they really be part of an organization?


    I snapped pictures of both sides of the pin. cing everything back where it was, then returned the bag


    to its hidden nook.


    Just as I was about to leave the room, my phone buzzed. It was Logan, I quickly called back, assuming


    he hung up earlier to avoid waking me.


    "Did you find anything?" I asked.


    "Yeah, but the results aren''t promising," Logan admitted.


    "What do you mean?" I pressed.


    "The registered owner of the phone is an elderly woman who passed away a year ago!" Logan''s words


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    left me chilled to the bone.


    "How can that be?" I muttered to myself. It seemed impossible to determine whether this person is


    male or female.


    "The phone received another call earlier, but it was disconnected after two rings," I informed Logan.


    "It seems necessary to continue monitoring iing calls!"


    "Then hurry up!" I urged, "I feel like we''re always one step behind."


    "Without new findings, there can be no new leads. Your discovery tonight is a new lead!" Logan


    praised.


    "Speaking of discoveries, I have another one, wait a sec, I''ll send it to you." After telling Logan, I sent


    him the photos of the pin, "I feel like this could be an organization''s insignia?"


    "I''ll have someone look into it tomorrow!" Logan said seriously, "This pin is interesting!"


    "Let me know if you find anything!" I reminded Logan, and asked, "Any news from the search team?"


    Hisment made meugh, "Oh stop it! What''s my size got to do with anything?"


    "Is it rted to Jerome?" I pursued.  Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    "What things?"


    "I''ll tell you tomorrow!" With that, he hung up.


    I held onto my phone, sensing that something was bound to happen tomorrow.

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    Chapter 316


    The next day.


    Because I had stayed upte the night before, I woke up particrlyte that morning. By the time I


    opened my eyes, it was already nine o''clock.


    After stretching out a yawn, I found that Jan was still asleep, showing no signs of waking up.


    I reached out and gave his face a light tap, and he just moved his arm slightly.


    It made me think of how I felt when I was in a deep sleep, and now he was experiencing the same


    thing.


    "Wake up, why are you still in bed? Are you feeling unwell?" I asked, pretending to be concerned, and


    pushed him slightly. He reluctantly opened his eyes, looking dazed and unfocused.


    It suddenly reminded me of how Milo looked when he identally ate my medicine. When he was


    trying to wake up, only his limbs could move at first, and then he gradually became conscious.


    "Are you feeling unwell?" I asked again.


    He grunted twice, trying hard to focus his eyes on me, his words slurred, "Hmm... I''m really tired. I think


    I''ve been too busy these past few days..."


    He turned over, lookingpletely drained, and let out a long sigh.


    Seeing his state, I snorted coldly, thinking, ''I have to make you taste this feeling, to experience the


    helplessness of not being able to wake up.''


    Wasn''t I just getting a taste of his own medicine, feeling exactly what he must have felt? Looking coldly


    at him struggling between sleep and wakefulness, wasn''t this the exact scene when he was standing


    by my bed?


    He probably never thought that he would have this day, to experience such a ''refreshing'' feeling.


    I ignored him and quickly got out of bed. I had a lot to do today and didn''t have time to watch his


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    mncholy. Not treating him to this every day was already a mercy on my part.


    After freshening up and leaving the bathroom, I nced at the loser on the bed, who was still struggling


    in a half-asleep, half-awake state.


    I went downstairs, and Hannah had already prepared breakfast.


    Seeing mee down, she nced upstairs and raised an eyebrow.


    I understood what she meant and said indifferently, "He''s still asleep. Let''s eat first!"


    Hannah seemed a bit skeptical, "Isn''t he a bit too much? It''s already thiste and he''s still sleeping?"


    I raised my eyebrows, saying, "I suffered a lot from that thing, and I wanna make him experience the


    same torment. I want him to feel it!"


    Hannah''s expression immediately brightened, "So you''re saying..."


    "Eat up. We need to head outter!" I interrupted Hannah, not letting her continue.


    Hannah immediately sat down and asked, "Where are we going?"


    As I took a bowl of oatmeal, I nced at her, "I want to visit Jerome''s ce."


    "Ah?..." Hannah looked surprised, but immediately started eating faster.


    "I want to see Cami and Fidelia Dawson."


    Hannah looked understanding and sped up her eating.


    "Actually, I want to get a closer look at Jerome. His sudden disappearance has left me feeling a bit


    surprised. I want to understand how this family of three has been living." That was my thought.


    I also wanted to understand Cami''s mindset more deeply.


    Moreover, it was time for me to break free from this vortex and move on.


    So this was a good way to get closer to them, especially since Fidelia had agreed to go to Silverdale


    City.


    After breakfast, I called Cami, who said she was out and would be back soon.


    I told Hannah, "We should leave soon!"


    Hannah looked at me, smiled knowingly and said, "To catch them by surprise?"


    Seeing me all dressed up, he asked in surprise, "Honey, are you going out? Where are you going this


    early?"


    I smiled faintly and replied, "It¡¯s not early. You woke upte today, it''s almost ten o''clock!" Co?tent §àf


    He looked startled and nced out the window in disbelief, "It''s ten o''clock already?"


    As expected, he immediately waved his hand, "I¡¯m okay. You go ahead! Be careful!"


    I replied with a nod, turned around and walked out. As I was leaving, I couldn''t help but raise an


    eyebrow and snort.

 Chapter 317

    Chapter 317


    Following Cami''s address, I easily found their home. I had to say, despite this being a home Jerome


    had swapped forter, it was already considered an old neighborhood.


    I recalled what Hannah told me two nights ago. The address where Jan used to meet with Jerome


    was in such a tranquil and elegant ce. The contrast between there and here was like heaven and


    hell.


    Jerome was really something, treating his wife and daughter like this. He was truly a model of


    heartlessness. Who could forget how Cami had fallen out with her own family? I certainly didn''t. The


    memory was still fresh in my mind.


    Hannah pulled out tworge bags of gifts from the trunk we had picked up on our way, and we started


    towards the building. I wondered if Cami knew about Jerome''s actions.


    Reaching their door, I knocked. A soft, youthful voice came from inside, clearly a young girl.


    "Who is it?"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    "Fidelia, it''s me, Aaliyah!" I responded gently.


    The sound of the door being unlocked quickly came from inside. She was clearly excited.


    The door opened, and I saw Fidelia, whom I hadn''t seen in many years.


    Honestly, the young girl looked a bit like my daughter Monique. The Dawsons all had good looks, and


    so did Fidelia. She was very pretty with shining eyes and sexy lips.


    She was taller than Monique, standing at the entrance with a shy look in her eyes, full of astonishment,


    excitement, and a hint of confusion.


    She carefully called out, "Aunt Aaliyah!"


    I smiled kindly, "Fidelia, it''s been too long!"


    I stepped forward, and she quickly stepped back to let me in, "Pleasee in, Aunt Aaliyah!"


    I took another step forward, put my arm around her shoulder, and walked in together.


    "Are you home alone?" I asked as I looked around their ce.


    The ce was quite spacious and decently decorated. Although the design was clearly a few years old,


    it was very clean and orderly. Cami had done a great job maintaining it.


    "Mom will be back soon!" Fidelia looked up at me, smiling contentedly. "Aunt Aaliyah, make yourself at


    home!"


    "Your home is so clean and cozy. Your mom is really good at keeping up!" I genuinelyplimented


    her. "What do you usually do when you''re home alone?"


    "I... do homework, read books, watch TV!" She answered cautiously.


    "Well, what keeps your mom so busy that you''re often home alone?" I asked casually, but with the


    intention of finding out more.


    "Mom has to work, delivering goods for people!" Fidelia answered promptly.


    "She¡¯s been working?" I was a bit surprised. "Where does she work?"


    In my impression, Jerome wouldn''t let Cami work, and I always felt that Cami''s personality wasn''t


    suited for work.


    In my memory, she was utterly submissive, enduring hardship withoutint.


    Even though thetter was a great virtue, her submissiveness definitely overshadowed it.


    She quickly put down her bag, started boiling water for tea, and didn''t forget to greet me, "Aaliyah! I


    never expected you toe here!"


    "Fidelia mentioned that you''re working?" I asked while looking at her. "Does Jerome... know that?"


    Her expression froze, and her mouth twitched a couple of times, "I... he has long stopped caring for


    us!" Content of Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    This answer was both expected and unexpected. Because I didn''t know to what extent Jerome had


    stopped caring.


    "He... stopped caring?" I asked doubtfully. "What do you mean?"


    Cami quickly nced at me, "It¡¯s been a long time! So... I need to work, to support my child!"


    I was somewhat shocked. I never imagined Jerome''s ''not caring'' would go as far as not providing for


    his child.


    This inevitably made me feel awkward. After all, such topics were usually embarrassing, but I still


    pressed on, "How long has it been?"

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    Chapter 318


    Upon hearing my question, Cami chuckled bitterly, "It''s been a few years now."


    She prepared some tea and told me to take a seat.


    Seeing what was on the coffee table, she quickly said, "Aaliyah, look at you, I¡¯m already so grateful that


    you visit, and you even brought all these gifts."


    "I just got some stuff for Fidelia on the way! Don''t mind it!" I said, then called out to Fidelia, "Fidelia,


    She nodded obediently, her smile radiant, "I like everything!"


    Iughed, "Well then, don''t hold back!"


    She looked over at her mother, Cami, who alsoughed, "Aren''t you going to thank your aunt?"


    Fidelia politely thanked me, her eyes full of gratitude.


    Cami told Fidelia, "Go wash some fruits for your aunt."


    I quickly pointed to the tea and said, "Fidelia, get the fruits for yourself. We will have some tea!"


    Hannah shed a smile at her, "May I see your room?"


    Fidelia immediately turned to her mother. Camiughed, "Go ahead!"


    Once they''d left for the room, I looked around, "This is a nice house. When did you move? I had no


    idea!"


    "Well, it was probably when you were sick. It''s been a few years!" Cami agreed, also ncing


    around, "We used to live in the house you helped us buy, we should have thanked you a lot sooner."


    "Please, no need for formalities," I brushed it off, "That''s just how the Dawsons are. You and Jerome,


    are you..."


    "We''re not divorced!" Cami interrupted, as if she knew what I was going to ask, "But he''s rarely


    home."


    "He doesn''t take care of you and Fidelia?" I probed.


    "Rarely."


    I wasn''t sure what she meant by ''rarely''.


    "Ever since we moved here, he''s barely been home. Even when he doese back, he doesn''t stay


    the night. Just leaves some money and goes." Cami''s voice was barely a whisper, her hands


    inteced and fidgeting, a clear sign of her inner turmoil.


    "Isn''t he busy with Jan at thepany? Maybe Jan isn''t paying him enough. I''ll ask him," I


    feigned ignorance, "If he''s noting home, where does he go?"


    "Oh..." Cami chuckled bitterly again, "I wouldn''t dare to ask. He can do whatever he wants."


    Cami''s words echoed hopelessness and despair.


    "You''re just too naive. You gave up everything for him..." I stopped mid-sentence, as if I''d said


    something wrong.


    She smiled at me dismissively, "It doesn''t matter anymore, it''s been so long that I''ve almost forgotten I


    have a husband."


    I patted her arm, unable to find any words to say.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "If anyone is to me for all this, it''s not Jerome. It''s my mother who was too much." Cami began,


    which surprised me.


    "Why would you say that?" I asked, confused.


    Cami wore a bitter smile, still bitter.


    "I have to ask... back then, did you... did you marry Jerome because you were pregnant?" I asked


    gently, afraid to hurt Cami''s feelings.


    "Otherwise?" She hung her head, looking like a victim, "Back then, it was a big deal for my family. And I


    was the only one who knew I was pregnant. I had already had an abortion once and no one knew. I


    didn''t dare to do it again. Jerome is stubborn and no one can control him. If I didn''t follow him, where


    would I go?" Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    She was telling the truth, but I was also impressed by Cami''s courage. To have an abortion in secret,


    that took guts.


    "Do you know what he''s doing out there?" I asked bluntly.

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    Chapter 319


    Tension flickered in her eyes as she heard my question. She cast a nervous nce at me and


    hesitantly admitted, "I did ask once, but he blew up, saying it was none of my business. So I didn''t dare


    to ask again."


    "Why are you so afraid of him?" I chuckled, looking at Cami. "As his wife, isn''t it natural for you to


    ask?"


    "Well... it''s not that I''m afraid of him exactly. I just feel that he is a grown man, and he should know his


    boundaries for what he does. Too many questions could lead to disputes, and I''d be the one to suffer."


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    "Has he... everid a hand on you?" I ventured to ask.


    She was quick to deny, "No, never! He may be a bit stubborn at times, but he never hit me."


    After saying this, Cami looked at me with a hint of suspicion. "Did something happen to him?"


    I hastily denied, "No, I was just asking out of curiosity."


    "Oh..." she responded with an awkwardugh. "He''s a free spirit, always doing as he pleases. No one


    can really control him, not even his own parents."


    I nodded in agreement. For a daughter-inw in the Dawson family, this was amon topic.


    "Speaking of which, Jan is no better!" I said, trying to create a bond with her.


    "But he''s much better than his older brother. He treats you well and is dutiful to his parents," Cami


    praised.


    Hearing her admiration, I couldn''t help but wonder. Considering their collusion, could she really be


    oblivious to their schemes?


    Treating me well? He was treating all women well except for me. He was always putting on airs of


    elegance and aloofness, yet easily surrendering at the sight of a woman.


    I decided to probe her a bit, "Both of them have their issues. I knew about Jan''s before I got sick, but


    now... Who knows? Did you hear about the incident that happened a while ago?"


    Cami seemed taken aback and then earnestly asked, "What? What incident? I really don''t know!"


    Afraid I might not believe her, she quickly added, "Aaliyah, you have to understand, although we''re still


    technically married, it feels like we''re only bound by thew. I bet most people outside don''t even know


    he has a wife. And certainly, nobody knows that I am his wife."


    "That can''t be true!" Iughed.


    "But it is!" she sighed. "I''m not lying. For years, he rarely takes care of me and Fidelia. Even in this very


    building, not many people know him!


    If it weren''t for his asional visits, I wouldn''t even feel connected to the Dawson family. Except for


    you, no one in the Dawson family pays any attention to us!"


    This caught her interest, and she asked, "What happened?"


    "How did you find out?"


    "I was feeling a bit better and missed Probert, so I went to pick him up from school. That''s when I saw


    it," I admitted. "So I brought Probert back home. His grandmother caused quite a scene because of


    that. I wish they would just leave us alone!"


    I shook my head, a bitter smile on my face.


    Cami was shocked by my story, "That actually happened?"

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    Chapter 320


    My words seemed to put her at ease and she refilled my tea cup with a warm smile.


    "You''re right," she agreed, "Being away from that mother-inw of mine is definitely a cause for


    celebration! Not having a family to answer to does have its perks, less worries and more peace. My


    family is nothingpared to yours. I¡¯m just grateful that Jerome has been there to stand up for me, or


    else they would have made my life miserable!¡±


    ¡°They''ve been giving you trouble?¡± I asked, surprised.


    ¡°Yes. My brother used toe around asking for money all the time. If I refused, my mother would start


    yelling and throwing fits. But then one time Jerome caught him in the act and gave him a good


    thrashing. Since then, they¡¯ve been keeping their distance.¡±


    ¡°Seriously?¡±


    She nodded andughed, ¡°I can''t rely on them, and they can''t rely on me. It''s a good arrangement! The


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    only one I feel bad for is Fidelia. Other children have loving grandparents, but poor Fidelia has neither a


    doting grandmother nor a caring uncle!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that,¡± I reassured her, ¡°I¡¯ll be there for her. We may be outsiders to others, but we


    have to look out for each other.¡±


    Cami smiled, ¡°Thank you, Aaliyah! You''re the only one who''s been so good to us. It''sforting to


    know that we do have someone to rely on.¡±


    ¡°What if Jerome doesn¡¯t approve of our closeness?¡± I asked tentatively.


    It was a practical concern. In the past, Jerome might have discouraged Cami from getting too close


    to me.


    After a moment of consideration, Cami assured me, ¡°I don¡¯t think he will mind. Besides, he barely


    does daily, or if she has any friends.¡±


    ¡°How often does hee home?¡± I asked, deciding to dive straight into the matter.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s hard to say. Sometimes it''s every two weeks, sometimes a few months, and sometimes he


    doesn''te home for a whole year. I wonder if he even considers this as his home anymore,¡± Cami


    replied with a hint of sadness.


    ¡°That''s quite tough. But you mentioned he gives you some money?¡±


    I was curious. Jerome must have money, considering what he took from Medsafe Liyah Inc. I couldn''t


    believe he would spend it all.


    ¡°Yes, he leaves some money whenever hees home. But it''s barely enough for us to get by for a


    few months,¡± Cami admitted.


    I couldn¡¯t understand why Cami would put up with such a marriage.


    ¡°So, what kind of job are you doing now?¡± I asked, eager to know more.


    ¡°I''m a delivery person for a hospital. I run errands for a pharmaceuticalpany and earn a bit,¡± she


    said, at which point I immediately thought of Irving.


    ¡°Is it Elixir Pharma Limited?¡± I asked.


    Cami shook her head, ¡°No, it''s Protea Medicals.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± I responded. I knew Protea Medicals was a smallpany.


    ¡°But it has its perks. I have a flexible schedule, which allows me to take care of Fidelia,¡± she said,


    sounding content.


    ¡°So, you must be familiar with all the hospitals?¡± I asked. Re?d at Dr?m§Ñ?§àv§Öls

 Chapter 321

    Chapter 321


    Pondering the situation, I decided to probe a little. ¡°Oh...st time I saw you at the hospital, you


    mentioned a stomach-ache. Feeling any better?¡±


    She nced at me, and I continued with a calm voice, ¡°You¡¯ve got to take care of yourself, you know.


    Can¡¯t be neglecting your health, especially with your girl depending on you!¡± I made myself sound


    thoughtful.


    She nodded at me. ¡°Much better, thank you. Sometimes, I just miss meals, and that upsets my


    stomach. That day, I was just picking up test results. It was gastritis, but nothing serious.¡±


    She repeated herself, almost as if she needed to confirm she was indeed there for test results.


    However, I had my doubts. I had seen her at the gastroenterology department and couldn¡¯t shake the


    feeling that there was more to her story.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Nonchntly, I told Cami, ¡°Next time you need anything, just give me a ring. I¡¯m not in the best of


    health myself, can¡¯t work, so I¡¯m free most of the time. Whether it¡¯s picking something up for you or


    watching the kids, I can do that.


    I mean, regardless of what Jerome thinks, I¡¯m different from him. We should stick together, keep each


    other warm. Truth be told, here in Goldenvale Town, I don¡¯t have any other kin. We¡¯re closer than


    strangers, after all.¡±


    My words were as sincere as they wereforting. Deep down, I truly felt for Cami.


    She immediately nodded in gratitude. ¡°You''ve been the one looking after us. What have I ever done for


    you?¡±


    ¡°Well, this isn¡¯t right, he¡¯s always away, not caring for you and your daughter. Haven¡¯t you thought


    about divorce?¡± I blurted out, figuring there was no point beating around the bush.


    Cami fell silent for a moment, then gave a wry smile. ¡°I never considered it, because it doesn¡¯t seem


    to make much difference. Better to keep things as they are. He¡¯s still Fidelia¡¯s father. He steps in when


    absolutely necessary. If we divorced, he¡¯d bepletely out of the picture.¡±


    Her honesty struck a chord. From her perspective, it was her powerless way of holding on to Jerome,


    definitely food for thought.


    I pressed on, ¡°So, if you call him, hees back?¡±


    Sheughed a bit. ¡°I suppose! I¡¯ve never actually called.¡±


    Fidelia and Hannah seemed to be getting along well, noting out of their room at all. This house¡¯s


    structure is unique, with rooms tucked away out of sight from the living area.


    I sighed. ¡°You¡¯re far too tolerant, putting up with so much from him. I couldn''t do it. I''d have to know


    where he¡¯s been if he didn¡¯te home.¡±


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t your husband done the same?¡± Cami inquired, looking at me.


    ¡°Not before I got sick. After... who knows? That¡¯s why there was such amotion a while back, and


    why I moved back to my parents¡¯ ce!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s nice, having a family home to return to. Besides, your folks are well-off!¡± sheplimented.


    ¡°You have a strong support.¡±


    Just then, my phone rang. I quickly rummaged through my purse, found my phone, and saw it was


    Dalton calling.


    Upon hearing Dalton¡¯s words, I quickly replied, ¡°Of course. When can Ie by?¡± Read at


    Dalton paused to think. ¡°You cane by this afternoon. Just give me a call beforehand.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be there this afternoon.¡±

 Chapter 322

    Chapter 322


    Hannah''s eyes had done the talking; her reconnaissance wasplete.


    So, I rose to my feet and turned to Cami, "Cami, could you help Fidelia to pack her school stuff? I''ll


    likely swing by to pick her up the day after tomorrow. Just leave her in my hands ¨C you''ve got nothing to


    worry about. And hey, if you''ve got some free time, I''d love for you toe down to Silverdale City.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    We''ve got plenty of room at our ce!"


    "Thanks a bunch! I''d love to, actually, but with work and all... it''s like a habit now; gotta keep at it!"


    Cami gripped my arm, her face a picture of regret. "Let Fidelia head down first. This means a lot, you


    know, having her stay with Monique. It''sforting to know she haspany."


    "Trust me, they''ll have a good time in Silverdale City ¨C it''s gonna be fine. Plus, my folks are thrilled


    about Fidelia''s visit!" I chatted away as I made my way to the door. "If you weren''t so tied up with work,


    you could see for yourself... Oh, by the way, does Jerome know about your job?"


    "Not sure, he doesn''t really care much about that stuff," Cami responded with an awkward chuckle.


    "Well, go to visit Silverdale City when you¡¯re avable!" I said cheerfully. "I should head out now. Just


    wanted to drop by and give you the heads-up."


    I made it clear I was just passing through, not making a special trip.


    "Why don''t you guys stay for lunch before you go?" Cami held on to me. "I''ll cook something quick!"


    "Next time, I''ve got errands to run today ¨C don¡¯t have the time, I''m afraid!"


    Hannah and I bid farewell, with Cami seeing us out to the bottom of the stairs.


    We''d left the neighborhood when Hannah asked, "So, where to now?"


    I pondered our schedule. "Let''s grab a bite to eat first, then we''ve got to make a trip to the police station


    this afternoon. They''ve found the body of that kid."


    Hannah''s face grew solemn as she murmured, "So they''ve found it... You cling to hope when that boy


    was missing, but now there''s not a sliver left."


    I said nothing. Sensing my gloom, Hannah quickly changed the subject. "I took a peek in Jerome and


    Cami''s bedroom. Looks like he hasn''t been home in ages, and there''s no sign of a man''s touch on


    any of the household items. I subtly asked Fidelia, and she imed she didn¡¯t know where her father


    was; said it''s been ages since shest saw Jerome. Seems like Cami''s telling the truth."


    Hannah nced at me as she spoke, and I nodded, adding, "I''ve been thinking, maybe Jerome left


    them on purpose? Their kitchen''s pretty well-equipped, all good brand¨C doesn''t seem like they''re


    strapped for cash."


    "You''re spot on. I checked out their bedding, and it''s all high-quality. Even Fidelia''s backpack is


    designer."


    "Help me dig into her earnings on the side. She mentioned she works at Protea Medicals. They''re no


    Irving giants, but they do produce cutting-edge meds," I instructed Hannah.


    Cami, as a sister-inw, had always intrigued me. Despite the Dawson family''s attitude or how


    harshly they treated her, she carried herself with a peaceful detachment that I couldn''t fathom, yet she


    made it look effortless.


    "We should also find out where she''s delivering goods," I added.


    "Will do!" Hannah replied, then asked, "What do you feel like eating?"


    Hannah beamed, her little canines sparkling, "Then I''ve got just the spot for you!" Re§Ñd at


    After hanging up, she looked at me, "Looks like lunch is going to have to wait."

 Chapter 323

    Chapter 323


    She checked her surroundings and pulled off a smooth U-turn, revving the engine.


    "What''s going on?" I asked, my suspicion tinged with curiosity.


    "Zora''s stirring the pot!" Hannah said curtly.


    "Oh?" I raised an eyebrow, "What''s she up to now?"


    "The realtor called. Someone wants to view the house, but Zora''s causing a scene, iming it''s hers,


    and she''s giving the realtor a hard time!" Hannah scoffed with disdain. "She''s just asking for trouble!"


    "Let''s head back home!" I instructed Hannah with a dismissive wave, "If there''s a mess, we''ll clean it up


    for good."


    Hannah looked puzzled, ncing my way.


    I spoke with calm authority, "Today, I''m ending this nuisance for good. She''s going to give up on that


    thought, once and for all. Trust me!"


    Hannah gave me a thumbs-up and floored the elerator.


    Returning home, I didn''t expect to find Jan Dawson sprawled on the couch like a starfish, he looked


    utterly disheveled.


    He perked up at the sound of the door, and upon seeing me enter, he bolted upright. "You''re back


    already? What time is it?"


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    I shot him a nce, "Didn''t you go to the office?"


    Scrambling to his feet, he tried to look presentable. "I will, I will... Just wanted a quick nap!"


    I stopped him sharply, my tone edged, "Might as well keep sleeping! It''s 11:45 AM, nearly lunch break.


    Why bother going to the office now?"


    He paused, confused, "Is it past 11 already?"


    He hurried up the stairs after me, mumbling, "I don''t know what''s up today, I feel so tired, dizzy.


    Couldn''t wake up, felt awful all over!"


    "Then sleep. Get some proper rest," I said, though honestly.


    But to Jan, my words carried an underlying message. He was quick to protest, "No need for sleep,


    I¡¯ve got loads to do!"


    I suddenly stopped, and he, unprepared, bumped into me, nearly knocking me off bnce.


    Stabilizing myself, I asked irritably, "Can''t you watch where you''re going?"


    He shook his head,ing to his senses, and looked at me, "Babe, you alright?"


    I frowned at him, "I¡¯m fine. Since you''re here, get ready ande with me."


    Jan, puzzled, asked, "Where to?"


    "Just get ready. You''ll find out soon enough," I said, heading back to my room to gather the things I


    needed into my bag.


    Turning back, I found Jan still standing there, looking utterly befuddled.


    "What are you waiting for? Hurry up, we''re on a clock!" I said and walked out, "Ten minutes, I''ll wait for


    you downstairs!"


    Seeing my determined exit, he finally nodded and went to the bathroom.


    As I got into the car, Hannah was ready to start it, but I stopped her, "Wait, Jan ising with us."


    "He''s... still at home?" Hannah was surprised.


    Hannah nced towards the house, muttering with schadenfreude, "He¡¯s finally tasting his own


    medicine, huh?"


    "Roger that!"


    Soon enough, Jan emerged, looking neat and more alert after his shower, though he still yawned


    continuously.


    "Let''s go then!" I said, and we set off with Hannah driving. Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    Jan''s car followed closely behind.


    I addressed him with a cold tone, "Let''s go."


    The three of us went up together, and as soon as the elevator doors opened, Zora''s shrill voice could


    be heard...


    Stepping out, we were met with a scene that was shockingly intense.

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    Chapter 324


    Outside the house, the scene was a whirlwind of activity. Neighbors, attracted by themotion, had


    spilled out of their homes, leaving themon area as packed as a subway car during rush hour.


    Standing defiantly at the wide-open doorway, with a spin mop clutched in her hand, was Zora. Her


    voice boomed with indignant rage, "Over my dead body will you sell this house! Who the heck do you


    think you are?"


    She was decked out in a loud, form-fitting floral dress, her hair done up in a messy beehive that


    seemed to defy gravity. She must''ve skipped her morning makeup routine because her bare face


    shocked me, almost making me puke.


    Her skin, usually covered in foundation, was now peppered with blemishes, just like a warty toad that


    had just hopped out of a fairy tale.


    The moment she caught sight of Jan stepping out of the elevator, her instincts kicked in and she


    spun, about to dash back inside. But, remembering the prospective buyers at the door, she abruptly


    halted.


    After a long moment with her back to us, she slowly turned around, fixing her gaze on Jan with eyes


    that seemed to plead for mercy. Her lips twitched as she struggled to speak, "You... what are you doing


    here?"


    Jan''s expression was stormy, his eyes as piercing and cold as a hawk''s.


    Behind Zora, ra was nonchntly eating a big, juicy apple. She watched the drama unfold with a


    smirk. As we approached, she straightened up and vanished inside the house.


    "Jan!" Zora''s voice took on a sickly-sweet tone, her eyes seeking sympathy.


    The real estate agent, spotting Hannah as the person in charge, rushed over as if she were a lifeline.


    "Ms. Hannah, thank goodness you''re here! This property has generated a lot of interest since it was


    listed. I''ve brought this gentleman to view the house, and he''s ready to pay cash. But thisdy," he


    gestured at Zora, "I don''t know how she got in. She''s been nothing but trouble, iming the house is


    hers and beingpletely rude!"


    Hannah, sharp as ever, gestured respectfully towards Jan, "Oakley, this gentleman is my boss, Mr.


    Dawson. He''s the one who asked me to handle the sale."


    Oakley immediately caught on and turned to Jan with utmost respect. "Mr. Dawson, don¡¯t get me


    wrong, but do you indeed intend to sell this property?"


    Before Zora could reach out to grab Jan, he stepped back, his gaze icy. With a single word, he


    made his intentions clear, "Yes!"


    I couldn''t help but smirk at Zora''s dumbstruck expression.


    Hearing Jan''s confirmation, Zora''s face twisted into an ugly snarl. "Jan, you promised me this


    house was mine! How can you go back on your word? Why would you sell it?"


    Jan''sugh was cold as he retorted, "A nanny who doesn''t know her ce andys a hand on the


    you have the audacity to im this house? My wife may be kind-hearted, but don''t mistake my patience


    for weakness."


    His words reverberated through the crowd, drawing looks of disdain and a chorus of disapproving


    murmurs. It was a verbal p across Zora''s face.


    Zora, eyes zing with fury, tried to retaliate, "You... Jan, don''t forget¡ª" But Jan cut her off with a


    snarl, "Forget what?"


    Zora shuddered under his intense re. For a moment, Jan''s expression was chilling, and I had


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    never seen such a deadly look in his eyes before.


    Watching Zora closely, I noticed a flicker of fear in her eyes as she stepped back.


    Swallowing hard, her eyes still showed panic mixed with defiance, "What... what are you nning to


    do?"


    Jan''s gaze remained unyielding as he finally spat out a singlemand, "Leave!"


    Suddenly, Zora''s face contorted into a bizarre expression of madness. "Don''t even think about it! I won''t


    go!"

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    Chapter 325


    With a series of smooth moves, Zora had everyone in the vicinity utterly bbergasted.


    They stared at each other, their eyes wide with disbelief, unsure of how to react to the spectacle before


    them.


    Then, someone murmured under their breath, ¡°Holy smokes, that woman''s fierce! she is basically


    robbing them. She doesn''t even own the house, yet she''s acting like the owner!¡±


    Once someone broke the silence, others chimed in. Those who had been peeking out from behind their


    doors, now stepped out fully, eager to join the fray and witness themotion.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, we can¡¯t touch her now. If she won¡¯t open the door, what can you do?¡±


    ¡°That woman¡¯s tough as nails, got the guts to swoop right into someone else¡¯s house!¡±


    ¡°Maybe she¡¯s got a good reason to stand her ground, otherwise why would she dare risk it?¡±


    The crowd¡¯s murmurs grew nastier by the second, and I watched Jan closely, curious about his next


    move. If he just stood there, letting Zora p him in the face, I could step inter.


    Someone added fuel to the fire, ¡°We should call the cops! If this gentleman says she¡¯s just a nanny and


    she¡¯s trying to harm them, then let¡¯s involve the police! A nanny refusing to leave the property? That¡¯s


    just bizarre.¡±


    ¡°Exactly, why wait here? To call or not to call, I can do it for you.¡± This person was clearly not afraid of


    escting the situation. They even pulled out a phone, looking expectantly at Jan for the go-ahead.


    Jan¡¯s face was turning livid with rage. He had been in a foul mood since morning, and it seemed he


    hadn''t had a chance to let off steam yet.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Hearing the crowd¡¯s instigations, it seemed likely he was about to unleash all his pent-up anger on


    Zora.


    I was biding my time, waiting for this moment.


    I wanted Jan to be the one to tear Zora apart, to show her that she was misreading his intentions,


    thinking he still had tender feelings for her. Only using Jan to go against her would she learn.


    Jan shot a severe look at the real estate agent Oakley and demanded, ¡°Do you have a locksmith on


    call? Bring them here!¡±


    I thought to myself, not a bad move. It would avoid dealing with the cops and still get the door open to


    confront Zora.


    Oakley, hearing Jan¡¯smand, lit up and responded, ¡°You bet! We got people for that.¡±


    He quickly dialed a number and soon after, the locksmith hurried out of the elevator.


    But upon seeing the crowd in the hallway, the locksmith looked confused, ncing around before


    cautiously asking Oakley, ¡°What¡¯s the situation here?¡±


    Oakley didn¡¯t answer but instead told Jan, ¡°Mr. Dawson, this is the locksmith.¡±


    The locksmith nodded deferentially to Jan and asked timidly, ¡°Sir, which door do you need open?¡±


    Zora must have heard themotion outside because she suddenly roared from within, ¡°I dare anyone


    to try and open it!¡±


    The locksmith jumped at her voice, took a step back, and looked to Jan, asking cautiously,


    ¡°What¡¯s¡­ what¡¯s this about? If someone¡¯s in there, should we be opening the door?¡±


    Then, turning to Oakley, the locksmith said, ¡°Is this a joke?¡±  Dra§Þanovels.c§àm


    Oakley¡¯s face darkened, and he snapped at the locksmith, ¡°Shut up and get to work.¡±

 Chapter 326

    Chapter 326


    The locksmith eyed Jan warily, his voice quivering with trepidation, ¡°Excuse me, sir, might I ask if


    you have the deed to this house? You im it¡¯s yours, so you¡¯ll need to show me the deed. Once I see


    it, even if there¡¯s trouble inside, I¡¯ll get this door open for you!¡±


    Jan¡¯s brow furrowed as he shot the locksmith a frigid re, a spark of anger in his eyes.


    I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle in relief secretly. Lucky for me, I was prepared.


    Without a word, I rummaged through my bag and produced the deed to the house. Flipping it open for


    the locksmith to see, I said, ¡°Here¡¯s his house deed, and I¡¯m his wife!¡±


    The onlookers crowded in to glimpse the document before I snapped it shut with a decisive flick.


    Turning to the locksmith, I said sweetly, ¡°Go on, open it. Don¡¯t worry about what¡¯s inside; that¡¯s not on


    you.¡±


    Oakley nodded eagerly, smiling, ¡°Ah, that¡¯s great! Mydy, you¡¯re so considerate! We¡¯d have been at a


    loss without that document!¡±


    The crowd murmured with surprise, clearly none had anticipated that I would carry the deed on me.


    ¡°Wow, talk about being prepared! There¡¯s gonna be more drama!¡±


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Hannah shot me an approving nce and stealthily gave me a thumbs-up.


    I allowed myself a sly smile, thinking that these little schemes were child¡¯s y. I knew that without


    solid evidence, there was no way to rify the situation with Zora.


    I had to clear her out thoroughly, to end any future trouble she might cause. No way was sheing


    back here.


    This shameless bitch even imed that this house was hers. Today, I''ll make it clear whose house it


    really is.


    Involving the cops wouldn''t happen until a situation deemed it absolutely crucial. Because Zora hadn¡¯t


    yet tasted true misery, and I wasn¡¯t about to let her off the hook so easily. Prison would be too kind for


    her!


    Not to mention the way she''d treated Evan, I wasn¡¯t about to let her off until I got to the bottom of it.


    This vengeance, I would im for Evan!


    Seeing the deed, the locksmith hesitated briefly, probably wanting to check Jan¡¯s ID. But one look at


    Jan¡¯s thunderous expression and he swallowed his questions, getting to work without another word.


    Inside, Zora¡¯s panicked protests were to no avail. In less than ten minutes, the lock was picked, and the


    locksmith pulled the door open.


    Jan stormed in, only to find the dining table barricaded against the door by Zora.


    Blinded by fury, Jan kicked the solid oak table with such force that it splintered on impact, his anger


    seemingly channeled into that single blow.


    Zora and ra went scared as they turned to face the lion-like wrath of Jan.


    I followed him inside, and ra shrank back at my approach.


    ¡°You have ten minutes to pack your stuff and get out,¡± Jan barked at Zora, issuing his ultimatum.


    Zora, her face ashen, shot a nce past Jan to me, then back at him, ¡°You¡¯ll regret this!¡± Content of


    Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    ¡°Out!¡± he roared.

 Chapter 327

    Chapter 327


    Before long, he scampered up to me, grinning from ear to ear, announcing that the gentleman had


    decided to buy the ce outright.


    I caught Hannah''s eye and said with finality, "Let''s get the paperwork done!"


    With a snap of her fingers, Hannah eximed, "You got it!"


    At that moment, Zora was the picture of defeat, leaning helplessly against the wall, her eyes burning


    with resentment, ring at me unblinkingly.


    Seeing no chance for a turnaround, ra walked into one of the rooms, packed a small suitcase with


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    swift efficiency, and strutted out with a decisiveness that betrayed no second thoughts.


    Seeing this, Zora was even more vexed. After a tense standoff, she eventually turned and went


    upstairs, stuffed her belongings into tworge suitcases. Under the watchful eyes of the onlookers, she


    dragged her luggage out, her face a mask of sorrow and anger.


    As she passed by me, she stopped, looked at me, and suddenly shed a discordant smile, whispering


    with malice, "Just you wait! I''ve got a surprise for you that''ll knock your socks off!"


    With a wicked chuckle, she sashayed out the door, this time without giving Jan a second nce.


    Jan stepped up beside me, eyes downcast, inquiring softly, "What did she say to you?"


    I looked away, feigning ignorance, "Nothing at all!"


    "She''s crazy. Don''t mind her words or take them to heart," Jan said, scrutinizing my expression for


    reassurance.


    "And what do you think she could possibly say?" I asked pointedly.


    A gut feeling told me that Zora''s ''surprise'' definitely involved Jan. There had to be secrets between


    them that I was yet to uncover.


    The drama ended with me sessfully selling the house. The paperwork went smoothly, and the


    buyers, knowing they got a sweet deal, were more than amodating.


    It just goes to show, money talks. The whole process didn''t even take an hour.


    Hannah handed me a card, and as I took it, I asked her contentedly, "Are you hungry? Let''s go grab


    some lunch!"


    Jan looked at me eagerly and chimed in, "Mind if I join you guys?"


    I had intended to treat Hannah, but with Jan tagging along, we had to settle for a quick bite.


    Near the end of the meal, Jan asked, "Babe, do you have anythingter? How about swinging by


    the office with me?"


    I knew instantly that he was trying to divert attention from what Zora had said earlier.


    Suddenly, an idea struck me, and I smiled faintly at him, "Actually, I need to head to the police station.


    They''ve found that poor kid''s body. Care to join me?"


    As I spoke, I saw Jan''s grip on his fork tightening.


    I added deliberately, "After all, he called you ''Dad'' for years. Don''t you think you should see him one


    right?"


    Jan didn''t argue but didn''tmit to going either, silently taking a few more bites before putting


    down his fork. Before he could speak, I cut him off, "You should go. It won''t do you any harm."


    He looked at me, then after a moment, nodded, "Okay."


    "Let''s settle up and head out," I instructed him.


    Jan got up to pay the bill.


    Hannah and I exchanged a knowing look, our eyebrows arching in silent agreement. Content of


    Dra§Þ??ovels


    This time, I was riding in Jan''s car.


    He drove in silence, hands gripping the steering wheel tightly.

 Chapter 328

    Chapter 328


    Jan hesitated, his face unusually pale, betraying the inner turmoil he was trying to quell.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle. "What''s the matter? You''vee all this way, only to chicken out? Don''t you


    want to go in?"


    Perhaps it was my smile that emboldened him, as he turned to me, "Allie, I... I''d rather not go in. I''m not


    feeling well!"


    "Is it that you''re not feeling well, or are you just scared? Or maybe it''s guilt?" I didn''t hold back,


    speaking bluntly, "I thought you liked him?"


    His eyes widened with incredulity, retorting, "Since when did I like him?"


    I smirked teasingly, my gaze heavy with implication, "Jan, really? Do you want to say that here? He¡¯s


    just inside. Don''t lie about the dead; it''s bad karma."


    His face drained of color, a clear sign of fear, and he tried to deflect, "I''m speaking the truth!"


    "The truth? You seemed pretty happy when you were taking him out for pics, the picture of doting


    fatherhood. You never showed that kind of dedication to Probert."


    Jan ''s face turned a shade greener, disbelief etched across his features, "You..."


    "Surprised I know? Well, if you don''t want anyone to find out, don''t do it!" I said, pulling open the car


    door with a still-smiling face, "This is hisst journey. You should see it through to the end."


    I got out first, and he remained indecisive.


    "Come on! Even if it''s all an act, you''ve got to take a bow at the end, otherwise, it looks pretty bad!" I


    finished, mming the car door with a ''bang''.


    A minuteter, he got out of the car reluctantly .


    Dalton seemed surprised to see us there, probably hadn''t expected Jan to show up.


    But his shock was fleeting, and he greeted me with a cool detachment, ignoring Janpletely.


    He then led us into a room where, along the wall, were several of those freezer drawers you see in


    crime shows.


    Although I was prepared, stepping into that room stirred aplex whirl of emotions inside me ¡ª


    sorrow, regret, annoyance, anxiety, and a touch of fear. I wanted to flee.


    Dalton nced at me and asked, "Ready?"


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I nced at Jan, who was slouching behind me, utterly useless.


    I couldn''t guess what he was feeling at that moment.


    Dalton shot Jan a look of undisguised disdain. As the police chief, he was all too aware of Jan ''s


    character, so his attitude made perfect sense to me.


    He signaled to a staff member, who then pulled out one of the drawer freezers and stepped aside.


    Dalton looked at me, waiting for my reaction.


    Hesitantly, and swallowing nervously to mask my anxiety, I forced myself to move forward,pelling


    my shaky legs to walk up to the freezer.


    Hannah''s presence beside me gave me strength.


    Behind me, I heard Dalton coldly ask, "Aren''t youing to take a look, Mr. Dawson?"


    I turned to see Jan still at the doorway, showing no intention ofing in.


    With a silent scoff, I fixed a stern look on him, and he finally stepped forward, reluctantly and passively


    following me, kept himself behind me.


    Now, his face was etched with barely concealed impatience, disgust, and resentment. Co?tent of


    Dr?manov§Öls


    I couldn''t help thinking he was here only out of a sense of moral obligation.


    I nodded, feeling a surge of determination as I stood there, "No matter how horrifying he looks, I need


    to see him. To let him know I came."

 Chapter 329

    Chapter 329


    As the white cloth was lifted, a chill breezeced with frost spread out, revealing Evan''s face.


    Despite Dalton having said he''d tidied up, the sight was still shockingly grim.


    The face thaty before me no longer bore the sweet features of little Evan. It was pallid, a haunting


    pale, with lips tinged a dark purple. Large patches of his delicate skin were damaged, and after being


    submerged for so long, his features were distorted in a macabre disy...


    Suddenly, behind me, came the uncontroble retching of Jan, followed by the sound of hurried


    footsteps escaping the scene.


    I didn''t turn around or flinch; I calmly observed Evan''s face, trying to recall his once bright and innocent


    expression.


    I even surprised myself with the courage to reach out and gently stroke his now eerily dark hair.


    Then I whispered softly, "Evan, don''t be scared! I¡¯m here now, though I''mte. I''m so sorry I couldn''t


    bring you home."


    His hair was cold to the touch, with a dusting of frost.


    My heart was in turmoil, but it wasn''t fear that I felt; it was a deep, bone-chilling sorrow.


    Yet, I didn''t shed another tear.


    I reached for his little hand next; it was icy and stiff. It wasn¡¯t the soft, chubby hand I once held. Still, I


    squeezed it gently, "Evan, the officers worked so hard to find you, to bring you out of that dark, damp


    ce. You don''t have to suffer anymore. Now you can be with your mom, never to be parted again.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    There are no bad guys in heaven!" I murmured to him, "You have to be happy from now on. And in your


    next life, make sure to pick a reliable set of parents!"


    Hey there, so small, with frost rising from his body.


    I saw his legs were covered in wounds, turned ck from the cold, and on his feet, only one shoe!


    I turned to Dalton and asked, "Dalton, can I make a request? Could you bring me his other shoe so I


    can put it on him?"


    Dalton looked at me, with aplexity of emotions in his eyes, but he eventually nodded to a worker,


    "Get the shoe from evidence!"


    The worker left and soon returned with the shoe, handing it to me.


    I took it, lifted Evan''s cold, rigid little foot, and fitted the shoe, securing the strap. I adjusted his feet so


    theyy together, and nodded in satisfaction, "That''s better. Evan can''t walk barefoot!"


    I stood by his side once more, whispering, "Sweetheart, rest in peace. Don''t look back; in the next life,


    you must find happiness."


    With onest nce at his face, which in my eyes was now clean and smiling back at me, chubby and


    adorable, I pulled the sheet down gently, covering his body. Then I turned and walked away, not looking


    back.


    Outside, the sun was shining brightly, a stark contrast to the cold gloom within, as if it were a different


    world.


    Jan was pale, slumped against the wall, his expression one of utter shock.


    His face, beaten down by fear and dread, was under the strong sunlight, beads of sweat glistening on


    his forehead.


    I replied indifferently, "You can wait in the car. Or, if you''re busy, go ahead. I still need to speak with


    Dalton." Re§Ñd at Dramanov§Öls


    Ignoring his puzzled look, I turned back to Dalton.

 Chapter 330

    Chapter 330


    ¡°Dalton, when can wey Evan to rest?¡± I asked, my gaze locked onto Dalton¡¯s weary face.


    ¡°Probably need more time,¡± Dalton didn¡¯t beat around the bush, ¡°The case is still wide open.¡±


    I nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. ¡°Just give me a heads-up when it¡¯s possible,


    alright? I want to arrange a proper burial for him. He trusted me to save him, and I couldn''t... but I can


    at least ensure he finds peace.¡±


    Detective Dalton¡¯s eyes, once filled with skepticism, now held a genuine respect. His tone softened as


    he spoke to me, an acknowledgment that he¡¯d seen my efforts.


    ¡°I will, I promise. And thanks, on behalf of the kid.¡±


    ¡°No thanks needed,¡± I muttered, my eyes cast downward in sorrow. ¡°I failed him. All I can do now is


    honor the bond we had.¡±


    My voice trembled, and I took a deep breath to fight back the tears threatening to fall. It was the first


    time I¡¯d allowed myself to cry that day.


    ¡°You¡¯re not the only one to me. We all have a part in this ¨C we couldn''t save him in time. That¡¯s on


    us,¡± Dalton said, his sincerity clear.


    I nced at him and felt a weight lift from my shoulders. Despite my grievances, it meant a lot to hear


    him acknowledge their part in this tragedy.


    ¡°Speaking of which, Dalton, am I free to leave Goldenvale now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re clear to go,¡± he confirmed without hesitation.


    Jan, who¡¯d been standing silently beside me, shifted ufortably.


    ¡°I¡¯ve got to head back to Silverdale. You can reach me anytime,¡± I informed him of my ns.


    ¡°Sure thing,¡± Dalton nodded.


    I left my sentence hanging, confident that Dalton would catch my drift.


    He understood, nodding firmly. ¡°We got what we needed. I¡¯m hopeful we¡¯ll wrap this up soon.¡±


    I let out a sigh of relief and decided to leave without further ado. ¡°Well, I should get going. I¡¯ll wait for


    your word.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± I turned to Jan. ¡°Let¡¯s hit the road.¡±


    Jan didn¡¯t bother with goodbyes to Dalton; instead, he followed me to the car without a word. After


    all, Dalton had barely acknowledged his presence.


    Reaching the car, I didn¡¯t hop on. ¡°I¡¯m swinging by the hospital to sort out the discharge papers. I might


    be heading back to Silverdale tomorrow.¡±


    Jan¡¯s eyes lit up with urgency, ¡°You¡¯re leaving tomorrow? Let me handle the flights. Who¡¯s all


    going?¡± he asked, already nning.


    ¡°You and me, and Fidelia,¡± I pointed out.


    ¡°Fidelia? Why¡¯s sheing along?¡± Jan¡¯s voice wasced with confusion.


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk at home. You don¡¯t want to hash this out here, do you?¡± I retorted, challenging him.


    ¡°Sounds good,¡± I replied as Hannah¡¯s car pulled up. I opened the door and slipped inside, eager to


    leave the conversation behind.


    Jan quickly got into his car and sped away as if chased by demons.


    I snorted, images of Jan unting his picture-perfect life with Marissa and Evan across social media,


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    all smiles and love, ying out the ideal family.


    Unexpectedly, both Marissa and Evan were gone.  Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    I sighed deeply, lost in thought.


    Her words struck a chord. Everyone has different fates. It¡¯s all about karma. Evan and Jerome were


    bound by a deadly fate.


    What I pondered on then was how to make Jerome live with an unbearable regret for his actions.

 Chapter 331

    Chapter 331


    I gazed out of the car window, watching thendscape rush by in a blur, but my mind wasser-focused


    on one thing: I wasn''t about to let Jerome off the hook that easily.


    He needed to know the truth¡ªthat the report was a sham, that he had his own son''s blood on his


    hands. I wanted him to be haunted, to despise the person who handed him that report, to let it be


    his own personal demon.


    "What''s on your mind?" Hannah asked, noticing my silence as she nced my way. "The past is gone,


    and we must learn to let go of those who''ve left us."


    I smirked slightly and replied, "Just thinking about how to let Jerome know he''s been duped, to make


    him obsess over his vengeance. It''ll save us the trouble if he self-destructs."


    "Aaliyah, are you thinking of killing two birds with one stone?" Hannah looked at me, excitement


    shing in her eyes as she pped the steering wheel. "That''s brilliant! Pure genius!"


    I chuckled, "When a life is taken, there has to be some sort of payback, right? If they think they can get


    away scot-free, that''s giving them a free pass. Didn''t she say she wanted to surprise me? Well, it''s time


    I returned the favor with a surprise of my own."


    "Damn, Aaliyah, your mind works in mysterious ways¡ªterrifyingly so!" Hannahughed as she spoke.


    "This n is solid! Let them tear each other apart while we sit back clean-handed."


    "Let the truth be unsaid," I quipped.


    Leaning back in the seat, I pondered for a moment before saying, "If you''re on board, then it''s settled.


    Let''s pay a little visit to the Dawson estate."


    Hannah raised an eyebrow and smirked mischievously, "Sounds good to me. Those old Dawsons need


    to be put in their ce."


    "We''re not just putting them in their ce; we''re going to let them keep living. Let them feel the


    pressure, see if their concern is genuine." I considered Hazel Garry Dawson''s face and continued, "No


    one gets off easy. Hazel wanted a grandchild from me, right? Well, I''ll make sure she gets her wish. Big


    news like this deserves a little birdie to spread the word."


    "You sure about this?" Hannah asked, looking my way.


    I raised an eyebrow disdainfully, "Why not? In their eyes, I''m a wolf in sheep''s clothing, so why y the


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    part of the docilemb? They need to know that I¡¯m not a pushover.¡±


    Hannah grinned at me, "Then let''s hit the road! No need to y coy. Let''s light a fire under them before


    we go¡ªmight just smoke Jerome out."


    I let out a coldugh as we headed straight for the Dawson family''s ancestral home.


    Feeling a sudden rush of excitement, I added to Hannah, "We shouldn¡¯t do it alone, let the Dawsons¡¯


    taste some cyber bullying!"


    Hannah chuckled in agreement, "You''re right. Theizens can chase a story to the ends of the earth."


    Without hesitation, I dialed Logan andid out my idea, asking if it was doable. After all, we had to


    consider the official stance on matters; I couldn''t get too carried away.


    I had full faith in Logan''s confidence. He was the type who wouldn''t touch a job without being sure he


    could handle it. And when it came to stirring the pot online, he was a pro.


    "Just ask him, will you? I can''t approach this from your perspective. You''ve got more sway with him


    than I do," I urged Logan. New ch§Ñpter av?ble on


    I couldn''t help butugh, "Cut the crap and just ask him. If it''s a go, then make it happen. I''m just


    tossing you the idea."

 Chapter 332

    Chapter 332


    Logan always had a way with words that I''de to appreciate. There was a certain rapport between


    us, making every conversation a breeze.


    "Come on, that''s not ying dirty¡ªthat''s just giving them a taste of their own medicine," I said, buzzing


    with excitement as I bantered with Logan, ¡°I bet the Dawsons can''t resist scouring the inte for


    news. A trending topic like this will hit them where it hurts without letting them trace the source. Why


    wouldn''t we jump at the chance?


    And don''t underestimate the power of the people. We''ve got to y the crowd against the crowd. They


    might not believe what their own kin says, but they''ll fall hook, line, and sinker for an outsider''s words.


    So, how are we going to pull this off? Logan, it''s all on you now."


    "No problem, leave it to me! I''ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve for online mischief. What''s the point


    of being a specialist if you can''t show off your skills?" Logan was hooked.


    "And hey, why not take it up a notch? From two birds with one stone to three or even four. Use the buzz


    to drag Jerome into this mess, and once he''s caught up in it, I''ll get started on acquiring Medsafe Liyah


    Inc. How about that?"


    My n lit a fire under Logan, and he immediately pledged, "Allie, consider it done! I''ll make sure


    neither of those jerks gets away. It''s high time we took back Medsafe Liyah Inc."


    "Great, I trust you to handle it!" I encouraged him.


    "Then how about you treat me to a nice dinner sometime?" Logan suggested.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle. "Can''t you aim a little higher? Don''t worry, it''s a done deal. Once I''m back


    from Silverdale City, I''ll get Catherine and find a fancy ce."


    "When are you heading to Silverdale City?" Logan inquired.


    I told him I was leaving tomorrow.


    "You sure you don''t want to run that by the boss?" Logan asked, a hint of skepticism in his voice.


    I knew he meant Ronan, and I hesitated before admitting, "I haven''t had the chance to tell him yet."


    "Well, you better spill the beans. I need to hear his take on it too. After all, he''s the captain of this ship,


    and I don''t want to act hastily without his approval."


    "Alright, I''ll call him as soon as we hang up."


    "Deal!" Logan said and hung up.


    Clutching the phone, I found myself hesitating at the thought of calling Ronan. Honestly, it always made


    me feel a bit weak.


    I wasn''t sure how to break the news to him, especially since I suspected he already knew the oue


    of Evan''s situation but hadn''t discussed it with me.


    Heading back to Silverdale City was definitely something I needed to report to him, as it would likely


    require his assistance. Not only his, but I also needed to give my dad a heads-up.


    After some deliberation, I picked up the phone and dialed Ronan, and he picked up quickly.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Where are you off to now?" he asked gently.


    I had forgotten that he could track my whereabouts at any time. He must have been aware that I''d just


    left the police station.


    "I need to make a trip back to the Dawson household," I said truthfully.


    I exined my ns for returning to Silverdale City the next day and shared my n with Logan.


    After a brief pause, Ronan mused, "Let me think about it."


    As my car entered the Dawson family estate, I informed Ronan, "Alright, that''s settled then. I''ve got to


    go now; I''m just about at the Dawson mansion." Re§Ñd at


    Hearing that I was at the Dawson''s doorstep, he cautioned, "Be careful."


    I didn''t expect him to be concerned about my safety at the Dawson household, which surprisingly


    warmed my heart.


    Without saying much more, I simply told him, "Bye," and hung up.

 Chapter 333

    Chapter 333


    With Hannah by my side, I eagerly strode into the Dawson''s household.


    Unexpectedly, both Farley and Hazel were home. Upon my entrance with Hannah trailing behind,


    Farley''s face went stormy. His sly eyes boring into Hannah for a beat, then turn towards me. ¡°What are


    you doing here?" he asked, rather rudely.


    I couldn''t help but smirk internally. It seemed he still held on to the grudge from the time Hannah had


    given him a swift kick.


    Ignoring his gaze, I walked towards the plush couch and took a seat.


    Although Hazel remained silent, her expression was far more guarded, looking at me with unwavering


    scrutiny, as if she was on edge for whatever I may say.


    I grinned, deciding I better be the one to break the ice. "So, Hazel, I haven''t seen you in a while. What


    have you been up to?"


    Hazel looked at me, a slight annoyance in her voice, "State your business, no need for small talk."


    Feigning meekness, I let out a casual remark. "I''m just wondering... Did you get any news about Evan?


    Did you guys stop searching for him? There seems to be no news since thest update...¡±


    I asked with a seemingly genuine interest, looking directly into Hazel''s eyes that she had to look away.


    Mentioning Evan caused her to grimace slightly, "Mind your own business, it''s not your ce to


    interfere!"


    "But Hazel!" Speaking with an unnerving sweetness, I retorted, "No matter what, I am a legitimate


    member of the Dawson family after all. When something happens to our family, of course I should be


    involved! Before, I didn''t have the energy to do so but now things have taken a turn for the better... so


    why shouldn''t I be concerned?¡±


    "Focus on your own health first. You can ask whatever you want, but don''t stick your nose into things


    that are not your business!" Hazel retorted, her eyes rolling in annoyance.


    Laughing, I replied, ¡°Hazel, isn¡¯t that a bit much? As it turns out, I think I should be focusing on getting


    back to mypany. Everyone present at our office celebration voiced their preference for me to go


    back. Even the mayor himself told me that he looks forward to seeing me at the helm again! I was


    thinking about it and I might just do it!¡±


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Mentioning this apparent vulnerability of hers, Hazel looked dumbfounded, her surprise visible. It was


    clear she hadn''t expected me to broach the subject.


    "You... stop harping on about it right now! What are you going to do at thepany? You should


    concentrate on your home, not go about gallivanting. The Dawson family hasn''t sunk so low to have


    women in charge!" She argued blindly, exposing her obvious bias.


    I replied to her indignantly, "Isn¡¯t you a Dawson, too? Don''t you love showing off at those social


    gatherings on behalf of the Dawsons? How can you im thepany doesn¡¯t need me, considering I


    founded it? Ever since the Goldenvale Town¡¯s businessmunity learned of Medsafe Liyah Inc.,


    everybody knows it''s my creation! If you enjoy all the limelight, why can¡¯t I?¡±


    I continued, ¡°I thought I''d share some of the limelight with you! After all, me, the younger face should be


    attending those events! You are a bit too old for that after all!¡±


    "How dare you¡­" Hazel barked, standing tall, her finger threateningly pointing at me.


    At that moment, Hannah cleared her throat. Hazel immediately lowered her hand.


    I added, "Don''t tell me you''ve already been informed¡­¡± Re§Ñd at


    Judging from the way she reacted, they certainly hadn''t heard the news.


    A silent cheer erupted in my heart. Let me do the honors then!

 Chapter 334

    Chapter 334


    I stared at Hazel with all the seriousness I could muster. "Looks like you really don''t have a clue! I''m


    here because I need to tell you about what happened to Evan!"


    Hazel''s face wrinkled with confusion as she scrutinized my expression, trying to dissect the truth from


    my words. Her voiceced with irritation, she snapped, "What on Earth are you trying to say?"


    "Evan''s gone¡ªhe''s dead! Your favorite grandson is dead!"


    Hazel''s eyes narrowed sharply, and she sprang to her feet, ring at me with venom. "You''re full of it!


    Speak sense, will you?"


    Beside her, Farley gaped at me, shock written all over his face.


    Tears welled in my eyes as I choked out the words, "I''ve juste from the police station. They''ve


    found the body. They say he was pushed down a drain, and they''ve already got a suspect in mind."


    Iid out the facts without any sugar-coating, though I kept the suspect''s identity to myself.


    "Impossible, Aaliyah Wilburn, you''ve always been a troublemaker¡ªspewing nonsense! How could you


    even dare to curse a child? Are you even human?"


    Hazel leaped up as if she''d been stung, her hand raised to strike me! But Hannah was quicker. She


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    caught Hazel''s wrist and said with an airy calm, "What''s gotten into you? Getting all riled up now? Did


    you ever consider this might happen when you used him as a human shield?"


    Hannah was the smart one. She picked up where I left off, saying the things I couldn''t, and it made


    perfect sense.


    Hazel, like a tigress cornered, struggled with brute force to break free from Hannah''s grip, but she


    couldn''t shake her off.


    "Aaliyah, you bitch, bringing trouble to my doorstep. You''ll get what''sing to you!" Hazel, unable to


    free herself,shed out at me with her words.


    I remained seated, unaffected, and called out calmly, "Hannah!"


    At the sound of her name, Hannah knew what I intended. With a swift motion, she flung Hazel''s hand


    away, sending her tumbling onto the couch, where she remained motionless for a good while.


    It took a moment for Farley to regain hisposure. His eyes clouded as he looked at me and said,


    "Aaliyah Wilburn, what are you even saying? Are you looking for trouble?"


    I replied firmly, "Evan''s dead. It happened the night of the celebration, pushed into a drain!"


    "That''s... that''s not possible,¡± Hazel murmured as she managed to sit up, her bluster from before gone.


    "What do you mean, not possible?" I pressed her, "How do you know it''s not possible?"


    Hazel eyed me warily, fear flickering in her eyes, "Aaliyah, what have you done?"


    "That''s what I should be asking you! What have you done? All these years, you must have been up to


    no good to bring this upon that poor kid!"


    Listening to Hannah''s words was like an epiphany¡ªI realized this wasn''t simple. Hazel knew more


    than she let on.


    "Don''t tell me you don''t know how Evan was born? I wanted to ask you, whose seed is he really from


    the Dawson family? Is it Jerome''s or Jan''s? You as his grandmother must know!"


    As expected, Hazel began her deceitful defense, "Don''t you dare spout such lies about us!"


    "Bitch, stop spewing your lies. You¡¯re the menace. Evan..." Farley couldn''t finish his sentence.


    Farley turned a shade of purple with rage, pointing at me, "You... you beast!" Upd§Ñted at


    Dr§Ñ§Þan§àvels.c§à§Þ


    Hazel''s face turned ashen; evidently, she was not so innocent after all.


    I continued to address them, each word deliberate and clear...

 Chapter 335

    Chapter 335


    I could tell by their weary faces that neither of them was innocent. So I pressed on, ¡°You''ve been


    precious grandson hiding at first? Don¡¯t tell me you didn¡¯t know. You were part of the problem,


    aplices to the crime.


    Marissa¡¯s gone, and you think that snuffs out the truth about the scandal surrounding her and your


    sons, right? But now Evan¡¯s gone too, and suddenly the Dawson n is innocent?¡±


    My words were sharp and unrelenting.


    Hazel bristled with rage, ¡°Don¡¯t spout such nonsense. That woman and her bastard child had nothing to


    do with the Dawsons!¡±


    Hannah and I couldn''t help butugh at the absurdity. Hannah twirled on the spot and pointed at Hazel,


    ¡°Oh my, what¡¯sing out of your mouth? Now that they¡¯re dead, you disown them? They¡¯re watching


    you, you know!¡±


    With a mocking gesture, Hannah pointed to the heavens, ¡°See, they¡¯re looking down on you right now!¡±


    Hazel nced up instinctively, her face turning ghostly pale.


    ¡°Marissa was like a daughter to you, wasn¡¯t she? You picked up Evan together, went shopping, showed


    Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    up arm-in-arm at the gs... ying the perfect mother-inw behind closed doors. You sure have a


    short memory, ma¡¯am!¡±


    I couldn''t resist adding fuel to the fire, ¡°Your Evan was the golden boy, wasn¡¯t he? So much so that you


    relentlessly undermined my Probert, almost driving him to depression. Oh, what¡¯s that? You are


    denying it because they¡¯re dead? You think there¡¯ll be no evidence? Think again. The police will do a


    thorough DNA test, and the truth will out! When that happens, the Dawson family will be making


    headlines again!¡±


    ¡°Aaliyah, I didn¡¯t think you could be so venomous¡­¡±


    ¡°The word ¡®venomous¡¯ suits only the Dawson family. If you hadn¡¯t taken the child away, how could he


    have died? It was you, you killed your beloved grandchild! Evan is gone from this world, and with him,


    all your hopes are dashed!¡±


    Standing up, I looked down at Hazel with scorn, ¡°If you¡¯re so eager to know how Evan died, better ask


    your dear son, Jerome. He knows the truth!¡±


    Farley and Hazel were taken aback.


    Turning to Hannah, I whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    With a snort of disdain, Hannah nced at the bewildered couple and shook her head, ¡°What a sin...


    tsk, tsk, such a sin.¡±


    Just as we were about to leave, Hazel lunged at us like a madwoman, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare walk away,


    you¡­ you need to exin yourself¡­¡±


    Before Hannah could react, I stopped her and faced Hazel, ¡°The one who¡¯s caused a scandal is


    Marissa, and your two sons.¡±


    I spoke with contempt, ¡°I¡¯ve delivered the message, so you¡¯d better start preparing a grave. I¡¯ve already


    spoken to the authorities. The Dawsons will be responsible for burying their daughter-inw and


    grandson. You¡¯ll get the call when it¡¯s time to collect the bodies. I¡¯ll see this through to the end.¡±


    Hazel¡¯s face darkened with each word, her mouth agape but speechless.


    Hannah couldn¡¯t resist adding, ¡°Better call your eldest son, or you might never see him again!¡±


    At that, Hazel panicked, her eyes darting to Hannah, ¡°What do you mean? Exin yourself!¡±


    ¡°Take it literally!¡± Hannah huffed dismissively.


    ¡°Exin. Now!¡± Hazel demanded, gripping Hannah¡¯s arm.


    I scoffed inwardly, thinking this was just the beginning. The unworthy don¡¯t deserve the blessings of this


    ce. For now, they could stay, but soon, they wouldn¡¯t have a tenement to call home. Read at


    ¡°Hannah, let¡¯s go!¡± I called out once more.


    Hannah yanked her arm away, and Hazel stumbled, watching us leave without a backward nce.

 Chapter 336

    Chapter 336


    Walking out of the Dawson residence, I could feel the bitter resentment trapped in my chest begin to


    dissipate. But I knew, with a certainty that chilled, human nature like theirs alwaysshes back.


    Well, let theme. The real thrill is yet toe!


    After getting into the car, Hannah turned to me and said, "We should swing by the hospital. It¡¯s time to


    sort out the discharge paperwork."


    "Perfect. I¡¯ve been meaning to have a word with Janice Mackenzie-Geneva anyway," I replied with a


    nod, sinking into the car seat with exhaustion.


    "Aaliyah, you think those two old vultures won''t rat us out to Jan?" Hannah asked as she drove,


    ncing my way.


    "If they can''t reach Jerome, they''ll definitely contact Jan," I said confidently.


    "And then... they''ll tattle again! Aren''t you worried Jan will be on guard against you?" Hannah''s voice


    held a note of concern. "Wasn''t today a bit too much?"


    "Jan''s not just going to be on guard; he''s been on guard. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t be hiding his


    cellphones. But with things the way they are, he''ll strike back even harder. You think he''s going to let go


    of those properties easily?" I shot back at Hannah¡¯s questions.


    "Do you really think he''ll cough them all up?" Hannah pressed, "Is he that obedient?"


    I fell silent for a moment, my thoughts suddenly crystal clear. I had to thank to Hannah; her casual


    remark might have just given me the insight I needed.


    In the game of war, it¡¯s the allies who can turn the tide at crucial moments!


    "Everything in Jan¡¯s name will be ounted for. The worry is what might be hidden under other


    people¡¯s names," I said.


    "You''re right. No wonder he was so quick to settle!" Hannah remarked.


    "You said it. And now I really need to dig deeper!"


    "That might not be easy," Hannah said skeptically.


    "Then we start with the Dawson n and their circle. Jan wouldn¡¯t use unrted people to buy


    properties," I insisted, thinking about the Dawson family¡¯s loyalists in high positions at Medsafe Liyah


    Inc. A cold smile yed on my lips.


    "Jan must hate me to the marrow by now, he¡¯s rushing off to Silverdale City to get closer to the


    Wilburn family¡¯s gold mine. That street, and VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals ¨C that''s the big fish he''s after!


    The more vicious he gets, the more likely he is to bend the knee. The more he ys the fool now, the


    more dirt he''s hiding."


    "So, you''re saying the real battle is about to begin?" Hannah¡¯s tone turned serious.


    "It¡¯s all about who¡¯s got the better strategy," I said with confidence. After all, I had faith in my father, and


    Ronan was a key figure in our n.


    Reaching the hospital, Hannah and I split up. She went to handle the discharge, while I went straight to


    Jta Mackenzie¡¯s room, certain Janice would be there.


    The room was bustling. Janice had brought her newborn to see his aunt for the first time. The little guy


    had just been approved to leave the incubator, and Janice didn¡¯t waste a moment bringing him to


    Jta.


    Jta couldn''t say much, but her mind was clear. She smiled joyously at the sight of Janice''s son.


    As soon as I entered, she was excited, gesturing for the nurse to prop her up in bed. She had improved


    significantly in just two days, now able to sit with support.


    I gestured towards the baby, suggesting Jta take a look first. She nodded vigorously and said,


    "Yes!"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Oh,e off it! His dad''s the smartest; there¡¯s no way he¡¯ll take after me!" I retorted while taking the


    baby.


    Looking down at the tiny baby in my arms, I thought, what a pint-sized little guy, a whole size smaller


    than the average newborn. Co?tent §àf


    "Look at you! Little man! When you grow up, you¡¯ll have to be wise and powerful like your dad."


    Unexpectedly, the little guy cracked a smile. His previously wrinkled face blossomed into a beaming


    grin.


    "Ah! He''s smiling, look, look¡­" Janice eximed with delight.

 Chapter 337

    Chapter 337


    I couldn''t help but smile, watching the blossom of joy on that little face as I teased softly, "You caught


    what I said, didn¡¯t you?"


    The little baby was even happier, iling tiny fists in the air. I could nearly feel those little legs kicking in


    delight.


    "Look, look! He''s smiling!" Janice eximed, her excitement through the roof as she tugged at her


    husband''s sleeve. "Honey, look, he''s smiling!"


    Instantly, all eyes turned our way.


    Baber, ever the doting father, cooed, "Sweetheart, who says my boy can''t smile? Sure, he''s a little bit


    small, but everything else is perfectly normal!"


    Janice pouted and yfully red at Baber who wasughing even more recklessly. "As if I needed


    you to tell me that!"


    Their exchange was so endearing. It was hard not tough. Baber''s affection and pride in his child


    were unmistakable.


    I handed the baby over to Baber, saying, "Here, hold your son. He''s a little charmer. And he''s going to


    be a smart one."


    Baber smiled as he awkwardly positioned himself, nervously taking the little guy into his arms. His


    attempts were bothical and touching.


    He kept on asking, "Am I holding him right? Is this okay?"


    His fear of hurting the little one made him look almost clumsy.


    Trying to hold myughter, I reassured him, "Just rx, will you? He''s your son, not a hand grenade!"


    The room erupted inughter. Baber joined in, though his eyes remained fixed on the baby in his


    hands.


    I couldn''t help but steal a nce at Janice. Though she appeared to tease Baber for his clumsiness,


    her eyes were brimming with nothing but bliss. And that was the essence of true happiness. At that


    moment, I understood just how wise Janice was in her unconventional choices.


    Turning to Jta, I walked over and sat beside her. "You''re looking much better today! I haven''t seen


    you in just a couple of days, and you''re already looking more spirited!"


    She nodded at me with satisfaction. "Yes, I feel... more alive!"


    Janice leaned in with a question. "You weren''t at the hospitalst night, were you?"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    I countered, "Did you visit?"


    She nodded. "Yeah! But you weren''t there, so I figured you hadn''te back. Something wrong?"


    I sighed heavily. "The child... was murdered."


    "What?" Janice gasped, clearly shocked. "Is he... gone?"


    I briefly exined the situation, and everyone responded with dismay.


    Baber, deeply concerned, remarked, "Who got the nerve!"


    "The suspect has vanished, and the cops are on it, but there''s no footage of him!" Imented. "Dalton


    thinks the killer noticed when the police were searching for the body."


    "Who could do such a thing? Why can''t they leave a child alone?" Janice pressed for answers.


    I looked at her and decided to disclose, "Jerome."


    "No way... Is it really him?" Janice asked through clenched teeth, "Are you sure?"


    "You figured it out?" Janice looked at me, her eyes full of admiration. "How did you notice?"


    "Just following my gut. I saw him leave the venue and followed him..." I recounted the events of that


    night to Janice.


    She yelled at me with concern, "You''re too bold! Don''t be so reckless next time. It''s dangerous!"


    Jta, finding her voice, added, "Lucky... you followed." Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    I smiled at her. "Yeah, it was a spur-of-the-moment thing. Something about him seemed off. I was just...


    curious."


    "Aaliyah, you''re so brave!" Baber praised.

 Chapter 338

    Chapter 338


    "Jerome just up and vanishes, huh? He must''ve nned it all along," Janice mused, rocking the baby


    in her arms. "You gotta watch your back!"


    I nodded with a grin, "No worries. I just came by to let you know I''m heading back to Silverdale City


    tomorrow. I''ll stick around a few extra days just in case somethinges up. When are you guys


    checking out?"


    "As soon as the little one''s out of the incubator, we''ll head home. My sister''sing with us," she


    nced at Jta. "It''ll be easier to care for the baby there, beef him up with some good home


    cooking!"


    "You''re right, home''s where you can give the best care, and it''s safer! Besides, Irving''s probably too


    wrapped up in his own mess to bother with anyone else. Jan''s got his eye on a deal in Silverdale


    City, and Irving''s scrambling to partner up. They''re aiming to snatch up VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals," I


    told her, looking at Jta. "This could be a good time for you, Jta, to rest up and get back on your


    feet."


    "They''re looking to invest in Silverdale''s pharma industry?" Janice asked, raising an eyebrow.


    I briefly exined Jan and Irving''s potential partnership.


    Jta listened intently. I turned to her, a trace ofplexity in my gaze.


    Testing the waters, I ventured, "Jta, there''s a chance... I might have to move against Elixir Pharma


    Limited."


    Her eyes narrowed for an instant, but she quickly nodded and said, "Do it! It''s a menace!"


    Iughed, "I had my worries, thinking you might hold a grudge if I went after Irving."


    "Not at all," Jta shook her head.


    Turning to Janice, I said, "If Irving teams up with Jan, I''ll have to take down Elixir Pharma Limited,


    and cut off Irving''s power at the knees."


    Janice nodded and said, "If you need me, just give me a call. Maybe I can help you out."


    My heart stirred at her offer, but I quickly nodded in agreement. "Will do! I just might need your help."


    As we were talking, Hannah came in, having finished the discharge paperwork. She paused, surprised


    by the full room of people, but I quickly called out to her, "Hannah, don''t you want to meet their little


    prince?"


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Ah?" Hannah blinked in surprise, looking at the baby in Janice''s arms.


    With a proud smile, Janice stood up, "Come take a look! Is he adorable?"


    Hannah approached and gently touched the baby''s cheek, but the little guy burst into a wail, leaving


    Hannah embarrassed and stumbling backward. "I... I just wanted to touch him!"


    Janice quickly interjected, "Don''t worry, he''s just hungry! It''s been a while since hisst feed. He


    probably mistook your finger for a nipple!"


    Handing the baby a bottle, his cries came to an abrupt end.


    Hannah rxed, patting her chest. "Geez... It scared the daylights out of me! I had no idea why he


    suddenly started crying!"


    The room filled withughter.


    After watching the baby finish his bottle and coaxing a smile from him, Hannah finally felt relieved, and


    we said our goodbyes.


    Baber insisted, "Once you''re back, you''ve got toe over!"


    I chuckled, "Of course. I can''t miss seeing the little one!"


    She perked up immediately and started to ce our order.


    Jan''s call came through soon after, probing why I was bringing Fidelia to Silverdale City. New


    ch?pter av?ble o?


    There was a hint of suspicion in his voice, so I gave him a brief exnation.


    He said he''d be backte and not to wait up for dinner. There was never a te for him anyway. I


    thought.


    After dinner, Hannah and I packed a simple overnight bag and sat down in the living room for a chat.

 Chapter 339

    Chapter 339


    Out of curiosity, I asked, "What''s going on?"


    Hannah raised her eyebrows and replied, "Hold on!"


    Her slender fingers danced across the screen, clearly tapping out a message. Once she was done, she


    turned to me, giggling, and asked, "So, what''s Jan up to now?"


    Eager for the scoop, I pressed, "Come on, spill it. What''s he going to do?"


    "Turns out he''s off to pay his respects!" Hannah said, her voice dripping with disdain.


    "Pay his respects?" I repeated, surprised.


    "Yeah, and he''s dragging along the two old Dawsons with him! He picked up a bunch of offerings and


    headed out to the west end of town," sheughed exaggeratedly. "Let''s see where they end up. Maybe


    we''ll get them to do a livestream!"


    It then dawned on me that Hannah''s people were always on Jan''s tail, so catching wind of his antics


    was all too normal.


    With glee, Hannah added, "Seems like the old Dawson couple are really torn up about Evan¡¯s death!"


    I snorted contemptuously, "A leopard can''t change its spots. They might be grieving, but they still don''t


    know how to act right!"


    "Jan''s guilty conscience is showing; otherwise, he wouldn''t be putting on such a show today,"


    Hannah said between chuckles. "Aaliyah, seriously, seeing him slumped by the wall looking all


    defeated, I just couldn''t take him seriously!"


    "So, he''s trying to ease his guilt with this memorial thing today," I snorted again.


    "If only Evan could really haunt them, that''d scare the daylights out of them!" Hannah said fiercely.


    We bothughed, not expecting that our wish would soone true.


    About half an hourter, the person watching them sent a video link. Hannah instantly clicked on it, a


    devilish grin on her face as she leaned in close, "Aaliyah, you''ve got to see this. This is their live


    broadcast from the memorial site!"


    At her words, I quickly sat up and scooted closer to her.


    She handed me her phone, saying, "I''m going to grab a stand."


    She dashed back to her room and returned in a sh with a mobile phone stand.


    cing the phone on the stand and setting it on the coffee table, we sat side by side, watching the live


    broadcast.


    The video showed Jan stepping out of the car, followed by Hazel and Farley exiting from the back.


    Jan took out a bunch of offerings from the trunk.


    I scrutinized the location, which seemed to be a deste vige.


    "Hard to tell where this is," Imented offhandedly.


    "It''s the spot where Evan was killed," Hannah promptly replied.


    "It doesn''t look like it," I countered, peering closer.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Pointing at the screen, Hannah exined, "The murder site is about twenty to thirty meters from here.


    The angle is close to the well but more secluded, probably to avoid attention."


    After Hazel got out of the car, looking a bit stiff, Farley helped Jan with the offerings, moving to a


    darker corner that seemed eerily shadowy.


    Once they had moved all the offerings, I saw Jan pull something else from the trunk.


    I zoomed in on the screen to see that it was a photo of Evan.


    Jan found two stones on the ground and wedged Evan''s photo between them, propping it up.


    Farley put a bouquet of flowers on the ground.


    The camera was a bit far, so I had to zoom in to get a clearer view.


    It seemed the person filming was at a distance, likely from inside a car, but the angle was quite good.


    Before long, the video showed the flickering mes, casting an eerie glow on the faces of the three


    figures. They must have gotten cold. Co?tent of Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    Jan kept adding more sticks to the fire, seemingly muttering something under his breath.


    Sparks scattered ominously around.

 Chapter 340

    Chapter 340


    My eyes were glued to the screen, trying to catch Hazel''s reaction. But in that instant, Evan''s photo


    tumbled down unexpectedly, causing Hazel to flinch instinctively.


    The ce was suddenly swept by an eerie gust, the mes leaping higher, sparks flying in all


    directions.


    The next second, the photo that had fallen stood upright again, as if by magic. The flickering light cast


    Evan''s face in the photo in a ghastly distortion, his pupils unsettling, floating as if alive. Hazel, terrified,


    crashed onto the ground with a chilling scream.


    Farley and Jan also shivered, eyes wide with horror as they stared at the photo.


    Then, in a twist beyond belief, the photo caught fire as it floated away, burning rapidly. The face in the


    photo grinned more grotesquely as the photo, carried by a gust of fiery sparks, flew towards Hazel and


    set her clothes aze with a whoosh.


    The fire in the dark, isted space burned brightly and ominously. The person filming the video


    eximed, "Holy smokes! Her clothes are on fire!"


    Hannah responded sharply, "Quiet!"


    The voice whispered urgently, "It''s lit, you see that?"


    Hazel, sitting on the ground, was screaming continuously, rolling and crawling backwards in a dreadful


    panic. Her cries were bone-chilling.


    It was only then that Jan, previously stunned into inaction, sprang into motion, rushing to his


    mother''s side. But even as Hazel''s screams intensified, he seemed clueless about how to extinguish


    the mes, pacing wildly in desperation.


    Farley was the quicker thinker. He ran over and began stomping on the mes engulfing Hazel''s


    clothes.


    Jan finally snapped out of it, grabbed some grass by the roadside, and started beating the mes on


    his mother, all the while crying out for her.


    Hazel screamed in agony. as she rolled on the ground trying to put out the fire.


    Soon, the fire was out, but Hazely motionless.


    Hannah and I were speechless, staring at the screen, goosebumps prickling our skin, hands rubbing


    our arms in disbelief.


    Hannah kept muttering, "Holy hell... Holy hell..."


    I was too shocked to even close my gaping mouth.


    Jan was shouting for his mother, his voice hoarse and barely recognizable. He tried to lift her, but it


    was impossible.


    Then he roared at Farley, "Dad, help me out! Quick!"


    Farley, as if finally grasping the situation, trembled over and together with Jan, they managed to get


    Hazel into the car. Not even bothering with the still-burning fire, they drove off in haste.


    Hannah burst intoughter, "Karma''s a bitch, isn''t it? Evan''s spirit must be making a statement."


    I nced at her and said, "Cut the crap. It was just the air currents from the fire that set the photo on


    fire. Didn''t you see it was mounted on foam board? That stuff''s mmable."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I exined with my know-how, "Still, Hazel''s lucky if she doesn''t end up dead or seriously burnt!"


    The person filming it chimed in, "She''s burnt, and it looks bad... They let the kid drown, and now the


    kid''s getting back at them with fire!"


    The person on the screen replied, "Look, the fire''s not out yet."


    The camera panned back to the burning area, the embers still glowing red and spreading.


    "No worries! I didn''t harm that kid, so he wouldn''t hurt me!" the person filming quipped. "I''m off to check


    it out."


    The sounds of the car door closing and his grumbling followed, "Man, how am I supposed to put this


    out? I might as well let it burn itself out."  Dr?§Þan§àvels


    Hannah growled, "Stop dawdling! End it now!" With that, she turned off the video.


    I said to Hannah teasingly, "So... am I supposed to go to the hospital to check on them?"


    I couldn''t resist a wicked chuckle but said nothing more.

 Chapter 341

    Chapter 341


    I felt it would''ve been pretty low of me to add anything more at that point.


    "It must be Evan''s ghost pulling some strings," I joked, "Can''t really me him. Hazel''s been a piece of


    work towards that kid. A littleeuppance might be just what she deserves!


    Hannah chimed in, "What if Evan''s lonely on the other side and wants his doting granny to keep him


    Iughed it off.


    We sat in silence for a good while until Hannah, with a sly look, asked, "Aaliyah, do you think


    tomorrow''s ns might be postponed? Hazel looks like she''s been through the wringer. With Jerome


    on them, can Jan really just leave his mom alone?"


    I pondered for a moment before scoffing, "Knowing the Dawsons, they''d never let me know about it.


    So, I bet Jan''s schedule won''t change a bit. Besides, he can''t wait to get in touch with my dad right


    away. He wouldn''t miss this for the world!"


    I was so sure of it. Right then, it hit me. I hadn''t told Dad about this yet.


    "Shoot... I gotta give Dad a call!" I said and immediately dialed his number.


    No answer after a few rings. What was up with that? I hung up, bewildered, and turned to Hannah, who


    was still smirking.


    Seeing that the phone didn¡¯t get through, she quipped, "That was something! Ever heard of someone


    setting themselves on fire like that? It''s like something straight out of a horror movie! If it wasn''t Evan''s


    ghost getting back at her, I don''t know what it was!"


    Watching Hannah crack up, I couldn''t help but chime in, "Take it easy there. We still don''t know the full


    story, and Hazel might be seriously hurt."


    Hannah sobered up and said, "Hazel''s clothes must''ve been synthetic, not cotton. If they were, it would


    have been even worse. That stuff melts and sticks to the skin... Yikes!"


    She shuddered and rubbed her arms. "I can''t even imagine. This ident is just... baffling."


    Herment gave me the chills, and I admitted, "From the video, Hazel seemed... off. I can''t tell if she


    didn''t want to pay her respects, or if she was just numb from losing her grandson."


    "About time she felt some pain! Karma''s a thing, you know," Hannah said with no sympathy, reminding


    me, "Aaliyah, don''t go soft on me now. Remember what she''s done to you? Besides, it has nothing to


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    do with you. No need for misced kindness here."


    "Why does everyone tell me that? Catherine was warning me, and now you too!" Iined.


    "That just shows we''re all on the same page. The Dawsons are rotten to the core!" Hannah''s face grew


    stern as she continued, "Sometimes, justice is just waiting for the right moment."


    I sighed in agreement.


    Hannah moved closer, looking me in the eye. "I just don''t get Jan. The guy was so lucky marrying


    you. You''ve got looks, and you''ve got the money, a lot of money!"


    "That''s an exaggeration," I chuckled.


    I smiled and let it slide.


    "He could have just yed it straight, focused on you and the kids, and lived the good life. What more


    could he want? Even if we set all that aside, you''re the only daughter. Eventually, everything would be


    his, right? The guy''s in too much of a hurry," Hannah said, clearly indignant. Re§Ñd at Dra§Þan§àvels


    I patted her arm, trying to calm her down, "Easy there!"

 Chapter 342

    Chapter 342


    When I asked her that question, Hannah couldn''t contain her anger and spat out, "How should I know?


    Aplete idiot, that''s what!"


    "Idiot? Far from it. He''s craftier than a fox! Ever heard of a rough upstart? Jealousy, envy, resentment...


    It''s like he''s got a severe case of it. He has no clue how deep my family''s pockets really are."


    Hannah¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. "He doesn''t know? What do you mean?"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    I smiled. "All thanks to my parents."


    "Tell me!" Hannah scooched closer, crossing her legs as she settled beside me.


    "People have been saying I was a disgrace, that I ran off to Goldenvale Town for some guy, spending a


    fortune for someone else. I didn''t even call my parents to update them on my situation, which is


    basically like setting a fox to keep the geese. They said I was brainless, too sick to even give my


    parents a ring, and that I was cold and indifferent¡ªa daughter gone awry, deserving of every bit of bad


    karma."


    "That''s a bit harsh. Not everyone''s the same. People like us who live away from home don''t burden our


    families with our troubles!" Hannah countered the harsh words with understanding. "If you told them


    what you were going through, they''d be worried sick!"


    I gave a wry smile. "Truth is, I was so sick I was practically under the Dawsons¡¯ spell, never lucid


    enough to even consider calling. I was just drifting, waiting for death."


    "That''s terrifying!" Hannah muttered, "Damn that Jan!"


    "And to top it off, some had the nerve to me my parents, saying they should''ve inquired more when


    they lost contact with me. When they came to Goldenvale Town to check on me, they were easily


    sidetracked with a few words. What kind of parents do that?"


    "Were there actually people saying that?"


    "Everyone only knew half the story. My folks are no ordinary old-timers. They''ve got a way of thinking, a


    sharpness in their logic." I said proudly and continued, "They sensed something was off during their


    visit but didn''t want to spook anyone, so they headed back to Silverdale City."


    "They didn''t just sit around after that, did they?" Hannah probed.


    "Of course not. They had friends in Goldenvale Town look into Medsafe Liyah Inc. and figured out the


    whole scenario. That''s when Mr. Richardson entered the picture, and they got wind of my situation.


    They were worried sick but never one to make a scene. Instead, they meticulously nned every step


    of my recovery."


    Hannah gave me a thumbs up. "Impressive!"


    I smiled contentedly and said, "Even I didn''t know until myst trip back to Silverdale City that my dad


    had bought a whole street and... well, the financial backing behind it."


    "You mean, you didn''t even know your family was loaded?" Hannah was skeptical.


    "It''s a long story," I sighed.


    Hannah nudged me, "Go on, what happened next?" Re§Ñd at


    I looked at the engrossed Hannah and added, "As for his phndering ways, well, that''s just the


    Dawson family genes at work!"


    "Wow, it¡¯s soplicated!" Hannah sighed, "So was that the whole thing? No wonder you can''t stand


    the Dawson family!"

 Chapter 343

    Chapter 343


    ¡°He had no idea that I was sitting on a mountain of old money. Sure, there were details he was


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    blissfully unaware of, but for Jan, it was a trap ready to spring. Just wait for the show," I mused with


    an impish grin, "It''ll be a treat to watch him squirm."


    "Damn," Hannahughed, her face lit with a wicked gleam. "I''ve got this feeling that Jan''s be


    theb rat in this whole twisted experiment."


    I snorted disdainfully, gritting my teeth. "He''s not just ab rat; he''s the whole damn group of rats. I''m


    going to toy with him ever so slowly."


    Hannah was speechless, her eyes wide.


    I smiled slyly. "Truth be told, I''m still kept in the dark about some family secrets. Dad and I have an


    understanding. He handles the affairs in Silverdale City, and I take the reins in Goldenvale Town. If I


    don''t take my revenge with my own hands, I''ll never taste happiness."


    "I totally get where you''reing from now!" Hannah said, her voice dripping with empathy.


    My phone rang. It was my dad calling back.


    I quickly sat up to answer, "Dad, what''s keeping you so busy that you can''t pick up my calls?"


    He chuckled, "Got tied down by your siblings, I left my phone in the foyer while I was in the study. Your


    mom heard it ringing and brought it to me."


    "Are you still at the Wood Manor?" I probed, "It¡¯s sote!"


    "Yes, we haven''t left yet."


    I hurriedly informed him, "Unless somethinges up, we''ll be heading back to Silverdale City


    tomorrow."


    Dad perked up, "Oh? Has the suspicion been lifted?"


    I sighed, sharing the news of Evan''s death.


    Dad sighed deeply, his voice somber, "Poor kid. Hopefully, he''ll rest in peace."


    I briefed him on Jan and Irving''s situation before adding, "Dad, I think we need to switch up our


    strategy. Jan''s looking for a fast track to sess. Maybe it''s time he meets Bet Richardson


    face-to-face and gets a glimpse of the bigger prize. With both of us working from our ends, he''ll have to


    go all in."


    "Alright," Dad mused, "I''ll give it some thought."


    "Just remember, Jan will be traveling with me this time. There won''t be many chances for him to act


    alone. Make sure your n is foolproof," I insisted.


    "Got it," he affirmed.


    With that, we ended the call.


    Hannah and I chatted for a while longer before I said, "Let''s stick to the n. Time for some rest. We''ll


    just watch and wait."


    Truth be told, I was exhausted.


    My health had improved significantly. Gone were the days of being bedridden.


    As I was about to head off to freshen up, Catherine called. "Heard you''re heading back to Silverdale


    City tomorrow. Are you?"


    I countered, "Who told you?"


    I knew well she had her sources; only a few knew of my travel ns.


    Catherine giggled, unbothered. "Guess it."


    I scoffed, "Why bother with secrets? I already know who it is."


    "And how do you know it''s him?" she asked naively.


    I threw the question back, "Who''s ''him'' to you?"


    There was a wail of despair from the other end. "Oh my god... Can''t you just be straight with me? Are


    you going back to Silverdale City tomorrow or not?"


    I finally relented with a leisurely smile, "With your sources, why do you even need confirmation?"


    "Allie, you''re definitely back in form," Catherine said.


    I couldn''t help asking, "And how''s that?"


    I couldn''t help butugh.


    "There, was that so hard? Just needed a straight answer," Catherineined. "Since you''re going


    back, I''m good. Bye!"  Dr?§Þan§àvels


    "Hold on..." I quickly interjected, "Wait a minute... Why did you call anyway? What''s the deal?"


    "If you''re going back to Silverdale City, so am I. Tomorrow. OK?" she said with a certain smugness.


    I pressed on, "You''re returning to Silverdale City too? Don''t you have work?"


    "Allie, have you ever heard of annual leave?"


    She deflected, "What''s it to him?"

 Chapter 344

    Chapter 344


    Catherine''s slip of the tongue had unwittingly given away the secret.


    With a chuckle, I responded, "Alright then, I''m hanging up!"


    "What... Are you not going to ask?" Catherine sounded almost disappointed as I mentioned ending the


    call, prompting her to prod further.


    "Nope, I''m not asking! I don¡¯t care!" I mimicked her tone yfully, adding, "What''s it to me?"


    "Ah..." Catherine protested with a yful whine, "Aaliyah, you''re just brimming with energy, aren''t you?"


    "Well... We''ll talk when I get back!"


    I was bursting to tell her about Hazel''s misadventure that evening, but I managed to hold my tongue. If


    we got started, we''d probably talk till dawn and forget about sleep altogether!


    Even though I was feeling much better, I wasn''t up for an all-night gabfest.


    "Fine, fine, it''ste anyway. I''ll let you off the hook! Sleep tight, and we''ll catch up tomorrow!" she said,


    before reluctantly hanging up.


    I put down the phone, grinning to myself. It looked like Catherine, the eternal bachelorette, might just


    be waving the white g.


    I was curious about how she got entangled with Logan.


    No surprise there, though. With Logan''s sweet tongue, it was only a matter of time before he swept her


    off her feet.


    They were like two peas in a pod ¨C an oddball match made in heaven.


    While these thoughts amused me, I took a brisk shower. Stepping out of the bathroom, I nearly jumped


    out of my skin.


    Jan had returned at some point, standing silently against the wall, his light-colored shirt smeared


    with grime, his expression distant. His usually stylish hair was a mess, his face pale in the dim light ¨C


    quite the spook.


    Seeing me look at him in horror, he suddenly looked like a wronged child, his eyes glinting with


    vulnerability. He straightened up and wrapped his arms around me, his voice hoarse as he whispered,


    "Babe..."


    I pushed him away, visibly unsettled, andined, "What on earth have you been doing to get this


    filthy? And what''s that smell? Ugh!"


    He tried to step back, masking his difort, "I''ll shower right now... Right now..."


    I grabbed him and said, "Wait a minute..."


    I sniffed the air, "What''s that smell on you? It''s like burnt ashes. No... Not quite..."


    I frowned deliberately, sniffing again. "And there''s a hint of disinfectant? What have you been up to?"


    Jan squirmed, forcing a smile, "Babe, your nose is too good!"


    "Cut the crap. What have you been doing?" I pressed on.


    He looked cornered, then spilled reluctantly, "Ah... Don''t even ask! I''ve been at the office sorting out


    some stuff, thinking it would give me peace of mind when we head to Silverdale City, so I could spend


    more time with you. Just as I was about to leave, some idiot was smoking in the storage room and lit up


    some old samples. Luckily, a few people were still around. We put out the fire together, and Laird got a


    bit hurt. I couldn''t just leave him, so I took him to the hospital. Thankfully, he''s okay!"


    Sure enough, his tale was smooth. Had I not known beforehand what really happened, I might have


    fallen for his tall tale.


    Just as I expected, he didn''t want me to know about Hazel''s burn ident!


    I looked at him with reproach. "Thepany needs to be tightened up. Those people are too reckless.


    No one should be smoking in a storage room!"


    "I''ve emphasized it at every meeting. But some just don''t listen!"


    "Do you know who did it?" I pushed, ying along with his charade.


    "The cameras didn''t catch it. It''s hard to investigate," Jan replied quickly.


    "Then install one there. How much does a camera costpared to the value of the building? Can¡¯t


    you do the math?" I scolded with feigned anger.


    "It''s on the list. I''ve already given the order," Jan said, looking earnest. "It''s not about being cheap;


    who knew someone would take advantage of it?" New chapter av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    I pushed Jan into the bathroom and turned to leave for the dressing room to fetch his clothes.


    As I turned away, I couldn''t help but let out a sardonic chuckle, "Let''s see how long you can keep up


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    this charade!"

 Chapter 345

    Chapter 345


    As I was settling into bed, Jan scooted closer, nudging up against me with a clear intention that sent


    a shiver down my spine.


    I rolled over to face him and said, ¡°You know, I went out of my way to tell your mom about Evan¡¯s


    ident. She adored that boy, treated him like her little prince. I was the first one to know, and heaven


    forbid she finds out and mes me for not caring enough. I couldn¡¯t stand that!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it. She probably didn¡¯t care as much as you think. My mom¡¯s a tough cookie, always


    picking a fight and never saying anything nice. Let¡¯s not stoop to her level, okay?¡± Jan¡¯s words


    sounded sweet, but I could hear the impatiencecing his tone.


    ¡°Easy for you to say,¡± I retorted icily. ¡°But if I said that, I''d be the bad guy, wouldn¡¯t I? I¡¯m left cleaning up


    your family¡¯s messes, and why did I even bother telling her? To prevent her from gossiping and causing


    more trouble, that¡¯s why!¡±


    Jan lost all interest in that, flopping over like a deted balloon. ¡°You¡¯re right, let¡¯s just sleep,¡± he


    muttered.


    I raised an eyebrow and muttered under my breath, ¡°Yeah, y the good guy. Like you care! I¡¯m


    making sure you¡¯ll never be interested in me again.¡± I turned around to pull away from him, and closed


    my eyes with a clear conscience, drifting off to a peaceful slumber.


    The next morning, I was up early, instructing Hannah to pick up little Fidelia, and I made breakfast.


    Jan, fresh and spruced up from the night before, got down the stairs with a suave charm.


    Surprised to see me in the kitchen, he nced around and asked, ¡°Uh, what¡¯s for breakfast? Why are


    you making breakfast? Let me do it!¡±


    As if I¡¯d let him.


    I replied, ¡°It¡¯s all done. Just sit down and eat.¡±


    I ced the perfectly fried eggs on the table.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    He put on his considerate husband act. ¡°Honey, that¡¯s enough work for you. Come and eat! It¡¯s been


    ages since we had breakfast together.¡±


    I sauntered to the tablezily and pushed a ss of milk towards him. ¡°What¡¯s so special about eating


    together?¡±


    He gazed at me with feigned affection. ¡°You are at your loveliest in the kitchen!¡±


    I scoffed disdainfully, ¡°Don¡¯t you have a housekeeper for that?¡±


    He stretched his neck defensively at my jibe. ¡°Can we not bring up unpleasant things, please? I¡¯ll


    change, I promise! It¡¯s this illness of yours that shook me up. I¡¯d never be so ungrateful otherwise.¡±


    I didn¡¯t respond, just let him keep up his performance. But it seemed he too realized he couldn¡¯t go on.


    After breakfast, Hannah arrived with Fidelia. I urged them to eat quickly so we could head to the airport.


    Fidelia shyly greeted Jan, who responded with lukewarm indifference.


    The kid hadn¡¯t brought much, just a regr backpack.


    Cami¡¯s call came through and I picked up immediately.


    ¡°Aaliyah, I took your advice and didn¡¯t pack anything for Fidelia except for a few clothes and her


    homework. If there are any expenses¡­¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just shy,¡± Cami emphasized, and then added, ¡°Okay, just let me know when you arrive.


    Thanks, Aaliyah!¡±


    ¡°Stop it! I¡¯ll let you know when wend,¡± I said. Re§Ñd at Dra§Þan§àvels


    We hung up, and Fidelia, who had been sneaking nces at me, gave me a timid smile when she


    caught my gaze.


    As we got into the car, I deliberately checked Fidelia¡¯s ordinary backpack, which was far from the luxury


    Hannah had implied.


    Noticing my intent, Hannah made a point of sitting next to Fidelia and casually asked, ¡°Hey, I just


    noticed, why didn¡¯t you bring the backpack you had yesterday?¡±

 Chapter 346

    Chapter 346


    As Fidelia grinned slyly at Hannah''s question and nced at her bag, she chuckled, "Mom didn''t let me


    bring it!"


    "Oh!" Hannah nced at me with a poker face.


    I kept my expression neutral, but inwardly I mused, ''Cami is always so cautious.''


    The rest of the journey passed in silence, and the ne touched down in Silverdale City. To my


    surprise, as we exited the terminal, I saw my three kids ¨C they had alle to pick me up.


    I was on the verge of tears.


    Though I hadn''t been gone for long, this was the first time I''d truly been away from the kids, and I


    missed them terribly, especially my little Carl.


    Their presence at the airport filled me with an indescribable joy. And of course, it was my dad who had


    brought them along.


    Monique was jumping up and down with excitement, yelling, "Mom, Dad! We''re over here."


    But she jumped straight into Jan''s arms, showing an unusual closeness to him.


    Probert, on the other hand, grinned and leaped into my arms like a little tiger. "Mom, I missed you so


    much!"


    I asked them, "Didn''t you see Fidelia?"


    Monique wriggled out of Jan''s arms and grabbed Fidelia''s hand, "Wee to Silverdale City,


    Fidelia!"


    Probert ran over too, looking up with a bright smile, "Fidelia, you really came!"


    Fidelia nodded shyly, not quite sure what to say, and looked at me with timid eyes.


    I introduced her to my dad, "This is Fidelia." She obediently greeted him.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    My dad smiled in joy. His affection for Fidelia was as great as for his own grandkids.


    Jan was somewhat wary of my dad, waiting until the kids had their fun before he respectfully said,


    "Mr. Wilburn!"


    My dad, ever the actor, managed his expression perfectly, grinning, "Let''s go. Let''s head home!"


    Helga then came over with Carl, and I took him into my arms, showering his face with kisses, which


    made him giggle and nibble at my cheek. "Mommy, I missed you!"


    "Really? Where did you miss me?" I asked, watching him pat his chubby belly. "Right here!"


    Iughed happily, and Hannah approached, offering her arms, "Can you give me a hug?"


    He clung to my neck tightly and refused, "No, mommy hug!"


    Jan stepped forward and reached out his hands, "What about daddy?"


    Carl turned his little head away, snuggling against my cheek, "No, just mommy!"


    We allughed, and our party took two cars back to Oldtown Avenue.


    I sighed, thinking of the Dawson family. All the kids were here. If only Evan... Well, that''s life.


    Hannah sensed my mood and whispered, "Don''t think about it."


    It seemed he''d been keeping an eye on me ever since Inded in Silverdale City.


    I quickly sent Cami a reassuring message that I had arrived safely and then asked Helga, "How''s


    mom?"


    Looking at Carl in my arms, my heart melted. I remembered how he used to call for ''Nanny'' every day


    when Helga first arrived, but now he seemed to be forgetting her. Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    It was true what they say ¨C children grow close to those who care for them. My son, it seems, is still


    closest to his mother.


    When we entered the house, my mom was practically on pins and needles. "What took you so long to


    get back?"


    "You''re too anxious. We came straight here!" Iughed, "What are you worried about? I''m back, aren''t


    I?"


    I watched her gaze shift to Jan, amused by the subtleties of our family dynamics.

 Chapter 347

    Chapter 347


    I noticed Gemma, although her words were sweet and her smile bright, it never quite reached her eyes.


    She only spared a quick nce at Jan, who had just walked in, before turning her gaze away.


    Jan himself acted aloof. It was his default demeanor around the help, putting on airs of superiority.


    "Gemma, you''ve been working so hard today!" I said with a gentle smile, my voice dripping with


    gratitude.


    "Oh, Miss Wilburn, you''re too kind. It''s all part of the job!" She chirped, scurrying over to relieve Jan


    of the armful of gifts he carried.


    "Gemma, this is my husband!" I seized the opportunity to introduce them.


    Jan looked down briefly, nodding at Gemma, who grinned with pleasure. "Sir, you are quite


    handsome!"


    "Oh... I''d forgotten you two had already met!" I feigned surprise, turning towards them. Both their faces


    stiffened for a moment and after exchanging a quick nce, they hastily looked away.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Jan spoke up. "The details are a bit hazy, I must admit."


    "Busy people have a lot on their te. It¡¯s absolutely normal to forget sometimes! Please,e on in!"


    Gemma recovered quickly.


    As we moved into the living room, Fidelia had already met my mother and sweetly called out, "Mrs.


    Wilburn!"


    My mother hugged her, inspecting her from head to toe. "Look at this beauty! The Dawson kids are all


    so gorgeous!"


    Thatment made Jan beam with pride, a testament to the Dawson family legacy.


    Fidelia looked at me uncertainly, but I encouraged her, "Just rx here. You can do as Monique does.


    Monique¡¯s grandpa has already nned out your study time! The rest of the time, just have fun!"


    Monique took charge. "Come on, Fidelia, let''s go meet my friends!"


    Without waiting for a reply, she dragged Fidelia out the door.


    "Stay close. Dinner is almost ready!" My mother said.


    "Got it!" Monique replied, still pulling Fidelia along.


    My mother, not quite at ease, quickly turned to Probert, "Follow them. Make sure theye back


    soon!"


    Like a little adult, Probert reassured her, "Don''t worry, Grandma. I''ve got this! I''ll bring her back in no


    time!" With that, he hurried after them, the picture ofposure.


    My mother sighed. "Probert is such a treasure, never a worry. He''ll be someone we can count on in the


    future."


    Hearing this, Jan''s smile deepened.


    Internally, I scoffed at the thought of any ''great responsibilities'' having anything to do with him.


    My father beckoned Jan, "Come, have a seat!"


    Jan approached with reverence. "Galen, how have you been?"


    "Fit as a fiddle! And your folks?" my dad inquired casually.


    I raised an eyebrow at Jan, who calmly replied, "They''re all well."


    I nearly burst outughing. Yes, all so well that they ended up in the hospital.


    Hannah caught my eye, and I realized I hadn''t had the chance to ask her about Hazel''s condition since


    her hospitalizationst night. It had been a whirlwind day with no time for such inquiries.


    Even Catherine, who was supposed to return to Silverdale City, was nowhere to be seen.


    I tried to call her, but it went straight to voicemail. She was probably on a flight.


    Seeing everyone busy, I tugged at Hannah. "Come on, let''s get you settled in a room."


    Hannah followed, awestruck, "Aaliyah, this mansion is absolutely incredible!"


    "It''s just one thing. Old. Don''t you feel it?" I said as we walked inside. "This ce reeks of old times.


    Young folks don''t seem too keen on living here anymore."


    "Did your family used to be wealthy?" she asked, full of wonder.


    Iughed, "Not anymore, but this house is my grandfather''s legacy. The credit for its upkeep goes to


    my father."


    "Your grandfather truly did a service!" Hannah eximed. "I''ve heard these old houses are most


    vulnerable to ants, right?" Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    Upon reaching a room upstairs in the back house, I opened the door for Hannah. "You''ll stay here.


    We''re just across the way, so call me anytime you need!"


    "It''s beautiful. I feel like ady from the olden days in her boudoir!" She was utterly enchanted.


    Her expression lifted my spirits. "And so you are!"


    Sheughed, pleased as could be.


    Just then, her phone pinged with a new message. She quickly grabbed it and nced at the screen...

 Chapter 348

    Chapter 348


    Hannah opened the text message with a smirk. She only needed a brief look before sidling up to me,


    phone in hand. My curiosity piqued. I peered at the screen and jolted in shock, quickly taking the phone


    from her.


    The video clip showed exactly what I was hoping for¡ªan inside view of a hospital room.


    Jessica was there, so it was clearly Hazel¡¯s room.


    Hazel was lying in the hospital bed, her face obscured by Jessica''s figure, but the bandages on her


    legs and arms told me her injuries were severe.


    On the other side, stretched out on a couch, was Farley, sound asleep.


    Suddenly, a wail erupted from within, sending shivers down my spine, followed by intermittent shouts,


    "Call Jerome back... Get him for me..."


    It was obvious Hazel wanted Jerome.


    Hazel''s reliance on Jerome ran deep¡ªnot only because Jerome was the head of the Dawson Group


    but also because he was known for his fearlessness and wild nature.


    To Hazel, Jerome was her rock.


    After joining the Dawsons, I found out that Hazel never med Jerome for the trouble he caused on


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    the streets.


    From a young age, Jerome had been part of a rough crowd, always getting into fights and asserting his


    dominance.


    When Jerome got into a fight, and the aggrieved parties came knocking, Hazel never disciplined him.


    Instead, she scoffed at the victims, defiantly iming, "It takes two to tango. Why hasn''t my son been


    hit? Maybe your kid provoked him, and you have the nerve toe knocking! If you''re so brave, go


    ahead and hit him. If you think I''m doing a poor job educating him, teach him a lesson yourself. I should


    be thanking you! Can''t fight back and you run home to mommy? How pathetic."


    She was utterly unreasonable.


    One time, someone couldn''t take it anymore and actually hit Jerome, which only unleashed Jerome¡¯s


    vicious side, and he ended up giving that person a savage beating.


    That wasn''t the end of it. That night, Hazel, with her three sons in tow, cornered them at their doorstep,


    hurling insults so fiercely that the family didn''t dare show their faces for three days, fearful of Dawson''s


    revenge.


    So, when they lived in the tenement building, the Dawsons had a notorious reputation in the


    neighborhood. No one dared cross them. That was Hazel''s pride¡ªhaving sons, especially a powerful


    eldest like Jerome.


    Jerome was Hazel¡¯s pir of strength; she consulted with him on everything, relying on him for support.


    When Jan started bringing in money, Hazel''s arrogance knew no bounds. She saw herself as a cut


    above the rest.


    If anyone questioned her boldness, the answer was her sons!


    At that moment, I realized why her spirits had been low during Evan''s memorial¡ªnot because of


    Evan''s death, but because she couldn''t reach Jerome.


    Jerome was the backbone of Hazel¡¯s arrogance. Now that Evan''s incident had led to Jerome''s


    disappearance, that was the real reason for her disarray.


    No wonder back at the Dawson''s, when I mentioned Evan''s death, she argued with me. And when I


    suggested she contact Jerome, her demeanor shifted.


    In the video, Farley was probably jolted awake by Hazel''s scream. Annoyed, he flipped over on the


    couch, trying to get back to sleep.


    "Ah... Don''te near! Don''t youe here!" Hazel shrieked again, her voice filled with terror and


    despair.


    I immediately felt something was amiss and looked at Hannah, asking with suspicion, "What''s going


    on?"


    Hannah snorted, "Looks like she got the scare of her life!"


    I frowned, hardly able to imagine.


    Hannah quickly exined,ughing, "Quincy said they rushed her straight to the OR when she got to


    the hospital. You guessed it. Her clothes were all synthetic, and when they caught fire, they melted


    onto her skin. Re?d at Dr?m§Ñ?§àv§Öls


    "So, with Evan gone and Jerome missing, she''s falling apart!" Hannah added.


    Another pained cry from the video, and Farley suddenly sat up on the couch¡­

 Chapter 349

    Chapter 349


    Farley bellowed at Hazel on the hospital bed, "Enough with the screaming... You''ve been at it all night


    long, for Pete''s sake! Can''t you let me sleep for a bit?"


    Jessica was livid, snapping back at her dad, "What''s your problem? She''s hurt, isn¡¯t she? Why else


    would she be screaming? Can''t you show a littlepassion? Did you miss any sleepst night? And


    you''re still in bed?"


    "I don''t have to take this crap," Farley retorted angrily. "It was her idea to go out yesterday, wasn¡¯t it? If


    she hadn¡¯t insisted on that silly ritual, would we be in this mess? I didn''t get a second of sleepst night


    with all her yelling!"


    "Shut your trap!" Jessica shot back disrespectfully. "All you do is me others. What good have you


    done? Why don''t you take charge for once?"


    "Oh, give me a break! Me, take charge? When has she ever let me decide anything? This whole


    disaster is her own doing!" Farley roared without restraint.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle and quipped, "Looks like Farley''s finally growing a spine!"


    Hannah, puzzled, looked at me and pressed, "Why do you say that?"


    With a grin, I exined, "In the Dawson family, Farley ranks about as high as the family pet. He''s been


    under Hazel''s thumb his whole life, with no chance of ever taking the lead. Anyone can snap at him,


    scream at him, and he wouldn¡¯t dare let out a peep. Jessica, especially, has inherited all her mom''s


    sass. She doesn¡¯t have an ounce of respect for her dad. I remember one time overhearing her scolding


    Farley! It was ruthless"


    "No wonder!" Hannahughed even harder. "The girl''s got guts!"


    As if on cue, Jessica, perfectly illustrating my point, hurled another insult, "And you have the gall to


    talk? If it weren''t for Mom, this family would be out on the street! You¡¯d have us living off bread and


    water!"


    Hannah was stunned into silence by Jessica¡¯s harsh words, then burst intoughter.


    "Don''tugh. To outsiders, Jessica can be quite thedy," I rified.


    "Lady? Please! That''s ady?" Hannah was skeptical.


    "That''s the Dawson charm ¨C they''re all born actors," I praised.


    No sooner had I finished mypliment than Jessica cursed again, "It''s all because of that damn


    Aaliyah. Always up to no good. Mom was right. She¡¯s the curse. If she¡¯d just drop dead, all our


    problems would be solved!"


    Hannah was taken aback by Jessica''s harsh words and frowned. "What a piece of work. Who does she


    think she is?"


    "She''s a chip off the old block ¨C Hazel''s mini-me," I elucidated.


    "There''s a saying that ''Sisters-inw can be a handful,''" Hannah muttered under her breath.


    "Jessica''s got a dark side, alright. She seemed so meek and mild at first, always clinging to me when I


    started dating her brother," I sighed.


    Hannah didn¡¯t mince words, "Clinging to you, or to your wallet?"


    I smirked knowingly. "Bingo. She was only after the cash, not me. Anytime she fancied something I


    bought, she''d stick to me like glue."


    "And you just gave in?" Hannah looked at me with a mix of amusement and disdain. "Spoiled her


    rotten, you did!"


    "Catherine said the same thing!" I admitted with an embarrassed chuckle. "They say ''favors breed


    resentment,'' and that''s the truth."


    "So, they all wish you dead! They act like everything they have is manna from heaven and has nothing


    to do with you, Aaliyah," Hannah said, her voice tinged with anger.


    "Don''t get worked up. I''ve gotten used to it. You can see, wishing me dead is a family consensus at the


    Dawson household."


    "But who would''ve thought? You''re one lucky girl. Saved by a whisker!"


    "Heaven¡¯s mercy!" I said with a wry smile.


    Her words had barely faded when a furious roar echoed, "What nonsense are you spouting now?"


    At that, the imposing figure of Jesper appeared on the scene, striding in with a thunderous expression,


    ring at Jessica.


    Jessica quickly turned to face Jesper, and she asked, "Did I say something wrong?"


    Dr?§Þan§àvels


    "Jesper sure knows how to make an entrance ¨C low profile until he snaps," Hannah murmured.


    Suddenly, a thought struck me, and I turned to Hannah, asking,"How did you manage to get this


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    footage?"

 Chapter 350

    Chapter 350


    Hannah stared at me, her eyes zed with confusion. It was clear she hadn''t grasped what I was


    getting at.


    I borated, "What I mean is, how was this clip recorded? You said Quincy did it, but howe Jesper


    didn''t notice him when he walked in?"


    "Don''t worry, it was captured by a hidden camera, perfectly ced right by the room''s entrance,"


    Hannah quickly rified, pointing to demonstrate. "It''s as discreet as if it were shot with a smartphone,


    so no one would spot it!"


    "But how did it get there?" I asked, taken aback.


    From the angle of the footage, it did indeed seem like it was covertly recorded by a phone.


    Hannah shed a mischievous grin. "There are ways. They''re pros at this."


    I was impressed. A camera right by the zing doorway and it went unnoticed.


    Just then, I heard Jesper snap at Farley with impatience, "If you want to sleep, go home. We don''t


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    need sleepers here!"


    We quickly turned our attention back to the screen, where Farley was obviously irritated but didn''t dare


    talk back after muttering something under his breath.


    Jessica seemed to be holding back some anger, and hearing Jesper asking Farley to leave, she


    exploded, "Get lost already! Stop your whining here!"


    Farley shot Jessica an angry re, but instead of backing down, she doubled down, yelling, "What are


    you looking at? Listen up, Jesper told you to go home and sleep. If you dare mess around again, don''t


    me me for not showing mercy!"


    "That''s enough!" Jesper cut in, visibly annoyed, and then turned to Farley. "Just go, will you?"


    Farley threw Jessica onest re before standing up and heading for the door, dropping a parting


    shot, "You''re just like your damn mother. Worthless!"


    Jessica was about to retort, but a stern look from Jesper made her hold back her words.


    Once Farley waspletely out of sight, Jesper said to Jessica with a hard tone, "Jessica, can you


    stop talking to him like that? Can''t you read the room?"


    "Why can''t I stand up to him when everyone else does? Why can you light a fire and I can''t light a


    Hannah shook her head in disbelief. "What a bunch of weirdos in this family!"


    She nced at me, worried herment might offend me.


    "You think I''m a weirdo too?" I asked, my eyes never leaving the screen, teasing Hannah a little.


    I was hoping to catch some useful information from the siblings'' conversation. "This is what happens


    when their lives fundamentally change. They be more unreasonable. When I first met Jan, they


    all put on a good show, at least they weren''t this disgusting in front of me!"


    My exnation felt weak, so I chose to remain silent.


    In the video, Jesper spoke with authority, "Can''t you see the difference? That''s at home, and now is not


    the time to fan the mes. Even mom''s too much to handle!"


    "Jan agreed to the visit. Who knew it would turn out like this? Good thing I didn''t go!" Jessica said


    selfishly, revealing she had been there during the nning.


    After her remark, she nced toward the door and leaned in closer to Jesper, whispering, "Any word


    on Jerome?"


    Jesper too nced at the door. "Mind your own business! Knowing too much isn''t good for you."


    Jessica pouted. "Mom said, Aaliyah mentioned it might be Jerome''s doing."


    "What nonsense are you spouting?" Jesper scolded.


    "You don''t know anything!" Jesper looked at her with disdain. "Just stay here and take care of Mom. No


    more work for you!" Co?tent §àf


    "You all use your brains, leaving me to y the nursemaid. Get Jan back here!" Jessica was truly


    resentful. "With Jerome gone, and Jan..."


    Before Jessica could finish, a sharp ''snap'' echoed, silencing the room.

 Chapter 351

    Chapter 351


    Hannah stared at the screen, her eyes zed over for a moment before a wicked grin spread across


    her face. "Serves her right! The first time Iid eyes on Jessica, I wanted to p her!"


    I pondered aloud, "You see that? Jesper''s ying a deep game here!"


    Jessica stood frozen for a good while beforeing back to her senses. Rage red within her.


    "Jesper, you coward! Do you feel powerful after hitting a woman? Who the hell do you think you are?


    Parading around like Mr. Perfect. I¡¯ve let you badmouth me in the office more times than I should have,


    and now... Now you p me? You''ve got guts! I''ll give you that. You''re scared she¡¯ll b, huh? Well,


    keep an eye on her then!"


    Without another word, she grabbed her purse and stormed toward the door. "And Mom, deal with your


    own mess for once!"


    "Stop right there! Jessica, if you take one step out of this room, I''ll make sure you and your buddy


    Palmer are history at Medsafe Liyah Inc. Don''t think for a second I don''t know what you''ve been up to!"


    Jesper''s voice was icy, chilling to the bone. "Messing with the ounts, huh? You really thought I had


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    no clue?"


    Jessica halted in her tracks, slowly turning to face Jesper. "You... What do you know?"


    Hazel, roused again by themotion, began to cry out from the bed, "No... Stay away... Please..."


    "Make your choice," Jesper said coldly, ncing at Hazel''s hysterics before issuing his ultimatum to


    Jessica.


    Jessica stood motionless for a few seconds before reluctantly turning back and approaching the


    bedside, looking down at Hazel with contempt.


    "Listen up. Since you''re back, you''re going to take care of her. And cut it out with the trash talk about


    Aaliyah. You''re no match for her, and you''d do well to remember that," Jesper warned.


    His words sent a shiver down my spine.


    I had underestimated him!


    It seemed the lessons I paid for him hadn''t gone to waste after all.


    "So what?" Jessica retorted defiantly.


    Jesper smirked coldly, "You''ll see ''so what'' when it''s toote. Just take care of her and keep your


    mouth shut."


    With that, he strode out of the room.


    With a huff of discontent, Jessica flung her purse against the wall, giving vent to her frustration.


    I lost interest in the drama unfolding and handed the phone back to Hannah.


    Hannah chuckled, "Looks like Jesper actually has a sense of justice!"


    I snorted dismissively, "Hardly. He''s just smarter than Jessica. Hospitals are hotbeds for gossip. It''s too


    easy to slip up."


    "Seems like Jerome''s really gone underground."


    I thought for a moment, picked up my phone, and dialed Dalton. He answered promptly, his tone


    respectful, "Ms. Wilburn!"


    I got straight to the point. "Dalton, I might have a lead for you. It could help with your investigation."


    Dalton was all ears. "Go ahead."


    I ryed the incident about Hazel visiting Evan''s memorial and the burns she suffered, and then I


    borated on how Hazel was particrly dependent on Jerome.


    Dalton perked up, asked a few more questions, thanked me, and hung up.


    Hannah looked at me approvingly. "Aaliyah, your thinking is always one step ahead!"


    "It just urred to me! With our limited resources, it''s best to let the police handle it."


    I considered it and then said, "I have a feeling Jerome already has a way to keep tabs on things at


    home. Let''s wait and discuss it with Logan when he gets to Silverdale City." Updated at


    Dra§Þ??§àvels.c§àm


    "Wait, he''sing too? How do you know?" Hannah was surprised.


    "Catherine let it slip when she calledst night. She''sing back today too," I informed her.


    I gave Hannah a knowing look and hinted, "Anything''s possible. Who knows?"

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    Chapter 352


    Hannah couldn''t contain her smirk when she heard me, teasingly remarking, "Well, I''ll be darned. Even


    Logan, the eternal bachelor, is finally falling in love."


    "The right person at the right moment¡ªanything is possible. Love knows no boundaries, it can


    transcend borders and societal norms. Who knows, maybe you''ll be struck by cupid''s arrow out of the


    blue," I said, nudging Hannah yfully. "I never asked you. Do you have a boyfriend?"


    She shook her head emphatically, dismissing the idea. "Nope, ain''t got the time for that kind of hassle."


    "Hassle? How can you call it a hassle? Love is supposed to be sweet," I countered.


    Despite our new acquaintance, Hannah and I clicked instantly. We were like peanut butter and jelly¡ª


    perfect together. In my eyes, she was like the little sister I never had.


    She rolled her eyes at my idealism. "Oh, please. Sweet? I''ve seen ''sweet'' and let me tell you, it isn''t


    always a piece of cake. Just take a look at yourself¡ªhow ''sweet'' is it going for you? Nearly got yourself


    wiped off the map because of it."


    It was clear she cared, even if she had a funny way of showing it. Her ribbing came from a ce of


    affection.


    I was momentarily lost for words.


    After a while, I sighed and said, "Yeah, my life could be considered a cautionary tale. It''s so unusual,


    it''s borderline legendary. Perhaps when the shades of old age set in, I''ll pen down my experiences in a


    book¡ªa beacon of guidance for saints and sinners alike."


    Hannah giggled, then said, "I''ve got to hand it to our boss¡ªtalk about loyalty!"


    Without thinking, I blurted out, "Which boss?"


    I immediately realized I''d walked right into her trap.


    She coolly replied, "Don''t you know? Are you ying dumb? The antique he wears on his wrist has


    been there for years. He was nearly a goner thest time he got hurt, and his first thought upon waking


    was to find that thing. Drove us all nuts."


    "Got hurt?" I caught the serious part of her story and asked in shock.


    She nced at me and downyed it, "Yeah, just an injury."


    Quickly trying to shift my focus, she continued, "Thankfully, one of our squad was sharp enough to find


    and fix it. It''s all wrinkled and ugly now, but he treasures it like it''s priceless. Don''t you know who he''s


    devoted to? Who else could it be?"


    My face flushed with embarrassment as I tried to deflect, "Cut it out! your boss is a catch¡ªdon''t start


    rumors!"


    "Aaliyah, be honest. Did you two have a thing? Why else would he be so devoted to the owner of that


    bracelet?" she prodded.


    I quickly cut off her curiosity. "Some questions don''t need answers."


    But Hannah wouldn''t let it go. She sidled up to me with a mischievous grin. "Come on, spill the beans.


    It''ll save us from guessing! Besides, those of us close to him know how important that bracelet is, yet


    no one dares to ask!"


    I shot her a reproachful look. "No one dares to ask him, so you ask me? I don''t know a thing. I hardly


    know him!"


    Sheughed and leaned in closer. "Oh,e on! That''s a heartless thing to say. If you''re not close,


    why would he have me protect you? Out with it!"


    Just then, Probert came running up. "Mommy, Grandma asked me to tell you that dinner''s ready!"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I quickly grabbed Probert, my little lifesaver, and instructed Hannah, "Time to eat, no more chattering.


    My lips are sealed!"


    I cast a relieved nce at Probert, inwardly musing, my little one''s always got my back.


    Otherwise, I''d have no defense against Hannah''s probing questions.


    Dr?§Þan§àvels


    "Why?" Probert asked with innocent, wide eyes.


    Hannah mimicked my earlier tone, "Noment!"

 Chapter 353

    Chapter 353


    I hurriedly rose to make room for her at the table, and she didn''t hesitate, washing her hands and


    sliding into the seat with an air of familiarity.


    Dad beamed at her, his warm gaze a reflection of the familialfort. "You girlsing back home


    together is such a rare sight these days. Lord knows, I could count your visits on one hand over thest


    few years."


    Catherine, ever the one to stir the pot, quipped, "Well, if it wasn''t for Allie''s mysterious ailments keeping


    her off the grid, how could I possibly make ns to return with her?"


    Her words seemed to strike a nerve, as Jan¡¯s face twitched, his expression souring.


    But Catherine paid his grimace no mind, continuing unabashedly, "I only found outst night that Allie


    wasing back to Silverdale City today, so I shifted my work schedule around just to make it for


    dinner. And it''s not just for the pleasure of yourpany¡ªthere''s some business to attend to!"


    "Have you made it home yet?" Dad inquired, a touch of concern in his voice. "Your father doesn''t even


    know you''re back, does he?"


    "I was just too eager to get a bite of this feast! Besides," she turned to Dad with a mischievous glint in


    her eye, "Galen, I''m here to cozy up to you, after all!"


    Without waiting for an invitation, Catherine grabbed a fork and dove into the meal before her, savoring


    a mouthful of Mom''s cooking with sheer delight. Sheplimented with gusto, "My queen, no one


    cooks like you. I haven''t had a meal this delicious in ages. Truth be told, the moment I heard Allie was


    Jan looked on with thinly veiled disdain.


    Mom simply responded with a kind smile, heaping more food onto Catherine¡¯s te. "Then eat up,


    dear! Help yourself to as much as you like."


    Catherine indulged heartily, praising the food with no care for decorum, while Jan''s contempt grew


    ever clearer.


    Clearly, Catherine had stolen his spotlight.


    "Galen, about the business matter I mentioned. It involves you," Catherine said between bites.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Oh? Your work... How can I assist?" Dad asked, curiosity piqued.


    "Thepany''s got a big promotional project in the works, a tribute piece following the ambassador''s


    international tour."


    Catherine was serious despite the casual setting. "They''ve shortlisted a few themes, and we''re looking


    to spotlight our cultural heritage. I pitched our centennial Oldtown Avenue, and it caught their attention.


    The team did some scouting there, including our town."


    "And no one thought to contact me?" Dad asked, a hint of urgency in his voice.


    "It was all undercover, just some preliminary shots," she exined, then added, seeing Dad''s concern,


    "Don''t worry, I had our Oldtown Avenue''s back. I touted its uniqueness and historical richness. It''s still


    umercialized and pristine. And they''ve decided it''s perfect. So I''m here to discuss it with you first."


    Dad was intrigued. "Well, this is marvelous! It''s like you''ve read my mind! I''ve been wanting to produce


    a documentary on this and even applied for approval from the cultural and tourism department. I never


    imagined we''d converge on the same idea!"


    Catherine beamed with pride. "Exactly. I''ve got to do what I can for Oldtown Avenue''s growth. After all,


    one day I''ll be a stakeholder in this street too. Wouldn''t make sense not to push for our own benefit,


    right?"


    The room filled with her triumphantughter.


    Dad was teeming with joy. "Catherine, this isn''t just any contribution¡ªit''s a godsend! I''ve got so many


    ideas. Let¡¯s talk after dinner!"


    Dad conceded with a chuckle, "Right, right, you are absolutely correct, my dear. Let''s eat, and then we


    can chat. You''re wee to stay over, Catherine."


    I rolled my eyes and said, "Dad, she lives next door!"


    After the meal, Dad eagerly pulled Catherine aside to discuss the ns, and of course, Jan wasn¡¯t


    about to miss out on the opportunity, sticking close as they headed to the study. Read at


    I knew what he was up to. He was sizing up the proverbial bread that mighte from such a


    promotion.


    I snorted. No matter how grand the profit, it had nothing to do with him.


    Whether it was Silverdale City or Goldenvale Town, the spoils would be unattainable Jan. He might


    salivate over it, but he would never get a taste.

 Chapter 354

    Chapter 354


    We piled into the car, and I instructed the driver to drive straight to the hospital. I needed to check in on


    Addrion.


    Walking into Addrion''s room, I was taken aback. Not only was Addrion there, but so were Ronan and


    Logan, plus another guy with tanned skin and brown eyes.


    Hannah lit up at the sight of him, eximing, "Larkin, you''re back?"


    Larkin stood up, his greeting lukewarm, simply saying, "Yeah, I''m back."


    "Did you finish the mission?" Hannah prodded.


    "Done," Larkin replied, still with that same nonchnt demeanor.


    Addrion, spotting me, perked up. "Aaliyah, you''re back?"


    With a smile, I sauntered over, a pinch of guilt gnawing at my conscience. I had promised to visit


    Tatyanna when I was back in Goldenvale Town, but I''d dropped the ball.


    "Just got back today! Came straight to see you," I said, gesturing for Hannah to set down our big bag of


    fruit on the coffee table.


    "I knew you''de through!" Addrion chuckled, taking a bunch of grapes from Logan to make room for


    me. "Grab a seat!"


    Logan, looking thoroughly bummed, shuffled over to the bed and flopped down.


    I took a seat, and Ronan introduced me to Larkin. I nodded along with a polite smile.


    Turning to Addrion, I noted he looked much better and even a bit plumper than before. "Big bro, you''re


    looking good!"


    "Being home does wonders. Good food, good sleep, plus top-notch care. The docs say I''ll be out of


    here in no time," Addrion reported, "I should be discharged soon."


    I quickly chimed in, "I didn''t get a chance to see Tatyanna on this trip."


    "No worries, a few days won''t make a difference!" Addrion grinned. "Heard you had another brush with


    death?"


    Casting a nce at Ronan, I gave a self-deprecating smirk. "Seems like I''m always racing with the


    Grim Reaper."


    Logan, from his spot on the bed, snorted. "You seem to be a trouble ma."


    Larkin, hearing Logan''sment, gave me a curious look.


    "What can I do? It''s always something," I shrugged, trying to downy their concern.


    "It''s not the thieves in the night that scare you. It''s the ones that keeping back," Logan quipped,


    then turned to Ronan. "Might as well pair Larkin with Hannah. One in the light, one in the shadows."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Hannah''s eyes sparkled at the suggestion.


    Ronan pondered for a moment, then said to Larkin, "You got any unfinished business?"


    Larkin shook his head. "Nope, I''m all clear."


    "Then pair up with Hannah. You two can work that ''light and shadow'' angle without being too tired."


    Ronan instructed. "Be ready to move on my say-so."


    "Sure, I don''t need a break," Larkin responded, his expression unreadable.


    Such a poker face.


    But the talk of adding more security around me made me feel uneasy. "Isn''t this all a bit much? It''s not


    that serious, is it? No need to go allmando on me. It''s freaking me out!"


    Logan gave me a look, the shadow veiling his expression suggesting more unsaid words.


    Ronan, however, exined, "Better safe than sorry. Jerome''s still atrge, and there''s no sign of him


    skipping town. We can''t predict his moves, which means there''s risk."


    Then he asked casually, "How''d you get out today?"


    He was fishing, wondering how I''d slipped away from Jan''s watchful eye.


    "Smart move," Addrion said, giving me a thumbs-up.


    Iughed, then continued, "Actually, there''s been a lot going down in Goldenvale Town. Been meaning


    to catch you guys up."


    Hannah jumped in, "I''ve sent the video of Hazel''s mishap to the boss already."


    I added, "Looks like Hazel was seriously injured! Could that be useful?"


    "Definitely," Ronan said. "It''s all about leverage." Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    Logan chimed in, "No worries. I''m timing the release just right."


    "And what about Goldenvale Town?" I asked eagerly.


    "So, I''m not sticking around long?" I couldn''t hide the disappointment in my voice. I had hoped toy


    low for a while longer.

 Chapter 355

    Chapter 355


    When Ronan noticed my spirits gging, heforted me, "You can rest up here for a few days. We


    need to give them some breathing room over at Goldenvale. Once Jan and I have wrapped things


    up here, we''ll turn up the heat on Goldenvale. Jan won''t know what hit him and he''ll be forced to


    make a choice. During this time, you''ll be safer in Silverdale."


    I was impressed by their meticulous nning.


    "I''ve got a hunch that Jesper is more than he seems," I said to Ronan. "He seems to know a lot more


    than he lets on, like he knows exactly why Jan came to Silverdale."


    "Caleb''s got him under control," Logan interjected casually. "Right now, the priority is your safety, Allie.


    As long as you''re fine, we can go all out."


    "I''m not the one who''s scared," I teased, looking at Logan. "It''s not like I''m tying your hands!"


    "You''re quite the little tiger, aren''t you?" Loganplimented me with a chuckle.


    Everyoneughed, and I felt my cheeks warm up with a blush. ncing at Ronan, I saw his smile was


    even brighter.


    After hanging out with Hannah for a bit longer, Ronan urged us to head back. I knew he wanted to


    avoid drawing Jan''s attention prematurely.


    Before we left, I turned to Larkin with a smile and said, "It seems you''ll have your hands full from now


    on, Larkin."


    "Ms. Wilburn, you''re too kind. It''s my duty," he responded with sinct formality, never one to waste


    words.


    Hannah gave Larkin a sneaky wave and whispered, "Catch youter!" as we walked away.


    In the car, I nced at Hannah and teased, "So, love isn''t sweet? Because I''m pretty sure I can smell


    honey in the air."


    "Aaliyah, don''t jump to conclusions. We''re just teammates," Hannah said, trying to cover up.


    "I''m not jumping to anything," I feigned innocence, "I didn''t mention you, so what are you exining


    for?"


    Hannah was speechless for a moment, her face flushed with a hint of embarrassment as she red at


    me. "Seriously!"


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    I changed the subject to spare her any further awkwardness, as she clearly wasn''t ready to admit


    anything. "So, he''s your shadow, huh?¡±


    "Right! I''m by your side and he''s in the shadows not showing his face, but don''t worry, he''s definitely


    not far away!" Hannah said with certainty.


    ¡°I''ll be in Oldtown Avenue for the next few days, hardly venturing out. Tell him to take it easy and rest


    up."


    Hannah''s eyes lit up at the mention of Larkin. "He''s incredibly capable. Among us, he''s the standout¡ª


    brave, meticulous, and decisive. No one can match him. He went to Northern Myanmar on a mission.


    He''s been there for two years, and he just came back!" Hannah continued.


    Northern Myanmar again, it seems like Northern Myanmar was really eventful.


    "No wonder he¡¯s so tanned." I spat out.


    "Tanned? He¡¯s a lot thinner. It''s tough over there!" Hannah exined.


    "Sounds like he had quite the stint in Northern Myanmar," I noted.


    Eventually, I suggested a shortcut back. "It coulde in handy in an emergency," I exined. Re§Ñd at


    Dra§Þan§àvels


    Hannah agreed eagerly. "I''m good with directions. Show me once, and I''ll remember it forever."


    I led the way, and we continued our journey in silence, the narrow path allowing for little else.

 Chapter 356

    Chapter 356


    I halted abruptly, and Hannah darted to my side in an instant. ncing back, I pressed a finger to my


    lips, signaling her to keep silent.


    She nodded in understanding, and we stood there, holding our breath, straining our ears to catch any


    sound.


    Truth be told, it wasn''t all thatte, but since only a third of the usual residents lived along Oldtown


    Avenue, and they were scattered at that, it felt muchter.


    Thene was eerily quiet and one could hear a pin drop.


    After a long pause with no further sounds, Hannah gave me a puzzled look, spreading her hands and


    shrugging her shoulders in confusion.


    I remained silent, motionless, and she didn''t dare move, continuing to listen intently to our


    surroundings.


    Moments ago, I was certain I''d heard the wooden gate in my backyard creaking, and I knew it wasn''t


    the children ¨C they''d be chattering away cheerfully, not this silent. That thought sent a chill down my


    spine.


    The yard behind my house used to be a small property, long uninhabited and left empty. I''d checked it


    thest time I was here; it had been renovated, separated from my backyard by only a narrow alley.


    That little courtyard was distinctive, with high walls that made it seem secure and mysterious. The gate


    was particrly unique, with a solid wooden structure and an arch overhead, securing the courtyard in


    a way that even during lively times, it seemed isted from the world.


    Inside the courtyard stood a quaint two-story building, its windows carefully restored to their original


    state during the renovation.


    A small garden hugged the wall, nted with a row of palm trees, and a wooden perg was draped


    with wisteria. Below it sat a wooden tea table nked by a couple of rocking chairs.


    I was especially fond of this view.


    Legend had it that the courtyard was once the dwelling of a bookkeeper and his wife from the grand


    house that my family owned. After his untimely death, his widow lived there alone. Despite being well-


    off, she kept to herself to avoid gossip, making the courtyard very private.


    She rarely interacted with the outside world, living with just a maid who handled all errands.


    Following the widow''s death, the property was left to the maid, who lived there, married, and raised


    children, until her son took her to an apartment in the city, leaving the courtyard vacant.


    It was the first property my father acquired, which led to him owning nearly half the street.


    I thought I had heard the gate creak, but it was so faint, I couldn''t be sure it was from this courtyard.


    At this hour, it couldn''t be my father wandering here in the dark, and I didn''t believe there would be


    thieves¡ªthere was nothing to steal.


    I''d have to suggest to my dad that we install cameras, not just on the main street but in these alleys


    too.


    I gestured for Hannah to follow and stepped lightly toward the courtyard.


    Approaching the gate, I suddenly heard a slight noise, as if something was being moved.


    Hannah heard it too; she grabbed my arm and nodded at me.


    Honestly, without Hannah by my side, I would have been really scared.


    Then, another sound of something being dragged reached us, and I was sure it came from the direction


    of the courtyard.


    We both moved towards the sound, my heart racing, legs turning to jelly.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    As we got closer, I stopped to listen, but there was silence.


    I tugged Hannah''s sleeve, motioning her to move forward. She nodded in understanding and we


    tiptoed through the narrow alley. Pulling me behind her, she then pressed her body against the wall


    while leaning toward the wooden door.

 Chapter 357

    Chapter 357


    As Hannah and I reached the garden gate, I peered through the sliver of an opening. Sure enough,


    someone was inside.


    We exchanged silent nces.


    Hannah signaled for me to stay put while she crept forward, ascending the two stone steps to the


    entrance. She pressed her ear against the door for a moment, and I drew closer as well.


    The gap was too narrow for me to see anything inside.


    With a daring nudge, Hannah gently pushed the door ajar further. My heart raced, fists clenched,


    fearing we¡¯d make a sound.


    The door opened a bit more, but the darkness within veiled the interior from view.


    I was about to push the door wider when Hannah yanked me back and I heard a faint whispering voice


    inside!


    Despite the intermittent sounds, I recognized Jan¡¯s voice immediately. I knew him all too well.


    My nerves calmed, reced with curiosity. What could anyone be up to in the middle of the night?


    I held my breath, straining to hear who Jan was speaking with and about what.


    I was sure about who was inside now!


    I overheard Jan asking, "In a nutshell, what does Galen do every day?"


    The reply came from Gemma, "Sir, Galen goes out daily. The missus says he works at VitalAxis


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Pharmaceuticals, alwayses homete. I find it odd, sir. If he''s working, why doesn''t he ever bring


    any paperwork home?"


    Gemma was certainly keeping tabs on my father''sings and goings. I leaned in, straining to hear


    better in the pitch ck.


    Jan prodded further, "Who does he meet with often?"


    Gemma answered, ¡°He had lots of visitors. But mostly, it''s the Damon family from next door. They chew


    the fat about nothing in particr, mostly kids¡¯ schooling and such. I used to record them, but it was


    fruitless, so I stopped. Few folks from the pharma industry pop in, but they chat briefly and leave. I


    suspect... he doesn¡¯t discuss business at home."


    At this, a chill ran down my spine. Gemma was more observant than I gave her credit for.


    "What do you mean by ''doesn''t discuss business at home''?" Jan pressed.


    "Just that, sir. He never talks shop in the house," Gemma said cautiously.


    "Why do you think that? Found something? Or..."


    Gemma continued, "Just a hunch!"


    "Why not follow him to see where he actually goes?" Jan sounded irked.


    "I''ve thought about tailing him a few times, but his wife is sharp. If he steps out, and I try to follow, she''d


    call me back for chores."


    Gemma''s tone was sycophantic but sincere, "By the time I''d be free to leave, he would be long gone."


    "Does he drive, or does he walk?" Jan asked.


    "I''ve noticed it¡¯s usually the chauffeur driving him. He seldom walks unless someonees to see him.


    Then they''d stroll and talk."


    Gemma borated, "He has a habit of walking down the street after dinner. Those looking for him


    picked up on this habit and would choose that time to discuss matters. I couldn''t hear what they were


    saying while walking."


    She was thorough in her reporting.


    "Did they mention how much the government might pay for Oldtown Avenue?" Jan''s question was


    blunt.


    I snorted involuntarily. How desperate must someone be to unabashedly reveal such a greedy side,


    asking so directly?


    "No specifics, but I overheard them talking about ownership rights of the street, suggesting it could all


    belong to Galen. He was adamant about not selling. I got the impression he wanted to persuade the


    remaining residents to leave and take over their properties."


    Jan muttered, "Hmph... seems the old coot''s got a hefty appetite for greed himself!"

 Chapter 358

    Chapter 358


    I couldn''t help but sigh. Gemma seemed to know more than I did. I had no idea my dad was still


    actively buying up the remaining properties.


    But I was aware that most of the big fish on the block were already in my dad''s pocket.


    The small fries that stuck around were mostly the genuinely poor old-timers. Then there were the


    opportunists who heard about the redevelopment ns and wanted to cash in. A few genuinely loved


    the neighborhood. And of course, there were those with businesses on Main Street.


    Dad had mentioned itst time: for the poor old-timers, he was willing to negotiate. If they wanted out,


    he''d offer them a sweet deal. If they wanted to stay, he¡¯d refurbish their homes for free. After all,


    renovating the area was part of his grand vision.


    For those who truly loved living here, Dad had policies in ce to let them stay putfortably. Every


    town needed its residents, after all.


    The ones he really needed to reel in were the opportunists. Dad called them cancer, a potential


    problem for the future.


    Of course, my dad wasn¡¯t about to be fleeced by them.


    Peering through the door crack once more, my eyes, now ustomed to the dark, made out Jan


    sitting in a wicker chair under the wisteria, rocking gently.


    And there, standing right in front of him, was that portly figure.


    I cursed under my breath. That loyal old hound.


    As soon as Gemma heard Jan use my dad of greed, she chimed in, "No kidding! I remember him


    chatting with the missus, saying if he got the whole street, it would be a game-changer, set for life once


    it''s developed. I heard that''s where the real money''s at!"


    Gemma''s tone was thick with envy, "Sir, your father-inw is seriously loaded! Someday, all this will be


    yours! You''re the real lucky one!"


    She was shamelessly buttering up Jan.


    Though I couldn''t see Jan''s face, I could imagine his smugness.


    He maintained his lofty boss persona, even his voice dripped with nobility as he deftly changed the


    subject, "How often has Mr. Richardson who you mentionedst time dropped by?"


    My heart leapt. He was onto Bet.


    Gemma hurriedly answered, "A few times, but only dined the once. The other times, he¡¯de to y


    chess with Galen, asionally muttering something iprehensible. They didn¡¯t like to be


    disturbed... I couldn¡¯t get close!"


    Jan was silent for a while before he said to Gemma, "Next time... if Galen wants to go out and the


    missus tries to stop you, use some of your tricks. You know what I mean, right?"


    I tensed up, ncing at Hannah, who clearly heard as well and gently pressed my arm.


    "Huh?" Gemma let out a surprised squawk.


    "You know, prepare something to help her snooze for a bit," Jan exined.


    I nearly exploded with rage. This scoundrel was plotting to harm my mom!


    "Ah... Sir, I... I wouldn¡¯t dare!" Gemma''s voice was quivering.


    "You wouldn¡¯t dare? Then what use are you to me? You''ve taken so much of my money, and at crunch


    time, you say you wouldn¡¯t dare?" Jan''s tone turned icy.


    "But..."


    "But what? You think just eavesdropping is enough to earn my money?" Jan pressed scornfully.


    "I¡¯ve done all I could!" Gemma protested weakly.


    "All you could? And what¡¯s that worth? What valuable thing have you given me?" Jan grilled her,


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Don¡¯t you know how much I¡¯ve paid you? You took the money, but I don¡¯t have what I need. Does that


    seem right to you?"


    Gemma stuttered, "But... this is too..."


    "Too what? I¡¯m not asking you to kill her. Just let her sleep for a while. Don¡¯t you get it?" Jan pressed


    on disdainfully.


    Fuming, I clenched my fists, ready to barge in and give him a piece of my mind.


    Hannah held me back, signaling me to stay quiet and patting my shoulder.


    I ground my teeth and kept listening.


    "If you can¡¯t do even this, then prepare to pack your bags! But before you go, return what you took from


    me. Fair¡¯s fair, right? I''m under no obligation to buy your son a car or a house!" Jan spat coldly.


    Seems like Jan had indeed invested heavily, sparing no expense on Gemma.


    "But... but you''re Marissa''s man. She just wanted me to keep an eye on the old folks. She never said


    anything about... about drugging them." Gemma started to hedge.


    I held my breath, listening intently.

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    Chapter 359


    "I can''t risk it, sir," Gemma¡¯s voice trembled with a blend of fear and plea, "If... if I get caught, I won''t be


    able to talk my way out of it. That would be the end for me!"


    I thought to myself, Gemma wasn''t as senile as she appeared.


    The chair creaked as Jan rose from his seat and took a step back, which I noticed as I peered over.


    "Do you seriously think, after all this time, after sending me all those recordings and photos, that you


    can simply walk away unscathed?" Jan''s voice wasced with threat. "You''ve been taking money


    from both sides. Did you really think it would be that easy? Who do you reckon they''ll believe ¨C you or


    me?"


    "Sir... you... you can''t do this..." Gemma''s voice had reduced to a mere whisper.


    "You''ve been ying dirty for too long to pretend you''re the good guy now. It''s your choice whether you


    keep going or not," Jan said before reclining into his chair again.


    After a tense silence, I saw Jan lift his hand slightly.


    Then I heard him continue, "There''s $50,000 on this card. If you want to keep working, it''s yours. If not,


    just let me know and return what you''ve already taken. We''ll call it square, like nothing ever happened.


    But... as you know, without returning that money, I can''t let you off the hook that easily. Think about it."


    I saw Jan stand up, ready to leave, and I quickly stepped back.


    But then I heard Gemma call out, "Sir... uh, sir, you¡¯ll keep your word, right? If I find out where Galen


    went, then..."


    I closed my eyes in frustration, silently uttering curses. Quickly peering through the gap again, I saw


    Jan indeed on his feet.


    Once he heard Gemma relenting, he turned and said, "You can keep your position here, and I''ll throw


    in another $30,000."


    "Thank you, sir! I have one more question!" Gemma''s voice quivered with a mix of joy and servility.


    "Shoot!" Jan''s tone was icy.


    "It''s just... why hasn''t Marissa been answering my calls?" Gemma''s voicecked any confidence.


    I inwardly scoffed. Marissa? She probably wouldn''t be taking calls ever again.


    But since Gemma asked, it was clear she didn''t know Marissa was dead.


    Jan''s voice was sinister as he asked, "Why are you calling her?"


    Gemma replied unsteadily, "It''s nothing... I just haven''t spoken to her in a while, and I miss her. Her


    mom''s been asking about her too, saying she never picks up! They are quite close. And after all, you''re


    her..."


    Jan cut her off abruptly, "I don''t want to hear another word about her from you. Keep your mouth


    shut about things you shouldn''t discuss. Got it?"


    "I..."


    "If I hear you mention her again, you won''t like my response. You''re here to work and her affairs are


    none of your business. From now on, if anyone asks, you don''t know her. Is that clear?"


    "Alright," Gemma replied reluctantly.


    "Don''t bring up Marissa around me. Whatever I do with her is none of your concern. Besides, she''s


    nothing to me. Remember, knowing too much is never good for you," Jan dismissed any connection


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    with Marissa.


    "Also, stop calling her. She''s got her own life. She took the kids abroad for a vacation and is having the


    time of her life. Why bother her with calls?"


    "Abroad? No wonder. Lucky girl," Gemma said with a hint of envy.


    I snorted coldly. Going abroad was an understatement. She had taken a one-way trip to the great


    beyond. How joyous indeed! No luck could everpete with such a fortunate fate.


    Jan sneered, "Just like you, all she knew was how to spend money!"


    "So, about that $30,000..." Greedced Gemma''s voice.


    "You''ll get what''s yours!" Jan snapped, clearly out of patience.


    It seemed that money could indeed seduce anyone. Gemma had made her choice, opting for the card.


    Then I heard the receding sound of footsteps. I grabbed Hannah, my heart racing, ready to make a


    quick exit...

 Chapter 360

    Chapter 360


    I tugged at Hannah''s hand, skipping down the front steps in a frenzied flight, and we ended up heading


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    the wrong way.


    The alley by the house offered no cover. There was no ce to hide. By the time I realized our mistake,


    it was toote to double back¡ªthe footsteps from the courtyard were already rmingly close, right at


    the front door.


    Frozen in shock, a scream nearly escaped my lips as someone clutched my arm with hisrge hands.


    A hushed "Shh" sounded in my ear. It was Hannah who mped a hand over my mouth. The person


    yanked me back a few steps, shoving me down behind a public trash bin.


    Trying to make myself as small as possible, I peeked through the gap between two bins, desperate for


    a glimpse of what was happening.


    The person moved swiftly, dragging Hannah across the street to the opposite side of my hiding spot,


    and pinned her against a wall. The person''s body obscured our view...


    Just around the corner from the courtyard gate, the person and Hannah were entangled in what


    seemed like a passionate embrace, perfectly mimicking a couple lost in a kiss under the cover of


    darkness.


    It hit me then¡ªthey were a diversion. Anyoneing out of the courtyard would have their attention


    hijacked by the silhouettes,pletely missing my presence.


    Meanwhile, the courtyard gate creaked softly as it was gently pushed open, but Jan quickly


    retreated back inside.


    It seemed he too was startled by the unexpected sight.


    After a few eerily silent seconds, Jan asked carefully, "Who''s there? What are you doing?"


    The person outside turned toward Jan, snapping irritably, "Mind your own damn business!"


    It was spot-on¡ªthe annoyed retort of a man whose romantic moment had been interrupted.


    Jan, not daring to make another peep, directed his strides purposefully towards my family''s back


    door.


    A couple of minutester, Gemma also came out from the courtyard. She almost looked our way when


    the man barked another warning, "What are you looking at?"


    The man scurried back inside, shutting the door with a sense of urgency.


    I slumped to the ground, gasping for air, a silent prayer of thanks escaping my heart. That was close!


    Only then did Hannah rush over, pulling me to my feet. "It''s okay! We''re safe now!"


    When I looked again, the mysterious man was gone.


    "Was that Larkin?" I asked Hannah, still catching my breath.


    She nodded, her voiceced with joy, "Yes!"


    "Man, thank heavens for him! How did I not realize he was following us?" I patted my chest, in awe of


    our luck.


    Hannah nced at the back door and whispered, "We should go. We can''t use the back now."


    I agreed, "Right, we''ll have to circle around to the front. Larkin''s gone."


    She pointed toward the courtyard. Nodding, I thought that might be for the best. Then, pulling Hannah


    along, we quickly left the ce of danger.


    Soon enough, we were strolling through the main entrance as if nothing had happened, chatting


    merrily. As expected, I found my dad sitting in the living room, engaged in conversation with Jan. I


    feigned surprise, "Why are you guys still up?"


    Jan piped up first, his voice soft, "I tried lying down for a bit but couldn''t sleep, so I came back down.


    Galen was here too. Where did you two wander off to?"


    His probing gaze swept over me, and I could tell he was not pleased with ourte-night escapade.


    I silently rejoiced that Hannah and I had taken the long way home via the front entrance.


    "We bumped into an old friend from our childhood, Darius, and he dragged us to a bar for a bit!" I


    blurted out a casual lie, turning to my dad, "Remember Darius, Dad? Seems like he''s doing pretty well


    for himself!"


    My dad yed along perfectly, "How could I forget? Their family moved away years ago. Saw Darius a


    couple of times afterward. He got into trading, right? Haven''t seen him in ages!"


    "Yeah, that Darius!" I said, grabbing a ss from the table and downing a gulp of water. "Just can''t


    keep up like I used to. Are you guys going to chat all night? What time did Catherine leave?"


    With a rapid-fire change of subject, I sessfully redirected the conversation to Catherine.


    As expected, my dad took the bait and opened up like a floodgate.

 Chapter 361

    Chapter 361


    My Dad chuckled and said, ¡°About 9 o''clock. That girl''s nning something big, and this idea of hers is


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    just too good to be true!¡±


    I grinned and asked, ¡°So are you excited? You don¡¯t happen to have a new scheme brewing, do you?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely! If this thing takes off, I¡¯m telling you, pumpkin, we¡¯ll be sitting pretty!¡± His eyes lit up,


    dancing with infectious enthusiasm. ¡°Just think, it¡¯ll save us a fortune in advertising costs. It¡¯s like


    getting an official endorsement. Imagine the reach that would have over our own efforts. Then we could


    negotiate even better terms with the state.¡±


    ¡°You sure know how to y the game, Dad.¡± I set down my ss and sat down beside him. ¡°We should


    be doing this kind of promotion more often!¡±


    ¡°No, no, you¡¯re underestimating Catherine¡¯s project. You''ve got to consider their angle¡ªthey¡¯re creating


    a tribute video for an international ambassadorship. That¡¯s the real hook!¡± Dad said with a beaming


    smile.


    Jan remained a silent spectator, listening with rapt attention, yet chose not to partake in the


    conversation.


    ¡°So, are you thinking of a roundabout way to make a ssh?¡± I inquired.


    ¡°Exactly! There¡¯s no shortage of folks here who idolize anything from abroad. If the video catches the


    attention of the foreigners, how can it not catch fire back home? If the internationals are watching,


    locals will be curious to check it out. I¡¯m just worried we won¡¯t be ready for the rush!¡±


    Dad leaned back into the couch, rubbing his head. ¡°Who would have thought? This is just too good. I


    need to figure out how to maximize this free publicity and extract even more value from it.¡±


    He was so full of conviction, brimming with the energy of a young man.


    ¡°But don¡¯t overdo it, Dad!¡± I said with genuine concern. ¡°You¡¯re not as young as you used to be.¡±


    ¡°Opportunities like this don¡¯te twice! If we miss this, who knows when the next one wille?¡±


    ¡°If you keep thinking like that, opportunities will seem endless. When will you ever retire if you try to


    seize them all?¡±


    Dad sighed and tapped his head. ¡°The years are catching up with me. I''m not as strong as I once was.


    Eventually, it¡¯s all going to fall to you kids. So, I have to seize all the time to expand the value! I''ll build a


    good foundation for you guys, to spare you any undue exhaustion in the future!¡±


    His words almost brought me to tears. I understood that this was his heartfelt message to me.


    Of course, he definitely didn¡¯t include Jan. He wasying the groundwork for my future and that of


    the kids.


    But Jan smiled contentedly. ¡°Dad, you¡¯re a visionary! But Allie¡¯s right, don¡¯t push yourself too hard.


    We¡¯re here to help. Goldenvale Town isn¡¯t far, and we can share the load!¡±


    I looked at him, impressed by his smooth talk. But where did he get that confidence? His eagerness


    seemed a little out of ce. What did all this have to do with him?


    Even Hannah couldn¡¯t bear it any longer and interjected, ¡°Mr. Wilburn, Miss Wilburn, I''m heading


    upstairs. I¡¯ll leave you to your chat.¡±


    Dad nodded with a warm smile, ¡°Sure thing. Go rest up.¡±


    I wrapped my arm around Dad¡¯s, leaning close. ¡°I¡¯ll stay a bit longer with you.¡±


    Hannah waved and gave Jan a slight nod before heading toward the backyard.


    Dad looked at me lovingly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired?¡±


    ¡°Tired? I get tired just walking a few steps, but I want to hear more about your grand n!¡± I teased.


    Dadughed heartily. ¡°Darlin¡¯, you should know. This could put our Oldtown Avenue on the international


    map. Opportunities like this are rare! If we y our cards right, we won¡¯t have to worry about being off


    the beaten path.¡±


    ¡°Leveraging your strengths is your trademark!¡± I praised him sincerely. ¡°You attract attention from all


    corners without even trying!¡±


    ¡°This is a gift from the heavens, sweetheart! Of course, I¡¯m thrilled. Once this takes off, the business


    opportunities will be endless,¡± Dad said, unable to contain his excitement. ¡°That will secure a solid


    foundation for you guys.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t trying to hide his enthusiasm, not even from Jan. Anyone could tell he was treating Jan


    as a member of the family.


    Jan looked pleased as punch, as if he owned the neighborhood himself, radiating a triumphant air.


    I couldn¡¯t help but snicker to myself. Tomorrow might well be Jan¡¯s fall from grace.

 Chapter 362

    Chapter 362


    That night, sleep eluded me, nerves inexplicably on edge.


    Jan and Gemma''s conversation tossed and turned in my mind. Gemma was a ticking time bomb,


    and if she exploded, it would be my dearest who''d suffer. I couldn''t let my parents be threatened


    because of me. Yet, it wasn''t time to cast her out entirely.


    Moreover, if Gemma was involved, undoubtedly others would be too. The only viable solution seemed


    to be reversing the roles, turning her into my pawn. With that thought, my mind settled somewhat.


    As for how to do it, I needed the right opportunity.


    The next day.


    Before I could even rub the sleep from my eyes, I was jolted awake by persistent knocking.


    Groggy and grumpy, I opened the door to find Jan, all buttoned-up and proper. I hadined


    about his snoring the night before, prompting him to retreat to the guest room.


    I figured he wanted his own space too. After all, Goldenvale Town was a mess.


    "What''s up?" I asked, not hiding my irritation. "Why so dressed up? You don''t sleep or what?"


    "Allie, still half-asleep?" he said with a cating smile. "Did you have a rough night? It''s nine already,


    and we''ve got important stuff today!"


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Nine?" I was startled, apparently having overslept. But I was still petnt. "So what? I''m going back to


    bed. You and Dad can handle it."


    After that, I tried to shut the door, but he wedged his foot in, "Honey, it really is crucial today. Dad says


    you need to be there. We''lle back and you can sleep all you want, okay?"


    I turned, flopped back onto the bed, and he rushed in, cajoling me with all his might.


    I just wanted to test how desperate he was. Why else would I let him sweet-talk me? The sight of him


    was bing as repulsive as maggots.


    "Enough!" I finally snapped, exasperated. "Get out, I''m getting ready!"


    He reluctantly left after a few more reminders.


    Once the door closed, I opened my eyes wide, scoffing internally. He really was desperate.


    After freshening up and changing, I heard a phone ring at the door. Jan must have been waiting


    outside.


    While brushing my teeth, I leaned closer to the door. Jan was on the phone, his voice hoarse with


    annoyance, "Jessica, cut the crap. If you don''t want the job, just say it. You can leave right now.


    Remember, I can make sure you''re gone for good!"


    I sneered silently, returning to the bathroom. Without listening further, I knew Jessica was still causing a


    fuss. Hazel must have been restless all night.


    Dressed and ready, I found Jan pacing by the door. As soon as he saw me, his face lit up with


    feigned cheer, "Let''s go downstairs! Galen''s been waiting!"


    I grunted an acknowledgment and headed down.


    Dad was indeed in the living room, sipping his morning tea and browsing the paper. Mom hurried over.


    "Come have some breakfast. You can''t start the day on an empty stomach. Who knows what lunch will


    be like? If it''s not to your liking, juste on home and I''ll have something ready."


    "Isn''t Dad in a rush?" I deliberately sounded annoyed. "I''m still not awake, for heaven''s sake."


    Dad chuckled, "I set it for ten, so there''s time. Come have breakfast."


    I nced at Jan, then headed straight for the dining room where Hannah was already sitting.


    "Did you sleep wellst night?" I asked her. Deep down, I knew she probably hadn''t. She had left early


    the night before, not just to escape Jan''s droning but also to cover for me.


    As someone who''d been there, I understood what that embrace, from the man she pined for, meant to


    Hannah. Predictably, at my question, her cheeks flushed, and she nodded vigorously, "Very well. It''s so


    quiet here!"


    I smirked, thinking how the quiet surroundings contrasted with her tumultuous heart.


    Considering we had serious businesster, I joined her for breakfast without further teasing.


    After eating, we set out and arrived at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals just five minutes shy of ten.


    This was my first visit to VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Surprisingly, it was more impressive than I


    imagined.

 Chapter 363

    Chapter 363


    Before my eyes stood VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, a titan dwarfing the quaint Elixir Pharma Limited.


    Jan''s shock was almost palpable.


    My father said to him, "VitalAxis boasts the most advanced tech teams, state-of-the-art manufacturing


    equipment, and an unrivaled saleswork. These ''big three'' are the pirs of VitalAxis'' strength."


    "And what''s holding Mr. Richardson back?" Jan asked, his voice betraying his lingering doubts.


    Dad just chuckled, "Honestly, I wouldn''t want the man to rush his decision."


    With that, he strode ahead into the building.


    We reached Mr. Richardson''s office, but he wasn¡¯t there. Dad, unfazed, suggested, "He''s surely in the


    He gestured to Jan before taking in the office''s surroundings. Opulent yet essential, every article


    seemed handpicked to reflect the pharmaceutical ethos. As I was surveying the room, the door swung


    open and in came Bet Richardson, hisb coat a testament to my father''s guess. He had been in


    theb.


    Upon seeing us, he took off the coat and came over with a cultured smile, "Mr. Wilburn, sorry to keep


    you waiting!"


    "Timing couldn''t be better," my father responded, staying seated.


    Bet approached, and Jan immediately stood up, extending his hand, "Mr. Richardson, it¡¯s a


    pleasure to meet you!"


    Dad quickly introduced, "Mr. Richardson, this is my son-inw, Jan Dawson, the current helmsman


    for Medsafe Liyah Inc. in Goldenvale Town."


    Bet gave Jan a cursory nce, shook his hand with a nonchnt ''hmm'', and then remarked,


    "We''ve met before. At Goldenvale Town''s celebration g, invited by Mayor Arlen!"


    Jan, slightly embarrassed, quickly agreed, "Indeed, Mr. Richardson, what a memory!"


    Bet looked back at my father and said, "But to speak frankly, Mr. Wilburn, Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    doesn''t quite... pique my interest."


    This statement hit like a thunderp, leaving Jan visibly nervous, though his smile didn''t waver, his


    I sat across from them, scrutinizing the two men. One wasposed andmanding, the other


    cautious and ambitious. One exuded an air of confident strategy, the other brimmed with bold


    aspirations. One seemed a stranger in appearance yet familiar in essence. The other was well-known


    in face but enigmatic at heart.


    The disparity in their presence was clear as day, a testament to the fine line between sess and


    failure.


    My observations were detached, beyond the influence of emotion, as if I were an outsider.


    If only Jan had remained the caring and protective man he portrayed himself to be, I would have


    dly been the moth to his me, content to spend my lifetime with him and our children.


    s, he was but a demon masquerading as an angel. No, not even a demon¡ªthat would be too grand


    a title. He was merely a malevolent spirit, deluded in his defiance against the light, destined for


    inevitable ruin.


    The p wasn''t just to his face; it was to mine as well.


    A wave of sadness washed over me, a path of love fraught with hardship. Despite my discontent, my


    choice in partner had been misguided, offering no upliftment.


    Dad, caught off-guard by Mr. Richardson''s blunt remark, chuckled awkwardly, "That''s understandable.


    After all, Medsafe Liyah Inc. isn''t quite on your starting line."


    "No... Mr. Wilburn, you tter me¡ªand you''re too modest. Myck of interest in Medsafe Liyah Inc. isn''t


    about thepany¡ªit''s about the people," Bet dered, dealing Jan a second blow.


    Jan''s face flushed. But then Bet offered a lifeline, "However, Medsafe Liyah Inc. is fortunate to


    be aboard the Wilson Group''s mighty ship."


    This gave Jan a chance to respond, "Indeed! It''s an honor for me!"


    Bet fixed Jan with a piercing stare before his lips curled into a smirk, radiating a sense of yful


    contempt. I didn''t know this Mr. Richardson well, but that smirk? It was one I recognized all too well, a


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    sign of his yful contempt.


    "Let me be frank, Mr. Dawson, this isn''t about your honor. It''s about seizing an opportune moment. A


    convergence of luck. Just as the Wilson Group was venturing into medical equipment projects, they


    turned their attention to Goldenvale Town. Plus, with the local business council behind you, everything


    fell into ce. To leverage that, Mr. Dawson, does show a certain foresight."


    I couldn''t help but snort inwardly. Bet sure had a way with words¡ªwas he praising Jan or me?


    This was a perfect example of how to give a backhandedpliment.

 Chapter 364

    Chapter 364


    Landing a deal with the Wilson Group? That was beyond Jan''s wildest dreams. If anyone deserved


    a pat on the back, it was thisdy right here. Me!


    Of course, I knew Bet was just giving Jan a little nudge.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Jan, grinning like a Cheshire cat, didn''t miss a beat. "Mr. Richardson, you tter me!" He seemed to


    have forgotten just how hard I had to hustle to get us this opportunity.


    Bet didn''t linger on the subject and turned to my dad, "Mr. Wilburn, it seems like small talk isn''t


    getting us anywhere. How about I show everyone around VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals? I know you''re


    familiar with the ce, Mr. Wilburn, but there''s always something new to see."


    Dad was on his feet in a heartbeat. "I''ve been meaning to share some thoughts with you, Bet, just


    never found the right moment. Let''s walk and talk!"


    Bet gestured grandly and led the way, with an energy thatmanded attention.


    Throughout the tour, we saw it all: the assembly lines, the storerooms, the showcase of products, even


    the sales charts. And then, the top secret ¨C a peek at the ultra-secretiveb, usually off-limits to


    outsiders.


    Bet was ying a masterful game of carrot and stick, leaving Jan so bewildered that he couldn''t


    get a word in edgewise.


    Finally, before we headed back to the office, Bet slipped my dad a hefty dose of reassurance.


    "Mr. Wilburn, VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals is a behemoth ¨C that''s the real reason I''ve been hesitant to


    Dad and I caught the subtext immediately.


    "You''ve got that privateb, too, right? Maybe one day you could..."


    "Mr. Wilburn!" Dad was cut off mid-sentence by Bet''s firm interjection, "I''m afraid that''s out of the


    question! Besides, thatb isn''t even in Silverdale City."


    Bet was adamant, and Dad just nodded thoughtfully, not pressing further.


    "Mr. Richardson, is there an alternative path we could take?" Dad probed.


    "There might be," Bet mused, "but it''s never quite satisfactory."


    "Settling for the next best thing?" Dad suggested, "It could bypass the local conflicts and give us a new


    testing ground. Kill two birds with one stone!"


    Bet gave Dad a knowing smile. "Easier said than done! The domestic market is just too small for


    my liking."


    "You''re considering a partnership overseas?" Dad feigned confusion.


    "Not at all!" Bet was quick to squash that idea, "The innovations from myb are mine alone. I


    won''t let outsiders get the jump on them. If they want in, they can handle the marketing and sales!"


    Jan seemed to rx a bit at that.


    "And besides, ourb here is already rolling out new clinical reports. I''m thinking of a dual approach to


    avoid upsetting any shareholders. Some people have difficulty seeing the big picture, and their greed


    makes them unsuitable for significant roles. Mr. Wilburn, if everyone were like you, I''d sleep easy at


    night. No need for all this hassle."


    "Age is catching up with me, and I''m not as strong as I used to be," Dad said, feigning resignation.


    "Nonsense, you''re in your prime! You are my senior. I know you''ve got ns. Since you''re here, let''s


    "But Mr. Wilburn, this won''t be a small investment. And to be honest, I can''t lead the charge. It''s against


    protocol, and I have risks to consider." Bet was clear. "Let''s be frank ¨C in business, I don''t y


    favorites. When necessary, I''ll chase profits and cut losses without a second thought."


    Dadughed heartily, full of admiration for Bet.


    After theugh, Dad nced at Jan, their eyes met, and Jan seemed lost in thought.


    "Mr. Richardson, I think we should continue this discussion elsewhere. After all, we are in VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals," Dad suggested.


    As the three men chuckled, I found myself raising an eyebrow, my inner cynic skeptical about the


    games these sly foxes might be up to.


    Bet stood up, ready to move on. "Then let''s go somewhere else! But let''s not call it a meeting, just


    a casual chat." He emphasized ''casual''.


    Dad and Jan stood up as well. "I''ll pick the ce!"


    "How about Camellia Crest? It''s been a while. Quiet and private," Bet suggested with a look


    towards my dad.


    "Camellia Crest it is!" Dad agreed with a flourish.


    Right then, the office door was knocked urgently, and an elegant secretary stepped in. "Mr. Richardson,


    some of the senior shareholders are here to see you. They insist."


    The room was filled with the tension of unspoken business and the scent of brewing strategy.

 Chapter 365

    Chapter 365


    The assistant hadn''t even finished reporting when the stakeholders were already at the door.


    Without any semnce of politeness, they barged in.


    Leading the pack was a portly middle-aged man, followed by a few sharply dressed gentlemen. The


    group looked formidable, imposing even.


    I couldn''t tell if these were extras from some corporate drama or actual shareholders. Not a single w


    gave them away.


    The portly man shot a nce at me and Jan, then, with an inscrutable smile, addressed Bet,


    "Mr. Richardson, seems like you''re quite the busy man, eh?"


    Bet, cool as a cucumber, gave a slight bow to my father, "Mr. Wilburn, then I won''t keep you. See


    youter!"


    Dad got the hint. "Alright, Mr. Richardson, I''ll be off then!"


    Just as we were about to leave, the lead man spoke up, "Hold up, it''s not often we all get to meet up


    like this. Let''s all sit down and have a chat, shall we? Mr. Richardson, it wouldn''t be right to y


    favorites, now would it?"


    Dad looked at the man named Kemp and said, "I''m afraid I must excuse myself today, Kemp. My


    daughter, son-inw, and I have pressing matters to attend to. We can catch up another time!"


    "Galen, you sure have been busytely! I hear you''re making a killing on that Oldtown Avenue project.


    Isn''t that enough for you? Your daughter''s settled far from home; why not take it easy and enjoy life a


    bit?"


    The incongruous smile on his face didn''t mask the unpleasantness of his words.


    I nced at my father. As the younger generation, it wasn''t my ce to chime in. Besides, I couldn''t


    quite grasp the situation.


    Dad, unfazed, returned Kemp''s look with a light smile. "Making money and enjoying life are not


    mutually exclusive. Sometimes, making money is merely a measure of one''s value and intellect, it''s not


    about the amount. The more the numbers grow, the more they reflect a person''s worth. Exactly


    because my daughter has settled down, I''m free of worries and can put in a little extra effort. It''s not


    often theye back to visit, so I''m showing them around while I have the chance!"


    "After all, I''m a major shareholder at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. It''s only natural I take an interest in my


    own business!" Dad said this with such understated potency. I couldn''t help but admire him.


    Whether this was an act or a real power y, it was an education in high-stakes negotiation!


    Even Jan was captivated. Honestly, what hecked was this kind of restraint and poise. Such


    lessons were rare for him.


    "Galen, it''s all well and good to demonstrate value, but don''t forget to leave some scraps for us


    brothers in arms. Taking food from our own table isn''t very brotherly, is it?" Kemp''s words were brazen.


    He was using my father of betrayal.


    Jan bristled, his face darkening with the urge to react.


    I reached out to calm him, giving him a subtle nod.


    Jan shook his head, reluctantly reining in his temper.


    Bet, however, was visibly annoyed. "Kemp, we can discuss these matters without such a


    spectacle. It''s unseemly. And let''s not forget that Mr. Wilburn was my guest today. If he''s been toiling


    away for VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, then it''s unbing to speak ill of him. When it''s time to collect


    earnings at the end of the year, I don''t see anyone generously offering a share to Mr. Wilburn."


    "Toiling away? Or perhaps there''s more to it than that." Kemp was intent on confrontation.


    My father stood his ground, calm and collected, merely watching them with a smile.


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    "Let''s not mince words. I''m well aware of your intentions. To be frank, the VitaGlow Capsules are the


    result of my privateb''s research and have nothing to do with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Besides, I


    haven''t decided on whether tounch, where tounch, or how tounch. You all seem quite worked up


    over it, don''t you think?"


    Bet spoke evenly, his words carrying an undeniable force.


    The group exchanged looks, falling silent before Kemp spoke again, "Mr. Richardson, since the


    VitaGlow Capsules have passed inspections and are ready for production, why not choose VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals?"


    "Because of the unseemly way you all are behaving!" Bet''s response was unvarnished.


    I almost burst outughing at his blunt retort!


    Kemp red at me, his tone growing harsh, "You should remember, we invested in VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals because we believed in your potential. Now that you seem to have other ns, how


    exactly do you see us shareholders?"


    "So, Kemp, you''vee to confront me with your troops, huh?" Bet countered.

 Chapter 366

    Chapter 366


    Bet''s words rolled out with a deliberate calm that nevertheless sent waves of oppression crashing


    through the room.


    "It''s not... I mean no offense! But since we shareholders are here today, we''re just looking for your


    honest opinion. That''s all!"


    "I have no opinion!" Bet''s response was t-out defiant.


    The room fell into an awkward silence.


    Looking around and seeing the expressions of everyone present, I decided to step in. "Since there


    seems to be business to discuss, my husband and I will excuse ourselves. Dad, we''ll wait for you


    outside."


    But as Jan and I made a move to leave, Bet''s voice sliced through the tension. "Show these


    people out," hemanded his secretary.


    It was an unequivocal dismissal.


    Standing up, he addressed my father. "Mr. Wilburn, please! I''ll apany you."


    Dad offered him a serene smile. "Well then, lead the way."


    Without another word, or even a nod to that Kemp fellow, we made our way out.


    "Mr. Richardson!" Kemp stepped forward, calling out.


    Bet gave him a frosty nce and instructed his secretary, "Schedule a full shareholders'' meeting


    for tomorrow morning at ten."


    Then he strode out of the office.


    I was baffled. What game were my father and Bet ying? It was beyond myprehension. One


    thing was clear, though; my dad was not one to be outmaneuvered.


    We all got into our cars, and once we were on the road, I asked my father, "Is Kemp the major


    shareholder of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?"


    "No," Dad said simply, his mind clearly elsewhere. It dawned on me that those men were indeed the


    real deal, not extras in some corporate theater.


    Seeing my father''s contemtive and slightly displeased expression, I chose not to press further.


    Looking out the car window, I marveled at the changes in Silverdale City. It had been a while since I''d


    been back, and the city had transformed significantly. Our route took us through the urban sprawl,


    heading directly to the Camellia Crest in the Eastgate District.


    The eastern side of Silverdale City was hilly, dotted with sprawling camellia ntations, hence the


    name Camellia Crest.


    The most picturesque part of Camellia Crest was to the east of Silent Blossom Pond. Once a provincial


    reservoir, the area had be a national tourist attraction. Its banks were lined with plum trees that,


    when in bloom, painted thendscape a fragrant pink. Hence, the name Silent Blossom Pond.


    The pond was divided into the West Lake, separated from the ocean by a mere mountain, and the East


    Lake. The construction of a new highway had leveled the mountain, blending the reservoir with the sea


    to create a distinctive coastline.


    East Lake, now Silent Blossom Pond, had be thergest freshwaterke in the region. Each side


    offered contrasting vistas, drawing visitors to two distinct areas.


    As we arrived, I was taken aback by how much the ce had flourished, almost like a paradise on


    earth.


    "Land here is worth a fortune now!" Dad remarked as we passed a string of resorts along the shore.


    "The entire area around Silent Blossom Pond has been developed. The speciality here is bing


    quite famous!"


    "The tourism in Silverdale City is booming," I mused.


    "That''s the future hope for us. Our Oldtown Avenue will be another must-see in Silverdale City,"


    Dad said with pride.


    "Galen, which has a brighter future: Oldtown Avenue or VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?" Jan asked, his


    practicalitying through in his first interjection.


    Dad beamed at the distant Silent Blossom Pond. "They''re different sectors: one focused on lifestyle,


    the other health. Both are essential and iparable."


    Jan seemed unsatisfied with the answer, falling silent as he pondered.


    The driver was already looking for a parking spot when Dad added, "But both are long-term ventures in


    their fields¡ªone open for continual expansion and the other a steady stream of profits."


    I felt a twinge in my heart. His answer was precise, meaningful only to me.


    Dad''s vision was to build me a near-perfect foundation for business, with pharmaceuticals and medical


    devicesplementing each other for sustainable growth, while Oldtown Avenue could be a charming


    alley that attracted visitors from everywhere, providing endless profits.


    These endeavors could remain evergreen, a legacy we could pass down through the generations, even


    as we grew old. This was Dad''s blueprint.


    Stepping out of the car, I was greeted by the fresh air scented with tea, a natural oxygen bar. Jan


    had already joined Dad, strolling alongside Bet towards the scenic vi.


    Hannah came up beside me, tugging at my sleeve and raising an eyebrow. I immediately understood


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    she had something to share.

 Chapter 367

    Chapter 367


    Hannah and I gradually distanced ourselves from the others, and only when we were out of earshot did


    she lean in to whisper, "Things have taken a turn for the worse with Hazel. She had a shock earlier and


    they''ve taken her to the ER!"


    I was taken aback. "Is it that serious?"


    "She''s been screaming all night, looks like she''s genuinely terrified," Hannah shared, obviously


    concerned. "She''s still in the ER, and I bet Jan''s phone is off. Jesper''s been trying to reach him,


    frantic with worry."


    "That exins why Jessica was trying to call Jan first thing in the morning!" I said to Hannah, "She


    must have been up all night too, worn to a frazzle. After all, at Hazel''s age, and with two nights of this,


    it''s no surprise she''s struggling."


    "Do you think this will affect things here?" Hannah asked, "Should we do something about it?"


    "No, let''s wait and see how things unfold. As for impact... I doubt it, though Jan might have to head


    back sooner. Worst case, we wrap up the ns early, especially if time''s getting squeezed." I pondered


    for a moment before pulling out my phone.


    I dialed a number and soon enough, someone answered. "Dr. Dailey! I''m terribly sorry to bother you


    again, but could I ask another favor of you?"


    "Go ahead."


    I briefly exined Hazel''s condition to Dr. Dailey and asked him if there was a way to prolong her stay


    in the hospital.


    "Alright, I''ll check it out," Dr. Dailey said before hanging up.


    Hannah looked at me and said, "With Hazel''s condition, Jan will definitely go back. But if we can buy


    a day or two, that should be enough."


    "Keep me posted on any developments from Goldenvale Town," I instructed Hannah, taking a few


    steps before adding, "And get in touch with Sean. Tell him to get ready to break the story. This could be


    an opportunity! Send him the video from the memorial night too."


    "Don''t worry, I''ve already sent it to him," Hannah assured me, as reliable as ever. She had already


    taken care of what I had in mind.


    "Then let''s head in," I said, and with that, Hannah and I walked into the country club where the others


    had gone. We were promptly escorted to their private room.


    Dad was in the middle of a tense conversation with Bet about the earlier disruption caused by


    Kemp, and it was clear Dad wasn''t pleased.


    Bet seemed unfazed as he remarked, "At tomorrow''s shareholders'' meeting, Kemp will find out the


    cost of leading this ruckus."


    His words confirmed my suspicion: these were actual shareholders of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, not


    just extras Dad had brought in for a show.


    After finishing the discussion, Dad openly proposed a partnership with Bet.


    Bet didn''t dodge the proposal butid out his terms, which I found quite demanding.


    Of course, partnering with the Richardson Group was no small matter. And, as Bet had made clear


    earlier in his office, he wasn''t one to y favorites.


    Throughout the conversation, Jan remained silent, but it was evident that Dad''s intentions hit a


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    nerve. The terms proposed by Ronan were intimidating, and if Jan didn''t take his time to think it


    over, he wouldn''t be the shrewd man he was known to be.


    Eventually, the focus shifted from business to pleasure, and everyone enjoyed a hearty lunch together.


    After spending some time at Silent Blossom Pond, we returned to our house on Oldtown Avenue,


    where Jan immediately joined Dad in the study.


    I swiftly took out my phone.


    On my journey home, I missed a call from Dr. Dailey as the timing wasn''t quite right for a conversation.


    As soon as I could, I dialed him back, and he informed me that Hazel''s condition was due to an


    infection from a burn. She was now in an istion room, sedated, and had calmed down.


    I asked him, "Is her life in danger?"


    "That depends on her physical condition and the infection. We''ll do our best to keep her alive," Dr.


    Dailey replied with thepassion of a healer. But I wasn''t as benevolent; I just needed her to hold on


    until she served her purpose.


    "Thank you! I always seem to be troubling you," I expressed my appreciation.


    After hanging up, Hannah leaned in and asked quietly, "How is it?"


    I smiled, "She''s in istion now. That''ll take some weight off Jessica''s shoulders."


    Hannah scoffed, "What use is a daughter like that?"


    What surprised me though was that while Jessica might have been useless, someone else proved to


    be quite the opposite.

 Chapter 368

    Chapter 368


    It wasn''t until the evening that I found out Zora had gone to look after Hazel.


    After dinner, Hannah, in one of her whimsical moods, dragged me out for a walk. Stepping out of the


    house, we headed towards the Wood Manor. On the way, Hannah blinked at me and asked, "Do you


    know who''s been taking care of Hazel at the hospital, now that the poor girl Jessica is finally allowed to


    go home?"


    I immediately shot back, "Who?"


    At the same time, my mind raced ¨C it couldn''t be Cami, could it?


    With Jerome away, it would be typical for Cami to step in. She was the epitome of diligence and


    dedication, after all.


    I blurted out, "It''s not Cami, is it?"


    But Hannah shook her head instantly. Somewhat puzzled, I looked at her as she chuckled, "Zora!"


    I burst intoughter, "Oh my word... She is truly a loyal hound, isn''t she? Born to be a nanny or a maid -


    it''s just perfect... I thought they would''ve sent Cami!"


    Hannah joined in theughter, teasing me, "Surprised? Shocked?"


    I nodded vigorously, "Totally surprised and absolutely shocked. Looks like Jan is eternally grateful to


    Zora. That''s true love. Always avable without a word of grumble!"


    We continued chatting andughing as we approached the Wood Manor. I introduced Hannah to the


    grandeur of the estate, not forgetting to poke fun at Zora along the way. But as we entered, I was taken


    aback. There was Ronan with Logan, Larkin, and a few other young guys I didn''t recognize.


    It seemed like they were in a meeting, and they all turned to look at us as we came in.


    Feeling a bit awkward, I quickly asked, "Are we interrupting? Please, don''t let us hold you up!"


    As I tried to drag Hannah back out, Logan''s voice stopped me, "Hold on... Allie!"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I stopped dead in my tracks and looked back at him.


    "Come on in... What''s the rush? We''re not monsters, you know!" he beckoned invitingly.


    He teased with a mischievous grin, "Better to be just on time than early. Here you are, delivered right to


    us, saving us the trouble of finding you!"


    I turned back around, "Alright! I''m not in a hurry. I just didn''t want to interrupt anything."


    Ronan gestured, and someone brought over a chair for me.


    I wondered when this ce had be Ronan''s hangout. After ying the role of Bet all day, he


    must''ve been tired; now he seemed moreid-back.


    "You guys eaten yet?" I casually asked. "Want me to rustle up something?"


    Logan gave me a thumbs-up. "That''s our Allie, always caring for the people! We''re all starving, right


    guys?"


    The others promptly chimed in, "Yeah, we¡¯re starving!"


    I pulled out my phone, but Hannah said, "I can go get it!"


    I stopped her. "I''ll do it. You don''t know the local hotspots."


    Hearing this, Logan''s eyes lit up. "Yeah, order some good food! That''s why you''re the best, Allie! We


    need to eat before continue to work!"


    "That''s right, mealtime is sacred!" I quickly ced an order through my phone for some local


    specialties.


    Noticing Ronan silently observing me from the corner of my eye, I chose to ignore it - for now. I


    hurriedly finished ordering on my phone and, pretending to be unruffled, I turned back to Logan,


    "Well?" I urged, "Do tell!"


    "Tell you what?" Logan joked, "You see me and think it''s all business? Can''t a guy catch a break?"


    "What did you call me for, then?" I said, a bit annoyed.


    "How else would I get to eat something good?" he retorted shamelessly.


    I had to hand it to him ¨C nobody could beat Logan at talking his way out of anything.


    "If there''s nothing else, then I''m out of here!" I said, standing up.


    Logan quickly begged off, "Allie, there is something! Really, there is!"


    Laughing at his antics, and with everyone else chuckling along, I said, "Alright, spill it."


    "We''ve cast our pebble out there," Logan said with a mischievous smile. "I bet there''ll be ripples in no


    time." New ch?pter av§Ñble o? Dr?§Þan§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "How the stats..." Logan immediately stood up and moved closer to the screen.


    "Steady now. Stick to the n and set the pace..." Logan instructed, eyes glued to the screen.

 Chapter 369

    Chapter 369


    As soon as I heard them talking with such fervor, I whipped out my phone and checked the trending


    topics, and there it was¡ªa post featuring a video clip from that night Jan and his family went out to


    pay their respects at the graveyard.


    The title of the post was a warning¡ª"Be careful when lighting candles¡ªfire safety first, don''t get


    burned!"


    Perhaps it was the sheer shock value of the video, the unexpected nature of the event, or the hint of


    paranormal activity that caught the attention ofizens. The post quickly gained traction and drew a


    flood of online traffic.


    Some users zoomed in on the video and took screenshots, trying to captivate the audience even more.


    Before long, some eagle-eyedizens started to notice something amiss.


    First, someone pointed out that the face in the photo propped up in the video belonged to Evan.


    Next, it was revealed that the very spot where the tribute was held was where the police had found


    Evan''s body!


    The onlinemunity exploded with curiosity and spection. The intensity of the inte sleuthing


    was unimaginable.


    Before long, the focus turned to Jan, and it was confirmed that the person who suffered burns was


    Jan''s mother, Hazel! At this, the public outcry began anew. Questions arose about Evan''s identity,


    and why the Dawson family hadn''te forward during the search to im the child as one of their


    own.


    Conjectures and theories abounded, each more inventive than thest.


    I knew the inte was powerful, but I had never anticipated this magnitude of response. In just a short


    while, the online world was hit by a tsunami of reactions.


    People began to question the Dawsons'' motives. Was the midnight tribute an act of guilt, or grief? Was


    it to console their own spirits, or to appease the dead? Was it an acknowledgment or an attempt to shift


    Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    me?


    The usations varied, but the sentiment was the same. And within an hour, people were already at


    the hospital where Hazel was being treated, looking for the truth to confirm the stories circting


    online.


    Soon after, photos of Hazel''s burns were leaked.


    The public didn''t know, but I was well aware that Logan and his friends were behind it.


    The situation seemed out of control, yet it was unfolding with precision.


    Quickly, I put my phone away.


    The guys had finished the meal I had arranged, and it looked like the next phase of their n was


    about to begin.


    If I hadn''t known that the instigators of this online earthquake were sitting right in front of me, I would


    never have believed that such a few people, chatting andughing, could be behind it all.


    AzureEnchantress was a case in point, even if I knew she wasn''t the actual mastermind behind it all.


    As for us, it was clear we were just a tool they used during their operations.


    Dr?§Þan§àvels


    Ronan stood up to see Hannah and me off. At the door, he looked at me and said, "Jan will probably


    have to leave Silverdale City soon!"


    I asked him worriedly, "Do you think he''ll take the bait? I''m not sure about his attitude today!"

 Chapter 370

    Chapter 370


    Ronan chuckled, shedding the chilly aura of his daytime persona, Bet. "No need to worry. He won''t


    give up that easily. He''s been itching to make a move. Think about it, a big juicy steak almost within


    reach and then snatched away? He won''t rest until he''s had a bite."


    "That''s for sure!" Iughed, all too familiar with the tenacity of the Dawsons.


    Ronan went on, analyzing the situation for me, "Especially with the current situation, as soon as he


    sets foot back in Goldenvale Town, he''ll be bombarded with troubles. With all these pressures bearing


    down, he''ll be thinking it''s do or die! And let''s not forget, he''s got a n B up his sleeve!"


    Of course, I knew Ronan was talking about Irving.


    "You''re right, he''s still got that ace, Irving!" I couldn''t help but snicker, "Poor Irving, he''s about to get hit


    with some bad luck too!"


    "Maybe he''ll try to strike a deal with me." Ronan seemed to have Jan''s next moves down to a


    science. He continued, "In his mind, having Irving equates to owning a factory. That''s a bargaining chip


    for him, and even without the mess with Hazel, he''d be desperate to get back to the city to scheme with


    Irving!"


    I said with confidence, "Then I''ll swoop in and take Irving off the board in one fell swoop. Nobody''s


    getting out of this free."


    I might have sounded a bit too brash, as Ronan looked at me with a hint of admiration.


    My heart skipped a beat, wondering if I had been a tad too bold.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "By the way, did Logan tell you? Irving''s likely the mastermind behind Jta''s car ident. It could''ve


    been him who orchestrated it." I quickly changed the subject to avoid my embarrassment.


    "He did! We''re digging into the witness statements from back then!" Ronan didn''t deny it.


    "Ronan, can I ask you something?" I nced at him, gathering my courage.


    He looked at me and shrugged. "Of course!" he imed, feigning indifference, but his eyes were filled


    with anticipation.


    "Why are you guys helping us?" I asked, "I mean, this is all our private mess!" The real question I was


    dancing around was, ''Is it because of me?'' ''Am I special, and that''s why you''re helping?''


    The anticipation in his eyes flickered and vanished - I hadn''t broached the subject he was anticipating.


    "How to say..." he pondered for a moment. "There are many things, all intertwined, leading to


    unexpected clues. We don''t let anything connected slip by. Our primary goal is safety!"


    He spoke thest word with gravity, making me feel a strange warmth in my heart.


    Even though I wasn''t his special case, I was still someone he wasmitted to protecting.


    "Oh... right, there''s also Gemma back at my ce. She''s already received Jan''s orders and might


    make a move on my mom. Jan wants to know my dad''s exact whereabouts every day. Gemma''s


    also suspecting that my dad isn''t just heading to VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals every day."


    Ronan stopped in his tracks and raised an eyebrow. "How did you find out?"


    "Hannah and I discovered itst night."


    I ryed to Ronan the secret conversation between Jan and Gemma that we had overheard.


    Ronan asked, "What''s your take on it?"


    "Rest assured," Ronan told me. "Your ce is under surveince; you can keep tabs on Gemma''s


    every move!"


    Ronan walked down the steps, standing before me. "Yes, after you leftst time, for safety''s sake, I


    took the opportunity during an electrical check to install them." New ch§Ñpter av?ble on


    I quickly followed him down, standing face-to-face. "Why didn''t you tell me sooner?"


    I nodded, yet added, "But she''s useful for now. I have a feeling Jan won''t fall for it that easily."


    Ronan, confident as ever, assured me, "Don''t worry, we''ve got an ace in the hole back at your father''s


    ce!"

 Chapter 371

    Chapter 371


    Ronan''s words calmed me down. I found myself smiling at the thought of my father being a crafty old


    fox.


    Turning to Ronan, I murmured, "You better head back. I''m going home."


    He climbed the steps and watched me walk away. I didn''t look back¡ªI simply couldn''t.


    However, when I eventually did nce back, Hannah was missing from the scene. She must have


    slipped away earlier to evade the unfolding drama! As I stepped out of the hall, there she was, lounging


    in the foyer''s courtyard, staring at a faux rockery.


    "Let''s go!" I called out.


    She scampered over, her head cocked curiously, "All done with Ronan?"


    "What''s there to be done?" I scoffed.


    Hannah snorted withughter, "You¡¯re such a great actress. Someone''s been worrying sick over you,


    and here you are, cool as a cucumber. I''m impressed!"


    "Cool? I won''t be cool until Jan is knocked down a peg or two! No time for anything else," I said with


    such conviction I almost inspired myself.


    Hannah looked at me, clearly not believing every word.


    "I mean it! This revenge will not go unrewarded. If I had time to think about anything else, I''d be


    seriously cking off. I''ve got too much pride for that," I stated.


    "I get it!" Hannah looked convinced. Her infectious grin spread across her face, and she nodded


    eagerly, "I believe you! Totally!"


    I gave her a sidelong nce. "If you believe me, cut the jokes. And besides, Ronan''s now Bet, a


    high-flying bachelor, with women falling over themselves for him. I''ve had my turn in the love merry-go-


    round, and I''m still tripping over my own feet. How could I hog such a prime catch?"


    Hannah nearly doubled over withughter at my words.


    I wanted to tease her about her embrace with Larkin the previous night, but I stopped myself.


    I realized it would be best not to provide her with additional fodder to yfully torment me about Ronan,


    as this could spin off into a web of misunderstandings and potentially paint me as an indecent person in


    her perception. Back home, Jan wasn¡¯t in the living room, while Mom and Helga were ying with


    little Carl.


    After a brief search, I found Gemma slicing fruit in the kitchen.


    Carl lit up at my entrance, toddling over with arms wide open. His little eyes squinted with joy,


    "Mommy!"


    I scooped him up, feeling the familiar strain. Carl had be a chunky little butterball.


    I kissed his cheek and asked, "Why aren''t you asleep yet, kiddo?"


    He responded with a slobbery kiss of his own.


    He was content, sweetly cooing, " I was waiting for Mommy!"


    His cuteness melted my heart, almost making me lose track of everything.


    With a napkin, I wiped away his drool. "Look at you. Are you learning to charm Mommy? You''re getting


    good at this!"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    As I cleaned him up, I joked, "Your drool''s like spaghetti! Your siblings never did this. Look at you!"


    Mom chimed in, "He''s the only one of the three who drools like that!"


    Carl giggled, trying to dodge my hand, "Not spaghetti. It''s baby water!"


    He was so adorable!


    I picked him up in a hug, and kissed him whileughing. He squealed with excitement too!


    Hannah nced at her and quipped, "Wow, then your son must be a genius!"


    Gemma wasn''t fazed as she sat down. "Come on, have some fruit. Carl is a smart little guy!"


    Her constant praising of Carl was enough to give anyone goosebumps. New ch?pter av?ble o?


    Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "Gemma, does your boy have kids of his own?" I asked casually while ying with Carl.


    "How many sons do you have, Gemma?" I inquired absentmindedly.


    "Just the one, and he''s trouble enough," she replied with ease.

 Chapter 372

    Chapter 372


    I nced at Gemma, who stood there spinning tall tales as if her mouth was a merry-go-round of fibs.


    Her words made about as much sense as a screen door on a submarine.


    Wasn''t her son dead? And now, out of the blue, she''s spinning yarns about how he didn¡¯t think about


    settling down.


    The reason I brought it up was because of what Jan mentionedst night when he caught up with


    Gemma. He¡¯d been mighty clear, "If you can¡¯t do even this, then prepare to pack your bags! But before


    you go, return what you took from me. Fair¡¯s fair, right? I''m under no obligation to buy your son a car or


    a house!"


    That''s when my suspicions kicked in. I distinctly remembered Gemma iming her son had died of


    leukemia.


    And now, here she was, suggesting he lived like a king on Jan''s dime. It was as if she thought he


    could just rise from the grave at the drop of a hat, all based on her say-so.


    As soon as I quizzed her, sure enough, she said her son was ayabout.


    This woman was sure full of nonsense.


    I let out a nonchnt "Oh?" and didn¡¯t call her out, deciding to let her train of lies chug along.


    I''d store these words up and throw them back in her face when the time was right.


    "We haven''t had a youngster that age around for years," Gemma cooed at Carl, who was busy swatting


    her hand like it was a fly. "Kids that age know how to charm you and win hearts. Give it a few more


    years, and they''re as wee as a skunk at awn party."Gemma said so as she teased Carl.


    "Got any little kids that age in the family, Gemma?" I asked with a hint of mischief.


    "Oh, there''s a little one in the family alright, already in grade school!" I caught her eye and knew right


    away she was talking about Marissa''s kid.


    "Looks like you¡¯ve got a soft spot for the little ones," I prodded further. "So why aren''t you nannying for


    your rtives?"


    "Well, they''re quite the precious cargo!" She said, sneaking a peek at me.


    I feigned ignorance, not keen on unraveling her tangle of tales any further.


    Her stories were as disjointed as a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces. I figured she started by trying to


    earn my sympathy, but now that she was morefortable, the lies were finally revealed.


    Noticing Carl rubbing his eyes and yawning, I mentioned to Helga, "We should tuck him in. Looks like


    bedtime''s calling."


    Helga scooped up Carl right away and we headed upstairs. After putting Carl to bed, Helga nced


    down the stairs and whispered, "Not a single word of truthes from that woman!"


    "Oh? How so?" I yed along.


    "Just yesterday, she was moaning about how kids are a handful, saying she''s not cut out for


    babysitting. Told me her son''s kids are always with the granny. And now, here she is telling you a whole


    other story about her son being ayabout who''s yet to find a wife. Which end is up with her?"


    I chuckled softly, "You don''t say!"


    Helga scoffed, "She''s all show, no substance."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Iughed with a shrug, reassuring her, "Don''t worry, her day of reckoning wille."


    Hannah, trailing behind us, piped up, "Where are Monique and Fidelia?"


    Helga replied promptly, "They''re next door. The neighbor''s ce is like a mini school during the day.


    Mr. Damon keeps an eye on the kids while they do their homework. I''ve seen it. It''s quite the setup."


    "Really?" I was genuinely intrigued.


    I could easily picture Monique''smanding presence, which was honestly part of the problem.


    "Probert''s always got Monique¡¯s back. He''s her right-hand man. The kids all follow their lead, but when


    Monique''s in a bind, it''s Probert she consults."


    Helga''s insights wereforting, the kind of details only an observant person could pick up on.


    As we chatted away, Jan came out of his room upstairs.  Dr?§Þan§àvels


    Seeing us with the child, he approached with a grin and started to y with Carl.


    His little hands might have been small, but they sure had strength. I wagered Jan was seeing his fair


    share of them right about now.

 Chapter 373

    Chapter 373


    Hannah nearly burst outughing, but managed to keep it in.


    I, on the other hand, couldn''t hold back and snorted withughter. It wasn''t that I was indulging the kids;


    Jay''s face was just too funny all at once.


    "You''re picking on him when he''s tired and cranky!" I said, pulling Jay close to me in exnation.


    Then I turned to Carl with a stern look. "You can''t hit Daddy again. That''s what naughty kids do. If you


    hit someone again, Mommy''s going to be very upset!"


    Seeing me scold him, Carl''s lower lip trembled and tears welled up in his eyes. He muttered in protest,


    "Bad Daddy... I don''t want Daddy."


    The more I scolded, the more he reached out for a hug.


    Jay probably felt better, or maybe he was trying to salvage his pride. He pped his hands and said,


    "Daddy hug. Mommy''s tired!"


    Carl, patting away Jan''s hand, insisted, "Mommy''s not tired. Mommy''s strong!"


    I couldn''t help butugh as I scooped him up. "Mommy''s strong, so are we going to hit people next


    time?"


    Through his teary eyes, he promised me, "No, I won¡¯t hit other people, only Daddy! Daddy''s naughty.


    He made me mad!"


    We all lost it then, cracking up at the little charmer''s antics.


    Seeing us allugh, Carl joined in with a pretend giggle, patting his chubby hands together and


    repeating that Daddy was the naughty one.


    Jan whipped out his phone and started snapping pictures of Carl''s chubby face. Carl reached for the


    phone, and Jan teased, "Give Daddy a hug, and you can have it!"


    After a moment''s thought, Carl finally stretched out his arms to Jan, who gave him a peck on the


    cheek and posed for some selfies with him.


    When he saw me watching, he tried to drag me into the photo op.


    I stepped back, not in the mood, and said, "You''ve just made him cry, and now you want pictures? Not


    happening!" In my mind, I was cursing, thinking about how Jan would be the one crying tomorrow. I


    swore I''d never take another photo with him again, to save myself the trouble of dealing with themter.


    After putting Carl to bed, I went to check if Fidelia and Monique hade back. Stepping into their


    room, I found them deep in conversation.


    Fidelia stood up immediately and greeted me sweetly, "Hey, Auntie!"


    I smiled warmly, "Are you settling in okay? Have you called your mom?"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    "I call her every day, and we video chat too!" Fidelia told me, her expression making it clear she was


    more thanfortable.


    Monique butted in, "Mom, with me here, you''ve got nothing to worry about! Don''t fuss over us. Go do


    your thing!"


    I said, "Tomorrow, you bring your sister and brother home early. You can''t stay outte at other people''s


    houses; it''s not polite."


    "Oh,e on! I wanted toe back early. It was Auntie Catherine who insisted we stay. Ask Fidelia if


    you don''t believe me," she said with conviction.


    "Of course, I trust you, Monique. You know I always trust you to handle things," I expressed with a


    sense of pride. I understood that with Monique, it was always about employing the right approach -


    leading with praise, followed by guidance.. Just like my Dad used to do.


    Sure enough, Monique beamed, "Mom, we''re going to bed now. We''ve got a mission tomorrow, you


    know?"


    "A mission?" I asked, curious.


    "Mom, you just said you trusted me, and now you''re asking again!" she retorted with a mock pout.


    Before leaving their room, I reminded Fidelia, "Remember to check in with your mom every day, so she


    doesn''t worry." Re§Ñd at Dra§Þan§àvels


    Fidelia nodded earnestly. "Got it, Auntie!"


    At the sight of my startled reaction, Catherine let out a dramatic yelp.

 Chapter 374

    Chapter 374


    "Wow, you finally remembered I exist!" Catherine''s voice carried a hint of annoyance.


    "Hey, I''ve been running around like crazy all day. It''s a miracle I can even dial your number. Be grateful,


    will ya?" I retorted with a smug sense of pride before asking, "So, what have you been up to all day?"


    "Sleeping, mostly. Just horsing around with the kids this evening," Catherine drawledzily. "I''m on


    vacation, remember?"


    I snorted, "Sleeping all day, doing facials, too. What''s the matter, getting old?"


    "What do you think? Sleeping is exhausting, you know?" she argued with conviction. "I''m not getting


    any younger. Got to take preventative measures so I don''t age faster than I didst year."


    Her words nearly had me hanging up the phone, ready to call her out, "You sound like you''re freaking


    out over a crisis. What''s going on?"


    "Nonsense!" She snapped back, though I couldn''t see her face.


    "Logan''s heading back to Goldenvale Town tomorrow. You nning on joining him?" I threw out a little


    bait, testing her reaction.


    Sure enough, she gasped, "What? Who said that?"


    "I''m not even done talking. What''s the rush?" I teased, eyeing her mask-covered face as if it were the


    gospel truth. "Didn¡¯t he ask you?"


    "No... He said he''d be staying for a few days!" Catherine sounded utterly suspicious.


    I almost burst outughing but held it in, continuing, "We had dinner together tonight."


    "What?" She eximed again, a mix of shock and irritation in her voice. "He told me he was busy.


    What''s he ying at?"


    Internally I was scoffing at her obvious concern, thinking, ''Well, well, the cat''s out of the bag now, isn''t


    it?''


    "What''s he ying at?" I echoed, feigning ignorance. "Since when do you schedule Logan''s ns?"


    "Drop it," she retorted gruffly. "I couldn''t care less about him. Who is he to me?"


    "Sure, whatever you say," I goaded her. "You im you don''t know the guy, yet you''re all up in his


    schedule? What does it matter to you who he eats with? And another thing, you never take a break, but


    the minute you hear he''s in Silverdale City, you''re back here vacationing like there''s no tomorrow. You


    sure you''re noting down with something? Might need to take you to the hospital tomorrow!"


    At that, Catherine lost her cool. "Aaliyah Wilburn, seems like you''ve forgotten your own troubles the


    moment you''re back on your feet, always picking on me! Are you even making sense? What exactly


    am I being hard about?"


    She ripped off her face mask, no longer pretending, and red at me through the screen with righteous


    indignation.


    "You''ve got no idea what it''s like to be alone, do you? You''re still shaking off yourst fling, and you''ve


    got a line of suitors at your door. Why don''t you talk about that?" she used me outright.


    Her words hit me hard, and I was taken aback. She was genuinely upset now, letting everything out.


    She wasn''t done yet, "I''m practically an antique at this point. It''s bad enough you don''t help, but then


    you have to make your snide remarks. Don''t you dare call me your bestie ever again. After all these


    years of putting up with you, do you think it''s been easy for me?"? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I quickly tried to smooth things over, "Not easy at all!"


    "Save it. If it weren''t for you, would I even know him? He can have dinner with whomever he pleases.


    Indeed, what''s it to me?"


    I couldn''t hold back myughter any longer, and she immediately turned sour, "What''s so funny? Go


    ahead,ugh!"


    "I... he..." She realized she''d let her guard slip and struggled to find an excuse. Co?tent of


    Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    After my relentless teasing, her defiant spirit seemed to fizzle out, and shey on her bed, tossing and


    turning, sighing in despair.


    Seeing her like this, I realized something wasn''t right. Had I hit a nerve?

 Chapter 375

    Chapter 375


    I sat up straight and looked at her with mock seriousness. "Alright, let''s get to it. Five bucks'' worth of


    truth!"


    She rolled her eyes in disdain. "Oh, please!"


    I feigned firmness. "That''s your call, babe. No chat, it''s bedtime. I''m hanging up!"


    She let out a dramatic groan. "Wait, wait! Aaliyah, Ms. Wilburn, don''t y me like that!" With that, she


    sat up, her face suddenly all business. "Let''s talk, sis, spill it!"


    I snorted, thinking. ''I''ve got your number.''


    "Spill, then!" I said, with the patience of a confidant, my tone soothing, my demeanor gentle. Suddenly,


    I felt like I''d stumbled onto a new career¡ªhosting one of thosete-night radio talk shows for the


    lovelorn.


    With a heavy sigh, she began, "Allie, I just don''t get it. I''m stuck, like there''s this giant chasm I can''t


    cross!"


    "What''s the deal? Spill it, and cut to the chase. It''s way past my bedtime," I urged her.


    "It''s Logan. He''s ying hot and cold with me!" Catherine blurted out, her voice thick with anguish.


    I was skeptical. "What do you mean, ''ying''? That doesn''t sound like Logan at all."


    "He''s just... I don''t know. If you were to say he''s not into me, you''d be dead wrong. He''s there for me,


    offering his jacket when I''m cold, asking if I''m okay, warning me against unsafe ces, telling me who


    to avoid. If I''m workingte, he offers a ride home ''cause it''s ''on his way''. Some guy hassles me, and


    Logan''s ready to throw punches..."


    I looked at Catherine, startled, and thought, ''Isn''t it obvious to show his love? Isn''t she being a bit too


    dramatic? Does he have to spell it out for her?'' But I kept quiet, letting her continue.


    "All these things... Tell me, isn''t this what someone with feelings would do?" Catherine pressed, her


    eyes wide and earnest.


    I nodded, and only then did she continue. "But then, if you think he''s got a thing for me, why does he


    keep telling me to ''grow up'' and ''find a good man to settle down with''?"


    I paused, perplexed by his words.


    Catherine''s expression was one of utter frustration. "What''s he ying at? Shouldn''t I be the one to


    decide if I need a man? He sends all these signals, then pushes me away with no hesitation."


    I was at a loss for words too.


    "If he''s not interested, why the heck does he lead me on? Sometimes, when he''s not busy, he''ll call in


    the middle of the night, and we''d talk until the phone is dead. I mention offhand that I''ve put on a few


    pounds and need to start a morning jog, and he turns into my personal rm clock. My heel breaks


    unexpectedly, and he''s there in a heartbeat with a brand-new pair... Is he okay?"


    Catherine threw her hands up in exasperation, her reflection in the screen looking back at me,


    indignant.


    "Even my colleagues see it. They say he''s into me. But whenever ites to crunch time, he ys this


    game, telling me to date some ''good man''!" Catherine was on the verge of tears.


    Ipared Logan to Ronan from back in the day. Although Ronan was never as tant, he too kept


    that infuriating distance¡ªclose, yet cool. Never too far, but never too close. When things started


    heating up, he''d pull away just as naturally. Yep, birds of a feather.


    "Talk about being led on!" I chimed in, sympathetically.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    I had a hunch that Logan might share Ronan''s old mindset, possibly due to his line of work.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle, teasing her, "Look at you, always counting the cost."


    "Well, of course! If I screw up my job and waste my vacation over some guy who''s not worth it, then I''m


    the loser," sheined. Read at


    Then, she flopped back onto the bed in defeat. "Maybe... maybe I should just let it go."


    Seeing her struggle, I knew she was really falling for him.


    Shey there, looking utterly defeated. "I don''t even know if I really like him!"

 Chapter 376

    Chapter 376


    Seeing Catherine looking a bit down in the dumps, I jumped in to give her a pep talk, "Don''t sweat it,


    Cath. Like they say, ''Haste makes waste.'' First things first, you gotta make sure your feelings for this


    guy are the real deal."


    Catheriney there without moving, her eyshes fluttering slightly.


    "You need to take a good hard look at whether you two have anything inmon, whether he''s really


    the one you want, the one who''ll stick with you through thick and thin. If you''re sure about him, then


    you''ve got a fighting chance!"


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    All of a sudden, she sat up, her eyes earnestly fixed on me through the screen. "Allie, I''ve thought it


    over, and honestly, despite his wise-cracking, the guy''s solid. Think about it, how many can reach the


    top of their game like he has? Plus, he''s so under the radar. No one even knows he''s the one and only


    DragonLord..."


    "Hold your horses, Cath," I cut her off, challenging her, "Are you looking for love or idolizing a celebrity?


    You gotta get clear on that ¨C they''re not the same thing!"


    "I''m not getting it twisted," she insisted stubbornly. "The first time I met him, he was just like an


    electrician, showed up in his work clothes, nothing to write home about. I was so focused on helping


    you out, so I barely gave him a second nce! But..."


    "That''s just it," I cut in, "but as soon as you found out he was the legendary DragonLord, your heart


    skipped a beat, and you started seeing him in a new light! You got curious, wanting to dig into why he''s


    the cream of the crop, why he could be DragonLord."


    I articted Catherine''s thoughts, and she remained still, her gaze locked on me.


    "That''s what got you hooked, right? But I''m telling you, once his celeb aura fades, you''ll start seeing his


    ws. He won''t be the mysterious figure you imagined. No more aura. You might even feel you''ve gone


    overboard and he''s just a regr Joe, maybe with a whole bunch of ws you can''t stand. By then, it


    might be toote for regrets."


    I rattled on, not minding Catherine''s feelings. When ites to matters of the heart, it''s easy for those


    involved to get lost in the sauce. I felt it was my duty to give her a wake-up call, to keep her from


    spiraling.


    Catherine gave me a look of exasperation. "If you put it that way, maybe I should steer clear of that


    entire emotional minefield altogether!"


    "It all depends on your heart!" I said. "If, no matter how hard you try, you can''t shake his shadow, if you


    want to be near him even if it means climbing the highest mountain or swimming the deepest sea, then


    don''t hesitate."


    "I can''t say I haven''t felt that way," she muttered.


    Truth be told, since that day at the hospital when Logan asked Catherine to get him some food, I''d


    sensed something was up with these two. But my gut told me it wasn''t that Logan was disinterested; he


    was just more clear-headed.


    "So, for now, your best bet is to cool off and put yourself in his shoes. Learn to stay collected, shift your


    focus, pour your energy into work. Just enjoy your vacation and spend time with your family. Don''t get


    hysterical over him, letting him dictate your thoughts, emotions, and decisions. That''s the way to go!" I


    "And then what?" she pressed.


    "Then you wait," I replied.


    "Wait? How much longer am I supposed to wait?" she asked, struggling to ept this.


    "Stop ribbing me!" Catherine sighed, on the verge of tears.


    "You won''t have to wait much longer," I assured her confidently. "But this part is tough; it tests your


    patience." Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels

 Chapter 377

    Chapter 377


    Catherine looked at me with a hint of worry in her eyes.


    "Distance makes the heart grow fonder, you know? If you y it cool, Logan will onlye on stronger.


    If he truly loves you, he won''t give up just because you''re aloof. In fact, he''ll start to wonder what he did


    wrong to make you pull away," I exined, trying to guide her thought process.


    She listened intently.


    "So, it''s like flipping the script, right? It used to be you chasing after him, and now he''ll be the one


    chasing you. Do you want to be the chaser or the chasee? Since you''re too proud to make the first


    move, why not make him work for it?" I said, nudging her in the right direction.


    "Oh my stars! Allie, you''re absolutely right! I''ll take your advice. If my cold shoulder scares him off, then


    he wasn''t meant for me! Don''t they say what''s meant to be will be, and what''s not, no amount of


    pleading will bring it?" She had an epiphany.


    I wasn''t trying to encourage a breakup; I just wanted to rify the situation.


    "Bingo! That''s the spirit!" I cheered her on.


    "And that''s why two heads are better than one, right? With our smartsbined, there''s no way we


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    can''t outy him," Catherine was all fired up.


    "Hold your horses, it''s not about outying anyone," I interjected, wanting to keep her grounded. "It''s


    about strategy, got it?"


    I looked at her, breaking it down, "There''s a fine line in everything. Cross it, and you''ll spark the


    opposite reaction. Like now, if you keep hovering over him, nning his schedule, watching his every


    move, he''s gonna feel trapped. Especially someone like him who''s used to marching to the beat of his


    own drum¡ªhe''ll push back. You''ve got to give him some space."


    Catherine nodded along. "You''re so right!"


    "If he suddenly realizes you''ve stepped back, what do you think he''ll do if he''s got feelings for you?" I


    asked her to consider Logan¡¯s perspective.


    "Good heavens! Why didn''t I see that?" Catherine turned to me, earnestly saying, "Why can''t you sort


    out your own stuff like this? You''re so clear-headed! How did you get screwed over by Jan?"


    At Catherine''s words, it was my turn toment, "Ah... can''t you show a little empathy? Here I am, giving


    you top-notch advice, and you''re poking at my sore spot. Where''s your conscience?"


    "You can''t use a knife to cut itself, haven''t you heard that one?" I scoffed, "The reason I''m so clear-


    headed now is all thanks to Jan''s ''training.'' I''m using my own experiences to guide you, to ensure


    your marriage doesn''t have to go through trial and error like I did."


    "You''re a true friend! We''re like sisters!" Catherine praised enthusiastically.


    "Easy there! Weren''t you the one who just said, ''Don''t call me your bestie''? One minute you say one


    thing, the next you forget? My memory isn''t that short," I retorted, never missing a chance to throw her


    words back at her.


    Catherine blushed and chuckled, then gazed at me thoughtfully. "Allie, sometimes I''m just in awe of


    you. You''re so cunning! Even though Jan got one over on you, I''m sure you''ll have thestugh."


    "That''s the spirit! He doesn''t deserve to get off easy!" Catherine said fiercely.


    I spoke from the heart. Catherine and I were more than friends; we were like family. We practically lived


    together, and it seemed likely that we''d end up managing Oldtown Avenue together. New ch§Ñpter


    av?ble on


    "Fingers crossed," she sighed.


    Catherine took a deep breath, saying, "You''re right. I''ll use my charm to win him over. I wille out on


    top!"

 Chapter 378

    Chapter 378


    I snorted withughter so hard that tears actually sprang to my eyes.


    Catherine was surely blinded by love!


    After hanging up the phone, I scrolled through the trending topics again. The online world was aze


    with thetest celebrity feud¡ªit was like watching a wildfire. But Jan always seemed soposed.


    No way he didn''t know that the inte was losing its collective mind over this.


    I set my phone down, smirking to myself. Let''s see who cracks first.


    The next day.


    I was about to head downstairs for breakfast when I saw Jane out from his room, a smile


    stered on his face that didn''t quite reach his eyes.


    I couldn''t resist a little jab. "Enjoyed a good sleep?"


    He nodded, "Like a log. No usual difort that apanies sleeping in a strange bed. Actually, I


    slept better than I do at home, actually!"


    "That''s great. I''m starved¡ªlet''s eat!" I led the way downstairs, with him trailing leisurely behind.


    Inside, I was cursing. He said he slept well? With those dark circles? I doubted he''d slept a wink.


    But breakfast was interrupted by his phone ringing. He didn''t step away; he just answered right there at


    the table.


    The voice on the other end sounded pretty frantic. After a brief exchange, he said, "Okay, I''ll book a


    flight right away!"


    He hung up and turned to us, "I''m terribly sorry, but I have to rush back to Goldenvale Town. There''s


    been a family emergency, and I need to take care of it."


    Dad looked concerned. "What happened? Is it serious?"


    Jan was a bit evasive, "It''s my mom¡ªshe''s had an ident. Not sure about the details, but my


    brother says it might be serious. So..."


    Dad nodded, "Familyes first. Go."


    Jan had that helpless look and said to my parents. "Galen, Valerie, I was hoping to spend more time


    with you guys. I don''t visit often enough, but..."


    Mom chimed in with a kind smile, "ns never keep up with changes. Don''t worry about it. Eat up and


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    get going. If all is well, you can alwayse back in a few days."


    "Thanks, Valerie," Jan said, his sweetness clearly a cover for his stress.


    Then he turned to me. "Allie, stay a few more days to keep your parentspany. I''ll sort things out at


    home ande back to pick you up."


    I nodded, ying along, "Sure. Do you need me toe with you?"


    He quickly refused, but in a way that sounded sincere, "No, no, you just got here. Stay a bit longer. I


    wanted to spend time with you, but this came up. Sorry to leave you here alone. Just don''t be mad at


    me!"


    "As if! Family matters are important," I said understandingly, and then I prodded, "What exactly


    happened? Was it Jesper who called?"


    "My mom identally burned herself. Jesper didn''t give me the details, but it must be serious or he


    wouldn''t have called," Jan replied, looking genuinely worried.


    "Right, you better eat up then. I''ll go pack your things," I offered, feigning concern.


    I sat back down. "Sure you don''t need my help?"


    But I knew the moment that call came through, he was already packed. It was all an act, a convenient


    excuse to leave.


    He came to Silverdale City to meet Bet, and after their talk yesterday, he must have made his


    ns. He was just too embarrassed to say he wanted to go back. New chapter av§Ñble o?


    Dram?n§àvels.c§à§Þ


    And with the situation in Goldenvale Town heating up. Medsafe Liyah Inc. was surely affected. He


    must''ve been racing to get back.


    Next time I visit Goldenvale Town, things would never be the same. At that moment, I wasn''t sure if I


    felt excited or sad.

 Chapter 379

    Chapter 379


    So there we were, each lost in our own thoughts over what would likely be our final breakfast together. I


    didn''t believe there would be a next time like this.


    After breakfast, he politely bid my parents farewell, then headed upstairs to pack.


    Dad turned to me, his voice gentle, ¡°Honey, I want you to apany me to the VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals shareholders'' meeting today!¡±


    ¡°But I''m not a shareholder,¡± I replied, finishing thest bite of my pastry and cleaning my hands with a


    napkin.


    Dad chuckled, ¡°I need yourpany.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± I nodded in agreement.


    As I stepped out of the dining room, Jan had already packed his luggage and wasing down the


    stairs.


    He approached me, offered a few consoling words, and reminded me, ¡°Don''t forget, Carl¡¯s due for his


    shots on the 22nd.¡±


    ¡°There''s still half a month left. I know, don''t worry!¡± I said nonchntly. It crossed my mind how


    remarkably devoted he was to his role as an affectionate husband, managing to remember even Carl¡¯s


    vination appointment.


    He lingered, as if reluctant to leave. ¡°Well then, I¡¯m off, darling.¡±


    ¡°Safe travels!¡± I maintained a cheerful look, watching him without revealing my emotions.


    He opened his arms for a hug.


    I obliged, hugging him half-heartedly and patting his back meaningfully. ¡°Take care.¡±


    Then I let him go, gesturing towards the door. ¡°Let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll see you out.¡±


    Indeed, I had brought him into the Wilburn family home, and it was only fitting I escort him out onest


    time.


    Standing before the grand Wilburn house doorway, I spoke with hidden depth, ¡°Alright. Safe travels!¡±


    He paused at the doorway, looked back at me, and said tenderly, ¡°Alright, this is goodbye then. I¡¯ll call


    you once Ind.¡±


    I blinked, smiled at him, and nodded. Without another word, I watched him hand his luggage to the


    driver and wave goodbye before getting into the car.


    ¡°Goodbye,¡± I whispered softly, fully aware of the weight those words carried.


    With that wave, I had finally bid farewell to a mistake.


    As the car drove off, I turned back to the house, feeling an immense sense of relief wash over me. It


    was as if I had purged all the filth from the house. But my sense of satisfaction was short-lived.


    Entering the living room, I found Gemma tidying up, and a wave of annoyance hit me.


    I thought to myself, there¡¯s still a mess here that needs cleaning up.


    And as if on cue, she added to my irritation by asking, ¡°Did Jan head back to Goldenvale Town?¡±


    I merely hummed in response and headed upstairs to change. I had to get ready for the meeting at


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals with Dad.


    Passing by Jan''s former room, I opened the door to find it empty. I smirked, entered, and opened all


    the windows.


    When I came back down, dressed for the day, I was surprised to see Catherine standing there.


    ¡°You¡¯re here early. Aren¡¯t you supposed to be on vacation?¡± I eximed.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°What work?¡± I asked, ¡°Having another fit?¡±


    I went to grab my bag, then remembered. ¡°Oh, by the way, if you hurry, you might catch the same flight


    as Jan to Goldenvale Town.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s going back to Goldenvale Town?¡± Catherine asked, surprised, ¡°Why did you let the tiger return to


    the mountain?¡±  Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    I scoffed dismissively, not bothering to answer, and shot a nce at Gemma.


    Understanding the situation, Catherine teased, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to see me off?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got to join my dad at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. I¡¯ve got no time!¡± I replied firmly.


    With a nod, Catherine epted, ¡°Alright then, I¡¯m off. See youter!¡± She waved as she left.


    I called after her retreating figure, ¡°Keep me in the loop about your personal thing!¡±

 Chapter 380

    Chapter 380


    Catherine didn''t bother to look back or pause; she just waved over her shoulder at me. She had to


    know what I was talking about, right?


    The conference room of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals was up ahead.


    As Dad and Ronan¡ªno, I mean Bet¡ªand I approached the door, a cacophony of voices spilled


    out. The shareholders were obviously all there.


    Bet held up a hand to stop us, and we came to an abrupt halt.


    A loud voice from inside was saying, ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, please, I''ve heard what you''re all getting


    at. You want Bet to make a call onunching the product sooner rather thanter, right? But as I


    see it, we¡¯ve got to hit it where it hurts. You''re all missing the big picture here."


    Bet shot a nce at Dad, the corners of his mouth ticking up in a smirk. Dad returned the look with


    a knowing smile.


    I couldn''t help but scoff internally at their synchrony. It was like theymunicated with just a look.


    Was it my cunning father who influenced this enigmatic Bet, or it the other way around?


    Whatever the case maybe, a persistent feeling told me that their rtionship wasn''t as simple as it


    looked. And now, I was starting to feel like I understood my dad less and less.


    Who really was Bet, and could he be the same Ronan I hadn''t seen in twelve years? Suddenly, I


    was desperate to dig into Bet''s past. But that was easier said than done.


    I refocused, straining to catch more of the discussion inside.


    After a further exchange, the room quieted down, and the voice continued, "What? Why are you all


    looking at me? Don''t tell me you can''t see the elephant in the room!"


    Silence reigned inside.


    Bet stood confidently at the door, arms crossed, a look of amusement on his face.


    Finally, that voice haughtily snorted, ¡°You guys... really? You haven''t figured it out? It''s all about Galen


    Wilburn. For the past couple of years, this guy''s been acting like he''s the heart and soul of VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals, diligent and devoted. But in truth, he''s got ambitions bigger than his britches, itching


    for his moment. If you ask me, trying to strong-arm Bet won''t be easy. We''d be better kick Galen


    out."


    Taken aback, I felt an overpowering urge to burst into the room to see who had the audacity to speak


    their mind so boldly. However, a quick, meaningful nce from Bet silenced my reckless impulse,


    silently instructing me to maintain myposure. Taking a deep breath, I looked at Dad, who calmly


    shook his head at me. I clenched my purse, trying to contain my agitation.


    The debate inside continued, and atst rebuttals were voiced, "Mr. Kemp, that''s a bit out of line! We all


    remember that it was Galen who brought us aboard. Kicking him out now would seem ungrateful."


    More voices joined in, criticizing my dad. No wonder Dad and Bet had their guard up against these


    shareholders; they truly couldn''t be trusted! Content of Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    Their words were a jumbled mess to my ears.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Suddenly, another voice cut through the noise...

 Chapter 381

    Chapter 381


    "Come on, guys, it''s not fair to say that," boomed a voice with a clear allegiance to my dad, a loyalist


    through and through. "Let''s not forget Galen''s role in saving VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. This ce was


    a hair''s breadth from bankruptcy. Without his efforts to bring in a hefty investment and convincing


    Bet to buy in with his tech, where would our shiny nickels have gotten us, huh?"


    My dad just chuckled at these words, the picture ofposure.


    The voice continued, "We all started as scrappy underdogs, remember? If it wasn''t for Galen, the


    windfall we made back in the day would''ve been squandered in a heartbeat. Don''t tell me it''s not true.


    Think about it, which one of us had the know-how to run a big operation? I say, contentment is key.


    Now we justy back and rake in the dividends, which have multiplied who knows how many times


    over since our initial stake. And that without lifting a finger. Be grateful!"


    That voice was unmistakably Emmett''s.


    "Ha... Emmett, you and your contentment," someone jeered. "Let''s see you stick to that at year''s end.


    Take a stand, man! Show some backbone!"


    The room erupted withughter.


    Annoyed, Emmett snapped back, "Is that any way to talk?"


    "Why not? Isn''t investment all about making money? So, we take our share, and we''re supposed to


    kiss the ground he walks on? Why don''t you just take him home and care for him, since his daughter''s


    moved far away? You''d have the perfect chance to y the devoted son he never had!" The voice


    cackled wickedly.


    I was fuming, but a nce at my dad showed me he was neither angry nor upset, just listening with


    keen interest. Bet gave me a ''shush'' gesture and pointed to his ear, whispering, "Listen a bit


    more."


    A loud ''snap'' came from inside - Someone had lost their cool.


    "Cut the crap!" Emmett bellowed. "ud, you''re nothing but a disgrace, a real pot-stirrer! Aside from


    the initial few bucks you threw in, what have you done for VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals? You bellyache


    over every penny!"


    "I might not have done much, but without my cash back then, even Galen couldn''t have pulled it off!


    Oh, you think you''re above it now? Ha... toote! I invested a lot, and I expect my full share!" ud


    retorted. Clearly, he was a shameless character.


    "Enough! No more infighting. Remember why we''re here today!" Kemp interjected, trying to act the part


    of the peacekeeper.


    Another voice chimed in, "Right, we''re here to push Bet into production, pronto!"


    "Did you even grasp what I said?" Kemp''s tone was sharp, pressing the previous speaker.


    "You think Galen''s going to step aside? Not likely. Getting Bet into production is the real y," the


    defiant voice rationalized.


    "You''re so damn obtuse!" Kemp spat out. "Let me make it clear¡ªif Galen doesn''t get the boot, we''ll


    never see the top."


    "What about the major shareholder? Galen''s just managing at his behest. Besides, that shareholder


    appointed Bet to assist Galen, so..."


    Laughter filled the conference room.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "If passion''s what it takes, well, I''ve got that in spades! I can take over his duties, no sweat. He''s too old


    for this grind, pouring his heart and soul into it. It''s only fair, both emotionally and logically, for him to


    retire!" New ch?pter av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "But Kemp, you really think you can persuade Galen to hand over the reins gracefully?"

 Chapter 382

    Chapter 382


    Suddenly, the door swung open, sending an electric shock of surprise throughout the conference room.


    For a brief moment, the room fell silent.


    Every pair of eyes in the room swiveled towards us, wide with disbelief.


    Bet strode confidently inside, his face a storm cloud, and took his ce at the head of the table. I


    followed closely behind, taking my seat beside my father on the right.


    Bet''s icy gaze swept the room, and I noticed a few attendees shrink back, trying desperately to


    be invisible, daring not to meet his eyes.


    Finally, Bet''s stare settled on Kemp for a few moments before he spoke with a hint of scorn in his


    voice, "Well, has Kemp''s little pow-wow concluded?"


    Kemp''s face turned beet red, his adam''s apple bobbing as he struggled to find his voice, but no sound


    came out.


    Seeing Kemp''s pathetic state, Bet withdrew his gaze dismissively and cut straight to the chase.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Since everyone''s here, let''s get started. I''m not one to beat around the bush, and I certainly don''t have


    time to waste listening to gripes. If you''ve got a problem, speak up. No more skulking around behind


    my back. I don''t appreciate people barging into my office, so I''m giving you one shot, one hour. After


    that, you''re out of luck. As you know, VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals isn''t my usual stomping ground, and I


    won''t be lingering here. Kemp was right about one thing, though..."


    He paused, his chilling gaze sweeping over the crowd. "No one''s going to oust me. Not a chance."


    The room was a sea of exchanged nces, but silence prevailed.


    Bet''s presence was formidable, his eyes alone enough tomand reticence.


    He fixed Kemp with another look. "Since Kemp seems to have the most to say, let''s hear it from him


    first."


    With his name called out, Kemp''s expression soured even further. He scanned the room, seeing


    nothing but cautious deference, and his frustration boiled over.


    With a contemptuous snort and a growl of impatience, he barked, "What''s with the silence? Trying to


    ride this out? Didn''t we all agree to share our thoughts?"


    No one dared respond, only adding to his irritation.


    His gaze then turned to me. "And another thing, isn''t this supposed to be a shareholders'' meeting?


    What''s someone unrted doing sitting in?"


    "I invited Ms. Wilburn," Bet interjected before I could speak, nipping Kemp''s protest in the bud.


    Kemp, not bold enough to argue out loud, still muttered under his breath, "It''s against protocol! If we


    start making exceptions, who''s to say who can and cannot attend these meetings?"


    Bet responded coolly, with a weight that brooked no argument. "If I''ve invited her, she has every


    reason to be here. Or do you have an objection to that, Kemp?"


    ud, Kemp''s ever-loyal crony, seeing Kemp at odds with me but challenged by Bet, foolishly


    chimed in, "Mr. Richardson, surely family matters aren''t for outsiders to witness, right?"


    "Who says she''s an outsider in this?" Bet''s retort was unquestionable, his authority clear.


    ud faltered, his rebuttal dying on his lips.


    In those words, Bet subtly reminded Kemp that his behind-the-scenes maneuvers hadn''t gone


    unnoticed. Co?tent §àf


    Kemp tried to exin, but a gesture from Bet silenced him.

 Chapter 383

    Chapter 383


    Forced into a corner, Kemp finally mustered the nerve to speak up. "Look, I''ve got a beef with Galen.


    The guy''s been pulling strings for his own gain, sitting on his hands, and keeping the shareholders in


    the dark while he lines his pockets. How else could he afford to snap up a whole block of Oldtown


    Avenue in Silverdale City?"


    He was all-in, throwing down a convincing questioning.


    Everyone around the table was holding their breath, stealing nces at my dad.


    Kemp''s words continued to hit home. "Now he''s stonewalling theunch of VitaGlow Capsules, leading


    Mr. Richardson astray. As a manager at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, he''s just feathering his own nest..."


    Kemp''s tirade grew impassioned as he listed my dad''s alleged misdeeds, each point a spear aimed at


    the reality of the Oldtown Avenue deal.


    Emmett couldn''t take it anymore and cut him off. "Kemp, you''re making mountains out of molehills.


    What''s Oldtown Avenue got to do with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?"


    "What''s it got to do? Who bought Oldtown Avenue if not Galen?" Kemp shot back.


    "You''re just green with envy and can''t stand to see someone else doing well!" Emmett retorted without


    a care for appearances.


    Kemp mmed his hand on the table, pointing right at my dad, "Ask him if it''s rted. Where did the


    money for Oldtown Avenuee from?"


    All eyes turned to my dad again. The looks were varied¡ªsome eager for a spectacle, others red-eyed


    with jealousy, hoping to use this opportunity to cut my dad down. Some were genuinely curious about


    where the money came from, and of course, there were those who were genuinely worried for my dad.


    ud spoke up with a mocking tone, "Mr. Wilburn, as a fellow shareholder, your financial extravagance


    is quite something! Come on, tell us, is there a connection?"


    The room held its breath, waiting for my dad''s response. Kemp was smug, as though he had already


    thrown my dad to the wolves and was simply waiting to reap his victory feast.


    My dad shifted in his seat, lowered his eyes in contemtion, and the room fell into an oppressive


    silence.


    Then, with a resolve that seemed toe from within, he simply said, "Yes."


    At that single admission, the conference room erupted in murmurs, and those who had been rallying


    behind Kemp seemed toe alive, ready for the attack.


    Kemp, relishing his apparent victory, leaned back with a triumphantugh, "Ha! Mr. Wilburn, I admire


    your guts! Now, that''s being ountable. I actually respect you for that!"


    Then he turned to Bet, with an air of inevitability, "Mr. Richardson, perhaps you''re not aware. It''s


    him, Galen, who''s been diverting significant funds from the majority shareholder for his personal use.


    That''s how he got his hands on Oldtown Avenue! Isn''t this self-dealing?"


    Now, every shareholder seemed united in their animosity.


    Kemp, nodding his head with ostentatious pride, dered, "The annual funds from the major


    shareholder have always been managed by him alone. As for where it goes... Perhaps Mr. Richardson


    could bring this mysterious benefactor forward to meet with us. Otherwise, where did all this money


    go? We need a proper ounting."


    Bet smiled slightly, oozing confidence, "Indeed, a thorough exnation is due!"


    I had never seen my dad under such a barrage of questioning before. I felt both angry and sad for him.


    With a calm gesture, my dad signaled his secretary, who promptly distributed a set of documents to


    everyone in the room. New ch?pter av?ble o?


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    The only sound was the flipping of pages.


    But the more I read, the faster my heart raced. This document...

 Chapter 384

    Chapter 384


    This document was my dad''s financial statement, as clear as a summer day. Every dor and cent of


    ie and expense was ounted for, not a single discrepancy!


    Tucked in the back were the detailed records of that year''s investments: who put in how much, the


    increments, and the annual dividends collected!


    Thest sheet, though, had me riding an emotional rollercoaster.


    That was the source of my dad''s additional investment, and just looking at it had me fighting back


    tears.


    I tried topose myself, to not lose my cool.


    Listed on that sheet were assets like the house my mom got as a wedding gift from my grandparents,


    the family home inherited from myte grandma, three real estate investments from my grandpa, a


    dowry property in Silverdale City prepared for me, the return on investment I gave back to my dad in


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    the third year after I started Medsafe Liyah Inc., and the proceeds from his own educational business


    endeavors...


    All told, these assets were worth over 30 million bucks.


    And all that dough was funneled into VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, making us the major shareholder.


    My hands trembled as I read through the asset details.


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals'' initial investment was just 50 million dors, and our family had put in four-


    fifths of it, not even counting my dad''s early contributions.


    It was clear how much my dad wanted VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals to seed.


    Upon seeing the spreadsheet, everyone was gobsmacked, their eyes glued to my dad as my palms


    dripped with sweat.


    Even though my dad had hinted before that VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals was our safety, I never


    imagined it was to this extent.


    This was just...


    Suddenly, Kemp let out a roar, mming the documents on the table, pointing at my dad with a


    dramatic mix of frustration and disbelief, "Fake... This is all fake, Galen! You''re trying to monopolize


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals with these fabricated records, they''re fake..."


    His hysterical shouting broke the silence like thunder, he was like a jester who couldn''t take the heat of


    the game.


    My dad raised his hand, and in came three legal officers with briefcases, standing confidently behind


    him. My dad then spoke calmly, "If anyone has doubts, I''ve brought our legal team. You can verify all


    the paperwork from back in the day!"


    That shut them up.


    My dad sat there, the picture of serenity, and continued, "I''m sure no one here has forgotten the day we


    took over this ''fixer-upper'' of a factory. We were all eager to do big things,ing to me with cash in


    hand, full of ambition. But the funding gap was huge. After buying the property, we didn''t have two


    dimes to rub together for state-of-the-art equipment. You all remember the desperation in that room,


    right? Everyone was frantic, talking about raising more funds. And you all remember when I brought in


    the overseas investment. That so-called overseas investment was this very sum. It took me five whole


    months to liquidate those properties, losing ten million dors in the process.


    So we decided to make the additional investment in her name. To boost everyone''s morale, I presented


    it as overseas funding and kept the major shareholder''s identity under wraps, starting the authorization


    process and taking full responsibility for it. Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    You all remember the excitement when that investment came in. Our legal team documented


    everything with signed papers!"


    With a gesture from my dad, the legal experts presented all the right proofs.


    My dad then turned to Kemp...

 Chapter 385

    Chapter 385


    As thest page of evidence fluttered to the table, my dad turned to face Kemp with a frosty edge in his


    voice. "Tell me, Kemp, what part of this is fabrication? The records of every single transaction are in


    your hands, ready for your scrutiny. I''m fully cooperative.


    Every penny here belongs to me. Which part did you im I concocted? Which penny was uwfully


    taken? Why on earth would I want to usurp VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals? What a joke! Let mey it out


    for you crystal clear, Kemp, VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals belongs to the Wilburn family, and I disdain even


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    to speak the word ''usurp'' you so carelessly tossed around."


    Kemp was dumbfounded and routed by my dad''s question.


    The crowd around us shifted uneasily, unsure of how to react.


    "I sacrificed everything to build something meaningful and promising with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. I


    sold off every asset we had, to give us all a shot at a legitimate and prosperous venture. You''ve all


    reaped the benefits over the years, filling your pockets to the brim. And now, here you are, biting the


    hand that feeds you. Where is your conscience?"


    Kemp''s face was a canvas of contorting emotions, his lips twitched, and he was left without a single


    retort.


    "And you think you can run thispany? That''s wishful thinking! If anyone should be asked, it''s me.


    Do I agree? Handing you the reins would spell disaster for VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals!"


    At that moment, Emmett, my dad''s trusted friend, couldn''t help but smirk, a look of contempt for Kemp


    in his eyes. "The audacity! Measuring others by your petty standards. Pathetic!"


    "You..." Kemp stuttered.


    "You''ve got some nerve, Kemp, handling the Wilburn family''s business like it''s a favor to cash in, even


    thinking of bumping up your share by two points. And what about your own dividends?" Emmett''s


    words were another blow to Kemp''s crumbling facade.


    My dad chuckled softly, "Even if you raised it by two points, do you really think VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals wouldst long in your hands? The thought isughable!"


    His tone was stern, each word meticulously chosen.


    The other shareholders, who had once strutted around with Kemp, now hung their heads low, trying to


    disappear into the floor.


    Kemp, faced with incontrovertible evidence, every transaction clear and above board, dividends fair


    and just, couldn''t find a single fault.


    Fuming, he grabbed the papers from the table and tore them like a madman, nearly biting them in his


    rage.


    Atst, he pointed at my dad and roared, "Galen, you sly fox, just wait. If there''s a loophole, I''ll find it!"


    With that, he kicked his chair over and made to leave, and ud, hisckey, rose to follow with a


    scowl, ready to slink away with his boss.


    Bet, who had been silent all this while, finally spoke. "Kemp, since we''veid all our cards on the


    table, please, sit back down. I have something to say. Don''t rush off just yet."


    I took a look at the papers in my hands, astonished by the content.


    Kemp, initially expecting some strategic report, went pale upon reading his copy. He looked to Bet


    with a gaping mouth and asked, "What... what are you implying?"


    Bet, calm andposed, addressed the room, "What''s the matter, Kemp? Do you have an


    objection?"


    "What do you mean?" Kemp''s voice had lost its earlier arrogance, now sounding like thest gasp of a


    spent force.

 Chapter 386

    Chapter 386


    Kemp''s eyes were wide with panic as Bet''s true intentions finally dawned on him. A halo of despair


    flickered across his face, but it was fleeting, quickly reced by a look of dark cunning.


    ¡°What are you ying at, Bet? What¡¯s your deal with Galen, huh?¡± Kemp¡¯s voice had a dangerous


    edge as he red into Bet¡¯s eyes.


    Bet let out a coldugh. ¡°Kemp, my deal with Mr. Wilburn? We''re business partners at VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals, kindred spirits with shared passions and aspirations. But let''s not dwell on that. Let¡¯s


    talk about you instead.¡±


    He then turned to address everyone in the room, his voice heavy with implication, ¡°Our dear Kemp here


    has been waiting for today''s opportunity for far too long, almost too eager. Since the rise of VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals, not only has he reaped a tidy profit, but he¡¯s also seen another kind of hope, one that


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    has fueled his greedy desires. He had his son exploit our product line for his own violent ends, using


    intimidation and bribery to coerce some of our regional sales managers into his pocket. Together,


    they''ve been siphoning from VitalAxis, leaving thepany hollow¡­¡±


    Bet was interrupted by Kemp, who, furious, leapt to his feet, pointing an using finger. ¡°That''s


    total nonsense! What''s your game with Galen, anyways? Standing up for him and tarnishing my


    reputation with your character assassination!¡±


    Bet remained silent, watching with cold detachment as Kemp ranted and raged until he was out of


    breath, his body shaking with indignation.


    ¡°Since Kemp doubts my statements, perhaps it''s time to let the real authority speak,¡± Bet said


    calmly.


    At his cue, the conference room doors swung open, and several solemn police officers marched in.


    They approached Kemp, confirmed his identity, and presented an arrest warrant. ¡°Kemp, you and your


    son are under arrest for exploiting VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals'' sales channels in illicit drug trafficking,


    passing off counterfeit drugs, manipting prices, and creating chaos in the pharmaceutical market.


    You''ve also been linked to international criminal organizations involved in organ trafficking,


    endangering public health. The amount involved is substantial, and we are here to take you into


    custody!¡±


    Kemp staggered backwards, stuttering in disbelief, ¡°No... no, this can''t be happening! We''ve done


    nothing wrong! This is a setup! Don¡¯t take me! I haven¡¯t broken thew¡­¡±


    The leading officer barked an order, ¡°Take him away!¡±


    Despite Kemp¡¯s resistance, he was quickly handcuffed by two officers, He still shouting. ¡°What about


    my son? You can¡¯t do this to me!¡±


    ¡°Your son has already been detained and has confessed to his crimes. There''s nothing left for you to


    worry about. Now, think about how you''re going to handle your own situation. You have the right to


    remain silent, but anything you say can and will be used against you in a court ofw. Take him away!¡±


    The officer then turned to look at ud. ¡°Are you ud?¡±


    ud, sensing danger, tried to slip away. ¡°No... you''ve got the wrong person!¡±


    ¡°ud, you are suspected of aiding and abetting Kemp in his crimes. You will need toe with us to


    assist in the investigation. Take him!¡±


    ¡°Evil begets its own demise! Better talk to the police,¡± Bet said sharply, his gaze fixed on ud.


    ¡°You¡¯ve beenplicit in these crimes, beyond redemption.¡±


    The police escorted Kemp and ud out of the room.


    As they left, ud kept shouting, ¡°Kemp, you promised wealth and glory if I followed you... You


    betrayed me... Kemp!¡± Re?d at Dr?m§Ñ?§àv§Öls

 Chapter 387

    Chapter 387


    The tension in the conference room was palpable as normalcy returned, leaving a silence that was


    almost deafening. The mood, however, remained grim.


    Several shareholders, who once had close ties with Kemp, shivered involuntarily, shrinking back in their


    seats as if they were desperate for the long-awaited shareholders'' meeting to conclude.


    Bet cleared his throat and spoke with an apologetic tone, "Sorry to keep you all waiting! I promised


    we''d wrap this up in an hour, and time is up..."


    Those who felt as if a great weight had been lifted straightened their spines, allowing themselves a sigh


    of relief and daring to look up atst.


    But the moment they raised their heads, they were met with Bet''s piercing gaze that seemed


    omnipresent, turning their faces ashen with fear.


    Bet scanned the room decisively and continued, "However, an hour is only enough to expose


    Kemp''s true color. Now, it''s time to address the recent turmoil within VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals."


    His words hit the room with such force that some people became breathless with palpable rm. I


    couldn''t help but sneer with disdain. It was clear they knew exactly what they had done.


    And my respect for my father grew; he truly was an old fox. He had used Kemp as a bait to lure those


    betrayers within VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Then, under the guise of introducing a new product, he was


    cleansing the ranks. Brilliant! Bet¡¯s next words confirmed my thoughts.


    "It saddens me to say that among us sit the remnants of Kemp and ud''sckeys, still skulking about.


    As the saying goes, ''What goes aroundes around,'' and today, it''s time for a housecleaning at


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals."


    After his deration, Bet raised his hand like a conductor''s baton, and his secretary promptly


    distributed a stack of documents.


    I watched as some resisted taking the papers, while others, curious and eager, grabbed them without


    hesitation.


    Bet''s resonant voice filled the room. "Your actions have threatened the healthy progress of


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Mr. Wilburn has always been patient, tolerating your shameful behavior


    because you were the pioneers who built thispany with him.


    But today, I, Bet, as the sole technical shareholder of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, must dere that


    my team and I can no longer tolerate such individuals within ourpany, nor choose them as our


    partners. Since you''ve decided to join forces with the likes of Kemp, I''m afraid the only option is for you


    to leave VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals."


    Emmett stood up, mming his hand on the table. "Atst! This is exactly what we needed! Mr.


    Wilburn, we started with the ambition to build something great, but these turncoats have forgotten their


    roots, only concerned with lining their own pockets. How much money have you made for them over


    the years? Yet, their greed knows no bounds; they even plotted to kick you out, the very benefactor


    who lifted them up. Such treachery is intolerable, and we must excise these cancers from our midst!"


    His words stirred a chorus of agreement, the room echoing with loud endorsements.


    The few who had matters to settle fidgeted ufortably.


    Emmett continued, "If they had invested their shares elsewhere, they would''ve likely gone bankrupt by


    now. Yet they have the audacity to reach for more money here. They''ve contributed nothing, yet have


    the gall to act against our interests. By giving them so much, you''ve been more generous than they


    deserve, and still, they show no gratitude¡ªworse than ingrates! Mr. Richardson is right; we cannot


    tolerate their greed any longer!"


    "Ungrateful wretches! They must go! Clean them out!"


    Bet revealed his first smile of the day. "Then let me formally announce that the new anti-tumor


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    NT11, will soon be in production on our very own lines." Re§Ñd at


    Cheers erupted from the crowd.

 Chapter 388

    Chapter 388


    Bet''s gaze held the weight of irond certainty as he spoke without a hint of doubt, "You''d better


    double-check the records to see if the facts we''ve uncovered are urate. Have we wrongly used


    you? If so, speak now or forever hold your peace! If not, then I suggest you leave immediately. Just so


    you know, the police have every one of you on file, and it won''t be long before theye knocking.


    Today, you were spared from being taken in by the police thanks to Mr. Wilburn''s mercy. You¡¯d best


    count your blessings."


    With that, he fixed his stare on the few profit-seekers, his gaze sweeping over them as they turned


    various shades of pale.


    The rest of the shareholders watched, those with clear consciences stood unfazed, while the guilty


    exchanged helpless, frantic looks.


    Finally, an older man, covering his face, stood up. Under everyone''s attention, he made a swift exit


    from the conference room, followed by the others, scrambling out in utter disarray.


    Suddenly, the room erupted in spontaneous, thunderous apuse. Seizing the moment, Bet


    proudly introduced the major shareholder to those who remained ¨C and just like that, I became the


    legitimate owner of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals.


    After the meeting ended, my father and I had a long talk in his office, talking about reflections,


    gratitude, and our blueprints. I have to say, it was the first time I truly understood my father.


    As I stepped out of VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, for some reason, the person I most wanted to see was


    Addrion - my senior who had striven alongside me in Goldenvale Town.


    Getting into the car, I said to Hannah, "Let''s head to the hospital. I want to see how Addrion is doing."


    When we arrived at Addrion''s hospital room, he was taken aback by my visit at such an hour but


    quickly greeted me with a smile, "What brings you here at this time?"


    As I walked in, I quipped back, "What, is there a schedule for visiting you now?"


    "Of course not, mydy! You''re wee anytime," he hurriedly offered me a seat, studying my face.


    "You seem down, what''s up?"


    "On the contrary, today was delightful in every way!" I flopped down onto the sofa, feigning


    nonchnce, "So I thought I''de see you."


    "Spill it! Drop the act!" He didn''t buy my bluff for a second, sitting across from me,zily coaxing me to


    open up.


    Truth be told, he understood me because we were so familiar with each other.


    "Addrion, get well soon, okay? You need toe back to Goldenvale Town with me," I dodged the


    question, "And you''ll have to take care of Medsafe Liyah Inc."


    "What about you?" he asked, perplexed.


    "I¡¯ve got too much on my te!" I responded, feeling a sudden, inexplicable sense of loneliness.


    "Medsafe Liyah Inc. should have been yours too! It was you who helped me build it, who helped me


    be the strong and outstanding daughter in my parents'' eyes. All of it is inseparable from your


    support."


    "What¡¯s gotten into you today?Why are you so sentimental all of a sudden?" He reached to get an


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    orange, offering it to me like he was soothing a little girl, "Here, eat this, and you''ll feel better."


    I chuckled, epting it. "You remember I like oranges?"


    "Of course!" Addrion smiled contentedly. "Back then, you had me and Ronan running around buying


    these for you!"


    Iughed, taking the orange from his hand, "Who had you running? You guys were the ones always


    offering to buy them."


    "And dare we forget? Coming back empty-handed to hear, ''You didn''t get me oranges''? We wouldn¡¯t


    risk it," Addrion shook his head with a helpless smile.


    "Maybe it''s just because you haven''t been working for a while," he suggested, looking at me.


    "No," I shook my head. "it''s an indescribable premonition."


    "You''re overthinking it. After all... ten years of life are about to change, you''re starting anew. It''s natural


    to feel lost!" Addrion always knew me well. "When are you heading back to Goldenvale Town?"


    Co?tent of Dr?manov§Öls


    "We''ll see."

 Chapter 389

    Chapter 389


    Catherine''s words piqued my curiosity instantly, and I immediately shot back, "Who?"


    Simultaneously, the image of Zora popped into my head. Could it be Zora who had gone to the airport


    to pick Jan up?


    It was entirely possible, especially since Zora was currently at the hospital taking care of Hazel.


    Knowing that Jan was back in Goldenvale Town, it would be perfectly normal for her to pick him up


    from the airport. But what Catherine said next caught mepletely off guard.


    "Ha... Renata! Renata picked him up!"


    There was a mix of disdain and anger in Catherine''s voice. "Can you believe that jerk? I mean, I was


    wondering why I couldn''t spot him the moment he stepped out of the terminal. Turns out he was


    deliberately avoiding me!"


    I had to agree with Catherine; he and Catherine were enemies, and he obviously knew the drama that


    would ensue if Catherine saw Renata picking him up.


    "Renata!" I muttered to myself, "Logically, he shouldn''t be in touch with her. Why would she pick him


    up?" I voiced my doubts, especially considering Jan''s cold demeanor towards Renata at thest


    celebration party. It didn''t quite add up.


    "Allie, can you believe this guy? One moment he''s in Silverdale City, all lovey-dovey with you, and the


    next, he''s back here, hooking up with other women. How low can you go?"


    I chuckled, "Why are you so worked up? Whoever hooks up with him is just out of luck."


    "I''m just so pissed! I''m tailing him, and I want to see just how desperate he is." Catherine was seething,


    and a car horn red through the phone, indicating she was on the road.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Catherine''s words took me aback, and I quickly pressed, "You''re following him?"


    "Yeah! I want to see where he''s going with that woman," Catherine said defiantly, "I''m really curious if


    there''s something going on between him and Renata."


    I tried to dissuade her, "Catherine, curiosity killed the cat. Just tell me where he is, and I''ll have Hannah


    notify Quincy to follow him!"


    "What? How can I tell you their exact location when they''re on the move?" Catherine retorted,


    stubbornly set in her ways.


    Hannah interjected, "Allie, just tell her toe back. Quincy can track Jan''s location. I''ll notify him


    right away, and he''ll find Jan!"


    I pressed Catherine, "You heard her, right? Quincy can locate him. He''ll find him soon, so stop following


    and head back!"


    I was genuinely worried that Jan would spot Catherine. That wouldn''t end well; even a worm will


    turn, and I feared Catherine would be at a disadvantage.


    Catherine, clearly impatient with me, said, "Fine, fine, I get it. I''m hanging up!"


    Before I could say another word, she disconnected the call. I shrugged at Hannah, "That''s Catherine


    for you. Always ready for a fight."


    "She''s always at odds with Jan. Seeing him cozy up to Renata must''ve really ticked her off," Hannah


    said, understanding Catherine''s mood all too well.


    "Truth be told, the moment Jan walked out of the Wilburn vi''s door, I said my goodbyes. Going


    back to Goldenvale Town would mean we''re nothing but strangers," I confessed to Hannah.


    Hannah, probably not wanting to dampen my spirits, didn''t respond and changed the subject instead.


    "Allie, we should call Cami."


    That reminded me. Since arriving in Silverdale City, I had only sent a quick message to Cami upon


    Hannah nced my way and asked, "No answer?"


    "No," I replied, setting the phone aside and looking out the car window. We were almost home.


    I suggested to Hannah, "Let''s swing by the Wood Manor first. See if they''re still there." Co?tent of


    Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    Hannah''s face lit up with a smile.


    I was about to reply when my phone, which I was still holding, began to ring.

 Chapter 390

    Chapter 390


    I nced down at my phone and saw that it was Cami calling back.


    Hannah gave a quick look at the phone as she continued to drive, and I quickly picked up. "Hey,


    Cami!"


    "Aaliyah, I was in the kitchen and didn''t hear your call!" Her voice sounded cheerful, "Is Fidelia


    behaving?"


    "Absolutely! She''s been in high spirits since we got here, so I totally forgot to call you back. It was


    Hannah who reminded me!" I confessed honestly, not hiding a thing, "You don¡¯t need to worry. Monique


    has been with her every step of the way!"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Yeah, Fidelia told me over the phone. She''s all giggles now!" Cami''s voice choked up a bit, "She''s


    never been this happy back home with me!"


    "Well, they''re learning together, running wild around the streets. How could she not be happy? With my


    girl Monique keeping herpany, how could she possibly behave?" I chuckled openly, "She''s


    adjusted so well and hasn''t been shy like you warned!"


    "Her dad asked about her just yesterday!"


    My heart tightened before I asked, "Did you tell him? That she''se to Silverdale City?"


    "I did. I told him Fidelia''s with you in Silverdale City!" Cami''s tone was gentle, seemingly without


    concern.


    I had this unsettling feeling, "Is Jerome back home?"


    "No, he just made a phone call, inquiring about Fidelia," Cami said calmly.


    "Oh! I thought he was back and was worried about not seeing Fidelia around." Iughed it off, probing


    intentionally, "You told him I took her away, and did he say anything? And didn''t you ask where he''s


    at?"


    "No, he didn''t say much. Don''t worry! He rarely gets involved with us anyway," Cami said,


    downying the matter.


    She never did say how Jerome reacted to the news of me taking Fidelia away. But his sudden call to


    Cami, asking about Fidelia, was telling.


    It meant he knew Fidelia was in Silverdale City.


    I skirted around the topic, asking a few questions about Jerome, but Cami was vague. I didn''t dare


    press any further.


    After some small talk, we ended the call, and I turned to Hannah. "Jerome knows Fidelia''s here in


    Silverdale City!"


    "I heard. Seems like he''s probably still in Goldenvale Town," Hannah muttered.


    Something didn''t sit right with me, a sense of unease lingering.


    As we arrived at the Wood Manor, we parked the car and walked in together. It was eerily quiet¡ªI


    thought no one was home. But as we stepped inside, I froze. There they were, scattered around, fast


    asleep. Looked like they''d pulled an all-nighter.


    I tugged at Hannah, and we tiptoed back out before I whispered, "Looks like they stayed up all night!"


    "Allie, I''ll drop you off and thene back to order them some dinner!" Hannah nced back


    reluctantly.


    "Sure, go ahead and order now. It¡¯s just a short walk from home! Don''t worry about me!" I reassured


    her, knowing she was worried about Larkin.


    "It¡¯s okay. Just let them sleep a bit more. I''ll drop you off. It''s no trouble! We can orderter!" Hannah


    insisted on sending me home. I knew she wouldn''t dare leave me alone.


    No need to guess¡ªit was the panoramic map of Oldtown Avenue.


    I gestured Hannah to go. This time, she didn''t hesitate, nodded, and left.


    I joined the group, and my dad nced up. "You''re back! Come, take a look at this map. Have you


    seen it before?"


    I hurried over, and Probert made room for me, "Mom, over here!" Read at


    I took the heavy booklet with both hands, its pages made of professional blueprint paper, impressively


    assembled.


    But as I opened the booklet, I waspletely astonished.

 Chapter 391

    Chapter 391


    Flipping through the booklet, the illustrations were as clear and detailed as architectural blueprints.


    The drawings were a bit rough around the edges,cking the precision of professional ns, but each


    was crafted ording to architectural standards. Every measurement was meticulously noted, even


    the corners were marked, making everything immediately clear at a nce.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    The meticulousness extended to the locations measured¡ªevery street, every alley, every neighbor


    was clearly indicated, down to the exact ce where any permanent object stood.


    I went through several pages in astonishment. Then I turned to my dad with disbelief and asked,


    "This... Is this their handiwork?"


    A few proud smiles broke out among them.


    Probert looked at me, his eyes wide with excitement. "Mom, this is what we''ve achieved in this time.


    Cool, huh?"


    "It''s amazing! How did you... How did you manage to do this? It''s so professional! Even architectural


    ns aren''t this thorough!" My praise was genuine, straight from the heart.


    I was utterly astounded.


    "Dad, is this really their work?" I asked, seeking confirmation in disbelief.


    "Mom, why would you doubt it? Don''t you believe in our abilities?" Monique immediately challenged my


    expression, her tone slightly indignant.


    "I don¡¯t mean that, I''m just... just shocked!" I quickly rified.


    At that, they allughed again. Finally, my dad said, "They took this very seriously. Sometimes, for the


    sake of uracy, they''d start over multiple times! They never cked off. Even the professionals from


    the Architect''s Guild were impressed, saying it was incredibly valuable."


    I pointed to an illustration in the booklet. "Then, who taught them this standard architectural drafting?


    Dad, was it you?"


    He nodded. "It''s not difficult. I just showed them a temte, exined a bit, and after a couple of days,


    they''ve got it!" He spoke with such ease and delight.


    "I''ve always told you not to underestimate the kids'' ability to learn. Often, you just need to invest some


    time, be with them, provide a bit of guidance, and that''s all!" My dad said, eager to prove his point.


    "Mom, we measured it all by hand, so we remember every nook and cranny. This way, we''ll manage it


    like the back of our hand!" Monique''s little face was all seriousness, her demeanor impressively


    authoritative.


    I felt a surge of pride. To hear such ambition from Monique was remarkable. But I knew deep down it


    was my dad''s guidance that made the difference. Without him truly putting his heart into it, such results


    would have been impossible.


    Watching Monique speak with such confidence, talking about future management, she already


    assumed the role of a proprietor.


    I feigned skepticism, "But this is a huge project, not something you can finish in a day or two. It''s


    tedious..."


    "Not at all!" Monique cut me off before I could finish, shaking her little head with conviction. "It''s not as


    tedious as you make it sound. I actually think it''s fun."


    "Why do you say that?" I asked, focusing on her.


    She began to exin, "Each of these houses has its own style and character, not like those city


    buildings where every apartment is the same, everyyout is identical, and even the decorations often


    match. It''s so uniform, and it feels like you''ve walked into the wrong home because they all look like


    your own."


    Her words were well thought out, and I was speechless. It was clear she had absorbed her


    grandfather''s teachings.


    I could hear her personal take on it.


    My dadughed heartily, immediately praising her, "Well said. Well done¡ªthat''s the attitude of


    someone who works with heart!" Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    Monique lit up as if energized. "So, how could I find such work tedious?"


    She was countering my point.

 Chapter 392

    Chapter 392


    Monique¡¯s eyes darted around, seemingly stumped by my words, then nced at her grandpa before


    suddenly dering, ¡°What''s the big deal about time? Grandpa, I''ll just move to Silverdale City for


    school! Is that alright?¡±


    Clearly, I had lit a fire under her. She was ready to go all in,e hell or high water.


    I was secretly thrilled, knowing I still had a knack for pushing Monique''s buttons. She was a hot-


    blooded dynamo who thrived on challenges andmitted wholeheartedly once provoked.


    With her chin defiantly jutted out, Monique added pressure on my dad, ¡°Grandpa, you promised if I got


    to know this ce like the back of my hand, I¡¯d get to run Oldtown Avenue. You have to keep your


    word!¡±


    Dad watched Monique and I talk, each of us unwilling to back down, with a smug grin.


    I knew he was the real kingpin behind the scenes!


    ¡°Monique, when have I ever broken a promise? Anyone who wants to do big things has to mean what


    they say and keep their word. If you truly get to know Oldtown Avenue inside and out, you¡¯ll be its


    queen!¡±


    Geez, listen to him¡ªthe old fox spinning yarns to the kids again.


    Monique''s face went through a kaleidoscope of expressions as she listened to grandpa''s spiel.


    ¡°And if you start delving into it now, by the time you¡¯ve mastered it, you¡¯ll be handling it like a pro. You¡¯ll


    be legendary.¡±


    I nearly choked. Legendary, huh?


    ¡°Legendary?¡± Monique asked.


    My father nodded with certainty and answered, ¡°Exactly! People will write about how Monique Dawson,


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    at the tender age of ten, began her in-depth exploration of Oldtown Avenue, documenting every


    Imagine that. You¡¯d undoubtedly be the uncontested Queen of Oldtown Avenue! Your mom is only the


    princess, and you will be the queen. But it all hinges on you truly mastering Oldtown Avenue.¡±


    I was speechless. So now I¡¯m just a princess and she''s the queen above me.


    ¡°I can do it!¡± Monique¡¯s tone was resolute. ¡°I¡¯ve decided. I''m going to study in Silverdale City and watch


    over Oldtown Avenue!¡±


    Then she looked at me. ¡°Mom, you can''t disagree. This way, I can also keep grandpa and grandma


    She stood there, a little warrior ready for battle, ying her hand at both sweet talk and strong-arm


    tactics.


    Dad and I exchanged a knowing look. A smile crept across my face. Bingo! Another issue was


    resolved. I had been worried Monique wouldn''t agree to stay in Silverdale City for school. But here she


    was, volunteering.


    Once she had agreed, there was no turning back. As long as she was on board, there would be no


    room for second thoughts.


    And in my heart, I felt relieved. With the uing battle for Medsafe Liyah Inc., having her stay put


    was a genuinefort. The Dawsons were a wild card; they were capable of anything.


    Her eyes brimmed with unshed tears, yet she stubbornly held them in, refusing to allow any to escape


    down her cheeks. I was shocked, ¡°People said that? That¡¯s just evil!¡± Co?tent §àf


    Clearly, someone had spread the news of my illness, twisting it into a cruel joke.


    Monique nodded sadly. ¡°Yeah, that''s what they said! So I was mad, but then I''de home and find


    you really were in bed. What could I do?¡±

 Chapter 393

    Chapter 393


    I was at a loss for words, truly dumbfounded. Never in my wildest dreams had I thought that Monique


    would have such an ordeal. No wonder she used to show that distaste and resistance towards me.


    It was only now that I realized how wrong it was to send her off to that fancy private school in


    Goldenvale Town.


    I should''ve never taken Jan''s advice, which was, in turn, influenced by the high and mighty Dawson


    family.


    Back then, I lost myself and became a yes-woman to everyone. The regret was eating me alive. What


    on earth had I done? Thank goodness I came to my senses.


    Instinctively, I reached out and pulled her into my embrace, gently patting her back. "I''m so sorry,


    sweetheart! It was all my fault. I didn''t take good care of you. But I won''t be sick anymore. I''ll get fit,


    healthy, and watch you and your siblings grow up happy and strong!"


    She clung to me tightly, burying her little face in my chest, her small shoulders shaking.


    My heart ached beyond words.


    Fidelia watched the scene with wide eyes, silent, but I could tell she was filled with envy.


    Out of the blue, Probert piped up with a question, "Mom, if Fidelia is going to study in Silverdale City,


    what about me? I don''t want to go back to that snooty school in Goldenvale Town either. I don''t like it


    there, and I don''t like anything that Grandma Dawson chooses!"


    The little rebel, at odds with Hazel. But frankly, I was relieved. Anything that distanced us from the


    Dawsons'' dreadful deeds was good news. I prayed that when their wrongdoings would inevitablye


    to light, it wouldn''t impact us too harshly.


    I turned to pinch his chubby cheek. "Well, if you want to stay with your grandparents here, I agree. It''ll


    be good for you to stay in Silverdale City and keep your sisterpany. Help her achieve her dreams."


    Probert''s face lit up, and he bounced on his feet excitedly. "Then it''s decided! I''ll study here in


    Silverdale City and help Fidelia with her dream."


    I prodded him further, "And what about your dream?"


    "What''s the rush for me? There''s plenty I can do. I''m going to be strong, like an oak tree, to protect


    Grandpa, Grandma, Mom, and my little brother!" Probert said with a casual confidence that gave me


    hope.


    "And what about me? Won''t you protect me too?" Monique teased, tugging at his arm.


    Probert looked serious for a moment, "Of course, I will. Didn''t I say I''d help you with your dream? If


    that''s not being supportive, I don''t know what is. You can''t get too greedy!"


    We allughed, and the sound even drew my mother in. She joined us, taking a seat beside our merry


    little group.


    I caught Fidelia blinking enviously, standing off to the side, watching our tight-knit family with a touch of


    sadness in her eyes.


    Quickly, I let go of Monique and pulled Fidelia into my arms, not wanting her to feel left out.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    Her words sent a jolt through me. Jerome had called her?


    I tried to keep myposure as I asked her, "Your dad called you? When?"


    "Just this afternoon," she replied innocently. New ch?pter av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "And what did he say?" I pressed on.


    My heart raced with concern.

 Chapter 394

    Chapter 394


    Hearing Fidelia''s words, my heart skipped a beat. I hadn''t expected Jerome to call her, asking about


    my home address and how things were on Oldtown Avenue. It set my nerves on edge.


    I quickly asked Fidelia, who was cuddled up in my arms, "Did your dad say when he''sing to pick


    you up? Is he driving over from Goldenvale Town?"


    "He said in a few days, but he didn''t specify when. Auntie, I... I don''t wanna go back. I wanna stay here,


    with Monique!" Her voice tapered off, a sign she knew deep down that her wish was unlikely toe


    true.


    After all, Cami treasured her like a diamond¡ªhow could she agree to let here all this way?


    "When we head back to Goldenvale Town, we''ll see what your mom thinks. If she agrees, then there''s


    no problem. Monique¡¯s grandparents here would wee you with open arms. But... your dad''s hardly


    ever home, so it makes it tough to discuss things with him!" I said this on purpose.


    "He was home today when he called me!" Fidelia insisted earnestly, "We even had a video chat!"


    She was quick to prove her point, worried I might not believe her.


    My earlier probing was aimed at coaxing out Jerome''s whereabouts. I hadn''t expected to uncover such


    a significant lead. No wonder Cami hadn''t answered my call right away that afternoon.


    I didn''t dare continue on this topic with Fidelia, fearing she might slip up like Cami had on the phone.


    Instead, I pondered for a moment before saying, "Alright, we''ll see if there''s a chance to bring it up


    when I get back to Goldenvale. Even if they don''t agree to let you study here, you could stille visit


    during the holidays. I''m confident about that. Your mom would definitely agree!" I offered Fidelia some


    Upon hearing this, she pressed, "Do you think she''ll really agree?"


    "Of course! Don''t you worry!" I replied with certainty.


    After all, Cami had realized that Fidelia was too introverted, and sinceing here, she''d be


    noticeably more outgoing. Why would she oppose something beneficial for her child?


    As for Jerome... well, by that time, he probably wouldn''t have a say in the matter.


    Monique, overhearing our discussion about Fidelia, immediately dragged her off to the side, saying,


    "Fidelia, I''ve got a way to talk to your mom about it! I think she''ll agree!"


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    They scurried away to whisper together, looking utterly adorable.


    My father and I watched the girls bond, a rare and precious sight.


    Seeing the weariness in my eyes, my mother quickly suggested, "Go get some rest, honey. You''ve


    been on your feet all day without a break."


    I said to my dad, "I''m going to head upstairs and take a rest."


    He nodded, and I made my way up, and then called Ronan to share the clue I had just discovered.


    He said steadily, "We''ve had him pegged in Goldenvale Town for a while, but we just couldn''t pinpoint


    his exact location. I didn''t expect him to be so cunning¡ªright as we pulled surveince from Cami''s


    ce, he showed up there! Seems we''ve got a leak to plug."


    Anxious, I asked, "Should we notify the police?"


    Ronan quickly responded, "Even if we did, he''d slip away. Our n is to spook him and draw out


    whoever''s backing him. The police are in this too. They wouldn''t let him roam free otherwise."


    His words warmed my heart instantly.


    I didn''t press further, fully grasping his intentions. It would be unfair to demand more from him.


    After hanging up, my thoughts turned to Cami. If it hadn''t been for Fidelia''s mention, I wouldn''t have


    guessed Cami was capable of lying. Perhaps she was just too scared to tell me the truth. New


    ch?pter av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    With that in mind, I quickly freshened up andy down on my bed, finally feeling the day''s exhaustion


    wash over me.


    Annoyed, I set the phone down, thinking she was bing increasingly unreliable, never calling to


    check in or give an update.

 Chapter 395

    Chapter 395


    But I was certain that Catherine must have been tailing Jan to the very end. That''s just in her


    character. If you dare tell her not to do something, she''ll do it just out of spite.. She''s a real ''charge into


    the lion''s den'' kind of gal.


    I couldn¡¯t help sigh. It was because of me she was in this mess.


    ncing at my phone, I figured I wouldn''t wait any longer. She''d seen my missed call. She''d call back


    the minute she could.


    Reflecting on the day''s events felt like I had ridden a roller coaster. The most unexpected twist? I had


    be a major shareholder in VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, just like that.


    I had to admit, my dad was really something. He yed everyone like a chess master, even making a


    purge look like a walk in the park.


    And Ronan, the ''executioner''? Man, he was on fire. How those two worked that silent pact without my


    knowledge was beyond me.


    Looks like I had some serious learning to do. My dad''s decisive ruthlessness was not to be


    underestimated.


    No wonder Ronan hinted that my dad had an ace up his sleeve. An ace that proved to be ruthlessly


    efficient.


    But I knew that what seemed straightforward was anything but. It required patience, endurance, and


    the ability to y the long game.


    What level of cunning does one need to pull that off? When had my dad mastered that art? It was a


    mystery to me. He always seemed like a jolly, approachable guy. Who would have guessed he could


    be just as calcted and ruthless when the situation called for it?


    Lost in these thoughts, I didn''t realize when I drifted off to sleep. But it wasn''t a peaceful rest; bizarre


    dreams haunted me all night.


    I was in that hazy state between sleep and wakefulness, feeling groggy and headachy.


    Then, in that half-dream state, I saw Catherine frantically banging on the car window, her face etched


    with terror and despair. That jolted me awake.


    I sat up and peered outside. The sky was a dull gray. I checked my phone. It was 4 a.m. Dawn was


    near. I wondered when Hannah hade home.


    The headache made me feel weak, but a sip of water from the nightstand refreshed me a bit.


    Catherine''s panicked face in my dream lingered in my mind. Should I call her again? She was a night


    owl;st night''s bedtime was anyone''s guess.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    More likely than not, she was still sleeping soundly. I decided to wait a bit longer before trying her


    again.


    She was notorious, the kind of person people crossed the street to avoid.


    I had seen her once from a distance as she was entering a club on the arm of some older guy. It was


    Hannah who pointed her out to me. But I couldn''t understand why she''d be picking up Jan from the


    airport. Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    Suddenly, a chilling thought crossed my mind, sending shivers down my spine...

 Chapter 396

    Chapter 396


    The idea hit me like a freight train, and suddenly I was too wired to sleep.


    I sprang up from my bed, grabbed the phone again, and dialed Catherine''s number without a second


    thought. My heart sank as it rang unanswered, yet again.


    Panic set in. I threw back the covers and paced the room, my heart pounding. I redialed her number


    every few minutes, but the result was the same - no answer.


    Something was off, terribly off. Catherine would never miss a call at this hour.


    Ditching any further hesitation, I dialed Logan''s number instead. He picked up almost instantly, his


    voice husky with sleep, "Hey, what''s up?


    I cut to the chase, "Logan, where are you exactly? Still in Silverdale City?"


    ¡°You know I''m at the Wood Manor, right?" He grumbled something incoherent, followed by the sound of


    rustling sheets. He must''ve been sleeping lightly; otherwise, he wouldn''t have answered so quickly.


    "I''m on my way," I said, and hung up before he could ask any questions.


    Rushing to the door, I realized I was still in my pajamas ¨C not exactly appropriate attire for a house full


    of guys. I dashed back, slipped into a dress, and hurried out the door.


    ncing at the clock, it read 4:45 a.m. ¨C most people would be sound asleep.


    The house was eerily quiet, but as I passed the living room, I heard rustling noises.


    I stopped dead in my tracks. Could it be my dad up this early?


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Creeping forward, I peeked inside and spotted Gemma, taking photos of some blueprints sprawled


    across the coffee table.


    She was so engrossed in her task that she hadn''t noticed me standing there.


    As her hand reached for arger blueprint, my voice sliced through the silence, "What are you doing


    with those?"


    Startled, Gemma fumbled, and her phone ttered to the floor with a loud smack.


    She looked up at me, eyes wide with terror, lips quivering as she stuttered, "M-Miss, I was just...


    curious about the kids'' drawings. I thought..."


    Icy calm, I bent down to straighten the papers. "Curious? Then why the secrecy? You seem very


    interested in those. What are you nning to do with them? These are the kids'' hard work. If you mess


    them up, it''s all for nothing. What is it with you, always snooping around?"


    That''s when Hannah strode into the room, rmed. "What''s going on?"


    I red at Gemma and said, "She was sneaking around and taking photos!"


    Her excuses were a jumbled mess. I ignored her, picking up her phone from the ground. She lunged for


    it, but Hannah blocked her with a firm hand.


    Gemma''s eyes narrowed in defiance, "There''s nothing on my phone, Miss!" Read at


    I looked up at Gemma, my gaze frosty. "Care to exin?"

 Chapter 397

    Chapter 397


    Her eyes were brimming with unshed tears as she looked at me, her face was pale as a ghost, her lips


    were trembling wildly and a fine mist of perspiration dotted the bridge of her nose.


    ¡°I¡­I¡­¡± she stuttered over the word multiple times, but couldn¡¯t seem to form a coherent sentence.


    I had been in a rush to leave, but now I sat down firmly, mming her cell phone down on the coffee


    table.


    Leaning back, I gave her a frosty stare. She shivered. ¡°Miss, I didn¡¯t mean anything by it, I was just¡­


    just messing around with the camera. I couldn''t sleep, so I got up, saw you all having a st chatting


    ¡°Cut to the chase!¡± I snapped, my tone anything but gentle, ¡°After you took the photos, where did you


    send them?¡±


    This was an unexpected windfall. I hadn¡¯t nned on dealing with her, but she had practically walked


    into the line of fire. The content on her phone was shocking, enough to make me fear the worst.


    I can¡¯t let her stick around.


    Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t send them! Miss, you can¡¯t me me, but I didn¡¯t send¡­ I don¡¯t even know how to send stuff. I


    was just taking photos without thinking¡­¡± she babbled on.


    I was about to speak when my phone rang. I grabbed it immediately, hoping for an important call, but it


    was Logan.


    ¡°Allie, are you ying games with me?¡± Logan¡¯s voice came throughzily.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be there in a jiffy! Hold on!¡± I told Logan on the other end of the line, then hung up.


    ncing at the clock, it was already five. I turned to Hannah, who was standing nearby, ¡°Keep an eye


    on her. I¡¯ll be back soon!¡±


    With that, I snatched the phone from the coffee table and headed out.


    Gemma panicked when she saw me take her phone, calling out, ¡°Miss¡­¡±


    She tried to follow me, but Hannah stepped forward, arms crossed, blocking her path with a chilling


    warning, ¡°I¡¯d advise you to stay put and not make a fuss!¡±


    I didn¡¯t have time to waste, hurrying out the door.


    Once outside, I sprinted toward the Wood Manor, my mind racing with unease.


    The short dash of less than 500 meters had me having a hard time catching my breath.


    Reaching the gates, I stopped and leaned on the wall at the entrance, gasping for breath as if my chest


    would burst.


    At that moment, the gate of the Wood Manor swung open, and Ronan stepped out.


    He wasn¡¯t surprised to see me, immediatelying to my aid. ¡°Allie, what¡¯s the emergency?¡±


    ¡°Ronan, we need to find Catherine,¡± I panted, then after catching my breath, continued, ¡°I can¡¯t get a


    hold of her. I¡¯ve been calling non-stop... No answer. No one¡¯s picking up¡­ Something¡¯s off. This has


    never happened before!¡±


    Ronan took out his phone and tried calling Catherine as well. I watched him anxiously, and after a


    moment, he hung up and asked me, ¡°Why do you think something happened to her?¡±


    Just then, Logan came out, yawning, ¡°Allie, why are you standing outside? Come on in.¡±


    I gestured to Ronan and signaled Logan to follow us into the Wood Manor.


    Turning to Logan, I asked, ¡°Has Catherine called youtely? When¡¯s thest time you heard from her?¡±


    Logan looked puzzled and asked, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Logan reached for his phone to dial, but Ronan cut in. ¡°Her phone¡¯s turned off!¡±


    ¡°What? It was ringing when I tried from home!¡± I insisted, dialing again, only to confirm it was switched


    off. Co?tent belo?gs to Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Panic set in, and I looked helplessly at Ronan.


    ¡°Don¡¯t panic. Tell me what happened!¡±

 Chapter 398

    Chapter 398


    The news all but confirmed my worst fears - Catherine was in trouble.


    I nced at the timestamp of ourst call - 3 o''clock in the afternoon. Now, ten hours had passed.


    Panic wed at my insides. I turned on my heel, muttering, "I need to get back to Goldenvale Town. I


    have to find her!"


    Ronan''s reflexes were lightning-fast as he grabbed my arm. "Allie, hold up. Logan''s on it. We''ll act on


    solid leads."


    "Ten hours, Ronan! She''s been out of touch for ten hours!" My voice broke in desperation. "All alone in


    Goldenvale!"


    "Just give us a minute! Trust me, my guys are faster," Ronan soothed me.


    I took a deep breath, trying topose myself. Logan was stone-faced, constantly on the phone,


    coordinating the search.


    His men, roused from sleep, were now in full work mode.


    Suddenly, Ronan asked, "What about Hannah?"


    That''s when I remembered the unresolved issue at home. It seemed like everything was piling on at


    once. I briefed Ronan on the mess with Gemma.


    Then I remembered I was still holding Gemma''s phone. Handing it to Ronan, I said, "Get someone to


    crack this phone. I need to deal with her once and for all. She can''t stay in my house anymore."


    Ronan took the phone and signaled to Derek. "Derek, extract everything!"


    Derek nodded, an OK sign shing as he took the device.


    Ronan filled me in on Gemma''s background and assured me, "Just send her to the police. We''ll shore


    up the evidence. We need this quiet - no scarecrows in the cornfield."


    "That was my biggest worry," I said, nowpletely reassured.


    Soon, the secrets from Gemma''s phone wereid bare - messages, photos, call logs. But most


    revealing were the voice recordings, especially one capturing her conversation with Jan in her yard,


    every word intact.


    I was ecstatic. "Perfect, with this, she''s done!"


    Watching Logan and the others swamped with work, I caught Ronan at a brief pause. "You guys keep


    at it. I''m heading home. Call me with any news; I can head back to Goldenvale Town at a moment''s


    notice. I can''t let Catherine face this alone, but I need to deal with Gemma first."


    "Go," Ronan said bluntly. "You''re no help here."


    I knew it. I was superfluous in the way while they worked remotely on Goldenvale''s situation.


    Every second was precious for Catherine. I couldn''t waste her chances.


    With a heavy heart, I left the bustling Wood Manor and set my n. Once Gemma was handled, I''d


    make for Goldenvale.


    Hannah listened, expressionless, her face saying, "Let the bitch talk."? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She knew I''d be back soon.


    Seeing me, Hannah shed a grin, raising an eyebrow.


    Gemma mmed up at my entrance, her anxious eyes betraying guilt. Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    "Hannah, call the police," I said, cutting to the chase.


    Her retort made meugh out loud. The nerve of her!

 Chapter 399

    Chapter 399


    Seeing my reaction, her audacity seemed to grow. She even had the nerve to sass me, her voice


    dripping with a smugness that was begging to be challenged. "Police don''t care about a few lousy


    photos, do they?"


    "True, the police don''t sweat the small stuff," I replied with a yful smirk. "The real question is, what


    exactly have you been up to? You know what you''ve done."


    "I haven''t done anything!" she retorted with a false grin, tossing her head in a manner that was


    incredibly irksome.


    Mom had already gotten up and walked into the living room. Taking in the tense atmosphere and


    casting a quick nce at Gemma, she could almost guess the whole story. She asked pointedly,


    "What''s all thismotion about?"


    Gemma, with the air of someone who''d been wronged, snorted and said, "It''s your darling daughter


    over here, calling the police over nothing. Doesing here to work mean being stripped of my rights?


    Getting the police involved over some cell phone photos! You really don''t consider us nannies as


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    human beings, do you?"


    Her words were a direct jab at my mom.


    Hannah couldn''t take it anymore and interjected, "Are you even human, asking to be treated as one?


    Stop acting like you''re above everyone else. What''s given you the right to be so self-righteous?"


    Gemma, seeing it was Hannah who spoke up, flew into a rage, pointing at her and shouting, "Who are


    you to talk to me, anyway? You''re nothing! Aren''t you just a nanny too? We''re equals. What gives you


    the right to judge me?"


    "Nanny?" My mom echoed quizzically.


    "You''re mistaken. We don''t have ''nannies'' in this house. They''re all part of the family. But not you! And


    do you know why?" Mom didn¡¯t wait for me to speak up; she went on, "Because you don''t deserve to


    be a part of our family!"


    Gemma was evidently taken aback by My mom¡¯s words, her disbelief written all over her face.


    "Don''t look at my mom like that," I said coldly. "The only reason you''re still here is because of her


    kindness."


    "Kindness in this house? Please! You all act so high and mighty. What¡¯s so great about you? I might as


    well quit!" Gemma continued to delude herself, posturing arrogantly.


    Her expression was so detestable it could curdle milk. It was no wonder she was Marissa''s aunt.


    "You know, I''ve always treated you respectfully. Do you know why?" I asked, looking straight at her.


    Gemma froze, her eyes wide with disbelief, still exuding an air of defiance.


    I continued, disdain clear in my voice, "I respect you. Our family''s values are all about respecting our


    elders."


    "Don''t sugarcoat it!" she snapped back.


    "Girl, are people like her even deserving of respect?" My dad interrupted, unable to contain his


    frustration.


    "Gemma, do you even remember how you came into our house?" I asked her directly.


    "I¡­" She hesitated, her gaze shifting to my dad.


    As I mentioned Marissa, Gemma seemed shocked, as if she couldn''t believe what she was hearing.


    "You..."


    "Do you want to ask how I came to know that? As Marissa''s boss, I nurtured her, trusted her, and gave


    her the best position and the highest sry. But she backstabbed me, betrayed my trust, and that


    wasn''t enough¡ªshe even seduced my husband and had the audacity to sleep with his brother,


    shamelessly bearing a child with no clear father. It seems the education in your family is truly peculiar."


    Co?tent §àf Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    Gemma was speechless, but I wasn¡¯t about to give her a chance to recover, so I pressed on...

 Chapter 400

    Chapter 400


    I stared down Gemma, not leaving her a sliver of space to counter. "Marissa was quite the schemer,


    ying both sides with those Wilson brothers, stirring up storms as they plotted to take over my


    you know what happened to her in the end?"


    I pressed in, eyes narrowed maliciously at Gemma, a sneer spreading across my face, "She gambled


    away that precious child of hers, trying to save her own skin, never expecting that it would cost the kid''s


    life. And what she least expected was that she''d end up dead!"


    My words were casual, almost as if I was recounting a joke.


    "You''re lying. That can''t be..."


    Gemma''s eyes widened in disbelief, her gaze turning venomous as she stared at me. "You''re lying.


    Marissa took her child on a trip abroad. Stop cursing her. You''re nothing but a sickly mess on death''s


    doorstep. Don''t think just because your family has money, you can look down on everyone. Jealousy is


    an ugly thing. But no matter how rich you are, it won''t save you. You''re just a..."


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Before she could continue, Hannah had had enough. She raised her hand and pped Gemma across


    her chubby cheek. The sharp crack of the p echoed, silencing the room.


    Mom looked on with approval at Hannah''s action, pride glittering in her eyes.


    Dad remained stoic, acting as if nothing had happened.


    Hannah shook out her hand, her voice filled with righteous indignation, "You better retire to jail and


    enjoy your golden years!"


    The p did more than sting Gemma''s face; it shattered her bravado. She copsed, kneeling on the


    floor. Now she understood the stark difference between her position and Hannah''s.


    Gemma seemed to sense something amiss, her eyes pleading as she knelt, "Miss Wilburn, please, I


    haven''t done anything wrong. I''ve served your parents faithfully. I''ve been nothing but diligent. For the


    sake of the two months of service, you can''t let the police take me away. I''ve worked hard, if nothing


    else!"


    "Worked hard?" I scoffed coldly. "Do you even know what that means? Tell me the truth. Did you really


    do nothing?"


    This was herst chance.


    She straightened her back, defiant, "I did nothing!"


    "Fine, then tell me, who did you send those photos to?" I asked pointedly, tired of beating around the


    bush, my mind preupied with Catherine.


    "I didn''t send them. I wouldn''t send them to anyone!" She was still sticking to her story.


    "Then you can exin that to the police!" My patience had run dry. "You''ve squandered yourst


    chance!"


    "I haven''t broken thew." She looked to my father for support. "You can''t do this to me!"


    Without a word, I yed back the recording of her conversation with Jan. It was crystal clear ¨C she


    had taken Jan''s money and had even plotted to drug my mother!


    Hannah pped her once more, demanding, "Did you hear that clearly? Did you really do nothing?"


    Gemma''s face turned pale, her eyes zed over like those of a dead fish, shaking uncontrobly.


    "No, please, I beg you, don''t do this," she wailed, turning to my parents, "I made a mistake. It... it was


    Jan who made me do it! It wasn''t my intention... I''ve never wronged you. I would never..." She was


    slippery, trying to y the sympathy card. Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    My mom''s words were sharp as knives, her gaze icy.

 Chapter 401

    Chapter 401


    Just as the lights of the police car shed at the front door, Gemma slumped onto the ground, her eyes


    locked onto mine, void of any spirit. She asked in a hollow voice, "Is Marissa really dead? Is that true?"


    I stood up, ignoring herpletely, and began to talk to the officers about filing the report, handing


    them all the documents, and even the cellphone.


    Hannah made a point to remind the police to keep the details under wraps for the time being.


    As Gemma was about to be taken away, she suddenly lunged forward and yelled at me, "Did you kill


    Marissa? You wretched woman, you''ll pay for this! Officer, she''s a murderer, and she killed my niece!"


    I looked at her calmly, and spoke with deliberate rity, "Gemma, the precious child you speak of was


    killed by her own father, pushed down a drain, and the police are on his tail. Marissa took her own life


    by jumping from a building, but the authorities have ruled it a homicide. I''m sure they''ll let you know


    who''s responsible."


    Hearing this, Gemma copsed, her fight gone, as the police led her away. The officers arrived quickly


    and left just as swiftly, and since it was still early, not many were aware of the incident.


    I breathed a sigh of relief; tranquility was restored to the home.


    Just then, Helga came downstairs cradling Carl in her arms. When Carl saw me, he scrambled forward


    with his little legs, cheerfully proiming, "Mommy, I¡¯m hungry!"


    That reminded everyone ¨C we''d been so preupied with Gemma that we''d all forgotten about


    breakfast!


    Helga and Hannah shared augh as they made their way to the kitchen, while my mom stood up and


    said, "I''ll check what we''ve got to whip up something quick. The other three kids will be down soon,


    too!"


    Seeing them all bustling to prepare breakfast, I took Carl off Helga''s hands.


    I yed with Carl while chatting with my dad, "Dad, Hannah and I might need to head back to


    Goldenvale Town soon. We''ll set off right after breakfast."


    My dad looked up from his tablet, puzzled, "I thought you were staying a few more days. What''s got


    you thinking about heading back to Goldenvale Town?"


    I hesitated, debating whether to tell my dad about Catherine''s situation. But then, considering my dad''s


    experience and wisdom, there was no point in hiding it.


    "Dad... Catherine might be in trouble. We don''t know the details yet, but I have a feeling something''s


    wrong," I confided in a soft voice.


    Instantly, my dad set his tablet aside, looking up sharply, his voice taking on a severe tone, "What''s


    happened? Didn''t she return to Goldenvale Town yesterday? How could something have gone wrong?"


    After I shared the details with my dad, he mmed his hand on the armrest of the sofa with a curse,


    "That beast!" Then he looked at me and said, "Get on your way after breakfast. Have the driver take


    you to the airport. If there''s any news, let me know immediately."


    My dad nodded. "I hope we''re just overthinking it."


    I said with a touch of guilt, "After all, if anything does happen, the Dawson family is involved; we can''t


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    just stand by." Co?tent belo?gs to Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    My dad agreed, "You''re right, my girl. You need to go back. This is serious. We can''t let Catherine feel


    alone in her time of need. You must find her and bring her back from those animals!"


    I nodded again and, after a moment''s thought, asked with concern, "Dad, do you think we should let


    Kenney know about this?"

 Chapter 402

    Chapter 402


    Dad paced back and forth a few times, shaking his head as he finally broke the silence. "Let''s hold off


    on breaking the news just yet. After all, we still don''t have a clear picture of what''s going on. We can


    wait until we''re sure before we tell him. Let''s y it by ear."


    I nodded, understanding Dad''s concern. The Damons were local royalty in our small town, and


    Catherine, their only daughter, was their treasured gem. Despite being on her own far from home, she


    was adored by her parents, Kenney and his wife, who doted on her endlessly. If anything were to


    happen to her, the consequences would be unthinkable ¨C it would destroy them.


    The reason Catherine stayed in Goldenvale Town was purely for me, and the weight of that


    responsibility was crushing. The more I thought about it, the more anxious I became.


    If Jerome had found out andid a hand on her... there was no telling what he might do. I mean, the


    man didn''t hesitate to hurt his own son; what else was he capable of?


    The thought alone made it hard to breathe. I itched to fly back to Goldenvale Town right that second.


    Dad seemed to sense the gravity of the situation as well. He stopped his pacing and made a beeline for


    the door, calling over his shoulder, "I''m heading to Wood Manor to check on things!"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    At the door, he turned back to Hannah, who had juste out of the kitchen. "Hannah, dear, they must


    be swamped. Order them some food, okay?"


    "Sure thing!" Hannah responded with her usual effervescence.


    Once Dad had left, Hannah immediately got on the phone to order food for the Wood Manor folks.


    After making all the arrangements, she hung up and looked at me, only now understanding the reason


    behind my hasty departure that morning.


    "Do you think something''s happened to Catherine?" she probed.


    I nodded reluctantly. "If my gut feeling is right, then yes, something''s happened."


    Carl, noticing my distraction, tugged on my arm a bit too forcefully. "Mom! Mom!"


    I had to shake off my worries and give him my full attention.


    Breakfast was soon served, and Mom noticed Dad''s absence. "Where''s your father gone off to now?"


    I told her he''d gone to Wood Manor, and she muttered as she headed to the kitchen, "The man leaves


    without eating breakfast..."


    "Don''t worry, Valerie," Hannah quickly assured her. "I''ve just ordered them some food; he''ll have


    something to eat."


    The kids, freshly roused and dressed, thundered down the stairs and gathered around the breakfast


    table, a picture of domestic chaos.


    But amidst themotion, Monique asked, "Mom, I saw a police car earlier. What''s going on?"


    "Oh, they just needed to pick something up. It''s all sorted now," I lied, not wanting to rm them with


    the truth. Kids can be so curious, and a police visit was definitely a noteworthy event to report to the


    adults.


    Scanning the room, Monique followed up with, "Where''s Gemma?"


    Without missing a beat, Hannah covered for me, "Gemma had an emergency at home and had to


    leave."


    "Is she noting back?" Monique pressed.


    Quick to divert the conversation, Mom said, "Well, she''s got to take care of her family matters first,


    doesn''t she? Who knows!"


    Then, seizing the moment, Mom asked, "Do you like her?"


    "Not really, she''s so naggy and fake," Monique didn''t hold back. "She always asks questions, never


    stops!"


    Mom jumped at the chance to agree. "Then let''s not ask her back. I thought she was a bit of a


    busybody too."


    "Grandma, good call!" Monique eximed, giving Mom a thumbs up.


    Probert, sensing my unease, ced a boiled egg on my te. "Mommy, eat it. You need to keep your


    strength up and stay healthy. You promised us you wouldn''t get sick again." Upd§Ñted at


    Dr§Ñ§Þan§àvels.c§à§Þ


    His words hit me hard, and tears welled up in my eyes.


    I quickly nodded, fighting back tears. "You''re right, sweetie. I need to eat well and stay healthy."

 Chapter 403

    Chapter 403


    The three of them nodded obediently. Little Carl, perched on his booster seat, wobbled his head and


    dered, ¡°I wanna go back to Goldenvale Town too. I¡¯m gonna go with you, Mommy.¡±


    He was swinging his tiny legs, so cute!


    I chuckled and said, ¡°This time, I have to handle an emergency, so Carl, you can''te along, okay?


    How about next time?¡±


    His protest was immediate. ¡°No, I wanna go with you now!¡±


    After I coaxed him into finishing his meal, Probert and Helga took him off to y.


    I quietly filled in my mom too, and though she was a bit shocked, she didn''t press for details, just


    reminded me over and over to stay safe.


    Exchanging nces with Hannah, we quickly grabbed our essentials and headed out the door.


    Instead of going straight to the airport, we made a detour to the Wood Manor.


    Ronan had no news yet but had sent out numerous people; he was confident we¡¯d hear something


    soon.


    I told him, ¡°In that case, I won¡¯t wait around. Hannah and I are heading to the airport now. I need to get


    back to Goldenvale Town!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Logan pondered for a moment before telling Ronan, ¡°Ronan, keep an eye on things


    here. I¡¯ll go back to Goldenvale Town with them. It might save some time.¡±


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Ronan thought it over and nodded, ¡°Alright! I¡¯ll handle things here; you go back with them.¡±


    He also called over Larkin and gave him a few quiet instructions, to which Larkin nodded incessantly.


    Logan gestured to me, and we were off, heading straight to the airport.


    Ronan quickly arranged a car. Knowing my temperament, he emphasized, ¡°Don¡¯t act rashly. Follow


    Logan¡¯s lead.¡±


    After giving Logan a few more instructions, we dashed to the airport without dy.


    Landing in Goldenvale Town, to my surprise, it was Dalton who came to pick us up.


    As if he¡¯d read my mind, as soon as we were in the car, we sped off, and he exined, ¡°I came to pick


    you up to save time and get the details firsthand.¡±


    While driving, Dalton asked, ¡°Did Catherine mention her location thest time you spoke?¡±


    I shook my head confidently. ¡°No, she just said she was tailing Jan and Renata.¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯ve already questioned Jan and Renata. They¡¯re sticking to their story that they haven''t seen


    Catherine. They im they were off to a hotel room, but we checked, and there¡¯s no sign of Jerome,¡±


    Dalton borated with detail.


    I mmed the seat in frustration, ¡°That jerk. They¡¯re definitely not telling the truth!¡±


    Iid out my thoughts about Jan and Renata¡¯s rtionship to Dalton and then cut to the chase, ¡°I


    suspect that Renata picked Jan up at the airport to see Jerome!¡±


    Logan, who had been silent, furrowed his brows in thought.


    After a while, he said to Dalton, ¡°We¡¯ve got to lure Jerome out. Get someone to stake out the hospital.¡±


    Dalton turned to Logan. ¡°You mean to create a scenario at the hospital to draw out Jerome?¡±


    ¡°No problem,¡± Dalton agreed right away.


    Hearing their n, I chimed in, ¡°Then I¡¯ll alert Dr. Dailey to stage a scene! We¡¯ll say Hazel¡¯s condition is


    critical!¡±


    Logan nodded. ¡°We need to act fast.¡±


    I grabbed my phone and briefed Dr. Dailey on the situation. Within twenty minutes, the inte was


    awash with news of Hazel¡¯s sudden turn for the worse,plete with convincing photos and captions


    about her being in critical condition.


    At the same time, another story hit the inte, exposing Jan and Renata¡¯s shameless affair. New


    ch§Ñpter av?ble on


    The article was detailed, describing how Jan had returned from visiting his father-inw in Silverdale


    City, and immediately hooked up with his mistress Renata at a hotel, as the scandalous news spread


    like wildfire.


    The scandal shook the foundations of Medsafe Liyah Inc., and its stock began to tumble.

 Chapter 404

    Chapter 404


    I didn''t go home. Instead, I stayed close to Logan along with Hannah.


    He had deployed a bunch of people in the pursuit to trace Catherine''s whereabouts. It was like


    searching for a needle in a haystack.


    But it was baffling how a living, breathing person could just vanish without a trace. We couldn¡¯t even


    find her car!


    I was beside myself with worry, but I dared not show it, afraid it might affect Logan''s mood.


    Logan seemed calm and collected on the surface, but he had be more reticent, the fury in his


    eyes growing by the hour.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, the scene seemed all too real. The Dawson family was there, all except


    Jerome.


    Jan was on the phone non-stop, and journalists were camped out everywhere.


    He was like a caged beast, trapped in the hospital room. His expression wasplicated; after all, the


    stocks of Medsafe Liyah Inc. were plummeting at an rming rate. This left Jan and Jesper on pins


    and needles. Though they were physically at the hospital, their hearts were far from Hazel''s bedside!


    And I was no different. If Catherine was safe, I should be ecstatic since everything was going ording


    to my n. With Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s stocks in freefall, I could soon wrap up my scheme, signaling that


    everything I lost would soon return to my grasp.


    But now, with Catherine missing and possibly in grave danger, even the sight of Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s


    tumbling stocks couldn''t bring me any joy.


    Nothing mattered more than Catherine''s life. If anything happened to her, I''d spend the rest of my life in


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    regret, with no room for happiness. Even if I gave up everything else, I needed Catherine to be alive.


    Three hourster, Hazel was wheeled out of the emergency room. The doctors said she was out of


    immediate danger, but her condition was far from promising. They advised us to prepare for the worst.


    I knew what they were doing ¨C baiting Jerome. It all hinged on his feelings for his mother. If his filial


    piety was genuine, he would show up.


    After Hazel was sent back to her room, Jan and Jesper only nced in before breaking through the


    throng of reporters and leaving the hospital, presumably heading back to Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    Online chatter suggested that the shareholders of Medsafe Liyah Inc. were furious as hell.


    By now, we had been back in Goldenvale Town for over four hours, meaning Catherine had been


    missing for almost twenty hours.


    We were all frantic, searching non-stop, yet so far, we hadn''t even found her car, which was deeply


    troubling.


    We followed Logan to the Department of Transportation, repeatedly reviewing the surveince footage


    of the route Renata took when she left with Jan.


    We saw Catherine''s car following theirs in the footage. But strangely, her car kept following them right


    up until Jan''s vehicle arrived at the hotel they reserved earlier. We saw Jan and Renata exit their


    car and enter the hotel, but Catherine''s car never appeared.


    Loganmanded with determination, "Rewind. Focus on Catherine''s car only!"


    He made a call, instructing someone to check if there was a back entrance to the hotel Jan had


    gone to.


    The answer came back quickly ¨C there was indeed a back door!


    I didn''t offer any words offort, fearing it would distract him.


    He ordered his men to check the hotel''s back entrance for any footage of Jan and Renata leaving.


    Dalton swiftly responded ¨C they had already checked, and there was no record of Jan and Renata


    leaving the hotel. They had left that morning at 7:40 am.  Dra§Þanovels.c§àm


    "You think they''re in disguise?" Though Dalton blurted out the question, he was clearly taken aback.

 Chapter 405

    Chapter 405


    I knew Logan was pulling out all stops.


    We kept digging through Catherine''s driving logs. Finally, a breakthrough. At a certain intersection, we


    spotted an anomaly in the travel path.


    At this intersection, Catherine''s car had taken a different turn than Jan''s.


    Logan mmed his hand on the desk, pointing at the monitor, "Right here! This is where things went


    south. Do you see it?"


    His eyes were bloodshot as he scanned the room before continuing, "Keep an eye on this intersection.


    Rewind the footage. Look for any car with the same te as Jan''s."


    After meticulous scrutiny, the staff indeed spotted it. Ahead of Catherine''s erroneous route was Jan''s


    car. With a snap, the staff froze the frame, and everyone exhaled a sigh of relief.


    I stared at the screen, puzzled.


    Hannah spoke up with certainty, "Jan''s car was swapped. A fake te lured Catherine away!"


    Suddenly, it clicked for me.


    "No wonder we couldn''t track them down. It''s not just cunning; they were prepared, indicating they''ve


    got enough people for a quick response," Hannah said, her gaze fixed on Logan.


    Logan instructed the staff, "Keep tracking the car with Catherine!"


    Catherine''s car followed the one with Jan''s tes, heading towards the outskirts.


    As dusk turned to night and streetlights flickered on, the pursuit grew tough, and soon the vehicle


    entered a blind spot and vanished.


    Having pinpointed the location, Logan rushed out of the Department of Transportation.


    Hannah and I hurried after him, my mind fixated on seeing Catherine first.


    The anxiety was suffocating, my heart lodged in my throat. I asked Logan, "Why not grab Jan and


    Renata? They must know where Catherine is."


    "It''s pointless. They''ll just deny knowing anything about Catherine''s whereabouts. We have no proof


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    the backup car is linked to them. We need evidence."


    Logan seemed frustrated, rubbing his face. "Besides, there''s a lot more to do. We need Jan on the


    outside, ying this game of cat and mouse with Jerome."


    Grinding my teeth, I said, "I''d rather lose everything than let him escape justice. We must find


    Catherine quickly!"


    Logan turned to me, understanding in his eyes, "Allie, I get where you''reing from, everyone does.


    Jan must''ve met with Jerome, but we can''t rush this. We need to let him strut around a bit longer.


    Without drawing out Jerome''s backers, he''ll just keep getting away with it."


    His words, tinged with resignation, hinted at something more.


    They weren''t just trying to retrieve what I wanted; they were leveraging the Medsafe Liyah Inc. situation


    to pressure Jerome and Jan., and their ultimate goal was to uncover the mastermind behind them.


    "But they''re our fastest shot at finding Catherine!" I said urgently.


    Her words left me speechless, my hands clenched in frustration as I fought to control my emotions.


    I didn''t even dare to imagine what was happening to Catherine right now.


    Seeing my distress, Hannah gently patted my shoulder. "Since we''ve got a lead, we''ll find Catherine


    soon. Don''t worry." Read at


    "I understand," I said solemnly. "We''ll be more careful in the future."


    But right now, the priority was to find her.

 Chapter 406

    Chapter 406


    We were tearing down the road when we reached a blind spot, a ce swarming with police already


    hard at work. They were meticulously scouring every nook and cranny, theorizing about the possible


    escape routes the car might have taken.


    Hannah and I hopped out of the car in a hurry, scanning the surroundings. This area was on the


    outskirts of the city but wasn''t secluded. It was a sprawling industrial park that looked like it was still


    under construction, not yet finished.


    A section of the road was under repair, which exined why the usual traffic had been disrupted,


    creating the blind spot.


    We found ourselves at a roundabout intersection. Discounting the direction where the roadwork was


    taking ce, there were three other routes to consider. The task of searching seemed daunting.


    As I confronted the situation, a wave of helplessness washed over me. It was almost as if we had no


    leads at all. There were three roads, but which one should we start our search with?


    Just as we felt at a loss, my phone chimed with a notification. I grabbed it to see a message from ra,


    someone I hadn''t heard from in ages. I exchanged a surprised nce with Hannah.


    She leaned over as I clicked on the message. It was brief, just three words - [Come here, quick!"]


    followed by a GPS location.


    My heart skipped a beat. What did this mean? The timing of her message was too coincidental, and


    most crucially, she knew about my rtionship with Catherine.


    "Logan!" I called out, showing him the location on my screen. He scrutinized it, zooming in on the area


    with a spark of recognition in his eyes.


    "Mmm, isn''t it in the heart of Eastgate District?" he mumbled.


    "Is it not nearby?" I pressed for confirmation.


    He seemed uncertain but called everyone over to take a look.


    Anky officer immediately spoke up, "That location ispletely the opposite direction from here. I


    was in charge of that area years ago. It''s in the Eastgate District, smack-dab in the city center. The


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ce is called Oldtown Avenue, known for its dense, old neighborhoods with a mix of good folks and


    bad seeds."


    Hannah eyed me skeptically. "Could this be a fake lead?"


    I squinted, my mind racing before shaking my head. "I don''t think so!"


    For some reason, I felt an inexplicable trust in ra. I believed she wouldn''t deceive me.


    Logan, confident in my judgment, gave the orders. "Let''s head there now! Dalton, leave some officers


    here to keep looking for clues. The rest of you, with us."


    "I''ll ask ra for more details," I said to Logan.


    He nodded, and I quickly sent a message, keeping it concise. "Need specifics!"


    My fingers tensed around the phone as I awaited ra''s response, which didn''te.


    Logan urged us to get moving. "Let''s talk on the road!"


    Once Dalton was in the car, he was on the phone, calling in resources.


    My grip on the phone tightened, and I silently prayed that ra''s tip was legit. If not, I wouldn''t let her


    off the hook. I pondered over how ra could possibly know Catherine''s whereabouts.


    Hannah seemed to catch on to my thoughts. "Allie, it looks like ra might really be in cahoots with


    Jerome!" Read at


    "Does that mean Jan knew where the Rhylee sisters were all along, since he managed to get Zora


    to the hospital?" Hannah analyzed.

 Chapter 407

    Chapter 407


    In the car, Logan handed me his phone. "You''ve got her number. Give her a ring with my mobile. If it''s


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    switched on, we can track her!"


    I grabbed Logan''s phone in a hurry and dialed ra¡¯s number. But the moment it rang, the call was


    abruptly disconnected from the other end.


    Logan was eyeing me the whole time. Seeing me put down the phone, he raised his eyebrows in a


    silent question. I shrugged and said, "No answer, but it''s on!"


    Logan immediately ordered someone to trace ra''s phone, but the word came back fast¡ªthe phone


    was now off.


    That couldn''t be right; it was just on.


    Stubbornly, I tried calling from my own cell, and this time it was definitely turned off.


    I felt a surge of frustration, almost ready to throw a fit, and I cursed, "What the hell is she ying at?"


    Meanwhile, a pit formed in my stomach, a sense of dread creeping in. I looked helplessly at Logan.


    His voice was sharp as he spoke, "Her phone being off could mean two things. One, she''s not in a


    position to talk. Two, she''s scared of being found out, afraid to answer. I''m betting it''s more likely the


    second."


    "Why do you say that?" I asked, puzzled.


    "Because she didn''t even pick up a call from an unknown number¡ªmine," Logan said with confidence.


    Though Logan''s reasoning was solid, my worries ran deeper, uncertain of ra''s motives.


    Consider this - If ra really knew where Jerome was hiding but just sat there, watching us duke it out


    like a predator in the shadows, isn''t that terrifying?


    She knew the truth about me and Jan long ago, and now, at this critical juncture for me, she''s


    lurking, her intentions unclear. How could I not feel panic?


    If ra spilled my ns to Jerome, my n might not have gone as smoothly as I hoped. But judging


    by Jan¡¯s helplessness over the plummeting stock prices of Medsafe Liyah Inc., he was clueless


    about my ploy. This suggested that ra hadn¡¯t interfered with my n.


    Hannah seemed to notice my anxiety and gave me a reassuring pat, saying, "Stop worrying about it.


    Let''s find Catherine first. The sooner we get her out, the better our odds!"


    Her words hit home. Indeed, if Catherine could return safe and sound, then let the chips fall where they


    may!


    The Dawsons had already caused enough trouble. If I didn''t bring them down, karma would.


    And Jerome? He''s a wanted man. Thew is vast and inescapable; he can''t outrun it. The faster he


    digs his own grave, the better. Crossing swords with thew never ends well.


    Worst case, I''ll start over. Isn''t that what life is about? Constantly challenging oneself is what keeps the


    passion alive!


    With these thoughts, I suddenly felt a surge of confidence, and my mood lightened considerably.


    The car raced through the streets, sirens ring, heading for the old Eastgate District.


    Night had fallen, and the district was lit up like a carnival, raucous and bustling. The poption was


    dense and the streets narrow, a maze of alleyways rather than wide roads.


    The buildings were packed tightly together, leaving little space in between. It was abyrinth of


    structures and passages.


    I''d lived in Goldenvale Town for years but rarely ventured into this part of the Eastgate District.


    Standing there once again, I felt overwhelmed by the bustling crowds. How on earth were we supposed


    to find one hidden person in thismotion? Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    I looked helplessly at Logan, who also seemed taken aback by the scene before us.


    Upon our arrival, several sharp-looking officers approached Dalton and briefed him on the situation.


    Listening in, the anxiety and urgency were palpable.

 Chapter 408

    Chapter 408


    I overheard one of the police grumble, "This neighborhood''s a real melting pot, tough to get a handle


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    on. A nket search is not realistic, especially without a specific target or location..." He nced at


    Dalton and shook his head, deciding not to finish his thought.


    Dalton surveyed the scene, his expression gloomy.


    Anyone would get a headache here. The area was a sprawl of apartment blocks, their windows lit up


    like a Christmas disy ¨C pretty, sure, but searching? Forget about it. We wouldn''t cover a handful of


    buildings by sunrise.


    I was certain that after we searched every nook and cranny, Catherine would be dead as a doornail.


    I turned to Logan, who had be eerily calm upon arriving.


    I couldn''t stand it and shot off a text to ra- [Location!] She''d see it the moment she powered up her


    phone.


    But there was no reply, and my heart kept pounding, my mind racing with increasingly terrifying


    scenarios.


    If ra had been ying me, then we were just burning through Catherine''s lifeline.


    I clenched my phone, pacing frantically. And I even wanted to bombard ra with calls until she


    answered, but Logan stopped me. "Don''t call her anymore. It could cause unnecessary trouble. If ra


    tipped us off, those calls might blow her cove. It might make things even more dangerous."


    "What do we do then?" I asked, myposure cracking as I imagined the worst unfolding.


    Dalton finished conferring with some inclothes officers, who then scattered into the crowd,


    disappearing as if they''d never been there.


    Dalton came over and reported, "Just hang tight. My guys have their own sources. I''ve sent them the


    location. They''ll sniff around, see what''s fishy. We should get some intel soon."


    I looked at Dalton, doubt seeping into my voice. "I''m not even sure if the tip is legit. I''ve sent her two


    messages, but no reply. That''s what I''m worried about."


    Logan nced at me and offered a fewforting words, "Just wait a bit longer. If theye back with


    nothing, we''ll have to go all in and flush them out."


    "How?" I perked up, eager for action.


    "We''ll cross that bridge when wee to it," Logan deflected.


    Waiting for news was like a year in purgatory. I whispered to Hannah, "What did Logan mean by ''flush


    them out''?"


    She nced at me and said, "Like agitating a ho''s nest. Disturb their hiding spot enough, and


    whatever or whoever is hidden will inevitably surface."


    "So why wait?" I pressed, anxious.


    "It''s ast resort," Hannah exined. "If we scare them, they might do something drastic, even


    murder."


    I shut up, realizing I didn''t fully understand the criminal psyche. Her words left me feeling powerless


    with nothing to do but wait.


    The officers returned one by one, their faces telling me all I needed to know ¨C no worthy leads.


    Then Dalton got a call, and his already grim expression darkened further.


    "That exins why we couldn''t find it," Logan sighed heavily.


    Logan looked at the jigsaw puzzle of buildings and made a decisive call. "No more waiting. Dalton,


    send out the word. We''re going to raid this ce. Get every squad car here. let''s lock it down."


    belongs to Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    He turned to Dalton, "You get my drift?"


    Dalton nodded but couldn''t help asking, "Are you sure...?"


    "I''m sure!" Logan said with such conviction that I felt a surge of confidence.

 Chapter 409

    Chapter 409


    My shout drew the eyes of everyone in the room; they all turned to look at me.


    But it was Logan who immediately sidled up to me, and with a surge of excitement I blurted out,


    "ra!"


    After finishing my words, I eagerly tapped open the chat on my phone, and to my delight, I discovered


    yet another GPS location.


    Logan snatched the phone from my hand abruptly. Dalton leaned in too, and they both scrutinized the


    map, zooming in and out, muttering about the ce in question.


    After a thorough look, Dalton called over anky officer, who peered at the screen and then pointed in a


    certain direction. "Over there, Lavender Lane, number 35 Kingsley Towers. It''s the one up on the slope.


    Hurry... follow me!"


    At his shout, everyone sprang into action, bolting out the door.


    I grabbed Hannah''s arm and we started running to keep up. But I was too slow, way behind the pack as


    they vanished from sight. I was left frantic with worry.


    The ce looked so close, yet after dashing past two alleys with my heart pounding, I found myself


    gasping for breath, doubled over with my hand pressed to my chest.


    Larkin appeared out of nowhere in front of me and Hannah, telling her, ¡°Stay here, take care of her!¡±


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Then he was gone, and Hannah looked at me, concern etched on her face. "Allie, are you okay?"


    I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself, and grabbed her hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go... I¡¯m fine!¡±


    "We should just wait here. You''re run down. Your wellbeing is the priority!" Hannah insisted, fully aware


    of my frail state.


    Indeed, I had hit my limit today, never before had I been this non-stop on my feet. Still panting, I told


    Hannah, ¡°Let¡¯s go. I want to see her as soon as possible!¡±


    With a resigned sigh, Hannah squatted down in front of me and said, "Allie, hop on!"


    I froze, shocked, taking a couple of steps back.


    "Come on, if you want to get there fast, get on, now!" she urged.


    "No... don''t, I can make it. Let¡¯s go!" I protested, trying to walk away.


    But Hannah yanked my arm, and with a lift and a hoist, I was on her back before I could struggle. With


    another bounce, I was suddenly much higher off the ground, and in the next second, her hands were


    gripping my legs as she took off running, swift and sure-footed.


    All day, I had been holding back my emotions, but now, I couldn''t keep them in any longer, and tears


    started streaming down my face.


    What had I done to deserve such kindness from Hannah? I despised myself for being so weak and


    helpless. I remembered how, when Addrion and I first started our business, I could run around for days


    on end without feeling tired, but now...


    Hannah, seemingly picking up on my fluctuating mood, consoled me in an upbeat tone, "Allie, you''re as


    light as a feather. You seriously need to improve your diet!" With that, she picked up the pace even


    more, her sense of direction impable, quickly leading us to the pinpointed location.


    I tapped Hannah''s shoulder, signaling her to let me down. Without even a chance to thank her, I


    scanned the surroundings.


    We were indeed on a gentle slope, facing a row of dpidated buildings.


    Logan and the others were nowhere in sight; they must have gone inside already. But undercover


    police were scattered around all the corners.


    I didn''t know what awaited inside, but from the outside, each window glowed with light, indicating


    upancy. I tugged at Hannah, urging her to go inside with me.


    Inside was even darker and damper, filthy everywhere, with an assortment of strange odors. Content of


    Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    After multiple failed talks, the project was put on hold, leaving the area as a persistent headache for the


    government and a source of misery for the public.


    Due to its state of disrepair, all sorts of shady characters had taken up residence, making it a


    notoriously troubled spot in Goldenvale Town.

 Chapter 410

    Chapter 410


    I was pumped, like I''d just downed a double shot of espresso, hanging on every word of the olddy''s


    story.


    "Did you see them carry the person inside?" Logan pressed.


    "Yeah, some burly dude hoisted her in. The gal seemed out of it... knocked out, with long hair trailing


    and swaying below her..." The olddy shivered dramatically as she spoke. "Oh, Lord! It was downright


    chilling, like something out of a ghost story! But thank goodness you folks are here! You are the cops,


    right?"


    "Yes!"


    "Well, then you better get in there quick! By the looks of it, that poor girl is either hurt or... something


    dire!" The olddy was a chatterbox, yammering on without pause.


    Logan turned to an officer and said, "Take care of her!"


    The officers immediately took the olddy by the arm and said, "For your safety, ma''am, pleasee


    downstairs with me!"


    The olddy, sensing danger, obediently started down the stairs, still muttering and casting curious,


    frightened nces upwards.


    Logan looked to Dalton for his opinion and suggested, "We should strike both apartments


    simultaneously. There''s no time to dilly-dally. Moreover, taking them down one after another might tip


    them off."


    Dalton nodded in agreement. "Sounds good! But there''s one problem."


    "Shoot," Logan said, focusing on Dalton.


    "This neighborhood''s a tough nut to crack. That''s why you see, every door here is like Fort Knox. We


    need a way to get them to let us in without causing a ruckus," Dalton exined.


    Logan peered at the doors, noting the protective iron bars on each.


    "These security bars are a real pain," Dalton said with a sigh.


    Logan and Dalton shared a nce and hatched a n, "Let''s im we''re here for an electrical


    inspection. We just knock and step right in!"


    I felt a twist in my gut. Logan''s n seemed foolproof, a trick he''d used to perfection in the past. He


    probably knew the ins and outs of electrical issues like the back of his hand.


    "What if they don''t open up?" Dalton asked, raising a concern.


    Logan thought for a second before replying, "Grab a couple of clipboards, pretend to need signatures,


    and verify some details!"


    Dalton gestured to a fellow officer, who sprinted off and quickly returned with two worn clipboards. I


    was impressed by their efficiency.


    After a brief huddle, Dalton signaled the undercover officers, who each drew their weapons, ready for


    action.


    That''s when Logan noticed me. His tone was stern. "What are you doing up here? Get down!"


    "I want to see her the moment we find her!" I protested stubbornly.


    "Don''t be ridiculous. Do you have any idea what could happen? Get downstairs!" His face darkened


    when I hesitated. "Now!"


    Hannah, without a word, grabbed my arm and started pulling me away. Seeing Logan''s serious


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    expression, I didn''t dare argue and followed Hannah back downstairs.


    I grumbled to myself. With all these people around, what could possibly happen?


    But then I remembered Ronan''s cautionary words before I left and swallowed my protest. I understood


    Logan''s urgency; he''d been searching for Catherine for so long.


    Luckily, it was an external corridor. From below, we could see the police silently approaching the two


    doors the olddy had pointed out.


    Hannah and I gazed upward, barely daring to breathe as we watched the two doors intently.


    Larkin was leading the charge, gun in hand, pressed against the wall in a pose straight out of a cop


    show.


    From below, we couldn''t hear the exchanges, but the door the skinny officer knocked on opened


    quickly, revealing a woman. Whatever he said to her, the gate swung open, and he stepped inside,


    covering the woman''s mouth and pushing her back as two other officers followed swiftly. New chapter


    av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    On Logan''s side, however, there was no answer, despite repeated knocking.


    I swallowed nervously, trying to guess what was happening above.


    No answer? What now? I watched as he stepped back and couldn''t make out the situation clearly.

 Chapter 411

    Chapter 411


    With a deafening boom that shattered the silence of the night, a ball of me burst forth, illuminating


    the entire apartment block as if it were broad daylight, only to disappear as quickly as it had appeared.


    Instinctively, I ducked and covered my head, and even though I was standing at a distance, debris


    rained down around me.


    Hannah yanked me to the side, shielding me with her body, as the sound of heavy objects crashing to


    the ground echoed in my ears,nding in the street below us.


    When I finally managed to lift my head again, still shaken, I saw smoke rising from the epicenter of the


    explosion. It was clear¡ªthe door had blown up!


    At that moment, Hannah turned to me and shouted, "Allie, you stay right here. Don''t move!" With that,


    she dashed into the fray.


    Ignoring the pounding of my heart that felt like it would burst out of my chest, I followed her, running


    headlong into danger. Gasping for air, I trailed behind Hannah up four flights of stairs until the


    devastation of the fourth floor came into full view. The door had been sted into a gaping ck hole,


    its metal bars hurled down to the ground below amid a sea of shattered ss.


    The st had fractured windows on the third, fourth, and fifth floors to varying degrees.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    The aftermath of the st sent the residents of the building into a frenzy, scrambling out into the


    hallways to unravel the chaos. It was a spectacle - children crying, parents shouting¡ªquite the


    Everyone was at a loss, exchanging bewildered nces, unsure of what had caused the st.


    Thenky figure burst from the neighboring apartment, sprinting toward the remains of the door.


    I quickened my pace to keep up with Hannah, who was anxiously calling out, "Larkin! Larkin!"


    She was running so fast I could barely keep up. I paused at the stairwell to catch my breath and looked


    toward the demolished entrance.


    The spot was still smoking, the door and adjacent windowpletely blown out.


    The more I looked, the more terrifying it became. If the officer who had been checking the lock had


    reacted any slower, he might have been blown away with the door.


    The officers nearby would have been caught in the disaster too.


    The undercover officers on the ground shook their heads to dislodge the ss fragments, struggling to


    their feet while cupping their ears, clearly pained by the st''s pressure wave.


    I scanned the area and didn''t see Logan or Larkin, so I hurried forward, calling out anxiously, "Larkin...


    Logan!" As I passed others, I asked, "Is anyone hurt?"


    Everyone quickly gathered near the sted door to check.


    Just then, I saw Logan, carrying someone in his arms, followed by Larkin and Dalton.


    I was struck dumb with shock. On closer inspection, I realized Logan was holding Catherine in his


    arms.


    "Catherine..." My voice broke with emotion as I called out to her and lunged forward, but she was


    unresponsive. My heart plummeted, and I froze in ce, staring at the figure in Logan''s arms.


    A crowd had gathered around us.


    Logan shouted, "Make way, we need to get her to the hospital... now! Clear a path!"


    I quickly stepped aside to let them through, as Logan rushed past with Catherine in his arms.


    "Right... the hospital! Call an ambnce!"


    Dalton responded, "I''ve already called one. Get her on the stretcher and follow them!"


    Several officers cleared a path for Logan. I followed closely behind Logan, my mind in turmoil. Then I


    heard Hannah''s cry, "Larkin, are you hurt?"


    He was escorted by officers, and I figured we were heading toward where we had first arrived¡ªthe


    only ce a vehicle could get close. New ch§Ñpter av?ble on Dr§Ñman§àvels.c§à§Þ


    I chased after them down the slope, panting heavily, until I had to stop, unable to run any further.


    Bent over, clutching my chest, I gasped for air. Just as I was about to stand and continue, someone


    called out to me, "Aaliyah!"


    Instinctively, I responded, "Yes!"


    As the voice fell, a shadow lunged at me. In the dim light, I caught the glint of metal¡ªthe person


    wielded a knife...

 Chapter 412

    Chapter 412


    The situation escted so quickly that I was rooted to the spot in sheer terror, unable to even dodge. I


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    watched helplessly as the knife plunged toward my heart, and just before it could strike...


    In the blink of an eye, a shadow shed like lightning toward the assant, moving too fast for me to


    see clearly what was happening. A gust of wind brushed past me followed by a scream, the thud of the


    knife hitting the ground, and then I was swept into someone''s arms.


    I turned my head, heart hammering, to see Hannah''s face. She shielded me with her body, and I heard


    Larkin shout, "Get her out of here!"


    "Be careful!" Hannah yelled back before pulling me along and running out the door.


    Looking back, I saw several attackers swarming Larkin!


    "Come on!" Hannah''s voice was urgent as she yanked me in front of her and, with swift movement,


    hoisted me onto her back and ran forward.


    When we reached the spot where we''d arrived earlier, an ambnce was already there. I saw Logan


    handing Catherine over to the paramedics while curious onlookers gathered, whispering about what


    had happened.


    Without a word, Logan jumped into the ambnce, and Hannah shoved me in after him, shouting, "Go


    on, we''ll be right behind you!" Then she whirled around and dashed back the way we hade. I knew


    she was going back for Larkin.


    Logan nced at Hannah''s back and asked, "What happened?"


    Between gasps for breath, I managed to say, "Someone... attacked me, and Larkin''s fighting them off!"


    Logan''s eyes lowered with concern but he kept silent.


    The ambnce doors mmed shut and the siren began to wail as the crowd parted. We sped off


    towards the hospital.


    My eyes were fixed on Catherine who was lying pale and lifeless on the stretcher like a discarded doll,


    a blood bag hanging above her.


    Tears blurred my vision as I asked Logan, voice tinged with panic, "How is she? Why does she need a


    transfusion? She''s going to be okay, right?" I hadn''t noticed her bleeding when Logan had carried her


    out.


    Logan looked grim. "It''s not good. She''s got a head injury, lost a lot of blood, and she''s been


    unconscious for too long..."


    I was too frightened to speak or ask more, but my gaze couldn''t move away from her pale face, her


    eyshes drooping silently, seeming to be deeply asleep, devoid of the past sassy and lively


    appearance. Tears clouded my vision. I sniffled, hastily cleaning my tears while keeping my gaze


    locked on her, my heart throbbing with worry. I could only resent how frustratingly slow the car seemed


    to be moving.


    Logan also looked heavy-hearted, his jaw clenched, revealing that he, too, was restraining himself. He


    was firmly holding Catherine''s hand with hisrge hand, clearly showing reluctance.


    The ambnce rushed into the hospital doors, and medical staff were ready, rushing Catherine to the


    emergency room.


    Logan followed closely. I could barely keep up, but I tried to match his pace as best I could.


    Suddenly, my arm was held by someone. When I nced sideways, it was Hannah.


    Tears welled up as I choked out, "Is Larkin okay?"


    She nodded her head reassuringly. "He''s fine, don''t worry. The police have caught the attackers. He''s


    dealing with the police now."


    I breathed a sigh of relief, and Hannah asked about Catherine. I shook my head, my eyes welled up


    again.


    She patted my shoulder, saying nothing more.


    We joined him, and I tried to offer somefort, "She''ll be okay. She has to be."


    But deep down, I was trying to convince myself too.


    Soon, Larkin, Dalton, and several officers arrived.


    Logan turned to Dalton, "Did you get them? Who are they?"


    Dalton nced at me before replying, "Still waiting to interrogate them, but they im Aaliyah owes


    them money." Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    Everyone put on a helpless smile.


    Dalton called out, "Leave two here. The reste with me!"

 Chapter 413

    Chapter 413


    I watched them hustle away in a flurry, sure as anything that something big had gone down; otherwise,


    Logan wouldn''t have bolted too. I quickly turned to Hannah and blurted, "Hannah, go check it out,


    okay?"


    Hannah nced around, noted the presence of the police, and figured I''d be safe enough. She nodded


    and immediately hurried to follow.


    I was left scratching my head. What exactly had happened that made both Logan and Dalton rush


    over?


    It looked like they were both heading the same way. Could it be that Jerome had shown up again?


    My hunch was confirmed soon enough when Logan and Hannah came rushing back.


    I didn''t even have to ask. Logan read the question in my eyes and whispered, "Jerome was there, but


    the slippery devil got away!"


    I was taken aback and pressed on, "What happened? How did he escape?"


    "He was very cunning, even disguised himself. Plus, he knows the hospitalyout like the back of his


    hand," Logan recounted with detail, "Our guys didn''t corner him. Looks like he was prepared; jumped


    right out of a third-floor window onto some cushioning he had set up!"


    I stared at Logan, dumbfounded, imagining the scene, and let out a sigh, "I gotta hand it to him; the


    guy''s got a crew. The thugs who ambushed me must be Jerome''s guys; they shouted my name."


    I thought back to the scuffle just now - how Larkin had swooped in to save me. I''d nced back to see


    at least a half-dozen of Jerome''s goons held back by Larkin.


    Logan was lost in thought for a long while before he finally said, "Seems like ra tipping you off


    wasn''t just to help you. It was a decoy, meant to draw the police to the Eastgate District while Jerome


    slipped away to check on Hazel."


    Hearing Logan put it that way, I couldn''t help but agree with him.


    "And ra going off the grid wasn''t ''cause she was scared to pick up the phone. It was a stalling tactic.


    They never intended for Catherine to make it. They wanted to use her for a big distraction, to draw the


    Inte''s eyes."


    "You''re saying, to take the heat off Medsafe Liyah Inc.?" I pieced together Logan''s line of thought


    instantly.


    "Exactly! That''s why they arranged the explosion in the room where Catherine was, both to destroy


    Catherine and to blow up the police to make a big fuss, relieving the pressure on Medsafe Liyah Inc.,"


    Logan said with certainty.


    "A triple y! What was Catherine''s condition when you found her?" I finally got a chance to ask Logan


    about it.


    "When I got there, the room was a total mess from the st. But we found Catherine under the bed,


    knocked out cold!" Logan recalled vividly.


    "Under the bed?" I was puzzled. How did she end up there?


    "I''m guessing she woke up at some point," Logan said softly, pain evident in his eyes.


    "You mean she hid herself?" I prodded with skepticism.


    "It''s entirely possible!"


    I muttered under my breath, "Hopefully, she wakes up soon. Then we''ll know exactly what happened."


    My concern was all for Catherine, who was still out of it, so I didn''t press any further.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    An hourter, Catherine was wheeled out of surgery.


    The doctor said, "It was excessive bleeding due to a head injury, fortunately not affecting vital areas.


    And the position of her body must have somehow applied pressure to the wound, helping it to close


    quicker than expected, which was a stroke of luck."


    The doctor kept stressing it was a miracle, "Otherwise, with that much blood loss, she wouldn''t have


    stood a chance!"


    I had to ask, "When will she wake up? Could there be anysting damage?" After all, it was a head


    injury.


    Once Catherine was settled in her room, I finally called Dad to let him know I was okay.


    After some thought, I warned him not to tell Kenny ¨C I''d stay by her side until she pulled through.


    Dad agreed readily but reminded me to be careful and thorough in my care.


    Three days passed with Catherine still out, and during that time, Logan barely left her side, his


    vignce unyielding. Re§Ñd at


    Truth be told, we were all carrying a heavy load on our shoulders, dreading what might happen when


    she finally came to.


    We hadn''t even had breakfast when Logan softly called out, "Catherine, are you awake? Catherine..."

 Chapter 414

    Chapter 414


    Startled, I dropped the towel from my hands and dashed to the bedside, eager to see for myself. There


    Catherine was, eyes still tightly shut. I asked Logan, "What''s going on?"


    "Her hand moved!" he insisted, eyes glued to Catherine as he called out, "Hey... wake up, you''ve slept


    enough. Stop faking, will ya? Time for dinner!"


    Sure enough, her eyshes quivered, resembling a sleepy child disturbed from slumber, appearing


    quite displeased, even furrowing her brows slightly.


    I couldn''t help but feel a surge of joy, calling out to her eagerly, "Catherine,e on, wake up!"


    Logan gently shook her hand and said in a yful tone, "Hey... Sunrise, sunshine! Time to get up,


    Catherine. Mr. Wilburn is asking about you. The Oldtown Avenue project needs your attention, or it''s


    gonna fall through!"


    At that, Catherine''s head moved ever so slightly, as if she was struggling to open her eyes.


    "You''re always sleeping, aren''t you hungry?" Logan teased, slipping back into his usual banter.


    Finally, Catherine''sshes began to part, revealing eyes unfocused and bleary.


    Just then, Hannah came in with a tray of food. Logan quickly sent her to get the doctor, and she hurried


    out, leaving the tray behind.


    "Catherine, Catherine!" I called anxiously, afraid her eyes would close again. Her gaze shifted towards


    me.


    Logan let out a chuckle. "Has this turned into a staring contest? Catherine, you really know how to


    y!" He was trying to be funny, but concern was evident in his bloodshot eyes.


    Iughed until tears came.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Catherine closed her eyes and reopened them, focusing on me this time, then turned her head slightly


    to look at Logan.


    Just staring, I felt a twinge of nervousness. Why wasn''t she speaking? Her expression was neutral, just


    blinking at Logan as if she didn''t recognize him.


    The doctor and nurses entered briskly, and we stepped aside to let them do their work. Catherine


    responded slowly to their questions, but her thoughts seemed clear and her limbs coordinated.


    Standing up, the doctor turned to us with a pleased smile. "She''s doing very well. She might feel dizzy,


    sleepy, and experience nausea or vomiting these days. She''ll need to continue with oxygen therapy


    and spend time in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber each day. From now on, she just needs good rest


    and nutrition. The wound is healing fine, and she''ll be ready to be discharged once all symptoms are


    gone."


    After the doctor left, Logan leaned in close to Catherine. "You didn''t lose any brain cells, did you?"


    To our surprise, Catherine retorted, "You''re loud enough to wake the dead! Can''t you let someone


    sleep?"


    At her words, we all rxed. She was okay after all!


    We allughed, but Catherine grumbled, "What''s so funny? Aren''t we supposed to eat? I''m starving!"


    I quickly agreed, "Right away, let''s eat!"


    She rolled her eyes and slowly raised her hand to touch her head.


    Logan teased her, "Your head''s still there, no need to check!"


    She nced at Logan. "As if you wouldn''t be d if it wasn''t."


    Logan feigned despair. "Of course not! First thing I checked when I found you was your head, I swear!"


    "I''m checking if my hair''s still there. I don''t want to end up bald," Catherine defended.


    Logan snorted, "You''re worried about your hair after a near-death experience? Bald or not, you''d still be


    a beauty!"


    Catherine shot back, "Oh, really? And how exactly am I supposed to find a decent boyfriend if I were


    bald?"


    I chuckled to myself, knowing full well she was teasing Logan.


    Logan''s face fell as he retorted, "Well, I''m relieved to hear that. You''re not silly, and you''ll find


    someone!"


    Iughed and brought the tray over, asking, "Ready to eat now?"  Dra§Þanovels.c§àm


    "Oh... damn, maybe I did lose some brain cells!" she cursed yfully, her feisty spirit undimmed.


    Now I was truly reassured; her sharp tongue meant she was alright.

 Chapter 415

    Chapter 415


    I rushed to consult the doctor, and after he hurried over and examined the situation carefully, he


    assured us that it was a normal reaction that would subside in a few days. He suggested that we try


    adjusting the height gradually rather than making a sudden change.


    The wholemotion had left Catherine without an appetite. Reluctantly, I spoon-fed her some


    chicken broth. No sooner had she finished than she fell back asleep before I could even ask what had


    happened.


    The doctor said this was her first real sleep since the incident. Seeing her resting peacefully, I finally


    reached out to Geneva and Janice.


    While Janice was still in recovery following her childbirth, she had already been discharged from the


    hospital with Jta and was recuperating at home.


    Upon hearing about Catherine''s mishap, she had her family''s driver bring her to the hospital to check


    on Catherine. She looked radiant and well-rested, a testament to the restorative power of home care.


    As soon as she walked in, she asked me, "Allie, what happened? What''s all thismotion about?


    How did Catherine get hurt?"


    Geneva also looked to me for answers, "Exactly, but online reports have been tightly controlled. They


    just reported that there was an explosion on Lavender Lane in Eastgate District without any details. But


    I heard this incident has made quite a ssh, and the government is nning a major crackdown on


    that area!"


    Relieved by Geneva''s news, I said, "That''s great to hear. Catherine''s injuries weren''t for nothing; her


    ordeal has contributed to some much-needed changes. That area has been a mess for too long!"


    "What exactly happened?" Geneva asked, looking at Catherine who was sleeping.


    I summarized the details for them and added, "She had a narrow escape, but the specifics are still


    unknown. Catherine hasn''t spoken yet."


    "It seems we can only get the full story once she''s fully awake," Geneva sighed. "The Dawson family is


    really on a path of no return!"


    "You''re right. It seems Jerome had indeed been hiding out on Lavender Lane," I shared with them the


    rescue details and how there was an attack amidst the chaos. They were visibly shaken by what


    happened.


    "Medsafe Liyah Inc. has been struggling these past few days," Genevamented.


    "I haven''t had the heart to follow the news! No idea what the situation is now!" Imented. "Now that


    she''s safe, I need to focus on Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s progress."


    "It''s nearing rock bottom! There was some bounce back a few days ago, but today it seems to have


    dropped again. Looks like Jan is pouring money into it, trying to lift it up," Geneva analyzed.


    Anxious, I muttered, "That scoundrel, always causing chaos and racking up debts!"


    Janice chimed in, "Even his buddy Irving has stopped ying along! I tell you, he''s not keeping up the


    act for much longer!"


    My mind raced, pondering if that meant abandoning the cancer drug project.


    When Catherine awoke the next morning, she looked noticeably better. As soon as her eyes opened,


    she started searching for something. Pretending not to know her mind, I asked, "What are you looking


    for?"


    She gave an awkward chuckle, "Just wondering if I could get up and move about a bit."


    "You better stay put," I quickly discouraged her, "But let me see if I can raise the bed a bit more and


    see if you still feel dizzy."


    "Okay," she agreed.


    Hannah promptly adjusted the bed, and this time Catherine felt much better, showing no significant


    difort.


    Then I informed her, "Logan went out; Dalton needed him."


    Catherine looked at Hannah incredulously, full of skepticism, "Was he worried?"


    Hannah continued, "Why are you looking at me? Don¡¯t believe it? DragonLord has been on edge since


    he got the news, hasn''t slept a wink until he knew you were safe. He was the first to dash into the


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    explosion site. Imagine if it hadn''t ended when he entered... Well, that would have been quite the


    scene! I suggest you be a little kinder, or you really won¡¯t be able to live with yourself!" New ch?pter


    av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "Really?" Catherine turned to me for confirmation.


    "Absolutely," I chipped in with a smile.


    I facepalmed and thought to myself, "These two are a perfect match for each other."

 Chapter 416

    Chapter 416


    Catherine''s eyes lit up like Christmas lights when she saw Logan walk in, her ears turning a shade of


    pink that would give Santa''s suitpetition. But her words came out twisted like tangled tree lights, "I


    was almost killed, okay? Pure luck that I didn''t end up dead!"


    Logan, hearing her words, sat down on the chair in front of the bed and leaned back, saying fiercely,


    "Who can you me on? You''re in this mess because you went looking for trouble, aren¡¯t you? Other


    than not ending up dead, what exactly did your little sleuthing adventure aplish? Spill it!"


    His words were a clear jab at her.


    Catherine''s face froze, herplexion turning gloomy.


    That''s the thing about people, if it had been just the two of them, Catherine would''ve taken it on the


    chin. But with me and Hannah in the room, her pride wouldn''t allow it. It was like Logan had pped


    her in the face in front of us.


    I saw it all and thought, ''Man, Logan''s really stirring the pot.'' He knew damn well Catherine didn''t want


    to drudge up the mess, but here he was, poking the bear. Was he looking for a fight?


    Sure, he might''ve wanted to remind her to be more careful, but timing is everything. She had just


    woken up, and he started with the lecture. No way she''d be jolly about that.


    So, I stepped in to smooth things over. "Hold up, Logan. Catherine''s little escapade got the council''s


    attention. Lavender Lane is on the list for a major clean-up. If that''s not a win, I don''t know what is."


    "That is something to cheer about," Logan conceded, nodding genuinely for a moment before adding,


    "But don''t you think that''s too big a price to pay?"


    I eyed him to tell him to stop talking, but he pretended not to notice.


    "I don''t know about any Lavender Lane, but if you''re willing to risk your neck to get noticed, you''re


    practically a saint. They should crown you the Goldenvale Town Good Samaritan!" Logan''s sarcasm


    cut deep.


    Catherine, unfazed, shot back, "You can save your concern, DragonLord. My life''s my own to gamble


    with. If my number''s up, I''ll take my final bow gracefully. If not, I''ll face it head-on. No need for you to


    fret."


    Logan got the hint; she was peeved. He paused, then switched gears with a smile. "Alright, enough of


    that. Tell us what went down. How''d you get caught?"


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    That was the million-dor question on my mind, too. I eagerly settled in closer to Catherine. "Yeah,


    what happened? They switched cars and you didn''t notice, right? What went down at the roundabout?"


    Catherine looked at me with renewed energy, her pride forgotten. "Switched cars? I had no clue..." She


    seemed genuinely surprised, only now learning that she had been following a decoy.


    "When did they switch cars?" she asked Logan, thinking that this had to be a clue that Logan had


    found.


    "I was tailing that car like a hawk. How could they have switched without me noticing?" she muttered,


    piecing it together.


    "...Mulberry Mews..." Catherine pondered.


    She continued, "I was sure I was following Jan, but it was a bust. I leaned in to double-check the


    license te when I got out of the car, and wham! Something hit me from behind, and then everything


    went ck." Co?tent of Dr?manov§Öls


    I listened, holding my breath, staring at Catherine in shock and awe.


    After a moment of silence, I peeked over at Logan. His face was as serious as a judge, wordless for


    what felt like an eternity.

 Chapter 417

    Chapter 417


    Honestly, her ordeal was way worse than what I went through. It scared the daylights out of me just


    hearing about it.


    "What did they say?" Hannah pressed, leaning forward, her blue eyes wide with curiosity.


    "They said they couldn''t stick around, that the police would arrive soon; the news was out. And their


    boss'' n was to make a big move! Another guy asked, ''How?''" Catherine recounted vividly.


    Logan watched Catherine recount every detail, his expression morphing into a grimace with each word.


    I knew Logan was hurting more than he let on.


    Catherine went on, "One of the guys went, ''Boss says to make it a big deal, the bigger the better. Don''t


    worry about the fallout.'' Then they put their heads together and decided to kill a couple of officers¡ªsaid


    that would really shake things up. After they had it all nned out, one of them got their hands on some


    dynamite and rigged it to the door. They said as soon as anyone opened the door¡ªboom!"


    "How did they get out then?" Hannah asked, skepticismcing her voice.


    "That dump had a bathroom with a window. After setting up the dynamite, they squeezed out through


    that," Logan chimed in, taking over for Catherine. "We checked it out when we got there, there was a


    rope still hanging from the window."


    "So, you hid under the bed?" I asked Catherine, my heart aching as I reached out and took her hand.


    "They tied me up, gagged me, and took off. I couldn''t even get off the bed if I tried." Catherine''s voice


    wavered, and her eyes welled up. Tough as she acted, she was still delicate at heart.


    I patted her hand gently, and she sniffled before continuing, "I was pretty much in despair, but I thought,


    ''I can''t just give up. I can''t die like this.''"


    She stole a nce at Logan, who was hanging on her every word, and quickly looked away, a shy


    smile touching her lips.


    "I knew staying in bed was a death sentence. So, I mustered all my strength, shut my eyes, and rolled


    off. I hit the ground so hard that I cked out."


    Catherine''s confession hit me hard. Her head wound had been severe.


    She paused, closing her eyes for a long moment before opening them again. "When I woke up, it was


    dark again. I dragged myself under the bed, and soon I heard voices outside. I tried to shout, but


    couldn''t make a sound. My head was spinning, and I was too weak to move. I banged the floor with my


    tied-up feet, trying to warn them not toe closer. Then I thought, ''No, if they hear me, they''ll open


    the door.'' So I stopped, hoping they''d just leave. I was wrong. I heard someone yell, ''Spread out,


    there¡¯s a bomb, run!'' Then the explosion... and that''s thest thing I remember."


    "Man, that was close!" I eximed. "Next time, don''t do anything reckless. That''s what Logan''s trying to


    say!"


    Catherine looked at me and asked, "How did you guys know something happened to me?"


    "It was all Aaliyah," Hannah interjected. "She was the first to sense something was off. Called your cell,


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    got no answer, and knew something was up. She went to Logan, and they decided to bolt back to


    Goldenvale Town to find you."


    "My phone''s probably still in the car," Catherine mused.


    "In the car?" Hannah snorted. "Guess where your car is now?"


    Catherine turned to Hannah, "Where''s my car?"


    "Your car''s totaled," Logan said bluntly.


    "Totaled?" Catherine''s eyes went wide. "What do you mean... totaled?"


    "Yes! Completely totaled, beyond repair," Logan confirmed, delivering the blow. "It''s turned into a big


    toy, a model!" New ch§Ñpter av?ble on


    Catherine looked at me weakly, "Allie, is that true?"

 Chapter 418

    Chapter 418


    I nodded. "Yep, they dumped your car into the reservoir! The police and Logan scoured every road but


    came up empty-handed. It was some guy poaching fish who found it!"


    Catherine''s hope deted like a balloon. She slumped against the pillows, letting out a mournful wail,


    "My new car..."


    I chuckled, at a loss for words. "Hey, the important thing is you''re alive. Once you''re back on your feet,


    I''ll get you a new one, okay?"


    She bolted upright, "Oh, for the love of¡ª"


    Before she could finish, she clutched her head, and Logan gently eased her back onto the pillows,


    exasperated, "Can you not be so dramatic? It''s just a car."


    "DragonLord, lucky for me you''re not the fussy type. If you were the one fussing about making it up to


    me, I bet I''d be on my feet in no time!" She shot back at Logan, "Ever heard of a BFF? Better than any


    guy!"


    Logan was at a loss for words, looking at us both with a mix of frustration and defeat.


    I tried to lighten the mood. "Don''tpare me to guys. There''s plenty they can do that I can''t!"


    But as soon as I said it, I felt the awkwardness of my own words and almost bit my own tongue.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Catherine turned to me, "So, where the heck did Jan and Renata vanish to?"


    "The hotel!" Logan chimed in, "All your tailing couldn''t stop them from checking in!"


    "That jerk!" Catherine fumed.


    I rushed to exin, "I bet Jan was meeting Jerome. The hotel was just a cover."


    Then, turning to Logan, I asked, "Did you find any clue that Jan left the hotel?"


    "We got him! He slipped out the back dressed as a chef, carrying two bags," Logan nodded, providing


    the most satisfying confirmation.


    "He had two bags to look like he was tossing out kitchen trash, which chefs often do. The back door is


    there to make it easy for the kitchen staff to move supplies. It''s an employee-only exit."


    "Why were the bags different?" I pressed.


    "That''s the catch! The hotel buys all its trash bags from the same ce, but one of Jan''s wasn''t a


    hotel bag. It was from his room, holding his jacket with a logo on it. You''d miss it if you weren''t looking


    closely."


    "Jan''s digging his own grave. Jerome is wanted, and he''ll be next!" Catherine hissed through


    clenched teeth, then turned to me, "Allie, get a move on! Divorce that jerk already!"


    "Exactly, Allie. Everything''s set to take him down. Why keep him around?" Hannah added.


    I nodded, muttering, "Yeah, looks like it''s time to cut ties."


    I looked at Catherine and asked, "Could you get in touch with Elbert, thewyer, for me?"


    "It was confirmed."


    "When did Jan sneak back into the hotel?" I inquired, "I thought he left with Renata the next day."


    "He returned during the night, when the kitchen staff were leaving. It was chaotic, easy to blend in. The


    uniform turned up in a dumpster at a shopping center, right on the route to Jan''s office. Probably


    Renata ditched it after getting out of his car. They''re running technical tests on it now." Re§Ñd at


    Dra§Þan§àvels


    "That asshole!" Catherine clenched her fists. "I''m going to make him pay for this!"


    I patted her hand and said, "We''ll make him pay, but first, you need to get well."


    With that, I stood up, and Hannah headed out after catching the hint, muttering, "Finally, I can change


    my clothes!"

 Chapter 419

    Chapter 419


    Catherine''s face was a picture of pure dilemma. She wanted to ask me to stay, but Hannah already


    made it clear that she needed to head home and change her clothes. After what happened for the past


    few days, Catherine couldn''t stop Hannah from going home and change!


    But if she let me leave, then it would be awkward since she had to stay in the room alone with Logan,


    who had just given her a lecture, and she was embarrassed!


    But deep down, I knew this was the perfect chance for Logan to give Hannah a nudge in the right


    direction. She was safely escaped this time didn''t mean she''d be so lucky in the future.


    Especially if Catherine was serious about choosing Logan, and the feeling was mutual. If love was in


    the cards, they needed to hash out any potential firestorms ahead.


    It was unmistakably time for a heart-to-heart between Catherine and Logan.


    I bit back a chuckle at Catherine''s constipated expression and made my quick escape!


    In my heart of hearts, I knew she was probably over the moon.


    When Hannah popped out, her grin was as mischievous as it gets. Before she could say a word,


    Geneva¡¯s call came. She wanted to know if I was still at the hospital since she wanted toe. I


    quickly stopped her, "I just left the ward. Why don''t you swing byter? Logan''s keeping an eye on her.


    They need some space, and it''s a golden opportunity!"


    Geneva was surprised, "You think there''s something cooking between them?"


    After giving Geneva the lowdown, she hummed in acknowledgment.


    "I think Catherine''s fallen hard this time. But Logan? He''s the real deal, someone you can count on for


    life. And from what I can see, Logan''s already smitten. So, we should help them?" I said.


    "You''re spot on. Since you''re out, how about we grab a bite and catch up? I''m heading out too,"


    Geneva offered. "Feels like it''s been ages!"


    Her suggestion had me grinning from ear to ear. "Sounds perfect! Where to?"


    "The Garden Caf¨¦," Geneva proposed.


    "Alright. See you there soon!" I ended the call and turned to Hannah, "Looks like that you¡¯ll have to go


    home and change your clothester. Breakfast at the Garden Caf¨¦, then we''ll figure it out."


    Hannah nodded in agreement, "Forget the clothes¡ªI''m all in for a good breakfast. Let''s roll!"


    We hopped into my car and made a beeline for the Garden Caf¨¦.


    The Garden Caf¨¦ was Goldenvale Town''s premier breakfast spot, boasting a collection of the nation''s


    finest morning eats, each dish a culinary masterpiece crafted by no ordinary chefs.


    The prices matched the prestige, the kind that made you suck in breath through your teeth.


    It was a rare treat for me, a bit toovish for my taste, but Geneva had a penchant for the finer things in


    life, and who was I to argue?


    Pulling up at the Garden Caf¨¦, Geneva had just arrived. I waited for her to park so we could head in


    together, but to my dismay, I bumped into thest person I wanted to see¡ªJan!


    Clearly, he hadn''t expected to see me here either. In his mind, I was supposed to be back in Silverdale


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    City. Quick to recover, he approached me with a smile stered on his face.


    "Honey, what brings you here?" he greeted, then nodded at Geneva, "Mrs. Atwood!"


    Geneva maintained herposed smile, offering a simple nod before turning to me, "You two chat. I''ll


    go order."


    I knew it was her way of excusing herself. Ever since Geneva caught wind of Jan''s antics, she


    couldn''t stand the sight of him. I grabbed her arm, "No need, let''s order together." New ch?pter


    av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Then I said to Jan, "We''re here for breakfast. You go on with your business."


    Still smiling, Jan nodded and made his exit, "Sure, go ahead. We''ll talk at home tonight."


    I snorted internally. Home? Was that still his home? Dream on!

 Chapter 420

    Chapter 420


    I casually lifted my gaze to meet his, a slight smirk curving my lips before I turned and walked inside. I


    could feel that piercing stare on my back, following me until I was out of sight.


    Geneva whispered to me, "Looks like he''s here for a meeting too."


    "Who else could it be? Either a woman or someone he''s begging for help. Yeah, I''d bet he''s in quite a


    pickle," I said with certainty.


    Geneva hummed in agreement, "That''s probably it. He looks desperate."


    "He dug his own grave," I said with a bit of schadenfreude. "He just settled his debts with the bank,


    lucky for him, or they''d be knocking on his door!"


    Geneva chuckled, "You''re spot on. Word is, he''s nearly bankrupt. Shareholders are up in arms, making


    a scene at Medsafe Liyah Inc. every day. Tax issues, suppliers demanding payments... his office has


    be a marketce, but not the prosperous kind. People are secretly dumping their shares."


    I spoke coolly, "Catherine was right; it''s time to schedule the divorce."


    As we chatted, I realized Hannah hadn''t followed us. Geneva asked, "Where''s Hannah?"


    "She''ll catch up," I replied nonchntly.


    After Geneva and I ordered our meals, we headed straight to the private room we''d reserved.


    Slumping onto the sofa, I sighed, "I need a break. I almost wore out these days..."


    "You''vee a long way," Geneva remarked with pride. "At first, you could hardly manage two hours


    straight, and now you''re like a warrior that can go on for days!"


    "I can''t," I joked. "I¡¯m still as fragile as ss."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Geneva chuckled. She sat beside me, somewhat exasperated, "Aaliyah, I didn''t really know you back


    then. You always seemed so quiet, so demure. But now, you''re apletely different person¡ªso


    lively!"


    "Geneva, marry a scoundrel and see if you stay demure!" I replied with mock bitterness. "Did you see


    those online trolls? They tore me apart."


    Geneva patted my shoulder, trying tofort me. "Don''t listen to them..."


    She shook her head, unable to finish, "There are all sorts out there... Remember that woman who


    jumped from the building after they harassed her online? But remember, Allie, there''s nowlessnd.


    They''ll get theirs in time. Karma is a bitch."


    "I saw that story, too," I said, my heart heavy. "If I had any less shame, I''d have jumped myself. But I


    can''t give up that easily. I have kids to think about, a mission toplete."


    "You''ve got the brains and the guts beyond ordinary. I believe in you!"


    "Absolutely!" We bothughed, the mood lightened. Co?tent §àf


    Soon enough, Hannah burst through the door, grinning at me and rushing over with her phone in hand.


    I handed the phone to Geneva, "Take a look. This is the guy Jan''s meeting with. Do you know him?"

 Chapter 421

    Chapter 421


    Geneva snatched the phone from my hand and scrutinized the photo. After a moment, she slowly


    shook her head. " I''ve never seen this guy before. With a look like that, you''d think he¡¯d be


    unforgettable, but..."


    "Maybe he''s not from Goldenvale Town?" I questioned, my suspicion piqued by Geneva''s response.


    "Possibly! I wouldn¡¯t forget a face like that!" Geneva scoffed, her meaning clear without further words.


    "The guy¡¯s bad news!" I dismissed the man with a wave of my hand, adding, "The Dawson brothers can


    always find the most creepy people possible! How did I marry into that family? s..." I abruptly


    covered my face in embarrassment.


    Genevaughed and draped an arm around my shoulder. "Don''t beat yourself up. Everyone gets it


    wrong sometimes. People are hard to read. And let''s face it, the Dawsons are good actors. No wonder


    you were taken in. It''s normal! Now that you''ve woken up and cut your losses, that''s what counts.


    Doesn''t matter how long it took to see this guy for what he is. Betterte than never!"


    "Geneva, spare me thefort talk. ''Betterte than never''? I''ve got three kids with him before I


    realized whether he was man or monster. How blind could I be? Just thinking about it gives me


    nightmares!"


    Geneva, hearing this,ughed boisterously and yfully punched my shoulder. "Oh,e on! Is it


    really that dramatic?"


    With a dead-serious face, I replied, "It really is. All this stress is eating me up inside. I can''t sleep at


    night. How foolish must I be to be strung along by such a person? Sometimes, I just want to jump off a


    building and start all over."


    Geneva quickly turned to me. "Remember what you said just now. Don''t entertain such dark thoughts!"


    I looked at her, reassured. "Don''t worry about that. He''s not worth it. I wouldn''t throw my life away over


    him! I meant like in those books where people get to start over. I''d choose to stay single for life rather


    than give him another nce. The very thought of him leaves such a dark shadow in my mind!"


    Both Geneva and Hannah, who had been listening, burst outughing.


    I went on, "Sometimes, I feel so disgusted with myself, like I can never scrub off the filth, no matter how


    many showers I take. Let''s just drop it!"


    Geneva wasughing so hard she slumped onto the couch, gasping for breath.


    I sighed, feeling utterly defeated. "I''m seriously curious. Did I wrong someone so badly in a previous life


    to deserve this punishment?"


    I cursed myself endlessly, as if possessed. Geneva wasughing hard, struggling to catch her breath.


    Turning to Hannah, I handed back the phone. "Send this photo to your boss. Check if it''s useful and


    don''t overlook any clues."


    Hannah smiled coyly and winked. "Don''t worry, I''ve already sent it to the boss!"


    I nodded in approval. "Smart cookie!"


    "The guys who kidnapped mest time still haven''t been identified. I mean, what kind of karma is this?


    Am I destined to be entangled with these people? To fall into their traps from miles away? How can I


    just ept that?" Re§Ñd at Dra§Þan§àvelsText ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 422

    Chapter 422


    Geneva quicklyforted me with a gentle expression, "Don''t beat yourself up, think about it.


    Misjudging someone because of being short-sighted is indeed a mistake on your part. But the kids are


    innocent. Look at them, think about your parents."


    She spoke gently, "You need to have a positive mindset. y with them with a smile! Besides, you''ve


    got us, your squad! I refuse to believe that we can''t take them on!"


    "That''s the spirit!" I chuckled sincerely. "Without all of you, where would my confidence be?"


    "And how old are you now, really? You¡¯re only thirty, and everything is still possible. It''s fortunate you''ve


    seen the light, and that''s truly something to celebrate," Geneva said breezily.


    I scoffed, repeating her words with disbelief, "Only thirty, huh?"


    "Exactly! Look around, how many people are thirty and still flying solo, with nowhere to call home? Not


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    to mention having kids, some are still daydreaming about finding a boyfriend. Be grateful! You''ve


    that?"


    Her words made meugh. "From the way you put it, it''s almost like I was right to mess up!"


    "That''s right! You have to see both sides of the coin. Your job now is to keep an eye on the kids. Make


    sure they don''t pick up any of the Dawson family''s bad habits, and you''ll be perfect!"


    The mention of the kids brought an instant beam to my face. Proudly, I said, "Of course, let me tell you,


    these kids are absolutely exceptional!"


    I went on to recount my little ones'' impressive behaviors to Geneva, who looked at me in shock,


    "Really? Isn''t that a bit early? They sure are clever beyond their years, already talking about


    management?"


    "Ah! When ites to these things, they''ve got it all figured out," I said with satisfaction.


    "My goodness, the apple doesn''t fall far from the tree!" Geneva remarked with a sense of wonder.


    "Allie, what more could you ask for? You have such wonderful parents!"


    "And I have Catherine, you, Jta and Janice!" I leaned contentedly on Geneva''s shoulder. " Just


    Jan is a blemish, an irreversible w, but maybe life is meant to be imperfect."


    Then something urred to me. "Oh! ...By the way, how''s Jta''s daughter, Nettie doing? Has she


    visited her mom?"


    As soon as I asked, Geneva''s face turned sour. "Don''t get me started!"


    "What happened? She didn''t visit?" I probed further, "Or did Janice not let her?"


    Geneva shook her head, "She didn''t go at all. She never went to see her mom."


    "How could she do that?" I eximed.


    "Logically, since Jta was taken in by Janice, she should have realized her mother must be awake!


    Irving should have thought of that too," I said, full of questions. "I don¡¯t know what Nettie is thinking!"


    "Everyone thinks that! It''s obvious to outsiders that Jta must have woken up to be taken home,"


    Geneva sighed. "But Nettie never showed up. How do you exin that?"


    I shook my head in dismay, "She is being ungrateful!"


    "And not just that, did you see the media coverage? She''s close with Olivia, unting a happy family of


    four, always cuddling her little brother in photos, all smiles," Geneva said with a mix of helplessness


    and anger.


    "No way! That''s outrageous!" I couldn''t help but interject.


    Geneva sighed, ready to say more, but the server arrived with our meal. Hannah, who had been busy


    with her phone the whole time, quickly came over to help set the dishes. Co?tent of Dr?manov§Öls


    I really admired Hannah''s temperament¡ªshe had the patience of a saint, could blend into the


    background, yet still radiate energy, and her smile was so healing. Not like the typical bodyguard types


    ¡ªcool, detached, and fierce.


    Once the server left, I called to Hannah, "Come on, sit down and eat!"


    She waved us off, "You guys go ahead, I''ll..."

 Chapter 423

    Chapter 423


    Geneva pulled her close with augh. "Come on! Hurry up and join us. We''re family here, girl. Why all


    the fuss? And what''s this about not being able to eat with us?"


    Hannah smiled back, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "I can swallow just fine, it''s just... well, it''s not quite


    proper, is it?"


    "Who cares about it? When you''re with me, I make the rules!" Geneva dered with augh. "Forget


    about your old rules when you''re with us. Sit down and let''s eat!"


    I couldn''t help but join in theughter, nudging Hannah with a wink as I echoed Geneva''s tone. "Sit


    down and let''s dig in!"


    With a chuckle, Hannah took her seat. We chatted and ate, and I shared my thoughts with Geneva¡ªI


    needed to use Jan''s fling with Renata as the perfect excuse to push through the divorce. I couldn''t


    keep dragging my feet.


    "It''s about time," Geneva said, nodding in agreement. "You''ve settled into your role at Medsafe Liyah


    Inc., there''s no turning back now. Best to deal with that mess sooner rather thanter. Besides, Jan''s


    a lost cause, you should get rid of him. He¡¯s only making you miserable!"


    "You''re right," I said, feeling resolved. "I decided to get it sorted the moment he left the Wilburn family


    estate and headed back to Silverdale City. But then I got sidetracked by that whole Catherine debacle.


    I''ll call mywyer Elbert right away!"


    Hannah was quick to offer her help. "I''ll ring Mr. Elbert and see when he''s avable!"


    "Great," I nodded, appreciating our unspoken understanding.


    "See how amazing your right-hand woman is, Allie? No moreints from you! You should be


    thankful for what you''ve got. Just think of Jan as a bad smell, once it''s gone, it''s gone!" Geneva said


    with her usual bluntness.


    I nced at Hannah, admitting, "I''m almost afraid I''ll get so used to having her around that if she ever


    left, I wouldn''t know what to do with myself."


    Geneva looked at Hannah with a knowing nod. "I get that feeling!"


    "It''s that dependency, isn''t it? It''s a real problem," I admitted.


    "That''s the truth," Geneva concurred before turning to Hannah. "It''s hard to find someone you click with


    like you two do."


    "Exactly," I agreed, my mind wandering to Marissa Collin. There was a time she was always at my side


    too, but she was not like Hannah. Marissa was more a symbol of betrayal, her smile hiding a heart full


    of malice and a dagger ready to stab you in the back.


    Geneva, as if sensing my thoughts, suddenly asked, "That case with Marissa, it''s still unsolved, right?"


    I shook my head. "No leads. I haven''t checked with Dalton."


    "It''s been a while since that all went down," Geneva sighed. "But she got what she deserved."


    A thought shed through my mind about the kidnappers losing their trail¡ªcould they be connected to


    Marissa''s case? But I quickly dismissed the thought. No need to trouble myself with more chaos.


    After finishing our meal and our chat, we stepped out of the restaurant, only to realize it was already 10


    a.m. Geneva had an appointment at noon, so we parted ways, nning to visit Janice and her sister


    the next day.


    Once in the car, Hannah told me, "I''ve set up a meeting with Mr. Elbert. He said he could meet us at


    our usual spot at 2 p.m."


    "Today?" I asked, a bit surprised.


    She nodded. "Yup. Do you have other ns? I should have asked you first."


    "No, it''s perfect. Looks like we need to head home and change," I smiled at her.


    Hannah chuckled. "I''m easy. As long as I don''t reek, I''m good to go."


    Reminded of this, I made a mental note to get Hannah a couple of outfits more typical for a girl her age.


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    New chapter av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    Wait a minute...


    A thought suddenly dawned on me. I snorted softly to myself and muttered under my breath, "What a


    nerve!"

 Chapter 424

    Chapter 424


    I knew exactly why he''de back waiting for me.


    Without missing a beat, I casually replied, "We had a lot to catch up!"


    He reached out to pull me towards him, but I dodged, asking icily, "What do you want?"


    Jan chuckled awkwardly, "Well, I... I just wanted to exin a few things to you."


    "Exin what?" I pretended to be unaffected and turned to Hannah, "Hey Hannah, could you run me a


    bath? I need to soak the bad vibes away." I intentionally said this to set a certain tone, then I slumped


    into the couch, feigning exhaustion.


    Jan scooted closer, "When did you get back? I would''ve picked you up if you told me earlier!"


    I smiled at him wryly, "Please, I wouldn''t want to trouble you."


    "Honey, don''t talk like that, I... I actually just bumped into Renata by chance!" That was hisme


    attempt at an exnation.


    "You bumped into each other and got a room? Quite spontaneous, aren¡¯t you?" I scoffed. "Since when


    do you live so freely?"


    He had the audacity to say with a straight face, "Nothing happened, okay?"


    "Really? You did nothing with Renata, so what did you do?" My gaze was sharp, pressing, "Want to go


    over it again with the cops?"


    "Allie, don''t be like that!¡± Clearly, my words struck a nerve with Jan, and his tone soured, yet he still


    yed innocent, "I just wanted to know when you got back. Why do you have to be so


    confrontational?"


    "Confrontational? You guys hurt Catherine and act like nothing''s wrong. You think I can just let that


    slide? Don¡¯t pretend you don¡¯t know she¡¯s missing. Of course, I had toe back." I didn''t bother


    hiding my anger anymore. There was no point in ying polite.


    "Allie, her getting hurt has nothing to do with me!" Jan desperately defended himself, "Don''t pin


    everything on me! I''m your husband, remember?"


    "Husband?" Iughed derisively, "Some husband you are, caught in the act at motels. What a p in


    the face for me!" I pointed at my own cheek for emphasis, "It really hurts, you know!"


    "But it really has nothing to do with me!" He insisted helplessly.


    "We''ll let the police decide if it involves you or not. But sharing a hotel room? You can''t deny that.


    Unless you were out?" I kept my eyes locked on him.


    His face twitched, and after a long moment, he begrudgingly gave a sycophantic smile, "Alright, no


    more arguing. I won''t exin anymore, okay? It just makes you mad. You''re not well; don''t upset


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    yourself."


    "Thanks, but no need for your concern. I owe my robust health to your ''kindness.'' But don''t worry, I''ve


    got fortune on my side, so those life insurance ns of yours are useless. Who knows who''ll bite the


    dust first?" I said, standing up to leave. I didn¡¯t want to spend another second with this walking disaster.


    Jan grabbed me as I turned to go, "Honey, don''t leave. I have something else to say."


    I shook off his grasp, "Speak up, and keep your hands to yourself!"


    Rubbing my sore wrist, I red at him fiercely.


    I snorted dismissively, looking down at him with disdain, "What now?"


    I knew it! New chapter av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    I burst outughing inwardly. This was the real reason he was here, not some coincidence.


    I leaned in close, my voice ice-cold, "Don''t even think about it."

 Chapter 425

    Chapter 425


    Jan''s eyes narrowed at my words, then he crawled a step closer. "Allie, you gotta help me out here!


    No matter what, you were the one who built Medsafe Liyah Inc. from the ground up. You can''t just


    stand by and watch it crumble, right?"


    I let out an exasperated chuckle and casually swiped on my phone before carelessly tossing it onto the


    couch, "Oh, so now you remember that I started it? Your family, the Dawsons, always hated when I


    brought that up, didn''t they?" I said with a sneer. "When trouble strikes, it''s mine, but when the going''s


    good, you act like I''m a stranger. So typical."


    "Besides, is it even my Medsafe Liyah Inc. anymore?" I locked eyes with Jan as I asked, and he


    guiltily met my gaze before looking away, the color in his eyes deepening.


    I knew exactly what he was thinking. After all, he knew what he had done.


    That so-called stock gift and management authorization document that I was supposed to have signed


    for Medsafe Liyah Inc. ¨C I might not know the full truth, but did he think I was clueless?


    Legally, Medsafe Liyah Inc. belonged entirely to him now, but the way it had happened was anything


    but transparent. I was sure he understood the implication of my words.


    Unless he was aplete fool.


    From his look, I knew he was thinking about that. But the confusion in his eyes told me he wasn''t


    entirely sure whether I knew the whole truth or not.


    I left it at that. I intended to give him a surprise gift of sorts.


    Shifting gears, I questioned, "Isn''t Medsafe Liyah Inc. belonged to the Dawsons now? From top to


    bottom, filled with your cronies. I feel like a thief in my ownpany. Now you tell me it''s mine?"


    He didn''t respond, just kept scrutinizing me, trying to figure out my thoughts.


    "Well, it is mine indeed! I thought you''d forgotten that too!" I saw a spark of hope in Jan''s eyes as I


    spoke. The tone of my words now was vastly different from before, filled with resentment.


    I was furious, using him of betrayal. I saw hope flicker in his eyes, and he crawled closer, this time


    grabbing my hand without hesitation. I couldn''t pull away.


    "Babe, listen to me," he pleaded. "I regret letting those clowns in. They''re useless when it really


    Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    matters. Look, I''ve brought in Caleb, trust me. Just give me some time, and I''ll send them packing back


    to wherever they crawled out from, okay?


    But right now, we need to stick together to get through this tough spot. I never expected things to get


    this bad, to affect Medsafe Liyah Inc.! I''ve always been extra careful, but this time¡­"


    He was a smooth talker, no doubt about that. He deserved an award for it.


    "Ha, ''extra careful,'' you say? Taking Renata to a hotel and making it public knowledge. If that''s you


    being careful, I''d hate to see you reckless," I said, my voice dripping with sarcasm but softer than


    before.


    Jan perked up, immediately putting on a smile. "Honey, would you believe me if I said nothing


    happened between us?"


    I smirked but kept silent, feigning disinterest as I stood up.


    "Just what?" I pressed.


    He averted his gaze, and I knew he wouldn''t tell the truth.


    "You''re still making excuses? With your photos online and the police record as clear as day, you dare


    lie to me?" I shrugged off his grasp and stood up. "Jan, not only are you a womanizer, but a liar too!


    You create a mess and still lie?"  Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    Damn! That felt good. The perfect height and distance made it too tempting.

 Chapter 426

    Chapter 426


    His grip was iron-strong around my throat, the pressure making a sickening crunching noise. I


    struggled to breathe, my vision blurring with shes of light. Instinctively, my hands wed at his,


    desperate to pry them away.


    "You think you can disrespect me? You brought this upon yourself, you''re..." His rant was cut short as a


    shadow moved with lightning speed. Before I couldprehend what happened, Jan was sent


    flying, and I ended up sprawling onto the couch.


    A thunderous crash echoed through the room, followed by a dull thud. Arge decorative vase that


    stood nearby had toppled, shattering into pieces across the hardwood floor.


    Gulping in fresh air, I was seized by a violent coughing fit, gasping for breath. The terror of suffocation


    had been overwhelming, and now, with tears and mucus streaming down my face, I didn''t bother to


    clean them, focused only on stabilizing my ragged breathing as waves of seething anger rushed at me.


    Hannah quickly examined my neck, babbling apologies. "I''m so sorry, miss! It''s my fault, I should have


    looked after you better!"


    We had an unspoken understanding, Hannah and I. I knew her concern was genuine, but her words


    were part of an act.


    Furious, I red at Jan, who was trying to get up. I shoved Hannah aside and charged at him,


    kicking him with all the primal force I could muster - a release for my pent-up rage.


    Though my kick was amateurish, it was effective. Jan, caught off guard, stumbled back to the


    ground. I wasn''t done yet. "You think you cany hands on me, Jan? You''ve got another thing


    I never thought he''d dare to hurt me so openly, and rage clouded my judgment.


    I didn''t give him a chance to react. I pounced on top of him, my mind filled with images of Hertha


    beating Marissa. I mimicked the moves, pping him fiercely, "That''s for touching me!"


    "Aaliyah, I¡¯m gonna kill you..." he growled, trying to sit up and fight back.


    Hannah stepped forward quickly, kicking him in the head. "If you so much as twitch, I''ll break your


    hands. Whichever one you move, that''s the one I''ll disable. Try me!"


    Her words worked like magic; he didn''t dare move after that.


    Hannah loomed over him. "Mr. Wilburn sent me to protect thedy. He knew a day mighte when


    you''d turn on her. He bet right, so don''t me me for not being nice. You make a move, I''ll make you


    regret it."


    Her message to Jan was clear - she was sent by Mr. Wilburn. I wasn''t alone; the Wilburn family had


    my back.


    Jan, cunning as he was, ceased to resist upon hearing Hannah''s deration.


    I unleashed my fury like a lioness, roaring as I raised my hand again and again, pping him


    mercilessly. I poured two months'' worth of anger into my punches, not caring if I was hitting his head or


    backside, until he was bleeding from his mouth.


    Hannah, not realizing how intense I''d be, only intervened when I could p no more.


    "Enough, miss, stop! You''ll hurt yourself!" she pleaded.


    I was indeed exhausted, struggling to even stand from atop that wretched man.


    Her words rmed me, and I rushed to the bathroom to wash the blood off my hands.


    Carefully inspecting my hands, I found them red but unharmed. Relief washed over me as I internally


    chastised myself for forgetting such a risk. Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    That was too close.

 Chapter 427

    Chapter 427


    I mustered all the strength in my body to roar those words out, and as they left my lips, I felt a wave of


    relief wash over me, like a prisoner freed after years behind bars.


    Jan''s face was a picture of utter confusion when he heard them, a tangled mess of shock, fear,


    resentment, disbelief, and even a hint of self-pity. I couldn''t fathom why he''d wear such an expression.


    He lunged towards me, "Allie..."


    But Hannah was faster, delivering a swift kick that sent him tumbling to the ground. Grimacing in pain,


    he managed to sit up but didn''t dare stand. Instead, he crawled rapidly towards me.


    He reached out to grab me, and I instinctively stepped back in disgust.


    Looking up at me, his face was the epitome of humility. "Babe, I messed up! I shouldn''t haveid a


    hand on you, please forgive me! These past few days have been hell. Let''s not fight anymore, okay?


    Think about our kids, our beautiful home, and Medsafe Liyah Inc! Honey, help me out, and we can live


    peacefully again... I swear I''ll never raise my hand to you!"


    "Jan, which of your words am I supposed to believe, huh? Saving Medsafe Liyah Inc.?" I eyed him


    skeptically. "When I entrusted it to you, do you remember the state it was in?"


    "I do, of course I do!" he blurted out desperately. "I know you''ve always believed in me."


    "You know I''ve trusted you. And what did you do?" I asked, every word heavy with usation.


    "You''ve knelt and begged for my forgiveness time and time again, and you''ve forgotten what I saidst


    time, haven''t you?"


    I let out a mockingugh, "Ha... The same old excuses every time. Can''t youe up with something


    new? If it was a failed investment, an unexpected project hup, or even a scam, I''d be duty-bound to


    help. I''d reach into my pocket even if it bankrupted me.


    But it''s always about another woman, about you not being able to keep it in your pants, about the


    Dawson family''s greed... Do you really think I''m a fool?


    You drugged me, expecting me to just lie down and suffer when you were on top of the world. Now that


    you''ve hit rock bottom, youe groveling. It¡¯s like karma hase full circle! And you think you can


    ask my father for help? How dare..."


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    Before I could finish, Jan quickly interjected, "I won¡¯t ask your father for help, okay? Babe, just lend


    me some cash, and we''ll sort this out ourselves, okay?"


    "Tell me the truth, was it your idea to drug me?" I demanded sternly.


    "I..." His eyes shifted, clearly looking for a lie.


    "If you tell me one more lie, you''ll have nowhere to turn," I warned.


    "I have told you, it was my brother''s idea to drug you, not mine!" Jan pushed the me onto his


    brother.


    "Where did the druge from?" I pressed on.


    "From my brother! He told me it was just to make you sleep!" he insisted earnestly.


    I bore into him with my gaze, and he added guiltily, "I didn''t think it would hurt you."


    "Why did he want you to drug me?"


    "Just... so you wouldn''t interfere with Medsafe Liyah Inc. anymore!" Jan confessed.


    He straightened up suddenly, a look of rm crossing his face, "How did you..."


    Seeing he wouldn''t continue, I jumped in to guide his thoughts, "How did I find out, you mean?"


    "I... well..." Jan stumbled over his words and finally asked, "How did you find out?"


    to Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    I sighed in relief; it seemed my guess was correct, and there were indeed hallucinogens involved, just


    as Logan had said.


    "But I''m your wife," I pressed him. "You conspired with the nanny to drug me and even had an affair


    with her. Did you think I wouldn''t find out?"


    Despite everything, Jan had the audacity to look at me, seeking validation for his plea.

 Chapter 428

    Chapter 428


    Hearing Jan''s retort, I couldn''t help but burst intoughter. "It''s over! Hahaha... Medsafe Liyah Inc. is


    over!"


    I threw my head back,ughing so hard tears streamed down my face. It was a huge relief!


    Thepany was finallying back into my hands. I muttered to myself, "I should have never


    handed Medsafe Liyah Inc. over to you, fattening up your greedy family like a Thanksgiving turkey!


    Now look at you, you''ve run it into the ground! Good, I''m d it''s over!"


    pping my hands in sheer schadenfreude, I then fixed my gaze on Jan and roared, "It''s about


    damn time! This is the Dawsons'' fate!"


    "I''m telling you now, Jan! Keep your tainted Medsafe Liyah Inc.; I''d rather take the money you


    mentioned for its rescue and invest anew, raise a newpany! I won''t be saving the rotten husk


    you''ve left behind!" I dered, mming my sentiment down like a gavel. "You can kiss that dream


    goodbye!"


    Upon hearing this, Jan sprang to his feet, his eyes bloodshot with rage. His face, already swollen


    from my earlier p, twisted grotesquely, his hair a mess, far from his usual smug appearance. His


    eyes were filled with a murderous re.


    Hannah shook out her wrists, ready to leap into action.


    Jan took an involuntary step back but tried to appear calm as he said, "Aaliyah, you''re ruthless,


    watching Medsafe Liyah Inc. fall apart and doing nothing. You are cold-blooded!"


    His jaw clenched in obvious fury, but with Hannah there, he dared noty another finger on me.


    Finally, he spat out, "Aaliyah, you want a divorce? Don''t even dream about it. You''re tied to me, Jan,


    for life! The only way you''re leaving me is over my dead body!"


    "Then die!" I hissed through clenched teeth, and then I scoffed at him, "You''re already digging your own


    grave; do you really think there''s a way back for you? Medsafe Liyah Inc. failing under your watch was


    inevitable! You''ll be theughingstock of Goldenvale Town, nothing but a gutter rat. Even with a


    mountain of gold, you''d end up broke. You''re a lost cause, Jan. A perfect match for Zora; she''s your


    true equal!"


    Caught off guard by my words, he stared at me dumbfounded, then let out a sinisterugh, "Aaliyah, I


    underestimated you."


    "Well, keep watching," I snapped, "because I will make this a life you''ll never forget!"


    "We''ll see about that!" Jan chuckled darkly. "Allie, I''m your husband for life. I will never agree to a


    divorce, unless..."


    His gaze lingered on me with ill intent, his smirk widening as he whispered, "Unless you die."


    The word struck me like an ice pick to the heart, shattering every memory of the past ten years.


    Despite knowing the unforgivable things he''d done, nothing hurt as much as those words.


    Ten years wasted!


    After his taunt, Jan turned to leave, casting a wary nce at Hannah before slinking away like an


    eel, his exit as ugly as his intentions. At the door, he dared to stop and throw onest provocative smirk


    my way, "The best part about you dying is, I''m the first heir."


    Hannah, fists clenched in anger, started toward the door. I called out to her, "Hannah!"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    She halted, fists still white-knuckled, and exhaled a frustrated, "He¡¯s too much!"


    "That monster, he won''t die well!" Hannah fumed. Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    "Allie, don''t take his words to heart." Hannah said as she came over to sit beside me.

 Chapter 429

    Chapter 429


    I pushed myself up from the couch, stretching out the kinks in my back, and turned to Hannah with a


    yawn. "I''m gonna take a quick bath to freshen up. You should get some rest, too. We''ve got that


    appointment with Mr. Elbertter."


    "Sure thing!" Hannah chirped back, her voice bubbling with energy.


    The moment I sank into the warmth of the bath, my muscles finally rxed. I was bone-tired, my


    eyelids heavy. If it weren''t for the meeting with Elbert, I would''ve seriously considered curling up for a


    nap. But Jan''s words kept reying in my mind - "Unless you die!" That''s what he had the gall to


    say. The man I''d given a decade of my life to.


    First heir? What a joke! He probably didn''t even know that I''d already put Gemma, that old coot, behind


    bars. And as for my parents, they were in safe hands with Ronan looking after them.


    And even though it was no secret that I was the silent powerhouse behind VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals,


    my dad''s genius was in the fine print. He had all the authority over the shares, handling everything until


    I officially took over. That meant all transactions went through him until I signed on the dotted line and


    made it officially mine. Those properties were my premarital property, so Jan had no im over


    them.


    First heir, my foot!


    With my dad, that crafty old fox, he wouldn''t get a dime from the Wilburn estate.


    Even if I¡¯m dead, he wouldn''t see a cent. I''d moved all the assets that came my way, just like he did -


    legally and out of reach. His dreams of being the first in line were nothing but pipe dreams.


    As I meticulously went over every detail in my mind, ensuring there were no loose ends, there was a


    knock on the bathroom door. It was Hannah, reminding me the time and our need to head out. The


    ce we were heading to was off the beaten path and warranted an early start.


    I sprung from the tub, rinsed off, and felt recharged, like a battery at full capacity.


    I slipped into a loose-fitting sunny yellow silk dress, cinching it at the waist with a slim belt, looking both


    smart and fetching. Just my short hair needed a trim.


    Stepping out with my room, I found Hannah leaning against her door, scrolling through her phone. She


    nced up and couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow, "You look stunning!"


    I shed a confident smile. "Thanks!"


    Hannah''s little grin twinkled with mischief. "I¡¯m proud to be the chauffeur!"


    I paused, giving her a once-over. "Hmm... you could use a makeover!"


    "Stop right there!" She wrapped an arm around me, ushering me forward. "Please, I can''t deal with


    your fashionista vibe. Not my style!"


    "What''s wrong with it?" I teased, tugging at her sleek ponytail. "Would it kill you to mix it up, maybe dial


    up the m a bit?"


    "Not my style," she protested. "I don''t have time for that! I''d rather catch some extra sleep."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Are you tired?" I eyed her, then quickly nodded in agreement. "True, I''ve been running you ragged.


    Once things settle down, I''ll make sure you sleep as much as you want."


    "Or not!" She let go and gestured for me to head downstairs. "I''m used to the pace now. If I try to sleep


    in, I''ll just lie there, wide awake."


    I smirked, ribbing her further. "That''s your problem; no wonder Larkin looks clueless. You''ll be waiting


    forever at this rate!"


    Her face flushed a fiery red as she bolted ahead. "Stop teasing me!"


    She didn''t look back, just jumped into the car and revved the engine.


    Hannah seemed confused. "You''re looking to buy?" Read at


    The car rolled away from the estate, and we made small talk on the way to the seaside club.


    Suddenly, Hannah''s tone changed. "Heads up, Allie. Someone¡¯s tailing us."

 Chapter 430

    Chapter 430


    Caught off guard, I was just about to turn around when Hannah swiftly cautioned, "Don''t look back!"


    I nced in the rear-view mirror and, sure enough, a white Volkswagen was trailing us at a consistent


    distance. Hannah kept her cool, driving with deliberate nonchnce, and the car behind maintained its


    distance.


    After passing two intersections, Hannah casually asked, "Should we shake them off?"


    I mulled it over for a second, "No, let them follow. If we lose them now, they''ll just stick to us againter.


    I want to see what they''re up to."


    "Do you think it''s Jan?" Hannah peered into the mirror, her eyes not leaving the persistent vehicle.


    "Most likely," I scoffed dismissively at the car behind us, "He must be dying to know what I''m up to. But


    I¡¯ve put my cards on the table. I¡¯m not scared of him."


    The car followed us right up to the private driveway of the clubhouse, then dropped off. It was too


    obvious to keep tailing us once we hit that stretch.


    Arriving at the clubhouse, we strode to our usual haunt with the familiarity of old friends.


    Before we entered, Hannah whispered a few instructions to which I nodded. She then left.


    I pushed open the door and walked in. Elbert was already there, perusing some documents.


    He looked up with a smile and stood, extending his hand, "Ms. Wilburn, long time no see!"


    I shook his hand warmly, "Mr. Elbert, it''s been too long. Thanks for doing this!"


    "No trouble at all, it''s what I''m here for," he said, gesturing for me to sit down.


    Without much preamble, a habit of his profession, Elbert got straight to the point, "Are you ready?"


    "Absolutely. It''s about time," I replied with certainty, "I''ve been waiting for this day for a long time."


    "Indeed, it is time to settle this," Elbert''s smile was gentle, "Given your unique situation, though, we''ll


    need fresh evidence, especially recent developments, to make the process fast."


    "Isn''t the current evidence enough?" I challenged.


    "It depends on the oue you want. If you want him out of the picturepletely, clean and clear,


    we''ll need solid, recent evidence. Inte gossip won''t hold up in court," Elbert exined, outlining the


    steps I''d need to take.


    "I can handle it," I assured him confidently.


    I yed him a recording I''d made earlier that day. Elbert''s eyes lit up, "This can serve as supporting


    material, but the contents are hugely in our favor¡ªthreats, domestic abuse, infidelity, asset seizure. All


    highly damaging to him."


    We discussed evidence and strategy for nearly three hours, and I learned a great deal.


    If it weren''t for Elbert''s other n at 5 PM, we might have talked even longer.


    Due to the tailing earlier, I asked Elbert to leave first while I stayed behind. Once he''d left in a hurry,


    Hannah came back in, and I asked her to order dinner. We decided to eat right there.


    While eating, Hannah reported, "I checked, that car didn''t follow us in. I ran the tes¡ªit¡¯s real, but not


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    registered to Medsafe Liyah Inc. The owner is someone named Zachary."


    I sifted through my memory; there was no one by that name in the Dawson family circle.


    "I wish he would keep following us¡ªit''s just handing me more evidence," I said, wiping my mouth with


    a napkin and looking at Hannah. "Isn''t he eager for my death? I just hope he''s not too scared to act.


    The moment he does, we win. Pass Zachary''s name to Logan; have him dig into it."


    "I''ve already sent it off, waiting on a reply," Hannah put down her fork.


    "Can''t be too sure. They could switch cars and keep tailing," Hannah spected, "They always did so."


    "I''m positive it''s Jan. He''s scared. And now, with his hands tied, he''s sent someone to monitor who I


    meet with," I said with conviction.


    "It¡¯s not me he can¡¯t let go; it¡¯s my assets." New ch§Ñpter av?ble on Dr§Ñman§àvels.c§à§Þ


    "Damn, who does he think he is?" Hannah''s face was a mix of disbelief and disdain.


    After dinner, I told her, "We need to pay a visit to the hospital to check on the patient; otherwise, she''ll


    startining again."


    "Can''t it wait until morning? You haven''t had a good night''s sleep in days. Better get some rest,"


    Hannah urged, concerned.


    Instead of answering, I asked her seriously, "Has Larkin been working with Logan these past few


    days?"

 Chapter 431

    Chapter 431


    At Hannah''s words, I chuckled, "Let''s hit the road. It''s not that I doubt your ability to protect me¡ªit''s just


    that something else has got me thinking!"


    "Oh!" Hannah''s cheeks flushed a deep crimson as she hurriedly started the car.


    Leaning in to catch a glimpse of her face, I teased, "Hannah, why does your face turn as red as a ripe


    tomato every time I mention Larkin''s name?"


    "It does not!" She nced my way, her voiceced with urgency. Seeing my scrutinizing smile, she


    realized I was teasing her and shot me a look, grumbling, "Stop teasing me!"


    I was about to retort when suddenly Hannah''s phone rang. She said to me, "Pick it up!"


    I grabbed her phone, the screen shing ''DragonLord!''


    Quickly, I tapped to answer and switched on speaker. Logan''s voice came through without dy,


    "Hannah, there''s something fishy about Zachary''s background."


    "What''s up?" she inquired with a note of rm.


    "You need to hear this. The guy isn''t from around here, and his family reported him missing five years


    ago."


    "Missing?" Hannah echoed, taken aback. Our eyes met, and a sinister premonition bloomed in my


    chest.


    "Yeah, and there''s more. We checked the purchase date for this car, and it coincides with the day


    Zachary was reported missing. But when we spoke to his family, they said he couldn''t possibly afford a


    car. He lost contact with them two months after he left home for work, and he hasn''t been home since!


    So, the car''s a hot potato, and the cops are on the lookout for it. You girls need to stay alert! If you spot


    it again, call it in straight away!" Logan''s voice was firm with concern.


    "OK, got it!" Hannah acknowledged.


    I quickly asked, "Logan, are you still at the hospital?"


    "Yes!" came his confident reply.


    Hearing that he was still at the hospital, I said, "Then tell Catherine we''re heading home. We''ll swing by


    in the morning. Geneva mentioned she wanted toe too."


    Catherine''s voice crackled through the speaker, "Allie, that''s not cool, leaving me high and dry. Is that


    how you treat a friend?"


    "Oh, I''m good! Isn''t someone taking care of you? What''s there toin about?" I shot back.


    She was being a big baby right now, but I won¡¯t give her the chance.


    Hannah snickered at myment and gave me a thumbs-up.


    "I coulde too, but then Logan should head back to Silverdale City. He''s not someyabout. He''s


    there just for you, and you''re still not satisfied? If you ask me, it''s about time you checked out of that


    hospital," I said, half-joking, half-serious.


    Catherine let out a wail, "Aaliyah, have you no heart? I just wanted to check on that no-good..."


    I cut her off mid-sentence, "You already know he''s a no-good, so why did you tail him..."


    Before we could finish our banter, the car jolted violently with a loud ''bang,'' and I screamed, my head


    whipping around as the phone flew from my grasp.


    "Damn it!" Hannah cursed, yelling at me, "Hold on tight!"


    I clutched the grab handle, panic setting in as I tried toprehend what had just happened.


    Logan''s voice was stilling from somewhere in the car, calling out, "Hannah, what''s going on?..."


    Fear gripped me as I peered out the window to see a ck jeep towering over our car. Clearly, we were


    at a disadvantage.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Hannah gripped the steering wheel with all her might, her focusser-sharp as she raced the other car.


    Logan''s voice persisted, anxious, "Hannah, talk to me, what''s happening?..." New ch?pter av?ble o?


    I frantically searched for the phone to update Logan, but Hannah snapped, "Forget it, hold on tight!"


    "Hang on, Allie!" she shouted, and then she floored the elerator...

 Chapter 432

    Chapter 432


    Our car shot out like a bullet, leaving the jeep behind. But in no time at all, the jeep was on our tail


    again. Hannah floored the gas, and the two vehicles tore down the road in a mad dash, one chasing


    the other like a scene straight out of an action film.


    I could still hear Logan''s voice on the phone, "...location, give me your approximate location..."


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ncing outside, I finally realized we were speeding down Seabreeze Boulevard, the coastal road that


    led to the club we had just left. Below us was the endless expanse of the ocean, and to the right, the


    towering silhouette of Hignd Peak from Goldenvale Town.


    To our left was a steep drop-off, a treacherous slope strewn with jagged boulders and dense thickets of


    trees¡ªa veritable cliff¡¯s edge for any vehicle moving at high speeds.


    It was clear¡ªthe other car''s intent was simple: to run us off the road and push us down the cliffside.


    I shouted into the phone, ¡°We¡¯re on Seabreeze Boulevard, just pas¡ª¡±


    With a jarring crash, my body lurched forward, my words were cut off as the seatbelt tightened my


    chest painfully. Then I was yanked back into my seat, my head spinning, seeing stars.


    They had rammed us from behind this time.


    Gripping the handle desperately, fear spread through me like wildfire, my palms slick with sweat.


    Hannah was silent,ser-focused on the road, her eyes darting to the rear-view mirror to track the


    pursuing vehicle, keeping the pressure on, never letting it gain on us.


    Peering into the side mirror, I saw the other car, like a crazed beast, relentlessly biting at our heels, its


    movements suggesting it wouldn''t stop until we were dead.


    The road wasn''t too busy at this hour, but the asional car would pass by. We dodged and weaved,


    our car drawing S-curves on the asphalt, I could hear the screech of tires.


    I was too petrified by the sudden onught to even scream, clinging silently to the handle above the


    car window.


    Hannah was controlling the steering wheel calmly, the car drifting across the road. I understood her


    strategy¡ªshe was determined not to let the other car overtake us, to prevent it from forcing us off the


    road. If we went over, it would mean certain death, no chance of survival.


    Furthermore, the attacks targeted the passenger side, which meant I, sitting shotgun, was in the direct


    line of fire. It was clear¡ªI was their target!


    But Hannah¡¯s driving, her every defensive swerve and drift, was an invisible shield around me, her way


    of protecting me from harm.


    This increased the difficulty of her task exponentially¡ªnot only did she have to avoid oing traffic


    and fend off the relentless assaults from behind, but she also had to prevent them from overtaking us.


    I stared through the rear-view mirror, petrified, forgetting even to scream.


    The other car, frustrated by Hannah''s suppression, rammed us again with full speed.


    Sensing their intent, Hannah jerked the wheel sharply, the car sliding into a drift that sent our rear


    fishtailing. The other car''s bumper grazed empty air, and in that brief respite, Hannah pushed the


    elerator, putting some distance between us.


    I exhaled a shaky breath, but I was far from optimistic; the Seabreeze Boulevard stretch was thirteen


    kilometers long.


    Once we exited this stretch and hit the city limits, our pursuers would lose their advantage. But now,


    dusk was setting in, nightfall fast approaching.


    I cursed the time wasted back at the club.


    Clearly, they were determined not to let us go, especially not to miss this prime opportunity to kill me on


    this road.


    The jeep behind us had several near-misses with oing traffic.


    It wasn''t easy for us either; it took all of Hannah''s concentration. I didn''t dare even breathe too loudly


    for fear of distracting her¡ªmy life was literally in her hands.


    I pulled my gaze back from the mirror, only for a more horrifying scene to unfold before us. I couldn''t


    help screaming...

 Chapter 433

    Chapter 433


    As I snapped my gaze away from the rear-view mirror and back to the road ahead, a scream tore


    through my throat. I saw a panel van was barreling straight towards us.


    To make matters worse, we were on a winding road with a gentle slope, and the van had already


    rounded the bend, speeding downhill due to the gentle curve.


    Our car had just suffered a brutal rear-end collision and was desperately trying to straighten up to avoid


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    another hit. In the chaos, we had strayed into the oingne.


    In a brief heartbeat, the jeep behind us picked up speed.


    The van''s driver realized the danger,ying on the horn in a series of shrill, desperate warnings.


    But it was clear¡ªwe were trapped.


    The jeep behind us was now hugging the right one-third of our vehicle, overtaking us and showing no


    signs of slowing down.


    The van was clearly trying to decelerate, but it was still moving too fast. There was no time for reverse


    gears; the panel van was charging at us. My mouth agape, eyes bulging, my body froze as my mind


    nked out. A silent wail echoed in my heart¡ªI was going to die.


    With less than a hundred meters separating us from the oing threat, our car jerked, veering to the


    left.


    My hands clung to the handle for dear life as the sudden turn sent my body mming into the door


    before copsing to the left.


    It was our only option; the vehicle to our right sought to trap us between itself and the van, leaving us


    nowhere to turn. A collision would be catastrophic, undoubtedly.


    The van driver, sensing our move, instinctively steered to their left as well¡ªa gut reaction.


    This move put our adversary under fatal pressure. We were now fully in the wrongne, and Hannah''s


    sharp turn had brought us close to the left edge.


    Everything happened too fast!


    I had no clue what was unfolding or what the consequences might be. My soul felt like it had already


    left my body.


    The ring horns, the looming shape of the van, the yellow lines slipping past the headlights, and the


    overwhelming presence of the van bearing down...


    In the next instant, our car skimmed past the van''s swaying body, narrowly avoiding a catastrophic


    encounter.


    I felt the rear of our car swing wildly to the left, followed by a deafening crash...


    Fear gripped me; I wasn''t sure if it was our car that had made that terrible sound. But I felt the van''s


    impact on our tail.


    Chills ran down my spine as I screamed instinctively, my body mming into the right door before


    being jolted back.


    Our car was now being squeezed onto the edge of the roadbed, still charging forward.


    to Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    Our bodies tilted with the car, leaning towards the downward slope.


    I closed my eyes in despair. It was over.

 Chapter 434

    Chapter 434


    Just when I thought we were dead for sure, our car gave this crunching noise and shuddered to a stop,


    hanging on by what felt like a thread.


    After what felt like an eternity, I peeled my eyes open, my heart racing, and saw Hannah peering down


    with wide eyes.


    She turned back quickly, her voice sharp with urgency. ¡°Don¡¯t you move a muscle. Stay still, Allie!¡±


    I froze, but my gaze couldn''t help looking downward. Below us was what seemed like an abyss, our car


    dangling over the edge, as if caught on something, swayingzily, almost mockingly, in tune with our


    dumb luck.


    "Don¡¯t move. We¡¯re caught on a branch, and there''s still momentum keeping us here. It''ll stabilize


    soon!" Hannah tried to reassure me.


    Just as I let out a breath of relief, the car lurched down with a ''crack'', and I screamed again, mming


    my eyes shut, too terrified to even breathe properly, as if the slightest breath could tip the bnce and


    send us plummeting.


    We were at a 45-degree angle, gravity pulling us down. Especially me¡ªI was nted, my whole weight


    hanging on the seatbelt. If it broke or came loose, it was game over for both of us.


    Hannah was in a better spot, her body pressed against the door, looking much morefortable than I


    was. But if my seatbelt snapped or came loose, I''d crash into her, and the sudden shift would surely


    send the car tumbling further down.


    The situation was grim, any previous relief evaporating as my pulse hammered in my ears.


    Hannah kept up her calm front. ¡°Don¡¯t be scared. I¡¯ll figure out a way to get us out of this!¡±


    As she spoke, she made a slight move, attempting to unfasten her seatbelt, but the car swayed


    rmingly with the slightest motion. The tree branch wasn''t as sturdy as we needed it to be.


    I quickly said, ¡°Hannah, stop moving, just wait... someone wille. Someone has toe.¡±


    I was hoping that passing cars would notice the ident and someone would stop to help.


    Hannah nodded, trying to stayposed. ¡°Right! You''re right!¡±


    I was amazed at her coolness, especially how she had handled the face-off with the van earlier. That


    wasn''t instinct; it was Hannah''s clear-headedness, her perfect timing. If I had been driving, we''d


    probably dead by now because I was petrified in that moment.


    My right hand was still mped on the car handle, stiff and afraid to move.


    Hannah caught my strained look and softly said, ¡°Allie, rx a bit. Keep your position but don¡¯t strain so


    much, you¡¯ll get tired. We don¡¯t know what''s happening above, or if help wille. If you keep that


    tension, your arms will give out. Just rx... ease up. We¡¯re going to be okay. I''ll think of something.


    We can''t just wait here to die.¡±


    ¡°That car''s got to be toast by now,¡± Hannah said with a light chuckle, almost reading my thoughts. ¡°You


    okay, Allie?¡±


    ¡°I''m fine!¡± I lied, feeling nauseous and dizzy from the adrenaline and the wild ride. But I didn''t want to


    worry her. Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Hannah heard it too and looked up before gasping, ¡°...It¡¯s Larkin!¡±

 Chapter 435

    Chapter 435


    The shout pierced through the darkness like a beacon, and I felt a sudden surge of hope. We were


    going to make it out alive after all!


    I could hear Larkin''s voice calling out, ¡°Hannah, Ms. Wilburn, are you both alright?¡±


    Hannah''s voice came through, strained but hopeful, ¡°...We''re okay!¡±


    Her shout was followed by a sickening ''crack'' from the car, and my heart lurched with fear.


    Please hold on, I prayed silently.


    There was a tense silence thatsted an eternity, or maybe it was just three minutes, before Larkin''s


    figure appeared in our line of sight.


    Hannah let out a cry of relief, ¡°Larkin!¡±


    ¡°Stay calm, hold on!¡± Larkin cut off her jubtion as he checked the stability of the car.


    ¡°We might not have much time left! The branches holding us up are too thin,¡± Hannah shouted, her


    voice edged with panic.


    ¡°Got it! Don''t worry!¡± Larkin replied, then I saw him signal upwards before he was hoisted away.


    Before long, the car was secured by two thick ropes, and Larkin helped us out. My legs nearly gave out


    as soon as I touched the ground, but Larkin was there to steady me.


    It took a moment for me to collect myself, to get my emotions under control.


    Meanwhile, Hannah had dashed over to the scene of the ident, about 50 meters from where our car


    had hung precariously.


    ¡°I need to see for myself!¡± I said, determined to walk over.


    Larkin grabbed my arm, stopping me. ¡°Mydy, maybe it''s better if you don''t.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked, confused. He just shrugged


    I understood but still moved forward, ¡°I need to see their fate for myself.¡±


    The chaos that met my eyes, though, was beyond anything I''d ever imagined. I pped a hand over


    my mouth and bolted to the side, retching violently.


    The scene was a macabre tableau, the air thick with the stench of blood.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Hannah came back to my side, patting my back gently as I struggled to keep myself together. I hadn''t


    felt great before, but now I waspletely spent.


    Finally, with nothing left in my stomach, I straightened up and Larkin handed me a tissue.


    I wiped the corners of my eyes and mouth, sniffling, ¡°How many were in the car?¡±


    ¡°Two. They didn''t make it,¡± Hannah said casually, as if she was immune to the horror.


    ¡°And the van driver?¡± I asked, worried. After all, it was just a case of being in the wrong ce at the


    wrong time for him.


    ¡°There are two people in the van, both injured, but not seriously, thank goodness!¡± Hannah had


    gathered quite a bit of information by now.


    Our car was pulled up and was a total wreck, beyond repair. Larkin retrieved our phones and my purse,


    briefed the responding officers, and ushered us into his own vehicle.


    Reporters were already descending on the scene, their cameras shing from a distance.


    After two officers finished taking our statements in the car, Larkin started the engine and we drove


    away from the grim scene.


    He nced back at me, ¡°Mydy, where to?¡±


    ¡°Home,¡± I replied, longing for thefort of my own space.


    ¡°You sure you''re okay? Maybe we should swing by the hospital just in case,¡± Larkin said, concern in his


    voice.


    ¡°I''m fine, really. Just... not used to scenes like that. It was too much,¡± I exined.


    Just then, Logan''s call came through. I answered, trying to soundposed, ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Are you alright? Were you hurt?¡± His voice was tight with worry.


    I mustered a weak smile, ¡°You forget, I''m very lucky!¡±


    ¡°I''m fine too!¡± Hannah called out loudly.


    I chuckled weakly, ¡°We just had a real-life action movie scene.¡± Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    ¡°That''s good to hear. Where are you headed now?¡± He didn''t dwell on it, just asked for my next move.


    ¡°Heading home to rest. I don¡¯t feel like going anywhere else,¡± I said, still feeling shaken.


    Hannah turned to Larkin, ¡°Where did youe from to get here?¡±

 Chapter 436

    Chapter 436


    I caught Larkin''s expression shift into something odd, and pressed him for more, "What is it?"


    He hesitated before dropping the bombshell, "One of the guys who attacked you that day confessed.


    He ims he''s the one who offed Evan Dawson!"


    Hearing this, I was gobsmacked, my voice rising in disbelief, "No way! He''s lying, he''s got to be lying!


    That''s just not possible!"


    Hannah spun towards Larkin, urgent curiosity in her voice, "What does he look like?"


    "Well, he''s resembled a little of Jerome¡ªheight, build, even his penchant for loafers," Larkin detailed


    meticulously. "Plus, his story about when and where it all went down checks out, down to the nitty-gritty


    of what he said to the kid."


    "That can''t be right," I argued stubbornly. "If he killed the kid, one thing''s for sure¡ªit doesn''t add up


    how the kid would know him. Unless the kid knew him and he knew the kid, how else would the kid


    cling to his neck and not let go? And where did he pick up the kid from?"


    My questions came out in a rapid-fire as I turned to Larkin, "We''re not going home, we''re heading to


    Dalton''s!"


    Fury bubbled up inside me, "This has got to be Jerome''s y to take the heat off himself! Don''t forget,


    they''ve had plenty of days to cook up a story to feed the cops."


    "Miss, keep your cool! The police aren''t that easily fooled," Larkin tried to soothe my frayed nerves.


    "The truth will out, and until the cops have it nailed down, they can''t lift the warrant on Jerome¡ªhe''s


    still got to hide from daylight."


    "This is total baloney!" I took a deep breath to calm myself. "Any fool can see, he''s trying to flip the


    script, to exonerate the Dawson family. That means he¡¯s desperate!"


    "He probably didn''t see Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s disastering," Larkin added. "The boss has pretty


    much snapped up the shares from those stakeholders. Just onest straw to break Jan''s back."


    After a moment''s contemtion, I grabbed the phone, "Then let''s bring on thatst straw."


    Dialing Elbert, I got straight to the point, "File for divorce, Mr. Elbert. You''ve got one day. I''llpile all


    the evidence I have tonight and send it over. The day after tomorrow, I want a press conference first


    thing in the morning!"


    Next, I rang up Ronan. He answered immediately, concerncing his voice, "Allie, you okay?"


    "Did you heard about what just happened?" I asked, even though I was pretty certain he already knew.


    "Yeah. I''m gathering intel on those two dead men¡ªI¡¯m digging for evidence."


    My heart leapt¡ªhe was on the same page. Ronan had anticipated my all-in move.


    "I''m about to tighten the screws on him, make him crumblepletely. The morning after next, I will


    announce the divorce, leaving Jan with no choice!" I said fiercely.


    He understood my y¡ªto stir up the media storm and unleash havoc on Jan.


    "Alright," Ronan said firmly. "You have my full support."


    We fell into silence, the quiet between us speaking volumes. Truth be told, I had a lot to say, but with


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Ronan, silence said it all.


    After an awkward pause, Hannah shot me a questioning nce, and I blurted out to the person on the


    other end, "You... everything okay with your finances?"


    "Yeah, all good," Ronan replied softly. "Do you need cash?"


    "Not a chance," he said confidently. "Medsafe Liyah Inc. is a piece of cake."


    "Just wrap it up as fast as you can, make him vanish for good!" I instructed. Co?tent of


    Dr?manov§Öls


    A low, maic chuckle came from Ronan, "As you wish."


    But just as I was about to hang up, another thought struck me, "Wait..."

 Chapter 437

    Chapter 437


    On the other end of the line, Ronan heard my voice and coolly replied, "I''m listening!"


    Words failed me in my nervousness. "Uh... Mr. Richardson, could you, by any chance, arrange for


    someone reliable to protect my parents? I''m just worried that they might be targeted."


    I was probably overthinking it, but I couldn''t afford to be careless. Jerome and Jan were like mad


    dogs, and I feared that if Jan lost his grip on Medsafe Liyah Inc. and couldn''t cling onto our


    marriage, he''dsh out in desperation.


    His words ¡®unless you die¡¯!'' hit me like a ton of bricks, especially after everything that had just


    happened. I had to be on guard against his madness.


    "You can count on me. I''ll make sure everything is secure," Ronan said with unwavering certainty.


    "Thank you! Okay, I''ll let you go now," I whispered, feeling a rush of relief. "Your assurance is all I need


    to feel at ease."


    Back home, I quickly shifted into work mode, gathering all the dirt I had on Jan and sending it off to


    Elbert.


    At that moment, I could almost see the light at the end of the tunnel¡ªI was about to climb out of this


    mess. No more wading through the muck with the maggots.


    Just to be safe, I asked Hannah and Larkin to sweep the house for any rogue surveince devices.


    Besides the ones Logan had installed, we removed them all.


    I thought to myself, I really need to get rid of this house!


    Opening the safe in my study, I found it exactly as I suspectedpletely empty. That bastard was


    always on guard against me.


    He wanted me dead! This fact was etched into my bones. It hurt, but I wasn''t bleeding anymore.


    I vowed to myself that if he tried anything, it wasn''t like I couldn''t hit back. But even if I did, I wouldn''t let


    him die¡ªI''d make him wish he could.


    Exhausted, I eventually dozed offte into the night. Maybe it was sheer fatigue or the resolve I''d


    found, but I slept profoundly. If Geneva hadn''t called, I might have slept on.


    She wanted me toe to the hospital.


    After hanging up, I checked the time¡ªit was past nine in the morning. Definitely time to get up.


    At breakfast, Larkin was nowhere to be seen. Hannah mentioned he''d left early. I figured it was time I


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    paid Dalton a visit.


    Before heading out, I realized I was out of my meds. t worked out well, as I had to visit the hospital and


    could discuss this with Dr. Dailey.


    When I arrived, Geneva and Janice were already there. They whisked me aside, looking me over. "You


    sure you''re okay? My God, I was scared half to death!"


    Obviously, they knew about the previous day''s events.


    Iughed it off. "Do I look like I''m not okay? But yesterday, if it weren''t for Hannah being there, I¡¯d be


    dead!"


    "Allie, you''re too calm!" Janice sighed. "Who the hell did you piss off?"


    "What else can I do? Some people attract bad luck; I attract assassins. Must be karma from a past life!"


    I flopped onto the hospital sofa, my eyes on Catherine in the bed. "How are you holding up?"


    "Just a bit of pain left, and I''m still a little dizzy. Nothing serious," she said, propped up and looking


    somewhat better.


    I nced around the room. "Where''s Logan?"


    "He stepped out," Catherine replied nonchntly.


    Geneva still looked concerned. "Do you know for sure who did this?"


    I snorted. "Who else but that jerk? He''s made it clear¡ªhe won¡¯t divorce me, but he¡¯d be happy if I was


    dead."


    "When did he say that?" Geneva asked me as she eased Catherine back down.


    Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    "Talks tough at noon, makes a move by afternoon¡ªthat''s ruthless efficiency," Janice cursed. "How did


    he know you''d be on that road?"


    "He had me followed," I said with a helpless shrug. "But we''re still verifying whether the people in the


    car were his men."

 Chapter 438

    Chapter 438


    Janice looked at me with a mixture of skepticism and disbelief painted across her face. "I seriously


    can''t wrap my head around his thoughts. How stupid is he? He''s got this gorgeous, loaded wife and


    he''s not satisfied. That greedy low-life!¡±


    I was momentarily stunned, at a loss for words, and muttered under my breath, "Evil deeds will catch


    up to you, no doubt about it."


    "Don''t worry," Gevena said, looking at me with a mix of glee and concern. "The way things are going,


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. won''tst a week, I bet. I heard the Dawson¡¯s siblings fought there!"


    Perking up, I pressed for details, "What happened?"


    Gevena raised an eyebrow, a sly smile on her lips. "Do you remember that little arrangement you


    asked me to make?"


    I paused, racking my brain, and then it hit me. I pped my thigh and blurted out, "You''re not talking


    about Jessica Dawson''s mess, are you? Did she finally get caught red-handed?"


    Her eyes twinkling with mischief, Gevena pped me on the shoulder, "Bingo! That little scheme of


    yours finally fermented into a fine mess!"


    "Jessica? No way! That''s incredible timing! You''re a genius!" I was ted. "I''ve been so swamped, I


    totally forgot about setting her straight."


    "Save your energy," Gevena said with a smirk. "We''ll handle her. It''s a piece of cake for us."


    "But you should''ve seen it! Jan smacked Jesper first, and then Jesper and Jan double-teamed


    Jessica, dragging her back to the office after hours for a beatdown!"


    Janice and Catherine, seeing our animated state, were immediately hooked and demanded the juicy


    details, "What in the world happened? Don''t leave us hanging, spill it!"


    At the prospect of gossip, excitement was in their eyes, nearly glowing red with anticipation.


    Gevena turned to me, her voice filled with mischief, "Just so you know, I''ve managed to reel back in a


    few million for you. You owe me a big thank you."


    "Seriously?" I grinned ear to ear. "You know I''m good for it! Drinks are on me!"


    "Come on, spill the beans already! I''m dying here!" Catherine propped herself up in her hospital bed,


    visibly agitated with curiosity.


    Gevena eagerly began, "A month ago, Aaliyah had me set a trap for Jessica, offering her a chance to


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    make some quick cash. Naturally, I was all in. So, I set her up and, like a cheetah to the chase, she fell


    for it."


    Gevena nced at me knowingly, "She was just too thirsty for the bait."


    "What kind of scheme?" Catherine pressed on, eager for details.


    "Loan sharks, baby!" Gevena dered with flourish. "Where else can you make money that fast?"


    "Get real! That''s a quick way to end up dead," Janice retorted skeptically.


    "Maybe you''re too sharp for such tricks, but not everyone''s got your smarts," Gevena countered, "and


    for Jessica, it was too good to resist."


    "It''s the perfect cure for greed," I said with a mischievous grin.


    "At first, she was cautious, looking over her shoulder," Gevena continued. "So, I had Sophie show her


    the ropes. Sophie made ten million quickly, and just like that, she made a quick return."


    Gevena gestured animatedly as she spoke, clearly enjoying the retelling.


    "I made sure she wasn''t disappointed, and I even upped the interest rate," Gevena said with


    satisfaction.


    "Didn''t she suspect anything with those rates?" Janice asked, "It''s like picking up money off the street!"


    Updated at Dra§Þ??§àvels.c§àm


    It was only then that I realized why Jessica had such a grudge against me.


    Gevena picked up the story again, "You''re right. When she started making big sums, she couldn''t sit


    still. She cozied up to Sophie over dinner. And guess what Sophie told her?"

 Chapter 439

    Chapter 439


    All eyes turned to Geneva, her revtion dangling tantalizingly in the air. Catherine blurted out, "For


    heaven''s sake, Geneva, spill the beans already!"


    Geneva simplyughed before carrying on, "I mean, Sophie justid it out for her, in and simple.


    This was a small-scale operation, just borrowing a lump sum from the upper crust to tide things over.


    Opportunities like this don''t grow on trees, you know.¡±


    "Damn, that''s some pretty convincing talk!" Catherine snorted with disbelief.


    "There¡¯s more," Geneva said. "Sophie tells Jessica, if word gets out and people find out, they won¡¯t be


    able to keep doing it. For a businessperson, nothing''s more taboo than a broken cash flow. Quick


    turnover¡ªthat''s the name of the game. Before outsiders catch a whiff, you''ve bounced back without


    anyone seeing you ever short for cash."


    Janice was impressed. "I''ve got to hand it to Sophie; she''s got the gift of the gab." She turned to


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Geneva, "You sure you didn''t coach her?"


    "Not at all," Geneva assured her. "Sophie''s flying solo on this one! She can handle Jessica no


    problem."


    "And she does," I chuckled, "Sophie totally nailed Jessica''s Achilles'' heel!"


    Geneva nodded, "Sophie''s casual as can be, telling Jessica she couldn''t care less who''s short on cash.


    ''As long as they pay me a sweet enough interest and settle up on time, I''m golden. Why should I be


    content with pocket change when I could be making more money?


    She was convincing, and Jessica bought it. Sophie kept it real with her, like, ''Listen up, don''t say I didn''t


    warn you. Don''t get greedy. There''s risk in every investment. And who we''re dealing with here? That''s


    anybody''s guess! If things go south, don''te crying to me.''


    And she adds, ''Keep this to yourself. This is my exclusive scoop. Start yapping about it and we''ll both


    be in hot water. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Take your tidy profit and zip it. Making waves


    benefits no one. I¡¯m helping you out, so let¡¯s make money together.¡¯ ¡°


    Janice burst outughing, "I mean,e on, with a disimer like that, Jessica still bites? Does she


    even have a brain?"


    We all shared augh.


    Geneva added, "And Sophie ys the regret card, telling Jessica she just got carried away the other


    day, and that¡¯s how she told Jessica. ''Don''t contact me often. If my hubby finds out I''m doling out cash


    left and right, he''ll cut off my allowance, and then I''m toast.''"


    We were all ears, eating up the juicy gossip with augh.


    "Who knew Sophie was such a natural actress?" Janice chuckled with approval.


    I almostughed out loud; the curiosity was palpable and oddly therapeutic.


    I dismissed the thought with a sneer, "Sophie messed with Jessica¡¯s head." Content of


    Dra§Þ??ovels


    "And what happened next? She put more money down?" Catherine was eager for the oue. "How


    much this time?"

 Chapter 440

    Chapter 440


    I was sitting with Janice, both of us watching Geneva with anticipation, waiting for her to continue her


    story.


    Nodding, Geneva picked up where she had left off, "Yeah! This time Jessica went all in, she invested a


    cool ten million."


    Janice let out a derisive snort, "Pshaw! That''s chump change for her."


    But I had a hunch that there was more to the story.


    With a mischievous grin, Geneva said, "This time, I had them keep her on pins and needles for a week;


    she was scared out of her wits, thinking about the equipment funds she''d diverted. But after a week, I


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    let her recoup her investment¡ªplus an extra two and a half million."


    "Damn... that''s not too shabby! A quarter mil'' profit in a week!" Catherine eximed, "I''d kill for a deal


    like that!"


    "Easy there! There''s no such thing as a free lunch," Janice retorted with a smirk.


    "Word has it that Jessica threw avish party for the high-societydies at Avalon Funtime Resort. But


    Sophie imed she was off in the Maldives and didn''t show. Jessica was the belle of the ball that night,


    they were all calling her the ''Princess in Medsafe Liyah Inc.''! She was on cloud nine!" Geneva ryed,


    clearly enjoying the tale.


    We all burst intoughter at the absurdity of it all. "Princess in Medsafe Liyah Inc.!" I gasped between


    fits ofughter. "What kind of princess is she? More like a drama queen!"


    Ourughter filled the room as Geneva continued, wiping tears from the corners of her eyes, "But I


    heard she nearly wet herself when the bill came."


    "How much?" I asked.


    "Think about it! Those socialites don''t hold back when they see an opportunity. Why would they go


    easy on her?" Geneva said with a hint of schadenfreude.


    "How much was it? I''m dying to know," Catherine pressed, her eager face tooical for words.


    "Over a hundred and fifty thousand!" Geneva revealed.


    "That''s it? She freaked out over that?" Catherine scoffed, leaning back against her pillows dismissively,


    "That''s nothing! She got off cheap, not even enough to cover a couple of bottles of top-shelf wine."


    I shot her a look, "Don''t forget, even fifteen hundred makes her heart skip a beat, let alone a hundred


    and fifty thousand!"


    "You get her, Aaliyah," Geneva said, giving me a nod of approval before adding, "Maybe it was that


    sting of losing the hundred fifty grand that got to her. She''s been scrambling to get it back ever since.


    But she hasn''t had a chance since."


    "Were you behind this?" Janice asked with a sly grin.


    "Life''s not always a bowl of cherries," Geneva replied dismissively. "After that, Jessica''s been like a cat


    on a hot tin roof, constantly calling Sophie. Sophie told her that no one needed moneytely, times


    were tight. She even said their go-between had some issues and was unreachable."


    "But Sophie''s been on a shopping spree in LA, snagging new bags and outfits, making Jessica green


    with envy. She thought Sophie was icing her out, which really ticked her off. But she still kept up the


    sweet talk, ttering Sophie, buying her gifts. And guess what Jessica got for Sophie?"


    In unison, we all demanded, "What?"


    Geneva burst intoughter, and we all watched her, curiosity killing us.


    "Come on!" Catherine sat up straight, craning her neck eagerly.


    "She got Sophie... ha-ha-ha... a pair of Spanx for like, what, $28!" Geneva finally managed between


    We all roared withughter, picturing Sophie''s ample figure and the gift.


    "Catherine, you''re a riot, you know that? What a steal!" I said, shaking my head in amusement. Co?tent


    §àf


    "Exactly," Janice chimed in, "Sophie hated when people call her fat!"

 Chapter 441

    Chapter 441


    "Looks like she can kiss her friendship with Sophie goodbye!" Janice said with a chuckle, shaking her


    head in disbelief. "Oh my god! This is the funniest thing I''ve heard all year! I haven''tughed this hard


    in ages! Hanging out with you guys is like it''s Christmas every day!"


    "You really think Jessica had a chance in hell of keeping in touch with Sophie?" Geneva piped in, her


    tone dripping with derision. "Sophie never really liked her to begin with. If it wasn''t for that favor she


    owed me, she wouldn''t have given Jessica the time of day. But I gotta hand it to Sophie, she nailed the


    job."


    "Spill it, what happened next?" I urged, eager for more gossip.


    "Well, Sophie just started giving her the cold shoulder. Jessica was like a cat on a hot tin roof, she was


    anxious." Geneva recounted with such vivid detail, you''d think she was watching a live show.


    "I see... No wonder she was ignoring her mom''s injury, all frazzled and fuming!" It suddenly clicked why


    Jessica was so restless and hot-tempered when Hazel got burned the other day.


    "Exactly! She wasshing out at everyone, like a rooster that''s had its feathers ruffled, always ready to


    scrap!" Geneva continued with a sneer. "One day at the office, Jesper pped her across the face. She


    stomped her foot and stormed out."


    "Why?" I asked, intrigued.


    Geneva raised an eyebrow and I quickly added, "Was it because of that embezzled ten million?"


    "Yep! But when Jesper mentioned hiring a new finance director, she came back, apologizing and taking


    her lumps. Jesperid it out for her clear as day, saying if she so much as touched thepany''s


    money again, she''d be out on her ear!"


    "How did Jesper find out about Jessica dipping into thepany funds?" I inquired.


    "She dyed a supplier''s payment, only five dayste, but I always nail the tasks you give me."


    Geneva gave a mock salute, which made me chuckle.


    "You told me to make her life a living hell, right? So I deliberately held off those five days to give her a


    taste of purgatory. Only after I returned her investment with interest did she hustle to pay the supplier.


    Then I had the supplier casually drop the hint to Jesper, and Jesper is not dumb; he checked the


    ounts and everything clicked." Geneva spread her hands, a self-satisfied smile on her face.


    I had to admire it; Geneva was a real ace up my sleeve.


    "Reminds me, that call you made about the supplier... was it regarding Jessica''s dyed payment?" I


    pressed.


    "That''s the one! You were in Silverdale City at the time, so I didn''t borate, just took the initiative,"


    Geneva exined.


    I gave her a thumbs-up. "Brilliant!"


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Jesper warned her sternly not to let it happen again. But you know how it is, sometimes pressure just


    makes people more rebellious. The tighter you squeeze, the more they want to slip through your


    fingers. Jessica got a taste for easy money, and she was itching for more."


    A thought struck me, "Does she know this contact?"


    Geneva shook her head. "No way I''d let her meet him. She tried to get Sophie to introduce them, but


    Sophie brushed her off, saying it wasn''t necessary as they weren''t close. New ch?pter av?ble o?


    Jessica didn¡¯t believe it, of course, and she contacted him.


    I couldn''t help but smirk like the cat that got the cream, imagining Jan in a frenzy. "I made sure his


    fires kept burning."

 Chapter 442

    Chapter 442


    Catherine looked over at me with a mix of exhaustion and exasperation. "You got any more tricks up


    your sleeve to torment him?"


    I couldn''t help but smirk, relishing the thought of my little revenge. "Let''s just say, I n to hit him where


    it hurts. Looks like I''m due for a trip to Medsafe Liyah Inc."


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    Catherine slumped back against her pillows, a defeated look in her eyes. "If I were in any shape to, I''d


    go with you in a heartbeat."


    I teased her, mustering my most serious tone. "You look fit as a fiddle to me!"


    She squinted at me, confused. "What do you mean?"


    "When you were gossiping, you were as lively as ever. Doesn''t look like you''re sick at all. If you''re well,


    stop ying the patient and get back out there!"


    "Aaliyah, seriously! I don''t even know what to say to you!" Catherine huffed, her frustration clear as day.


    Geneva, Janice, and Hannah allughed. Raising from my seat, I said, "Carry on the gossip, you guys.


    I need to check with Dr. Dailey about my prescription."


    Hannah quickly got up to join me, and together, we headed out.


    Geneva called out from behind, "Are youing backter? Should we wait for you?"


    "Just leave after Logan gets here!" I dodged her question, notmitting to a return, because I


    honestly wasn''t sure myself.


    After leaving Dr. Dailey''s office, I nced at the time and found myself in an awkward spot. It was too


    Catherine''s room, thinking maybe we could all grab a bite together.


    As fate would have it, right as we passed through the hospital lobby, I ran into Zora, whom I hadn''t


    seen in ages.


    She did a double-take when she saw me but quickly regained herposure and strutted over.


    Hannah couldn''t resist a jab. "Look, isn''t that the Dawsons¡¯pdog? Shouldn''t she be on a leash?"


    I burst outughing, unable to contain myself. "You''re terrible!"


    Zora, clueless to our banter, approached with a sneer. "Well, well, Mrs. High-and-Mighty. It''s been a


    while! What''s so funny? You should watch out for your reputation."


    I smiled sweetly at her, feigning ignorance. "What do you mean?"


    "You know,ughing it up while your dear mother-inw is gravely ill. Not a good look in public, darling,"


    she said, aiming to wipe the smile off my face.


    I put on an innocent face, ying dumb. "What? Whose mother-inw?"


    She stared at me, a hint of smugness in her tone. "Yours, of course. Didn''t you know?"


    "Oh?" I feigned shock, pressing for details. "Hazel is ill? And you''re the bearer of this news?"


    Zora''s face fell, but she quickly masked it with a smirk. "Obviously, I''m aware. Jan can''t be in two


    ces at once; someone has to take care of her."


    She look proud as she scrutinized my reaction, eager to see me lose my cool.


    Hannah let another snide remark slip. "Oh, so you''ve shifted from nanny to nurse now, have you? Good


    for you. Versatility pays, doesn''t it?"


    Zora fumed, turning sharply to Hannah with a re.


    I chided Hannah with mock seriousness. "Mind your manners."


    Zora looked cornered, her face a mix of irritation and disbelief. "If you''ve been so indifferent all this


    time, why bother now? Your pretense of concern is unwee here." Co?tent belo?gs to


    Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Brushing past her, I dered confidently, "But now that I''ve been informed, it''d be rude not to pay a


    visit, wouldn''t it? Lead the way, Zora."


    With that, Hannah and I sauntered off toward the ward, leaving Zora behind. A smile crept onto my


    face. I was, indeed, quite interested in seeing Hazel''s current state.

 Chapter 443

    Chapter 443


    As I stood my ground, Zora began to unravel. I was certain that before her arrival, Jan had strictly


    instructed her to keep Hazel¡¯s illness a secret from me.


    Now that I was adamant about visiting Hazel, Zora was ovee with panic; this was sure to


    displease Jan. She desperately tried to stop me, but Hannah, with her phone out and recording,


    teased Zora with a smirk, "I''ll upload this video right away if you try to stop us. How about ''Dismissed


    Nanny Caught in Hospital Obstructing Legal Wife from Visiting Sick Mother-inw''? Guess who''ll be


    the talk of the town?"


    Fuming, Zora stomped her foot, stuttering without managing toplete her sentence. Unable to


    prevent us from entering, she panicked and dialed out on her phone.


    I couldn''t care less about whom she was calling; I marched straight toward Hazel¡¯s ward.


    Upon entering, the first sight that hit me was Hazel, lying on the bed like a lifeless figure. Her once


    plump figure was now worryingly gaunt, and everything from her chest down, along with her arms, was


    wrapped in bandages.


    Half-lying on the couch was Farley, whose snores were audible from the doorway.


    Startled by the sound of footsteps, he blinked open his drowsy eyes, taking a moment to recognize me


    as I approached.


    I had already reached the bedside. Hazel must have been dozing off before I came in; she now opened


    her eyes listlessly.


    Only up close did I notice the bandages dotted with spots of yellowish fluid, indicating her condition was


    still quite serious.


    When our eyes met, her pupils instinctively contracted, and her expression tensed with rm as she


    gazed at me.


    I offered a gentle smile, greeting, "Hazel!"


    Hearing my voice, Hazel stared nkly for a moment, her gaze then shifting warily to the phone in


    Hannah¡¯s hand.


    Honestly, if she weren''t Hazel, I''d actually pity her. In just a couple of weeks, she had withered away,


    her eyes hollowed, stripped of her former domineering aura.


    By now, Farley had fully woken up and charged at me, "You bitch, what are you doing here? Get out!"


    Hannah immediately turned her phone¡¯s camera towards his contorted face, capturing his ugly


    expression.


    "What are you doing? Put that down... Put it down!¡± Farley shouted, neck outstretched towards


    Hannah, but he dared note any closer; he knew what Hannah was capable of.


    I ignored his rabid barking.


    Surprisingly, Hazel kept her eyes on me, though it was clear she no longer possessed any of her


    former ferocity. Her face was now gaunt, cheeks hollowed out, unrecognizable. She attempted a smile,


    but no sound emerged.


    Without any malice, I softly asked, "Are you alright?"


    Faced with her severe illness, I couldn''t bring myself to be heartless, my upbringing reminding me that I


    was not the same kind of people like her.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Unexpectedly, Hazel¡¯s eyes misted over at my question, and she tried to lift her bandaged right hand.


    We simply looked at each other until she finally spoke in a weak voice, "I have money... use my


    money..."


    She couldn''t finish her sentence, tears blurring her vision. Just then, Zora burst into the room, seeing


    me by Hazel¡¯s bed, she bellowed, "Aaliyah, Jan said, get out!"


    But as soon as she finished shouting, she realized Hannah¡¯s phone was still recording and mped


    her mouth shut.


    I continued to gaze at Hazel, unbothered by Zora''s entrance, and guessed what Hazel wanted to say.


    "Go on... I''m listening," I encouraged her.


    "Help me... for Evan..." Hazel closed her eyes, creases wet with tears.


    "Evan?" I probed further.


    After scrutinizing me for a moment, she finally spoke, "...Help me get him... a grave." Updated at


    Dra§Þ??§àvels.c§àm


    I nodded without hesitation, "Alright."


    I paused, then reached under her pillow, feeling a hard object. I pulled it out.

 Chapter 444

    Chapter 444


    I pulled out the object to find it was a small wallet.


    shing it to her, she nodded. "Keep it. Use the money to..."


    Just then, Zora stepped forward, "Aaliyah, what on earth are you trying to do? Why are you taking her


    things? We don''t wee you here, Jan..."


    Hazel''s gaze suddenly sharpened, and she uttered clearly, "Get out!"


    I gave Zora a contemptuous nce and then turned to Farley, who had been noisy earlier but now


    remained silent, likely having understood Hazel''s words.


    "Do you need anything else from me?" I asked Hazel.


    Her face was a mask of confusion and sorrow as she shook her head, her eyes brimming with


    sadness.


    Ignoring Zora, I leaned in and whispered something in Hazel''s ear, then stood up to face her.


    Hazel''s expression wasplex as she looked into my eyes, slowly turning towards Zora.


    I raised the wallet, "Consider it done, after all, we were once family. I''ll take my leave then!"


    With that, I turned and walked out with Hannah by my side.


    Zora, not ready to let it go, chased after us, blocking my path. "What did you tell Hazel?"


    I smirked at her, arching an eyebrow. "Take a guess?"


    "Aaliyah!" Zora''s eyes were aze with frustration, her gaze then falling on the wallet in my hand. "You


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    can''t take Hazel¡¯s things!"


    I shrugged. "Hazel asked me to buy Evan a cemetery plot. Or maybe... you''d like the honor?"


    "I insist, you take on this task. After all, it was you who took the child out, and he never came back. It''s


    only right that you finish what you started. Here, take it!"


    I pushed the insignificant wallet towards her.


    Zora recoiled as if it were tainted, stepping back with fury in her eyes. "Take that away!"


    I chuckled coldly. "You should feel honored to care for Jan¡¯s mother. It''s quite an achievement for


    you!"


    "Stop your nonsense, I''m not a mistress!" Zora growled fiercely.


    "Not a mistress, yet you shared a bed with Jan every night!" Hannah shot back. "Need proof to


    confirm it?"


    Zora, unable to contain her rage, lunged for Hannah''s phone. But she was no match for Hannah, who


    spun away gracefully, causing Zora to stumble into her. The impact, intensified by Hannah''s intentional


    shoulder-bump, sent Zora reeling back. Co?tent belo?gs to Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    I nced down, drawn to the phone''s screensaver...

 Chapter 445

    Chapter 445


    It was a shock that hit me like a freight train¡ªthe wallpaper on Zora''s phone was a picture of my son,


    Carl. Anger coursed through me as I bent to grab her phone, but Zora was quicker.


    She lunged forward, shoving me aside, then snatched up her phone with a look of panic flickering in


    her eyes.


    I steadied myself and demanded with an outstretched hand, "Give me that phone!"


    Zora clutched the phone behind her back and began to back away, retorting, "Why should I give you


    my phone?"


    My voice was stern,ced with controlled fury. "If it''s your phone, why on earth does it have a photo of


    my son on it?"


    She shifted her gaze, defiantly snapping back, "I raised that kid since he was a baby. Can''t I keep a


    snapshot?"


    "No!" I cut her off decisively. "Delete it!"


    A wave of disgust washed over me. The thought of her holding onto a photo of my son was just


    revolting.


    Zora stiffened her neck, grinning wickedly. "What if I don''t? What can you do¡ª"


    Before she could finish, Hannah had stealthily moved behind Zora and swiped the phone with a swift


    motion.


    Zora was truly frantic now, lunging for the phone in Hannah''s grasp. "What are you doing? Give it...


    give it to me!"


    A deep growl echoed through the hallway, "What the hell is going on here?"


    The noise brought a sudden silence. Zora and Hannah instantly became still. Hannah held the phone


    aloft, her gaze turning toward the source of the voice with disdain.


    I didn''t need to look to know who had arrived; the voice was all too familiar.


    Desperate, Zora cried out, "Jan!"


    I scoffed and turned nonchntly to see Jan approaching, his face set in a cold frown.


    He nced at me, then turned his re to Zora, his voice icy and sharp. "I sent you here to take care


    of my mother. What''s all this ruckus about?"


    Zora looked at Jan, confused and defiant, and pointed at the phone in Hannah''s raised hand, her


    face flushed with urgency. "She took my phone!"


    Hearing Zora¡¯s words, his gaze fell on Hannah.


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    "Why did you take her phone? This is not a yground for your antics!"


    I had been silent, observing, but now I spoke up coldly, "Maybe you should ask why she has Carl''s


    photos on her phone? She''s no longer our nanny, so why keep his pictures? Is it wrong for me to want


    her to delete photos of my kid?"


    Jan''s eyes bore into Zora as he growled, "I made it clear that your job was to care for my mother, not


    to cause trouble. What have you done?"


    Jan roared, "Delete it! Now!"


    "And the ones in your photo album!" Imanded without a hint of doubt. Content of


    Dra§Þ??ovels


    With a sour look, she nced at Jan, who roared again, "Delete it!"


    Jan''s anger red as he pointed to the door. "Go back to where you belong!"

 Chapter 446

    Chapter 446


    Zora shot me a re sharp enough to slice through steel before storming back to the ward.


    Jan shot me a sidelong nce and began to exin in a hushed tone, "I couldn''t find anyone on


    short notice, so she stepped in to look after my mom."


    I cursed silently. What did I care?


    But I forced a smile, all sweetness and light. "That''s wonderful! She''s perfect for the job!"


    No sooner had words left my mouth than my phone chirped. A quick nce told me it was Ronan


    calling. I excused myself and stepped away, Jan calling after me, "Allie..."


    Not missing a beat, I continued to walk away.


    I answered the call and heard Ronan¡¯s voice, "Aaliyah!"


    "Yes?"


    "Addrion and I have justnded in Goldenvale Town," Ronan''s voice was irresistibly charming.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    "Oh?" I gasped, a surge of joy flooding me. Addrion wasing home atst. But out of the corner of


    my eye, I saw Jan still watching me, so I reined in my excitement and asked nonchntly, "Back


    already?"


    Ronan detected the off-note in my voice. "Bad timing? We''ll talkter then."


    "Sure! Text me where you''re staying," I said, and he agreed before hanging up.


    I wondered if this time, Addrion would trulye home.


    "Allie..." Another soft call.


    I nced back to see Jan approaching, his tone uncharacteristically gentle. "Look, Allie... about


    what I said yesterday, I was heated. Forgive me. Let''s sit down somewhere calm and talk it over,


    okay?"


    I gave him a knowing smile. "Your actions speak louder than any talk. We''ll discuss this tomorrow."


    With that, I shot Hannah a look and strode away.


    Jan probably misunderstood my words and chased after me, "Tomorrow, then. I''ll be waiting for you,


    Allie. Think it over."


    I chuckled to myself, mentally snide. Let him wait. He''d get his answer.


    Hannah caught my contented expression and teased, "Tomorrow for sure." She then asked, "Are we


    heading back to Cathy''s?"


    "No, let''s grab a bite and check out some houses. I need a safe ce to stay ASAP. It''s not safe here,


    and frankly, it''s filthy." I shared my thoughts with Hannah as we walked.


    And then, with a bit of urgency, I added, "Help me look for a secure location. A detached house,


    something with space between neighbors, and a good-sized property. I''ve got three kids to think


    about."


    "You got it!" Hannah replied, already speeding up toward our next destination.


    I sat there, lost in thought, idly ying with the wallet Hazel had given me. It was a small, weathered LV


    cardholder, clearly many years old.


    Hannah nced at the wallet and remarked casually, "Never thought Hazel would actually do this.


    Guess she really does adore Evan!"


    I looked down at the wallet in my hand, replying tly, "Not necessarily. Her heart isn''t truly with


    anyone. It''s guilt and fear. That burn scare must''ve really shaken her up."


    Hannah chuckled. "Exactly. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have freaked out over her grandson''s death. Did


    you see her face that day? Unless she''s incredibly slow on the uptake..."


    "No wonder she gave you her money to take care of it," Hannah said.


    I unzipped the wallet to find a bank card and a tiny notebook inside.


    Her grip was tight, but now, she had let go. It was as if the old saying was true ¨C the dying be


    kind. I couldn''t help but smirk. Co?tent §àf Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    Curious, Hannah inquired, "What''s so funny?"


    "I''m amazed Hazel trusted me with her money. She must know her time is short." After a beat, I added,


    "Not that I¡¯m wishing it on her!"


    Hannah burst intoughter. "Why exin? If she goes, no great loss."


    With a sigh, I attempted to zip up the wallet and identally brushed against something hard inside.

 Chapter 447

    Chapter 447


    I was taken aback, wondering why I hadn''t noticed anything solid when I first looked inside it.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Squeezing the fabric again, I reopened the wallet to double-check, but this time, nothing was there.


    Hannah nced at me, "What are you looking for?"


    "It feels like there''s something else in here!" I said, continuing to probe. Whatever it was, it was


    definitely real.


    I picked up the wallet, carefully inspecting the edges, and found a spot with stitches that seemed out of


    ce.


    This piqued my curiosity even further. A Louis Vuitton with DIY stitching? Definitely fishy.


    I quickly examined the wallet more closely, catching a loose thread with my fingernail and pulling it out.


    A small opening appeared.


    Excited, I slipped my fingers inside and felt around, touching what seemed to be a key.


    "What''s that?" Hannah asked, intrigued.


    "It''s a key!" I said confidently.


    I turned the wallet upside down and shook the contents from the small opening.


    Sure enough, a key fell out! I picked it up hurriedly. It wasn''trge, a cruciform key with intricate


    craftsmanship, which I turned over in my hands, admiring.


    The key was engraved with a pattern on one side, and on the other, there were several numbers.


    Baffled, I showed it to Hannah, "What do you think this key is for?"


    Hannah nced at it briefly and shrugged, "Hard to say, but it looks rather fancy! Where''d you find it?"


    "It was hidden in the wallet!" I exined, cing the key on myp and looking back at the hidden slit.


    It was too small to see inside clearly, but I could feel there was more.


    Muttering to myself, I said, "What''s the olddy up to, hiding things in her wallet?"


    Seeing me still searching, Hannah teased with augh, "Could be Hazel''s secret saving, huh?"


    I snorted withughter at her guess, "Her secret saving? Why would she leave that to me?"


    "Exactly!" Hannah nodded, half-seriously, "If it was her own saving, she wouldn''t hand it over. Hazel is


    quite the penny pincher! Clinging to every penny she can, she would never willingly give anyone her


    money."


    "Tell me about it! Hazel''s life could be split into two contrasting halves: one spent frugally, the other in


    luxury. She''s always had a thing for hoarding cash, especially mine."


    Hannah snickered, "They treat you like a bank!"


    "Exactly," I agreed, chuckling, "She hits up Jan for money with no shame, won¡¯t even speak unless


    it¡¯s six figures. Even Marissa gets sick of it, they had a fight over it once."


    Hannah looked at me incredulously, "And you''re the legitimate one not bothered, while the mistress is


    throwing a fit?"


    "It seems like today''s mistresses all graduated from the same academy, even their sybus seems the


    same!" I joked.


    Hannah asked, puzzled, "How so?"


    "They all believe that men''s money ought to be theirs! No one else should have a im on it. How to


    milk a man''s bank ount is their core curriculum!


    So, they guard the man''s money fiercely! Think about it, would they cozy up to him if he wasn''t loaded?


    It''s his spending power they''re after!"


    "But Jan''s broke, and what he does is also shady." Hannah said, her indignation palpable.


    While chatting with Hannah, I pulled out a tiny Ziplock bag from the wallet, containing a small piece of


    paper.


    I furrowed my brows, skeptical, and showed it to Hannah, "What''s Hazel ying at?"


    to Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    She handed it back to me, puzzled, "This looks like a password or something!"


    Her words struck a chord with me. I read the numbers aloud, thinking they indeed resembled a


    password.


    My mind racing, I murmured, "Could it really be a password? But what could it unlock?"

 Chapter 448

    Chapter 448


    Hannah prodded with a hint of confusion in her voice, ¡°If this is the password, then what¡¯s the key for?


    It can¡¯t actually be part of the set, right?¡±


    I picked up the key again, and it suddenly dawned on me¡ªit was just like the key Jta had been


    meaning to give to Janice. Without hesitation, I dialed Janice¡¯s number, and she picked up immediately.


    ¡°Allie, you¡¯re noting back?¡± Janice¡¯s voice came through, tinged with concern.


    ¡°Nope! I¡¯m out of the hospital and I¡¯ve got things to handle!¡± I quickly rified, then dove right into my


    question. ¡°Janice, remember when your sister woke up, she mentioned a key she wanted to give you?


    Did you ever find out what it was for?¡±


    Janice answered, ¡°It¡¯s for a safety deposit box at the bank!¡±


    I looked down at the key in my hand, my heart skipping in realization.


    ¡°What¡¯s got you asking about this, Allie? Any news from Logan?¡± Janice¡¯s query snapped me back to


    the conversation.


    ¡°No! That¡¯s not it,¡± I denied hastily, unsure of how to proceed.


    ¡°By the way, I haven¡¯t checked in with Logan yet. How¡¯s the investigation going? I¡¯ve felt awkward


    asking. Could you do it for me?¡± Janice asked, seizing the opportunity.


    ¡°Sure, no problem! You¡¯re not at the hospital?¡± I inquired casually.


    ¡°I just left!¡± Janice replied, ¡°I need to rush home to feed my kid! Geneva¡¯s still there, waiting for Logan


    to return.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± I murmured absentmindedly, then asked, ¡°So¡­Janice, what¡¯s needed to ess the safety


    deposit box at the bank?¡±


    ¡°ID, the password, and the key!¡± she answered quickly.


    I nced down at the items in my hand and then shared a triumphant look with Hannah.


    Holy smokes! Everything¡¯s here!


    Hannah looked back at me with disbelief, her voice filled with excitement, ¡°Allie, Hazel must¡¯ve lost her


    marbles, I swear... she¡­¡±


    I cut the conversation short with Janice, ¡°You better head back then. I¡¯ve got to go!¡±


    After hanging up, I pondered for a moment, examining the items once more.


    Hannah still seemed incredulous, ¡°Allie¡­?¡±


    I instructed her firmly, ¡°Let¡¯s go to Epoch za!¡±


    Without a word, Hannah turned up the car and we sped toward Epoch za.


    I chose Epoch za because it was the hub for major banks, each vying for a piece of the territory


    there.


    Upon arrival, Hannah looked at me, ¡°We don¡¯t know which bank it is. Where should we start?¡±


    I hesitated, then noticed the Blue Summit Bank logo on the card and decisively told Hannah, ¡°To Blue


    Summit Bank!¡±


    Once there, before I could even approach the front desk, a receptionist with a grace smiled inquired


    about our business. I confidently exined our purpose, and she warmly gestured for us to follow her.


    She led us down a hallway to a ss door, asking for the bank card. I calmly handed it over, she


    swiped it, and the door opened with a soft ¡®beep¡¯. A weight lifted off my shoulders.


    The receptionist handed back my card and motioned inside, ¡°This way, please.¡±


    I gave her a polite smile and entered with Hannah, the door closing silently behind us.


    A bit taken aback, I nced at Hannah, who also stuck out her tongue, muttering under her breath,


    "Well, that was easy!" (Please note, this scenario is entirely fictitious.)


    ¡°What¡¯s the n? There¡¯s so many, how do we find it?¡± Hannah scanned the room.


    I pulled out the key and read the number etched on it, ¡°0149.¡±


    With the number as our guide, we quickly located box 0149.


    The excitement was palpable as I punched in the code from the note, my palms sweating on thest


    digit.


    The lock beeped open without drama. Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    We opened the door, and there was a metal box inside.


    ¡°Pull it out!¡± Hannah hinted from behind.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    I noticed a hidden handle to the left of the box, gave it a tug, and out it came.

 Chapter 449

    Chapter 449


    I sighed with a blend of pride and disbelief. Everything had been going so smoothly, it felt like I was


    living a dream. And who would have thought? An impromptu visit to Hazel led to this surprise


    discovery.


    I couldn''t help but snicker to myself. It seemed that, in the end, a little kindness did pay off.


    Hannah, on the other hand, was buzzing like a bee at a pic, prodding me to hurry up. "Allie, stop


    gawking and open it already! Let''s see what treasures Hazel was keeping in here," she chirped with a


    mix of impatience and curiosity.


    Truth be told, my curiosity was off the charts too.


    I quickly fished out the key and opened the long metal box thaty before us.


    As the lid flipped back, Hannah and I both peered inside, our faces inches apart. But there wasn¡¯t


    anything shocking inside.


    Though the cab might look modest, the box had more space inside than one would expect.


    The contents were sparse, giving off a somewhat meager impression.


    I reached in and began to pull out the items one by one. First toe out was a set of emerald


    bracelets, glinting beautifully.


    I recognized these instantly. They were a gift from a factory owner when I had given birth to Probert.


    Hazel had been over the moon, her eyes practically popping out of her head with excitement. At the


    time, she was more thrilled about the bracelets than seeing her first grandson.


    The Dawson family had an old-fashioned preference for boys, and Probert''s birth had filled Farley and


    Hazel with joy, their faces blooming like roses in May.


    But Hazel''s daily visits under the pretense of helping me through the postnatal period were clearly


    motivated by her desire for the bracelets. I knew her game.


    Once the baby was a month old, Jan, ever the smooth-talker, had hinted more than once that his


    mother had worked hard her whole life without a single piece of decent jewelry, and how she fancied


    gems above all else.


    I yed dumb for a while, but ultimately, on Hazel''s sixtieth birthday, the bracelets ended up in her


    hands.


    Also nestled amongst the items was a coordinated set of emerald pieces ¡ª a sophisticated ne,


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    earrings, and a stunning ring ¡ª all in that signature emerald hue that Hazel favored. Safe to say, I was


    the one who shelled out for these luxurious adornments.


    Then there were several gold jewelry sets, some gems, a diamond brooch, and five gold bars...


    Hannah clicked her tongue twice in awe. "Looks like her life savings are all here!"


    "Most of these are mine!" I scoffed with a wry smile. "The valuables are definitely here!"


    But what really caught my eye was a gold jewelry set tucked into a separatepartment on the other


    side of the box.


    A tiny, exquisitely crafted gold ne with a unicorn charm, a baby bracelet, and an anklet, each


    piece adorned with little gold bells that tinkled crisply when I gave them a shake.


    A strange feeling washed over me as I handled them.


    Hannah leaned in closer. "Aren''t these baby items?"


    "If memory serves, these were gifts from Hazel and Farley for their second grandson, Carl. So she


    saved these too?" I mused, staring at the trinkets in my hand.


    Hannah couldn''t resist a jab. "Talk about a penny-pincher¡ªtaking back gifts she gave away. She''s got


    more tricks than a carnival con artist!"


    "I bet this set cost a pretty penny back in the day!" I quipped.


    Everything wasid out before us.


    Hannah looked a bit deted. "Is this it? All this fuss for this?"


    "To her, these are substantial," I exined. "She probably kept some trinkets on hand for everyday use,


    but these are the real valuables, which is why she stored them here. Keeping them at home would be


    risky¡ªboth Farley and Jessica are threats. Farley because of his spending habits, and Jessica... well,


    she''s light-fingered. If she sees an opportunity, she''ll take it without a second thought!" New ch?pter


    av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Hannah rolled her eyes. "They are indeed family..."


    Hannah nced at the box then at me, her expression questioning. "So what do we do with all this?"


    I gazed at the box, pondering the same question. Indeed, what should I do?

 Chapter 450

    Chapter 450


    As Hannah''s question hung in the air, I mulled over what to do.


    Staring at the pile of items, I couldn''t help but think Hazel must have forgotten she had these tucked


    away in her purse.


    If she ever remembered, it would scare the living daylights out of her.


    With her character of valuing money as much as life, if she realizes that she has entrusted the location


    of her treasured possessions to me, she could even leap out of her sickbed toe after me.


    Not that I''m scared of her, but I do feel a pang of guilt going up against an elderlydy.


    Hannah eyed me intently, "Allie, what are you thinking? You''re not considering giving it all back, are


    you?"


    I let out a halfugh, and Hannah stamped her foot, "Come on, don''t you go soft on her. That old


    woman, has she ever done a single nice thing for you?"


    I shot her a nce and drawled, "You''re right, of course, but..."


    I paused to ponder, and Hannah immediately pressed, "But what?"


    "But, we can''t keep it here any longer!" I said, looking at her. "We need to move it to another bank."


    Hannah snapped her fingers and raised an eyebrow, "Smart move!"


    Without further ado, Hannah and I packed up the items and went to handle the storage unit''s


    cancetion. With Hazel''s ID in my possession, I was effectively the proxy, and the process was


    smooth.


    Before leaving, I double-checked the Hazel¡¯s bank card. To my amazement, it had a hefty bnce.


    I was baffled. Was Hazel really that confused? This had to be all she owned. Why would she just hand


    it over to me? Her action was truly beyond myprehension.


    I recalled the look in her eyes when she handed me the stuff at the hospital. I really couldn''t grasp her


    meaning when she insisted, "Take it, it''s yours! Use the money..."


    I knew she meant for me to use the money to buy Evan a grave, but what about ''take it''? Especially


    since she included her ID. She had to be aware of that, right?


    When she saw me with the wallet, her expression seemed relieved.


    Hannah noticed me zoning out at the ATM and came over, "Allie, what''s up?"


    I quickly snapped back to reality, murmuring, "Just puzzled by Hazel¡¯s intention. Can''t wrap my head


    around it."


    "Why overthink it? Whether it''s a mistake or a sudden rity, the oue''s good! The stuff''s back in


    our hands, as if by divine intervention!"


    Hannah''s perspective eased my worries.


    Iughed, "You''re absolutely right! Providence is on our side!"


    "Then let''s go, I''m starving!" Hannah eximed.


    Only then did I realize we''d missed our lunch in the hustle.


    We stepped out of Blue Summit Bank feeling lighter, and Hannah chuckled, "Feels like we''ve just


    struck gold, doesn''t it?"


    "It''s not all true; most of it was mine to begin with!" I retorted.


    "Fair enough! If Hazel realizes what she did, do you think she''ll be fuming?" Hannah queried, "Shall we


    head to another bank now?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    "Good point," I agreed, cing everything back in its original order. New ch?pter av?ble o?


    Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Once done, Hannah and I found a cozy restaurant to satisfy our hunger.


    Instead, Hannah and I decided to house hunt. We checked out a couple of properties but didn''t find


    anything good.


    Resigning ourselves to heading home early, we''d barely walked through the door when Jessica''s frantic


    call came through, her voice a cacophony of rage as I answered...

 Chapter 451

    Chapter 451


    The moment I answered the call, Jessica''s furious shouts sted through the speaker, "Aaliyah


    Wilburn, what the heck did you take from my mom?"


    I scrunched my brows and stretched the phone away, hitting speaker mode and tossing it onto the


    couch. Then, I lounged back, biting into an apple with a crisp snap, while Jessica ranted like a tempest


    on the other end.


    "What gives you the right to take my mom''s stuff? What are you trying to do? I''m telling you, Aaliyah,


    you better bring it back or this isn''t over¡­"


    "Oh yeah? And how''s it not gonna be over?" I replied coolly, lounging there, taking another crunchy bite


    of my apple. "Spell it out for me, I''m all ears!"


    "Aaliyah, you damn..." Jessica was practically choking on her rage, cursing up a storm!


    I shot back, unfazed, "Look who''s talking! Jessica, you''ve been dipping into my Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s


    funds, and I haven''t evene after you yet. And here you are questioning me. Are you asking for


    trouble?"


    "You''re full of it, you... you tramp..."


    "Tramp? Seems you''re confusing me with someone else. How about I shoot a text to Palmer and we


    see who the real tramp is?" I quipped with a smirk. "Girl, I''ve got some juicy details that would make


    Palmer serve you on a silver tter!"


    Silence fell on the other end of the line, and I chuckled at her reaction.


    "And another thing, you''re a real piece of work, you know? You''ve been making bank and I haven''t


    evene for my cut. And you have the nerve toe at me? Are you even aware that as a financial


    director, swipingpany cash for yourself, especially a cool thirty million, is serious crime?"


    I pressed her hard, then continued, "How about I just call the cops right now, give them a heads-up?


    You''re at the hospital, right? Hang tight, I''ll make the call. Won''t take more than ten minutes before they


    "Aaliyah..." Jessica''s voice quivered.


    "I''m here. Now talk nice, no need for all that yelling."


    The line went dead silent again.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    I kept munching on my apple,id-back, and said, "Who told you I took Hazel''s stuff? Do you even


    know what it was? Tell me!"


    I was testing Jessica now.


    "What does it matter who told me? Just answer the question, did you take it or not?" Jessica barked


    back, though much of her fire had died down.


    "I did!" I boldly admitted, "Hazel asked me to purchase a burial plot for Evan!"


    "Why the hell should he get a burial plot? What''s he to her that the Dawson family should buy him a


    plot?" Predictably, Jessica spat venomously.


    "Whoa there! You shouldn''t talk like that. You dare speak so recklessly when you saw what happened


    to your mom, getting burned out of nowhere?"


    I relished her difort, "Better watch your mouth! Evan was wronged, he''s got some heavy


    grievances! Keep spouting nonsense and you might jinx yourself. Don''t say I didn''t warn you!"


    As I continued to savor the apple, I called out, "Hey Hannah, this apple is sweet. Make sure we get


    more of these next time!"


    "You got it!" came Hannah''s voice from the other end.


    Jessica had no filter on her rage, and I couldn''t help butugh at her bluntness.


    Quick as a sh, I retorted, "As to whose kid he really is, asking me won''t do you any good. You should


    be grilling your two brothers; they ought to know, right? Oh... and if they can''t figure it out themselves,


    you should ask the very person who told you about this. Co?tent belo?gs to Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Iid it out, confident in my assumptions. I was sure Zora was right there with Jessica. With Jessica''s


    sour temper, once Zora spilled the beans, she''d be lighting up my phone in no time.


    And sure enough, suddenly from the other end of the phone came a sharp ''snap''...

 Chapter 452

    Chapter 452


    I chuckled at themotion, shaking my head withughter, thinking, "Zora, you just love stirring the


    pot, acting like you''repletely innocent."


    Then, from the other end of the line came Zora''s roar, "Are you out of your mind? You lunatic!"


    Jessica was no pushover. She snapped back, "Say that again! I hit you because you were asking for it,


    running your mouth like that!"


    "You really don''t know when someone''s on your side, do you? I was sticking up for you, and you don''t


    have a clue!" Zora retorted with a hint ofint.


    "Cut the crap with the self-praise. Who are you siding with, huh? Aaliyah''s at least my family, and here


    you are, a mere nanny, trying to meddle in our rtionship! Meshing out at her doesn''t mean I''m on


    your side. Keep poking your nose in, and believe me, you''ll regret it!" Jessica hissed through clenched


    teeth.


    I nced at Hannah, who raised an eyebrow and smirked, shrugging, "Looks like she''s finally snapped


    out of it!"


    Hannah snickered, "Some people just need a good scolding to remember who they are!"


    Their bickering grew louder, suddenly interrupted by a piercing scream.


    I thought to myself that Zora had no chance against Jessica. After all, Jessica had been spoiled rotten


    by Hazel. I continued munching on my apple, the ruckus over the phone as noisy as a farmers'' market,


    until it abruptly stopped.


    Hannah looked like she was enjoying the drama. She grinned at me, saying, "Looks like Zora really did


    start this mess!"


    I shared my perspective with Hannah as an outsider, "Whoever starts trouble never really gets away


    with it. Think about it. If Jessica were to actually hit Zora, and Zora threw a fit, no one would be there to


    look after Hazel. If we left Hazel in Jessica''s care, that''d be a nightmare!"


    "You worry too much! Those two will just knock some sense into each other. Just sit back and enjoy the


    show, but don''t get too close, or you''ll end up sttered with blood!" Hannah warned me with augh.


    "I know Jessica too well. When she¡¯s mad, she''s unstoppable, like a force of nature. Plus, with that


    thirty-million-dor issue hanging over her head, this is far from over."


    I was genuinely concerned for Jessica; she was a troublemaker who didn''t realize the mess she''d


    gotten herself into.


    "She''s a real piece of work, isn''t she?" Hannahmented.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    "I bet Jan is beside himself right now. Thirty million isn''t a small gap to fill. If the shareholders find


    out, they won''t let this slide."


    "Allie, why don''t we... fan the mes a bit?" Hannah suggested mischievously, her grin revealing her


    cute canines, "It''s just a matter of shaking up the shareholders a bit more!"


    I sat up, wiped my hands on a napkin before saying, "Though most of the shares have been sold off,


    that money was Medsafe Liyah Inc.''s. Those shareholders who had to dump their stakes are still bitter.


    And you''re right, this is a prime opportunity to let off some steam."


    I quickly dialed Addrion.


    I knew many shareholders were close friends with Addrion. I had already made it clear to Ronan which


    ones were off-limits, as they were essential to stabilize Medsafe Liyah Inc. once we regained control.


    They were my pirs, and keeping the veterans would help Addrion maintain order once he took over.


    With just a word from Addrion, he could stir the pot more.


    "Addrion, where are you right now?" I asked seriously.


    He immediately sensed the gravity of my words, "Something up?"


    I knew he was strategizing, so I continued, "We need to put more pressure on Jan. Stir up the


    shareholders to hold him ountable for the thirty million. Even if Medsafe Liyah Inc. bounces back,


    Jessica needs to learn her lesson." Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    "Got it! I''ll call Vinson right now," Addrion finally said.


    I followed up, "Addrion, does Mr. Vinson know you''re back?"

 Chapter 453

    Chapter 453


    "I have no idea!" chuckled Addrion with a lowugh. "No one knows where I''ve been. This return is


    premature ¨C I didn¡¯t notify anyone! But, this is when our case is strongest. I''d love to have a behind-the-


    scenes chat with him myself! Look, our chance has arrived!"


    Rising from my seat, I strolled over to the floor-to-ceiling windows, gazing out at the sky as it darkened


    into twilight. A restless energy stirred within me.


    "Keep the pressure on him. Don''t let him catch his breath," I instructed firmly.


    With a sly grin, Addrion teased, "Man, when a woman gets tough, she''s ruthless!"


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    I snorted withughter. "Addrion, that guy tried to finish me off yesterday. If I let him off easy, what kind


    of pushover would I be?"


    "What happened?" Addrion inquired immediately.


    I recounted the car ident on Seabreeze Boulevard from the day before, which got him cursing up a


    storm. "That beast, he''s such a low life!" Then he assured me, "Hang on, I''ll make a call right now."


    I hastily interrupted him, "Wait, Addrion..."


    "What''s up?" he asked promptly.


    "Can you go home now? That''s what I''m concerned about," I pressed Addrion. "If you can, I''d like to


    visit your wife too."


    "Not until Medsafe Liyah Inc. is ours for sure," Addrion stated resolutely. "We''re one step away. We


    can''t act rashly. Once he signs on the dotted line, that''s when we''re truly safe. I''ve been waiting for this


    day for a long time."


    "I understand," I replied, my eyes welling up as I nodded. "Okay, got it. We¡¯ll talkter."


    Clutching the phone, I stood there for a long while, only turning away when the streetlights suddenly


    flickered on outside.


    Hannah approached with a ss of milk for me, "I just got off the phone with Logan. He said the media


    setup is ready, right outside. Does that work for you?"


    "Sure, I''m not sticking around here anyway. Doesn''t matter!" I said indifferently.


    "Don''t overthink it. There''s got to be an end to this. The boss said..." Hannah paused, then continued,


    "He mentioned the two victims in that car crash were Zora''s lover, an ex-colleague of Maddox who


    used to be a fitness coach and a junkie. But we still haven''t found concrete proof that Maddox paid


    them off."


    I let out a coldugh, "I knew it. Zora has been nothing but trouble. Just a pawn in Jan¡¯s game,


    awaiting sacrifice!"


    Hannah shook her head in disbelief, "Even Jan has someone like Zora following him. It''s a strange


    world.¡±


    "So let her and Jessica duke it out. They''re well-matched and bound to destroy each other. We''ll take


    care of whoever''s left."


    "Allie, you''ve got to stay sharp. These people don''t y by the rules," warned Hannah. "We really need


    to find a new ce soon."


    I was about to respond to Hannah when my phone rang. ncing at the caller ID, I saw it was my dad.


    With a smile, I swiped to answer, "Hey, Dad!"


    "You home?" he asked cheerfully.


    "Yeah, just chatting with Hannah. How''s everyone?" I asked, my voice light.


    "We''re fine, just a few days in. Carl''s due for his shots soon, and Helga was wondering when you''d be


    My heart swelled with joy, "What are you up to, sweetheart?"


    There was a rustling sound on the other end, followed by Carl''s sweet voice, "Mommy, I''m learning with


    Grandpa!"


    "And what are you learning?" I asked yfully.


    "We are ying chess!" Carl''s pronunciation was adorably unclear.


    Iughed heartily, "Good job baby.''"


    Then I told my dad, "Tell Helga I''m busy tomorrow, but any day after that works for me."


    "Alright. I''ll let her know," Dad said. "Once you''re done there, will you being back?"


    "Yes, I haven''t had a chance to rx for a while." New chapter av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    "Okay, bye!" I replied, blushing.

 Chapter 454

    Chapter 454


    The following morning dawned with the abrupt pounding on my door. Before I could even rub the sleep


    from my eyes, Hannah burst into my room, breathless with urgency.


    "Allie... something''s happened!" she gasped.


    Half-awake, I jolted upright, my heart thundering in my chest. "What? What''s happened? Who''s in


    trouble?"


    "Hazel''s dead!"


    "What?" I was fully alert now, my eyes wide with shock. "Hazel''s dead? How did she die?"


    The news hit me like a sledgehammer.


    "She seemed fine yesterday, how on earth could she be dead? What exactly happened?"


    Hannah''s face was a mix of emotions, unreadable. "It''s a long story, but this looks like the end of the


    road for Zora!"


    "What do you mean? What''s Zora got to do with this?" I was utterly confused.


    Hannah cracked a spiteful smile, her teeth gritted. "It''s all Zora''s fault. Or in other words, Jan''s own


    undoing. His mother died at Zora''s hand, and that¡¯s another life in her hand. Jan won''t let this slide!"


    Hannah was practically vibrating with excitement, but I was still trying to piece it all together.


    "Hold on, girl! Slow down, you''ve lost me. Start from the beginning, what exactly happened?"


    Hannah took a deep breath and came to sit beside me, her expression turning serious. "It all started


    with yesterday''s fiasco, beginning with Jessica. Remember how her brothers gave her a thrashing the


    night before?


    She was cooped up all day yesterday, stewing in her anger. Then she went to the hospital to check on


    N?velDrama.Org owns all content.


    her injuries and decided to visit her mother. She wasshing out at everyone like a mad dog, and just


    then Hazel woke up, thirsty. She ordered Zora to get her some water.


    Zora thought taking care of Hazel at the hospital was a sign of Jan''s favor and didn''t take kindly to


    Jessica''s attitude. They exchanged some harsh words, and Zora took the opportunity to mention that


    you hade by and even took Hazel''s wallet!"


    Hannah wasying it all out without pause, and I didn''t interrupt.


    She recounted every detail. "That set Jessica off. Because she had no clue about the wallet!"


    I pondered for a moment, skeptical. "That''s odd, then who brought the wallet to Hazel in the first ce?


    Jesper?"


    Hannah waved it off. "Doesn''t matter who brought it, the wallet was the spark that lit the fire!"


    Seeing my still puzzled look, she urged, "Look, Allie, just wash up quick, and I''ll show you the


    surveince footage. That''ll clear everything up!"


    I stared at her in disbelief. "Quincy''s cameras are still rolling?"


    "Yep! Go freshen up, and I''ll fetch us some food!" Hannah said, dashing out.


    I quickly washed up, and by the time I was done, Hannah was back with some breakfast.


    "Let me see it," I said, taking a sip of milk and snatching Hannah''s phone from her hands.


    She had already queued up the footage. The screen showed Zora and Jessica''s heated exchange.


    Zora nced at Jessica and replied confidently, "That woman''s like a radar; nothing gets past her. She


    must''ve seen the online reports about Hazel''s condition worsening. Who needs to tell her anything?"


    Updated at Dra§Þ??§àvels.c§àm


    Jessica hissed with venom, "She''s everywhere, as lively as ever. That damn bitch!"

 Chapter 455

    Chapter 455


    Zora cast a sidelong nce at Jessica, her lips curling into a mischievous smirk. "Ha... Jessica, Aaliyah


    swung by today, and for some reason, your mother gave her a wallet!"


    Her voice dripped with envy, and as she was about to add more fuel to the fire, she was cut off by a


    weak yet furious roar from Hazel, lying frail in her hospital bed. "Shut your mouth, Zora, and get out!"


    Jessica''s brow furrowed as she turned towards her mother.


    Feigning innocence, Zora turned to face an even more incensed Jessica.


    Hazel red at Zora, her voice gaining strength despite her condition. "You''re nothing but trouble... Get


    out!"


    With an awkward chuckle, Zora turned to Jessica, trying to stir things up. "See? She won''t even let me


    speak!"


    Jessica grabbed Zora, her gaze burning into Hazel on the bed. "What wallet are you talking about?


    Have you lost your mind? What wallet, Mom? Where''d you get a wallet from?"


    Hazel looked at Jessica with clear eyes and said firmly, "None of your business!"


    I was taken aback by her response. It seemed Hazel wasn''t as confused as we thought; she knew


    exactly what she had given me. This made me wonder, why would she give me these things? Could it


    really be a change of heart?


    Stung by her mother''s retort, Jessica''s anger red. "So you''ve gone senile, is that it? Fine, if you won''t


    talk, I''ll find out myself."


    With that, Jessica whipped out her cellphone and made a call. I realized that the call was meant for me.


    As expected, she walked towards the door while talking on the phone, re-enacting the moment she had


    called me.


    Hazel, lying in bed, closed her eyes in resignation, her expression one of deep sadness.


    Meanwhile, the silent observer, Farley, finally snapped, "Can''t you keep it down? This is a hospital, for


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    heaven''s sake!"


    Wanting to skip to the next part, I moved the progress bar forward,nding on the scene where Jessica


    and Zora were scrapping. The two women were inseparable in their brawl until doctors and nurses


    rushed in to break them apart.


    Both looked disheveled and furious, prompting Farley to storm out in disgust.


    Hazel, on the bed, shook with rage, but Jessica paid her no mind,pletely disregarding her own


    mother and forgetting they were in a hospital.


    Zora, havingposed herself, grabbed her handbag and headed for the door, muttering, "Since


    you''ve made your feelings clear, you can look after your own mother. I came here out of respect for


    Jan."


    "Don''t you dare drop Jan''s name like you''re someone special. You think you''re too good for us, a


    mere nanny dreaming of being the other woman? Dream on!" Jessica sneered.


    "Jessica, you''d better shut your mouth," Zora warned. But Jessica stepped forward and pped Zora


    across the face. The surrounding nurses and patients from other rooms couldn''t help but let out a


    collective gasp, their whispers filling the air.


    Hazel let out a cry from her bed, "Enough, stop it, for god¡¯s sake... stop it..."


    But the two women were beyond listening, tangled up in a furious knot.


    Watching the chaos unfold, I felt an immense irritation. How did this rte to Hazel''s death? Co?tent §àf


    And in the very next second, something utterly unimaginable happened...

 Chapter 456

    Chapter 456


    Hazely still on the hospital bed, her body wrapped in white bandages, a stark contrast to the sterile


    environment. Suddenly, with a surge of energy that seemed to defy thews of physics, she bolted


    upright. Her movements were clumsy and desperate as she lunged at Zora, her bandaged arms


    locking around Zora''s neck in a vice-like grip. The eerie moans escaping her lips turned the room into a


    scene straight out of a horror movie- she moved like a zombie!


    The scene waspletely chaotic. My eyes were glued to the unfolding drama, and I couldn''t help but


    exim, "How on earth did she get up?"


    Clearly, Hazel had been provoked beyond her limits, exhibiting a strength that was downright


    superhuman.


    At first, Zora seemed frozen in shock, her body stiff with disbelief. The scene had unfolded with such


    abruptness that it was hard to process, much less react.


    But it didn''t take long for Zora to snap out of her daze and begin to struggle fiercely, her instincts


    kicking in as she sensed the imminent danger to her life.


    Despite Zora''s efforts, Hazel''s grip remained unyielding, her determination evident as she exerted more


    pressure.


    Jessica, who had been at a disadvantage up till now, was suddenly free from the confrontation and


    stumbled backward, her eyes wide with fear as she watched Hazel''s movement.


    Zora''s fight became more violent, her hands pounding against Hazel''s arms with all her might. The


    intensity of the scene sent chills down my spine, making me wonder how much pain Hazel was


    enduring with her deep burn wounds.


    Hazel''s response to the pain was to let out a furious howl, "You... you deserve to die! You have to pay


    for this with your life, atone for it..." Her cries were filled with venom and vengeance.


    Suddenly, Hazel''s head dipped, and I couldn''t quite grasp what she was intending to do. But then came


    a moment so ghastly that it was seared into my memory: Hazel twisted her head sharply, and Zora''s


    blood-curdling scream echoed through the room as Hazel''s mouth became stained with blood.


    I couldn''t help but gasp, "Oh my God... what was she doing?"


    Hannah quickly rified, "Hazel must have bitten off Zora''s ear!"


    Thebination of Hannah''s words and the gruesome sight made me gag involuntarily, yet I couldn''t


    tear my eyes away from the video.


    Driven by pain and desperation, Zora managed to throw Hazel off with brute force. Hazel, who had


    been partially suspended in the air, was flung from the bed like a ragdoll,nding on the floor with a


    thud.


    A collective gasp rose from the onlookers at the doorway, "Oof!"


    The chaos that ensued within the hospital room was punctuated by Zora''s continuous, agonizing


    screams.


    Meanwhile, Jessica, with a cruel smirk on her face, remarked with scorn, "Serves her right! That lousy


    nanny had iting... Ha!"


    Someone shouted, "Check on your mom, for God¡¯s sake!"


    Only then did Jessica''s gaze shift to her mother, whoy motionless on the floor. Approaching


    hesitantly, she called out, "Mom... Mom..."


    Sensing something was terribly wrong, she raised her voice in panic, "Somebody help... Doctor!"


    Two nurses who had been watching the drama quickly entered and knelt beside Hazel. One nurse


    immediately dashed out, and shortly after, a doctor rushed in.


    After about five minutes of frantic attempts to revive Hazel, the medical staff stood back as the doctor


    shook his head and murmured, "My condolences, she''s gone."


    At that moment, Jessica''s wails filled the room.


    On-screen, Zora, upon hearing ''she¡¯s gone,'' clutched her ear and scrambled away as fast as she


    could.


    Hannah shed me an ''OK'' sign.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    I reached for my phone and dialed Ronan. His voice, smooth as ever, came through, "You''re up?"


    Ronan and I had reached a point where we got straight to the point. Updated at Dra§Þ??§àvels.c§àm


    "Have you considered the bacsh this might cause?" Ronan cautioned me.


    I paused briefly, "It''s the best shot we''ve got. I don''t want to wait any longer."


    "Alright then, go for it!" His unequivocal support was a relief.


    After hanging up, I turned to Hannah with determination in my eyes and dered, "Let''s get ready."

 Chapter 457

    Chapter 457


    At 9 AM, my door was swarmed by an eager throng of media reporters, buzzing with curiosity and


    spection. "What in the world is going on? Why the sudden call for a press conference?" they


    murmured among themselves.


    "Must be something to do with Medsafe Liyah Inc., right? Looks like they can''t hold up any longer."


    "Aaliyah has always been a strong woman. Hard to believe Medsafe Liyah Inc. hase to this. What


    a turn of events! Wasn''t their celebration just a few days ago? Is this karma?"


    "The Dawsons are always a handful! Last time it was Aaliyah saving Jan''s reputation.. She''s not


    trying to do that again, is she? Why else would she pick her own frontwn to meet the press?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    "She''s just a puppet, trying to clean up this mess? Give me a break. Who''d believe that? We''ve got


    photos, we''ve got proof ¨C there¡¯s no way she can rify anything this time!"


    "Let''s just wait and see."


    With a nod to Hannah, I strode confidently out of the door, which she promptly opened wide. I stood


    before the media, dressed in a in dress, no makeup, my face bare and my eyes shadowed with dark


    circles.


    I faced the crowd, and after a moment that seemed tost an eternity, I dered that I had officially


    hired awyer to file for divorce and start a brand new chapter in my life.


    Sure enough, a reporter questioned the current state of Medsafe Liyah Inc. and whether I would take


    over thepany post-divorce. I told them the truth; Medsafe Liyah Inc. was no longer in my hands.


    I answered some more probing questions, hesitating several times, painting a picture of unbearable


    circumstances that left me no choice but to sue, and hinting at Jan''s infidelity, leaving them dangling


    with suspense.


    At that moment, Hannah cut the conference short, announcing its end. Before the press could recover,


    she shut the doors, and we retreated back into the safety of the house.


    The moment the door closed, Hannah and I exchanged a knowing smile.


    Those reporters were fast ¨C before they were even escorted off the property, the news had exploded


    across Goldenvale Town.


    I didn''t rush out. Instead, I lounged on the sofa, scrolling through my phone, watching the reactions


    unfold.


    Still, I was puzzled. The news of Hazel''s death had yet to break. It seemed Jan was intent on


    suppressing the story.


    But it¡¯s only a matter of time. How could I keep such a juicy bit of gossip to myself?


    I was willing to face the bacsh; I was determined to turn the Dawson household upside down.


    Meanwhile, Logan called, his voice filled withugh. "The tax folks have pped Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    with a notice. They can''t cover the taxes. Jessica''s thirty million hastened their downfall!"


    I told Logan to add fuel to the fire - "The nanny, who¡¯s the mistress of the head of Medsafe Liyah Inc.,


    got into a spat with his sister, and in the chaosst night, Hazel took a tumble and past away in the


    hospital while the nanny ran away!"


    Loganughed uproariously. "What a headline!"


    "I''m just adding to my odds of winning the divorce case, that''s all," I said boldly. "Don''t forget, there are


    plenty of witnesses at the hospital. Can he really silence them all? Besides, Jessica is still full of


    energy, right?"


    "Give it up! Jesper has locked Jessica up. Heard that her husband, Palmer, tried to take off with two


    hundred and fifty grand cash, but Jesper caught him and brought him back ¨C broke his legs!" Logan


    was almost choking withughter.


    "Are you sure?" Logan teased.


    Just then, another call came in ¨C it was Cami.  Dra§Þanovels.c§àm


    I quickly told Logan, "Tell Catherine I can''t make it these next few days and to get some rest."


    "Okay!"


    I ended the call and picked up Cami''s persistent ring.


    Her voice came through,ced with intrigue, "Aaliyah, I''ve got something to ask you!"

 Chapter 458

    Chapter 458


    Hearing Cami''s cautious inquiry, I already had my suspicions. With a calm demeanor, I replied,


    "Cami, spill the beans."


    "I... I overheard something about Hazel..." She trailed off, hesitant.


    I could almost picture her anxious face, and a part of me couldn''t help but wonder if this was yet


    another ploy by Jerome Dawson to get to the bottom of things. After all, Cami had lied to me before,


    so it wasn''t out of the question.


    I rolled my eyes subtly and said, "I just heard about it myself, not sure if it¡¯s real."


    "Aaliyah, how could she just suddenly pass away?" Cami''s voice was tinged with trepidation.


    I figured, whether she was digging for Jerome or just genuinely curious, I had to tell the truth.


    I pondered my words for a moment before revealing, "Word is Jessica got into a brawl with the nanny


    and somehow Hazel got caught in the crossfire."


    "Wha¡ª? Who told you that?" She sounded genuinely shocked.


    "I just heard it too. You called right as my friend was filling me in. She¡¯s in the hospital, and from what I


    hear, the ce is a mess!" I quickly crafted a usible exnation.


    "So, it''s really true then?" Cami murmured, almost to herself.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    "Is that what you heard?" I prodded, casually adding, "Wonder if Jerome knows about this."


    Cami paused before hastily adding, "I was at the hospital making a delivery when I caught snippets


    of conversation. Something felt off, so I pried a little but didn''t dare confirm. With the Dawson family, I


    didn''t know who to call, so I thought I''d check with you!"


    Dancing around the question, Cami asked, "So... are we going?"


    A smirk tugged at my lips. What a question ¨C to go or not to go?


    The Dawson family was still sitting on the news. Where would she even go?


    "Why don¡¯t you check with Jerome? I have no clue how they''re handling things. Jan¡¯s been keeping


    me in the dark too. I don¡¯t know what''s really going on. They''re all acting so cryptic, what''s the big


    secret? Cami, I¡¯ve officially filed for divorce!"


    I dropped the bomb on purpose, to shake her up a bit. I didn''t believe for a second that she hadn''t seen


    the news online.


    The inte was aze with my divorce filing, and Cami was hardly a hermit. If she knew about


    Hazel¡¯s passing, how could she miss my news?


    Cami gasped, "You... you''re getting a divorce? Howe..."


    "Yep, just decided. So, I haven''t figured out whether to attend the funeral or not," I said candidly.


    Cami said, "I¡¯m sorry to hear that. Gosh! Has it reallye to that?"


    I wasn''t sure what she meant by that, but she quickly offered somefort, "Don''t get worked up. I


    don''t even know what to say to you!"


    "Regardless, whether I divorce or not, we''ll always be friends!"


    "Ah, right, exactly... We were never truly Dawson folks to begin with!"


    Her words drew augh from me, "Spot on, Cami. We were never really one of them!"


    Then she slipped up, "By the way... Aaliyah, is Fidelia behaving?"


    Iughed openly, "She¡¯s too well-behaved, rest assured! I''ll bring her back safe and sound before


    school starts!"


    I got her drift. Hearing about my divorce, she naturally felt uneasy about her child staying at my mom''s.


    Typical of her mindset, but not surprising.


    "Don''t overthink it, Cami. She¡¯s fine, no worries!"


    With a string of affirmations from Cami, she finally hung up, somewhat reassured.


    I pondered Cami''s question ¨C would I attend Hazel''s funeral?


    But skipping out wouldn¡¯t exactly leave me at peace either.  Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    Married or not, my decision was bound to stir the pot.


    "Enough of this nonsense!" Jan bellowed, at the end of his tether.


    Nonsense? I chuckled darkly. If that¡¯s the role he pegged me in, I might as well y it to the full..

 Chapter 459

    Chapter 459


    "Jan, how dare youe at me with usations? What''s this ''time like this'' that you''re talking


    about? When have you ever picked a good time toe after me? And besides, didn''t I already notify


    you that I want a divorce?"


    "Aaliyah, I never imagined you could be so venomous. What on earth did you say to my mom?" Jan


    cut to the chase, not bothering with beating around the bush.


    I was taken aback, not expecting him to hit me with that question. My heart skipped a beat, but I coolly


    retorted, "What could I possibly have said? What are you afraid I might have said?"


    "But... my mom''s dead," Jan bellowed from across the room, his voiceden with a mix of rage and


    sorrow.


    "Your mom''s dead?" I eximed, suddenly feeling a surge of confidence, "When did this happen?


    And... how is your mom''s death rted to me? I visited her yesterday during lunch, and she was


    perfectly fine. Everything was alright when I departed, and you were there as well. Now you''re telling


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    me she''s dead? Jan, what kind of sick joke is this? Have you lost your mind?"


    "I''m not joking, she diedst night!" Jan defended himself, his tone dark and ominous, "You better


    hope I don''t find out what you said to her."


    "Why don''t you just go ask your mom?" I taunted.


    Wasn''t I a troublemaker? Well, I''d y the part!


    With no witnesses to prove anything, the few words I said to Hazel were now an eternal mystery,


    unsolvable even by death! I''d take it to my grave! Let''s see what they could do about it!


    This was beyond my expectations. So, there''s nothing you can do but ask your mom on the other side!


    I couldn''t resist gloating.


    "She was fine when I saw her at noon, dead by evening, and you''re questioning me? Tell me, how did


    she die?" I pressed him.


    I wanted him to spill the details of his mom''s death, but I doubted he would dare.


    Suddenly, Hannah eximed, "Miss, the inte is saying Hazel was knocked off her bed by the nanny


    and died on the spot! It was an ident!"


    I struggled to keep a straight face; Hannah was a true ally.


    "Jan, is that really how your mom died?" I asked, feigning innocence.


    The other side was silent as a grave.


    "So why aren''t you confronting the nanny who identally killed her instead of using me?" I said,


    relentless in my pursuit, "The nanny was your woman, your most trusted person. I had no clue how


    your mom got hurt, and you''re asking me how she died? Give me a break! What kind of logic is that?


    Oh... right! If she hadn''t told me about your mom being in the hospital, how would I have known? She


    even had the gall to call me heartless. Isn''t that heartlessness your doing? Now you''re trying to flip the


    script on me, Jan, you''re really something!


    It seems in your heart, the nanny is above all, even when she''s responsible for your mom''s death, you


    don''t seek justice. Instead, you me me! You must be grieving too hard! These are questions you


    should be asking your beloved Zora!"


    "Aaliyah, I can''t believe how unreasonable you are!" Jan was practically shaking with anger.


    I didn''t care whether he was angry or not, I continued my tirade, "Ha! Zora now owes the Dawson


    family two lives, and you''re still protecting her. Is there something shady going on? Jan, I


    underestimated you! If you want to point fingers, make sure you can back it up! If you don''t know the


    number for reporting a crime, I''ve got it!"


    With that, I hung up on him! Then I gave Hannah a thumbs up, "Nice one!"


    "Allie, Jan is backed into a corner now!" Hannah chuckled, "But, Zora''s gone into hiding, and Jan


    is searching for her!"


    "Understood!"


    Just then, Addrion called. I knew it had to be news from the battlefield!


    I quickly answered, and sure enough, Addrion sounded ecstatic, "Allie, Vinson has made his move.


    He''s rallied the shareholders and they''ve cornered Jan in Irving''s office."


    Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    "Why in Irving''s office?" I was surprised.


    "What is it?" I could sense Addrion hesitating and immediately pressed for more information.

 Chapter 460

    Chapter 460


    Addison said, "Everything''s moving too fast! If he signs the buyout agreement now, could it affect your


    divorce?"


    Just as he said that, my phone started ringing. I nced at the screen, excused myself with a "It''s Mr.


    Elbert, I need to take this," and answered the call.


    Addison hung up with a quick "Okay."


    Elbert got straight to the point, voicing the very concern Addison had just mentioned.


    "If he uses the signing of the buyout as an excuse to stall, he could be seen as maliciously refusing to


    divorce, which could make you liable for his debts. And that¡¯s a huge number."


    Without a second thought, I asked, "Is there any way to sidestep this mess?"


    He paused, then in a soft, thoughtful voice suggested, "Think outside the box. Hit him where it hurts."


    I nodded to myself, replying with a determined, "Got it."


    I hung up and paced back and forth, Elbert¡¯s words echoing in my mind.


    I called Ronan, exined my thought process, and asked for the information I needed.


    After another call to Elbert to draft the divorce papers, relinquishing all marital assets and custody of


    our three children, I waited. Within half an hour, I had the papers in hand, ready for my husband to walk


    right into the trap.


    For Jan, this day was undoubtedly the darkest of darks, a day I was sure he''d never forget.


    The news of Hazel''s tragic ident was everywhere, as was the story of mywsuit for divorce and the


    buyout of Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    He had be the talk of Goldenvale Town, and even national news - the renowned hairstylist who


    had struck it rich overnight was now a sensation for all the wrong reasons. The rumors of his nned


    migration to Australia crumbled to dust.


    By evening, the news I had been waiting for arrived.


    Jan had signed the buyout agreement, and as thepany moved towards liquidation, everything


    was frozen.


    I was certain Jan would return here tonight. With his advisor gone and not a penny to his name,


    where else could he go? Sure enough, when he walked through the door, he looked even more


    defeated than I had imagined.


    His once crisp suit was wrinkled, his hair, always styled to perfection, was now a disheveled mess. His


    eyes were bloodshot, his cheeks hollow, and his proud sideburns were lost beneath a shadow of


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    stubble...


    If he hadn''te home, I might not have believed that this man was the same charming Jan I once


    knew.


    As he stepped inside and saw me casually scrolling through my phone on the couch, he froze. Those


    hawk-like eyes of his burned with rage. But there I sat, calm andposed.


    As we locked eyes, the anger in his gaze slowly extinguished against the cool indifference of mine.


    He wasn''t a fool. Perhaps a part of him still clung to the fantasy that if he could just maintain our


    marriage, charm me once more, he might have a chance to rise from the ashes.


    I was hisst hope for a new beginning.


    He attempted a sorrowful smile, a forced curl of his lips, "Honey... why aren''t you asleep?"


    He chuckled bitterly, got himself a ss of whiskey from the cab, and downed it in one gulp.


    Then, pouring another, he stared into the ss, the liquid mirroring the redness of his eyes. Updated at


    Dr§Ñmanovels


    Neither of us spoke.


    "The path you''re on is of your own making," I replied, not denying my contempt.


    "But do you know the reason?" he asked, an unexpected question hanging between us.

 Chapter 461

    Chapter 461


    I couldn''t help but roll my eyes when he brazenly questioned me. After all the unspeakable deeds he''d


    done, he had the gall to ask me whether I know the reason. The nerve of him was just astonishing.


    Despite everything, I managed to maintain a coolposure as I faced him. It wasn''t that I didn''t want


    to respond; I simply had nothing to say.


    With his chest puffed out, he ranted, "Ever since I met you, you''ve acted all high and mighty, as if


    you''re above everyone else, ignoring my existence, disregarding all I''ve done for you!


    You never truly loved me. I was just a pawn in your game of arrogance, a mere tool for you to unt


    your superiority. Youvished gifts on me and my family just to show off, to bask in the admiration and


    worship of others, to have them bend to your will and follow your everymand. It was all about


    showcasing your nobility and your indifference to everything!"


    Watching him talking, I started to wonder when his eloquence had improved so much. Too bad the


    substance of his speech was utterly wed. Or maybe, it was just his frustration talking.


    His expression was so repulsive I could hardly bear to look at him.


    What a disgrace to such a good-looking face.


    Then, with a sly smirk, he leaned in closer and said in a conspiratorial tone, "So I tested you, to


    challenge that hidden haughtiness. And there it was, your true self emerged, the meek and mild facade


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    gone, revealing someone who bites back!"


    His face, shadowed with malignance and pettiness, suddenly made me feel an unprecedented sense of


    helplessness. It seemed the huge gap between us had always been there, right from the start.


    He was the one hiding evil, masquerading as a gentleman.


    Biases are like mountains; only by moving those mountains can one truly think clearly.


    Take Jan, for example. He''d never thought things through properly because he was inherently


    biased. Perhaps our paths crossing was a fundamental misalignment.


    He belonged to his old world, where he could y the heartthrob to a session of women, showing


    them his many faces, getting them into bed with illusions of grandeur, moving on smoothly to the next


    girl after each brief affair.


    It was I who pulled him from his track, not only exposing him to the positive energy of the sunlight but


    also granting him a wealth that he''d always desired but could never attain.


    The role reversal was too quick for him; he was stunned, overwhelmed, and lost. Yet, he felt


    constrained by me, shackled, tied down. It led him to desperately seek an escape.


    It was truly pathetic.


    But there was no turning back. Even if he wanted to, he could never return to his old world.


    Because back then, he was a brute, and now, he was something worse.


    Seeing that I remained silent, not engaging in his tirade, Jan grew increasingly agitated.


    "Aaliyah, I''m right, aren''t I?" He poured himself another drink and downed it in one go.


    I knew it was time to put a stop to this. If he kept drinking, we''d never get to any serious conversation.


    Any woman who came to get their hair done, if I fancied her, I made sure she ended up in my bed!


    None could escape my grasp! Can you keep up with that?"


    Heughed wildly, then approached me, leaning down to gloat in my face, "Including you!" New ch§Ñpter


    av?ble on Dr§Ñman§àvels.c§à§Þ


    I looked at him, unfazed, as if he were just a steaming pile of garbage.


    "What''s wrong? Are you mad?" He was puzzled by my unreactive demeanor. "But I''ll admit, you''re


    different from those other women, hard to conquer."

 Chapter 462

    Chapter 462


    Heughed with reckless abandon, as if there was no tomorrow.


    "Those clowns at the salon, they call me a dreamer, iming that I would never get you! Ha! It doesn''t


    bother me one bit. They''re just jealous¡ªjealous I''ve got a pretty face!"


    He shrugged his shoulders with pompous pride, as if he was still the once sessful CEO.


    Leaning in close to me, his broad face was too near, eyes threaded with crimson veins, corners of his


    mouth frothing, his cologne mixed with sweat creating a nauseating stench.


    "You liked my face, right?! That¡¯s why you couldn¡¯t resist me!" His voice was dripping with self-


    satisfaction and wickedness. "So, divorce? Aaliyah, don''t even think about it! Isn''t it nice for us to live in


    peaceful together? With three kids, even if you leave me, you can¡¯t do anything as a single mom! Even


    I wouldn''t go after someone like you again!"


    He cackled like a madman, then suddenly turned to me and said, "Medsafe Liyah Inc. is gone, so


    what? We start over! You still have Oldtown Avenue, and there''s VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, right? So,


    Aaliyah, don''t worry, I''m not divorcing you!"


    After his tirade, I spoke with an undeniably calm and firm tone, "I''m divorcing you!"


    His eyes narrowed instantly, his gaze piercing as he looked at me, murder in his eyes.


    "Say that again?" He lunged at me, his breath hot on my face, utterly repulsive.


    He ground his teeth and repeated, "Say that again? Aaliyah!"


    I didn''t flinch, meeting his gaze head-on, "I said, I''m getting this divorce. The downfall of Medsafe Liyah


    Inc. was the greatest gift I ever gave you. If you think I''ll continue ying this game with you, Jan,


    you''ve lost all your value to me. I''m done!"


    "Do you hate me?" He suddenly asked, and then nodded presumptuously, "Right, you hate me!"


    "Hate requires love as its precondition! Without love, where does hatee from? Are you worthy?


    You are a beast, how could you know love or hate!" I spoke evenly but seriously, "In this divorce, you


    leave with nothing. Give up all marital assets and custody of the kids!"


    "What did you say?" He roared at me, pointing his finger, "What did you say?"


    I handed him the divorce papers, "If you can''t understand, then read. Sign when you''re done!"


    "Don''t even think about it, Aaliyah... Don''t even think about it!¡± Jan shouted like a madman.


    ¡°Do you think, after all the despicable things you''ve done, that I would tolerate with you? Did you really


    think I was good-natured enough to let you slice away at me?" Throughout, I remainedposed,


    which only made him look more like a fool.


    "You think you can dump me? And leave me with nothing? You''ve got some nerve, Aaliyah Wilburn.


    Don''t forget, this is Goldenvale Town!" He said childishly as if Goldenvale Town granted him some


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    twisted immunity.


    "No matter where we are, you don''t stand a chance!" I stated definitively.


    "Stop the act, aren''t you tired, Jan?" I couldn''t help butugh at his pathetic disy, myughter


    bright and sunny.  Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    He froze, examining my smiling face, his eyes shrinking like a startled cat, filled with shock, obsession,


    and longing.


    He covered his face, sobbing uncontrobly.

 Chapter 463

    Chapter 463


    After what seemed like an eternity, he lifted his tear-streaked face to look at me, managing a sinister


    smile through his misery. "Divorce? Sure, I''ll agree to your terms... but I have one condition of my own."


    Finally, he was talking. Of course, I knew what his ''condition'' would be.


    I smiled, content and confident, then spoke with deliberate emphasis, "You''re in no position to bargain


    with me!"


    "Then forget about getting a divorce!" He wore a shamelessly defiant look. "If we split, who''s going to


    deal with all the debts? If I die... the kids will be fatherless!"


    "That''s fine by me. They''ll take the Wilburn name. They don''t need a father!" My reply was adamant


    and final.


    His expression froze for a moment, his clenched fists whitening at the knuckles.


    "Aaliyah, the only way you''re getting out of this marriage is if you give me your shares in VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals," he spat out before turning to storm up the stairs.


    "Jan, you''d better just sign the divorce papers! It''s the only way you''re walking away with any


    freedom. Otherwise... don''t me me for what happens next!" I was unwavering, typing a number into


    my phone and shing it at him with a mischievous smirk. "You know what this is. Think about the


    consequences."


    He nced at the three digits on my phone and froze on the spot. His expression grew darker and


    more menacing by the second, but I pressed on, seizing my advantage, "This is your one chance at


    freedom. Sign the papers, or I press this button and turn you in. Your choice."


    We stood there, locked in a standoff, sparks of hatred flying between our eyes.


    "Aaliyah, you''re pushing me too far! If you want a war, you''ve got one..." With a roar, he lunged at me,


    his hands reaching out with furious intent.


    I rolled off the couch with cool agility, dodging to the other side.


    From behind the couch, Larkin leaped into action, pressing his hand against the back of the sofa and


    vaulting over it. His foot connected squarely with Jan''s chest, sending him stumbling backward until


    hended on the floor with a heavy thud.


    Fuming, he red at Larkin but yelled my name instead. "Aaliyah... you''ve been hiding a man in our


    house!"


    I rose steadily from behind the sofa, phone still in hand, and said with icy rity, "Did you honestly think


    you were pulling off the perfect crime without me having a clue?"


    Sitting on the floor, his eyes burned with rage at the sight of me ¨C the hatred was clear.


    "Hannah!" I called out, ¡°Show him! Let''s see if it jogs his memory!¡± She emerged, stepping toward


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Jan with a tablet in her hand.


    She held a tablet in her hand, flipping through the content meticulously. As he watched, his face


    incrementally drained of color and his body began to tremble with unstoppable intensity...


    I regained myposure and asked calmly, "Is this enough for you?"


    "Do you think the hitmen who died in that car crash left no trace? Their recovered phones ¨C do you


    think your tracks are truly covered? And your hidden illness, spreading the virus at will ¨C do you think


    the police won''t pursue you for that?"


    He sat up, staring at me in disbelief.


    "How could you know all this? Aaliyah, what have you done?" Jan was thoroughly unsettled now.


    "That''s my question to you!" I put away my phone, tired of this battle, and took the two divorce


    agreements that Hannah presented again, flinging them in front of him. "Sign them!"


    "Sign the papers. Maybe then I''ll consider you a man of some decency," I stood firm, looking down at


    Jan as he groveled at my feet.


    He looked up, his eyes red as if bleeding, "Are you really so heartless?" Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    "Better to sign these papers and leave with some dignity than to beg like a dog. You better think about


    how you''re going to pay your debts once you leave here."


    I smirked inwardly. The moment he walked out that door, his life would be a living hell.

 Chapter 464

    Chapter 464


    Jan released my hand, slowly standing up with a look on his face that was hard to read. A moment


    ¡°Aaliyah, I¡¯ll sign it! From now on, we''re done!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I want.¡± I shot back with a sharp edge to my voice.


    He nced at me and smirked, a devil-may-care expression ying on his lips.


    Hannah stepped in just in time, sliding the divorce papers across the table to him with a pen tucked


    neatly alongside.


    He looked at me, took the pen, and without even ncing at the document, he scrawled his signature


    across the bottom.


    I let out a silent sigh of relief. A decade of mistakes was finally reaching its conclusion.


    Still caught in my reverie, I heard Jan¡¯s sardonic voice cut through, ¡°Aaliyah, don''t get ahead of


    yourself. You know, you¡¯d make the perfect housewife, staying at home, taking care of the kids.¡±


    His words hung heavy in the air, his smirk turning into a sneer that seemed to carry with it a chilling mix


    of malice and menace.


    ¡°Hannah, get Mr. Dawson''s stuff out of here, would you? I don¡¯t want him having any reason toe


    back,¡± I called out firmly. I wanted a clean break, no lingering connections.


    Jan¡¯s face turned to stone at my words. ¡°Aaliyah, this is still my home...¡±


    ¡°The moment you signed these papers, this is no longer your home,¡± I said, holding up the document.


    ¡°Because I can¡¯t bear the sight of you one minute longer!¡±


    With that, I turned on my heel, clutching the signed divorce papers, and made my way upstairs without


    a backward nce.


    ¡°You¡¯re cold-hearted!¡± he growled behind me, his voiceced with anger and disbelief.


    Hannah and Larkin maneuvered three oversized suitcases down to the front door, cing them right


    next to his car, their message clear, [Take care, and don¡¯t bothering back!]


    As Jan looked back onest time at the house that was no longer his, he turned and walked away,


    his departure an emblem of defeat.


    From the second-story window, I watched Jan leave, carrying his baggage. A bitter smile tugged at


    my lips as I realized that this was truly the end of our shared history. Standing on the balcony, I let the


    breeze wash over me for a long while before eventually retreating to my room.


    Milo, sensing my solitude, sauntered over and meowed softly. I picked him up, noticing how much


    weight he¡¯d lost during the times I hadn¡¯t been there.


    I stroked his fur gently and whispered, ¡°Little guy, from now on, we''re going to live well. Thank you for


    pulling me out of that mess.¡±


    He seemed to understand, purring and nestling into my embrace.


    I dialed my dad''s number, and as his warm voice came through, tears streamed down my face. ¡°Dad,


    I¡¯m free! I''ve divorced!¡±


    There was a pause on the line, then hisughter rang out. ¡°Sweetheart, that¡¯s wonderful! You did the


    right thing. Pack up those emotions and get ready to start over. Your life is going to be beautiful. You¡¯re


    right, you have to wave goodbye to the wrong ones to meet the right ones.¡±


    I chuckled through my tears. Dad always supported me, he was my mountain and my stance.


    ¡°But Dad, ten years to see someone¡¯s true colors? I¡¯m hopeless!¡±


    ¡°Life isn¡¯t smooth sailing for anyone. It¡¯s the bumps and bruises that make us strong,¡± he soothed.


    ¡°Stop crying! Smile! There''s so much more for you to do. No more moping around!¡± New ch?pter


    av?ble o?


    ¡°You¡¯re right!¡± Suddenly, I felt an unexpected surge of joy.


    With her rebellious streak, I was genuinely apprehensive about her reaction.

 Chapter 465

    Chapter 465


    Dad''s voice was resolute, "Honesty is the best policy, remember that. They may be young, but they''re


    wise beyond their years. Don''t hide anything from them. Lies are the real harm, not the truth. Don''t pay


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    the price of countless lies for the sake of one. They need to know where their father went wrong so


    they can learn from his mistakes and not follow in his misguided footsteps."


    "But I''m worried about Monique..." My voice trembled with unease.


    "I''ll handle it. This is the perfect opportunity to show them their father''s transgressions! I''ll let them


    make their own judgment!"


    Suddenly, I realized that Dad wasn''t just my financial support; he was the bedrock of my life and a


    mentor to the kids.


    "I want to change theirst name to Wilburn!" I dered, angercing my words, "The name Dawson


    will only bring them shame!"


    "A surname is just that, nothing to fuss over. If it''s necessary, or if it''s what they want, we should


    respect their wishes. It''s not just respect for them; it''s democratic!" Dad dismissed the concern with an


    air of indifference. I didn''t argue. Maybe I was being too radical.


    "And... Dad, I forgot to tell you something. Hazel passed away," I broke the news to him.


    "Passed away? When did this happen? How so suddenly?" Dad asked in shock, and Mom hurried over


    to find out what had happened. I recounted the details to them.


    Dad sighed, "She brought it upon herself!"


    After a few more words with my mom, she told me that Helga was flying back to Goldenvale Town


    tomorrow and I agreed to pick her up at the airport.


    "I''d love to join Helga on her visit to Goldenvale Town if I didn''t have things to take care of," Mom


    My main concern was their safety. I always worried that Dawson brothers were up to no good.


    Mom reassured me cheerfully, "Don''t worry! Ronan has arranged a personal assistant for your dad,


    and we''ve got a Brenda taking care of the house."


    She whispered conspiratorially, "She knows martial arts!"


    I perked up, telling Mom, "Well, once Carl gets his shots, I''ll bring him back for a longer visit. It''ll be just


    in time for the school year to start, and I''ll bring Fidelia back too. I want to make sure I hand her over to


    her mother personally."


    "That sounds good! And Fidelia is such a sweet child, very likable!" Mom praised her.


    "It''s just a shame they''ve got a deadbeat dad!" I sighed.


    Mom, grateful for the turn of events, said, "It''s a good thing you got divorced, sparing us from that old


    I quickly told Mom, "Oddly enough, before she died, she entrusted me with all her savings and


    valuables. That''s everything she''d scrimped and saved for years!"


    "How much?" Mom asked, curious.


    I answered honestly, "There''s six hundred eighty thousand in savings, plus some jewelry. Altogether,


    it''s probably over a million."


    "That much? She really hoarded quite a bit!" Mom criticized.


    "I don¡¯t know why she suddenly gave it all to me? A pang of conscience?" I muttered to myself.


    Truth be told, I''d been wrestling with that question ever since I received it.


    "Exactly, Mom! You''re spot on!" I agreed.


    "Mom, don''t get worked up. The Dawson family is already drowning in debt. After everything''s settled,


    they''ll get what''sing to them. It''s lucky I''ve already moved the money!" I gloated. Co?tent of


    Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    I was so wise to have transferred that money into a new ount that very day.


    After hanging up the phone, I kept thinking about it. Did no one else know Hazel had that fortune?


    The news of my divorce, a victory without a battle, thrilled everyone in my social circle.


    But then, a surprising call cut through the buzz - it was from Jesper.

 Chapter 466

    Chapter 466


    "Aaliyah, let''s meet up, shall we? After all, we were once family!" Jesper asked with a politeness that


    seemed out of ce for the situation.


    After a moment of consideration, I agreed to meet him, and then he chose a run-of-the-mill coffee shop


    for our meeting.


    When I arrived, Jesper was already there, rising from his seat with an early smile when he saw me


    walk in. Yet, beneath that weing gesture, I could detect a shadow of something murky in his eyes.


    "Aaliyah!" he said, beaming as he approached. "It''s been ages!"


    "Sure has! Feels like we haven''t crossed paths in forever," I replied, returning the smile and making my


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    way to the table, and Hannah was waiting by the door.


    "So, what''s the big emergency?" I cut to the chase. Honestly, I didn''t think there was anything left to


    say between the Dawsons and me. Pure curiosity had driven me to see him.


    "It''s not so much an emergency, just... wanted to see you. Especially considering the whole debacle


    with Medsafe Liyah Inc.," he trailed off, seemingly struggling to find the right words. After a brief pause,


    he continued, "You founded Medsafe Liyah Inc., Aaliyah, and it crumbled in our hands. We let you


    down, failed to take it to new heights."


    I studied Jesper intently. Despite his motives, his words were a salve to the soul.


    I couldn''t help but offer a wry smile and a bit of banter, "Looks like you''re the first Dawson to speak a


    fair word. Thanks for that!"


    "I had to say it. Aaliyah, you''ve been a pir for the Dawsons. Regardless of how they''ve behaved,


    without you, I wouldn''t be where I am today. Sure, I''m back to square one, but I owe you a debt of


    gratitude," he said humbly.


    "Water under the bridge," I responded coolly. After all, I didn¡¯t know his true intention.


    I had witnessed the icy death stare in Jesper''s eyes firsthand. Certainly, finding a saint in a family akin


    to a devil''s circle just doesn''t add up.


    Besides, when he first joined Medsafe Liyah Inc. and snagged the managing director''s seat, he never


    once thanked me during the good times. Now that thepany''s copsed, his repentance seems a


    tadte.


    And I could never forget what he said to Jessica, "You can''t outy her!"


    That word, ''outy,'' left a bitter taste¡ªhow could it not?


    "Aaliyah, I know you and Jan got divorced. Honestly, it''s a damn shame! I hope you won''t mind if I


    still consider you as my family."


    "No problem," I replied, with a genuine smile.


    That''s the Dawson way¡ªeither they sweet-talk you into oblivion or damn you to hell with their words.


    He sighed, leaning back in his chair, andmented, "It''s like a nightmare, a curse... Everything''s gone."


    His expression was one of defeat.


    I couldn''t help but ask, "So, what''s next for you?"


    He gave a self-deprecating chuckle. "Who knows? Looks like Goldenvale Town doesn''t have a ce


    for me anymore. Who would hire me now? After I graduated, I thought Medsafe Liyah Inc. would be my


    stage to shine, but just as I was getting the hang of it, it all vanished. Maybe it''s fate. What''s not meant


    to be yours will never be."


    He then added, "I''ll figure it out after my mother''s funeral."


    "When''s that?" I inquired casually.


    "Day after tomorrow. Just a small family affair," he replied, his voice tinged with sorrow. "Aaliyah, will


    youe?"


    I shook my head. "It''s fine."


    But I made nomitment.  Dr?§Þan§àvels


    "I''ll see," I responded nomittally.


    As I weighed his true intentions, I couldn''t shake the feeling that his sorrow might just be crocodile


    tears.

 Chapter 467

    Chapter 467


    I gazed at Jesper''s countenance, trying to decipher the underlying intentions of his persistent urging for


    me to attend the funeral. There was no way I was going to buy his story.


    Shifting slightly, I made myself look utterly rxed, as if I hadn''t a care in the world, and probed, "To be


    brutally honest, even if I did show up, your mom wouldn''t be thrilled. Let''s face it, the Dawsons have


    never liked me! And now that Jan and I are divorced, it would be downright awkward for me to make


    an appearance."


    "Oh, Aaliyah, you''re overthinking it! You know how my mom is¡ªwhen has she been nice?" He tried to


    exin. But he was spot on; Hazel had never been nice to anyone.


    I offered a nomittal smile, not voicing any disagreement.


    "All these years, we¡¯re grateful for what you¡¯ve done. You know my mom¡ªshe might have a sharp


    tongue, but she''s clear-sighted. Otherwise, why would she entrust you with anything?"


    An inner scoff escaped me, my suspicions confirmed. There it was¡ªthe ulterior motive.


    Without skipping a beat, I replied, "What she gave me wasn''t a gift; she wanted me to buy a burial plot


    for her grandson, Evan. That puzzled me too. Why on earth she insisted I handle it is beyond me.


    Honestly, it''s thest thing I should be dealing with!"


    I didn''t shy away from the subject, stating it outright.


    "The truth is, I suspect she was trying to torture me. After all, that child is a thorn in my side, whether


    he''s your brother''s seed or Jan''s, it doesn''t matter to me.


    Not to mention, they were the catalyst for this whole mess. Now, they''ve both met their end, but at the


    cost of Medsafe Liyah Inc. Jesper, don''t you think that''s a hefty price to pay?"


    I didn''t mince my words, but I needed Jesper to feel the weight of it too. I knew him well enough to


    know he treasured Medsafe Liyah Inc.¡ªit had given him a most respectable position, that of General


    Manager!


    As expected, Jesper''s expression soured, his nod filled with resignation. "You''re right, Aaliyah."


    I piled on the pressure, bringing Zora and Jessica into the mix.


    "Yet your mother handed this task off to me. That day, out of concern for her grave injuries and frail


    state, I took on the responsibility without much thought. And then there''s Zora and Jessica, badgering


    me with their insolence. I was too incensed toply. But upon leaving, it just felt inappropriate."


    Having made my point, I reached for my bag, unzipped it, and pulled out the small wallet Hazel had


    given me, sliding it across the table toward him. Calm and collected, I said, "This is what your mother


    left. It seems more fitting for you to have it. After all, you''re the kid''s uncle. Out of the whole Dawson


    n, you''re the most reliable. You handle it.


    It''s perfect timing, too, with Hazel gone. She adored that grandson, considered him the apple of her


    eye. You can bury them together; having her beloved grandchild by her side will surely bring her joy."


    My words were impably crafted, the rationale more than sufficient. Jesper couldn''t possibly refuse.


    Not that he would¡ªhe''de for this very reason.


    But to sessfully give him an out while offloading this hot potato was a win for me.


    And today, that precaution paid off.


    Jesper immediately adopted a regretful demeanor, waving his hands dismissively, "Aaliyah, you''ve got


    it all wrong! That wasn''t my intention! You misunderstood me!"


    I nodded with full understanding, my tone gentle and kind, "I get it, I know you''re a sensible man. The


    mere fact you''re discussing this with me today shows you have a tender heart. That''sforting to


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    know. At least there''s someone sensible in the Dawson family. I''m content with that. I haven''t


    overthought."  Dr?§Þan§àvels


    Iid out my opinion of Jessica quite vividly, leaving no stone unturned.

 Chapter 468

    Chapter 468


    Although I had voiced my concerns, I couldn''t shake off the worry about Jesper''sck of initiative. So, I


    continued, "You know, Jesper, that kid is honestly in a tough spot. What does he have to do with the


    grown-ups'' mess? Yet he''s caught in the middle of it. I feel bad!"


    My face twisted with sorrow. "That''s why doing a good deed, like buying him a proper burial plot, is the


    right thing to do. Your mom got that part right. I''m counting on you for this. Consider it thest favor you


    do for me."


    He tried to hedge, but I cut him off, "I trust you the most. Please, just take care of it, alright?"


    Afterying it out, I turned to Jesper, "I have to go to the airport to pick up Carl. We''ll catch up another


    time!"


    I stood up, ready to leave, when a thought struck me. "Oh... almost forgot!"


    I borrowed a pen from the server and scrawled a number on a napkin. "This is Detective Dalton''s


    number. Get in touch about the kid''s remains. If you can arrange for him to be buried with his grandma,


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    that''d be perfect."


    "Aaliyah, wait, I haven''t finished talking to you about..." Jesper started, clearly wanting more time.


    "I¡¯m really sorry, but I¡¯m alreadyte. Let''s chat some other day," I said, shing a smile and waving


    goodbye before turning to leave.


    The smile dropped the moment I faced away, my inner voice scoffing, ''Trying to y me for a fool?


    You''re not there yet, buddy.''


    Hannah and I got into the car, and she couldn''t suppress her chuckles, giving me a thumbs-up.


    "I''m seriously impressed. The money in that ount should cover the burial costs. You''ve done more


    than enough," Hannah said with admiration. "Aren''t you worried they''ll check the card?"


    "Don''t worry. I''ve made sure they can''t trace it. Plus, I didn''t give them back that ID!" I replied with


    disdain. "I bet Hazel had another ID."


    Hannah looked at me in amazement. "How can you be so sure?"


    "Think about it. How could they have managed her discharge from the hospital without another ID? It''s


    a dead giveaway. Either she had a spare ID, or they got some temporary paperwork in order to


    proceed with the arrangements," I said confidently.


    "You''re spot on! They''ve already set the funeral date, which means they''ve dealt with the funeral home,


    and nobody''s mentioned an ID. It''s likely as you guessed. Allie, you''re brilliant!"


    Hannah gave me an approving look and added, "By not returning Hazel''s ID, they''d never guess you


    had it. Since you never had it, how could you have ess to her band ount?!"


    I smiled slightly, "You''re smart too! But I''ve got to hand it to Hazel¡ªcrafty enough to have two IDs."


    "It''s easy, report one lost and get a recement," Hannah remarked before probing further, "Did you


    anticipate this beforeing? Did you expect Jesper to ask for the ID?"


    Her question wasced with suspicion.


    Hannah burst intoughter at my analogy. "Allie, you really know them well!"


    "They''re about to be homeless, so they''re wracking their brains for any possibility. That wallet''s a


    curse," I snorted. "So, I took the chance to wash my hands of it. Smartest move." Updated at


    Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    "Damn, no wonder you started Medsafe Liyah Inc., you are so smart" Hannah praised.

 Chapter 469

    Chapter 469


    When Hannah hit me with that question, I pulled a shameless grin, "Well, that''s not my problem. I¡¯ve


    returned the wallet. How much money they can scrape together is none of my business. In their views,


    I don¡¯t have her damn ID! If I didn''t see it, I wouldn¡¯t know her assets, right?"


    I threw up my hands in a gesture of innocence. Hannah couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, "that¡¯s right!"


    "I bet none of them have a clue how much Hazel actually had stashed away. Otherwise, they wouldn''t


    be so quiet," I spected.


    "Exactly, otherwise Jessica would''ve been after you!" Hannah nodded in agreement, "But then again,


    Jessica is so dumb. Otherwise, how could she not know about her own mom''s loot?"


    "That''s the selfishness of the Dawson n for you. Does Hazel really not know the pack of clowns


    she''s raised? If Jessica knew about her savings, she''d have swiped everything by now. Ever heard the


    saying ''there''s nothing worse than a thief within the family''?" I snarked.


    "Do you think they''ll catch onter? After all, when they went through Hazel¡¯s stuff, there was nothing!


    No money, no valuables!" Hannah said, spreading her hands while driving.


    "What''s that got to do with me? I gave back whatever was given to me! No on can me me!" I said


    with a defiant smirk.


    " You were quick on the uptake, no hesitation, just action!" Hannahughed contentedly.


    "It was your teamwork that was on point. We figured out the mystery in no time, found our target


    without breaking a sweat!"


    "Give me a break! It was your sharp thinking that discovered the secret in the wallet, and you


    connected the dots instantly. You¡¯re the one with the decisive moves."


    Weplimented each other andughed heartily as the car sped towards the airport.


    We were early than scheduled, so we settled down in a coffee shop, both in high spirits.


    Hannah whispered, "I just can''t wrap my head around why Hazel suddenly handed you that wallet. She


    must''ve known what was in there."


    I was just as baffled, "That''s what I can''t figure out either. But the more I think about it, the more I feel


    like Hazel''s actions weren''t impulsive or the result of confusion. When she saw me that day, she didn¡¯t


    curse me at all. Her eyes were surprised, but not angry.


    Especially when she handed me the wallet, she was so certain, ''Take it, it¡¯s all yours, use this money...''


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She didn¡¯t finish her sentence, but her expression was one of relief, like she was genuinely happy to


    give it to me."


    Hannah nodded, "She even put her ID inside, it had to be genuine!"


    "It felt like a weight was lifted from her shoulders when she saw me take it... that''s the vibe I got," I


    recalled.


    "Yeah, if those things had ended up in the hands of her children, nothing would be left!" Hannah said,


    "Let it go, perhaps it was her conscience."


    "Sure!" I agreed, but then added, "Isn¡¯t it fate, though? If I hadn''t bumped into Zora that day, if she


    hadn''t provoked me with her words, if I hadn''t gone to see Hazel, would all this be nothing?"


    "Exactly, her death was unexpected, she couldn''t have predicted she''d die that day! It all seems


    destined. It feels like everything is predetermined!"


    "That''s so true! Gives me the creeps!" I said, but deep down, I felt there was more to Hazel giving me


    her belongings.


    We sipped our coffee, chatting sporadically.


    Suddenly, Hannah nudged me. I turned to look at her and she subtly indicated a direction with a slight


    tilt of her head. Following her finger, I was shocked to see ra.


    My pupils shrank as I said, "ra?"


    It had been a while since I''d seen her. And she still owed me for lying to me for Catherine Damon.


    There she was, ra''s lean figure with a backpack, walking calmly through the crowd with a burly man


    by her side.


    I frowned immediately, and Hannah asked, confused, "What''s wrong?"


    "Are you sure?" Hannah''s eyes sharpened.


    I nodded without hesitation, "Sure, I¡¯d recognize that silhouette anywhere!" New ch?pter av?ble o?


    Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Hannah nced at her phone, "We''re running out of time, I''ll go. You head to the arrivals gate!"


    "Don''t worry, I know his face!" With that, Hannah swiftly followed them.

 Chapter 470

    Chapter 470


    It seemed that ra might actually be with Jerome. But weren''t they being a bit too brazen? Jerome


    was a wanted man, and yet he had the audacity to show up at the airport?


    No, something didn''t add up.


    Who was that with ra just now? I couldn''t have mistaken Jerome''s silhouette.


    Besides, with Hazel''s funeral the day after tomorrow, if Jerome dared to show up, he wouldn''t miss his


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    mother''s funeral. So what was the meaning of them being at the airport at this time?


    This was definitely fishy.


    Even if Jerome wanted to flee, he would surely wait until after Hazel''s funeral.


    As I walked towards the arrivals gate, I couldn''t shake my suspicions.


    What if Jerome did show up at the funeral? With that thought, I quickly pulled out my phone and dialed


    Ronan to share what I had seen and what I knew.


    "Rx," he assured me over the phone, "we''ve got people at the airport! And we''re aware of Hazel''s


    funeral arrangements. You just focus on picking up the kids!"


    Feeling a bit more at ease, I replied, "Alright then. I won''t keep you, it''s about time."


    After hanging up, it wasn''t long before Hannah came rushing back, shaking her head. "Nope, I saw his


    face clearly, it''s not Jerome!"


    "Are you sure?" I was surprised. The resemnce was uncanny, from the way he walked to his build.


    Could I really have been mistaken?


    Just then, the loudspeaker announced that Helga''s flight hadnded.


    I collected myself and, with Hannah in tow, craned my neck to see inside, wondering if Carl had been


    well-behaved on his first long journey without me. Even with Helga there, I was a bit anxious.


    Soon, Helga called to say they were on their way out. Only then did I learn that my mother, worried as


    ever, had sent Brenda along as well.


    It was my first time meeting Brenda, a woman in her forties with a sharp, keen presence. One nce


    told you she was no ordinary woman.


    When Carl saw me, his face broke into a wide grin, and he stretched out his chubby little arms,


    excitedly calling, "Mommy, give me a hug!"


    I scooped him up and nted a big kiss on his cheek, which made him giggle and squirm with delight


    in my arms, obviously thrilled to be home.


    "Was baby good on the trip?" I asked him.


    Holding out his tiny fingers in a solemn gesture, he replied, "Baby good!"


    "Such a good boy!" I kissed him again, and he nuzzled my face in return.


    Our group made our way out to where Hannah had gone to fetch the car.


    But as I turned around, I locked eyes with ra. She must not have expected me to look back so


    suddenly and quickly averted her gaze, slipping away swiftly.


    With Carl in my arms, I couldn''t chase after her; I could only watch as she ran away.


    I cursed under my breath, vowing to catch her eventually.


    Hannah''s car pulled up, we hop on and left the airport.


    I was taken aback. My boy still remembered Zora!


    "No Zora," I said with a hint of irritation. "Just mommy and Helga."


    He tugged at me, insisting, "Want Zora! Baby want Zora!"


    I sighed internally. I had assumed that after twenty days apart, he would have forgotten about Zora.


    Yet, now that he was back home, it seemed the memories hade flooding back. Read at


    Helga, pulling out some of Carl''s clothes, chimed in, "He''d mention her now and then at his grandma''s."


    I felt a twinge of jealousy. "Kids always favor those who spoil them."


    "No kidding. They may be small, but they sure do remember."


    Helga chuckled. "Give it some time. Out of sight, out of mind, he¡¯ll forget eventually."

 Chapter 471

    Chapter 471


    The next day.


    After getting Carl the shots, I swung by to check on Catherine. She had recovered a lot.


    I teased her, "I¡¯ve been gone for two days and Logan had been taking good care of you!"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    She was entertaining little Carl and shot back, "Oh, don''t you start. That man hasn''t been around


    enough to cast a shadow, busy as a bee he is!"


    No sooner had Catherine spoken than Logan''s voice boomed through the room, "Who are you


    badmouthing about?"


    With that, he sauntered in, with a big grin on his face, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you¡¯d miss me this much¡±


    Catherine''s cheeks red up like Fourth of July fireworks, and she retorted, "Miss you? In your dreams!


    Get out of here!"


    Logan ignored her quip, his attention swept away by Carl on the hospital bed, "Who is this little on?"


    Carl, clinging to familiarity, darted into my arms, casting wary nces at Logan.


    I nudged him to greet Logan, but he was reluctant, burrowing into me, silent as a church mouse.


    Logan reached out, "C''mon, let''s get acquainted!"


    Carl responded by burying his face deeper into my chest.


    Logan, resigned, patted his little behind, "Tough nut, aren''t ya? Not the spitting image of your mom,


    that''s for sure!"


    Iughed, hugging Carl tight, "Carl is unique. Gotta problem with that?"


    Logan straightened up, turning serious, "I''ve nearly cracked Jta''s case. It''s not as coincidental as it


    seems."


    I was taken aback, "Just like we thought?"


    "It''s more than that," he said with a nod.


    Helga, sensing the shift in conversation, scooped up Carl, "I''ll take the little one to the garden for some


    fresh air. It''s stuffy in here."


    I nodded, and Hannah followed suit. I pressed Logan for more, "Any ties to Irving?"


    I''d been itching to ask him about it, especially after Janice mentioned it recently and felt awkward


    bringing it up with Logan. Turns out, he was already on the case.


    Logan confirmed with a nod, "Pretty much, but the driver from back then is no longer in the country!"


    "He skipped town?" I was disappointed.


    "Dramatic, isn''t it? He''s not in the country, but he''s still in the game," Logan said, taking a big swig from


    Catherine''s water ss.


    "What do you mean?" Both Catherine and I were all ears.


    Logan smirked at our eagerness, "Yearster, that driver became Nettie''s butler."


    "What?" Catherine and I gasped in unison, "How did you find out? Are you sure?"


    "We started with the driver. DUI, arrested, convicted, no issues there. Norge sums of money traced


    to him during that time," Logan exined.


    "That meticulous?" I was stunned.


    "Yep," he nodded, "But Irving was hellbent on no settlements ¨C just wanted the guy behind bars."


    "Fake sympathy," Catherine interjected.


    I waited for Logan to continue. Re§Ñd at Dra§Þan§àvels


    "How did you stumble upon this?" I asked, incredulous, "Irving''s setting this up is just... despicable.


    Didn''t he care about his daughter''s safety?"


    "He vanished into thin air?" I echoed, astounded by the unfolding drama.

 Chapter 472

    Chapter 472


    "So, we switched gears!" Logan said with a nonchnt air. "We dug into Olivia, then Irving, and finally


    circled back to Nettie. Took us some time, though."


    "But in the end, it was Nettie who led you to the breakthrough?" Catherine pressed.


    "Yeah! Looked into Nettie, then the people around her. Turned out Nettie had switched her


    housekeeper, and when we checked the current housekeeper''s background, boom! Lucius had a new


    identity¡ªEamon Thornton. His wife and son had new names too. Their son, now going by Alcott


    Thornton, was even ssmates with Nettie."


    "Holy smokes..." Catherine gasped, "I should get Janice in on this!"


    "Let''s not bother her today. I''ll gather the info and we can call herter, or just have a chat," Logan


    suggested, stopping Catherine.


    I quickly asked, "This Irving guy is so sly! It just shows how cautious and meticulous he is!"


    "It depends on who he''s up against!" Logan replied confidently. "He got impatient, that''s all."


    "Lucius, or I should say Eamon, had some personal dealings with Irving. They met when Irving was out


    on a sales run. Eamon had some car trouble and got jumped, but Irving came to his rescue. They''ve


    kept in touch ever since... you know, the kind of bond that forms when someone''s got your back in a


    tight spot. And then they end up in cahoots."


    "Right, and Nettie''s pretty chummy with Eamon''s kid, almost like they''re dating," Logan added. "The


    kid''s name is Alcott Thornton!"


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Catherine and I exchanged a look, a chill running down our spines. What a mess!


    "It''s all because of Irving''s meddling!" Catherine fumed. "Look at Nettie, turning out just like her no-


    good father!"


    To be honest, I felt gutted. If Nettie ever found out the guy she loved was the son of her mother''s killer, I


    couldn''t even bear to think about it!


    "If Jta finds out, she''ll be beside herself with rage," Catherine sighed.


    Logan turned to me. "Hazel''s funeral is tomorrow, you''re not considering...?"


    I shrugged. "Thest thing I want is to deal with that. I''ve finally got some distance from it all; what else


    could I possibly want?"


    "Hmm," Logan grunted nomittally.


    I could tell he had something on his mind, so I probed, "What are you thinking?"


    "Nothing." he denied.


    "If you''ve got an idea, spit it out!" I encouraged him.


    "We have a hunch Jerome will show up," Logan finally said.


    "So, do we try and catch him?" I asked.


    "No, we let him go, make him run!" Logan dered.


    "Why?" I inquired.


    "To bait a bigger fish," he answered sinctly.


    I shared the details of my meeting with Jesper earlier that day, and after a long look, Logan said,


    "There''s something... you might be the right person to handle it."


    "Then out with it," I said, unfazed.


    "Ronan doesn''t agree," Logan admitted, leaning back in his chair, hands behind his head, lost in


    thought.


    "Let''s hear it," I urged Logan.


    "I thought we weren''t making a move?" I countered.


    "We need to pressure Jerome, make him feel cornered. He won''t make a move until he''s desperate.


    And we need someone to deliver that message, someone who can really shake him up."


    "That someone sounds like it''s gotta be me," I said quietly. Re?d at Dr?m§Ñ?§àv§Öls


    She then turned to Logan, her frustration clear, "Logan, are you out of your mind? You''re sending her


    in? Do you have any idea what kind of people the Dawsons are?"


    Catherine''s words extinguished Logan''s fiery resolve, and he fell silent.


    I sat in silence too, then finally looked up at Logan. "I''ll do it."

 Chapter 473

    Chapter 473


    The next morning, I arrived at the funeral, d in a sleek ck dress, clutching a bouquet of white


    chrysanthemums. The Dawsons were visibly taken aback by my presence, their eyes wide with shock.


    Even Jesper, who had warmly invited me just the day before, looked utterly baffled.


    The quaint parlor where the service was held felt cramped with only a few Dawsons scattered around.


    The setup was modest, to say the least¡ªa surprise, considering how Hazel always prided herself on


    grandeur. This final farewell didn''t seem to reflect that.


    My gaze swept the room andnded on Cami. Her reaction was also one of shock at my arrival, and


    she imperceptibly stepped backward. I merely sent her an enigmatic smile, my face otherwise


    unreadable.


    However, my attention quickly shifted to the robust figure standing protectively in front of her.


    Without giving him a second nce, I focused instead on the framed photo disyed prominently in


    the room. Hazel''s face, round and beaming, seemed to watch over each of us, her smile a final parting


    gesture.


    Before I could look away, Jessica, lunged towards me. Someone tried to hold her back but to no avail.


    She approached me, her eyes red with rage. "What are you doing here? Who let you in?"


    Her re was fierce, her eyes bloodshot, presumably from crying. I couldn''t help but smirk internally.


    So dramatic.


    When I didn''t respond, she reached out as if to grab me, but I caught her wrist and met her eyes with


    an icy stare. "Are you really going to make a scene here? Because I don''t mind."


    I nced at Jesper and whispered to her, "Your brother was right. You can''t beat me."


    With that, I flung her hand away, and she stumbled back.


    Next came Jan, his face stern and his dark suit adding to his ominous air. His piercing eyes locked


    on me as he said coldly, "Aaliyah, this is the Dawson family''s mourning. You''re no longer one of us, so


    you shouldn¡¯t be here."


    I turned to face him, my smile sardonic. "I came to pay my respects on behalf of the kids, to say


    goodbye to their grandmother. What, you''re going to deny me that, too?"


    Jan stood rigid, a storm of emotions ying across his face. I looked past him with disdain and


    addressed the room. "Anyone else have a problem? Speak now. Let''s not waste any more time."


    Jessica couldn''t contain herself, her voice rising. "Stop with the fake pity! You''ve never had good


    intentions!"


    Her cousin held her back as she made to lunge at me again.


    "Cut it out, Jessica! You think everyone''s as heartless as you. If it weren''t for you, Hazel might still be


    alive. You think we don''t know about what you did? How you silenced all those mouths at the hospital?"


    I derided her openly. "You''ve already sent Hazel to her grave. Haven''t you learned anything? Or are


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    you looking to wreck her funeral too?"


    I was there to cause a stir, with words, not actions.


    "You''re lying! Don''t pin that on me!" Jessica thrashed, infuriated by my usations.


    "If it weren''t for your brainless act of transferring that huge sum of money, would Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    have copsed?" I hit her where it hurt. "You might as well prepare for prison."


    Jan echoed hermand, "Aaliyah, get off the Dawson property. Now!"


    "The Dawsons? Oh, how mighty! You should all be thanking me. Without me, would you even be


    standing here with dignity?"


    Jessica, fuming, attempted to charge at me but was held back by Jesper. Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    "Aaliyah, that''s enough!" Jessica struggled against Jesper''s grip, teeth clenched.


    "Quiet! As long as Jerome''s here, it''s not your ce to speak to me!" I turned to face the tall man


    ahead of Cami, Jerome!

 Chapter 474

    Chapter 474


    From the moment I walked into the room, I spotted him, but his face... it was the same one Hannah had


    captured on her camera at the airport just two days ago.


    When I softly called out "Jerome," his eyes narrowed sharply, fixating on me with a steely gaze.


    I looked at him, a teasing smirk ying on my lips, and said coolly, "You think a new face can fool me,


    Jerome? No matter the disguise, you can''t hide. You''ve been out too often; you really think the police


    wouldn''t notice?"


    His expression was odd, his pupils constricted, yet his face remained eerily motionless.


    "I knew it was you the second I saw you at the airport," I said with mock gravity.


    Jasper, who was desperately holding onto a struggling Jessica, glowered at me and spat, "Aaliyah,


    you''d better keep your mouth shut!"


    "Oh... is that a threat?" I locked eyes with Jasper. "You¡¯ve finally dropped the act, Jesper."


    My n wasn''t just about riling up Jerome; it was about infuriating the Dawsons. Only by sowing seeds


    of resentment among them could they possibly be even more foolish.


    "My silence is irrelevant; after all, the police don''t take orders from me!"


    Jan grabbed my arm with vicious fury, ring at me with pure rage. Hannah, who was right behind


    me, stepped forward, but before she could intervene, Jerome''s voice cut through, "Let her speak."


    Jan, seething with anger, violently released my arm. I stumbled to one side, regained my bnce,


    and brushed over the spot where he had grabbed. Then, I shifted my gaze back to Jerome, our eyes


    meeting once again.


    "Jerome, don''t you think that Hazel lying here today is your doing?" I took a step towards him. "As the


    eldest of the Dawsons, your conduct has been disgraceful, leading your siblings astray. You believed a


    nanny''s nders and killed your own flesh and blood, causing Hazel to take her own life, while you just


    walked away. Do you really think you can escape?"


    Jerome''s gaze darkened at my words, his fists clenching tighter.


    "Getting angry with me is pointless! Do you know who kidnapped your son in the first ce?" I


    challenged him, my eyes filled with defiance. "You''re such a fool, yed for a sucker, even killing your


    own son! You''re worse than a beast!"


    I''d been itching tosh out at him, and today I finally had my chance.


    "That sweet boy, the night he died, he came to me soaking wet to say goodbye! With his big watery


    eyes, he said, ''I''m leaving! Don''t look for me! They won''t feed me, they beat me, and tell me to keep


    quiet. I have to go! I don''t know where, but someone ising to get me!''"


    "You''re lying!" Jan finally erupted with a roar, like a wild beast in its final throes.


    "Lying? The same night you had your goons kidnap me, they shoved me into a drain pipe, and that''s


    when the boy came to say farewell! He told me not to look for him anymore. Such a good boy, and you


    didn''t deserve him."


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He looked at me, his eyes redder with bloodshot fury.


    A strange silence fell over everyone in the room, including the previously ranting Jessica.


    "Do you know? Zora is the mastermind behind all this drama. She''s been your brother''s trusted advisor.


    Your siblings went to all the trouble of swapping Evan''s DNA results, and you believe ra, the woman


    by your side, is some innocent little doe?" Iughed darkly. Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    Jerome''s breathing becamebored, his eyes shifting to Jan with a coldness that spoke volumes.

 Chapter 475

    Chapter 475


    I not only ruffled Jerome''s feathers but also turned to Jan with a smirk, "Oh... and speaking of which!


    Jan, where''s Zora today? Shouldn¡¯t she be standing beside you? This seems like the perfect ce


    for a show of force, don''t you think?"


    My words, of course, were a barb aimed at Cami.


    "Cut the crap!" Jan snapped, his patience at its end.


    Jessica saw her chance and jumped in, stirring the pot, "Jan, if it weren''t for her swiping mom''s


    wallet, I wouldn''t have had that fight with Zora!"


    I couldn''t help but let out a snort ofughter, "Jerome, did you hear that? Your sister finally admitted!"


    Jerome shot Jessica a frigid nce, making her involuntarily shiver and take a step back.


    "Jerome, do you know why your mother handed me her wallet?" I asked, locking eyes with him before


    pointing at Jesper, "You might want to have a chat with your little brother here!"


    Jesper''s gaze faltered.


    "Jerome, you''ve been dreaming of pulling the strings at Medsafe Liyah Inc., but your pathetic little


    brother knows nothing but fooling around with women.


    Not only did he destroyed the Medsafe Liyah Inc., but he also cost you the two people closest to you¡ª


    one, your brilliant son, and the other, your mother who truly loved you. And the mastermind behind it all


    has vanished without a trace."


    Jerome, pushed past his limits, stepped forward furiously and pped Jan hard across the face,


    leaving a scarlet streak blooming at the corner of his mouth. But Jan didn''t dare retaliate, just met


    my gaze with an opaque storm of emotions swirling in his eyes.


    "Oh, and this good for nothing..." I nodded towards Jan, continuing to needle Jerome, "He probably


    didn''t tell you about the opportunity he blew that could have catapulted Medsafe Liyah Inc. to the top, a


    partnership with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals? If it worked out..."


    I let my voice trail off tantalizingly, "but he blew it already. Jerome, and you can''t escape it now!"


    "What have you done?" Jerome''s hawk-like eyes bore into me as if I were prey, "Aaliyah, did you bring


    the cops here?"


    "Jerome, you''re overthinking it! Like I said, I''m just here to pay my respects!" I retorted and moved


    forward to ce a bouquet of white chrysanthemums on Hazel''s casket.


    Regardless of everything, respect for the deceasedes first.


    Having said my piece, I turned to leave, "I''ve said my goodbyes! You all can carry on."


    With that, I walked towards the exit.


    Suddenly, four men dressed in ck emerged from nowhere, blocking the door.


    Jerome, radiating anger, confronted me, "What exactly have you done?"


    Hannah stepped protectively to my side. I took a step forward, staring Jerome down defiantly,


    "Scared?"


    "Since you dare to show up, then speak your mind!" Jerome hissed, "This isn''t a ce where you can


    "Don¡¯t be so dramatic!" I scoffed at him, "Thew isn''t after you because of me!"


    I dismissed him with contempt, "I told you, I''m here solely to escort Hazel on herst journey! You think


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    you''re the only one with a brain? You¡¯re better off watching your back. Don''t outsmart yourself. If I were


    you, I''d pay my respects and skedaddle! What you''ve done¡ªyou know it better than anyone."


    Our gazes locked in a standoff, neither of us willing to back down, the tension palpable.


    Even with Hannah by my side, my heart raced.


    But I knew, now more than ever, that I couldn''t afford to lose my stand!


    I spoke evenly to Jerome, "This is Hazely''s wake. You know what''s appropriate."


    Jan, finally catching on, took an aggressive step forward, "What did you mean by that?" Co?tent of


    Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    I looked at him with disdain, enunciating each word, "Medsafe Liyah Inc. is out of your reach. It''s still


    mine!"


    Jan let out a roar of denial, "That''s impossible!"


    I sneered and walked away confidently. The four men bristled with hostility and moved in on me, but


    Hannah quickly stepped in front of me.

 Chapter 476

    Chapter 476


    The atmosphere in the wake house was already thick with a chilling unease when the sudden


    interruption sent Jessica screaming at the top of her lungs.


    I couldn''t help but chuckle darkly, "Seems like even Hazel can''t stand this nonsense. Oh, you want to


    keep me? I''m game. But as for whether the cops wille knocking, well, that''s beyond me. Jerome,


    you think strutting around with that face doesn''t attract attention? Maybe it''s time you test the waters


    with the police. You killed your own son and thinking you can get away with it? That''s stupidity!"


    I took a step forward, and the four men were still blocking my path, appearing like they stepped out of a


    horror movie scene. Unflinching, I roared, "Move it!"


    Themand carried an authority that silenced the entire wake in an instant.


    After a moment, Jerome said tly, "Let her go."


    I snorted disdainfully and didn''t linger, striding out the door into the dazzling light of dawn.


    Outside, Hannah spat disgustedly, "What a curse! That Jan, I swear, I''ll deck him every time I see


    him. The way he looks at you, where''s the love that once was in ten years of marriage?"


    "It''s better this way, more satisfying when the timees to settle scores! Once the killing intent is


    there, there''s no talking about affection. And there''ll be plenty of chances to deal with him. He won''t


    give up easily, he''lle at us again," I said to Hannah. "Now that we''ve dangled the bait of VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals, Jerome will be desperate to grab the opportunity."


    Just then, Larkin pulled the car around, but as I was about to step in, my phone rang with a piercing


    urgency.


    Hannah quickly handed me my bag from inside the car, and I retracted my foot, finding the phone. It


    was Helga calling, so I quickly slid to answer, "Hello?"


    "Miss, there''s been trouble..." To my surprise, it was Brenda on the line, her voiceced with urgency.


    I tensed up and demanded, "What happened?"


    "The young master has been taken!" Brenda eximed.


    Those words hit me like a thunderbolt, "Carl?"


    "Yes, the young master had finished breakfast and was fussing to see his mother. Helga took him to the


    front yard to y; it wasn''t even ten minutes when Helga was attacked, and the young master was


    gone! I was cleaning up the kitchen when I heard a car speed away. I realized something was wrong.


    By the time I got outside, Helga was lying on the ground with a head injury!"


    "Did you hear any crying from Carl?" I asked on impulse.


    "No! Just the screech of a car speeding off. That''s when I ran outside!" Brenda was thorough in her


    ount.


    At Brenda''s words, I urged Hannah into the car and said into the phone, "We''re on our way back!


    How''s Helga?"


    "She''s been knocked out cold from a blow to the head and hasn''t woken up. I''ve called for an


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ambnce!" Brenda sounded frantic.


    "Got it! Take care of Helga," I said and hung up, turning to Larkin and Hannah, "We need to get home


    fast, Carl''s in trouble!"


    Larkin mmed on the gas, and the car surged forward.


    I immediately called Ronan and blurted out, "Carl''s in danger!"


    "When did this happen?" Ronan asked promptly.


    "Just now! In front of the house. Helga was attacked and Carl is missing! Brenda didn''t hear any cries, I


    suspect... it was Zora''s doing!"


    I had a reason to think so. If it had been a stranger, Carl would have cried because he''s shy with new


    people.


    "Alright, I''m on it. Don''t worry, I''ll start tracking," Ronan replied before hanging up.


    Ronan''s assurance gave me a flicker of calm.


    "We''ve been toocent," Hannah murmured.


    Taking Carl would not only be revenge against me but also a way to leverage Jan, forcing Jerome to


    back down.  Dra§Þanovels.c§àm


    In a sh, it hit me ¨C ra. She had seen me at the airport two days ago, weing Carl home.


    That meant ra had to be in cahoots with Zora! That''s how she knew Carl was back in Goldenvale


    Town.


    Those two sisters, they were genuine devils - relentlessly demonic to the core.

 Chapter 477

    Chapter 477


    The car pulled into the neighbourhood, and I made a beeline for the management office. Brenda was


    already there, pacing like a caged lion. And beside her, wrapped in a head bandage, was Helga!


    She went pale as a ghost when she saw me and immediately burst into tears. ¡°Miss, I''m so sorry, I... I


    lost little Carl!¡±


    I patted her back gently, trying to soothe her. ¡°It''s not your fault, Helga. Stop crying and tell me what


    happened.¡±


    Between sobs, Helga recounted the morning. ¡°Little Carl woke up and wouldn¡¯t stop calling for you.


    After I fed him his breakfast and we waited by the front gate for you. Everything was fine until I saw a


    car speeding towards us. Fearing for Carl''s safety, I grabbed him to head back inside. That''s when


    someone came running up from behind. I barely had a chance to turn around before something hit me


    on the head, and everything went ck.¡±


    Brenda cut in, her voice firm. ¡°I''ve checked the security footage. It was a woman who took Carl away!¡±


    I rushed over to the security staff and asked to see the footage again.


    On the screen, Helga was holding Carl''s hand, heading back inside, when a red car screeched to a halt


    in front of them. The woman who got out was Zora, wielding something in her hand. She struck Helga,


    who crumpled to the ground. Zora then scooped up Carl and disappeared into the car.


    ¡°Unbelievable,¡± the security guard cursed under his breath. ¡°Nothing like this has ever happened in our


    As I watched the video, I saw Carl wrap his little arms tightly around Zora¡¯s neck. My heart twisted


    painfully at the sight.


    Then I noticed Zora hadn¡¯t driven herself; she¡¯d gotten into the passenger seat. That meant there was


    an aplice, likely Maddox.


    Rewinding the footage, we saw the car had entered theplex much earlier. ¡°She nned this,¡±


    Brenda said, ¡°and I''ve already sent the video to Mr. Richardson.¡±


    I nodded and called Ronan, who took a while to pick up. ¡°Any news on the car?¡± I asked urgently.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°They left theplex and headed towards the outskirts of Goldenvale Town but haven¡¯t left the city.


    We''re still searching,¡± Ronan replied.


    ¡°They¡¯re making a move to leave Goldenvale Town with my son,¡± I said, panic edging my voice.


    ¡°Stay calm. We''ve set up roadblocks. Wait for my news,¡± Ronan advised.


    Hanging up, I felt an overwhelming sense of helplessness.


    Helga, seeing my distress, was crying in a corner, filled with remorse and kept murmuring, ¡°I should


    never have taken Carl outside.¡±


    Hannah tried tofort me. ¡°Allie, let''s go home. Larkin and I will check around.¡±


    Brenda nodded, and Larkin drove us back home before he and Hannah sped off to join the search.


    Logan called me just then. ¡°Allie!¡± he eximed.


    ¡°What?¡± Logan gasped, clearly unaware. ¡°When did this happen?¡±


    ¡°A couple of hours ago,¡± I replied weakly. Re§Ñd at Dramanov§Öls


    ¡°Alright, all youter!¡± Logan said, and the line went dead.

 Chapter 478

    Chapter 478


    As the minutes ticked by, so did my heart¡ªsinking deeper with each passing second.


    Dusk broke, but I didn¡¯t get the news I was hoping for.


    Ronan came straight to my vi, and the moment he crossed the threshold, I felt my emotions crumble,


    thest vestiges of hope copsing into dust.


    I reined in my feelings as I looked at him, not daring to ask any questions.


    He didn''t try to sugar-coat it. "I''ve got no good news, Allie. We were toote. They''ve probably left


    Goldenvale Town by now!"


    Exhausted, I slumped onto the couch, a wave of sorrow washing over me. Not even the raw wounds of


    a decade-long marriage ending had prepared me for this despair.


    With my face buried in my hands, I wept in silence.


    Brenda¡¯s gentle voice reached my ears, "Ms. Wilburn hasn''t eaten in a day, Mr. Richardson. I share the


    me¡ªI should''ve never let Carl out of my sight!"


    "Now''s not the time for that," Ronan interjected. "How''s Helga?"


    "She''s pretty banged up, but she refused to go to the hospital. They just patched her up when the


    ambnce came, but now..." Brenda''s voice trailed off.


    Ronan approached me, cing aforting hand on my head as he gave it a gentle rub. "Allie, you


    need to be strong. Trust me, we will find your boy. It''s just a matter of time."


    Choking on my tears, I murmured, "I was careless... I should''ve seen iting. She''d target my Carl. I


    should''ve known back at the hospital."


    "What happened?" Ronan pressed.


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Lifting my tear-streaked face, I looked at him, "At the hospital, I saw Carl¡¯s photo as her phone''s


    screensaver, and her phone was full of them! I should''ve realized... Zora''s obsessed with Carl!"


    Ronan frowned. "She''s obsessed with Carl?"


    "Yes, ever since his birth, they drugged me, and she took over caring for him. Despite how ruthlessly


    she treated me, I can''t deny she was devoted to Carl. He relies on her too¡ªjust yesterday, back here,


    Carl was asking for ''Mommy Zora''. It¡¯s clear, Zora can¡¯t let go of him, and he can''t let go of her," I


    sobbed as I spoke.


    Ronan sat next to me. "We''ve contacted several Amethyst Acres and police stations along the route.


    Logan''s digging for information too. We''ll have a lead soon. Keep your emotions in check. If what


    you''re saying is true, I believe Zora won¡¯t harm him. Try not to worry too much."


    Just then, Hannah burst in, "Boss, we''ve confirmed they ditched the car for a bus on Springs Street, but


    the driver can''t remember when or where they got off. There were too many blind spots with no


    surveince. And we''re not the only ones looking for Zora¡ªanother group is on her trail!"


    Startled, I nced at Ronan, his expression grim.


    "I''m certain it''s Jerome¡¯s men. If they find Zora first..." I couldn''t finish the sentence.


    I nodded, but my heart felt hollow.


    This time of day, Carl would usually be romping around the living room or snuggled up to me, whining,


    "Mommy, I''m hungry!" Re?d at Dr?m§Ñ?§àv§Öls


    But today, the silence in the living room was deafening.


    I wondered if he was hungry now, if he was calling out for me.


    Even if Zora had obsession on Carl, he was my child. If she harbored any wicked thoughts... my Carl...

 Chapter 479

    Chapter 479


    The more I thought about it, the more fear wed at my insides, setting my nerves on edge. I was so


    pent up with frustration that I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs.


    Just then, my phone buzzed with Cami''s name shing on the screen. I couldn''t muster the energy to


    deal with her and ignored the call.


    But Cami was persistent. She called again, and with a sigh, I swiped to answer. Her voice came


    through, timid and hesitant, and it only served to irk me further. "What do you want," I said, my tone


    cold.


    She must have sensed the iciness in my voice because her words stumbled out even more nervously.


    "Um... Aaliyah, I... I..." she fumbled, and it was clear she was struggling to get to the point.


    "Just spit it out, Cami. You don''t have to beat around the bush with me," I coaxed with as much


    patience as I could muster. "I''m no longer one of the Dawsons. There''s no need to tiptoe around what


    you can or cannot say."


    My blunt words seemed to stun her into silence before she finally spoke again, "Aaliyah, I know you


    and Jan have split, and I''m happy for you. And I know you hate me, but I..."


    I cut her off, "No, you''re still part of the Dawson n, and there are some things beyond your control. I


    get it. If that''s what you wanted to talk about, then don''t worry. I have other things to..."


    But she interrupted, desperate not to lose the connection. "No, it''s not that. I know where Jerome is,


    and who he''s with!"


    I tensed, gripping the phone tighter, holding my breath as she rattled off an address. "He''s with that


    woman there. I lied to you about himing back because I was scared of him. He threatened me,


    and I felt powerless to leave him."Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    There was an authentic note of vulnerability in her voice. Living in fear of Jerome was her stark reality.


    "We have a daughter. What else could I do?" she continued, pouring out her worries. "But today, you


    made me sure that child was his son, and that he was killed by Jerome''s own hands. I can''t coddle him


    anymore. Let the police catch him, so I can live a normal life!"


    Cami''s revtion shocked me. I had thought she was content with enduring, unwilling to leave


    Jerome''s side. Yet, I still yed it safe, softening my voice, "I understand where you''reing from,


    but now that I''ve left the Dawsons behind, I want nothing to do with their mess. Whatever happens to


    them is none of my business anymore."


    "Oh... right," she said after a moment of silence. "Then I''ve got nothing else."


    "Alright then, thanks for trusting me," I said, trying to put her at ease about the children. "Don''t worry


    about Fidelia, I''ll bring her back after a few days, in time for school."


    Her relieved cheer was evident as we ended the call.


    Thinking over Cami''s words, I was surprised she had given up Jerome''s location. The woman she


    mentioned¡ªI wasn''t sure if it was ra or Renata¡ªbut one thing was clear: Jerome wasn''t alone.


    I quickly sent the address to Ronan.


    Ronan and I discussed my thoughts, and he took the chance to insist I eat something.


    The night was deep, and suddenly, a deluge of rain poured down. Re§Ñd at Dramanov§Öls

 Chapter 480

    Chapter 480


    He was chatting with Ronan when I came downstairs, and their gazes shifted to me as I approached.


    The conversation between them stopped abruptly.


    ¡°Allie, did you not sleep at all or is that a new makeup?¡± Logan still had the energy to joke.


    I shot back, annoyed, ¡°Could you sleep when knowing your kid was lost?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s got you so wound up? We¡¯re on it, aren¡¯t we? Look what it¡¯s done to us!¡± He pointed to his own


    face, indicating the bags under his eyes. ¡°We''ve been burning the midnight oil too.¡±


    True, the fatigue was clearly etched under his eyes.


    I offered a wry smile. ¡°Thanks for all you¡¯re doing. I¡¯m like a ma for trouble, it never ends. Who


    knows what¡¯s next?¡±


    ¡°Honestly, Allie¡­ Your words have a way ofing true, so zip it and give us a break!¡± Logan was


    joking, but his concern was genuine, and I appreciated it.


    ¡°Hey... Mind if I crash here for a bit?¡± Logan asked, his eyes bloodshot fromck of sleep.


    I gestured around the room. ¡°Pick a spot, any spot. This ce is big enough. But you¡¯ve got to eat


    something first. I¡¯ll whip up some eggs and warm milk¡ªhave a bite before you sleep.¡±


    Before I could head to the kitchen, he stopped me. ¡°Hold up... Just let me sleep on an empty stomach,


    I¡¯ll wake up sooner. Otherwise, who knows when I¡¯ll wake up? Aren¡¯t you in a hurry to find your son? If


    you¡¯re not, then I¡¯ll eat and sleep.¡±


    His words left me standing there, feeling helpless. Of course, I was desperate to find my son.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    After speaking his mind, Logan headed towards the hallway, calling back to me, ¡°Save the food for


    when I get up. I¡¯ll only sleep for a short while.¡±


    Watching his weary figure stumble away, my heart ached, but there was nothing I could do. My son


    was in the hands of a desperado; I needed these guys awake¡ªthey were my rock.


    I nced at Ronan, his face etched with exhaustion and deep in thought. I suggested, ¡°Maybe you


    should get some rest too?¡±


    He looked at me, his eyes sinking deeper. Rising to his feet, he ced his hands on my shoulders.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. I¡¯ve got some things to take care of outside. I promise I''ll take a break once we


    find your boy.¡±


    His words unexpectedly brought a lump to my throat.


    ¡°And there¡¯s the handover of Medsafe Liyah Inc. to deal with¡ªit¡¯s a lot,¡± he added.


    ¡°That soon?¡± I was surprised.


    ¡°It¡¯s a done deal. We¡¯re starting with the personnel, and the financial settlements are almost finalized.


    The sooner it¡¯s done, the sooner Jan faces his fate, pushing Jerome to the edge. That¡¯s how we¡¯ll


    put an end to this.¡±


    He was right. If not for the sudden incident with Carl, I would have been eager to wrap things up.


    I stared at Ronan in shock. ¡°In Goldenvale Town?¡±


    ¡°I must be the luckiest person alive to have all this rain down on me,¡± I said with a weak smile,


    sarcastically adding, ¡°What kind of mess have I married into?¡±


    ¡°You stumbled into this mess unknowingly. It all started with Jerome. His character and the circles he


    moved in brought about a significant change in his surroundings, making him a point of entry. And


    coincidentally, that entry point was his brother¡¯spany, Medsafe Liyah Inc. Co?tent of


    Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    Medsafe Liyah Inc. became the logistical support for nurturing these malignant forces. You know, their


    close ties with hospitals are the foundation for their illicit organ trade.


    Suddenly, a thought struck me. ¡°Does that mean my father¡­¡±

 Chapter 481

    Chapter 481


    Hearing my question, Ronan chuckled, ¡°Yes! Your father joined us voluntarily. He''s always been a


    visionary and knew that VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals would, sooner orter, get the same kind of


    attention as Medsafe Liyah Inc., so he decided to join forces with us and n a sting operation. The


    aim was to expose the puppet master pulling the strings.¡±


    ¡°You mean it wasn¡¯t just to deal with Jan?¡± I asked, struggling to believe it.


    ¡°Jan was just a pawn. Once he was out of the picture, the real power behind the throne would have


    to find a new path. But they would never be able to resist the bait of a cancer-fighting drug. Now


    they''ve taken the bait!¡± Ronan spoke with gravity, ¡°The genius of the old man is that he took the


    initiative to remove any obstacle! Let me tell you something, the cancer drug project was originally your


    family¡¯s own team¡¯s brainchild!¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I was utterly gobsmacked. I didn''t even know about it. What else was my father keeping from


    me?


    Ronan raised an eyebrow but didn¡¯t continue.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying that Jan missing out on the partnership with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals isn''t really


    a lost opportunity for us?¡± I pressed, recalling how worried I had been about potentially losing out on


    the investment after my divorce and takeover of Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    ¡°Of course not! It was all part of your dad¡¯s strategy!¡± Ronan¡¯s eyes twinkled with amusement, ¡°He¡¯s still


    sharp as a tack. A real business savant!¡±


    I scoffed, ¡°Hmph¡­ He keeps his own daughter in the dark! I¡¯ve been agonizing over this for a long


    time. Who''s he trying to torture here?¡±


    ¡°That''s what makes it convincing!¡± Ronan replied, ¡°Besides, isn¡¯t this also a way to test you? How else


    will you be ready to take the reins at VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?¡±


    ¡°But without Jan¡¯s investment, won¡¯t I be losing out on a significant amount of money?¡± I grumbled,


    feeling a pang of regret, ¡°My precious dors!¡±


    Ronanughed harder and yfully flicked my nose, ¡°You''re quite the little miser! When did you


    develop such a lust for money?"


    ¡°What? That money was rightfully mine. I regret ever letting that jerk Jan take over Medsafe Liyah


    Inc., giving Jerome the opportunity. If Addrion and I had kept at it, we¡¯d be in a much stronger position


    by now!¡± I argued with conviction.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, your dad wouldn¡¯t let youe out on the losing end. Once they bite the bait ande in


    with an investment, it¡¯s going to dwarf whatever Jan lost. Still worried about the money?¡± Ronan said


    confidently, ¡°Plus, everything''s on track now. If all goes well, we should be hearing from our contact


    with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals soon!¡±


    I looked at him skeptically, my mind buzzing with suspicions about the foxes I seemed to be


    surrounded by, myself feeling like the only naive rabbit in the den.


    Could I be benefiting from a fight among titans? That seemed almost too good to be true!


    But then again, something Ronan said struck a chord ¨C my old man, cunning as he was, wouldn''t let


    me down.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you have your ownb too?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Absolutely, that was the catalyst for my alliance with your father,¡± Ronan confirmed without breaking


    eye contact.


    Feeling the intensity of his gaze, I quickly looked away, muttering, ¡°First things first, I want Carl back


    safe and sound. I don¡¯t care about your schemes; I just want to get out of here and live a peaceful life


    with my kids.¡±


    He reached out to grasp my hand, and I felt a jolt of electricity as I tried to pull away unsessfully, my


    heart pounding in my chest.


    ¡°Rx. I promise you, within a week, I''ll bring Carl back to you,¡± Ronan reassured me, his voice


    instilling a deep sense of security.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    I looked up at him, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he nodded, ¡°I need to step out for a moment.¡±


    ¡°Allie¡­¡± The call came from the staircase as Hannah, stretchingzily, descended.


    She mped her mouth shut upon seeing the scene below, retreating swiftly.


    I quickly withdrew my hand, my cheeks burning, and called out, ¡°Come back here¡­¡±


    Ronan, looking slightly embarrassed after ncing at Hannah on the stairs, said to me, ¡°I¡¯ll be off then.¡±


    Updated at Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    I waved him off, ¡°Go on, get going! Oh¡­ and let me know if there¡¯s any news.¡±


    Startled, I looked at Ronan with an anxiety that was hard to conceal.

 Chapter 482

    Chapter 482


    Ronan gave me a ''hold on'' nce before he spoke into the phone, "Keep tabs on Jerome and find out


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    where ra''s headed!"


    After he hung up, I rushed to say, "ra definitely won''t lose track of Zora, I''m certain of it!"


    Hannah, having forgotten her earlier embarrassment, hurried down the stairs. "ra must have caught


    wind of Zora''s movements! Or maybe Jerome threatened her somehow; otherwise, she wouldn''t have


    just vanished. But I''m betting it''s the former."


    "I''ll give her a call," I said, reaching for my cellphone to dial ra. But Ronan grabbed my hand,


    saying, "Not now. We can''t tip her off before we''ve figured out her game."


    "Boss, with Brenda here, maybe I should go after ra?" Hannah volunteered.


    Ronan and I looked at her as she scratched her head, "I can move more discreetly on my own. I''ll


    definitely find them."


    "We need a rough idea of their direction first!" I said calmly. Without a lead, where would we even start


    looking?


    "If we nail down their direction first, then you can go. Let''s not rush this," Ronan agreed.


    I was torn; I wanted Hannah to go, but I feared it would be a wild goose chase.


    Ronan took another call and left swiftly.


    Logan had only managed an hour of sleep before a call woke him. Rubbing his eyes, he stumbled out,


    still on the phone. "Keep digging. I need to know what car they took, their destination... I know it''s


    tough, but make it happen... They might''ve used fake IDs, but they have distinct looks, and you''ve got


    the kid''s picture, Zora''s and Maddox''s too... Hurry up!"


    He hung up and beckoned me over, "Take a look at this."


    Confused, I walked over, and Hannah joined me. Logan''s phone was ying a short video clip.


    What I saw took my breath away. I snatched the phone from him, my eyes glued to the screen.


    There was Zora, holding my son Carl in her arms. Carl seemed perfectly content, nibbling on


    something while chuckling at Zora.


    Zora appeared to be talking to him, and Carl, with a gummy grin, was all smiles. It was a genuine smile,


    one that came straight from the heart.


    Then Maddox appeared, gesticting as he spoke to Zora. The filming was from too far away to catch


    their words. Soon after, they split up and went their separate ways.


    Zora cradling the child, Carl¡¯s little arms tightly wrapped around her neck, obedient and docile.


    It looked so natural, as if a mother was holding her own child, and that image sent me into a daze.


    The video ended there.


    Logan said, "A cabbie from EastBridge City recorded this. Zora and Maddox took his cab to the


    EastBridge City station. Their conversation raised his suspicions, so after they got out, he filmed them!"


    I was astonished, "You found this?"


    Logan shrugged it off, "It wasn''t hard. Taxis were our prime focus. Their appearance in EastBridge City


    confirms they''ve left Goldenvale Town."


    A question popped in my head, "What exactly did they say in the cab that made the driver suspicious?"


    Hannah nodded, looking to Logan for the answer.


    "But we still don''t know their next stop?" I murmured, more to myself, "Why would they split up?" Read


    at


    And there I was, stuck at home, waiting for any news, feeling utterly helpless.

 Chapter 483

    Chapter 483


    Waiting, it gnawed at me, ratcheting up my anxiety with each passing moment. Only Ronan''s promise


    that he''d bring my child back within a week stood as my pir of sanity amidst the chaos.


    I''d tell myself during bouts of restlessness that Ronan wouldn''t break his promise, that he wouldn''t let


    me down. Yet, each minute dragged on like an eternity, and I dared not call anyone for updates, fearing


    the worst - that there was no news yet.


    Then, on the morning of the fourth day, Logan buzzed with news that ra had been spotted back in


    her hometown, though Zora was still missing.


    A surge of excitement shot through me, and I hastily told Logan, "Keep an eye on ra; she won''t let


    Zora slip away easily. Believe me, the showdown between those sisters is bound to happen. It won''t


    just fizzle out!"


    As we were specting about ra waiting for Zora''s arrival back home, Ronan''s call came through.


    He ordered Logan to tap into Jerome''s uing calls, suspecting that he sent ra on the hunt for


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zora.


    I pped my thigh in excitement, eximing, "That''s exactly what I was thinking. It all adds up. Why


    else would ra be with Jerome?"


    Hannah caught on to my train of thought instantly.


    Ronan''smand was like a lightning bolt of rity, unlocking a floodgate of connections I had


    struggled to make sense of before.


    I turned to Hannah, piecing it together for her, "After she left that house Jan had for Zora, she


    must''ve parted ways with Zora. Joining Jerome must have been her choice because she needs a ce


    where she canpletely overpower Jan and Zora.


    She doesn''t care if the guy''s a fugitive or an ouw. Think about it; she knew she was infected, so


    she''s acting out of desperation, like a cornered animal."


    "That makes total sense! And it''s clear she has some sort of beef with you!" Hannah said candidly.


    "The grudge she has against me is because of the infection! She resents me for standing by coldly


    while Jan infected her. But man, she was in Jan''s bed quicker than I could warn her. Before I


    could even understand her real motives foring to my ce looking for her sister, her deed was


    done! Talk about being reckless!" I spread my hands in resignation.


    Hannah snickered, "Those sisters are a piece of work. She didn''t consider your feelings when she slept


    with your husband! So why me you for being indifferent when she got sick?"


    "That''s just it! And there''s the DNA report too; it now exins why ra''s original report vanished


    without a trace, only for Jerome to end up with a fake. It wasn''t Zora challenging Jerome; it was ra


    the whole time!"


    Logan chuckled sarcastically, "Those two are quite the pair, aren''t they? Each move is a matter of life


    and death!"


    Hannah picked up where I left off, "And then, after we cleared things up with Jerome at the funeral


    home, we tried to find Zora, only to realize we were a step behind. That''s why ra was sent to track


    Zora!"


    I nodded approvingly at Hannah.


    Logan said, "We thought of her hometown right from the start, but her family insisted she wouldn''t


    return!"


    "That''s the only exnation then!" Hannah agreed, nodding.  Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    Turns out, my hunch was spot on.


    This news was exhrating, but something still didn''t sit right with me.

 Chapter 484

    Chapter 484


    When the news broke, we all breathed a sigh of relief. The hustle of the past few days hadn''t been for


    nothing.


    But before we could revel in our brief moment of joy, fresh intel from Ronan¡¯s end put a damper on


    things. Jerome had sent his guys to ra''s hometown, and they were already on their way.


    I couldn''t sit still any longer. Springing up, I looked Logan dead in the eye and said, "I can''t just sit


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    around. I need to go there!"


    Logan rolled his eyes, clearly fed up. "As long as we see Zora, we¡¯ll get Carl back without a hitch. You


    heading over there would just stir up trouble. Just wait it out here, okay?"


    I shook my head, a sense of foreboding weighing heavy on me. "I''ve got a bad feeling about this.


    Something big is gonna happen."


    Logan shook his head, saying helplessly, "You''re overthinking it. Even if something does go down, you


    think you''re gonna be the one to fix it? Catherine''s right, you need to calm down sometimes."


    Before they could finish their rebuttal, I was already on the phone with Ronan, insisting, "I have to go, I


    need to bring my child back myself!"


    Ronan could tell I wasn''t budging and said, "Easy now. Let''s talk when I get there. I''ll make


    arrangements."


    I was about to argue further when Logan cut me off¡ªand the line went dead.


    Annoyed, I shot him a defiant look. "Don''t try to stop me. It''s pointless. I''m going."


    Logan, with a look of exasperation, replied, "I''m not trying to stop you. Even if I wanted to, it wouldn''t


    matter. Ronan''s given the green light, and my objections wouldn''t mean anything."


    "How do you know he agreed? He didn''t say so!" I red at Logan, seeking confirmation.


    Logan slumped into the couch with a helpless shrug. "Just wait and see, he always spoils you."


    Hannah nodded in agreement, "I''lle with you! Your hunches are always spot on!"


    My phone buzzed in my hand, cutting our argument short. It was a call from ra.


    Hannah craned her neck to see, her interest piqued.


    The name flickered on the screen, hooking all of us with anticipation.


    I swiped to answer, putting it on speaker. ra''s voice came through, steady, "Hello?"


    "ra?" I replied.


    She hummed in acknowledgment, her toneced with emotion. "It''s nice to hear your voice."


    Her voice was hard to read, warm but distant, as if she was just catching up with family.


    Keeping my tone casual, I prodded further. "You didn''t just call to hear my voice, did you? Let''s be


    straight with each other."


    She let out augh, devoid of malice, which made me wary. What was she ying at?


    Hannah shushed me, and we all listened intently for what ra had to say next.


    "But let me remind you, ra," I added with a stern edge, "don''t test my patience. Whether it''s about


    Evan or Catherine''s situation, you owe me an exnation. And this time, it''s about my child. Consider


    the consequences." Co?tent §àf


    Sheughed again, this time with a sarcastic edge.


    Her enigmatic message left us all dumbstruck, exchanging bewildered nces. What was she getting


    at?

 Chapter 485

    Chapter 485


    Hannah''s anger red in an instant, her hand mming down on the coffee table. "She''s tantly


    provoking us, Allie! You were right, I smell trouble brewing!"


    Even Logan, who was usually unppable, had a look of disbelief etched on his face as he fell into


    deep thought. We were seething, specting on ra''s motives.


    Then, ines Ronan with purposeful strides, Larkin following close behind.


    The moment I saw Ronan, a wave of calm washed over me.


    Logan sat up straight and took the lead, "Looks like a trip to the Rhylee family homestead is a must.


    But it''s not the ce for you to show your face. I reckon I should go instead!"


    Ronan nced at Logan and asked in a deep voice, "Why?"


    Without mincing words, Logan activated his phone, which he''d been clutching all along, and ced it


    on the coffee table. The recorded conversation from earlier yed out loud¡ªturns out recording had


    be a habit of his.


    After listening to the recording, Ronan nodded in agreement, "Seems I really can''t be the one to show


    up there. But that doesn''t mean I can''t go. I''m notfortable with her going alone!"


    Logan gave me a meaningful look and said, "I''ll hold down the fort here. You go."


    I felt a tinge of guilt. After all, we were at a critical juncture, and Ronan was the mastermind overseeing


    everything.


    "Maybe Larkin and Hannah could go with me?" I suggested, somewhat sheepishly.


    "Nonsense!" Ronan said sternly.


    "Allie, considering how things are shaping up, we can''t take this lightly," Logan advised me solemnly.


    "Trouble usuallyes from people who are unpredictable and have no limits. You can''t just walk into


    danger alone, get it?"


    I had to nod in agreement, "You''re right. What I don''t get is what she meant by her words and why she


    would notify Jan?" I voiced my doubts.


    "It makes sense. After all, he''s the kid''s father and has ties to Zora," Hannah chimed in.


    "It''s probably not that simple!" Logan leaned back on the couch, exuding an air of confidence. "There''s


    likely a deeper meaning behind ra''s move."


    Hannah turned to Logan, "So, do you think Jan will show up?"


    Logan pondered for a moment before replying, "That depends on ra''s scheme. If she wants you


    there, do you have any reason not to go? Consider her tone and the urgency in her call; how could you


    possibly stay away?"


    Logan hit the nail on the head. Considering ra''s words, it became clear that I had to go, regardless


    of my personal feelings about it.


    I looked at Ronan, urging him, "Let''s get moving! I''m worried that any dy could change things."


    I truly felt uneasy. What kind of mischief was ra up to?


    For me, Carl''s safety was paramount, and I would risk everything to ensure it.


    As for Jan, I had no expectations of him. Whether he showed up or not was irrelevant. Besides, I


    had full custody of my three children, and his absence might even be for the better.


    But ra''s mention of ¡®surprise¡¯ kept nagging at me; she surely knew something I didn''t!


    Seeing Ronan and Logan methodically nning our next move, I grew impatient and pressed, "Let''s


    just go!"


    Ronan then stood up steadily and reassured me, "Don''t worry, we won''t bete."


    Then he looked at me, "You''re leaving like this? Without packing a change of clothes?"


    I hastily grabbed a couple of items and shoved them into my bag.


    "Helga, you must go because when Carl and I return, he will need your care," I said earnestly.


    At my words, she nodded repeatedly, "Alright, Miss, I''ll go¡ªI promise!"


    In the car, I made sure to ask Ronan about our route, whether we needed to fly straight to the state


    capital and then drive down to the county. Upd§Ñted at Dr§Ñ§Þan§àvels.c§à§Þ


    "No need!" Ronan said confidently. "I guarantee we''ll be the first ones there."


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    I truly hoped we would be the first to arrive; that would give us the upper hand.

 Chapter 486

    Chapter 486


    The athletic field was deserted except for the helicopter sitting on the sprint track. No wonder Ronan


    had promised, "I guarantee we''ll be the first ones there!" I was beginning to believe him.


    To be honest, it was my first time in a chopper and I was a bit on edge. But the cabin was surprisingly


    big. We took to the skies, heading straight for the Rhylee family homestead.


    In order not to spook anyone, Ronan had everything nned out. Wended in the main city of their


    province.


    The helicopter set down in a small police za in the city, and from there, we were escorted by cop


    This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    cars to the small town. The city was a stone''s throw away from the town; in less than half an hour, we


    were there.


    We checked straight into the guesthouse arranged by the officials. The entire journey had taken less


    than five hours.


    This was a small town in the north, and during the summer, the temperature was quite pleasant.


    Ronan exined, ¡°Staying here is safer than any hotel or inn on the outside. Plus, it spares us from


    unnecessary interruptions.¡±


    I was a bundle of nerves, excited yet anxious. It felt like I was drawing closer to Carl by the minute, and


    my heart was racing with impatience.


    After a quick lunch, a sharp youngd knocked and came in to report. The Rhylee family''s actual home


    wasn''t in the town but a small mountain vige about ten miles away.


    The vige was small, he said, and any stranger would stand out. So, he advised against heading there


    just yet.


    My mind was racing, not knowing the situation with the other parties involved, nor Zora''s status. It


    seemed I would have to wait for the right moment and more information before making a move.


    Ronan quickly dispatched people on various tasks, even sending Larkin off with instructions!


    And there we were, waiting in the guesthouse, me with my heart in my throat, trying not to show it.


    My son''s life was at stake; how could I be calm? My head was filled with a jumbled mess of thoughts,


    spections, possibilities, and even some ominous premonitions!


    Feeling restless and confined, I couldn''t find a way to calm myself.


    Ronan kept trying to reassure me, suggesting I take a nap while we waited for news, but how could I


    sleep? My son was in the hands of others; it was impossible to rest.


    Eventually, I couldn''t take it anymore and turned to Ronan, "Can I step out for some air? I won''t go far,


    just a stroll around the block. It''s too stuffy in here!"


    Seeing my restlessness and the almost pleading tone in my voice, Ronan looked at Hannah.


    Hannah just shrugged, showing no objections.


    Ronan relented, "This ce is unfamiliar. Don''t wander off too far. Take a quick walk ande back."


    Hannah nodded and said to me, "Allie, change into something casual before you go."


    ncing down at my stiff business suit, I realized it wasn''t ideal for a stroll.


    Eager to get out, I quickly changed into something morefortable¡ªa pair of jeans and a white tee¡ª


    and fixed my short, refreshing hair in the mirror. It had been years since I''d dressed so casually.


    When I emerged from the bathroom, Ronan''s eyes lit up as he reminded me, "Don''t go far!"


    Hannah nodded vigorously and stepped out with me.


    I grabbed Hannah and we left the inn.


    We walked down the road, chatting and specting why Zora hadn''t shown up yet.


    Hannah seemed worried, "Could it be she hasn''te back?"


    "That''s unlikely. If Zora hadn''t returned, ra wouldn''t have kicked up such a fuss. She really looks up


    to her sister, and after tracking her for years, she wouldn''t be so calm if she weren''t sure," I analyzed


    for Hannah. "Besides, Maddox is back. She wouldn''t¡ª" Upd§Ñted at Dr§Ñ§Þan§àvels.c§à§Þ


    Speak of the devil, and he shall appear. There, striding into a side street, was Maddox.


    "What a surprise. Come on... let''s follow and see!" I said, tugging on Hannah.


    Without a word, Hannah followed my lead as we hurried after him.

 Chapter 487

    Chapter 487


    We were practically jogging to keep up with Maddox, entirely ignoring Ronan''s earlier words.


    Maddox was power-walking, his urgency evident in every brisk step and the frequent anxious nces


    he cast over his shoulder.


    Hannah and I kept up the pursuit, cloaking our urgency in the guise of a casual stroll, dreading that he


    might spot us. Even though he probably wouldn''t recognize us, getting too close could still rouse his


    suspicions.


    He zipped through the streets, making sharp turns until he plunged into a back alley behind Main


    Street.


    We hung back, not daring to follow too closely anymore.


    The alley stretched out long and narrow, leading straight to another bustling thoroughfare, and right at


    the corner stood a weathered apartmentplex.


    We watched Maddox enter theplex and were about to follow when Larkin appeared out of


    nowhere, blocking our path with a hushed urgency, "Hold on, you two. This is Maddox''s mother''s ce.


    Don''t spook him!"


    Hannah and I froze, but Larkin gestured to her, "Get going. I''ve got eyes on him. Don''t muck things up.


    If he gets wind of us, we''ll never track down Zora."


    In a low voice, I asked Larkin, "Any sign of Zora or my son?"


    He shook his head with conviction, "Nothing yet."


    Reluctantly, I cast onest nce towards theplex before retreating with Hannah the way we


    came.


    Back at the inn, I let out a sigh of defeat, murmuring to Hannah as we walked, "Howe there''s still


    no word on her?"


    Night fell, and Ronan''s people began trickling back with updates¡ªone reported that Jan had made it


    to the city, while another confirmed that Jerome''s men had arrived, a party of four.


    But the real kicker came from Logan, who sent over a crystal-clear phone recording of ra calling


    Zora.


    "Hey, sis, you''re back in town but noting home?" ra''s voice was as provocatively sweet as ever.


    Zora fired back with barely-contained rage, "What''s your game, ra?"


    "Just missing you, my dear sister, that''s all. Heard you were back, figured I should too. I¡¯ve been away


    for too long. Gotta see mom and dad, right?" ra''s voice was sharine, almost teasing.


    "Don''t give me that. It''s your home, not mine. I didn''te back for that. You''re always scheming,


    ra!"


    "Sis, that''s cold. We''re flesh and blood, remember? I''ve let bygones be bygones. Why can¡¯t you do the


    same?"


    "Even if I owed you back then, ra, I''ve paid my dues over the years. You¡ª"


    ra cut her off, "Stop harping on about that measly living expenses. What about the rest?"


    In the call, Zora''s side sounded quiet, maybe she was outdoors, with the rustling of wind.


    raughed, "Taking you down would be no sweat for a wanted man. How I know is irrelevant. What


    matters is I do. Come home, Zora. Mom''s practically going blind from crying over missing you."


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    "She''s always blind and worthless! If she were not, that monster wouldn''t still be alive," Zora spat.


    Dr?§Þan§àvels


    Silence enveloped the call, ra''s words clearly hitting a nerve.

 Chapter 488

    Chapter 488


    "ra, you''re asking for trouble!" Zora''s roar sted through the phone.


    ra, on the other hand, was calm, her voice soothing, "It''s up to you whether youe back or not!


    Mom insisted I call you once she knew you were back, so we''re waiting! But if you don''t show up


    tonight, I''ll have to tell Jerome, and you know I can''t put him off! What do you think he''ll do if I tell him


    you¡¯re already here?"


    Without waiting for Zora to answer, ra hung up.


    I turned to Ronan, "Looks like she really is back! But where on earth could she be?"


    Ronan said, "ra is dead set on getting her back to the house; it must be a trap!"


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    "Why the hell does she want Zora to go back home?" Hannahined. "What''s ra really after?"


    "I think it''s ra''s vendetta," I said. "She''s been on Zora''s trail for years, trying to drag her back to face


    the mess at home!"


    I looked at Ronan. "I''m sure Zora will take the bait! We need to find Carl before Jerome''s goons show


    up. What if Jerome doesn''t give a damn about Carl?"


    Ronan nodded, "Don''t worry, the Rhylee family has people on it. They''re staked out already, ready to


    bring the kid back at the first sign!"


    I was about to suggest we also head to the Rhylee family''s ce when Ronan''s phone rang again. He


    held up a finger to silence me and took the call.


    After a brief "Mhm," he listened intently for a long time before hanging up.


    "Zora showed up near the Rhylee family''s territory, alone, no sign of the kid," he reported.


    My heart sank, "No sign of the kid? Where could she have stashed him?"


    "Larkin''s been watching Maddox; he went home and hasn''te out, so the kid isn''t with him," Hannah


    mused, puzzled. "Does Zora have another hideout?"


    "Let''s just wait! We''ll follow her when she leaves," Ronan said resignedly.


    He made another call, whispering instructions, "No matter what happens, let Zora go, but don''t lose


    her! And send me the footage from the scene if you can."


    A quiet acknowledgment came through the phone.


    I nearly gave Ronan a thumbs-up; he was so in tune with what I wanted to know.


    Soon, the team staking out the Rhylee''s sent over live video footage.


    I was amazed at the rity of the video, despite the awkward angle, but it was enough!


    The camera, hidden at a corner of a rooftop, aimed inside a dpidated house¡ªan old structure that


    clearly screamed poverty.


    It waste at night, and an elderly woman with white hair was sitting on an old couch, weeping bitterly.


    It seemed like she was berating Zora, who stood there with a look of disdain, utterly unashamed.


    She faced ra, who was standing by the old woman with arms crossed and a smug smile stered


    on her face.


    Zora yelled at the old woman, "Shut it! Don¡¯t wail like I¡¯m dead¡ªit¡¯s annoying!"


    The old woman, clearly agitated, pped the arm of the couch,menting, "How can you speak to your


    mother like that? Do I even exist to you?"


    "You¡¯re a beast!" New chapter av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    Zora''s words shook me to the core. No wonder she was so cold and ruthless¡ªher twisted psyche


    couldn''t possibly harbor any warmth orpassion.


    The mockery in ra¡¯s voice was almost palpable as the scene continued to unfold on the screen.

 Chapter 489

    Chapter 489


    Zora suddenly turned to ra with a fierce re. "You know what, ra? I''ve had it up to here with


    you! The thing I regret most is not letting those guys finish you off back in the day. If you''d been out of


    the picture, I wouldn''t be in this mess now."


    She took a big step forward, pointing an using finger at ra.


    "It''s all because of you. If you hadn''t shown up and charmed Aaliyah, I wouldn''t be where I am today, I


    gave you a sum of money a month for your education. And what did you do with it, huh? All you do is


    seducing men, just like your mother!"


    ra remained unfazed, her smile rxed and content. "Oh really? Look who''s talking. Aren''t you the


    one who''s been desperately throwing yourself at every guy out there? Can you honestly say you


    haven''t got a bit of mom''s genes in you?"


    ra¡¯sughter bubbled up, light and mocking. "Zora, I brought you back here to tell you something.


    That sleazy drunk who raped you... is our real father! Ha! Bet you didn''t see that oneing. Even I


    couldn''t believe it."


    In the scene unfolding before me, Zora froze, struck as if by lightning, motionless and stunned.


    Hannah let out a snide chuckle. "Well, she''s totally shocked!"


    I quickly gestured for her to be quiet and we continued to watch.


    ra let out a self-deprecatingugh and went on. "I''ve been struggling, full of regrets. I used to tell


    myself that when you set those men on me, I was paying for our father''s sins. But when the DNA


    results came back, proving that you''re his daughter too... Oh, the irony! Who can you me for that,


    Zora? You despised him, always saying he wasn''t your father, and that made him believe you really


    weren''t his."


    There was a hysterical edge to ra''s voice, as if she was airing a deep grievance.


    At that moment, I felt a real pang in my heart. Indeed, from the very beginning, ra was the most


    wronged of all.


    She covered her face for a moment, then turned to look at her mother, continuing, "And let''s not forget


    your contribution, Mom. If you hadn''t been so promiscuous, he might not have believed he wasn''t the


    father. Tell me, Mom, did you yourself think Zora wasn''t his?"


    Suddenly, a dingy curtain was violently flung aside, and a limping old man emerged from the back


    room, his visage twisted and grotesque, his nose red and bulbous. As he appeared, he started cursing


    loudly, "She''s not mine, she''s someone else''s daughter. She''s unworthy, a little tramp, she can''t


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    possibly be my blood! Goddamn little beast..."


    ra watched with malicious glee as her father spouted his vile words.


    The moment Zora saw the old drunk, she snapped, "You''re the animal, not fit to be my father! It''s your


    own fault for being so worthless that my mom cheated. You should never have married her. Just drop


    dead, why don''t you?"


    With those words, Zora shoved the old man with such force that he stumbled and fell, crashing into the


    corner of a table, not getting up for a long time.


    "What are you doing to your father, Zora?"


    Zora sneered, turning to point at ra. "You bitch, why didn''t fate take you instead? Leaving behind a


    disaster like you!"


    Now I understood, the crux of ra''s bitternessy right there. New ch?pter av§Ñble o?


    Dr?§Þan§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "ra, you''re asking for trouble..."


    "Sure, and do you think you have long to live? Contracting that dirty disease, you think there''s hope for


    you? Stop dreaming! And I''ve got news for you, do you know what Jerome promised me in exchange


    for finding you?"

 Chapter 490

    Chapter 490


    In the frame, Zora was staring daggers at ra''s face.


    ra was stillughing wildly, a twisted joy in her eyes as she taunted Zora. "He promised me, you


    know. He said he''d take out everyst one of those bastards who raped me. Not a single one will be


    spared. By tomorrow, you''ll be hearing about their demise. Surprise, surprise! Isn''t that a delightful


    shock? Jerome didn''t even hesitate. He''s a real stand-up guy!"


    My heart clenched at ra''s words. Her face, lit up with a sinister smile, was like a poisonous rose¡ª


    deadly yet captivating.


    She inched closer to Zora, enunciating every word with venom. "And then... it''ll be your turn!"


    "You... you wouldn''t dare!" Zora''s voice wavered, her confidence slipping away. She instinctively


    stepped back. "You''re asking for death, ra!"


    ra''s voice rose to a roar. "Did you ever want me to live? When you set me up, handed Jerome that


    fake report, was that for my sake? And now you''re ming me? Toote! I''ll never forgive you. You dug


    my grave, Zora."


    "Viins! All of you, viins!" Their mother seemed to finally grasp their conversation. She smacked the


    couch and cursed, "Beasts! You want to kill me!"


    "When I was little, you let those men at me. As I grew up, you kept trapping me, pushing me towards


    death. Well, now it''s your turn to taste a fate worse than death!"


    A fierce look overtook ra''s delicate features. She spun around, facing Zora with a mockingly serious


    tone. "Oh... and guess what? I''ve also informed Jan and Aaliyah. Let ''em alle! The more, the


    merrier, right? Time to settle old scores, once and for all."


    Zora''s face began to contort with anger. She clenched her fists, eyes locked onto ra.


    ra faced her down. "You took Jan''sst stash of getaway cash, and you really think he''ll let you


    off the hook? Dream on! You think using the kid will keep him in line, that he''ll take you and the brat off


    to Australia? You''re a fool, Zora. You''ve stolen his hope. With Jerome on your trail and Aaliyah out for


    blood, you think Australia''s still possible? You must be dreaming!"


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Watching this unfold, I couldn''t help but smirk ruefully. ra was wasting her wits on such dark


    endeavors. Both sisters were racing down a doomed path.


    A wave of fear inexplicably rose within me.


    But onscreen, ra kept ranting. "Zora, you don''t actually believe Jan would fly away with you, do


    you? Ha! The guy''s not even sure he can get past the Azure Enchantress, and you think he''ll take you


    along?"


    At the mention of ''Azure Enchantress,'' we all tensed, our attention fixed on ra. She seemed to know


    a lot more than we''d expected.


    Ronan and I exchanged nces. He gestured for me to keep listening.


    ra was still riding her adrenaline high, perhaps excited by Zora''s silence. She leaned in, delivering


    the final blow. "Zora, now that you''re back, this is where it ends for you. If I don''t finish you off, the


    Dawson brothers sure as hell won''t let you slide! And besides... Zora, what if I tell Aaliyah that you


    switched..."


    Before ra could finish, Zora lunged forward, her hand raised in a threatening gesture.


    I leaned in closer, trying to decipher the meaning behind her move.


    Hannah shouted out, "Oh no, she wants ra dead!"


    I was about to ask Hannah why when a chilling scene unfolded.


    From between ra''s fingers, a bright crimson spray erupted, covering the ceiling in a sh. Content of


    Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    I screamed, my hand covering my mouth, but my eyes were glued to the screen.

 Chapter 491

    Chapter 491


    The scene was horrifying. ra''s body toppled backward, a macabre fountain of blood spraying


    everywhere. A ghastly scream tore through the silence, "You killed her..."


    Their mother''s cry was cut short as she copsed onto the bed, fainting dead away.


    Zora seemed to be in shock from the grisly sight before her, stumbling backward until she thudded


    against the doorframe.


    Even the camera shook with the chaos of the moment.


    Zora ranted incoherently, "...just die! You should''ve been dead ages ago! Trying to have Jerome off me,


    well think again! You brought this on yourself, haunting me down. I paid you every month, and you still


    wanted me dead, you brought this on yourself! It''s not on me... I gave you your dues, and this is the


    thanks I get?!"


    Her words were a jumbled roar of rage, and it was only then I noticed the knife in her hand. She


    despised ra that much, extinguishing her vibrant life in an instant.


    Moments before, ra wasughing, screaming, but now shey silent in a pool of blood, looking even


    more frail.


    Atst, she was free of her demons.


    Indeed, ra''s final struggle was like a dance with death.


    The drunk man who had been knocked out cold wasing to, grunting and blinking in confusion.


    When he saw the carnage, he swore, "You monster... you''ve killed... murdered!"


    He tried to rise, but fell back down, cursing and struggling.


    Perhaps his insults were thest straw for Zora, who lunged at him, shouting, "You old brute, it''s all


    because of you... your very existence shames me. Go join her in death!"


    With that, she plunged the knife into him repeatedly, the man''s body convulsing until Zora copsed


    from exhaustion, her gaze empty and breath ragged.


    The old woman on the bed let out a groan, snapping Zora out of her daze. She turned to look, her face


    ashen with horror.


    "You... you''ve killed people!" her mother uttered with a trembling voice.


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    Zora pleaded desperately, "They had iting... I didn''t want to, but they wouldn''t let me live. Don''t


    you see?" Suddenly, she rounded on her mother, screaming without a shred of sanity, "It''s all on you!


    You only cared about your own pleasure, and now we''re paying the price!"


    Zora''s usations turned into sobs, her face a mess of tears and blood.


    "I asked you once who my father was, and you couldn''t tell me. Just think about how many men you''ve


    been with. You''re the reason for all of this!"


    The old woman beat the bed''s edge, "Karma... it''s karma... You''re a heartless beast, killing your own


    sister, having men rape her, and now this... why did you evene back..."


    This seemed to remind Zora of something; she sprang up and bolted for the door, clearly intent on


    escape.


    With another swift motion, the old woman''s cries stopped abruptly.


    Silence fell like a shroud; three lives snuffed out without a sound.


    The ease with which she dealt thatst blow to her mother was chilling. Was she even human?


    Co?tent §àf Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    I couldn''t bear the thought that my Carl had been involved with such a person.


    Suddenly, the camera shook violently¡ªit seemed that the person filming was also fleeing in terror.

 Chapter 492

    Chapter 492


    At that moment, my terror was beyond words. Imagine how anyone could cope with the fact that, in


    less than half an hour, three vibrant lives had been snuffed out like candles in the wind.


    The screen flickered in the darkness, the barking of a dog echoing in the background.


    Hannah''s voice came through, "Looks like she''s on the move, boss. Should we call the cops?"


    Ronan pondered for a moment, "Someone will have called it by now!"


    He nced at me and came over, enveloping me in his arms with a gentle whisper, "She won''t get far.


    Don''t be scared!"


    My body was shivering uncontrobly. The thought of holding my son after what had happened was


    chilling to the bone.


    Suddenly, Hannah eximed, "She''s actually taking a bath?!"


    I quickly wriggled out of Ronan''s embrace, curiosity drawing my eyes to the screen.


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    In the pitch-ck night, a sinister figure was sshing water from a rushing river onto herself with


    relentless vigor!


    It took a good twenty minutes before she crossed the river and vanished into the darkness.


    A voice from the screen said, "I''m on her trail, I''ll report back soon!"


    And with that, the screen went dead.


    "She must be going for Carl; why else would she clean up like that?" Ronan''s voice was firm, "We''ll


    hear about the kid soon. If all goes well, we''ll have him back by dawn."


    He turned to me, his voice soft, "Try to get some rest, we''ve got to pick up Carlter."


    I was still trembling, too terrified to even think about closing my eyes.


    "Don''t be afraid, I''m here," Ronan said, as if reading my mind, his hand gently stroking my back. The


    warmth from his palm strangelyforted me.


    As the sky turned a pale gray, news finally arrived. Ronan immediately answered the call on


    speakerphone, "Boss, the target is in a nunnery at Emerald Mist Peak. Locals say there''s just one old


    nun there. Both paths up the mountain are blocked!"


    Hannah was astonished, "There''s a nunnery here? So that''s where she was hiding!"


    Ronan made another call, summoning Larkin back and arranging a car to take us up the mountain.


    He had tried to convince me to wait at the inn for Carl¡¯s return. But how could I? After four agonizing


    days, my son was within reach, and I couldn''t bear not to be there to greet him. And with him in the


    clutches of a murderer, how could I rest easy?


    Zora had now truly be a fugitive.


    She had shattered my perception of her. If she could kill, sticking needles in my head seemed trivial in


    Ronan repeatedly instructed Larkin and Hannah to ensure my safety, and to bring the child back


    without harm. This time, it was he who was restless.


    It was clear Ronan was worried; after all, he couldn''t show his face this time.


    So he kept instructing Larkin and Hannah, making sure that both Carl and I would be safe.


    Mimicking his usual reassurances to me, I said, "Stop fussing and just wait here for the news! If we wait


    too long, she could slip away!"


    I was already on pins and needles, and as he looked at me meaningfully, I had to suppress a chuckle.


    It was his turn to taste the anxiety of waiting for news.


    But theughter didn''tst long.


    We hadn''t seen a trace of Zora on our way up, and the team on the other path also reported no sign of


    her.


    This was agonizing. The thought of my child, in these wild woods with Zora, off the beaten path where


    snakes and beasts lurked, filled me with dread.  Dra§Þanovels.c§àm


    As we searched in desperate anxiety, a message came in ¨C Zora had been spotted climbing towards


    the summit.


    Those words made my legs turn to jelly, and I nearly copsed. My Carl, my poor Carl!

 Chapter 493

    Chapter 493


    Hannah steadied me with a firm grip. "Sis, don''t panic. Just stay put. We''ll go up and I promise I''ll bring


    your little guy back safe and sound!"


    My heart was thumping in my chest, and I shook my head stubbornly, asserting, "No way, I''m going to


    get my child myself!"


    The old nun, chanting prayers quietly to herself, stepped forward, "I''ll lead you up," she offered.


    We were concerned for her; after all, she was advanced in age.


    But she strode ahead, surprisingly sprightly, outpacing even the younger ones among us.


    I followed closely behind. This was about my son''s life, after all.


    I understood then what they meant by ''a mother''s strength.'' I would rather die on the path to finding my


    son than stand still.


    As we walked, the old nun told us about her bond with Zora.


    Zora was just a child when they met. She would oftene to the old nun bruised and battered,


    seeking refuge. She was a good kid, quick on her feet and sweet-talking, helping out with chores in the


    chapel, a delight to have around.


    Then, one day, she was terrified by the advances of her monstrous father. It was only after being


    forcibly taken home by that drunken brute that the trouble really started.


    Before she left, Zora hade to bid the old nun farewell.


    Worried, the old nun pressed her for where she was going. Zora reassured her that she hadpany.


    As we continued our ascent, the old nun went on, "When she said someone was with her, I was


    relieved. Every year, she''d send word or gifts back to me. She was a child of heart and honor."


    A child of heart and honor?


    That was the most ludicrous thing I''d heard. So, Zora had another side to her.


    "This time, she brought back a child, she said he was her son. I believed her. She said she wanted to


    stay longer, and my gut told me something was up again. But I didn''t dare ask."


    Her son? I thought, scoffing inwardly. That''s my son. But I kept silent.


    The old nun sighed, "I hadn''t seen her in years, and she had changed so much. There was a


    harshness in her eyes, a deadly aura."


    I asked casually, trying to hide my concern, "What time did she leavest night? Do you know what she


    was up to?"


    "Last night, after she put the child to sleep, she left. She didn''t say where to. But she didn''t return until


    just before dawn, reeking of bloodlust and the smell of blood.


    Before I could ask, she said she had to leave. I pressed her, and all she said was someone was


    I was gasping for breath, climbing after them, listening to The old nun''s tale. To think, someone actually


    called Zora a good kid!


    What she had done was utterly condemnable!


    We hadn''t reached the summit when I heard Carl''s heartbreaking cries and Zora''s shouting, ordering


    people to back off, "Everyone, back off, or I''ll jump with him right here, back off..."N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    By then, I was running on fumes, but Carl''s cries were like a shot of adrenaline.


    Hannah was right beside me, protecting me from any misstep.


    As I reached the top, I saw my Carl struggling in Zora''s arms, his cries tearing at my heart.


    I copsed onto the t rock, gasping for air, and reached out desperately to Zora, "Zora, calm down...


    please, just calm down!"


    Carl caught sight of me, his struggles intensifying, his voice piercing as he cried, "Mommy... Mommy!


    Baby wants Mommy!"  Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    My heart was overwhelmed with emotion, tears streaming as I fought for breath, "My son, don''t be


    scared, Mommy''s here for you!"


    Zora responded with a maniacalugh, her sanity seemingly slipping away.

 Chapter 494

    Chapter 494


    Zora stood with a malicious grin stered on her face, her voice booming with a mix of arrogance and


    challenge. "What''s the matter, Aaliyah? Scared? I thought you were all tough and mighty, always


    looking down on everyone. What''s got you groveling at my feet now?"


    Her words struck a nerve, and inside my head I cursed, "Damn you!" Was I scared of her? No, it was


    sheer exhaustion that brought me to my knees, and if there was any fear, it was for the safety of my


    son. But what came out of my mouth was a meek plea, "Yes, I admit it, I''m scared of you, Zora. Would


    you please put him down? Let''s talk this through."


    Gasping for air, I tried to speak calmly, my eyes never leaving my little Carl as he reached out for me,


    tears streaming down his cheeks, crying, "Mommy... Mommy!"


    Zora''s eyes shed with fury as she pped Carl''s hand away and yelled, "Shut it! Cry one more time,


    and I''ll throw you off this cliff!"


    Carl''s crying intensified as he sobbed, "You''re mean! I want my mommy!"


    The pain in my heart was unbearable as I watched my child suffer. Fighting back my own tears, I red


    at Zora, "Don''t hit him, Zora. Don''t take your anger out on the child."


    She roared back, "So what if I do? Even if it means his death, it''s just a matter of one move for me."


    I was breathless, locked in a stare-down with her until I managed to regain myposure.


    "Please... put him down. I''ll take his ce. You hate me, right? Here I am. He''s just a child; he doesn''t


    understand anything. Don''tsh out at him," I pleaded, swallowing my pride.


    "Not a chance, Aaliyah. You think you''re so kind-hearted? I''ll make sure you watch how he dies!" Zora


    was unyielding, taunting me further.


    I shook my head and inched toward her, "Stop! It''s my fault. Just give me Carl, please..."


    Zora took a step back, "No... back off..."


    The stones at the edge of the cliff tumbled down as I froze in terror.


    My legs felt like jelly, and I was overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness.


    Hannah grabbed me, pinching my waist as a warning, "Don''t move. Come back! Step back!"


    Her gesture was a silentmand to stay calm. Even the officers who had arrived on the scene were


    too cautious to make a move.


    "Zora, I won''t move," I promised repeatedly, trying to calm both her and Carl.


    Zora''s eyes were bloodshot, her face deathly pale, her grip on Carl unsteady. Carl struggled in her


    arms, desperate to break free.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Seeing that I was standing still, Carl cried even louder, gasping between sobs, "Mommy... I want


    Mommy..."


    I watched helplessly as he cried out. Despite his young age, he was smart enough to sense the danger.


    When he caught Zora''s angry gaze, he pped her, shouting, "You''re bad! I don''t want you; I want


    Mommy!"


    "Carl!" My heart ached as I cried, "Don''t move, be good!"


    I feared his defiance might provoke Zora, who was nothing short of a madwoman.


    Everyone was stunned by the outburst. I spun around to see Jan, who had leaped up from below


    and was now ring at Zora, his chest heaving with anger.


    Caught off guard by Jan''s sudden appearance, Zora stared at the enraged man, clearly taken


    aback.


    My heart raced as I watched the scene unfold, noticing out of the corner of my eye that Larkin was


    slowly moving in their direction.


    Jan marched toward her, pointing and shouting, "How dare you messing with my child! Hand him


    over quickly, or else, Zora, today you''re done for!" Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    Jan''s bravado was on full disy for all to see, striding toward Zora without a care.

 Chapter 495

    Chapter 495


    Her antics scared me so much that I didn''t dare to breathe too loudly, terrified that any sound might


    startle her into falling.


    "Jan, cut the crap with your threats," she spat with venom. "You done using me, huh? And now you


    have the nerve to boss me around, demanding the kid? By what right?"


    "He''s my son!" Jan roared, unable to contain his fury.


    "Now you remember you want your son, it¡¯s toote! Ha-ha-ha..."


    Herughter was almost maniacal, echoing in my chest with every heave of her body, my heart


    clenching in time with her swings.


    Zoraughed to the brink and then abruptly stopped, her eyes narrowing into slits as she red at


    Jan, "Even if I die, I''m taking him with me. You''ll live with guilt for the rest of your life, tasting the


    agony of losing a child!"


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Jan hadn''t anticipated such defiance, and he realized hismands had failed. He watched Zora,


    now at her brink of madness,pletely at a loss.


    "Zora, please, calm down!" I pleaded softly, "Don''t do something rash... just breathe!"


    "Calm down my ass! You bring these people up here and expect me to stay cool? I''ve got nothing to


    live for today anyway. Jan, you treated me like a damn circus act, you wanted a kill, I delivered, you


    wanted..." Her voice broke as tears began to stream down her face.


    Jan quickly cut her off as if afraid she might spill too much, "Shut it, Zora. Juste here. As long


    as the kid''s safe, we can talk this out. You can keep all the money you took, but if you so much as


    scratch him..."


    I never thought I''d see the day when Jan would say money didn''t matter.


    "Ha-ha-ha, and then what? You''ve all backed me into a corner. What are you gonna do, kill me? Yeah,


    that''s right! I don''t want to live!"


    Zora had that ''I''ve got nothing to lose'' look, her gaze holding a dark secret as she taunted Jan,


    "You''ve got nothing over me anymore, because they''re all dead... all gone!"


    "So, I might as well take him with me, save you the lifelong obsession," her face twisted as she turned


    to me, "Aaliyah, if I don''t die today, I''lle after those little brats. I''ll wipe out your whole damn


    Dawson lineage, it''s what you owe me! No one ever gave me the time of day... Jan, not even you.


    Did you really think I was clueless? Not knowing you were using me, all those dirty jobs you had me do,


    weren¡¯t they just to pin the me on me?"


    Zora sobbed uncontrobly. Her cries startled Carl into silence; he looked at Zora with such an


    innocent confusion that it tugged at the heartstrings.


    Feeling the storm of emotions from Zora, he seemed to sense the danger, his tiny arms clinging


    desperately to Zora''s neck.


    Then, Zora suddenly turned to Jan and demanded, "Tell me, did you ever truly n to take me to


    Australia?"


    Jan hesitated, and I had the urge to kick him for being such an idiot.


    "Shut your mouth!" Jan lunged forward, and Zora prepared to make a move that suggested no


    turning back.


    Carl looked back at me and Jan, his small voice pleading, "Mommy... Daddy..." Co?tent of


    Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    I yanked Jan back, yelling furiously, "You''re going to get him killed!"


    Her body immediately arched backward, out of control, as she began to fall.

 Chapter 496

    Chapter 496


    Everyone at the scene gasped, helplessly watching as Zora falling.


    Instinctively, I let out a cry, "Carl..."


    In that critical moment, Zora fiercely flung little Carl from her embrace. Carl¡¯s cries were heart-


    wrenching as his tiny body was tossed into the air, rapidly descending.


    I eximed in horror, "Carl!"


    Simultaneously, a figure leaped forward, arms outstretched towards Carl, and I lunged too...


    Those arms caught Carl and rolled on the ground to cushion the fall, while I stumbled on a rock and


    plunged forward.


    As I fell, Hannah grabbed my hand tightly, and we were both hanging on the edge of the cliff.


    Several people rushed over and heaved us up. Instinctively, I looked back; the cliff was bottomless, and


    Zora had vanished without a trace.


    While I was still in shock, I heard Larkin, who was holding Carl, yell, "Miss, Carl''s been hurt!"


    I was stunned, rushing to Larkin''s side. Carl was still crying, his little face beet-red and his eyes


    despairingly looking at me, while his arm bled profusely.


    The bullet had gone through Carl''s arm before striking Zora''s shoulder!


    It was clear that the shooter hadn''t cared about Carl''s life; they didn¡¯t intend to leave him alive.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Fortunately, the bullet had missed his body and not hit any vital organs, but it had left a dark, gaping


    wound in his tiny arm.


    Frozen in horror, I stared at the wound, ovee with pain, when someone shouted, "Quick, stop the


    bleeding and get him to the hospital!"


    That snapped me out of it, and with a heart full of anguish, I touched his head and cried, "Carl! Don''t


    cry, Mommy''s here..."


    Hannah swiftly tore off a strip from her white tee and tightly bound Carl''s arm with it.


    Larkin announced, "I''ll take him to the hospital, Hannah,e with me! Everyone else, search the


    area, find the shooter!"


    ¡°Make way!¡± Everyone was calling out.


    Only then did I notice the abrasions on Larkin''s arms!


    He sprinted down the hill with Carl in his arms like a wild stag, while I sat on the ground, watching him


    disappear from my sight, murmuring, "Carl..."


    Jan stood frozen for a long time before approaching me, reaching out to help me up. I swatted his


    hand away.


    I pushed Hannah, "Go with them, hurry!"


    "No way, the situation is unclear, I can''t leave you!" she insisted, grabbing me, "Get up, we need to get


    down this hill!"


    I had no time to refuse before Hannah hoisted me onto her back and ran down the hill, the wind


    whistling by my ears.


    Upon reaching the hospital, Carl had already been rushed into the emergency room.


    Larkin and two cops stood by the door, grave-faced.


    "How is Carl? How''s my boy?" I rushed to the door, questioning Larkin.


    "Miss, calm down! He''s in surgery!"


    Hearing his words, I staggered. Surgery? All I could imagine was that brutal, bloody hole.


    Just then, Jan ran up to me, and, unable to contain myself, I pped him hard across the face. He


    stood there dazedly, staring at me.


    Jan''s face was a mask ofplex emotions, but I believed that among them was hatred.


    Hannah held onto me, teetering on the edge, consoling, "Allie, don''t panic, it''ll be okay! He''s going to


    make it!"


    I cradled my head, feeling powerless, silently praying in my heart that nothing would go wrong.


    He was so young, why did he have to go through so much? What had I done wrong to make my child


    suffer like this? Re§Ñd at


    "Calm down! The surgery isn¡¯t done, we''re running out of sma, let go!" she said, struggling free from


    my grasp.


    "Yes, Type B!" the first nurse confirmed, quickly taking the tray.


    Hearing their conversation, I froze in ce, and the next second, I grabbed the nurse...

 Chapter 497

    Chapter 497


    I grabbed the nurse as she hurried past, my voiceced with urgency, "You''re saying the kid inside has


    Type B blood?"


    "Yes!" She nced at me with certainty, then spun on her heel and dashed back into the ER.


    I stood there, thunderstruck.


    Type B? I''m Type A, and Jan''s Type O. How on earth could the kid be Type B?


    Slowly, my gaze shifted to Jan, who had overheard my question to the nurse and was now avoiding


    my eyes.


    "Jan!" I bellowed, my roar echoing through the hall, drawing stares from everyone.


    I lunged at him, grabbed his shirt cor, and with wild eyes, demanded, "Tell me... whose child is that?"


    The question stunned everyone into silence, even Hannah, who had been keeping a wary eye on


    Jan. My rage was palpable as I bore into Jan''s eyes, "Where is my child?"


    "How should I know!" he retorted, prying my hands off and pushing me away.


    Then Hannah swiftly kicked him out.


    Hearing his words, despair overwhelmed me and my vision blurred. When I came to, Ronan''s eyes met


    mine. I just stared back silently, unable to speak.


    Finally, he smiled softly, his voice gentle, "You''re awake?"


    "Where''s Jan?" I asked, emotionless.


    "The cops took him in for questioning."


    "I want to see him!" My tone was resolute.


    As I struggled to sit up, Ronan gently pressed me back down. "Easy, the police will get the answers


    you''re looking for."


    Tears streamed down my face as I clutched at Ronan, "Ronan, please help me find my child. I have to


    find him!"


    "Don''t worry, we''ll find him. Logan''s already on it," he reassured me.


    Something in his words caught my attention.


    "He''s already looking for my son?" I asked, suspicion coloring my voice. "You knew Carl wasn''t my


    son?"


    "When you told me about Zora''s obsession with Carl, I started to suspect," Ronan admitted, not hiding


    anything. "So I asked Logan to dig deeper."


    "So this child belongs to Zora. But where''s mine? My Carl?" I cried in despair. All these years, I had


    been looking after Zora and Jan''s child, but where was my son?


    "Ronan, I''ve been so wrong for so many years!" I sobbed, my heart breaking, "No wonder Zora was so


    devoted to this child. No wonder they wouldn''t let me near when he was sick. No wonder her phone


    was full of his pictures. No wonder she taunted me, time and again..."


    I grabbed Ronan''s arm, "Jan knows. He definitely knows where my child is. Ask him, they must have


    hidden my child somewhere."


    He nodded firmly.


    "This is all too terrifying," I murmured, curling into myself, pondering the scenes that yed out since I


    had woken up. It never crossed my mind that Zora would switch out my child.


    She was a devil, her malevolence far beyond what I could have imagined.


    Now I understood what ra meant to say before she died; Zora had switched my child.


    I clutched my head, letting out a wail of anguish.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Ronan quickly enveloped me in his arms,forting, "Stop thinking about it. We will find your child."


    Grasping Ronan, I pressed, "What about Zora? Have you found her? I need to know where she hid my


    child." New ch§Ñpter av?ble on Dr§Ñman§àvels.c§à§Þ


    "We found her, but... she''s dead."


    "Dead?" I gasped, "How could she die? How could she be dead..."


    "Don''t worry. I promise I''ll bring him back to you," Ronan pledged solemnly.


    Just then, Hannah briskly entered, she reported, "Carl''s awake!"

 Chapter 498

    Chapter 498


    I lifted my head from Ronan''s embrace, my eyes brimming with tears as I gazed at him, lost in a daze.


    It took me a moment to find my voice, thick with emotion, "I have to go see him!"


    Hannah looked at Ronan, then at me as I struggled to get out of bed. She rushed to my side, "Allie, you


    need to rest more!"


    "I have to see him!" My heart was heavy with the thought of Zora''s child, the very reason I was torn


    from my own son, Carl.


    If not for him, how could I ever have been separated from my own flesh and blood?


    I remember so vividly when Carl was born. The doctor had shown him to me, chuckling, "What a


    handsome boy, weighing 7 pounds and 4 ounces. Listen to him cry; so strong, so full of life!"


    But when did this child take Carl''s ce by my side? Where was my son?


    No wonder everyone says he doesn''t resemble me. He doesn''t look anything like my children!


    Stubbornly, I got out of bed, feeling as light as if I were walking on clouds, my head heavy and my feet


    barely touching the ground.


    Hannah supported me as we went to Carl''s intensive care unit. He was fussing, his cries soft, like a


    kitten''s.


    I approached, and he immediately saw me, bursting into louder sobs and crying out, "Mommy!"


    That single word tore at my heart. I bent down, studying his face through my tears. The more I looked,


    the more he resembled Zora. And yet, he called me "mommy," but I was not his mother.


    "Mommy! Mommy... baby''s scared!" His cries were so pitiful.


    He said he was scared, but was my son scared without me by his side? While the impostor child yed


    andughed in my arms, what was happening to my own? Did he have someone to coddle andfort


    him?


    I couldn''t bear to think any longer and turned to leave. But the moment Carl saw me move, he began to


    wail, struggling against the restraints, "Mommy, mommy, I need mommy! Mommy, don''t go..."


    Completely overwhelmed, I copsed to my knees, my head thrown back in anguish, "What should I


    do, my son? Where are you?"


    Meanwhile, Carl continued to cry, "Mommy, I¡¯m a good boy, don''t leave me... I''ll stop crying! Mommy..."


    He cried while reaching out to me, his little hand stretching out desperately.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I couldn''t resist turning back to him. Seeing him struggling to sit up, the nurses unable to hold him back,


    his eyes filled with such sorrow, crying as if his little heart would break.


    My heart softened, and I rushed to him, soothing him. He clutched my hand tightly with his good one,


    afraid I would leave him again, his face wet with tears and snot.


    I leaned in close, my tears mingling with his.


    His injured arm was swollen and bound to his body to prevent movement, and it seemed like half of his


    little form was swollen as well.


    I felt painful too, after all, he called me "mommy." I cuddled him, "No more crying... my... child...


    Mommy''s here."


    Calling him "my child" wrenched my heart, but what else could I do? He was just a child; what had he


    done to deserve this suffering? And in his heart, I was his mommy.


    I remembered the scene on the cliff, him hitting Zora, calling her ''bad'' and crying for ''mommy.''


    Sure enough, he slowly stopped wailing, his sobs turning to sniffles as he licked his wet lips.


    I reached for a tissue that Hannah handed me and wiped his face clean.


    His little eyes stayed glued to my face, full of fear that I might leave again, his gaze pitiful.


    "Mommy... I¡¯m a good boy," he huped, waving his little hand, "Won''t... won''t cry!" New ch§Ñpter


    av?ble on


    But where was my child? Was he happy and well?


    The thought of his circumstances was unbearable; could he too find someone kind-hearted to look after


    him?

 Chapter 499

    Chapter 499


    Exhausted from crying, and burdened by his injury, it wasn''t long before Carl drifted back into a fitful


    sleep. But it wasn''t a peaceful rest; he''d whimper and wail intermittently, clearly in pain.


    The doctor reassured me that it was lucky the main artery hadn''t been hit, just muscle tissue, but given


    the boy''s tender age, we had to keep a close eye on him.


    I resolved to stay put in the small town until his wounds healed, postponing our return to Goldenvale


    Town.


    After getting the doctor to administer a mild sedative, I took Hannah and headed straight to the local


    sheriff''s office to confront the detained Jan.


    Seeing him, I felt a surge of rage so fierce I could have torn out his heart. But I kept my cool, asking


    him, "Tell me where you''ve sent my child."


    At first, Jan yed dumb, iming he didn¡¯t understand.


    I mmed my fist on the table, anger boiling over. "You really think I''m that gullible? Or are you keen on


    spending your life behind bars? Because I can make that wishe true!"


    Iid out all the pieces of the puzzle before him, peppering him with questions until his face went pale.


    "I swear, Aaliyah, I have no idea where that woman took the kid. I''m telling you the truth; I just don''t


    know."


    He was stubborn, almost insolent. "I had my reasons, okay? She used this to ckmail me, forcing me


    to give in, threatening Carl''s well-being. I asked her a thousand times, but she wouldn''t budge. What


    could I do?"


    "Jan, are you even human? You''ve gambled away your business, your family, your own flesh and


    blood for a fling. How can you live with yourself?" I was livid. "It should have been you who died!"


    Those were my raw, unfiltered thoughts. What good was this excuse of a man still breathing when


    Zora, the only lead to finding my son, was now six feet under?


    I remembered when I was pregnant with Carl, Zora suddenly imed a family emergency back home


    and took an eight-month leave, only returning when I was about to give birth. She looked healthier and


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    a bit bigger then.


    I joked with her, "Looks like going home did you good; you¡¯ve put on some weight, huh?"


    She admitted to some family business but wouldn''t borate, and I didn''t press.


    Now it seemed obvious that during those eight months, she must have been hiding out in Goldenvale


    Town, waiting to give birth.


    I couldn''t quite recall Jan''s activities back then, but I remembered how he was especially busy when


    I was seven to eight months along, often workingte.


    It all pointed to that being the time Zora was delivering her child.


    Looking at Jan, disheveled from two days in custody, I felt nothing but disgust. Knowing he was


    aware of Zora''s son was enough; there was no point in pressing him further.


    I got up and said to Hannah, "Let''s go."


    Jan panicked, standing up quickly. "Honey..."


    "Don''t you dare call me that!" I roared back, revolted by his address.


    Hannah scoffed in disdain.


    Without another word, I left the sheriff''s office with Hannah.


    Outside, Hannah asked, "Do you believe what he said?" Co?tent of Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    "He wasn''t lying; he probably doesn''t know where Carl is. Otherwise, he wouldn''t asionally yield to


    Zora. He was telling the truth about that."


    "How do you know he was taking them for Zora?" Hannah asked, puzzled.

 Chapter 500

    Chapter 500


    I nced at Hannah. "At the hospital, I noticed Zora''s phone screensaver was a photo taken back then,


    with the backdrop of those ssic windowttices at the Silverdale City old mansion!"


    "So that''s what it was!"


    I blurted out without thinking, "Which makes Jan aplete idiot! Even if Carl was switched, he


    didn''t care enough. Otherwise, I can''t believe he couldn''t find where he is in three years!"


    I held back the tears in my eyes and said through clenched teeth, "He''s not fit to be a father!"


    "That man is a useless dumbass," Hannah cursed, her hatred palpable.


    "I''m also dumb," I said with a bitter smile, shaking my head. "I was fooled, thinking I was doing a great


    job as a mom, even priding myself on how unique this child was turning out to be."


    "Allie... what are you nning to do with the kid?"


    The question tore at me, the one I dreaded the most.


    Hannah realized her timing might have been off and quickly changed the subject, "Also, should we


    head back to the hospital?"


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    I took a deep breath, standing at the entrance of the police station, gazing at the unfamiliar streets, and


    said faintly, "We''ll talk about itter. After all, he''s been with me for a few years now. Where can I even


    send him?"


    The image of his tear-streaked face crying for ''mommy'' shed before my eyes, and I murmured to


    myself, "Where can I send him?"


    Back at the hospital, Carl was still sound asleep, probably due to the sedatives. He was resting


    peacefully, his breathing even, but his little face was pale, like an injured rag doll.


    I sat by his side, watching over him. Let Jan take care of him? That good-for-nothing had no clue


    how to care for a child. How could I let this kid suffer with him? I was certain under Jan''s care, the


    Dawsons would treat him poorly. He''d be better off dead, and Jerome certainly didn''t want him alive.


    And Zora had no family left. All of them, just gone.


    Keep him with me? Iughed at myself. What a saint I was! Was I really going to raise my rival''s child?


    But then I remembered Zora''sst moments, desperately throwing him to safety. Even someone as


    cruel as her had a moment of kindness. In the face of death, she pushed him towards life. Even a devil


    has a warm side; a mother''s instinct to trade her life for her child''s.


    How could I be the viin, stripping him of that hope?


    Life sure is tough on me, after all, I¡¯m just an ordinary person!


    I picked up the phone and called my dad.


    He answered quickly, his voice warm andforting, like being wrapped in his embrace, "Sweetheart!"


    "Dad," I called softly, my voice thick with emotion, but I fought back the tears.


    "What''s wrong, sweetheart?" The old fox could sense things before they were said.


    "Dad, I''ve run into some trouble! I need your advice," I said, barely holding back my tears.


    There was a long silence, but he didn''t press, just waited patiently.


    Finally, I gathered my courage and told him everything, not leaving out a single detail.


    His words were resolute and gave me strength.


    "Dad, you''re truly kind-hearted," I said with relief, smiling for the first time in a while. "When he''s a bit


    better, I''ll bring him back to Silverdale City."


    "And... we must find your own son as soon as possible!" Dad''s voice suddenly choked up.

 Chapter 501

    Chapter 501


    I had spent a full week in the quaint little city, waiting for Carl''s wounds to heal before we could fly back


    to Goldenvale Town.


    As soon as we stepped out of the airport, there was Catherine waiting to pick us up.


    Her eyes immediately fell on Carl''s still bandaged arm, a look of concern washing over her face. She


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    reached out to him, "Let me get a big hug for you, sweetie. How about it?"


    Carl''s head shook like a bobblehead as he burrowed into my shoulder, "I want Mommy!"


    Ever since the injury, Carl had be clingy and quiet, sticking to me like glue.


    We all piled into the car, and in a hushed tone, Catherine asked me, "Is Zora really..."


    I nced at Carl snuggled in my arms and gave her a look that said ''not now''. Carl these days was too


    perceptive, and I didn''t want to upset him further.


    Catherine mped her lips shut.


    The Rhylee family tragedy had rocked the little mountain vige overnight. Their neighbors had heard


    themotion that night, and when Zora Rhylee fled, vigers had curiously ventured into the Rhylee


    home¡ªonly to run out screaming, their terror awakening the entire vige.


    Of course, the police were called. As we cornered Zora up on the mountain, the police swarmed the


    ce down below. After all, a triple homicidemitted by one''s own daughter sent shockwaves


    through the county and beyond.


    Soon after, word spread that the perpetrator had been shot dead.


    Ronan Stewart had squashed all the news, especially the part about Zora''s child swap, to avoid any


    trouble and indirectly protect Carl and me from criticism.


    Jerome''s men had suffered ¡ª two dead, one critically injured. Ronan had deliberately let the survivor


    go.


    In truth, not many knew Carl wasn''t my child.


    Rumors said Jan had been detained for a few days before being released. With Zora gone and no


    solid evidence, they couldn''t hold him long. Plus, Medsafe Liyah Inc. had been working overtime to


    conclude the handover set for Monday.


    As for me, my joy was overshadowed by thoughts of my actual son.


    Since finding out, I had been gued by insomnia, haunted by visions of a little boy crying out for his


    mother in my sleepless nights.


    Meanwhile, Logan was tirelessly searching for clues. He hadbed through the hospital records


    where I''d given birth to Carl ¡ª everything was in order from birth to discharge.


    Yet how Zora did it at home remained a mystery, with no trace on any surveince.


    Logan, however, had dug up the private clinic where Zora gave birth.


    It was quite a decent ce, and Zora had been admitted three months before me, meaning my own


    child was three months younger than Carl.


    This revtion tore at my heart. My baby was smaller, younger by three months. Zora and Jan had


    been together even before I was pregnant with Carl.


    My hatred for Jan grew, and I vowed not to let that scumbag off easy.


    And Jerome, regardless of the blood ties, showed no mercy toward Carl. He was still so young, yet


    Jerome''s men had shot him without hesitation.


    His rage boiled over as he confronted me, "Aaliyah, after all these years, why do this to me?"


    I couldn''t help butugh at his fury, "When you repeatedly tried to kill me, did you ever think of our ''all


    these years'' then?" Content of Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    As for the shareholders, they submitted evidence of Jessica''s thirty million swindle to the court.


    Before the ceremony could conclude, the siblings were taken away by the police.

 Chapter 502

    Chapter 502


    After taking the reins again, I handed over the entirety of Medsafe Liyah Inc. to Addrion''s capable


    hands. Though it retained its name, it was apletely newpany.


    I gave the boot to everyst employee that the Dawson n had brought on board.


    Caleb remained as the General Manager, settling into Medsafe Liyah Inc. as a technical shareholder,


    aiding Addrion in steering thepany.


    The day the handover waspleted, Addrion, after years away, finally crossed the threshold of his


    long-missed home.


    When that door swung open, I witnessed a scene that could melt a heart of stone.


    His wife froze solid at the sight of Addrion, a full five minutes of stunned silence before erupting into


    heart-wrenching sobs. Their embrace and tears were touching for us.


    Especially me, thinking they were finally reunited, but what about me and my little boy? When would he


    return to my arms?


    After sorting everything out in Goldenvale Town, I, along with Carl and Helga, Brenda, Hannah, and


    more, made our way back to Silverdale City.


    Actually, my dad was worried sick about Carl and me, and the kids were about to start school in a week


    ¡ªI had to bring Fidelia back from Goldenvale Town.


    But none of us could have foreseen the tumultuous turn of events that would arise because of Fidelia


    Dawson.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    But that''s a tale to tell slowly, in due time.


    Back in Silverdale City, my parents fussed over Carl''s injuries, which had improved significantly.


    Proudly, he dered to his grandparents, "Grammy, it doesn''t hurt! I didn''t cry at all. Mommy says I''m


    brave, a good baby!"


    My mom, seeing his scar and hearing his brave words, teared up, "Oh, my poor baby! You¡¯ve been


    through so much."


    She cradled Carl, patting his back and searching my face for answers about my own son, the one with


    no news yet. I shook my head, my heart heavy.


    She didn''t press further, instead, she chatted with Carl, who clung to me, his hand gripping the hem of


    my shirt.


    I regretted letting him sense my desire to leave that day, which traumatized his little heart.


    Truth be told, I''m only an ordinary person. Ever since I found out he was Jan and Zora''s child, I''ve


    been tormented with conflict.


    That''s why my dad urged me toe home¡ªhe understood my turmoil.


    That night, once Carl was asleep, my dad and I talked until dawn, unraveling many knots in my heart.


    Home never felt so good. The next day, I slept in until 2 PM.


    My dad had good news: someone had approached VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. It seemed Jerome''s


    backers were making moves¡ªan excellent sign.


    Everything was unfolding ording to n. But I sensed something off with Fidelia; she seemed


    distracted, anxious, and kept sneaking peeks at her phone.


    I didn''t confront her but watched her closely, having Hannah subtly befriend her.


    Late at night, when everyone was asleep, I tiptoed into Monique and Fidelia''s room.


    There were secrets in that phone. Updated at Dr§Ñmanovels


    I reached out, giving a tug, and her grip tightened, startling me.


    She was clearly on edge these past few days, but why?


    I looked down and, to my delight, the phone had slipped from her grasp.

 Chapter 503

    Chapter 503


    I hesitated for a moment, feeling a twinge of guilt like I was about to snoop through someone''s diary.


    But curiosity overcame me, and I reached for her phone. It had a fingerprint lock. I thought for a


    second, then gently lifted her hand and pressed it against the sensor. The phone clicked open, and I


    quickly started scrolling through her messages.


    At the top of the chat list was an icon that was simply an eye, dark and cat-like, with a vertical pupil. It


    was unsettling.


    I tapped on it, only to find that the chat waspletely empty.


    A cold shiver ran down my spine. This meant that the conversation had been deliberately erased.


    She was definitely hiding something. Could she be threatened by someone?


    The second chat was from Cami, which I recognized from my own phone. Most of it was video call


    history and a few voice messages. I yed them, and they were all reminders for Fidelia to behave, to


    be good, and to get along with us.


    Next, I opened her photo album. It was filled with shots of Oldtown Avenue.


    There were group selfies and a bunch of solo shots that looked like Monique¡¯s work.


    There were also multiple photos of our ancestral home, with every nook and cranny captured in vivid


    detail. There was even a video walkthrough from the front door to all the rooms. It wasbeled ''short


    clip,'' but it was anything but short. The whole house wasid out bare.


    And there was the backyard, too, with every detail of itsyout recorded.


    I was puzzled. Ever since Gemma had been taken away, I''d had Dad lock up the backyard to prevent


    strangers from wandering in.


    Though Oldtown Avenue wasn''t officially open to the public, the asional tourist dide by, and I


    wanted to avoid any potential trouble.


    It seemed Fidelia had taken these photos and videos before the lockdown.


    There was nothing else of interest on the phone. I took a picture of the creepy eye icon and user ID


    with my own phone before carefully recing hers. I left the girls'' room and headed back to my own.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Carl had been sleeping with me, and he was deep in sleep, his injured arm instinctively extended, too


    scared to move it much. Poor kid must have been traumatized.


    Iy back down, the image of that sinister eye haunting me. Was it Jerome''s ount?


    What had he said to Fidelia to make her so anxious? The household videos might have been


    innocently sent to Cami, but what if they''d been sent to Jerome...


    I sat bolt upright, a sense of foreboding washing over me.


    The safety in Oldtown Avenue was always good. But if someone wanted to sneak in, it would be a


    piece of cake.


    I got out of bed again and walked out of the room, only to bump into Hannah. Our rooms were just


    across the patio from each other.


    She shed me a grin and hurried over, whispering, "What did you find?"


    "How''d you know?" I asked, surprised.


    "I saw you go into Monique''s room," she said quickly.


    I pulled her aside and we tiptoed downstairs while I borated, "I found a suspicious contact with a


    creepy cat eye for a profile picture. It was at the top of her chat list, but the chat was empty. It''s been


    deleted. But she must have been talking to this person a lot for it to be ranked first."


    "A cat eye?" Hannah questioned, her brow furrowed.


    I showed her the photo I''d taken on my phone. "I think it''s Jerome''s!"


    She looked at the image and suggested, "Did you friend the ount? Why don''t you add him?"


    Hannah was quick on the uptake. "Did you see who she sent them to?"


    I shook my head. "I don¡¯t think she sent them to Cami."


    We were deep in the backyard now when Hannah asked, "Why did you bring me here?"


    "I wanted to check out the back courtyard!" Updated at Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "Didn''t you lock it up?" she inquired.


    She called after me, "Hey! Where are you going?"


    I gave her a smile, "Just wait here. I forgot the keys!"

 Chapter 504

    Chapter 504


    We swung the gate open to the backyard, which was shrouded in darkness. I''m not gonna lie, I


    would''ve been majorly freaked out if I''de alone.


    Whipping out her phone, Hannah flicked on the shlight, scattering beams across the yard. The


    silhouettes of the shrubs danced on the walls, the trellis stood deste under the shadowy moonlight,


    and the rocking chair sat still in the gloom.


    In the dead of night, the ce felt downright eerie. I whispered to Hannah, "Let''s check inside."


    She nodded in agreement. I too turned on my shlight, casting a stronger glow around us.


    But just as we stepped toward the quaint cottage, a thud echoed from the back garden. Hannah spun


    on her heel and dashed toward a gate to the side, the usual route to the back.


    I followed suit, guessing someone must have leapt from a window, which sent a chill up my spine.


    As I turned to follow, two dark figures darted out of the building. By the time I shone my shlight their


    way, all I caught was a fleeting glimpse of their retreating backs.


    "Hannah!" I shouted.


    "What''s up?" she called back.


    "We''ve been duped! They''re gone!" I was still in a state of shock. "Looks like we''re not alone in this


    garden."


    Fuming, Hannah sprinted after the shadows, but they had vanished into the night. She hurried back,


    not wanting to leave me alone.


    "The sound was definitely someone jumping down," she huffed in frustration.


    "Let''s check the back and we''ll know," I said, not ready to give up. We passed through the moon-


    shaped gate and headed for the back garden.


    The backyard was surprisingly spacious, easily over sixty square meters. It looked like it once served


    as a vegetable patch, now neglected yet oddly tidy.


    Beneath the window, there were no signs of a break-in, but we spotted two deep footprints. Someone


    had indeed jumped from the second story.


    Looking up, the corresponding window was ajar.


    Hannah and I exchanged a nce, saying in unison, "Three people!"


    This realization sent a shiver down my spine. Three people had been hiding here, clearly not friends, or


    they wouldn''t have run off.


    In one cornery a pile of stones and tiles, likely materials for repairs. They provided the perfect


    leverage for a quick escape. Demonstrating, Hannah leapt onto the pile and vaulted over the wall.


    The moment Hannah disappeared from view, I won''t lie, the backyard felt downright spooky. I hurried


    back through the gate to the front parlor.


    Soon enough, Hannah was back, panting, "This ce is a maze, a perfect hideout. Someone could


    vanish in a heartbeat."


    My skin crawled, but I mustered the courage to suggest, "Let''s go inside and look around."


    Together, we ventured into the cottage. I found a switch by the front door and flicked it on; the garden


    was instantly illuminated.


    "Great, there''s a light!" Hannah grumbled. "Would''ve been nice to know sooner!"


    "I forgot there were lights here." I said, sheepishly.


    "Damn it! This ce has turned into a squat!" Hannah''s anger grew with every room we entered.


    There were four rooms on the second floor, each with signs of recent upation, a study, and a small


    living area. The tea on the living room table was still warm.  Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    "Let''s figure out who these people are," Hannah said. "I''ll report this to the boss. There must be a


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    reason they came here; they wouldn''t stay for no reason."


    She dialed Ronan, detailing the situation from top to bottom.


    After she hung up, I told Hannah, "Looks like tomorrow we need to track down the contacts from


    Fidelia''s phone."

 Chapter 505

    Chapter 505


    Hannah nced my way with a nod, "Never thought they''d exploit Fidelia like that."


    "Guess we were toocent, should''ve seen iting," I mused aloud to Hannah while pondering


    another issue.


    "Let''s head downstairs," I suggested, tugging at her sleeve.


    We descended the staircase, and Hannah reached to flick off the lights. I stopped her, "Leave them


    on."


    She caught on and nodded, "I have a hunch they haven''t gone far."


    "But surely they won''t daree back here today!" I surveyed the backyard, truth be told, I''d always


    had a soft spot for this ce.


    After a moment''s thought, Hannah bent down and picked up a maple leaf, carefully wedging it in the


    door frame. She gave it a pull to test; unless someone opened the door, it wouldn''t fall.


    I grinned at her cleverness.


    Exiting the courtyard, I took a moment to shut the gate properly without locking it. We then circled back


    to the rear garden of our own ce, where I secured the padlock on the back gate.


    Once inside, I ced the keys on the hall stand, and we both made our way upstairs to the family


    quarters. Peeking in on Carl, I saw he had turned over in his sleep, his little mouth moving as if nursing


    ¨C he looked utterly adorable.


    But every time I saw him like this, my heart sank, and I couldn''t help but think of my own son, alive


    somewhere out there, unknown.


    Feeling a lump in my throat, I stepped out of the room. Hannah gestured towards Fidelia''s room, "I''ll


    snoop around her tomorrow. Let''s y it cool, see what she''s up to next."


    I nodded, "Right, don''t spook her. We need to figure out who these people are, what they''re after."


    Easier said than done, I thought, bracing for the inevitable trouble ahead.


    "I''ll try and befriend that cat eye ount," Hannah proposed. "It could be Jerome, I¡¯ll slip into his DMs,


    see if he spills anything."


    Hannah gave me a mischievous wink, a sly smile spreading across her face.


    "Just be careful, and maybe run it by your boss first," I cautioned her. "If Jerome only has Fidelia as a


    contact, that could definitely tip them off."


    "You''re right. We need to find out who Fidelia sent those photos or videos to," she said. "If they didn''t


    have detailed info on this ce, like with the courtyard, they wouldn''t dare to trespass. This is private


    property. Their boldness says it all."


    I listened as Hannah spected, then whispered, "My fear is, those who dared to enter the courtyard


    will dare to enter here as well."


    Hannah fell silent for a long while before finally speaking, "That would be truly terrifying."


    "Tomorrow, I''ll talk to Fidelia," she said, looking at me.


    "Stick close to them tomorrow," I advised. "Keep an eye on her, see if anything else is off."


    Suddenly, Carl''s cries echoed from the room. I rushed in to find him sitting up in bed, his little face


    twisted in sorrow, calling out, "Mommy!"


    I sat down beside him, and before I could speak, he crawled into myp, "¡­Mommy, don''t go¡­"


    "I''m here, baby, I just went to the bathroom," I soothed him, taking him in my arms. Helga knocked and


    entered, "What''s wrong, sweetheart?"


    "Do you need to pee?" I asked. He nodded.


    I couldn''t help but kiss his forehead, "Mommy won¡¯t leave you!"


    But my heart ached, knowing the price of having him meant losing my own son.


    He licked his teary lip, huped, and said, "Baby thirsty, Mommy!"


    Helga chuckled and went to get him water, "Out with the old, in with the new, right?"


    I teased, "Thirsty and hungry, and so clingy!"


    He guzzled the water and then looked at me seriously, "Mommy is good, Zora is bad."This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .

 Chapter 506

    Chapter 506


    I paused, caught off guard by his earnest gaze - he was trying to soothe me. A strange ache bubbled


    up in my heart; perhaps this was the real me through his eyes.


    "Go to bed. From now on, forget about the bad guys," I whispered to him gently. "Sleep, baby.


    Mommy''s not going anywhere. I''ll stay with you."


    He waved his little hand dismissively, "I don''t want Zora anymore! Bad!"


    "Okay, then sleep," I urged, as he scrutinized my face with his eyes.


    I felt a twinge of regret; a single gesture of leaving had filled him with such fear. What if I really


    abandoned him? What would be of him?


    I rocked him in my arms and soon his eyelids began to droop. But in my heart, I imagined my son,


    somewhere out there. Was he asleep? Was someone holding him just like this?


    The next day.


    Monique and Fidelia were punctual as ever at the breakfast table. Monique was a chatterbox, going on


    and on, while Fidelia ate in silence, listening to Monique''s prattle.


    Hannah slid into a seat and asked Monique, "Hey, kiddo, what''s the n for today? Mind if I tag along?


    I''m getting bored here, and I could use a little adventure with you guys!"


    Monique eyed Hannah, asked like an adult, "Are you sure you want to hang with us?"


    Hannah nodded, "Sure, why not? Your mom''s not going out, and you''ve got nothing nned! I might as


    well join you. Can I be your assistant?"


    After hearing this, Monique nced at me, "Mom, you''re not going out today? Just staying in?"


    I nodded nonchntly, "Yeah, I''m staying in. I''ll keep Grandmapany. Besides, your little brother''s


    been so clingy since his injury. Where could I possibly go?"


    Probert piped up at my words, "Mom, can I stay home with you too? I''ll take care of Carl!"


    Monique immediately objected, "No way, you can''t ck off. School''s about to start, and we''ve finished


    all our homework. We need to measure more houses. Don''t you always talk about Wood Manor? Let''s


    measure Wood Manor today!"


    At the mention of Wood Manor, I nodded vigorously, "Right, son, Wood Manor is the crown jewel of our


    street, a legacy of our family. You need to measure it well; it was your grandfather''s favorite."


    Hannah turned to me, "Oh, Allie, didn''t you say you needed someone to clean up the backyard? When


    is that happening? Just not today, please!"


    I caught her drift and replied casually, "Definitely not today. I''ll go check it outter and n the


    cleanup."


    I noticed Fidelia''s expression freeze for a moment as she listened intently to our conversation. Hannah


    and I exchanged nces. It seemed this child knew something about the backyard.


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Testing the waters, I said, "School''s starting soon. When do you want to head back to Goldenvale


    Town, Fidelia? Have you discussed it with your mom? Just pick a day, and I''ll take you."


    Caught off guard by my sudden question, Fidelia didn''t respond immediately.


    I stopped what I was doing and gently called her, "Fidelia¡­"


    Startled, she looked up, "Yes, Auntie?"


    I smiled, "What do you think? I was asking about when you''re heading back to Goldenvale Town for


    school. Have you and your mom decided on a day? I can drop you off."


    "I¡­ My mom didn''t say anything. She left it up to you!" Fidelia replied, her cheeks flushed.


    "Alright, over the next couple of days, I''ll take you out to pick up some local specialties to take back.


    Have you been in touch with your parentstely?"


    She nodded timidly, "Yes¡­ My mom said she woulde to pick me up if you''re too busy!"


    "Any word from your dad?" I asked casually.


    She shook her head quickly, "No."


    She looked at me, hesitating, until I encouraged her, "Speak up if you have something to say."


    That''s when she looked up and asked, "Auntie, is Grandma really gone?"


    Monique immediately turned to Fidelia, "Fidelia, who told you that? Why don''t I know anything about


    it?" Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    I nced at Monique and nodded solemnly, "Yes, your grandmother has passed away. It was very


    sudden."


    Before I could respond, Probert interjected meaningfully, "You think you''re that important?"


    Monique stiffened; she had always been a bit self-important, and Probert''sment hit her where it


    hurt.

 Chapter 507

    Chapter 507


    Monique was about to object when Probert went on, "They''ll never care about how us kids feel. We''re


    invisible to them, you know. You seem pretty upset, but me? I couldn''t care less!"


    At that, Fidelia nodded in agreement, "Even my mom doesn''t tell me anything. I heard it from a


    ssmate."


    "I thought you would hear from your mother.¡± Hannah chimed in, eager to join the conversation.


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "As if she would talk to me about that stuff. She still treats me like I''m a kid!" Fidelia''s voice carried a


    hint of resentment.


    "And your dad doesn''t ask about you?" Hannah asked with a curious look.


    Fidelia nced up at us, "He''s even less interested in what''s going on with me!"


    Hannah and I exchanged looks, silently wondering who the mysterious "cat''s eye" on Fidelia''s phone


    could be.


    We all finished our meal in silence, and just as we returned to the living room, my dad came out of his


    room with a phone in hand, smiling at me, "You''reing with me to VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals today.


    We''ve got visitors from Goldenvale Town!"


    "Visitors from Goldenvale Town?" I was surprised. "You mean... for a project coboration?"


    He nodded, "Exactly!"


    I was genuinely curious about who this visitor might be. "Did they say who it is?"


    "Nope," my dad shook his head. "But we have to meet them anyway, right? Business is business!"


    Hannah immediately said to me, "Looks like I''ll have to cancel my ns with the kids, then."


    I quickly reassured her, "You go ahead. It''s just an initial meeting. You don''t have to be there. Go do


    your thing!"


    Hannah looked uncertain, "Are you sure?"


    I nodded confidently, "Absolutely!"


    Hannah smiled and left with those children.


    Meanwhile, I waited for my dad to finish his meal, then asked Carl for a day off. He clung to Helga,


    tearfully asking me toe back soon.


    My mom quickly distracted him by ying games and shifted his attention elsewhere.


    But I never would have guessed that the visitor from Goldenvale Town would be Irving, and even more


    surprisingly, he brought Nettie with him.


    This was my third encounter with Nettie.


    Honestly, I had no fondness for Irving, especially after uncovering some of his schemes.


    It was unexpected to see him here, his persistence clear as day.


    Upon seeing me, he was all smiles, saying, "Ms. Wilburn, long time no see! Fate has a funny way of


    bringing people together, doesn''t it?"


    I greeted him with a lukewarm smile, "Mr. Bradlee, that''s very true. After the fallout with Medsafe Liyah


    Inc., I didn''t expect to bump into you so soon in Silverdale City!"


    Heughed heartily, "In business, you can''t afford to miss any opportunity! And with such an attractive


    project in your hands, I naturally want to be at the forefront. Ms. Wilburn, I hope you can consider our


    past acquaintance and give Elixir Pharma Limited a chance to be the early bird!"


    Iughed at his boldness, thinking to myself how brazen he was to even suggest such a thing.


    While we talked, Nettie stood quietly next to Irving, her expression calm and collected, a testament to


    herposure.


    Irving didn''t make any special introductions, leaving me to wonder what he was plotting. Since he didn''t


    make a big deal of it, neither did I.


    I left the home turf to my dad, as I wasn''t too familiar with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, especially his


    behind-the-scenes maneuvers. I didn''t want to act rashly. New ch?pter av?ble o? Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Irving quickly backpedaled, "I get it,pletely. I was out of line asking."


    But he couldn''t help asking, "I''ve heard that you have external technical support?"


    My dadughed, a knowing gleam in his eye that only I could recognize as shrewd calction.

 Chapter 508

    Chapter 508


    My dad was the epitome of modesty, and he said, "Mr. Bradlee, you certainly did your homework.


    Indeed, it''s the technical support from VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, and there''s a tech team, but it''s all


    about coboration, and I can''t give you the details."


    "I want to know the real criteria here, Mr. Wilburn. I''m here with genuine intentions." Irving was getting a


    bit anxious.


    But Galen wasn''t in a hurry. He ended the meeting for the day without revealing anything, let alone


    nning the rest.


    Back home, I quizzed my dad, "Dad, how much do you think he''ll put in with his capabilities?"


    "He''s just testing the waters," He replied confidently, "No rush."


    He then pointed out some loopholes in Irving''s proposition that I hadn''t even considered. I had to admit


    my dad was on another level.


    That evening, Hannah and the kids came back covered in grime, lookingpletely wiped out.


    "What happened to you guys?" I asked, baffled by their state, "Are you sure you went surveying, or did


    you guys demolish something?"


    Myment had them copsing intoughter, and my curiosity peaked, "What''s the story?"


    "Mom. You nailed it. Hannah''s got talent. We didn''t get anything done today, just rummaged through


    the attic at the Wood Manor." Monique said.


    I looked at them in disgust, preventing them from sitting down everywhere and dirtying the house, and


    ordered, "Go take a shower before youe down. You''re covered in dust."


    They scampered off to the back parlor, still giggling and yful.


    Carl, who was already dozing off, perked up at theirmotion and tugged at me to join the bathtime


    fun.


    "You? Why do you need a shower? You''re not dusty," I teased.


    "I got dust." he insisted, pulling me like a stubborn ox towards the parlor.


    Helga quickly intervened, "Sweetie, I have got some yummy food for you."


    He paused, looking at Helga, who promptly continued to tempt him. Finally, he tilted his head towards


    her, "No bath, want num nums."


    I raised an eyebrow at Helga, who scooped up Carl and headed for the kitchen while I made my way


    up to Hannah''s room upstairs.


    I barged in right as Hannah was finishing her shower, asking me to wait a bit.


    Soon enough, she emerged, drying her hair, and dropped a bombshell, "That ount with a cat¡¯s eye


    isn''t Jerome."


    I was incredulous, "What?"


    That threw me for a loop, "Then who could it be? How can you be so sure it wasn''t Jerome?"


    "We smoked them out." Hannah exined, "But they did record the Wood Manor today, in great detail.


    That''s how we stumbled upon the manor''s library, full of old volumes. As we were browsing those


    ancient books, I chatted with her casually. She spilled quite a bit about Jerome. I asked how long it had


    been since shest saw Jerome, and she said it hadn''t been since thatst video call she made using


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Cami''s phone."


    "So who could this cat''s eye be?" I wondered aloud, skeptical, "It''s not Cami either."


    "Could it be one of her ssmates?" I looked at Hannah for answers.


    "This is getting weird, Then who is it?" My curiosity was piqued.


    I patted her shoulder approvingly, "Clever move. We''ll just have to wait and see." Co?tent §àf


    Dra§Þa?ov§Öls.c§à§Þ


    "I did take a risk though, and that room is critical. I regretted setting that trap right after," Hannah


    admitted, rubbing her hair more vigorously.


    "I pressed her a few times, but she dodged the questions, so I didn''t push too hard," Hannah noted,


    "This kid''s savvy, not the naive sweetheart we imagined."


    I pondered for a moment and murmured, "If we still can''t figure it out, I have another trick up my


    sleeve."

 Chapter 509

    Chapter 509


    Hannah immediately pressed me for an answer, "Do you have any other tricks up your sleeve?"


    I pondered for a moment, then shook my head, "Only as ast resort. We can''t use it unless absolutely


    necessary."


    Hannah eyed me skeptically, trying to guess what I was thinking.


    Our gazes locked for a second before I broke the silence, "Let''s go with your n for now. Since we''ve


    already set the trap for her, we might as well wait."


    Hannah was getting impatient, "But Fidelia''s got to go back soon. School''s starting up again."


    I reassured her with confidence, "If they''ve got mischief in mind, they won''t be able to let go that easily.


    Maybe going back now is the pressure they need. Keep a close eye on Fidelia for the next couple of


    days. Maybe they''ll try to make her do something else. We just need to be ready. You set someone to


    keep a close watch on the surveince, and I think we need to keep an eye on the backyard, too. I''m


    not about to give them the stage for their drama."


    At that, Hannah¡¯s eyes lit up, and she shed a mischievous grin, "Aaliyah, you''ve got it all wrong. If


    they want to y games, why not let them do it right under our watchful eyes?"


    I looked at her sharply, and after a moment, I couldn''t help but smile, "Spot on."


    "I''ll get someone on it. Find the right time to spruce up the backyard.¡± Hannah said with a devious


    smile.


    "Let''s do it tomorrow. I''lle up with a reason," I said, as we struck a perfect chord, "After that, all we


    can do is wait."


    "You''re right. So, let¡¯s wait."


    After dinner, on a whim, I took Monique, Probert, Fidelia, and Hannah to the backyard.


    Hannah nced at the bamboo leaf that had been wedged in the door, but it was gone.


    This meant that those folks had been back herest night or today.


    Hannah and I exchanged knowing looks. It seemed these people were nning to squat here.


    Without showing my concern, I checked upstairs and downstairs again. Monique, acting every bit the


    have lived here? How did they get in?"


    I nodded in mock approval, "You''re spot on, sweetheart. It does look like we''ve had visitors."


    "We should call the cops. This is breaking." Monique dered indignantly, her spirit undeniably fiery.


    "The trespassers are long gone. What good would calling the cops do now? Better we start taking


    some preventative measures," Probert chimed in with his own opinion.


    "What kind of measures?" I asked, ying along.


    "Install some surveince cameras. Then we''ll see everything they''re up to. Once we catch them on


    camera, they''ll be easy to nab. Then we''ll find out why they came to our ce."


    I turned to Fidelia, "What do you think, Fidelia? Speak your mind."


    She avoided my gaze, hesitant to speak up.


    Before she could respond, Monique jumped in with her quick tongue, "I''m very suspicious. How did


    they even know this ce was empty?"


    "Could it be the tourists?" Hannah suggested, teasing the idea.


    "I doubt it. Tourists wouldn''t dare to trespass like this. Besides, the door''s always been locked, and


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    normal folks can''t just wander in. Good people don''t sneak around breaking into ces. It has to be the


    work of someone up to no good." Probert said with an air of certainty.


    Honestly, Probert was sharp, not the simpleton Hazel made him out to be.


    "You got it right," I affirmed.


    As I spoke, I kept a watchful eye on Fidelia. She seemed uneasy, quickly ncing around the room.


    I knew then that these people were definitely connected to the mystery person behind the cat''s eye.


    But to our disappointment, all was quiet. New ch§Ñpter av?ble on Dr§Ñman§àvels.c§à§Þ


    This meant Fidelia was feeling guilty.


    I found the cat''s eye person in the contacts and checked the profile, but there was nothing to see. I


    sighed and turned off the phone.

 Chapter 510

    Chapter 510


    When she was about to speak up, I quickly shushed her with a finger to my lips, motioning for her to


    follow me out of the room.


    Monique rolled out of bed with a huff and followed me, her small hand in mine as we made our way


    downstairs. She tried to wriggle free, but I held on tight until we reached the living room. That was


    when she yanked her hand away, her chin jutting out defiantly as she confronted me, "Mom, seriously?


    I didn''t think you were like that. Snooping through Fidelia''s phone? Have you been doing the same to


    mine? You''re just a little too controlling."


    Her words came out in a torrent of usation.


    I replied calmly, "It seems you''ve got quite a few grievances with me."


    "It''s not just grievances. I hate this sneaky behavior of yours. You shouldn''t be sneaking around.


    Grandpa said it was above board."


    I couldn''t help but feel a little proud inside. She sure had a strong sense of justice.


    The idea I had discussed with Hannah earlier that afternoon was now unavoidable.


    "What if it was a matter of necessity? What if I had to take a look without tipping anyone off?" I


    suggested.


    She stared at me, dumbfounded.


    "I don''t have a snooping problem," I continued, "But I''ve sensed that someone, a stranger possibly, is


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    getting ufortably close to us. Don''t you think I should figure out who they are and why they''re


    here?"


    Monique looked at me, half-convinced, her tone less sharp, "What do you mean? Are you talking about


    the person sneaking into the backyard?"


    She was alert, instantly picking up on the potential intruder.


    "It might be more than that," I confessed.


    Her curiosity turned to rm, "Are you serious?"


    I paused for a moment, considering how best to exin.


    "When I came back this time, I noticed something off about Fidelia. She''s always distracted, glued to


    her phone, and very cautious. Didn''t you notice anything?" I probed further, "You''re with her every day.


    Haven''t you seen any changes in hertely?"


    With my question hanging in the air, Monique''s defiance waned as she shook her head in disbelief.


    Leaning in close, she whispered, "How did you figure it out?"


    I pulled her onto a wooden chair and began to list the signs of Fidelia''s distraction.


    She listened intently, absorbing everything. I took the opportunity to teach her how to pick up on subtle


    cues in someone''s behavior. Monique was a keen learner with good instincts, and she just needed to


    lose a bit of naivety. My words seemed to win her over.


    "Did Fidelia ever take her vlogging very seriously?" I asked gently.


    She frowned in thought, then nodded, "Yeah, she did a whole tour of our old house, exining


    everything. I even helped her."


    "And did you ask why she was filming?"


    "She said it was for Cami," Monique answered quickly, "To show Cami what an old home looks


    like. There''s nothing wrong with that, right? She said Cami had never seen anything like it."


    "But did you make sure she actually sent it to Cami?"


    Monique shook her head.


    "Cat eye?" She looked puzzled.


    She nodded, "Sure."


    I reminded her, "But don''t ask too directly. Be subtle. you know what I mean?"


    She rolled her eyes with a touch of sass, "Mom, you underestimate me. I''ll handle it by tomorrow."


    Updated at Dra§Þ§Ñn§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "But what if she doesn''t want to talk about this person?"


    Monique''s eyes twinkled as she confidently assured me, "Don''t worry, Mom. I''ll get the truth out of her."


    Monique stood tall, filled with a sense of responsibility, "OK."

 Chapter 511

    Chapter 511


    I ruffled her hair yfully and praised her, "You''re quite smart. Just remember, next time don''t jump to


    conclusions or interrogate me, especially not about snooping. I''d never indulge in such a bad habit.


    Unless it was absolutely necessary, I wouldn''t dream of checking someone''s phone, including yours. I


    respect your privacy."


    "Alright, Mom, enough already. I admit I was wrong to doubt you." Monique copsed into my arms.


    I chuckled and patted her back, indulging in the moment before smiling and suggesting, "Okay then, go


    to bed."


    Her little face beamed with a confident smile, "You too, Mom. Don''t stay up toote."


    Her words nearly brought me to tears, warming my heart and reminding me just how much she had


    grown, now taking care to remind me to look after myself.


    My mind then wandered to my lost son, wishing he was here. How wonderful our lives would be if we


    were all together. But where could he be?


    The next day.


    I hadn''t expected that stepping out of my front door would lead me straight into Irving and Nettie.


    To say they were merely sightseeing on Oldtown Avenue would be an understatement. It felt like they


    were waiting for an idental encounter with me.


    The timing, the location, it was too much of a coincidence and frankly, quite contemptible.


    "Ms. Wilburn. What a surprise." Irving feigned shock as he gestured towards my front door.


    There I was, at my doorstep, so I reluctantly greeted them, "This is my home."


    Irving''s face lit up with feigned delight, "I''d heard rumors that your family were the esteemed


    ask for a tour?"


    His intention was clear, but I said calmly, "Since you have made it all the way here, why don''t youe


    in for a spot of tea?"


    His grin widened as he turned to Nettie and said, "Darling, say hello to Aaliyah. She was a dear friend


    of your mother''s back in the day."


    Then, turning back to me, he asked, "Ms. Wilburn, you don''t mind if she calls you Aaliyah, do you?"


    ncing at Nettie, I nodded in response, "Of course not."


    Nettie''s greeting was lukewarm at best, "Ms. Wilburn," she said, her tone t.


    Internally, I chuckled. Her attitude indeed was far from the warm one I had expected.


    But outwardly, I didn''t let it bother me. I didn''t particrly care for Nettie''s opinion, not after seeing how


    she treated Janice and hearing about her coldness toward Jta.


    With a gesture, I opened the heavy gate and weed them in.


    "Jan¡­" he stumbled over his words as if realizing he''d said too much, then looked at me with an


    awkward smile, "I apologize. I shouldn''t have mentioned it."


    "It''s alright, go on," I assured him, unaffected, "After all, getting divorced doesn''t necessarily make us


    enemies. You set the perfect example, tirelessly caring for your ex-wife and raising such an


    aplished daughter. Admirable indeed."


    I marveled at his audacity.


    Upon reaching the main living area, Galen was leisurely browsing on his tablet. Hearing our approach,


    he looked up and stood with a warm smile, "Esteemed guests." Co?tent §àf


    Irving hurried forward, feigning surprise, "Mr. Wilburn, forgive the intrusion. I never imagined that a


    casual stroll with my daughter would lead us to the doorstep of the Wilburn residence."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    I scoffed inwardly at his act, he who had been lurking outside early in the morning, now pretending it


    was all a chance encounter.


    Ignoring their pleasantries, I turned to Nettie, "Nettie, please feel free to sit anywhere. Or, if you''d like, I


    can give you a tour."


    To my surprise, she took me up on the offer, "Really? I''d like that."

 Chapter 512

    Chapter 512


    Her demeanor caught me off guard. Wasn''t she always ying it cool, seemingly aloof and just a tad


    haughty? Could it be she was actually interested?


    When she saw me hesitate, she pressed, "Is it inconvenient?"


    "No trouble at all." I quickly replied. I couldn''t dismiss a guest, after all. She was Jta''s daughter.


    Besides, she''de all the way to Silverdale City, so it was only right to indulge her a bit.


    I gave Irving a heads up, "Mr. Bradlee, why don''t you catch up with my dad for a bit? I''ll show Nettie


    around."


    Irving readily agreed, "That would be wonderful. Thank you, Allie."


    I winced at his informal use of my name. We weren''t that close, to begin with. But they were guests, so


    I just smiled and let it slide.


    I took Nettie around the yard, exining a little about each spot we visited.


    She seemed genuinely interested, inspecting everything with care, and even remarked sincerely, "Your


    family estate is truly beautiful."


    "ttered you think so," I said, though my wordscked sincerity.


    She shot me a look, oneden with meaning, perhaps noticing my half-heartedness. But surprisingly,


    she didn''t seem to mind and continued to be quite enthusiastic.


    Honestly, I found it hard to findmon ground with her. It wasn''t an age thing, and we just didn''t click.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    After a while, I couldn''t hold back, "I mean, you''ve lived abroad since you were young. This old-timey


    stuff shouldn''t interest you."


    She smiled, warming up considerably, no longer icy.


    "I only visited my grandma''s once. It was an old house and an old yard, and I was too young to


    remember it well. But that kind of memory sticks with me. That longing for the old, the rustic, even the


    smell. It''s not about where you live."


    "That''s rare," Imented.


    "When I was abroad, I always thought if I got the chance to see a yard like this again, to feel that


    atmosphere, that would be lovely," she said, circling a rock garden before gently touching an ancient-


    looking plum tree, her affection unmistakable.


    Her words made me take a serious look at her, reconsidering my impression of her as cold and


    detached.


    She pointed out a giant banana tree through a moon-shaped gate, a soft smile on her lips, "My


    grandma''s yard had a big one of these. I never thought I''d fulfill that dream at the Wilburn residence."


    Her tone carried a hint of mncholy.


    Before I could speak, she added quietly, "But as beautiful as it is, it''s not the same as my memories."


    It sounded like she was talking to herself.


    "Is your grandmother''s yard still there?" I asked casually.


    She came back to the moment, looking at me, "It''s long gone. I heard our old house was torn down for


    skyscrapers. It''s unrecognizable now."


    "That''s really a shame."


    "It doesn''t matter. It was someone else''s home, not really connected to me. That''s why I only visited


    once," she said, a note of bitterness in her voice.


    I instantly understood her sentiment.


    Jta had married Irving against the Makynzie family''s wishes, causing years of estrangement.


    Nettie''s im that she''d only visited her grandmother once made sense.


    After Jta''s ident, Nettie was sent abroad by Irving, all adding up.


    For a moment, I empathized deeply, reminded of Evan, still drifting out there, taken away from me as


    an infant.


    I didn''t dare to continue that train of thought, wondering if he would resent me one day.


    I took a deep breath and changed the subject, "Not nning to go back overseas?" Re§Ñd at


    Dramanov§Öls


    "Undecided," Nettie replied coolly, her demeanor reverting to its usual chill.


    She didn''t respond to what I''d said.


    Out of nowhere, I asked, "Have you visited your mother since she woke up?"

 Chapter 513

    Chapter 513


    She shot me a frosty nce before replying, "No, it''s good that she is awake."


    "She misses you." I blurted out, not caring whether she liked hearing it or not.


    She paused briefly, a twitch flickering at the corner of her mouth, but still said nothing.


    "Try to find some time to visit her. It could help with her recovery." I pushed a bit further.


    Since Irving had already referred to Jta as a good friend of mine, I felt it was my duty to nudge her.


    Whether she went or not was her business, but I had to say my piece.


    "Let''s head back. Thanks for your trouble," she said, keeping me at arm''s length.


    "Sure," I replied with a smile, gesturing for her to follow as I started walking back.


    We didn''t speak on the way back, and just before we reached the living room, she stopped abruptly.


    Without looking at me, she uttered, "Tell her to take care of herself. Missing me is pointless, and I can''t


    visit her."


    Hearing this, I couldn''t quite express my feelings at the moment. If Jta knew Nettie could say such


    a thing, she''d be heartbroken.


    I remained silent; there just wasn''t anything to say.


    As for her entrusted message, I was certainly not going to ry it.


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    To do so would be like handing Jta a knife. I couldn''t partake in such cruelty.


    Inwardly, I cursed she was an ungrateful wretch. Let her side with her good-for-nothing father. One day,


    I''d take over Elixir Pharma Limited, and we''d see where her hopesy then.


    She followed Irving merely because she was submissive to his financial clout.


    Back in the living room, it was obvious Irving and Galen were getting along splendidly, chatting with


    vigor.


    Seeing Nettie and me return, Irving called her over, "Mr. Wilburn, this is my daughter, Nettie. Like you, I


    cherish my daughter and love to have her by my side. She''s been abroad and just returned recently. I


    want to keep her close, get her involved in the business, and hope that one day she can stand on her


    own, just like Aaliyah."


    I just smiled slightly, not even ncing at Nettie. Where she came from didn''t matter. If she didn''t love


    her mother, she was nothing but a wed human being to me.


    Irving went on with his act, "So, Aaliyah, I''m counting on you to mentor Nettie. for Jta''s sake."


    I couldn¡¯t help but let out a chuckle, delivering a cheeky double entendre, "It seems you are intent on


    training her. nning to hand over the reins to her in the future? What a wise and good father. Nettie is


    lucky to have you, and with a capable and solid mother like Jta, I have no doubt she''ll surpass


    you."


    A muscle twitched in Irving''s face, and heughed heartily, "Aaliyah, since you think so highly of her,


    why not mentor her someday?"


    "Mr. Bradlee, you jest. With Nettie''s international experience, I''m hardly qualified to mentor her." I


    parried hisment effortlessly.


    "Don''t be modest now, and you''re a true force to be reckoned with in the business world. Even I am


    thoroughly impressed." Irving was a master of pleasantries.


    I observed Nettie discreetly. She seemed like an outsider, calm andposed amidst our banter.


    I thought to myself that Nettie was no simple character. She had depth, and nobody knew what


    thoughts were hiding behind that expression.


    When leaving, Irving shook Galen''s hand, promising to send over the details of Elixir Pharma Limited


    soon, wanting to make an impression. Galen agreed to respond as quickly as possible.


    After Irving had left, I asked my father, "What do you think?"


    "It''s hard to tell, and the man is slippery." He was spot on, and I agreed wholeheartedly.


    "All smoke and no substance, he doesn¡¯t discuss serious matters. Let him prance around a bit more." I


    said, resigned.


    "We don''t have time for these games. It''s time to step things up." Galen mused, ever so strategically.


    During an interview, Galen hinted that this new drug was a test of our new production lines and that


    more products were soon to follow. Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    Could it be that such a lucrative opportunity, such a significant project, would not be discussed?


    This move made VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals an overnight sensation, catapulting it to the top of the


    domestic pharmaceutical industry.


    As a result, the stakes for partnering with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals skyrocketed overnight.

 Chapter 514

    Chapter 514


    Irving was pacing like a cat on a hot tin roof, having just missed a golden opportunity to ink a deal.


    Only my father and I knew that we had no real intention of signing with him in the first ce.


    But poor Irving was beside himself, trapped in Silverdale City with Nettie, trying every trick in the book


    to get close to us.


    And then, out of the blue, Cami showed up in Silverdale City to pick up Fidelia and take her back to


    Goldenvale Town.


    I honestly didn''t see Cami''s visiting, and she didn''t even give me a heads-up. I got her call when


    she had already touched down at Silverdale City airport.


    Talk about being caught off guard. Just as I was about to head out to pick her up, she called again to


    say she''d hopped on the shuttle back to town.


    Hannah looked at me, exasperated, "What''s she ying at? Why so mysterious?"


    I was just as surprised, "Guess we''ll meet her at the town square."


    My mom hurried to arrange a meal with Brenda and the others, while I took Hannah and Carl to the


    square.


    Walking along, Hannah quizzed me, "Allie, did Monique ask Fidelia about that cat''s eye thing? What


    did Fidelia say?"


    I sighed, "Monique checked all of Fidelia''s contacts, no such profile picture to be found."


    Hannah stopped dead in her tracks, and pressed me, "What''s going on?"


    I shook my head, "Must''ve spooked them. After our backyard was discovered, they''d have to report it.


    It''s all connected to that cat''s eye."


    "No wonder there''s been no peep from the Wood Manor. Looks like you''re right, they''ve been rattled."


    Hannah took Carl from my arms, my stamina for carrying him was seriouslycking.


    As we walked, I continued, "Monique''s quite sharp, dropped the subject when she didn''t see anything,


    but she did ask Fidelia if she''sing next holiday."


    "What did Fidelia say?" Hannah looked over at me.


    "She''d have to ask her mom, of course. But Cami''s visit really was sudden," I admitted.


    Hannah agreed, "True. You know how overly cautious she is. To be honest, after a few encounters, I''m


    not too fond of her. She seems fake, not genuine."


    Iughed, "She probably didn''t want to trouble me and decided toe on her own, maybe thought I''d


    dissuade her if I knew, hence the no heads-up."


    "But doesn''t she realize that''s also a hassle?" Hannah bluntly contested my view.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    As we were talking, Monique, Probert, and the other kids came running out from down the street.


    Monique shouted from afar, "Mom, is Aunt Cami reallying?"


    I nodded with a smile, "Yep, any minute now."


    But Fidelia didn''t seem thrilled.


    I pulled her aside and asked gently, "Not happy to see your mom?"


    She leaned in and whispered, "I don''t want to go back."


    "Oh?" I looked at her, surprised by her discontent.


    Fidelia''s eyes welled up, and I quicklyforted her, "You can alwayse back for a visit."


    But she still muttered softly, "I don''t want to go back."


    She pouted but nodded.


    As the bus came to a stop, Cami emerged,den with bags, like she was fleeing a disaster.


    belongs to Dra§Þan§àv§Öls


    Monique was the first to rush over, her enthusiasm enough to ignite a desert, "Aunt Cami, wee


    to Silverdale City."


    I exchanged a knowing nce with Hannah, and we both chuckled. Hannah quickly went to relieve


    Cami of her burdens.


    I nudged Fidelia again, and she finally approached, embracing Cami, "Mom, why''d youe so


    early?"


    For some reason, I suddenly felt that today''s Cami was nothing like her usual homebody self.

 Chapter 515

    Chapter 515


    Cami was looking and feeling quite different today, and I couldn''t quite put my finger on what had


    changed. I guessed that she was just thrilled to be picking up Fidelia.


    There was an unmistakable aura about her, a far cry from the ostrich with her head in the sand that I''d


    known before.


    "Cami, I''m genuinely happy to see you," I said after she finished exchanging pleasantries with the


    kids and approached her.


    "Aaliyah, you''ve been such a gem. I didn''t want to trouble you with driving Fidelia back and forth, so I


    decided toe get her myself. Needed a little break, and thought I''d pop by to visit your parents."


    Cami''s smile was so down-to-earth.


    Her words were beyond reproach.


    "I''ve never been to Silverdale City, and after seeing all the photos and videos Fidelia sent me, I just


    couldn''t resist the urge. So, I took this chance to visit. I didn''t give you a heads-up, hope I¡¯m not


    intruding."


    She finished with an awkward grin, nervously swallowing.


    Hannah, hearing this, grabbed her things and left, clearly done with the conversation.


    I kept my smile bright, "Cami, please, you''re always wee here, though you''ve picked a bit of a


    tight time. School''s starting in just a few days, and I wish you could stay longer."


    After saying that, I gestured for her to follow, "Let''s head back, and my mom''s cooking knowing you''re


    "How could I let her go to all that trouble?" she replied, reaching out to pick up Carl.


    Carl shrugged off her hand, "No, I want Mommy to hold me."


    She paused, looking at me with a hint of embarrassment. I quickly exined, "Carl had a bit of a scare


    recently, and now he''s all clingy and doesn''t want anyone else."


    "What happened?" she asked, her face a picture of concern.


    "We can talk about itter because he understands everything," I whispered, not wanting to discuss the


    matter in front of Carl.


    Cami nodded. "OK."


    I got Carl down and took his hand, leading him gently because he was getting too heavy for me to


    carry.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    As we walked and talked, I showed Cami the sights of Oldtown Avenue.


    She looked around with envy, asking cautiously, "Is all of this yours?"


    I smiled lightly, "Not all of it, a lot of it ismunal."


    She sighed, "How did Jan just...?"


    She nced at me and didn''t finish her sentence.


    I didn''t respond, thinking to myself that even if I hadn''t divorced him, he wouldn''t have any stake in this


    ce.


    Once home, Cami eximed, "Aaliyah, I know this ce like the back of my hand. Fidelia has shown


    me photos, saying the house from the Wilburn family is grand. And it truly is, even more so than in the


    pictures."


    Her eyes sparkled with curiosity, a look of greed I had never seen in her before.


    Cami kept marveling, "Such grandeur, it must cost a pretty penny to buy a ce like this now, right?"


    She took Carl from me, "Come on, there''s lots of yummy food. I will show you."


    Carl''s drool started flowing at the mention of food. He pped his hands, "I want to eat."


    As we entered the living room, my mom hurried out of the kitchen.


    After the pleasantries, Cami was in the kitchen regardless of my mom''s protests. She had an excuse


    for everything, leaving my mom bemused and looking to me for answers. I just shrugged, letting her be.


    Updated at Dr?manov§Öls.c§àm


    My mom joined her in the kitchen, and soon it was bustling more than the living room.


    Dinner was a lively affair, with Galen even inviting the Damon family over since Fidelia had grown close


    to them during her stay.


    We atete into the night, the conversation flowing freely.


    But what I didn''t expect was the unpleasant incident that unfolded in the middle of the night.

 Chapter 516

    Chapter 516


    It must have been the rxed atmosphere after a few sses of wine that evening, but by the time I


    had Cami and Fidelia settled into their rooms, I was exhausted. I barely touched the pillow before I


    was out like a light.


    But then, in the dead of night, a frantic knocking at my door nearly gave me a heart attack. My heart


    was racing as I stumbled out of bed to see what was the matter.


    I swung the door open to find Cami, pale and panicked, standing before me.


    "Aaliyah, I''m so sorry to wake you, but I can''t find Fidelia anywhere." she stammered, her voice


    quivering, tears brimming in her eyes.


    "What do you mean?" I asked, confused, "Fidelia''s not in her room?"


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    She shook her head miserably, wiping her cheeks. "No, she went out and hasn''te back."


    I waspletely baffled, "Went out? At this hour?"


    "Where did she go?" I pressed.


    ncing at Carl, who was still blissfully asleep in my bed, I quickly stepped out, guiding Cami to the


    sitting area in the hallway, "Let''s sit down. Take your time and tell me exactly what happened," I said


    softly.


    Clutching the corner of her nightgown, she said, "We. were just lying in bed chatting, and she told me


    she wanted to stay here, to go to school." Her voice grew fainter as she spoke, revealing her


    vulnerability.


    "And then?" I urged her to continue.


    "I told her no, that it just wasn''t possible," Cami said, ncing up at me. I understood her implication.


    "Then she got angry, argued that this ce felt more like home, that she could actually focus on her


    studies here. She said she had friends here, unlike back home," Cami¡¯s tears fell freely now.


    "She''s not wrong. She mentioned the same thing to me earlier today when we were waiting for you to


    get out of the car. She said she didn''t want to leave, that she wanted to stay. But I didn''t want to make


    that call for you. Staying here to study is perfectly fine, but I was worried about you, especially


    considering your rtionship with Jerome..." I hesitated, not finishing the thought, but knowing Cami


    would get the gist.


    I continued, "She''s your world, and I couldn''t just leave her here while you''re all alone in Goldenvale


    Town. I wanted to make sure you were okay with it."


    "She ran off because of this. I tried to reason with her, but she wouldn''t listen. She just stormed out,


    asking why she couldn''t make her own decision for once. I said no, and she ran off." Cami was


    getting agitated.


    She grabbed my hand, "I checked Monique''s room, but she wasn''t there. I don''t know this ce well. I


    went downstairs but couldn''t find her."


    Just then, Hannah appeared, rubbing her eyes, "What''s going on?"


    "Fidelia might have run off," I informed her.


    Hannah''s eyes widened in shock, "Run off? When?"


    "Don''t ask questions now, let''s just find her. She shouldn''t have gone far, probably still in the yard


    somewhere. You go left, I''ll go right,¡± I instructed.


    "Okay," Hannah quickly set off in one direction.


    "I''m so sorry for the trouble." Cami apologized profusely, "She''s so stubborn, quiet but determined.


    Sometimes I just don''t know what to do with her." Co?tent of Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    It waste, and if she wasn''t in the yard, where could she be? I hadn''t expected her to be so


    headstrong.

 Chapter 517

    Chapter 517


    I exchanged a nce with Hannah, muttering under my breath, "Could she really have left the house?


    But where could she go?"


    Hannah looked at me and suggested, "Maybe we should check the backyard again. Do you think she


    might have gone to the gazebo?"


    "At this hour? By herself? That seems unlikely," I replied skeptically.


    "We''ve been hanging out in the gazebo these past few days. Maybe she got used to it?" Hannah


    spected.


    I nodded, conceding the point. Indeed, we had spent a lot of time there recently, sending a clear


    message to any potential trespassers that it was upied. She might have headed in that direction.


    I took Cami''s hand and we turned to head back towards the backyard, though a part of my mind


    wondered about Fidelia''s courage. It was pitch dark, and yet she had the guts to venture out alone.


    Monique would never have even entertained such an idea.


    Our back-and-forthmotion eventually roused Galen. He came out of his room, wrapped in a robe,


    and asked, "What''s going on?"


    Cami immediately flushed with embarrassment and apologized profusely to my father, "Mr. Wilburn,


    we think Fidelia has run off."


    Galen, puzzled, looked at me for an exnation. I gave him a brief rundown and reassured him, "You


    go back to bed. We''ll handle this. It¡¯s dark, and she couldn''t have gone far."


    I didn''t want Cami to feel more anxious with Galen around.


    He nodded, trying to ease Cami''s worry, "Don''t fret. She knows this ce like the back of her hand.


    She''ll be fine."


    "I''m so sorry for disturbing your rest," she said, bowing her head repeatedly in a humble attempt to


    smooth things over.


    Hannah, getting impatient, urged, "Enough apologies, and let''s hurry to the backyard."


    Galen waved us off, "Go on then and remember, don¡¯t scold her when you find her. Speak gently."


    I pulled Cami along, hastening our pace towards the backyard.


    The backyard was quite expansive, with a bamboo grove, a well, and a row of servant quarters that


    had long been converted into storage spaces, usually kept locked.


    Opposite the bamboo stood a sizable pond, covered in water lilies, with an octagonal pavilion adjoining


    the veranda for a better view of the lilies. In the dead of night, only the leaves rustled, creating


    unsettling shadows.


    Despite our calls, there was no response.


    Hannah, with swift feet, raced to the back gate. It was unlocked. She pushed it open and stepped out. I


    quickly followed, with Cami trailing behind, unfamiliar with the terrain.


    The gazebo''s door was also unlocked. We had been bringing the kids over daily to y untilte, and


    there had been no signs of intrusion over the past couple of days.


    Hannah pushed open the door and called out, "Fidelia."


    Silence met us.


    Then we went in, flicking on the lights. I scanned the area, the rocking chair under the wisteria was


    empty.


    I hurried into the small building with Cami right behind me. The silence inside was broken only by our


    footsteps on the wooden floor, echoing emptily.


    Hannah was the first to dash upstairs. As she stepped, a crisp snap sounded underfoot. She looked


    down, then bent to pick up a small object.


    "What is it?" I moved closer, peering curiously over her shoulder, with Cami also leaning in.


    Suddenly, Cami gasped as she replied, "That''s Fidelia''s hair clip."


    I looked at Cami, "Are you sure it''s Fidelia''s?"


    "Yes, she was wearing it when she went to bed." Cami''s lips quivered, her eyes filled with disbelief.


    A chill ran through me as I exchanged a nce with Hannah.


    "Don''t move," Hannah said firmly, "I''ll check upstairs." Content of Dra§Þ??ovels


    She bounded up to the third floor and returned momentster, shaking her head, "She''s not there."


    A wave of panic surged through me, but I tried to deny the obvious conclusion, "It means Fidelia was


    here recently."


    Hannah and I shared a look of rm. Both of us knew what this implied.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

 Chapter 518

    Chapter 518


    I exchanged a nce with Hannah, feeling utterly at a loss. Those people¡¯s motives were a mystery,


    and now this mess had erupted without warning. I was unsure of what to do next.


    Hannah, observing my restless pacing, got the hint¡ªI was weighing our options.


    Cami, on the other hand, was beside herself with worry. She suddenly burst into tears, muffling her


    sobs with her hands. "It''s all my fault. I shouldn''t havee. If I hadn''t, you would have just taken her


    home, and none of this would''ve happened. It''s all my fault..."


    She was clearly overwhelmed, while my mind was spinning on a totally different track.


    Finally, I broke the silence, "Let''s head back to the front yard."


    Cami looked at me, her face the picture of helplessness, herplexion ghostly pale. "Aaliyah, does


    this mean someone has taken Fidelia? Who could do this? How did they even get here? Should...


    should we call the cops? What do we do?"


    Her barrage of questions only added to my anxiety.


    It was obvious Cami was too panicked to think straight, following me with a trembling desperation, on


    the verge of a breakdown.


    I tried to offer somefort. "Cami, don''t panic. Fidelia will be okay. We''ll find her, I promise."


    Truth be told, my mind was racing despite my reassuring words.


    We had no clue who we were dealing with. Could involving the police put the kid in danger?


    From what I saw so far, this was an unexpected incident, perhaps Fidelia had stumbled upon some


    unexpected visitors in the manor and they''d taken her.


    Where could they have taken her?


    Then there was Oldtown Avenue, which was on the cusp of a big promotional push. The project team


    This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Catherine had been negotiating with was about to move in. This incident could spell disaster, sparking


    negative reactions and potentially stalling the project with rumors of security issues. But this was about


    Fidelia''s life, and she had vanished on my watch.


    "Hannah, call the police," I instructed firmly.


    Hannah hesitated, knowing full well the implications of my decision.


    "You guys can head to the parlor first; I''ll check the surveince and then we''ll decide," she said before


    swiftly disappearing into the night.


    Cami looked puzzled as Hannah vanished, asking, "Where''s Hannah going to check the cameras?"


    I replied offhandedly, "The surveince room''s not in this old house, it''s at the Wood Manor, just across


    the street."


    Cami nodded frantically, "Oh... can we go there?"


    "We''ll wait in the parlor. She''ll be back soon," I assured her as we made our way back to the front yard.


    Galen was still in the living room, awaiting our return. As we entered, he stepped forward and asked,


    "Did you find her?"


    I shook my head, unable to discuss the backyard situation with Cami there.


    I hadn''t had the chance to exin everything to my dad, only mentioning the issue in passing after


    returning from VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. My dad suggested, "Looks like we need to take security here


    more seriously."


    After I confirmed Fidelia had indeed been to the backyard, my dad immediately urged, "Call the cops!"


    Cami, already teetering on the edge, began to crumble, tears streaming down her face.


    Without further ado, I dialed 911 and ryed the details.


    Hannah returned soon after, showing us the surveince footage from that time. Fidelia had indeed run


    down from the upstairs, straight to the backyard, and even carefully closed the back door behind her.


    Co?tent of Dr§Ñm§Ñ?ovels.c§àm


    Unfortunately, the courtyard camera instation wasn''tplete, and the nearby alley cameras couldn''t


    capture a clear view of the area.


    Ronan''s intervention might have minimized the damage, but I was far from relieved. My whole heart


    was with Fidelia.

 Chapter 519

    Chapter 519


    When it was time for Monique and Probert toe down for breakfast, Monique was bouncing with


    energy, darting straight over to Cami.


    "Aunt Cami, where''s Fidelia? Why isn''t she down for breakfast yet?" she chirped, oblivious to the


    tense atmosphere.


    We all froze, especially Cami, who looked like she was on the verge of tears.


    Monique was a clever girl. One look at our faces and she knew something was off.


    "What''s wrong?" she demanded, her yful demeanor vanishing.


    No one spoke. She turned to me, "Mom, what''s going on? Tell me!"


    I gathered my thoughts before speaking gently, "Fidelia... she went outst night on her own and hasn''t


    "On her own? Why would she do that?" Monique persisted, sensing the gravity of the situation. "Is she


    upset about something?"


    At a loss for words, I nced at Cami, who remained silent. After all, to have such a thing happen


    less than 24 hours after her arrival was embarrassing.


    Monique caught our silence and guessed she had hit the nail on the head. After a long pause, she


    quietly took a seat at the dining table.


    Probert shot Monique a concerned look before joining his sister in eating breakfast. I noticed him


    whisper something to Monique, who promptly shot him a re, causing him to focus intently on his


    meal.


    My mom tried tofort Cami, "Cami, dear, eat something. Galen sent people out to look for her,


    and he''s got connections with the police. I''m sure we''ll hear something soon."


    Cami murmured guiltily, "It''s my fault. I was too harsh with herst night; that''s why she ran off.


    Fidelia''s always been headstrong, silent but determined."


    As we all offered words offort, the two kids finished their meal and slipped away unnoticed.


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After much coaxing, Cami managed a few bites, but her mood was still grim. We were at a loss,


    waiting for any news from the police.


    As time ticked by, our anxiety grew, especially for Cami. Her usually meek demeanor had returned,


    and she sat there red-eyed and restless, trying to maintainposure.


    A young officer arrived shortly after to show us the video. Hannah quickly set up herptop, plugged in


    the USB drive, and yed the video for Cami, who watched, fists clenched with anticipation.


    "That must be Fidelia," Cami whispered shakily. Co?tent of Dr?§Þ??ov§Öls.c§àm


    As the shadowy figure vanished into the darkness on the screen, we could only hope that it was indeed


    her, and that she would be found safe and sound.

 Chapter 520

    Chapter 520


    We had yed the footage over and over again. If you didn''t look closely, to be honest, you''d miss the


    figure. She darted so fast, a clear attempt to dodge the surveince cameras.


    It meant she knew about the cameras, but not that the power had been out that night. The cameras


    were off.


    Without that GPS snapshot, we''d be clueless, unaware of this whole scene.


    "It''s gotta be Fidelia!" Cami nodded emphatically. "I''d recognize the way she runs anywhere."


    "Are you sure, Cami?" I squinted at the screen, still uncertain. "But the figure looks like a kid!"


    Hannah snorted. "I can''t believe the nerve of that child. Alone in the dead of night, she just takes off!


    But hey, at least she''s alone."


    Cami shot her a questioning look. "What do you mean by that?"


    Only I got the subtext in Hannah''s quip.


    "She means it''s easier if she''s by herself," I exined to Cami. "Our theory about her being taken... it


    doesn''t hold up. This is good news!"


    Relief flooded through me. As long as she wasn''t snatched up by some creeps, we had hope.


    I turned to the young officer. "What''s our next move?"


    He signaled for me to wait, then took out his phone and reported back to the station¡ª"they''d confirmed


    it was the kid.¡±


    Cami''s expression darkened, and there was a flicker of something fierce in her eyes that made me


    shiver. That wasn''t a look I was used to seeing on her.


    After the call, the officer said to me, "Ms. Wilburn, we''ve got people on the search now!"


    Hannah pointed to the screen. "She went across the street... Why? Why''d she do that?"


    Then she turned to me. "Allie, we should get Monique toe with us. She knows these streets better


    than any of us."


    I immediately agreed with Hannah''s suggestion. "Let''s find Monique, get her on this. Maybe she can


    shed some light."


    Hannah stood up. "I''m on it."


    Ever since Monique and Probert came to town, they''d ditched their phones, sticking to the area


    between the Damon family''s ce and the Wood Manor, never venturing beyond Oldtown Avenue


    without checking in.


    But Hannah was gone for over half an hour, and when she came back, she asked, "Have Monique and


    the others returned?"


    I was taken aback. "Weren''t you looking for them? You didn''t find them?"


    Hannah looked stunned. "I... I couldn''t find them. They weren''t at the Damon''s today? I looked all


    around the neighborhood, they were not in the courtyard either. Thought they might havee back


    here!"


    I was speechless, puzzled. They didn''t go to the Damon''s? That was out of the ordinary. Why wouldn''t


    they be there?


    I pondered for a moment. "Not at the Wood Manor either?"


    "I checked there, nothing!" Hannah was getting frantic. "I''ll look again!"


    "Hold on," I called out. "Check the upstairs rooms in the back!"


    Hannah nodded and hurried off.


    Even Cami was at a loss. "Could they have not gone out at all? Where could they be?"


    It didn''t take long for Hannah to reappear, empty-handed. "No sign of them!"


    I quickly asked Helga, "Helga, when you came down with Carl this morning, did you see Monique or


    Probert?"


    Helga replied in haste, "No, they''d already dashed downstairs when I came with Carl."


    "That''s weird!" I muttered, then instructed Hannah, "Check the cameras, see if they caught them


    leaving."


    I cursed under my breath, annoyed. "Perfect timing for maintenance!"


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Just then, Brenda walked out from the back and asked my mom, "Ma''am, is it time for dinner?" New


    ch?pter av?ble o?


    A lightbulb went off in my head, and I quickly told everyone to wait just a little longer.


    The penny dropped for Hannah, and Cami''s eyes lit up too.


    My point was, they always showed up for meals on time unless they were stuck at the Damon''s.


    Well, today, I was keen to see if they''d return for lunch.

 Chapter 521

    Chapter 521


    Without a doubt, after waiting for more than ten minutes, we saw Monique and Probert sprint back to


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    the house as suspected.


    They didn¡¯t n to waltz straight into the living room. Instead, they made a beeline for the back of the


    house through the hallway.


    I paused under my breath, "Stop right there,e on in!"


    Monique hesitated, then lifted her foot as if to run again. This time I raised my voice, "Monique


    Dawson, I saide here!"


    At the sound of her name, she faltered, looking sheepish, and reluctantly shuffled in. Covering from


    head to toe in dirt, she looked like a ragamuffin.


    My eyes widened in shock, and I called out again, "Probert Dawson!"


    Probert tried to hide behind Monique, attempting to shrink his presence as much as possible.


    At the sight of them in the mud, I asked with clear annoyance, "Where have you been?"


    After scanning the living room, Monique noted everyone was present, especially her grandmother. So


    she suddenly seemed emboldened, "We were just... looking at some books?"


    I struggled to keep my anger in check. "And what sort of books leave you both covered in dirt?"


    She batted her eyshes innocently without a hint of hesitation, "Those old books we found out with


    Hannah the other day are all ssics. Grandpa said he wanted to read them too, so Probert and I were


    just collecting them! We couldn''t let Grandpa read dirty books, could we?"


    Monique''s exnation was confident and seemingly made sense, as if they had indeed been engaged


    in some noble task, even in the name of her grandpa.


    Temporarily at a loss for words, I still felt something was off.


    Hannah piped up, "Were you at the Wood Manor the whole time?"


    "Yep! We never left the Wood Manor!" Monique replied with conviction.


    I exchanged a nce with Hannah, who seemed equally perplexed.


    "Probert!" I called his name, fixing him with a scrutinizing gaze.


    He mumbled something inarticte before Monique yanked him out from behind her, "What''s wrong


    with you? Mom''s asking you a question. Tell her, were we at the Wood Manor or not?"


    Pushing him slightly from behind, which caused him to stumble forward, Probert said, "Yeah! We were


    at the Wood Manor!"


    "Tell the truth!" I pressed.


    "We were at the Wood Manor, Mom!" Probert insisted, but it was clear he wasn¡¯t as confident as


    Monique.


    "Why didn''t Hannah see you when she went looking?" I questioned, my eyes flitting between them.


    "We were... collecting books, so we didn''t see Aunt Hannah either!" Monique''s tone still carried an


    edge of defiance.


    I pondered for a moment, then softened, "Go clean up ande down for dinner."


    Then, they bolted like pardoned prisoners, scampering faster than mice.


    Not long after, they were back, cleaned up and sitting quietly at the dinner table, barely making a sound


    as they ate.


    The atmosphere at table was tense. Cami, whose child was missing, was eating without ease.


    My mother and I were also uneasy. A child had disappeared on our watch, leaving us helpless and


    guilty.


    Noticing Monique and Probert had barely touched their food, I asked, "Why aren''t you eating? Worked


    up an appetite after a morning''sbor, haven''t you?"


    Prompted by my words, they started eating more earnestly.


    I eyed them, "Aren''t you concerned about Fidelia''s disappearance?"


    Cami''s gaze sharpened with concern as she looked at them.


    Monique straightened up and swallowed, ncing at Cami, "Of course we''re worried! But we don''t


    know where she went either." Co?tent belo?gs to Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    Probert didn''t even look up and just kept shoveling food, trying to hide his anxiety.


    "What are you nning to do after this?" I probed further.

 Chapter 522

    Chapter 522


    Cami cast a doubtful gaze my way, and I could tell she was puzzled. We''d agreed that the kids would


    help guide the police, but I hadn''t said as much.


    I couldn''t exin at the moment, particrly since I wasn''t sure if the two little rascals were fibbing.


    Monique nodded, "Alright, we''ll be back soon!"


    After saying that, she nced at thevish spread on the dining table, seemingly lost in thought. But


    the next second, she sighed, grabbed Probert by the arm, and said to me, "We''re off then, Mom. Don''t


    worry, we''ll be right back!"


    As they left the dining room, I turned to Hannah, "Hannah, shadow them. See what they''re really up to."


    Hannah arched an eyebrow at me, as though sizing up my intentions. I added, "And don''t let them spot


    you!"


    "Got it!" Hannah replied and promptly headed out.


    Mom finally turned to me and asked, "Weren''t they supposed to stick with the cops to look for Fidelia?


    Why''d you let them go?"


    "I''ve got a hunch those two are holding back the full story. They might know where Fidelia is!" I


    confided in my mom.


    "What? Do you really think they know where Fidelia is?" Cami perked up, pressing me for answers,


    "How do you know?"


    "It''s just a guess," I quickly rified.


    "No wonder those two didn''t seem concerned about Fidelia''s whereabouts!" Cami mumbled to


    herself.


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I nced at Cami who had been paying attention to the kids'' demeanor.


    "Let''s wait and see what Hannah reports when she gets back," I reassured everyone, hoping my


    suspicions were incorrect.


    Truth be told, I wasn''t confident and just had an instinct the kids were less than forting. They


    couldn''t possibly be indifferent to Fidelia''s disappearance. Even Cami had noticed theirck of


    inquiry about Fidelia.


    It was out of character, especially for Monique. If something big went down, she''d be the first to spare


    no effort to get to the bottom of it. It didn''t make sense for her to act that nonchntly and im to have


    tidied up some books with Probert.


    That was unreasonable. Besides, Hannah was always on the ball. She mentioned checking out the


    Wood Manor and found nothing. If Hannah couldn''t find Fidelia, could the kids'' story hold any water?


    I was convinced there was more to the story.


    "Logically, the two of them would know Fidelia best. If Fidelia decided to hide on her own, they''d likely


    know where," Cami spected.


    "Exactly, they''ve been inseparable since day one. So just hang tight!" Mom took the opportunity to


    Before I could piece together more thoughts, Ronan''s call came through. He''d checked several leads


    without a trace. If Fidelia had been taken, there should''ve been some clue.


    It dawned on me I hadn''t shared thetest with Ronan. I briefed him on the situation, suggesting that


    Fidelia might have run off on her own, and we were searching.


    After hearing me out, Ronan still urged caution, "Don''t let your guard down, and stay safe!"


    Once I ended the call, Cami casually inquired, "Was that the police?"


    I responded instantly, "My dad''s pal!"


    Cami apologized, "I''m sorry for all the trouble. It''s my fault for not well taking care of Fidelia."


    Cami nodded in agreement, "Thank goodness we''re in Silverdale City. Otherwise, we''d be at a loss."


    "Kids can be headstrong. Even when we find her, go easy on her. She''s still a child and made friends


    here. The thought of leaving must be tough for Fidelia," Mom advised with patience, "She''s adorable.


    Just talk it out with her." New ch?pter av§Ñble o? Dr?§Þan§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "You folks are truly wonderful," Cami said sincerely.


    And just then, Helga let out an exmation that startled us all, "Oh my..."

 Chapter 523

    Chapter 523


    Helga''s yell drew the attention of everyone in the room.


    We all turned to look, only to find her staring, ck-jawed, at the entrance. Our gazes followed suit.


    There was Hannah, back from her brief exit, with Monique and Probert in tow, including Fidelia.


    We were all baffled when suddenly Cami let out an unsteady roar, "Fidelia!"


    Fidelia visibly flinched, stepping back.


    Her normally pristine face was smudged as if she''d been in a tussle with a chimney sweep, utterly


    disheveled. Her eyes were wide with panic as they met Cami''s furious re.


    I shot Cami a look, urging her to take a seat. Cami swallowed her next words and begrudgingly sat


    down.


    I got up and went over, taking Fidelia by the arm, and said in a gentle voice, "It''s okay, you''re back now.


    Next time, you should talk to your mom before you take off, okay? Running off alone in the middle of


    the night is dangerous! Do you have any idea how worried we were?"


    At my words, Fidelia threw her arms around me, bursting into tears, "Auntie Alliyah, I don''t wanna go


    back! I wanna stay here and go to school with Monique!"


    My mom hurried over, "Brenda, fetch a towel, quick!"


    Carl, pale with fright, clung to Helga, sneaking peeks at us while nervously chewing on his fingers.


    I patted Fidelia, whispering constions. Cami at the scene couldn''t help but start to cry herself.


    I led Fidelia to Cami, coaxing softly, "Go apologize to your mom. She''se a long way to find you,


    tired and worried sick all night!"


    Hearing this, Fidelia timidly approached Cami, "I''m sorry, Mom! I''m wrong!"


    The room breathed a collective sigh of relief. I quickly turned to Hannah, "Notify the police right away!


    The child has been found, safe and sound!"


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Hannah grinned, "Already done, and I''ve called off the search! I''ll need to go down to the stationter to


    give them the full story."


    I nodded, telling her to make sure she did.


    Then, turning to Monique and Probert, I noticed the defiant look on her face and knew there was more


    to the story.


    "Out with it! What happened?" I asked Hannah, who gestured to the two kids still standing outside,


    "Come in, you brave souls!"


    Monique nced at me with herrge eyes and nervously bit her lip, staying silent.


    Probert met my gaze more boldly, pulling at his sister''s arm, "Come on in."


    As they entered, Hannah exined, "They actually went to the Damon family''s ce, not to see


    Andrea, but to beg for some food!"


    I gasped, "Food for dinner?" But then with my thoughts raced back to Fidelia, I pieced it together.


    Hannah nodded, "Yes, to get food for Fidelia. They ran home earlier to bring back something to eat."


    I realized how difficult their meal must have been to swallow. True loyalty, indeed.


    Hannah nced at Monique and continued, "After getting food from the Damon family, they darted


    straight into Wood Manor."


    Fixing my gaze on Monique, I was sure she was the ringleader.


    I frowned, "You didn''t find them in Wood Manor?"


    She eyed Monique, "I have to admit, this kid''s sharp as a tack." Re§Ñd at Dramanov§Öls


    Monique snorted under her breath, "You idiot!"


    I shot her a stern look and she mmed up with apparent defiance.


    "Go on," I urged Hannah.

 Chapter 524

    Chapter 524


    I stared into Monique¡¯s eyes with mixed feelings. I didn¡¯t know if this situation was a blessing in


    disguise.


    "Only when I sneaked up to the attic did I grasp what was happening," Hannah said with a grin,


    ncing at Monique. "I just knew Fidelia had to be hiding up there. I didn''t follow directly but hid in the


    stairwell. Undoubtedly, I heard them talking inside. They were discussing the dinner the Damons were


    preparing for us!"


    Monique shot Hannah a disdainful look. "Spying on us, how sneaky!"


    Hannah retorted with the petnce of a child, "You''re one to talk about sneaky!"


    The rest of us quickly put two and two together. The reason they dashed home at noon was to sneak


    some food to Fidelia.


    But we were all present during dinner, with no one intending to leave. Since they couldn''t swipe any


    food for her, they ended up asking the Damons for some leftovers to take back to Wood Manor for


    Fidelia to eat.


    What a strategy! With more tricks up her sleeve than a street magician, they knew to hit up the Damons


    for a bite.


    "Whose bright idea was this?" I asked, looking at Monique.


    "We couldn''t just let our sister starve!" she shot back, standing her ground.


    I turned to Fidelia and asked, "So you''ve been hiding out in the attic of Wood Manor sincest night?"


    Fidelia nced at me and timidly nodded, with her eyes darting around the room.


    Internally, I couldn''t help but scoff. What a thriller this had turned out to be.


    We''d rmed the police. To be honest, finding that hairpin in the backyard nearly gave us all heart


    attacks.


    I was silently grateful that the mysterious intruders hadn''t shown up. Otherwise, all chills would be sent


    down my spine.


    I raced my thoughts, turning back to Fidelia, "You first went to the backyard?"


    She nodded again.


    Cami, frustration etched on her face, nudged Fidelia and said, "Would you get a move on and tell us


    what happened?"


    Fidelia shifted ufortably, and I interjected with augh, "Hold on a second!"


    I quickly grabbed the phone and told them, "I''m gonna call my dad first, let him know the kid''s back and


    he doesn''t need to worry."


    Cami nodded eagerly, "Call him now!"


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    My mom chimed in, "And after that, take her for a bath. Let her freshen up before we talk."


    Cami, eyeing Fidelia''s dirty clothes, led her away for a bath with mixed feelings.


    Only after all the necessary calls were made and everyone was assured of her safety did I feel a sense


    of relief. Fidelia, now bathed, had returned downstairs, ready to share her story.


    Standing there, Fidelia was fidgeting with her shirt. It was clear she couldn''t avoid spilling the beans


    any longer. "I told my mom I wanted to stay here with grandma and go to school with Monique... but...


    but she wouldn''t allow it..."


    Her voice trailed off as she sneakily nced at Cami, who offered us an awkward smile in response.


    "I... I got so mad and left the room, but everyone was asleep. I was afraid she''d find me, so I went to


    the backyard. After sitting there a while, I headed to Wood Manor to avoid your searching!"


    I understood what Fidelia feared. She was sharper than she let on.


    "Do you know who might be searching for you?" I asked softly.


    Cami looked puzzled by my question.


    Fidelia shook her head. "I don''t know!"


    Though her voice was soft, her ount was clear and organized.


    It suddenly struck me that despite checking the surveince footage numerous times, we never saw


    Fidelia entering Wood Manor.


    "So how did you get into Wood Manor? It''s under surveince. Why weren''t you caught on camera?" I


    asked.


    Fidelia nced at Monique again before replying, "I didn''t go through the front. Monique told me Wood


    Manor is heavily surveilled!"


    I inwardly sneered, "See? Always my clever daughter." Upd§Ñted at Dr§Ñ§Þan§àvels.c§à§Þ


    Fidelia hung her head, fiddling with her fingers. "I climbed in through a hole in the fence in the back!"


    "The back?" I was skeptical. "But the back gate is always locked."

 Chapter 525

    Chapter 525


    Monique rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with a mix of defiance and pride. "Well, of course. My


    grandpa always said, ''To run this ce, you''ve gotta know it like the back of your hand, down to thest


    mouse hole!''"


    "That''s a quote from your grandpa? Know every mouse hole and how to exploit it? You''re impressing


    me now," I said in a tone blending amusement and irritation so that Monique took it for apliment


    and let out a snort ofughter.


    But as herughter faded, she seemed to realize she might have let her guard down too much. She


    straightened up, trying to regain herposure.


    As the others shot her displeased nces, she added defensively, "Well, it''s true. I know anything


    about the Wood Manor you don''t know."


    Her words almost left me breathless with shock. Galen''s words were like the gospel to her! But she


    was certainly taking it to the extreme, wasn''t she? The little girl was too sharp-tongued for her own


    good.


    I was trying to keep my temper in check. After all, Cami was here, and I couldn''t embarrass Monique


    too much. Thus, I silently vowed to deal with the situation once Cami had left.


    It was clear to me that this was all Monique''s doing.


    As if reading my thoughts, Monique blurted out without considering the consequences, "Don''t be mad,


    Mom. It wasn''t my idea. I was just joking around when I discovered a hole behind the Wood Manor


    during my patrol of Oldtown Avenue. I thought, ''If one day we need to slip away unnoticed, we could


    just squeeze through here and follow the bamboo-lined path right into the back study. That little trail is


    so well-hidden, not even the security cameras can catch it.''"


    Her excitement was palpable. For a moment, I could see shades of the Dawson family in her. But this


    girl was leagues ahead of the Dawsons in cunning, with her imagination unhinged by my father''s


    influence.


    I wasn''t sure whether to be proud or concerned. What a bittersweet feeling indeed!


    "The day Hannah showed us the attic, I told them we''d call it our ''Hideaway Loft.'' If we ever wanted to


    disappear, no one would be able to find us!" She was unyielding in her determination and thought


    herself quite clever.


    My anger began to simmer. So, this was all her idea, her grand scheme. My daughter was too clever by


    half!


    This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    No wonder she had asked earlier with too much curiosity, "If Fidelia had run off on her own? Why?"


    She was inciting a rebellion against me!


    And that exined why they hadn''t eaten much for breakfast, but the whole te of pastries had


    vanished.


    They were sneaky little thieves! This was a direct challenge to my authority. How could I let it pass?


    There was a saying, "Teach your children in his presence."


    It seemed I could no longer hold back.


    "Monique, you''re too smart for your own good! So why are you here now? Don''t you think no one could


    find you? But you''ve been caught out," I crashed her confidence.


    Sure enough, she pouted and shot back, "It''s all because Hannah yed dirty!"


    "Hannah, take her upstairs to the bathroom and let her reflect on her actions!" Imanded sharply.


    Monique, still quite pleased with herself, started to protest as she heard mymand. "Why? Why


    should I be the one to reflect? I didn''t run off!..."


    "I''m not going to the bathroom! Why the bathroom?" Monique protested, standing her ground. "With all


    this space, why pick the bathroom?" New chapter av§Ñble o? Dr§Ñm§Ñnovels


    I was serious, but she still dared to fight back and argued, "It was Fidelia who ran off, she should be


    punished too! Otherwise, it''s not fair!"

 Chapter 526

    Chapter 526


    My scolding with unusual sharpness had Fidelia tremble with tears. She dropped to her knees with a


    thud. "Auntie Cami, it''s all my fault, please don''t punish Monique, punish me instead!"


    I caught Cami stunned and sneaking a nce at my dark face.


    I pointed at Fidelia, firm and unyielding, "Get up! Nothing grinds my gears more than kneeling!"


    Both Fidelia and Cami swallowed hard, mirroring each other''s nervousness.


    "Fidelia, a mistake is a mistake. Kneeling won''t erase it. You need to truly understand your error. Stand


    up!"


    Fidelia looked to Cami, who twitched her lips awkwardly, not daring to make a peep. I immediately


    understood this was Cami''s version of punishment.


    I nced at Hannah, who promptly helped Fidelia to her feet.


    "From now on, Fidelia, no more kneeling at the drop of a hat! Everyone deserves respect, including


    yourself. Don''t devalue yourself by acting subservient! You''re not in trouble for your free spirit, but for


    sneaking out in the dead of night, and not for using such tricks to get what you want!


    You can speak your mind, make your wishes known, and stand your ground if you must. But don''t


    resort to extreme measures against your family to get your way! You didn''t even give your mother a


    chance to exin before you bolted, especially not at night. That''s a double mistake!"


    Iid out her errors, each word hitting its mark.


    Cami kept stealing nces at me.


    I knew that I had challenged her approach to discipline today. Sure, her methods weren''t necessarily


    wrong, but they weren''t to my liking. I truly despised seeing others kneel without cause!


    I took a deep breath, still stern, "You too, go to the bathroom in your room and reflect! Once you''ve


    thought it through, apologize sincerely to your mother."


    Fidelia obediently nodded, "Yes!"


    "Hannah, take them upstairs," Imanded.


    Hannah, serious as ever, nodded and gestured for the girls to follow.


    Perhaps being relieved to see Fidelia facing consequences, Monique didn''t argue and dutifully headed


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    upstairs.


    My gaze then shifted to Probert, who stepped forward with sincerity, "Mom, I was wrong. I shouldn''t


    have kept secrets and helped my sister deceive you!


    I''m torn up about it. I know it is wrong to lie to you but I want Fidelia to stay. After all, calling the cops


    was a step too far and wasted their time. Mom, I''m sorry. I''ll go reflect. Please don''t be mad!"


    With that, he dashed off, as if fearing I''d call him back.


    His words, though, hit the spot. Darn it, the kid''s got spunk! No wonder he''s my favorite!


    Cami and I exchanged a look, nearly bursting intoughter.


    Then Carl, ever the clown, chimed in, "I''ve been bad too, off to reflect!"


    He toddled away, only for Helga to grab him back quickly, "Get back here, you! What¡¯s your wrong?


    Speak it out!"


    That broke the tension, andughter filled the room.


    Carl, enjoying the attention, giggled along. With his little eyes crinkling with mirth, he forgot the recent


    unease. Even his sleep had improved thesest few nights.


    Children heal fast, but the ache in my heart was a different story.


    But there was no time to dwell. I had no time to rest since we''d returned to Silverdale City.


    I snapped back, deflecting, "Nothing, just thinking about the kids!"


    "Aaliyah, do you think¡­" Cami hesitated. New ch§Ñpter av?ble on Dr§Ñman§àvels.c§à§Þ


    I turned to her, urging her on, "Cami, speak up!"


    She looked at me, probing, "Aaliyah, should I... should I consider what Fidelia wants and ept her


    ask..."


    I caught on to her drift.


    Disappointment and frustration flickered through her eyes, as clear as day.

 Chapter 527

    Chapter 527


    As soon as the words left my mouth, I could feel Cami''s quizzical gaze burning into me.


    I rushed to rify, "Cami, what I mean is simple. Right now, I can''t give in to her request, at least not


    this time!"


    Cami''s eyes were brimming with confusion as she asked, "Why not?"


    After a moment, I carefully replied. I knew all too well the kind of person Cami was and her emotional


    resilience. If I didn''t exin myself clearly, she might misconstrue my words as a sign of disrespect or


    rejection. On the other hand, much like the Dawson family''s way of thinking, she might perceive me as


    doling out charity from on high.


    Especially since I had just firmly denied her proposal.


    So, I adjusted my tone and earnestly said to Cami, "Fidelia has a bit of a stubborn streak. We need


    to work on that and make her see that her approach is wrong. Besides, we should help her understand


    how much you mean to her, so that she can cherish you!"


    I tried to appeal to both her emotions and her reason as we discussed the matter, hoping to convince


    her to see the sense in my words. Only then could we avoid future issues.


    Sometimes, I even doubted myself. Was I being too charitable as Catherine had suggested?


    Why did I even bother doing this ''good'' deed that wasn''t necessary? If I hadn''t been so quick to offer


    my kindness, I wouldn''t have ended up with these headaches.


    Now, more than ever, I felt that anything to do with the Dawsons, big or small, required careful


    consideration before taking action.


    Continuing with resolve, I said, "Fidelia''s staying for her studies is simple enough. Our door is always


    open for you, and Fidelia is wee anytime. But don''t give in to her this time."


    I emphasized ''this time,'' admitting to myself that I was perhaps making a bigger deal out of this than


    necessary.


    But as I saw Cami seem to take in my words, I decided to seize the moment and pressed on, "Later


    on, I''ll exin the whole thing to her. If she wants toe back, I''ll make the arrangements. She can


    attend the same school as Monique!"


    I thought my point was clear enough.


    I watched Cami until she nodded, though I wasn''t sure if she truly understood.


    But I quickly added, "If you want toe, after thinking twice, you''re wee too. It would save you


    from being apart!"


    This was me subtly applying pressure. I suspected that Cami wouldn''t easily leave her life in


    Goldenvale Town for Silverdale City.


    This time Cami nodded in earnest, "All right! Let her go back and adjust. I''ll weigh the options


    carefully. That sounds good!"


    I nodded, "Exactly! We don''t want her making a rash decision she''ll regretter."


    Iter repeated my thoughts to Fidelia alone, discussing the consequences and dangers of her running


    away.


    I also asked her what she truly wanted. She said she wanted to hide until Cami left Silverdale City.


    It made me both annoyed and amused. What a child!


    Yet, I felt she was carrying some sort of burden, not revealing the true reason she wanted to stay.


    I reiterated that she could share her deepest thoughts with me, but she shook her head, iming there


    was nothing more to be near Monique and Probert with a better studying environment.


    I couldn''t deny this, even my father''s lectures hooked me in my spare time.


    When I suggested taking Cami on a tour around Silverdale City, she refused. She''d rather explore


    Oldtown Avenue next time and was keen to revisit the Wood Manor. Cami was curious about how


    she managed to sneak in and where she had hidden.


    Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    So, I took them both to the Wood Manor.


    As soon as we entered, Cami couldn''t stop praising the ce, examining every nook and cranny with


    great interest.


    I had the impression she was quite taken with the Wood Manor!


    After another day, Cami took Fidelia back to Goldenvale Town.


    But I restrained myself. In matters concerning her and her mother, I had to tread carefully. Content of


    Dra§Þ??ovels


    They were, after all, on the fringes of the Dawson family, and not to be taken lightly.


    And that was the real reason behind my refusal.

 Chapter 528

    Chapter 528


    After Cami and Fidelia left, I took the time to have a serious talk with Monique.


    At first, she was stubborn as a mule, sticking out her little chin and arguing her case with the sass of a


    seasonedwyer.


    Well, I wasn¡¯t about to be outdone. I puffed myself up with all the authority I had, and we got down to a


    full-blown debate.


    Of course, the great mother-daughter debate ended with my victory. I had her nodding along with a


    newfound respect for me. She even bombarded me with questions, which I answered with all the


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    seriousness they deserved.


    The way she looked at me changed. It wasn¡¯t with that flighty arrogance anymore but with awe.


    I couldn¡¯t help but smirk to myself. ''Kid, I¡¯m your mom. Do you think you could out-argue me? Back in


    my day, I was the lead debater at school!''


    Later, I vented to my dad, ¡°Ugh, I¡¯m beat. Raising a kid is exhausting! It¡¯s like walking on eggshells, and


    you¡¯ve got to be on your A-game all the time. Dad, is it this tough for everyone?¡±


    Dad just smiled gently and took on his professorial tone. ¡°Darling, did you think motherhood was a walk


    in the park? Especially with your kids who are so ambitious, it''s going to take some brainpower.You¡¯ve


    got to grow with them and see things from their perspective. In addition to keeping up with their


    thoughts, you should also outpace their ideas!¡±


    His words weighed heavy on me.


    I thought to myself, ''Why does everything get ten times moreplicated when ites to me? This


    feels harder than the SATs! What kind of little geniuses did I bring into this world that they need such


    extraordinary effort?''


    But Dad was supportive, ¡°You handled Fidelia¡¯s situation very well!¡±


    I perked up, sat up straight, and grinned at Dad. ¡°Right? I had to be careful with that one. Cami is so


    sensitive, so I couldn¡¯t risk bruising her fragile ego!¡±


    ¡°Exactly. It¡¯s different from when we adopted Carl. He was so young. With his mother gone, although he


    might not have been rted to us, he¡¯s always been around you, Monique and Probert. That creates a


    strong bond.


    If you had given Carl to Jan, it would¡¯ve been like ruining the kid or raising a future adversary. Do


    you think Jan has what it takes to be a good father? Out of the three kids, not including the missing


    one, has he ever shown real interest in any of them?¡±


    Dad was spot on, and I agreed. That¡¯s why I couldn¡¯t bring myself to hand Carl over to Jan cold-


    heartedly.


    ¡°Would Jan even know how to raise him?¡± Dad scoffed before continuing, ¡°And with his mother


    gone, who could he possibly entrust such a young child to?¡±


    ¡°Well, he could just abandon Carl!¡± I couldn¡¯t help my cynical retort.


    ¡°And could you live with that?¡±


    That struck a chord. I remembered the image of Carl trying to get up from his sickbed, disregarding his


    pain, crying out and calling me, pleading, ''Mommy, don''t leave!''


    With a lump in my throat, my eyes misted up and I felt a wave of emotion. ¡°So, I had to take him in.


    Who else could I have turned to? It¡¯s like we¡¯re tied by fate. This kid and I have some unfinished


    business from a past life!¡±


    I cleaned my tears andughed it off.


    ¡°Even if Jan did raise him, the boy would grow up to be an enemy, given his genes. So, we need to


    put even more effort into raising him than our own children,¡± Dad concluded, as if sealing Carl''s fate.


    I shook my head, my voice heavy with emotion, ¡°Dad, what did I ever do to deserve this?¡±


    I was fully convinced by my dad¡¯s insight. It reminded me of something else.


    ¡°Dad, I also think Cami¡¯s parenting is off. That girl is quick to kneel. It must be some sort of


    punishment Cami uses. For another reason, I decided not to keep her now¡­¡±


    Dr?§Þan§àvels


    Dad looked at me, curious. ¡°What is it?¡±


    He pondered for a moment, then nodded. ¡°It seems this youngdy has her secrets!¡±

 Chapter 529

    Chapter 529


    "Seriously, I tried to get Monique to dig into the issue, but even she couldn¡¯t pry any information. That¡¯s


    why I didn¡¯t keep her around. I was afraid there were skeletons in the closet. I''m betting Fidelia knows


    something. But I didn¡¯t ask Cami, because it seems to be her off-limits, you know?" I said to my dad,


    weighing each word with caution.


    My dad nodded in hearty agreement, "You did the right thing. Cami isn¡¯t as straightforward as she


    seems!"


    "Dad, you feel it too? I''ve caught her lying a few times. That¡¯s why I started to get a vibe about her!


    How did you figure it out?" I asked with curiosity.


    The old man had a knack for reading people, that was for sure.


    He said coolly, "It¡¯s in her eyes! There¡¯s another pair of eyes lurking behind hers!"


    "Oh..." I mulled over my dad¡¯s words, sinking into deep thought.


    I had total faith in what my dad said and I definitely shared that feeling. Whenever I was around


    Cami, I often found myself instinctively wanting to rify what I meant, as if she wouldn¡¯t get it


    otherwise!


    Every time, it felt like she was looking at me with a different kind of gaze. And I couldn¡¯t quite put my


    finger on what that feeling was.


    But dad had hit the nail on the head.


    I thought it had something to do with her life with Jerome.


    On the kids¡¯ first day of school, I personally dropped the sisters off. They were over the moon to be at


    the same school.


    We¡¯d checked out the school beforehand. It was a reputable public elementary with strong faculty and


    solid facilities.


    Right across from the elementary was the middle school they¡¯d eventually move up to, one of the top in


    the state.


    They came home from their first day all excited, practically skipping with joy, and they walked home by


    themselves.


    That gave them a real sense of aplishment. Back in Goldenvale Town, that would¡¯ve been a no-


    go.


    I was confident because along Oldtown Avenue, there were other kids from the neighborhood who


    attended the same school. The Damon family next door, notably, had three of their children enrolled


    there.


    They walked together and looked out for each other. It was safer that way!


    Though I didn''t pick them up, I knew Hannah had covertly scoped out their dismissal routine.


    Hannah was always on top of things.


    At dinner, they were buzzing with excitement, chattering about the day¡¯s fun. My favorite part was


    hearing about their self-introductions in ss.


    Each of them gave me a lively reenactment, and their spirited faces overwhelmed me with a total


    delight to watch.


    Pride, I was in sheer pride!


    After observing for a few days, there was no need for us to chaperone them. They went to school in


    high spirits each morning and came back in a group each evening without a single straggler!


    Monique was like the queen bee of Oldtown Avenue, a natural-born leader.


    During this time, we also got the backyard fitted with cameras, eliminating any potential dangers and


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    putting my mind at ease.


    For a week into school, Jan hadn¡¯t made a single call to ask why the kids weren¡¯t back in


    Goldenvale Town or to check on Carl¡¯s injury.


    It was the best performance ever of an ex-husband!


    But in a way, it was a relief. No contact was the best. I guessed he must be in hot water by now, with


    creditors not known for their kindness.


    I was enjoying some yful time at home with Carl when I received a call from an unknown number. I


    thought about it and decided not to answer.


    I wanted to test the waters. If it was important, they¡¯d call back.


    "Nettie?" I muttered, then remembered these two people still holed up in Silverdale City.


    I was keen to get a read on them. Content of Dr§Ñm??ovels.c§àm


    "Let¡¯s meet at Aroma Embrace Coffee, at 2 PM. I¡¯ll be waiting," Nettie said, her voice polite.


    "Alright."


    I hung up, wondering if Irving was changing his tactics by having Nettie reach out to me.


    I nced at the clock and called out for Hannah, who was over at Wood Manor.


    As I waited for her, I pondered for a moment before dialing Janice¡¯s number on my phone.

 Chapter 530

    Chapter 530


    The phone barely had time to ring before Janice picked up on the other end, her voice bubbling with


    excitement, "Aaliyah, you''re back?"


    I let out a gentle chuckle, "Back? I''m still kicking around Silverdale City."


    Janice''s tone instantly dripped with disappointment, "Well, I thought you''d made your way home!"


    "Nope, just calling to check in. How''s Jta holding up?" I asked her.


    Janice, deflecting my question, shot back, "What''s up?"


    I sighed, "I ran into Nettie here in Silverdale. She''s with Irving, talking big business with VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals. I''m looking to catch up on the gossip of the Bradlee family about Nettie."


    At that, Janice snorted with disdain, "Nettie? The Bradlee''s precious little princess? That family is like a


    picture-perfect postcard with all smiles and harmony."


    A weight settled in my chest, a stubborn hope flickering, "She hasn''t visited her mom?" The minute the


    words left my mouth, I regretted them.


    Just days ago, I''d asked Nettie the same thing. The message she had me pass to Jta spoke


    volumes that she hadn''t been anywhere near her.


    "She regards Olivia as her mother sees her every day. How could she care about Jta?" Janice


    Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    snapped, "Ingrates. I sleep better not thinking about it."


    "But Jta, she''s not...?" I ventured, worried that Jta might be taking it all to heart.


    "She''s more open-minded than most, always telling me to chill out. As long as she''s happy, that''s all


    that matters," Janice said, frustration coloring her voice. "But behind closed doors? Well, that''s her


    business."


    "I noticed Irving is keeping her close. Is he grooming her for something?" I prodded.


    Janice let out a sardonicugh, "Grooming her? Hardly. That''s all her own wishful thinking. You don''t


    know Irving like I do. The man''s got trust issues a mile wide and a streak of cunning to match. He only


    trusts himself."


    "But he''s got her by his side constantly," I pressed, confused.


    "That''s just for show! After all, Nettie is a woman, while Irving prefers sons to daughters. If my elder


    sister didn¡¯t give born to Nettie, she could set her feet on the family longer." At the mention of this thing,


    Janice was seethed with anger.


    If Olivia didn¡¯t have a son for Irving, she would not be married to Irving who only loves himself. Olivia


    totally depended on his son to have her current status.


    Nettie''s just a pawn in his game to cover the truth for him. She''s his perfect little prop, parading behind


    him, ready to be manipted like a marite. What she does is all to craft his image. As for her dear


    old dad? She knows the score better than anyone."


    Piecing together their behavior, I had to admit Janice''s words rang true.


    Janice continued, with her anger unabated, "Even if Irving was too old to y the game, he''d pass the


    torch to his son, not Nettie. Unless his boy dropped dead, he wouldn''t give her the time of day."


    Her words cast a somber mood over me, but deep down, I knew she was right.


    "Does Nettie even want to go back overseas?" I asked, digging for more.


    "Who knows? She''s cut off her own mother. We''re thest to understand her whims," Janice retorted,


    her voice thick with exasperation.


    "Right. Did Logan fill you in on what he''s dug uptely?" I switched topics, hoping for a lighter note.


    After Logan had shared the dirt on Irving, I''d left for Silverdale City without a chance to catch up with


    Janice.


    At the mention of Logan, Janice perked up, "New information from Logan? He didn''t say a word.


    What''s up?"


    Silence settled on Janice''s end before she finally asked, "Something''s wrong, isn''t it?" Co?tent belo?gs


    to Dra§Þ?n§àv§Öls.c§àm


    "Yeah. Get the details from Logan. He mentioned wanting to talk to you," I ryed his message.


    "OK," Janice agreed, without further prying, and hung up.

 Chapter 531

    Chapter 531


    As I set down my phone, Hannah cocked her head and asked, "Allie, you heading out?"


    I nced at her and replied, "Yep, Nettie''s asked to meet up!"


    Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Just the two of you?" Hannah prodded.


    "Mmm, but it''s not set in stone. She didn''t say her dad wanted to meet, just that she did!"


    Hannah scoffed, "As if she can call the shots. What''s the point of meeting with you?"


    I paused for a moment before responding, "Since when did you be so pragmatic?"


    "It''s not about being pragmatic," Hannah retorted. "Irving''s a shrewd one, and I doubt Nettie has him


    figured out. What difference can she make? It''ll be a waste of time. She can''t make decisions anyway!"


    Hannah had quite a bias against Nettie because of theplications Janice faced with her premature


    birth.


    "Maybe so, but she called me twice. Must be something important she wants to discuss," I said calmly.


    "No harm in hearing her out. If I''m just loafing around at home, might as well take a stroll and see


    what''s on her mind."


    "Curiosity killed the cat!" Hannahughed recklessly. "Alright then, off you go! Good thing Carl''s


    napping, or you wouldn''t dream of leaving once he wakes up."


    "Good point. Let''s get going." I chuckled, grabbed my bag, and gave a quick word to Mom before


    scurrying out the door with Hannah.


    Lately, Carl had been clinging to me constantly. I couldn''t even step away for a moment without him


    seeking me out. That''s mother-son love for me.


    Helga was oblivious to my situation with Carl, always nagging that the little lord grew fussier by the day,


    always wanting me in sight.


    Truth be told, it didn''t sit well with me. But I hadn''t spilled the beans about the real story, not even to


    Catherine. I''d wait until I found that missing piece of myself.


    Once Hannah and I left the house, I checked the time and suggested, "Let''s call the driver to pick us up


    at the street corner and we can walk there."


    Hannah was on the phone with the driver in a sh, asking him to meet us.


    We strolled along, taking in the sights of the bustling shops. The street had perked up recently, with


    storefronts looking more inviting and foot traffic on the rise.


    They sold an assortment of unique snacks, trendy food in restaurants, boutique items of Silverdale City,


    and distinctive tourist souvenirs, drawing crowds of visitors.


    Especially these past few days, Catherine''s film crew had set their shooting dates, and with big-name


    stars rumored to join. The promotion was in full swing.


    This buzz created a domino effect, with Oldtown Avenue undergoing repairs and decorations, and


    shops opening left and right. The street was abuzz with the signs of new businesses.


    Catherine had called me just yesterday, saying she''d be back in town soon and to wait for her in


    Silverdale City.


    I asked about her injury, and she yfully used me of not caring.


    Annoyed, I retorted, "Oh please, I was just focusing on looking for my lost child recently!"


    She thought the lost child I referred to was Carl.


    If she knew the truth that Carl wasn''t my son but Jan and Zora''s, she''d tear Jan apart.


    I idly perused the shop disys, lost in my private turmoil. It was a bittersweet feeling.


    Just as I walked past a snack bar, a man stepped out, a toothpick dangling from his mouth. He nced


    back in the opposite direction without a care for his surroundings, nearly bumping into me. Read at


    The street was crowded, and as he wove through the people, heading against the flow, I felt a sudden


    tightness in my chest.


    In the next second, I grabbed Hannah''s arm and whispered, pointing at the man''s back, "Hannah,


    follow him. See where he''s going."

 Chapter 532

    Chapter 532


    | leaned over and gave her a nudge, "And then, swing by Aroma Embrace Coffee to catch up with me!"


    Hannah nced over her shoulder at the retreating figure and said with a hint of concern, "Just be careful out there, okay?"


    With that, she hurried off to follow the silhouette.


    | checked my watch, realizing there was no time to waste, and made a beeline to the corner where my ride was already waiting.


    Without hesitation, | hopped in and we sped off toward Aroma Embrace Coffee.


    We were a tad early, but Nettie was already there, poised and waiting. As | approached, she stood, her demeanor gracious, and


    offered a smile and a nod, "Ms. Wilburn!"


    Honestly, it was the first time I''d seen her crack a smile, which caught me off-guard.


    But | kept my cool, returning the gesture with a slight grin, "Apologies for the wait!"


    Once | took my seat, she sat back down, "Not at all, | just got here myself. What can | get you, Ms. Wilburn?"


    | pondered for a moment, "A cup of Blue Mountain coffee would be okay!"


    She signaled for the waiter and ordered my Blue Mountain, but her expression was tough to read.


    | decided to cut to the chase, "So, Ms. Bradlee, what''s this all about?"


    She seemed taken aback by my directness, surprised that I''d zeroed in on the matter at hand without any preamble.


    | just wanted to get straight to the point and spare myself from beating around the bush.


    Whatever her agenda was, it was likely above her pay grade, just as Hannah had suggested. She might not even be clued into


    the core details!


    After a brief silence, she looked up, "I just wanted to know if there''s any chance for a coboration with Elixir Pharma Limited.


    Are they in the running for a partnership with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?"


    Her question was unexpected. What kind of a question was that? It seemed the girl was in over her head.


    This wasn''t the dance of negotiation. She seemed to y a different game with me.


    Noting my silent but intent scrutiny, she grew nervous, "Oh... maybe I''m being presumptuous! It''s just a personal query, not


    representing Irving."


    She was backpedaling.


    | shot back without missing a beat, "And does your father know you''re asking me this?"


    Her response was decisive, "No, he doesn''t."


    ¡°And does he know you''re meeting with me?" | probed further.


    "No, he''s unexpectedly gone back to Goldenvale Town. That''s why | took the chance toe and speak with you."


    Something clicked in my mind. What did she mean?


    "What''s the point of asking for yourself? Hoping for a chance or against the coboration?¡± My tone was edgy.


    She paused a long while, only speaking after my coffee arrived.


    | stirred my coffee gently, taking a measured sip, patient and unpressing for an answer.


    Finally, she spoke softly, "For private and public sake, I''d rather not. Because it involves you."


    Her response caught me off guard. Nettie was candid.


    | calmly set down my cup, my voice even, but my words sharp, "But your say doesn''t count."


    She looked embarrassed.


    "The decision rests with your father, and how determined he is. Given Elixir Pharma Limited''s current scale and capabilities, they


    don''t really stand a chance," | said, deliberately knocking the wind out of her sails. "You''re right. I''m not optimistic about Elixir


    Pharma Limited either."


    Her smile was enigmatic with a hint of embarrassment.


    "But it''s not because of you but your father, Irving. Yet business is business. Personal preferences don''t sway professional


    decisions."


    "Do you have reservations about my dad because of my mom?" Nettie cut to the chase.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Mostly, yes." There was no point in hiding the truth.


    ¡°As for personal conduct, there''s noparison between Irving and Jta. | had great respect for Jta.¡±


    "Then don''t choose Elixir Pharma Limited," she seemed irked by my frankness.


    "If he can bring enough investment


    and a sustainable sales cha eh


    have no asoptoretiser ra


    HanaWenen after all. If you''re


    against it, you should be convincing


    your father, not me." Please read the


    original content at .


    "As | said, there are things beyond my


    control, but | can still vats myo


    Brahe clean, TRIS BIS Gtas


    ething with you," she stated


    firmly. Please read the original


    content at .


    There was a certain fierceness in her tone, a sense of urgency.


    | looked at her, unsure of what she was driving at.


    "Why does your dad make you here?" | intentionally provoked her.


    ¡°Where | am doesn¡¯t matter." Her response was mixed with some grievances.


    Suddenly, | wanted to sound her out and asked, "What about staying abroad? Where do you prefer to live? At Home or abroad?"


    Gazing at me with her fixed eyes, Nettie seemed to worm her way into my mind to figure out my feelings.


    She hade to Silverdale City to


    discuss a deal yet her ghe was) in |


    9) Vat urging He AG inst it. Wasn''t


    ppieciny raid of Irving finding out?


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Her expression was unreadable as she replied bluntly, "Home is nowhere for me. | don''t have the luxury of preference."


    Her words lingered, revealing more than she intended.

 Chapter 533

    Chapter 533


    ¡°Are you not afraid that Irving will find out about our rendezvous today?" | asked.


    Upon hearing it, her face instantly went ashen.


    At that moment, | was certain she didn''t want Irving to know she had met with me in secret.


    ¡°Of course, | won''t stir the pot, but that doesn''t mean there won''t be ripples," | said, pulling the conversation back and dropping a


    hint.


    She looked at me for a long moment, then a helpless smile crept across her face. She averted her gaze and echoed thest


    words | had uttered, "No ripples."


    Suddenly, she turned to me with a serious expression. "Ms. Wilburn, do you think everything can not leave no ripples?"


    Her seriousness took me aback, with her tone almost seeking guidance. For a moment, | didn¡¯t know how to respond.


    We sat in silence until Nettie regained herposure and spoke indifferently, "Ms. Wilburn, Elixir Pharma Limited is not as


    straightforward as you might think, and they''re not about to give up on this opportunity. Irving is set on winning this project."


    | remained silent, listening patiently as she continued.


    "Ms. Wilburn, if you just pay attention to the money, well... Irving has deep pockets that might exceed your expectations. But with


    great fundse great ambitions," she said, her eyes intense, as if to warn me of Irving''s ambition.


    "Your dad has always been ambitious. How else could he have gone from nothing to the helm of Irving?" | hinted back,


    suggesting her father''s rise wasn''t entirely noble.


    She didn''t seem annoyed by myment, instead offering a mysterious smile.


    "Ms. Wilburn, you might want to stop prying into others¡¯ business and focus on wrapping up your own. The project at VitalAxis


    Pharmaceuticals is a juicy morsel that''s attracting hungry wolves."Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Her words carried a sense of schadenfreude.


    She wasn''t wrong, though. | might have underestimated her. What exactly was she trying to tell me?


    | asked bluntly, "Are you hinting that Irving is one of those hungry wolves?"


    "You can take it however you like," Nettie replied nomittally, sipping her coffee.


    "But it''s not you who calls the shots."


    "True, | don''t have a say, but that doesn''t necessarily mean Irving does either. | wanted to meet with you to say that | hope there


    won''t be any cooperation between Irving and VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. As for leaving no ripples... let''s just see how it goes."


    After saying her piece, Nettie stood up. "Ms. Wilburn, I''ve said what | needed to. | won''t keep you any longer. | doubt my


    company is pleasant for you, so I''ll take my leave.¡±


    "Sure, okay," | responded neutrally, nodding.


    Then Nettie left without hesitation.


    | wasn''t in a rush, waiting for Hannah and pondering Nettie''s words. She was clearly hinting at something.


    ¡®Irving''s finances aren''t a problem, they''re determined to partner with Vital[Axis Pharmaceuticals, but Irving might not have the


    final word."


    The subtext was thick.


    | was still thinking when Hannah briskly walked in. She seemed surprised to see me alone and looked around before asking,


    "Where''s Nettie?¡±


    "She''s gone," | said coolly.


    "Gone?" Hannah was puzzled. "Just like that? What was the meaning of this? What did she tell you?"


    "There was a lot to unpack," | said


    indifferently, then turned to Ktaanah|


    jet aserires faGRY Forget about her


    f en What about the person you


    were following?" Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah sat down and ordered lemon


    water before responding, "We can''t


    confirm it''s the same ecsonfromn |


    t other night! bathe went to a


    n nSorhood beyond Oldtown


    Avenue. I''m betting he lives there. I''m


    still trying to figure out how many of


    them there are. I''ll try to get a clearer


    picture tonight." Please read the


    original content at .


    "It''s probably them. | have a keen


    sense of smell, and | recognize the


    vani scent on hi Andthe


    Himself is''simr to the


    shadow that fled the other night.


    They seemed to have found


    themselves a hideout." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    | mused, "No wonder they haven''t returned to that ce."


    "So the fact that they''ve stayed around speaks volumes," Hannah said, looking at me. "Should | get Quincy on their tail?"


    "First, let''s nail down how many of them there are."

 Chapter 534

    Chapter 534


    We lingered for a while longer before standing up to leave the Aroma Embrace Coffee. Turning to Hannah, | suggested, "It''s still


    early. How about we swing by VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals?"


    Hannah started the car. Just as we were about to roll out, my gaze was suddenly snatched away by a figure crossing the street


    at the intersection ahead.


    "Stop!" | cried out to Hannah.


    With a sharp brake, she turned to look at me.


    Pointing at the figure at the street corner, | drew Hannah''s attention. With a gasp, she eximed, "Holy smokes... Jesper


    Dawson?"


    My eyes hadn''t deceived me. It was indeed Jesper.


    My eyes were glued to Jesper, who ambled down the sidewalk with an air of distraction.


    "Follow him slowly," | instructed Hannah, "Let''s see where he''s headed."


    Hannah obeyed, easing the car forward in Jesper''s direction. But even at our snail''s pace, we were catching up too quickly.


    Moreover, Jesper seemed to wander aimlessly, as if waiting for time to pass or perhaps someone to arrive.


    As | was about to tell Hannah to park, | noticed Jesper pick up a call and then hail a cab, quickly slipping inside.


    My hunch was right. Hannah hit the gas and we tailed the taxi.


    The cab zipped through the streets, and we kept our distance, careful not to get too close.


    Asense of foreboding gnawed at me. Jesper wouldn''te to Silverdale City without a reason.


    The Dawson family was in shambles, with Jerome stuck in Goldenvale Town. Jan might have been released on bail, but only


    Jesper was free to roam. Could he havee to Silverdale for the Wilburn family?


    ¡°Allie, they''ve stopped!" Hannah''s voice pulled me from my thoughts.


    Looking ahead, | saw Jesper''s cab pull up in front of a bar, long before its usual opening hours. After a moment of hesitation, he


    stepped out, scanned the surroundings, and walked into the bar.


    It was an odd time to visit a bar, and we would be too conspicuous if we followed him in, especially since Jesper knew us too


    well.


    But | was desperate to know why he was here in Silverdale City.


    | was getting antsy andined to Hannah, "How can we go there? We cannot miss this opportunity. His presence in


    Silverdale City must bring no goods!"


    Hannah, seemingly reading my mind, dialed a number on her phone, whispered our location, and said, "Send someone over. |


    need to get into a bar."Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    | stared at her in disbelief, not used to such tactics.


    Within five minutes, a trendy-looking guy tapped on our car window. Hannah calmly told me to wait and decided to get into the


    bar.


    "Take care," | said with concern.


    Hannah replied to me with an "OK" gesture to assure me.


    With a swift motion, she got out of


    the car and said something t


    guy. Putti a.dqwenhef ponytail and


    toosiiny ita bit, Hannah let strands


    fall over half her face, transforming


    her appearance. Please read the


    original content at .


    They walked toward the bar together, arm in arm, disappearing inside.


    | was dumbstruck by Hannah''s transformation. She seemed to be another person.


    As they entered, my heart raced, eager to know who Jesper was meeting.


    My eyes stayed fixed on the bar''s entrance, with a bundle of nerves imagining the scenario inside.


    Unexpectedly, it wasn''t Hannah who


    emerged, but to er anidsanaiet


    bey pyanwaitt ta ooed arms, deep


    in conversation. Please read the


    original content at .


    The tattooed man nodded continuously as they headed in my direction.


    Instinctively, | ducked down. But as


    they passed by atked cat, 0"!


    esqaairevtndina uth with Jesper.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    It was someone | knew all too well, Mason Wood, the grandson of the Wood family.

 Chapter 535

    Chapter 535


    It had been years since |stid eyes on Mason. He had been stronger in his body, but his familiar round face was as


    unmistakable as ever.


    What truly stunned me, though, was seeing him with Jesper. How on earth did those two be an item?


    And wasn''t Mason supposed to be behind bars after that fiasco? Yet there he was, bold as brass, strolling around in the open.


    By the time | snapped out of my shock, they were already a good distance away. | nced toward the pub''s entrance, but there


    was still no sign of Hannah.


    | was getting antsy and took another look, watching as the two men were about to disappear from my view. Without hesitation, |


    unbuckled my seatbelt, slid into the driver''s seat, and fired up the engine to tail them.


    | drove slowly, maintaining a discreet distance. At the crossroads, Mason and Jesper exchanged a few words before heading off


    in separate directions, leaving me at a loss for whom to follow.


    Indecision gripped me for a moment, but then | saw Jesper cross the street and enter a chain hotel. | noted the location, then


    veered after Mason.


    However, by the time my car turned the corner, Mason had vanished from sight.


    | drove a bit further, reasoning that he couldn''t have gone too far. Looking to the left, | spotted an alleyway about a hundred


    meters down from the intersection. | deduced that Mason must have ducked in there.


    Determined, | parked my car along the curb and zipped across the street to the opposite side, stepping into the alley without a


    second thought.


    The alley wasn''t long. As | advanced, | discovered it led to the backstreet of a farmer''s market, reeking of fish and rotting


    vegetables. What a nauseatingbination!


    The ground was sticky and filthy, nked by unassuming food stalls that added to the chaos. In the market''s main hall, people


    bustled about, moving goods to and fro.


    There was no sign of Mason.


    In a panic, | pushed forward a few steps into the market, scanning the crowd for his distinctive figure to no avail.


    Just as | was about to turn back, a man carting a crate of ice bumped into me. My heel twisted, and | stumbled toward a


    fishmonger''s stall.


    Fortunately, the vendor quickly grabbed my arm, steadying me. | was about to thank her when | noticed my arm was covered in


    fish guts and scales. The revulsion hit me instantly, and | started to retch.


    The vendor eyed me with disdain and snarked, "Oh, did we offend your delicate sensibilities?"


    | waved my hand apologetically, struggling to hold back my nausea, unable to speak.


    She sized me up and said, "Dressed all fancy, what brings you to these parts? Are you some kind of angel, too good for the likes


    of us? Then you shouldn''t be here!"


    Not wanting to argue, | managed to croak out with a forced smile, "I''m sorry! | didn''t mean to... I''m pregnant! And | owe you one,


    thank you!"


    Her expression softened at that. "Pregnant? What are you doing here? It''s dangerous with everyone bustling about. What if you


    were hurt?¡±


    She then offered her hose and said, "Come wash off, quick! | only grabbed you without thinking.¡±


    | rinsed off my arm, the grime washing away, but the stench of fish lingered.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    | asked her for help, "I might have taken a wrong turn. Can you get out this way? | was looking for someone, but now... | feel


    trapped."


    The vendor''s mood lightened considerably.


    ¡°Ah, you should have said so!" she eximed, leading me out of the hall.


    Pointing between two buildings, she


    advised, "Don''t go through th


    Follow this gap petw¨¦e the


    Bunsieae: tf leads to a housing


    complex. Cut through it and you''ll


    find another street." Please read the


    original content at .


    She seemed to take a liking to me, exining everything carefully.


    Then she added, "No offense, but


    high heels while pregn nt? Youd \\


    vel,Be-garetuk This ce can be


    dangerous. Now off you go, and don''t


    come back this way!" Please read the


    original content at .


    "Thank you, thank you so much!" | replied with repeated thanks and then turned to walk through the gap between the buildings.


    But just as | emerged from the


    narrow passage, something


    my eye, a nN froze \itheut''a second


    hoe Sear around and hurried


    back the way | came... Please read


    the original content at


    .

 Chapter 536

    Chapter 536


    The moment | nced up, | saw Mason striding out of the apartmentplex. Thankfully engrossed in his phone, he did not


    notice me slipping out from the narrow space between the buildings.


    My reflexes kicked in. | spun around and retraced my steps, slipping back into the alley that led to the market''s back entrance.


    But it was toote to escape the way | hade. He was only a few strides away. If he spotted me, he would definitely


    recognize me.


    Back in high school, he had a crush on me that bordered on obsession, always cornering me whenever he could. It only stopped


    after my dad gave him a verbalshing and got the Wood family involved. But Mason was the type to hold a grudge.


    If it hadn''t been for my dad''s old camaraderie with Old Mr. Wood, Mason wouldn''t have let things lie.


    If he recognized me now, the fallout would be... interesting, to say the least. Considering he had somehow mixed Jesper into


    this, | needed to figure out what their game was.


    With no other choice, | ducked back into the market hall and hid behind a couple picking out fish, stealing nces behind me.


    Mason, bag in hand, was heading out, but he seemed to sense something and made for the market hall.


    My heart hammered as | pretended to inspect the fish, keeping him in my peripheral vision.


    He paused at the entrance of the hall, scanning the interior with a cold gaze. | quickly turned away, feigning interest in the


    shellfish behind me.


    My heart was pounding in my chest.


    Before long, a woman who had pulled me aside earlier sidled up to me, smirking mischievously. "He''s gone!"


    Instinctively, | nced back at the entrance. Without a doubt, Mason was nowhere in sight.


    The woman teased in a snide tone, "Your man?"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Internally, | rolled my eyes. Was she kidding? Him, my man? But it wasn''t worth exining; | didn¡¯t want to stir up trouble.


    | offered an awkward smile and walked away quickly.


    Sure enough, Mason was almost out of the alley.


    | hesitated, the woman behind me rattling on, "These days, society''s gone to the dogs, making women turn into detectives! Why


    even bother with marriage? Marriage is a bloody grave!"


    Someone egged her on, "You''ve got a point. Once bitten, twice shy!"


    | was at a loss for words.


    As Mason turned the corner out of the alley, | started to follow.


    But | was on edge, dreading the possibility of him doubling back. If he did, I''d be caught for sure.


    Suddenly, my phone vibrated in my hand, nearly making me drop it. It was Hannah. | answered quickly.


    Her urgent voice cut through, "Allie, go back, don''te out!"


    | froze, then quickly looked towards the alley''s mouth. "Hurry back!" she added.


    Realizing the gravity of the situation, | turned and retreated.


    Hannah had my location. Something wasn''t right outside.


    | hesitated, considering going through the market, but dismissed the thought. Instead, | chose to weave back through the narrow


    space between the buildings. The woman had said that once past thisplex, | could reach another street. | had to leave


    immediately.


    Entering theplex, | noticed its considerable size, clearly an older development, but well-kept.


    Observing the residents, it was a mixed bag. Typically, those living near markets were a diverse lot, many of them vendors or


    using the space for storage.


    As | inquired about an exit, | realized finding Mason''s hideout here would be quite a challenge.


    Once | emerged, | discovered | w


    quite far from here trked?


    Fleaseiiedthe original content atChapter


    No wonder many chose this shortcut to the main street.


    As | deliberated my next move, a car


    screeched to a halt beside re. thy


    prise; @ad Hannah shouting,


    et in!" Please read the original


    content at .


    | yanked the door open and jumped inside.


    "What happened just now?" | buckled up and asked.


    "Mason was waiting at the alley''s


    mouth like a spider in segeeom


    uld yewalkeasight into his trap,"


    nnah exined, elerating away


    from the street. Please read the


    original content at .


    "He''s onto us," | mused, "very vignt."


    "You know him?" Hannah nced at me.


    "He''s the grandson of the Wood Manor."


    "What''s his name?" she pressed.


    "Mason Wood!"


    Hannah shook her head, "That doesn''t make sense."

 Chapter 537

    Chapter 537


    | shot Hannah a puzzled look. "What do you mean? What''s wrong?"


    "The name''s all wrong! Do you have any idea why | wasteing out?" Hannah asked, her gaze locking onto me as she


    steered the car onto the road where | had parked.


    "| was about to ask you the same thing. | checked his business license.¡±


    ¡°Business license?" | was taken aback, looking at her in astonishment. "How did you manage that?"


    "Oh, that was a piece of cake. | snuck into his office!" Hannah boasted, her face glowing with pride. "That bar belongs to him, but


    his name isn''t Mason Wood!"


    "So, what''s his name?" | asked, my curiosity piqued.


    "On the business license, his name is Adkins Smith!" Hannah said, passing her phone over to me.


    | took the phone, opened the album, and looked at the photo of the license she had snapped. The capital listed wasn''t much, just


    $80,000. But sure enough, the name was Adkins!


    "Could you have mistaken him for someone else?" Hannah asked, concern etching her features.


    ¡°And how did you confirm that he''s the owner?" | was reluctant to believe the truth unfolding before my eyes.


    "In his office drawer, | found a photocopy of an ID card. Keep scrolling the album..."


    | flicked my finger to continue scrolling through the images, and there it was, the ID photocopy Hannah mentioned. The photo


    showed the same pumpkin-like round face. | checked the address. It wasn''t from Silverdale City at all but from some small town


    out of state.


    Shaking my head in disbelief, | said with certainty, "How is this possible? I''m telling you, | couldn''t possibly mistake him!"


    "I''ve sent all this to Logan to check if it''s true."


    ¡°It can''t be true! Even if he were reduced to ashes, I''d recognize him. He''s bulked up now, for sure. Used to be skinny as a rail,


    but now he''s built like a bear! Sure, he''s changed a lot physically, but | couldn''t mistake him!"


    | scrutinized the pumpkin face on the photocopy again. "No doubt about it, it''s him! And you know,st time | was home, my mom


    mentioned that the Wood Manor came into my dad''s hands because Mason had gotten into trouble and had to sell."


    "But it still doesn''t add up. Look at the license issue date!" Hannah pointed out. "That license is six years old!"


    | examined the date on the license and murmured, "This isn''t right."


    "Do you know when the Wood Manor was acquired?" Hannah inquired.


    | shook my head. "That''s something you''ll have to ask my dad."


    "Then let''s go ask him. We need to get to the bottom of this! If you''re certain that this guy is definitely Mason, then we''ve got a


    big problem," Hannah mused, mumbling to herself, "I''ve always suspected something fishy on the inside... It seems like..."


    Of course, | knew what she was implying. But | had to admit that Hannah''s attention to detail was impressive. She had managed


    to infiltrate Mason''s office and get ahold of this information.


    No wonder she waste.


    ¡°Allie, don''t you ever go doing something like that on your own. It''s dangerous and you''re not a pro. You could get caught so


    easily!" Hannah turned to me, her tone serious and stern. "| wouldn''t know how to face things if something happened to you."


    "| was just panicking! When they came out, | recognized Mason immediately, and he was with Jesper. How could | not be


    worried?" | exined, "There must be something wrong here."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Definitely something amiss. Jesper''sing to Silverdale City wasn''t by chance. He was surely targeting you. Otherwise, Logan


    said Jesper had already sorted his visa!" Hannah shared, "The visa thing was just a smokescreen!"


    "Do you know what my mom said about why Mason got locked up?" | asked Hannah in return.


    She looked at me, "What''s the story?"


    | whispered, "Simr to foe


    involved in the ck Ae


    his finger. afh sons flega oe


    AO hould have been a dead


    end for him, so | just don''t get it...


    how did he slip out?" Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah went silent.


    As Hannah drove past where | had


    parked, my instincts drg sumewsto


    t mau of tee ere a group


    guys was squaring off. Please read


    the original content at


    .


    "What''s going on there? A brawl?" | quickly pointed it out to Hannah.


    "Don''t worry about it, just a Ca


    Hannah said dismiss psaly, "''''


    pegple. eating tabs on him." micas


    read the original content at


    .


    "Then let''s head back," | suggested.


    But the image of the Wood Manor had already etched itself into my mind.


    It seemed that Wood Manor was indeed attracting a lot of attention.

 Chapter 538

    Chapter 538


    Every time | thought of Wood Manor, my mind became a whirlpool of questions.


    Lately, the buzz around Wood Manor was overwhelming.


    The phone in my hand buzzed again, snapping me out of my reverie. | nced at the caller ID, it was Catherine. | quickly


    answered.


    ¡°Are you back?" | asked.


    She burst into giggles. "Can''t keep anything from you, can |? | wanted to surprise you!"


    ¡°Are you at home, or... where exactly?" | pressed her.


    "Justnded and turned on my phone!" Catherine was tinged with excitement in her voice.


    "Stay put. I''lle get you," | said, then turned to Hannah, "We need to head to the airport!"


    Hannah raised an eyebrow but started looking for a ce to turn around.


    Catherine kept talking, "Nice! That''s why | didn''t call my dad!"


    "Please, when have you ever called your dad when you got back? iming you''re from the Damon family is like saying the sky


    is green. You''re a member of the Wilburn family through and through. Too bad | don''t have a brother for you," | teased.


    Sheughed harder, "| wouldn''t mind joining the Wilburn family, especially if ites with a hefty dowry!"


    "Oh? Is that a hint? Are you talking about marriage now? That was quick! So he''s done ying games?" | joked. "Got him


    wrapped around your finger?¡±


    "Damn!" She cursed yfully, "Why do you always bring up the most ufortable topics?"


    Clearly, Catherine''s mood had dipped.


    | was surprised, musing that Logan must really have a hold on her. "What''s up? He''s still ying hard to get? Being


    nomittal?" | asked, somewhat annoyed, then added fuel to the fire, "Then let him go! It''s exhausting for both of us!"


    "Can we not talk about this, please?" Catherine tried to change the subject, "Let''s talk about food instead."


    "You came back to Silverdale City just to eat? They don''t have food in Goldenvale Town?" | chided her, "It''s just food. Oldtown


    Avenue''s food will leave you stuffed! Let''s hit it up when we get there."


    ¡°Really?¡± She perked up, "You''re serious?"


    "Dead serious!"


    "It is developing that fast?" She sounded incredulous, "Last time | was back, there were only a few ces."


    ¡°Last time was ages ago," | said dismissively, "You''re a foodie who thinks Oldtown Avenue evolves at a snail''s pace. Wait till |


    show you what ''warp speed! looks like!"


    "Damn!" She was candid as ever, "Just don''t tell me it''s be toomercialized."


    ¡°You underestimate our developer''s ability. Find a spot to sit tight and grab a snack. I''ll be there shortly," | told her.


    "Don''t hang up! Hannah''s driving, right?" Catherine didn''t want to end the call. She was always like this. Once she got on the


    phone, there was no stopping her.


    "Can you let me save some battery? Or do you want to drain itpletely before hanging up? Maybe your ambiguous beau will


    call you. Will you be able to answer? Remember, you''ve just been ¡®kidnapped¡¯, and he''s probably anxious about your loss!"


    That got her. As a hopeless romantic, she quickly agreed, "You''re right, | forgot to let him know I''m safe."


    "Then hang up. I''ll see you soon. Make your call. By the time you''re done, I''ll be there," | said and hung up.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    | exhaled deeply. As fate would have it, Logan''s call came through right then.


    Hannah chuckled, "Those two are a match made in heaven!"


    "| don''t know about that, but Logan, he''s a tough nut to crack, that''s for sure," | said as | answered.


    "Logan!"


    ¡°Allie, who were you talking to for a long while?"


    "You''re asking me?" | shot back.


    He went silent, and |ughed, "She


    justnded. I''m on my-way tethe'' |!


    airgork (matraid she''s kidnapped


    again!" Please read the original


    content at .


    "Mhm, good. Keep her in Silverdale City for a while. Give me a break!" Logan said seriously.


    "You tired of her already? Think


    carefully, man. This is just th om


    beginning, You paiski have a lifetime


    Reteovanre her!" | teased, then got


    serious, "So, what''s up with the call?"


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "| sent you a link. Check it out and let


    me know," Logan seid-aprunth@nd


    8 up prabablyas Catherine''s call


    came through to him. Please read the


    original content at .


    | quickly opened my phone to see the link he''d sent.

 Chapter 539

    Chapter 539


    | clicked on the link Logan sent me and was greeted by a grainy image, a silent video that looked like an old surveince


    recording.


    The scene unfolded in what appeared to be the lobby of a hospital. A middle-aged woman, pacing back and forth, clutched a


    child to her chest, seemingly trying to soothe the wailing bundle in her arms.


    | was utterly baffled, thinking, "What the heck is Logan sending me here?"


    But the next second, | froze. Another figure that came into view was Hazel Garry Dawson.


    Hazel wasn''t as heavy back then, and | recognized the dress she was wearing instantly. It was the one I''d bought for her when


    we threw the christening party for Probert.


    That dress had cost a pretty penny, and she treasured it because of its price tag. She wore it everywhere, holding it dear to her


    heart.


    There she was, in the video, clutching a stack of papers and striding purposefully across the room. After gesturing to the other


    woman, they both headed for the exit.


    The video ended as they walked out the door.


    | must have watched it a dozen times, zooming in on the face of the woman holding the child. However, no matter how hard |


    tried, | couldn''t ce her.


    What was Hazel doing with this woman, and why were they with a child?


    My mind was spinning as | frantically redialed Logan''s number, but the line was busy.


    | put down the phone and reyed the video, with all my attention on the child this time.


    It was impossible to make out any details. The child was swaddled in a thin nket, looking so small.


    Tears flooded my eyes, and a lump formed in my throat as | whispered, "My baby! My baby!"


    Hannah looked at me with confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    "It''s my baby!" | murmured, eyes still locked on the screen, "This has to be my lost baby."


    Hannah realized something and asked, "What do you mean? Did you find a clue?"


    "It has to be my child!" | insisted, staring at the little baby in the woman''s arms, barely able to make out the woman''s face.


    | tried calling Logan again, still busy.


    "Damn it, Catherine! Can''t you ever get off the phone!" | muttered angrily.


    ¡°Let me see it!" Hannah urged me.


    "Keep your eyes on the road. You can see it in a bit," | told her, "Logan found some old surveince footage. He wants me to


    confirm if the woman in it is Hazel.¡±


    As | spoke, Logan finally called back. | quickly wiped away my tears and asked him, "Where did you find this video?"


    ¡°It was at the Bright Future Health Center of Goldenvale Town, now known as Silver Shell Medical Center. An old head nurse had


    kept it by ident. You see, she was trying to catch evidence of her man cheating with some floozy. That''s why she saved this


    clip. We can''t be sure, but could it be Hazel from back then?¡± Logan exined.


    "It''s her, no doubt about it," | said with certainty.


    "You''re sure?"


    "Positive. She wasn''t as heavy then, and she''s wearing the dress | bought her. It can''t be anyone else!"


    "Do you recognize the other woman or have you seen her before?"


    "I''ve never seen her before, I''m sure


    of it!" | replied quickly, my voi eacqed


    with anxi ty, WhatabobPthe child...


    Boa cect that... the child she''s


    holding... could be my lost baby?"


    Please read the original content at


    .


    | was stumbling over my words, my thoughts crystal clear but my ability to express them faltering.


    "Look at the date on the video!"


    With trembling hands, | opened the link again and went straight to the timestamp. It was exactly five months after my third child''s


    birth.


    "It''s... it''s five months after he was


    born," | stammered, my lips qui


    as | stared at thecsord¨¦n Struggling


    to dont my emotions, "This is my


    child, right? Logan, please... help me


    find him!" Please read the original


    content at .


    "We also started suspecting when we saw the date... It''s just a guess. It could be our missing child, but..."


    His voice trailed off, and | brokeMaterial ? N?velDrama.Org.


    down, sobbing into the phone, O1"


    : gpea hagenveltenry only hope


    O ih ing him... | have to find him!"


    Please read the original content at


    .

 Chapter 540

    Chapter 540


    Across the street, Logan heard my current state and immediately said, "Allie, don''t be like this. I''ll do everything | can, but it''s just


    a matter of time. What | was trying to say is that Hazel might have known about it, but... Hazel''s dead! We need to find another


    way to get the clues."


    ¡°Hazel knew!" | muttered, repeating Logan''s words, "Hazel knew!"


    At that moment, | was so filled with rage | could scratch steel. Of course, someone from the Dawson family knew.


    Hazel!


    What on earth did | ever do to you? Why did you treat me this way?


    With a sharp pain in my chest, | struggled to breathe and wanted to scream out loud with all my might.


    ¡°Allie, this is good news, that''s why | was in a rush to confirm it with you! If you''re going to be like this, I''d be scared to tell you


    anything else!"


    "No... you have to tell me. | need to know what''s happening! Logan..." | covered my face, trying to soothe myself, took deep


    breaths to calm down, and then continued, "No matter what, you have to help me find him! He... he''s missed too much of a


    mother''s love already! | can''t wait for another second... you understand..."


    "| get it, | do understand how you feel, which is why I''m already on it! Don''t worry," Logan assured me.


    "Thank you," | said and then hung up the phone.


    | clenched the phone, trying desperately to hold back the tears, feeling an indescribable heartache.


    Hannah looked at me, "Allie, try to stay calm, this is actually good news!"


    "He... he was taken away from me before he even turned five months old! Hannah, do you have any idea what that means?..."


    Hannah stayed silent, her face looking worse for wear.


    "They... who gave them the audacity to do this? Huh?" | couldn''t hold back anymore, trembling with fury, "They''re dead, all of


    them! But what about my child?"


    We had reached the airport pickup point by then, and Hannah pulled out my phone to call Catherine.


    I, meanwhile, waspletely unable to control my emotions.


    It was even more painful than the moment | found out my child had been switched. At least then, | had one clear thought: |


    needed to find him.


    But at this moment, | felt like | had thrown a punch with all my might only to hit cotton, powerless and desperate.


    Hazel was gone. | even had no chance to revenge against her.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She had hidden my child without guilt. Why? For what reason?


    | cried so hard that | could barely catch my breath. It was the first time | ever cried so desperately.


    It was more precisely a hatred that drove me mad, hating that | couldn''t personally tear her apart.


    Hazel, the root of all evil in the Dawson family.


    Suddenly, there was a knock on the car window. Hannah turned around, unlocked the car, and Catherine swept in like a


    whirlwind, "Darling..."


    She had only stepped one leg into the car when she sensed something was off and immediately shouted, "What''s going on?"


    She threw her suitcase into the trunk and got into the car, looking at me with concern, "Allie, what happened? You were fine just


    a minute ago? Hannah, what''s going on!"


    Hannah knew that Catherine wasn''t aware of my child''s disappearance, so she shrugged helplessly, "It''s a long story! Let''s find a


    ce, and I''ll tell you everything!"


    With that, she floored the elerator, and the car sped off.


    Catherine kept trying tofort me, not knowing what exactly had happened. She became as frantic as a monkey scratching its


    head.


    Finally, unable to bear it any longer, she yelled at Hannah, "Hannah, please, find a ce to stop!"


    Hannah gave her an okay sign.


    | took a deep breath, trying to control my emotions, "It''s okay... just let me have a moment of peace!"


    Once off the airport highway, Hannah drove the car to the riverside and found a spot to park.


    | got out of the car and ran to the


    river''s edge, screaming at thetep gf


    my lungs againgtth¨¦ Gubhing water,


    startli atherine into retreating and


    grabbing hold of Hannah. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    "Tell me now, what exactly is going on?"


    Hannah shook her head as she watched me, "Let her vent!"


    It wasn''t until my screams ran out and | sat exhausted on the riverbank that | patted the space next to me, signaling them to


    come over.


    After | told Catherine the whole story


    about Carl and my lost baby, she was


    livid, "That Hazel, sheagver rie yaw


    thing an Hate. She deserved to


    die. Even god wouldn''t forgive her.


    She''s definitely going to hell. That


    whole family is heartless! Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Hannah looked at me, trying to


    console me, "Allie, don''t dwell on j


    too much. roujare honk to


    dogoad Wien facing death. Maybe


    her leaving you her belongings was


    her way of repenting." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    The mention of those belongings triggered a thought, and | suddenly looked at Hannah.

 Chapter 541

    Chapter 541


    Hannah caught my gaze and immediately asked, "What''s up?"


    | was stunned for a few seconds, then stood up abruptly, grabbing her arm, "| need to head back to Goldenvale Town right now."


    Both Hannah and Catherine were baffled, their eyes fixed on me, rmed by my expression.


    Catherine quickly grabbed hold of me, "Allie, are you okay?"


    "Come on. Do | look like I''m not okay?" | retorted, and then said to Hannah with urgency, "We need to go to Goldenvale Town


    now.


    Hannah and Catherine exchanged a nce, and then Hannah inquired, "You mean we''re not heading home, we''re going straight


    to the airport?¡±


    ¡°Exactly, we head to the airport right now, and you, Catherine will drive my car back." | told Catherine decisively, "You''ll take my


    car home! I''ll be back before you know it.¡±


    Once Hannah heard my determination, she didn''t question further and got into the car, leading the way back to the airport.


    On the way, | phoned my mom to let her know I''d be making a quick trip back to Goldenvale Town and reassured her I''d return


    soon.


    It wasn''t until we were aboard the ne that | exined to Hannah the reason behind my sudden decision.


    By the time we arrived in Goldenvale Town, it waste, but | couldn''t stop for a second, heading straight to the bank where | kept


    my belongings and retrieving what | had stored.


    Next, | called Logan and Ronan, instructing them to meet at my house.


    When | finally reached home and pushed the door open, the sight that greeted me was shocking. The vi had been trashed, a


    sorry sight that provoked an incredulousugh of fury from me, as | muttered, "What a bunch of animals!"


    It didn''t take a genius to guess who was behind it. Hannah wanted to call the cops, but | stopped her, "It''s perfect. | didn''t want


    this ce anymore anyway. If they hadn''t trashed it, | would have. They''ve shattered everyst tie | had to this ce."


    Just then, Ronan and Logan walked in.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing the state of the house, Ronan probably worried I''d be heartbroken and reached out to hold my hand, "Let''s go. We can''t


    stay here any longer."


    As | stepped out of the house, | couldn''t help but take onest look back, a wry smile on my face. | handed the keys to Hannah,


    saying coldly, "Take care of it."


    Hannah was so angry she was practically grinding her teeth, and with one fierce nce back at the house, we all got into the car


    and drove away from the neighborhood.


    | told Ronan, "Find us a hotel. | can¡¯t stay long. There''s trouble brewing back in Silverdale City, and | need to sort things out


    before heading back."


    Ronan remained silent, driving quietly, so | didn''t say any more.


    It wasn''t until we entered a breathtakingly beautiful residential area that | asked Ronan, "Where are we?"


    "Serene Garden Homes." he replied, "It''s a new coastal development on the east side of Goldenvale Town, just five miles from


    your old neighborhood. It''s the only garden vi area in the city that hasn''t been pre-sold yet. I''ve reserved a unit. If you like the


    environment, you can stay."


    | hastily replied, "I can''t take your favorite spot. If there''s another one avable, reserve it for me. We could be neighbors."


    The moment the words left my mouth, the atmosphere turned awkward, and Logan couldn''t help but cough lightly.


    | knew I''d made a faux pas, but luckily


    Ronan pretended not to hear and


    continued mane tuenieg togare! |


    the window an | had to admit,


    the neighborhood was stunning with


    a mountain range as its backdrop


    and lush greenery. It was like a forest


    oxygen bar. Please read the original


    content at .


    To the lefty the vast agrees of -


    ocean, and within the sia a


    natural p ng. Thepxivater oe were


    inna ne e, connecting


    uniquely styled vi that was a feast


    for the eyes. Please read the original


    content at .


    "It''s beautiful.¡± My mood lifted


    instantly, "| can''t believe Gol


    Town w was bi bidipgrsuetea em


    Hanah! we didn''t even see this ce


    when we were looking." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    ¡°Allie, there''s no way | could have found this ce." She finished with a raised eyebrow in Ronan''s direction. | didn''t dare to


    chime in.


    The car stopped in front of arge vi, set amidst a sprawlingwn, slightlyrger than the others, with a well-maintained


    garden.


    As we got out, Ronan looked at me, "So, what do you think?"


    "It''s more than just nice." | chirped, looking at him excitedly, "Is this the one you kept for yourself? It''s a bit big.¡±


    He led the way inside, casually saying, "It''s not too big. It''s perfect for a big family.¡±

 Chapter 542

    Chapter 542


    As Ronan''s words hung in the air, a twinge of guilt tugged at my conscience. | sneaked a nce at the other two who seemed


    like they didn''t hear anything, standing off in the distance like they were admiring the view.


    Was | overthinking it?


    Yet the implication stung, and | did have a brood of kids.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Caught in my hesitation, Ronan looked back and called out, "Come on in."


    Logan cleared his throat and shot me a meaningful look, "Get in here, and why y the stranger in your own house?"


    | was at a loss for words. To argue felt wrong, yet to stay silent seemed to admit to some hidden truth.


    Screw it! | marched inside with no time for pretense.


    The vi''s interior was a testament to opulence, glittering at every turn. | barely had time to admire it before plopping down on the


    sofa and eagerly rifling through the items I''d brought from the bank. | fixated on the property deed, scrutinizing every detail.


    Handing it to Logan, | said, "Can you have someone check out this address? See what''s up and who''s living there. Hazel left this


    to me with a strange look in her eyes. | never understood it. Now that | think about it, she should mean something. From what |


    know about Hazel, she only likes big new houses and would never buy a 70-square-meter house like this on purpose. | smell a


    rat."


    Logan took the deed from me, nodding as he studied the address before snapping a photo with his phone and sending it off.


    Hannah fished out an old cell phone from the pile and turned it over in her hands, "Boss, got a charger for this thing? Let''s juice it


    up and see what''s inside. It''s weird that she treasured this old thing among her valuables, and she always had the best of


    everything.¡±


    Ronan pointed to a drawer under the coffee table, "There should be one in there."


    Hannah dug out the charger and plugged in the phone.


    | turned to Logan, "My youngest is about three months younger than Carl. From that video you showed me, he would''ve been


    five months old at the time."


    When | said this, my eyes misted up again and | lowered my eyes, adjusting myself before continuing, "The deed shows the


    house was bought less than a month after he was born. My youngest son might''ve only been with me for a month before he was


    swapped."


    ¡°Were you ill at the time?" Logan asked.


    Ronan watched me thoughifully, staying silent.


    | furrowed my brow in recollection, "| can''t quite remember. As for the bedrest, | had no real sense of time. Everyone said | wasn''t


    well, and the Dawson family hardly visited me after the birth. Maybe because of the number of kids..."


    As | broached the topic, | instinctively nced at Ronan. Our eyes met, and | quickly looked away, "Perhaps because of the kids,


    they didn''t pay much attention. So after my youngest son was born and they cited my poor health, we didn''t even have a proper


    celebration. Now it seems there was more to it."


    Hannah cursed, "At the end of the day, it''s Jan who''s the real piece of work. He doesn''t deserve to be a father. He thinks he


    can just say he didn''t know and that''s the end of it. He better hope | never see him again."


    "| was so blind," | continued, gripping


    my fists tight, "l remember once, after


    ie baby turned amg athe) Ic |


    and said rene how did he end


    up so ugly? The doctor said he was


    cute. Cute? He looks like a little


    monkey. Not nearly as cute as the


    other babies." Please read the original


    content at .


    Zora''s displeasure was evident as she retorted, "Ugly? All babies look like this. He''ll grow into his looks. | think he''s beautiful!"


    Now it''s clear. Her reaction was a


    mother''s instinct, and athen likes


    hergh cheey, At the


    paige thought she was just trying to


    please me. Please read the original


    content at .


    "| was such a fool.¡±


    "Don''t me yourself, and it''s not your fault. Dwelling on the past won''t help. The priority is to find your son," Ronanforted


    me.


    Hannah, still huddled by the coffee


    table, had managed to werup the


    is) ¡°ath pe factiraed fo ¡ã with the


    ie of its startup melody. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    Logan waved the deed in front of me and said, "I''ll hold onto this and get someone on it right away."


    As he spoke, Hannah gasped.

 Chapter 543

    Chapter 543


    With a shriek that turned heads, Hannah gaped at me, her expression a mix of shock and awe. Slowly, she raised her phone


    towards me.


    The screen faced my way, disying a wallpaper of an adorable baby.


    | was glued to the image of the child, with those big, soulful eyes, glossy as onyx, peering out at me from the screen. Those


    eyes...


    My mind buzzed as if struck by lightning.


    Yet, | couldn''t tear my gaze away from that screen.


    In a sudden burst of energy, | leaped to my hand, reaching out for the phone, but the coffee table was too wide, the distance too


    great, and | couldn''t touch it.


    Without missing a beat, Hannah yanked the charger from the wall and rushed to my side, phone in hand.


    I snatched it eagerly, clutching it tightly, "This is my son. This has to be my youngest son. Look at those eyes..."


    My fingers caressed the screen where the eyes were, "These are the eyes my children should have."


    Hannah scooted closer, peering at the screen intently, "Yeah, he''s got Monique''s eyes, but he''s even more beautiful. And look at


    this, just like Probert..."


    Tears started to fall, sshing down like rain.


    "Check the gallery, and there might be more." Ronan''s voice snapped me back to the moment.


    | fumbled for the photo album, but the phone went dead.


    Panicked, | looked to Hannah, "Quick, charge it!"


    She snatched the phone back and plugged it in again, and | couldn''t wait, | rushed over and crouched beside her, watching the


    screen with the charging battery.


    "You were right all along, Allie," Hannah said, a hint of relief in her eyes, "Hazel really did have a change of heart at the end. She


    was on herst breath and suddenly became good. She should have just told us, and | nearly tossed this damn phone.¡±


    Looking at me, her eyes were filled with fear, "That was too close. Good thing you stopped me from throwing it out."


    "It''s destiny," Ronan said, looking at me, "There''s definitely a story between Hazel and this child. | bet she didn''t tell you


    everything at the hospital because she knew something about this kid''s whereabouts that only she was privy to. Especially with


    Zora around, she must have been afraid to speak up. She probably never expected to pass away that very night."


    | sat there numbly, pondering over Ronan''s analysis, and murmured, "She was staring at me so intensely, and her eyes were


    screaming a message, full of urgency, tension, and a touch of sorrow and destion as if she was terrified | wouldn''t take it."


    "No wonder there''s such a big secret hidden in here," Hannah said, turning to Logan, "You were right, Allie. That house must be


    involved. Our little boy could be living there."


    Her words jolted me to action. | stood up so fast that the room spun, and | stumbled forward, but Ronan was there to catch me


    with his long arms.


    Hannah looked at me with concern, "Allie, you''re exhausted. You''ve been non-stop all day, just take a moment to..."


    "No, Logan, we''re going there now, right this minute." | couldn''t wait any longer, fearing more dys would bring more


    complications.


    | could almost see my son smiling at me, reaching out his little hands and saying, "Mommy,e quick."


    "Hold on a moment." Ronan pressed me back onto the couch and went to fetch a ss of milk, "Drink this, and then we''ll go."


    Without a word of protest, | gulped down the milk and looked at him determinedly, "Let''s go now."


    Ronan gave me a helpless look, examining my face, and asked softly, "Are you sure you''re up for this?¡±


    "I''m fine. I''ve been fine, and I''m not that frail." | assured him, my heart racing with urgency.


    "Get someone who knows the area well," Ronan instructed Logan.


    "Got it," Logan replied, and after making a call, we all headed out.


    Larkin was our driver this time.


    As we left the neighborhood, the car


    sprinted through the ni at streets like


    {seine theDOAE Dut to me, it


    fett agonizingly slow. Every second


    was torture. Please read the original


    content at .


    Instinctively, | gripped Ronan''s hand, clinging to it tightly, as if it were the anchor of my soul.


    "My dear son, mommy''sing. I''ll see you soon."


    Upon reaching the neighborhood,


    someone was already t ere waiting)


    6 withoybarin Gtr, we were


    u ea straight into themunity.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    As we all got out of the car, my heart


    was hammering in mysghest aad ny


    legs fete weak Bul was the first toContent ? N?velDrama.Org.


    dash inside. Please read the original


    content at .


    | could almost feel that my son was getting closer by the moment.

 Chapter 544

    Chapter 544


    | practically sprinted to the front of the line, with Hannah hot on my heels.


    The building was an old walk-up, and ording to the faded numbers on the door, we were looking for Apartment 302 in Block


    B.


    We found the door and | knocked impatiently. But after several knocks, there was no response, and | could feel my heart sinking.


    Maybe they''re heavy sleepers and didn''t hear? | knocked harder, but still, nothing.


    Just then, the door across the hall clicked and creaked open a fraction. We all turned to look.


    Ahead poked out, nced at the few of us in the hallway, and then quickly retreated, about to shut the door.


    Ronan was quick on his feet, "Excuse me, madam," he called out, his voice smooth and polite.


    Perhaps it was his courteous tone that made the woman hesitate. She opened the door a bit wider, revealing half her cautious


    figure.


    | totally got it. After all, it was well past midnight, and knocking on doors at this hour was rude.


    Plus, a group of people at your door could put anyone on edge.


    That was when | got a good look at her; a woman in her forties, d infy pajamas.


    She was eyeing us warily, asking, "Who are you looking for? No one''s lived across the way for a while."


    My heart just about broke. Stepping forward, | stood in her doorway as she tried to close it, and | quickly stuck my hand in the


    gap.


    "Please, just a moment,¡± | pleaded, "I just wanted to ask about the people who lived across. Do you know where they might have


    gone? Did they have a child, a beautiful child?"


    | was talking a mile a minute, barely coherent.


    The woman shook her head and said, "! don''t really know them. They were gone by the time | moved in."


    ¡°How can you not know them? Aren''t you neighbors?" | persisted, gripping her doorframe tightly, not willing to let her close the


    door.


    ¡°And when did you move in?" | pressed.


    Ronan, seeing my state, stepped up behind me and gently asked, "Madam, do you rent or own your ce?"


    "I''m renting. Moved in about six months ago and I''ve never seen anyone living across from me," she said, her tone t, probably


    annoyed by my interrogation.


    My heart kept plummeting. Six months?


    | was still in aa back then, and Hazel was still with us. How could they just disappear?


    What was going on?


    Six months had gone by, and where had they gone? Where was my child?


    | finally found a clue, but | didn''t expect them to leave.


    Just as | was grappling with the dead end of our lead, the woman tentatively added, "You might try asking Ad in 202


    downstairs. She''s been here forever, might know them."


    At that, | was re-energized, ready to bolt downstairs, but Ronan caught me by the arm.


    | looked at him, confused. He nced at his watch and said, "Allie, let''s wait till tomorrow. It''s toote now."


    | bit my lip, wanting to argue, but reason won out, and | just looked at him with eyes full of defeat.


    "We''ll head back now, and get


    someone toe by i ele manning.


    40 RONAN useful,¡±


    teat said, probably sensing my


    desperation. Please read the original


    content at .


    I slumped against the wall, my gaze fixed on the firmly shut door, crying silently inside.


    The woman quietly stepped back and softly closed her door.


    | gave the door onest hopeless nce, then turned and took a step down the stairs.


    As we were about to descend, the


    door cracked open aga nang etirhid


    vole ce sail ¡°yhe\day Nisfore yesterday,


    someone else was looking for the


    people across." Please read the


    original content at .Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ronan quickly asked, "What kind of people?"


    Seeming a bit frightened, the woman''s door gap narrowed.


    Hannah quickly shed her badge and assured, "Don''t worry, we''re police officers.


    The woman then rxed, opened the


    door wider, and nervously told us,


    "They looked mee h albipeen. Gi


    buasly: TheyBad enacing air about


    them, and knocked on my door too,


    asking about who lived there. They


    also asked if there was a child."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    | whipped my head to Ronan, my whole being on edge.

 Chapter 545

    Chapter 545


    Our gazes locked, a silent exchange of questions swirling in our eyes. Could someone else know about the child''s whereabouts


    here? Who could it be, Jerome?


    Ronan pondered for a moment, then fired a few questions at thedy, but | was so anxious | couldn''t absorb a word.


    Finally, Ronan thanked the woman, emphasizing that she should keep mum about seeing us, no matter who came knocking.


    The woman nodded vigorously and only then did the door firmly shut.


    We stood in silence, exchanging uneasy nces.


    Logan had been quiet the whole time, his expression grave.


    Hannah looked towards Ronan and softly suggested, "Boss, maybe we should take a look inside?"


    | gazed at Ronan, hope flooding my eyes. The message was clear that | was yearning to step inside.


    Even if no one was there now, just to look around would be something. After all, my son had been here. | wanted to feel his


    presence up close.


    Ronan looked at me, his voice dripping with indulgence, "Wanna take a look?"


    | nodded eagerly, "Yeah. Can we?"


    Without hesitation, Ronan gestured to Hannah, who sprang into action.


    She dashed to the door, whipped out a master key, and unlocked it with a quick turn.


    She looked back at me, and | was overwhelmed with emotion.


    Behind this door, my dearest little boy had once lived. Here we were in Goldenvale Town, so close yet worlds apart.


    Ronan stood behind me, and seeing my hesitation, he gently pulled me into the apartment.


    The room was stuffy, and all windows shut tight. The ce was simply decorated, an eternal monochrome, orderly, and clean as


    if still lingering with the faint scent of milk.


    My eyes searched desperately for a trace of my child, any personal belongings, but there was nothing. It was as if someone had


    intentionally cleared everything out, leaving no trace of a child''s presence.


    Hannah muttered, "Howe there''s nothing here? Looks like whoever left did so with a n. They didn''t just up and leave."


    Refusing to give up, | rifled through the ce. The wardrobe was spotless, not a single garment in sight, neither adult''s nor


    child''s.


    Logan turned to Ronan, "Hannah''s right. This looks nned, not like a hasty exit.¡±


    "Why would they leave a nice ce like this?" | murmured, pulling open the refrigerator to find it bare.


    Ronan narrowed his eyes, musing, "The way they left, maybe Hazel didn''t even know."


    "Why do you say that?" | asked, puzzled.


    "Think about it, if Hazel hid them here, maybe someone else knew too."Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Who?"


    "It''s gotta be Jerome." He frowned


    slightly, then continued, "Which


    means another group is after the


    child. The only xakeretion iGhat


    thairdepshtdre was without Hazel''s


    knowledge. Otherwise, Hazel


    would''ve informed Jerome about the


    child''s disappearance. If Jerome


    knew the kid was gone, he wouldn''t


    have sent people looking." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    Logan looked at Ronan, softly concurring, "That means someone else knew about the child. Someone other than Hazel and


    Jerome took the kid."


    | slumped onto the living room sofa, my gaze lost out the window.


    The night was beautiful, and inside,


    the light reflected off the Lele


    mirroring our figuepe.dvitey¨¦s taught


    s\grit afltW¨¦potted nts on the


    windowsill, long withered, devoid of


    life, mirroring my heart at that


    moment. Please read the original


    content at .


    Suddenly, a woman''s voice from the doorway startled us all, "Who are you people? How did you get in?"


    We spun around in shock.


    There, blocked at the door by Larkin,


    was a woman in her sixties, wi


    ear-lengt hain yea Kq\Srloral


    slebv¨¦tess blouse, her face drawn


    tight, her eyes sharp with suspicion.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Clearly, this was the quintessential neighborhood matriarch.


    Hannah stepped forward, "May | ask who you are...?"


    The olddy''s displeasure was evident as she gave Hannah a sidelong nce, "I live downstairs. My name is Ad."


    Upon hearing her introduction, a surge of joy ran through my heart. This was Ad, the downstairs resident that | had been


    eagerly longing to meet.

 Chapter 546

    Chapter 546


    | sprang to my feet and strode quickly to the door, saying to Larkin, "Get the door."


    Only then did Larkin lower his arms. Ad gave him a side-eye glower and strutted in.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She wore a scowl as she scrutinized me from head to toe, took a couple of steps inside, and only then noticed that there were


    two men in the room.


    Her eyes narrowed sharply, her displeasure evident, "Who let you all in here, in the middle of the night? who the heck are you?


    Ain''t nobody home, how''d you get in?"


    Hannah promptly shed her badge, but before she could tuck it away, Ad snatched it out of her hand, peered at it, and still


    dissatisfied, grumbled, "What''s the police doing here at this hour?"


    | quickly gestured her in, asking her to take a seat, and asked gently, "You''re Ad from 202, right? I''ve been meaning to speak


    with you, but | knew it waste and didn''t want to disturb you."


    As the saying goes, "You can''t refuse a friendly gesture." As soon as she felt the warmth and kindness in my words, her frosty


    demeanor began to thaw noticeably.


    "What''s all this about? Is it these folks..." She didn''t finish her sentence, looking back at me, she asked, "Who are you looking for


    here?"


    "Does a woman live here with a beautiful child?" | asked earnestly.


    "Yes, indeed. Ady with a little kid does live here."


    Eagerly | pressed on, "Have you seen them? Do you know when they left?¡±


    "I''ve seen them, but it''s strange that they hardly ever came out. Been here two years, and | hardly saw them a handful of times.


    Kept to themselves, mostly."


    Ad was an open book, spilling every detail.


    ¡°And | did see them twice. The woman carrying the child back from outside, and that kid was so handsome. Big eyes, a real


    darling. Just not seen much, they were always inside. As for when they left..."


    She pondered, "Exactly which day, | can''t recall. About six months ago, | saw her moving stuff out twice. | asked her what was all


    this then. And she said just junk she didn''t need. After that, | never saw them again. When they left | couldn''t say."


    "Did she move out alone?" | probed further.


    Ronan and the others were all ears, listening to her story.


    "Yes, | didn''t see anyone else." Ad eyed me, "You here looking for that woman?"


    | didn''t answer her question, instead, | continued, "No strangersing around here?"


    | was skeptical about a woman and the child living inplete istion and how could they manage.


    "If you''re talking strangers..." Ad drew out her words, then eximed, "Forgetting the most crucial person. There was


    someone. Not really a stranger, she imed to be thendlord.¡±


    | immediately understood she was referring to Hazel.


    Mentioning Hazel, Ad''s face twisted with distaste, "That woman''s no good, all puffed up with arrogance. Treats us around here


    like we''re beneath her. Lucky for us she doesn''t live here, or she''d cause trouble constantly.¡±


    "Why would you think that?" | probed, curiosity piqued. Yet, | was all too familiar with Hazel''s habit of unting her wealth.


    "One time | heard here over, and


    she was yelling at that woman, th


    kid crying. Only hepretat\snoe: the


    che wdileso loud, broke my heart.


    And that old hag was cursing


    something fierce. Really a piece of


    work." Please read the original


    content at .


    "Did shee around often?" | asked, then quickly added, "| mean that brash woman you mentioned."


    "She wasn''t a regr, but | got the


    feeling whenever she showed eplit\


    clog gil SAS Was always


    picking on that woman." Ad said


    indignantly. Please read the original


    content at .


    "Though | haven''t seen her aroundtely, at least not for the past six months.


    "That woman from this ce was too


    meek, kept to herself, all


    mysterious-like. Who lives li ERet?\


    Neighbor are jasuallytiehdly But


    rod hae always kept to herself


    and locked away in her room, quiet


    as a mouse. And the kid too, so


    well-behaved. Not like other kids,


    always crying. | barely heard that


    child cry." Please read the original


    content at .


    Ad had a lot to say.


    My heart ached. Was my son really that well-behaved?


    ¡°How old was the child the first time you saw him?" | had to know.


    There were so many questions | needed answers to, especially now that | had finally met someone who had truly seen my son.

 Chapter 547

    Chapter 547


    Ad was a real sport, answering every question thrown her way, "Oh gosh, that''s a tough one, and let me think..."


    She rolled her eyes in thought, then her face lit up as she said, "Right, | remember now. The first time | saw that kid was when


    they moved in. He was just about yay big."


    Ad gestured to indicate the size, then continued, "! could tell he was just a newborn, fresh as a daisy. | saw thisdy carrying


    him up the stairs, and being the nosy neighbor | am, | asked her who she was looking for. She said they were moving into


    apartment 3B. That was the first time | saw them."


    ¡°And you didn''t ask what their rtionship was?" | asked, my curiosity ame..


    "| did ask, actually." Ad perked up as she chatted, "The woman told me it was her son''s child. Poor thing, the daughter-inw


    passed away, and the son had gone to find work out of town. She went on to say that her inws were fighting with her over the


    baby, so she took the kid and hid out here in this apartment. She also mentioned that her grandchild couldn''t just be handed over


    to them, especially since they were not the most reputable folks. Otherwise, her daughter-inw might still be alive. Who knows


    what''s true or not, but it sounds pretty heartbreaking. Such a shame for such a beautiful child to be without a mother." Ad


    sighed, "That kid was so striking, and you wouldn''t forget his face."


    Tears began to well up in my eyes.


    Ad gave me a quizzical look, "What''s this about? Even if you''re cops, why are you looking for her? Something''s up?"


    "|..." |was at a loss for words, ncing over at Ronan.


    Ronan quickly stepped forward to help me out, "We''re family on the mother''s side. I''m the uncle, and she''s the aunt. The child


    was taken from us. It''s a long story. We''ve been searching for three years. The mother is alive and well, and it''s just that losing


    her child made her a bit out of sorts."


    Atear finally escaped and ran down my cheek.


    "See, | knew something was fishy. Why else would they be cooped up inside all the time? That no-good woman." Ad was full


    of righteous indignation, "Oh dear, did she run off again?"


    Ronan nodded, "Yes, that''s why we had no choice but to call the police.¡±


    "Oh right, some folks were looking for them a few days ago. What was that about?" Ad inquired, adding, "They didn''t look like


    good news. All grim and menacing."


    "Yeah, they were sent by the child''s paternal uncle. They don''t want the kid toe home." Ronan half-truthfully wove the story.


    ¡°Ad, do you have a photo of the woman or anything that could help us find her?" | asked on a whim.


    Ad shook her head, "No, catching a glimpse of them was rare enough.¡±


    Hannah quickly instructed Ad, "You seem like a responsible person, and you''re sharp. Here''s my number. If you hear anything


    about this family, please assist us and give us a call.


    But for today, to avoid spooking anyone, please keep this under wraps. Don''t tell anyone, not a soul, about anything rted to


    this matter or if something elsees to mind. Please, just ring us up."


    "Sure thing. You''re the police, and | can rest easy. Otherwise, I''d be wondering what kind of folks are sneaking around


    someone''s house in the dead of night, and that would be improper." Ad now exined with a smile.


    After all thismotion, leaving theplex, it was nearing 3 am.


    On the drive back, overwhelmed by


    fatigue and disappointment, ,ediginit\


    speak a WOrdA ''s


    pelea kept reying in my mind.


    Please read the original content atThis content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.Chapter


    | imagined what the woman looked like, whether she was kind to my son, and where the child might have ended up.


    By the time the car pulled into Serene Garden Homes, | had fallen asleep.


    The next day, when | opened my


    eyes, it was still pitch ck. taziliyl |


    one ver andnfdi tured "What


    reine it? Why isn''t it light out yet?"


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Thinking it was still early, | let myself drift back to sleep without a worry.


    | slept until | woke naturally, pee


    over in the soft,fprtableB¨¦a,


    gudaeniy Hit me that


    something was off. Please read the


    original content at .


    | reached out, feeling the unfamiliar bed, and startled, | sat up.

 Chapter 548

    Chapter 548


    In the dim light, | nced around the room, suddenly remembering that | was supposed to return to Serene Garden Homesst


    night. But how did | end up back in my room?


    That thought had me flinging off the covers and jumping out of bed, barefoot. | hurried to the window and with an abrupt tug,


    yanked the curtains open.


    Blinding sunlight flooded in, and | instinctively squinted against the re.


    After a moment, my eyes adjusted, and | took in the room. It was spacious, muchrger than my vi back home, decorated in


    my favorite champagne hues.


    And then... | chuckled as | spotted Milo lounging on the daybed. Sensing my gaze, thezy cat meowed at me.


    "Milo!" | scooped him up, spinning around with him held high, "How did you get here?"


    In that spin, | noticed | was in pajamas. | remembered now, and Hannah must have helped me change.


    | couldn''t afford to allow myself to reach such a state of exhaustion again. It was unbearably embarrassing.


    As | stroked the cat, | berated myself. I''d neglected Milo, and he felt thinner under my hands. He stretched disdainfully, looking at


    me with a touch of scorn.


    "You''re holding a grudge?" |ughed, "I! forgot about you. I''m sorry. It won''t happen again."


    He meowed and turned his face up to me, his expression dismissive before he leaped gracefully to the floor, stretched again,


    and jumped onto the windowsill, surveying the world below.


    | shrugged helplessly, feeling a twinge of embarrassment, and joined him at the window. The view was breathtaking, a tapestry of


    lush greenery with the endless sea beyond.


    It was truly beautiful here.


    | opened the window and took a deep breath, the air a blend of the sea¡¯s briny tang, the trees'' freshness, and a hint of sweet


    water.


    | thought of how the kids would love this ce. If only | could found my lost son and bring him here to y on thewn.


    The thought clenched my heart.


    Noticing the sun''s position, | realized it wasn''t morning sunlight at all.


    | hurried back to the bedside, grabbed my phone, and checked the time. My eyes widened in shock.


    Good heavens! It was already one o''clock in the afternoon.


    Without having found my son, | had no right to enjoy the sunshine.


    | dashed into the bathroom, freshened up quickly, and bolted out of the room. But, embarrassingly, | was lost.


    The house was too big, and | didn''t even remember how I''d gotten to my roomst night.


    Stepping out now, | was clueless about which way to go.


    As | hesitated, Ronan strode towards me, and | breathed a sigh of relief, greeting him with an awkward smile, "Ronan, |


    overslept."


    "Yesterday, Hannah mentioned you were non-stop all day, so | thought you could use the extra rest. It''s peaceful here, good for


    recovery," Ronan said seriously with no hint of mockery, "No matter the rush, you need to bnce rest with effort, especially


    while you''re still healing."


    ¡°How can | rx when my boy''s not found?" | said somberly, weighed down, "I don''t even know what kind of life he''s leading or


    who took him..."


    | trailed off, but | knew Ronan understood.


    Ronan''s deep eyes met mine, "Ease up, and we''ll get news. Hungry, aren''t you?"


    | hadn''t realized | was hungry until he mentioned it. My stomach growled on cue.


    |ughed awkwardly, "I''ve been hungry, and | can''t even remember when |st ate."


    His smile was warm andforting, and | found myself growing ustomed to that gentle face.


    ¡°Let''s fill your belly first. After eating, we''ll look into what you want to know."


    "Got any news?"


    "Don''t rush it. Let''s eat." He gestured


    to the direction we shawld takna''


    led theywayaioWh the hall. Please


    read the original content at


    .Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    | wanted to ask how | ended up in my


    roomst night but swallowed ?nel


    questignbababst it was too


    embarrassing. Please read the


    original content at .


    He seemed to sense my dilemma and turned back to me, "What''s up?"


    "Nothing," | denied it quickly.


    | followed him downstairs, trying to


    ease the awkward silenge, "varere abe


    Hapnatandithe others¡± Please read


    the original content at


    .


    "They''re out handling some things and should be back soon."


    That made me feel even more sheepish. It seemed | was the only one who''d overslept.

 Chapter 549

    Chapter 549


    He took me to the dining hall, which wasid out with an array of dishes, reminiscent of a hotel brunch buffet.


    | hurried over to pick out my favorites, grabbing a few to take back to our table. As | sat down, | turned to Ronan, "Ronan, |


    actually had something to tell you yesterday, but |pletely forgot about it with all the fuss over the kid."


    He settled opposite me with his te, urging with a gentle tone, "Go ahead."


    | started to talk between bites, recounting to Ronan the encounter with Jesper and Mason, the grandson of the Wood Manor


    family in Silverdale City.


    Ronan''s brow furrowed as soon as | mentioned Mason, "Are you sure it was him?"


    "Positive. But Hannah did some digging, and the bar''s license lists an Adkins as the owner, with an address in a small northern


    town." | recounted everything without leaving out a detail.


    "That confirms they''ve got insiders in the authorities," he said, his expression hardening with a hint of menace.


    | stared, a little stunned. | had never seen this side of him before, and it must be Bet''s personaing through.


    He seemed to notice my gaze and softened, offering me a reassuring smile.


    But then, he quickly called Logan, asking him to join us in the dining hall. Logan was apparently still around.


    Logan showed up in no time, teasing me, "Allie, how''s it feel to be back home? You were sleeping so soundly, starting to sleep


    in?"


    | could feel my cheeks burning up. | quickly turned to Ronan and blurted out, "Ronan, this ce is really great. If you''re willing to


    let go of it, | might just sweep it off your hands."


    Ronan gave me a look that was hard to read, dodging my point, "As long as you''re happy.¡±


    "It''s really peaceful here, and close to downtown too. I''ve been looking for a ce like this for ages. Hannah and | searched


    everywhere but couldn''t find a spot quite like this." Deep down, | knew this wasn''t a property just anyone could get.


    | was just trying to ease the awkwardness with myment.


    But truth be told, | really did want this ce, even if it meant shamelessly squatting here until | got it.


    Logan chuckled, "Well, it''s not something money can solve. This ce will never hit the market. The security is top-notch, so


    Ronan would be interested. With his connections, you''re set for life."


    | looked squarely at Ronan, adopting the cheeky tone | used back in our school days, "Ronan, after all these years, I''m finally


    basking in your glory. You gotta stick to your word because I''m starting to n my move."


    | wasying it on thick, but | believed that for someone like Ronan, finding another estate wouldn''t be a problem at all.


    At my words, Ronan raised an eyebrow in a rogue''s smile, teasing me back, "Do you even have anything left to move? After that


    mess, is there anything decent left?"


    | blushed furiously, shooting him a re, "Why do you always bring up the most embarrassing stuff? Even if he hadn''t trashed


    the ce, | wouldn''t want it. By moving, | mean | want to get some essentials that | actually want."


    "You''re the boss here, you decide." Ronan''s voice was breezy, as if the ce was mine all along.


    | quickly rified, "Ronan, | really do love it here. But let me be clear, | want to buy it myself for the sense of achievement."


    It was important to get this out in the open, especially in front of Logan. | didn¡¯t want him to think | was taking advantage of


    Ronan.


    Truth be told, | knew what Ronan was thinking, but | also knew my ce. As a mother of three, | couldn''t harbor any illusions. |


    wasn''t his league anymore.


    Hisment from yesterday about having many kids still stung a little.


    The achievements of my years were


    quite something, a decade wit?


    ids, plysradothtr ohe | couldn''t get


    rid of. Please read the original


    content at .


    What right did | have to sidle up to someone like Ronan, a diamond bachelor?


    Indeed, | had confidence, but it needed to be grounded in reality.


    Seeing that Ronan was silent, | prodded, "Did you hear me?"


    Ronan''s lips twitched into a slight smile, and without hesitation, he agreed, "Alright, you can pay for it."


    Finally feeling reassured, |ughed and looked around contentedly, "Perfect."


    Logan nced at Ronan and raised an eyebrow.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    We then turned to the business about Mason''s situation.


    Ronan instructed Logan to dig into


    Adkins¡¯ real identity, e asizingt | \


    Ratgver ave - Only then


    ? ie pinpoint the key yers."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Listening to Ronan''s train of thought,


    | was struck by the gravity ofike! |


    sityatign ndugitive iving so freely


    was terrifying. Please read the


    original content at .

 Chapter 550

    Chapter 550


    When the phone rang, I''d just set down my fork.


    "Is there news about the kid?" my mom blurted out the second | answered.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°How''d you guess?"


    | marveled at my parents¡¯ knack for insight. It was like they had known every move | made.


    "What else could have you so worked up?" Her voice weighed heavy with concern. "As long as we can find the kid, we''ll do


    whatever it takes.¡±


    | let out a weary sigh, feeling downcast, "It was a dead end. The ce was empty. Hazel had stashed the kid somewhere, and


    now the trail''s gone cold again."


    "Darling, as long as we know he''s alive, there''s hope, and that''s good news. We''ll find him and bring him home." My mother


    comforted.


    My voice cracked, "It''s all my fault that I lost him."


    "That''s nonsense. It was a twist of fate, nothing more."


    ¡°Mom, | know what he looks like now." My tone lifted with a hint of excitement, "He''s a beautiful baby, looks a bit like Monique


    and Probert. I''ll show you his picture."


    As | finished, | remembered the old cell phone.


    ¡°Ronan, where''s the phone? Still in the living room?"


    He nodded, his face lit up with joy, "There are loads of pictures of the kid on it. Go have a look."


    At his words, | sprang from my seat, hardly able to wait, and dashed into the living room.


    I snatched the phone from the coffee table and powered it on.


    There was that beautiful baby, smiling at me.


    | quickly opened the photo gallery. Indeed, it was filled with hundreds of snapshots of the child, from infancy to six months ago.


    Thest photo was dated around Christmas, and he was dressed all in red, just like a holiday card, perched on a little stool


    eating a cookie, his big eyes staring at the camera without a hint ofughter, his cheeks and lips smeared with cookie crumbs.


    My vision blurred. My boy had had his first cookie.


    It was a reflection of the diet of the woman who took care of him.


    | had no idea who took the photo, but it was clear he wasn''t happy, and his little expression was all serious and stiff.


    | scrolled through, feeling more pained with each image.


    There were a few videos too, of him taking his first steps, and every time he fell or plopped down, a pair of hands would lift him


    back up.


    Each time, he smiled trustingly off-camera at someone.


    | was sure he was looking at the person who had been with him.


    But in all those photos, there wasn¡¯t a single clear shot of the woman, not even a blurred shadow, except for the vague outline in


    the video Ronan had shown me.


    | thought to myself they''ve been careful.


    The kid was truly beautiful, just as Ad had said, unforgettable at first sight.


    He had inherited the best features from our family, and he was perfect in every way.


    The more | looked, the more | couldn¡¯t tear myself away, longing to hold him close and shower him with kisses.


    I cursed silently, "How could fate do this to us?"


    Just then, Hannah strode in, her voice bright, "You''re up?"


    "Where have you been?" | asked without thinking.

 Chapter 551

    Chapter 551


    Hannah said, "I''ve told Ad to ask the neighbor to delete the picture or it could be dangerous for him. | don''t think he can keep


    it.¡±


    "You did the right thing, Hannah," Logan affirmed with a thumbs-up and said, "That photo on his phone was nothing but trouble, a


    ticking time bomb."


    Hannah smirked, "Ad mentioned no one else saw it. | bet the guy took it on purpose, not some idental shot."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Logan nodded in agreement, "With only one person in the photo, it''s hardly an ident. It''s clear as day it was intentional."


    Laughter filled the air among us.


    "| made sure to give them a fair warning, better safe than sorry. After our talk, | confirm he''ll delete it," Hannah said confidently.


    "That''s the spirit," Logan chimed in, "If the other side got their hands on that picture, it could spell danger for the woman in


    question. If she''s justying low or switched hideouts, this could blow her cover wide open. And with a kid in the mix, if they find


    her, the baby will be in danger."


    Logan''s words sent a shiver down my spine, and | muttered worriedly, "We need to find them before they do. | can''t risk my son''s


    safety."


    ¡°Don''t worry, and we''re all on it," Logan reassured me, and | knew we meant a wholework of people.


    Turning to me, Hannah said, "I''ve listed that vi for an urgent sale. | was going to tidy it up, but then Jan showed up therest


    night, so | left it as is. I''m gonna clean his clock tonight."


    Her fists clenched, ready for action. There was a palpable hatred for that scoundrel Jan.


    "Can you check who owns the Dawson property? See if Farley is still residing there," | requested.


    Hannah eyed me curiously, "What are you implying?¡±


    "It''s high time he gets evicted to not get toofy. Since he had the nerve to trash my ce, it''s only fair | return the favor and


    make every Dawson homeless." | said fiercely, "| was willing to show some mercy, but he''s not making it easy.¡±


    ¡°What if the property is in Farley''s or Hazel''s name?" she probed.


    "Then find an excuse to kick him out. He loves dancing with women, right? Let''s find him a dance partner he can''t refuse,¡± |


    retorted, feeling a wave of cunning wash over me.


    Hannah grinned devilishly, showing off her pearly whites, while Logan gave me an approving look.


    "I''ve got a temper too. It''s time they learn not to mess with me," | dered.


    ¡°Rightly so. That family deserves no pity."

 Chapter 552

    Chapter 552


    | watched Logan as he toyed with an apple, grinning at me, "So, how are you nning on dealing with him?"


    I sank deeper into the couch, ncing at the grand chandelier hanging in the living room. "No rush. | haven''t quitended on the


    right scheme yet. But it''s gotta be fitting for his style."


    With a wicked smile, Logan leaned in conspiratorially, "I''ve got a killer idea."


    I sat up straight, eager, "What is it?¡±


    He chuckled, gestured me closer with his finger, and whispered his n in my ear.


    After hearing it, | stared at him in disbelief and asked, "You serious?"


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± he said, tossing the apple in the air, grinning.


    "That¡¯s it. We''ll go with your n," | smirked, feeling this was a good idea.


    Just then, Hannah''s phone rang. She quickly answered, "Hello? Okay, let''s meet tomorrow at 1 PM. Got it."


    After hanging up, she turned to me, "Allie, | gotta step out. Jan¡¯s causing a scene at the vi, blocking the agent viewing."


    | stood up immediately, "He''s got some nerve, ying the tough guy."


    Hannah scoffed, "Looks like he¡¯s got nowhere else to go. Never saw him this clingy to the house before the divorce. Now he


    can¡¯t seem to stay away."


    "Let''s go then, and I''lle with you," | said.


    Ronan strode over, "What''s up?"


    | exined, "Jan''s at the vi. | need to swing by. Plus, I''ve got a few questions for him. Don''t worry, and I''ll be back soon."


    | made the situation clear to him.


    ¡°Have Larkin tag along," Ronan suggested, ncing at Logan, who immediately dialed Larkin.


    He gave me a few more words of caution. | patted his arm reassuringly, "Rx, and I''ve got this."Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Hannah and | headed out, with Larkin already waiting by the car.


    Hannah shot him a shy, beautiful smile, which he returned with a nce, unswayed by her charms.


    We got into the car and sped off from Serene Garden Homes.


    At the vi, after quizzing the guard, | learned that Jan had indeed been returning daily.


    | held off on entering and called Dalton at CID instead, sharing the clues we found from the incident on Seabreeze Boulevard


    and informing him that Jan was currently inside. | sent him the vi¡¯s location and then proceeded inside with Hannah and


    Larkin.


    As we opened the door, a pungent smell of alcohol hit us. The living room was a mess, worse than when I''dst seen it, utterly


    trashed.

 Chapter 553

    Chapter 553


    The moment | mentioned the possibility of knowing something, his head snapped up, and he locked eyes with me like a


    drowning man grasping at a lifeline, "What do you want to know?


    ¡°When did you find out the child by my side was Zora¡¯s?¡± | asked, my tone even, unreadable.


    He stumbled over his words, his mouth opening and closing, but nothing came out.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t know, did you?¡± | took a step towards him, my disdain for Jan crystal clear.


    His head drooped, guilt written all over his face.


    ¡°Does anyone in your family know where the child is?¡± | pressed further.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°| really don¡¯t know,¡± Jan blurted out defensively, ¡°It was muchter when | found out Zora swapped the kid.¡±


    It seemed Jan was genuinely clueless. It was Hazel¡¯ who knew the child¡¯s whereabouts.


    That meant the people looking for the kid were Jerome''s men. | was certain Hazel would have told Jerome because he was


    always Hazel¡¯s rock.


    But who was behind the child¡¯s disappearance?


    ¡°Did Zora ever mention where the child might be?¡± | asked, holding onto a shred of hope with yet another question.


    ¡°She never told me a thing. That¡¯s how she controlled me with our son. There are things | never wanted to do, but she¡¯d always


    threaten me with him. But...¡±


    ¡°Our son? Do you think you''re worthy?¡± | challenged him with a stare.


    | turned away to collect myself and then slowly faced him again, ¡°Who was behind the kidnapping on the night of the victory


    party?¡±


    ¡°| don¡¯t know.¡± he insisted.


    No sooner had Jan uttered those words than Hannah, unable to contain her fury any longer, delivered a swift kick to his jaw,


    ¡°You don¡¯t know anything, then what do you know?¡±


    Jan tumbled off the couch and onto the floor, his humiliation absolute. He scrambled up, clutching his jaw, and red at me,


    ¡°Aaliyah you bring your muscle into my house to beat me up? You''re nothing but a bitter shrew.¡±


    | couldn''t help butugh softly, looking at him with a detached amusement.


    ¡°Barging into my home uninvited, and you think you need a reason to get hit?¡± Hannah red fiercely at him, ¡°I¡¯m the one who hit


    you, so go ahead, take it to court. | told you before, every time | see you, you''re getting a beating. Did you think | was joking?¡±


    ¡°You lowly servant, you¡¯re nothing but a dog to bark at me.¡±


    Larkin, with a face dark as thunder, stepped up and delivered a gut-wrenching kick that left Jan gasping for air.


    ¡°Jesper got the three million dors Jessica raked in and ran away, and you didn''t know that either, did you? You''re a loser who


    only deserves to hide in the shadows and get drunk. | gave you a tform and made you the face of the Dawson family. And


    what did you do? Jerome built hiswork with Medsafe Liyah Inc. and traded your money for power. Jesper took yourst three


    million dors and didn¡¯t look back. Even Jessica knew to move three million dors to build her business. What about you?


    Jan, you''ve lost everything. No home, no business, just a trail of betrayal and abandonment. You lost your son and you still


    strut around proudly.¡±


    Jan, eyes bloodshot, spat a


    mouthful of saliva at Hannah and


    struggled to his feet, aqerneor?


    itle of bpaze unthta ing a swig,


    llyah, my downfall is all thanks to


    you. Want to find the kid? Forget


    about it. Even if | knew, | wouldn''t tell


    you. | want you to suffer with regret


    for a lifetime.¡± Please read the


    original content at .


    ¡°


    ¡°Jan...¡±


    His words ignited a fury within me, ¡°Are those the words of a human being?¡±


    ¡°Human?¡± heughed maniacally, ¡°Il am no human anymore...¡±


    With that, he swung the bottle at my head, but before it could connect, Larkin was upon him. A hand snatched Jan¡¯s wrist, and


    with a twist, a sickening snap echoed through the room.

 Chapter 554

    Chapter 554


    As soon as Jan saw Dalton, his entire demeanor crumbled like a house of cards. His bluster evaporated in an instant, and


    looking over at me with guilt shing in his eyes, he switched gears and tried a different tack, "Babe..."


    | shot him a look of pure disdain. "Get a grip, will you?"


    Dalton had never much cared for Jan, and now, taking in the disarray of the room, he gave Jan, who looked like a hot


    mess, a dismissive nce. It was clear as day what had gone down here.


    Even the cops trailing behind Dalton were taken aback by the scene inside the house.


    | wasn''t embarrassed in the slightest. Turning to Dalton, | said, "You couldn''t have timed it better. Despite the divorce, this guy''s


    been squatting at my ce. | changed the locks once, and he just busted them open again. Even had the nerve to trash the


    ce while | was out. | haven¡¯t had the chance to call it in yet, so let''s add that to the report, shall we?"Aaliyah, you are so mean,


    " Jan sneered, cradling his broken wrist for Dalton to see, "Sir, this is just a family squabble. She brought her fighter to break


    my hand, and she''s the one who''s going to make the first usation. Sure, | trashed the ce, but this is personal, right?"


    "The moment you divorced, it stopped being just family business. You''reing with me to the station for a thorough


    exnation," Dalton said, cutting him off without a hint of sympathy, "Take him away."


    "Sir, | need a hospital first. I''m hurt."


    ¡°We''ll get you sorted,¡± Dalton replied, his voice icy.


    | spoke up, "I''ll send over the evidence to your office. It''s pretty clear how he got his injuries."


    Hearing this, Jan gave me a venomous re, "You''ve got some nerve, Aaliyah."


    "Just getting started. We''ll settle up, bit by bit. No rush," | said calmly, standing my ground.


    His face ghostly pale from the pain and sweat slicking down his forehead, Jan was a far cry from his once cocky self. |


    couldn''t help but sneer internally. This was more like it.


    As the police escorted him out, he turned back with an evil stare and a malicious grin, "You''ll never find him!"


    Stunned, | watched as Jan was dragged away, a sinking feeling in my stomach.


    Did he actually know where the lost boy was?


    Two dayster, the ce finally weed its new owner.


    It cost me nearly a million, a good deal for the new owner. Even so, | wouldn''t let him take advantage of this house. The reason


    why I''d rather deal for less than a million dors is that | don''t want him to have a roof over his head and a way back.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Before handing over the keys, Logan''s people came to remove his equipment. | took onest look around the now spotless


    house, then handed the keys to the new owner. With that, a decade of memories were locked away forever.


    Stepping out, | felt reborn, ready to start anew.


    We got into the car, and | never looked back as we drove away from the neighborhood.


    Pulling out onto the main road, Hannah asked, "Are we heading home, Allie?"


    "Let''s take a spin around the city first, shake off the bad vibes," | instructed her softly.


    Gazing out the window, | realized I''d never truly seen this city, despite living here for ten years.

 Chapter 555

    Chapter 555


    Fidelia suddenly halted, lifting her head to look at me. In the next second, her face broke into a joyous smile, and she sprinted


    toward me, "Auntie Aaliyah!"


    ¡°Fidelia!" | extended my arms, and she darted into them, hugging me tightly.


    We embraced for a good ten seconds before she looked up at me, "Auntie Aaliyah, what brings you here?"


    | raised an eyebrow, a yful smile on my lips, but chose to fib, "Just wondering how you''ve been since you got back, and |


    thought I''d drop by."


    Her eyes immediately reddened, "Auntie Aaliyah, you''re so kind."


    She buried her face in my chest, a wave of unspoken mncholy washing over her.


    "Come on, and let''s go grab some grub," | patted her back, "What are you in the mood for?"


    Her face lit up with a brilliant smile, the gloom that had cloaked her moments ago vanished as if chased away by the sun.


    "Really?"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Absolutely!" | shrugged, "Why else would | be here?"


    ¡°Auntie Aaliyah, | thought you didn''t want to see me anymore.¡± A guilty expression crossed her face.


    "Don''t be silly, kiddo." |ughed, yfully pinching her cheek, "Give your mom a call, and let her know you''ll be homete,


    okay?"


    She grabbed my hand urgently, "Please, don''t..."


    | paused, scrutinizing her as she looked back at me with reluctance but determination.


    "Is it okay if we don''t tell her?"


    "It''s okay. Really, it is." She nodded earnestly, "It''ll save us a whole lot of questions if she doesn''t find out."


    | was genuinely surprised, but she quickly added, "She is not home."


    "Not at home?" | was incredulous, "Where is she then?"


    "She''s on a business trip." After Fidelia spoke, she avoided my gaze and tugged at my hand, "It''s fine. Don''t worry, Auntie


    Aaliyah, and I''ll handle it."


    Something stirred inside me. There was clearly more to the story between Fidelia and Cami.


    Cami on a business trip? As a pharmacy delivery person, that didn''t add up.


    | hurried her into my car and we settled into the back seats.


    Once Fidelia got in, Hannah greeted her, "Hey there, cutie pie."


    Fidelia chirped back with equal cheerfulness, a side of her | hadn''t seen before.


    "Hannah!" Fidelia leaned over the front seat, beaming at Hannah as they shared a happy exchange.


    "So, what''ll it be?" Hannah inquired.


    Fidelia nced at me, hesitantly suggesting, "Can we go to KFC?"


    "That''s perfect. Let''s hit the road. Buckle up." Hannah fired up the engine and we headed straight for KFC.


    | ordered her a feast her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    "You don''t have to get so much, Auntie Aaliyah, just a burger for me is fine," she said, her modesty tugging at my heartstrings.


    "Allie''s treat, eat up. Anything you haven''t tried now''s your chance," Hannah chimed in, making Fidelia giggle.


    Watching the two of them, | felt a sense of contentment and added a round ofrge sodas to our order.


    Fidelia eyed the spread like a kitten


    eyeing cream, muttering, "


    never lets me pqcore auth always


    IRA food. But she doesn''t


    comin when it''s instant noodles


    I''m sick of." Please read the original


    content at .


    We allughed, and Hannah joined in


    the fun, "Your mom''s just m


    excuses no torhay it Dunk food?


    Wiest ash smells this good? It''s not


    like you eat it every day." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Thatment clearly delighted Fidelia, "Exactly. She''s all high and mighty. You''re different, no tyranny with you."


    "Should | take that as apliment?" | teased back, enjoying the great vibe.


    ¡°Where did your mom go on her business trip?" | asked casually as | squeezed some ketchup onto Fidelia¡¯s te.


    She paused, clearly staggered for a moment.


    | looked at her, and she quickly responded, "I don''t know."


    "Isn''t your mom a delivery person for a pharmacy? Why would she need to go on a business trip?" | pressed on, sensing a lie


    between Fidelia and Cami.


    Seeing her hesitate, | didn''t want to


    ruin her appetite and qui ckly sath


    you d nawantits Rik ut it, that''s


    42 Be eat. Don''t let it spoil the


    mood." Please read the original


    content at .


    Fidelia picked up a drumstick and took another bite, though her mind seemed preupied.


    ¡°What''s up?" | asked, "Eat up, and we can talkter. | won''t ask anymore."


    She looked at me, as if making up her mind, took another bite, and then said, "Auntie Aaliyah, my mom lied. She''s not just a


    delivery person."

 Chapter 556

    Chapter 556


    | was caught off guard for a moment, turning my gaze towards her.


    Fidelia feared | wouldn''t believe her and nodded earnestly, "I''m not lying. The liar is my mom. She isn''t a delivery person."


    "Oh?" | managed, momentarily at a loss for words.


    Seeing my reaction, she doubled down, "I don''t know why my mom would lie, but she always reminds me not to ask about her


    business."


    ¡°How did you find out then?" | looked at her and handed her a drumstick.


    She took a big bite and said, "| overheard her on the phone. Sometimes, she won''t even let me listen in."


    Fidelia was chowing down on the drumstick, savoring it as if it had unlocked her ability to chatter, and it seemed there was no


    stopping her now.


    "You should probably not ask if your mom doesn''t want you to,¡± | advised her.


    "| didn''t ask. She takes calls behind my back, but | still know they''re about to work." Fidelia said dismissively, "She''s always


    talking about the hospital, mentioning surgeries and stuff."


    My curiosity piqued. Surgeries?


    "Doesn''t that mean her work is rted to the hospital?" | inquired.


    ¡°But she''s definitely not a delivery person." Fidelia insisted, "I''ve never seen her deliver anything.¡±


    Hannah and | exchanged a nce, and then | said deliberately in a casual tone, "It''s odd, isn''t it? There''s nothing shameful


    about delivering medications. Why would she hide that? Working to make a living is honorable, and there are many hospital-


    rted jobs. Nothing to worry."


    "She''s connected to the hospital, but she''s not delivering medicine. She''s lying when she says that." Fidelia was intent on making


    sure | had no misconceptions.


    ¡°Adults have it tough too, having to earn money to support the family."


    ¡°Actually, Auntie Aaliyah, my mom is rich." Fidelia looked at me with serious solemnity, "But she insists on keeping it a secret."


    "Why?" | was genuinely surprised.


    She just shook her head.


    ¡°How do you know your mom is rich?" Hannah asked nonchntly, "Have you seen it?"


    Fidelia nodded immediately, "Yeah. | saw it once when she brought home a bag full of cash. She reminded me right away that it


    was someone else''s and that | mustn''t tell anyone."This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    | was even more shocked. A bag full of cash?


    Seeing my disbelief, Fidelia continued, "I''m not lying, and it''s her who is. If it was someone else''s money, why would she bring it


    home? She was so secretive about it, making me promise not to tell.¡±


    "No wonder backpack is so fancy." Hannah chimed in, "Your mom must be quite capable to earn that much."


    Fidelia nodded, herrge eyes looking earnestly at Hannah, "But | just don''t understand why she would lie to me. She always


    told me what not to do. She even said | shouldn''t tell you that she is rich."


    | chuckled, "Yet here you are telling me."


    She gave a shy smile and said, "I trust you''re a good person and kind-hearted. Besides, you''ve helped us. Why should | deceive


    you? That would be immoral."


    While still nibbling, she pondered and then cautiously said, "| always wonder..."


    | prompted her, seeing her hesitate, "Wonder what?"


    "| often suspect maybe my mom has done something bad, which is why she makes me lie and keep secrets." She looked at me


    worriedly, "What if my mom has done something wrong? What should | do?"


    | ruffled her hair reassuringly, "Don''t overthink it. You won''t understand adult matters, just be a good kid, and that''s enough."


    "But, Auntie Aaliyah, I''m not just a


    good kid," Fidelia said, her ey: Sm


    brimmin ithytgars/ Saher ips


    podtird in distress. Her forlorn


    expression was truly


    heart-wrenching. Please read the


    original content at .


    | pinched her cheek lightly, "What''s this? Why the tears all of a sudden?"


    At my words, she felt even more aggrieved and began to cry in earnest, taking me aback.


    | nced at Hannah, who was also staring at Fidelia, dumbfounded.


    Quickly, | coaxed her, "Hey now no more tears. Come here to talk to me."


    | pulled her up into my embrace as


    Hannah handed me a tissue. | eset


    wiped the tears frgnp barehdek


    cpprtiririg #6 soothe her, "Stop


    crying, and you''ve still got food in


    your mouth. You might choke."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    She sobbed, chewed a couple more times, swallowed, and then, with a choked voice, she said, "Auntie Aaliyah, | made a


    mistake, and I''m scared!"


    "Tell me what you did wrong. There''s


    no need to be afraid, and I''m if


    you," | co fortegthit Gh looking


    intd\het eyes with sincerity,


    "Whatever it is, I''m here for you."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Her face was tear-stained as she looked up at me and stammered, "Auntie Aaliyah, will you really not be mad at me, not dislike


    me?"


    | shook my head solemnly, "Of course not. You can trust me. Opening up is the right thing. How could | be upset with you?"

 Chapter 557

    Chapter 557


    Fidelia''s eyes held abyrinth of emotions as she gazed at me, a mixture of doubt and confusion swirling within them as if


    questioning my words yet cloaked in bewilderment.


    | hastened to reassure her, "Fidelia, you don''t have to be afraid. Whatever you tell me today, | promise it won''t leave this room.


    Hannah can vouch for that."


    She nced at Hannah, who nodded solemnly, affirming, "I''ll vouch. We can both keep a secret."


    | added, "And if you''re in any trouble, I''ll help you out. Who''s there to fear?"


    With my words, Fidelia suddenly threw herself into my arms, sobbing uncontrobly.


    It was clear that a weight had been bearing down on her heart for quite some time, exining her usually somber demeanor.


    This wasn''t her nature after all.


    | didn''t say anything more, just held her tightly and gently patted her back, offering encouragement andfort.


    After a long while, she had cried herself out and, sniffing, shyly confessed to me, "I didn''t dare speak up because | was afraid


    they''d hit me."


    Her admission took me aback, and Hannah furrowed her brow in concern as she met my gaze.


    | immediately asked with grave seriousness, "Hit you? Who''s been hitting you? Did they really hit you?"


    Fidelia nodded through her tears, "Yes, they hit me on the head."


    Anger red in Hannah as she snapped, "Who did this? Tell me, and | will handle it."


    Fidelia looked at Hannah, still sniffling.


    "Don''t just look at me and | can throw a punch, ask Aaliyah if you don''t believe me." She gestured towards me, seeking my


    confirmation.


    | quickly nodded, "Absolutely, Hannah has got your back."


    Then, eager for more details, | pressed on, "When did this happen? Where? And who did it?"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    My barrage of questions seemed to assure Fidelia that | was genuinely upset about her being hit, and she felt safe enough to


    divulge a shocking secret.


    | never would''ve guessed that a casual outing for a bite to eat with Fidelia could unravel so many mysteries I''d longed to solve.


    After hearing Hannah''s and my assurances, Fidelia looked at me with determination and said, " Uncle Jesper had someone hit


    me.


    "Uncle Jesper?" | echoed in disbelief, "You mean Jesper Dawson?"


    She nodded firmly, "Yes, him."


    "Why would he do that? When did this happen?"


    "It was back in Silverdale City. Uncle Jesper called me out of the blue. He asked me to take photos of your house, Oldtown


    Avenue, the little courtyard, and the Wood Manor. He wanted detailed shots."


    | suddenly understood; the photos in Fidelia''s phone were requested by Jesper.


    Fidelia continued with a frown, "| asked him why, and he said he just wanted to see what your ce looked like and told me not


    to tell anyone, not Monique, and Probert."


    ¡°Are you sure it was Jesper?" | asked, still struggling to grasp the reality of the situation.


    It seemed he was indeed up to no good.


    Unable to wait, Hannah prodded, "And then what happened?"


    "Then he told me to go to the


    backyard and gave me a little button


    to ce in Grand a ales stud).


    askedyiatit inte and that''s when


    they hit me on the head for asking


    questions." Fidelia''s face paled as


    she recounted the event, evidently


    still terrified. Please read the original


    content at .


    "What kind of button?" Hannah inquired further.


    Fidelia mimed the size, "Like this, round and about this big."


    Hannah and | exchanged knowing looks, both surprised and indignant.


    With a scowl, Hannah mmed her


    hand on the table, "| kn st Woehihe


    owed upan silierddte ity, he was


    upto no good, using a child to nt a


    bug." Please read the original content


    at .


    Fidelia quickly interjected, her voice


    laced with anxiety, "At first, | sel


    want to do it, butyale esper found


    day araalthheatened to send someone


    to Grandpa Galen''s house to do it


    themselves. | got scared and just did


    it." Please read the original content at


    .


    "Where did you put it?" | asked, studying her closely.


    She fidgeted with her fingers, unable to meet my eyes, and murmured, "I hid it in the sofa cushion in the living room."


    She stepped forward, eager to exin, "Auntie Aaliyah, | didn''t want to do it, but | was scared they''d hit you, they were so


    menacing."


    "| understand. You''re not to me, Fidelia. You did the right thing protecting us." | praised her.


    But inside, a quiet rm bell was ringing.

 Chapter 558

    Chapter 558


    Ever since Gemma was shipped off to boarding school, there were times when some pretty heavy things were said in the living


    room.


    | looked straight at Fidelia and asked, ¡°Your Uncle Jesper is the cat''s eye on your contacts list, right?¡±


    Her eyes went wide as saucers as she shot back, ¡°How did you know?¡±


    | nodded, ¡°One night when | went to tuck you in, you were asleep with your phone in hand, and it was open to a chat with


    someone who had a cat''s eye as his profile picture.¡±


    She nodded furiously, ¡°Yes, that''s Uncle Jesper.¡±


    Hannah leaned in closer, her voiceced with disbelief, ¡°I can¡¯t believe it. Is he the man behind the cat''s eye¡¯? It all makes sense


    now. He must be the guy that Fidelia must know.¡±


    Fidelia added, ¡°Uncle Jesper told me not to tell anyone about our chats. He said to delete our messages right after reading them.


    He warned me to do whatever he said without question and to always reply. If | didn¡¯t, he said they woulde and take me


    away, along with Monique and Probert.¡±


    | was angry.


    What a scoundrel! None of the Dawsons were ever up to any good.


    Hannah, equally enraged, mmed her hand on the table, ¡°That rat! He¡¯s got some nerve to threaten a child.¡±


    | took a deep breath to calm down, then continued questioning Fidelia, ¡°So, the story about your grandma passing away, Uncle


    Jesper told you that?¡±


    Fidelia nodded, burying her face in her hands, ¡°I lied about hearing it from a ssmate because | was scared to say it was him.


    He told me grandma died because of you.¡±


    | let out a coldugh, ensuring Fidelia was watching, ¡°Do you believe what he said?¡±


    She shook her head vigorously, ¡°Not for a second. You¡¯d never do anything like that. Uncle Jesper had someone hit me, he''s no


    good. Auntie Aaliyah, you¡¯d never let anyone hurt me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, | wouldn''t,¡± | agreed.


    Hannah reassured Fidelia, ¡°He¡¯s full of it, telling such tant lies. Your grandma was driven to her grave by her daughter and the


    nanny.¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°And why did you sneak out in the middle of the night? Did it have anything to do with him? Did he tell you to do that?¡±


    Fidelia nodded eagerly, as if she found an ally, ¡°Yes. It was Uncle Jesper¡¯s idea.¡±


    ¡°So, it was him.¡± Hannah cursed without restraint.


    Fidelia continued earnestly, in a manner fitting her character, ¡°I lied that day. | told my mom | wanted to stay here to study, but


    she disagreed. | didn¡¯t dare argue. | thought it was no use getting angry if Mom said no.¡±


    | was suspicious, though. That day, Cami said it was Fidelia who had thrown a fit and run. Was it a coincidence, or was


    Cami covering for herself? Most likely thetter.


    As far as | knew, Cami and Jesper didn¡¯t keep muchpany.


    Hannah pressed on, ¡°What happened next?¡±


    Fidelia continued, ¡°Well, Uncle Jesper


    sent me a message to go to the


    cottage. So, | snuck pult\tg me¨¦dthehn


    there gheyaabe''me a tiny button


    camera to nt inside Wood Manor.


    They instructed me to do it secretly,


    without getting caught.¡± Please read


    the original content at


    .


    ¡°Why?¡± | prodded on purpose.


    ¡°They told me The Wood Manor had surveince, and | couldn''t let anyone spot me. So | lied, saying | ran away because | was


    mad at mom.¡±


    ¡°So, you crawled through the doggy door to avoid the cameras and went up to the attic. How''d you even know where all the


    cameras were?¡±


    ¡°When we yed at the Wood Manor,


    Probert, Monique, and | yed a


    game where ws pgdite Wioid being


    caygtaby the cameras. Probert won.


    He was the best at dodging them.


    Then he told us how to do it.¡± Fidelia


    recounted with ease. Please read the


    original content at .


    | felt a mix of frustration and pride. These kids of mine, how clever they were. But | didn¡¯t know if that was good or bad.


    They even turned avoiding


    surveince into a game. An onan!


    think, the badkheanitadnipted into


    AdsaL Snoric and managed to


    evade detection by trained


    professionals. Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah looked up to the heavens, the picture of exasperation. Then, she suddenly asked Fidelia, ¡°Where did you put that button


    camera?¡±

 Chapter 559

    Chapter 559


    As soon as Hannah lobbed the question into the room, we both leaned forward, our expressions a mask of anticipation, hanging


    on Fidelia''s uing words.


    ¡°After | slipped into the study, | crawled from the doorway, under the chairs, and then | ced it under the table," she spoke


    cautiously.


    The image of her tiny frame inching through the old family house sprang vividly to our minds, a feat only someone of Fidelia''s


    slight build could manage, considering the high thresholds that segmented the old manor.


    | nced at Hannah, who immediately dialed Ronan to report our findings.


    After hanging up, Hannah tousled Fidelia''s hair with a grin, "You''re a real lifesaver, kiddo. Ster job!"


    | turned to Fidelia, mentally retracing the unraveling events, "So, you''re saying you didn''t sneak out in the dead of night by


    choice, but Uncle Jesper coerced you into it?"


    She nodded, "Yeah after | did it, he told me to stay hidden in the Wood Manor. | was so scared, and | ran up to the attic. There


    was this tiny room, and | hid there. He said not toe out until no one could find me."


    ¡°And then Monique found me and brought me a sandwich," her voice trailed off. "Monique asked if | was mad at Mom. | just


    repeated what Uncle Jesper told me to say. Monique wanted me to stay in Silverdale City and go to school with her, so she didn''t


    tell you guys. Andter...¡± Fidelia nced at Hannah before continuing, "Hannah found us and brought us back home."


    | shook my head in disbelief, looking at Hannah, "We''ve beenpletely yed."


    "Did Jespere looking for you after you got back?" | prodded further.


    "He wanted me to find a way to stay in Silverdale City too, but | didn''t want to. Not because | didn''t want to, | was afraid he''d


    make me do more bad stuff. But | really did want to go to school with Monique and Probert. It was so confusing.¡± Fidelia''s face


    twisted with the conflict of her emotions.


    "| didn''t let you stay here because of your mom," | exined gently, "She''s had a tough life, clinging to the hope of a family with


    you. | was afraid she''d miss you too much. Only your mom has the right to decide on that, you understand?"


    "My mom..." Fidelia''s big eyes darted towards me, hesitant to continue.


    ¡°How has she been...?" | asked softly.


    Tears welled up in Fidelia''s eyes again, "She''s not that kind to me. She makes me kneel as punishment, and sometimes she hits


    me. She says if it wasn''t for me, her life wouldn''t be like this. It''s all my fault.¡±


    The revtion shattered my entire perception of Cami.


    How could she me Fidelia for her own choices? She was the one who couldn''t stay away from Jerome, and now she was


    pinning her misfortunes on her daughter Fidelia?This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    But in front of Fidelia, | couldn''t badmouth Cami.


    "She hits you? Makes you kneel?" | asked, trying to keep the shock from my voice.


    No wonder Fidelia knelt so readily when we were in Silverdale City. | had my suspicions that Cami had been physically


    punishing Fidelia.


    That was why | had snapped, "Nothing grinds my gears more than kneeling." Thatment must have struck a chord with


    Cami, considering the way she looked at me afterward.


    Turns out my hunch was right. She had been disciplining Fidelia in such a harsh manner.


    | had to reassess everything | thought | knew about Cami.


    ¡°And what about her rtionship with your dad?" | ventured a question that wasn''t suitable for Fidelia, but one | needed to ask.


    "It''s bad. Dad hardly everes


    home. He''s go anpther\tamily how,


    evan alittle trot er." Please read the


    original content at .


    | was stunned, quickly asking for rification, "How do you know that?"


    Fidelia pouted, "| overheard them one


    time. Dad came home, and t were


    arguing their reom¡®adout his other


    Tara eck and after that, Dad


    stoppeding home even more."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "Butst time your dad was at home?" | recalled her mentioning a video call with her dad.


    "Yes, that''s true. He was home, and Mom even let me video chat with him."


    Astrange premonition twisted in my gut, a sense that something wasn''t adding up.


    Cami had always yed ignorant with me, iming she was clueless about everything.


    Even when it came to matters


    reported cM Cami would oT


    wean intajn chat Hewes


    ly in en dark. But now, | was


    sertair she knew it all, as clear as


    daylight. Please read the original


    content at .


    So why would she lie to me? What was she hiding?

 Chapter 560

    Chapter 560


    It seemed that Cami was quite the mastermind, and I''d been utterly oblivious, never suspecting her.


    | looked at Fidelia and asked, ¡°So, where has your mom jetted off to this time for work? Do you know that?¡±


    Fidelia shook her head and said softly, ¡°I really don¡¯t know, but she said it would be for several days. Told me to fend for myself


    and focus on my studies.¡±


    My heart went out to Fidelia. She was just a kid, and yet Cami could leave her to take care of herself. What kind of huge deal


    was she handling that she had to leave for days on end?


    ¡°Aren''t you scared being home alone?¡±


    ¡°I''m used to it. My mom has been going on trips since | was really little,¡± Fidelia murmured, her voice so faint it was


    heartbreaking.


    | gently rubbed her back and asked, ¡°Does she leave you alone often?¡±


    She looked at me, seemingly weighing her answer.


    Quickly, | changed tack, ¡°Is it that your mom told you not to tell? It''s okay, and you don¡¯t have to answer. I¡¯m just concerned about


    you. Next time, if she can¡¯te back for a while, you can give me a call, and I''ll take you in. It''ll be our little secret, and you


    don¡¯t have to tell your mom.¡±


    This time she shook her head firmly, ¡°I can¡¯t. She video calls me every night. If she finds out I''m not at home, it wouldn''t be okay.¡±


    | let out a low sigh, realizing that this was amon urrence for Fidelia or Fidelia wouldn''t have answered me like that.


    Hannah suddenly asked Fidelia, ¡°Does your mom bring you little presents when shees back from her trips?¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Fidelia nodded and looked at Hannah, ¡°Sometimes she does, and sometimes she doesn''t.¡±


    Hannah immediately followed up, ¡°Can you show your aunt what presents she¡¯s given you?¡±


    Fidelia smiled and nodded, ¡°Sure, we can connect on WhatsApp and I''ll show you.¡±


    But then she added with caution, ¡°But you can¡¯t follow me home because we have cameras.¡±


    | was even more astonished. Was Cami this cautious?


    ¡°Not even to see me?¡± | asked.


    She stared at me and shook her head again, stammering, ¡°No, she doesn¡¯t want me to be in touch with you on my own.¡±


    At her words, my heart sank. Why was Cami wary of me too?


    ¡°And what if something happens to you when she¡¯s not home? What would you do?¡± | asked, pretending to be deeply concerned.


    ¡°She left me a number to call for emergencies only. | must never call unless it¡¯s really important.¡± Fidelia exined cautiously.


    ¡°Anumber?¡± My spirits lifted, but | kept myposure as | asked, ¡°Have you ever called it? Is ita man or a woman?¡±


    She shook her head, ¡°I¡¯ve never called. There¡¯s never been an emergency, and if | called for no reason, my mom would be mad


    when she got back.¡±


    ¡°Could you tell me that number?¡± | asked, ncing at Hannah, who nodded with understanding.


    After a moment''s hesitation, Fidelia recited a number, clearly memorized well.


    | saw Hannah quickly tap the number into her phone.


    | was floored by the sheer volume of information. | had seriously underestimated Cami.


    Fidelia looked uneasy as she double-checked, ¡°You can really keep a secret, right?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely! | keep my promises.


    From now on, you can gemectanig |


    yinieg, ard Keep it under


    yoleciit | assured her with a sincere


    look in my eyes. Please read the


    original content at .


    ¡°Also, when your mom¡¯s not home,


    feel free to call me. If I¡¯m in


    Goldenvale Tost lL gorae ond We


    erapaaindis: eat, hang out,


    whatever you want.¡± And another


    thing, I''m no longer with the Dawson


    family,¡± | emphasized. Please read


    the original content at


    .


    ¡°Did you and Uncle Jan get a divorce?¡± Fidelia asked for confirmation.


    | nodded without any intent to hide it, ¡°Yes. Who told you?¡±


    She timidly replied, ¡°I heard it from Monique.¡±


    ¡°What...who said that?¡± | could hardly


    believe ¡°aaa ear paheatrating up


    tO ynyanirout Please read the original


    content at Bramanovcorl

 Chapter 561

    Chapter 561


    To be honest, my stomach did a nervous flip when | heard Fidelia''s answer.


    "It was Monique who told me," Fidelia said with a serious look on her face.


    "What exactly did she say to you? Did she look upset?" My heart raced. | hadn''t even had the chance to break the news to them,


    and she was already in the know.


    | felt like | was losing control of the situation. After all, my kids were sharp as tacks and slippery as eels.


    Fidelia''s gaze was uncertain as she shook her head, "She said you and Uncle Jan got a divorce. Then she asked me if it


    meant that she didn''t have a home anymore if you and Uncle Jan would never be under the same roof?"


    Monique¡¯s perspective on divorce tugged at my heartstrings.


    ¡°Auntie Aaliyah, is what Monique said true? | don''t understand either." It was clear that Fidelia felt upset by the news, "But why


    do you guys have to get divorced? Is it because you don''t want to be together anymore? Does that mean my mom and dad


    might get divorced too?"


    | was at a loss for words, not sure how to respond.


    Cami had indeed confided in me that she was considering it.


    Seeing my silence, Fidelia snuggled closer, "Anyway, | feel like they don''t love me whether they''re divorced or not. | don''t care."


    "Did Monique say she didn''t care either?" | asked quickly, a hint of urgency in my voice.


    | was worried. Among the two older kids, Monique was the tough cookie, while Probert was my little guardian angel, always


    looking out for me. | felt that with him, things wouldn''t be too bad.


    After a moment''s thought, Fidelia said, "The first day she told me, she seemed really sad. But by the next day, she said she had


    come to terms with it. She figured that everyone has to grow up, and all she had to do was to take good care of Oldtown Avenue,


    to be the princess of Oldtown Avenue. She also said she was on your side."


    "Really?" | felt a surge of happiness, "Did she say why she chose to be on my side?"


    "She said that a mom is a woman, and women need to be taken care of. She felt that when ites to caring for them, you did


    more than Uncle Jan. She called you capable and responsible."


    My eyes misted over, warmed by the thought that Monique saw me in such a light. She really was growing up.


    "What else did she say?"


    "She also mentioned that when you were sick, you couldn''t take care of them, and once you got better, you were super nice to


    her and Probert. Probert and she agreed they need to take good care of you. And they saw the news, the inte is all saying


    that Uncle Jan made a big mistake, the unforgivable kind. Monique said if Uncle Jan did wrong by you, they would do


    wrong by him to even the score. Probert also said they still have their grandma and grandpa, and they are better educators than


    the Dawsons, knowledgeable and not like the Dawson folks, who only know how to curse."


    "All this came from them?" | sniffled.


    "Yeah, Probert agreed, saying he''ll take care of us in the future."


    | smiled, feeling a sense of pride and


    relief. My kids were clinleraintg) Tt 00


    seemed li Ines (6 have a


    Heakt-ebtheart with them once we got


    back to Silverdale City. Please read


    the original content at


    .


    "Auntie Aaliyah, does it mean my


    parents should get divorced too since


    my dad has a prow ind fe


    prowaBiyloves me even less? But |


    don''t have nice grandparents as


    Probert does, and only he says he''ll


    take care of me." Please read the


    original content at .


    Fidelia''s words were filled with sorrow.


    | wrapped my arms around her,


    patting her back, "Sweetheart, you''re


    only truly strong when you can stand


    on your own two feet. No one can


    stay with you forever, but Probestis\


    right. If h says @iiske tare of you,


    heWil? o don''t be afraid. Having


    siblings means you have support,


    and that''s something you can count


    on. You''re their big sister, and you


    need to be strong too, to protect your


    little brothers and sisters. And of


    course, they''ll protect you. One day,


    you''ll work together and seed


    together. And their grandparents are


    just as much yours. Do you think


    Grandma and Grandpa are good to


    you?" Please read the original content


    at .


    "They''re great. They really like me." Fidelia''s smile was adorably goofy.


    | countered, "Then what''s there to worry about?"Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    With that, Fidelia''s smile returned, and | couldn''t help but let out a pure chuckle.

 Chapter 562

    Chapter 562


    When | dropped Fidelia off, she got out of the car blocks away from her ce, waving goodbye with a lingering sadness. |


    signaled for her to hurry home.


    | watched as she looked back at us every few steps, even turning for onest nce before rounding the corner. Only then did |


    nod to Hannah to drive away.


    In the car, Hannah said, "Allie, her words are very informative. It looks like Jesper''s really stirring the pot."


    | felt a heavy sigh escape me and chuckled in self-deprecation, "Seems I''ve got it in for the Dawson family. It''s like a feud


    spanning lifetimes, relentlessly following me into this one, each blow cutting deep."


    Hannahughed along, "It is buying a lifetime''s worth of deep-seated grudges. So, what''s our y now? Head back to Silverdale


    City?"


    "Let''s decide once we''re home."


    ¡°Ronan said to leave those two items be for now, but he''s clued in Galen and everyone at Wood Manor. Looks like Fidelia wasn''t


    lying," Hannah ryed Ronan''s message.


    | fretted, "Now I''m worried about what they might have heard. If Fidelia keeps mum, we''re screwed. That was a close shave.


    Thank goodness we caught up with Fidelia."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Allie, you are so kind." Hannah smiled, "It''s like divine intervention. Jesper''s ns are doomed to fail."


    "It seems he''s in cahoots with Mason Wood."


    We sped back to Serene Garden Homes. Everyone was there. As | walked in, Hannah made a beeline for Logan, "Two things!


    This phone number needs to be traced as much as possible. It belongs to someone Cami trusts to get stuff done, a key yer


    for sure.¡±


    Hannah jotted down the number on a piece of paper and handed it to Logan. It was the number Fidelia had mentioned earlier.


    ¡°And the second thing,¡±


    "Stop!" Logan interjected, "At least let me in on the full story, will you? What¡¯s the rush?"


    We bothughed and recounted the recent events in detail, not leaving anything out.


    Then, | addressed Logan directly, "| need you to look into that new pharmaceuticalpany Cami mentioned. She lied about


    delivering meds, but ording to Fidelia, that''s not the case. | have a hunch Cami knows their operation well.¡±


    Ronan added, "We really overlooked Cami. Fidelia mentioned surgery, and that''s intriguing.¡±


    "It''s odd. Someone as reclusive as her amassing a fortune? Surprising," | admitted my thoughts.


    ¡°Right,¡± Hannah agreed.


    "Sure, there are quiet millionaires, but Cami doesn''t fit the bill. Also, could she be connected to Jesper? Their stories matched


    too well the day Fidelia went missing. Coincidence? But would she watch a stranger harm Fidelia? It''s illogical." | mused aloud.


    "That''s not hard to exin. In certain situations, there''s only one effective tactic avable," Ronan rationalized, an exnation |


    had to ept forck of a better one.


    Suddenly, something else crossed my mind, "Ronan, why didn''t you want us to remove the bug?"


    "We can''t touch it yet. Their intentions are unclear, and it''s still useful. They want to know our moves, so let''s feed them some."


    "You mean to use it to send messages." | immediately grasped Ronan¡¯s n that he wanted to turn their strategy against them.


    Ronan''s lips curved into a smirk.


    As we were talking, Catherine strode


    in. | was surprised seeing her: Wasn''t


    ii sed BAYT in


    ie ale City? What brought her


    back so soon? Please read the


    original content at .


    She brightened up the moment she saw me, rushing over, "Allie, | heard you moved in here, so | jet off to get here as quickly as |


    can.


    Her words confirmed she knew about this ce.


    Logan gave her a sidelong nce


    and teased, "Jerk off? Can yqstt |


    j exaggerating? ou''ll turn into


    Aa yore stock if you keep this up."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Catherine''s cheeks flushed, "What are you talking about? Can''t you show some decorum?"


    She snuck a nce at Ronan, conscious of the other man present.


    | couldn''t help but chuckle, feeling my face warm up too.


    To deflect from the awkwardness,


    quickly pulled out my phone


    showed he ba phosolSeMason, "Cut


    tha pate and we''ve got serious


    business. You just arrived in time. Do


    you know this guy?" Please read the


    original content at .


    She took my phone, nced at it, and said without hesitation, "What''s there to know? That''s Mason."

 Chapter 563

    Chapter 563


    | looked at Catherine with utmost seriousness, "Take a good look before you say anything more.¡±


    Catherine brought her phone closer to her face, examining it closely, "It''s definitely Mason, no doubt about it. He put on a lot of


    weight. Where''d you dig up this photo? Isn''t he supposed to be locked up?"


    "Who told you he got locked up?" | pressed her for an answer immediately.


    Without hesitation, Catherine replied, "| heard it from my dad. Everyone on Oldtown Avenue knows. They say the day they


    nabbed Mason, and it went down right there on Oldtown Avenue. There''s no mistaking it. He got mixed up in some bad stuff, and


    they took him down with no questions asked. How did we end up with such a rotten apple in Oldtown Avenue?"


    | turned to Hannah, "Your worries are unfounded now. That''s Mason for sure."


    Logan chimed in, "| got something from back home in Adkins too. Turns out Adkins has been missing for years. He left after trade


    school to try his luck down South and never came back. Vanished without a trace. Check this out."


    After saying that, Logan activated his tablet, tapped on an image, and passed it around to us.


    Catherine and | leaned in to look. At first nce, | was taken aback. The person in the photo bore a striking resemnce to


    Mason, and it was like looking at a skinnier version of him.


    ¡°Holy smokes, that''s uncanny," Catherine eximed.


    | scrutinized the picture a bit longer, then shook my head, "No, it''s not him. His smile doesn''t have Mason''s wicked edge. | know


    Mason too well.¡±


    Ronanmented in a subdued tone, "Looks like we''ll have to dig deep to find out how he got out."


    Logan nodded, "Word from the prison is that Mason''s in jail, as guilty as theye. Whatever he confessed to isn''t enough to


    land him on death row. At this rate, he might just waltz out eventually."


    Ronan''s expression darkened at Logan''s words, but he kept his thoughts to himself.


    Ronan was much moreposed these days, not the lively one we knew back in the day.


    But we all understood what Logan was getting at.


    So, we were all pretty steamed, but there was also a hint of helplessness.


    Seeking to lighten the mood, Catherine changed the subject, "Any news about the kid?"


    Her question just reopened my wounds.


    Hannah shot her a re, but Catherine was undeterred, "What are you ring at me for? Can''t | ask a question? How could the


    Dawsons pull such a stunt? Now we''re in a fine mess. Zora and Hazel, the two who knew everything, are pushing up daisies,


    and Jan is still in the dark. How and when was the baby switched? We need to know."


    | understood Catherine''s frustration. She''d been like a sister to me all these years, and it was hard for her to ept what had


    happened.


    ¡°Always bringing up the elephant in the room," Logan grumbled.


    | cut Logan off before he could continue and exined to Catherine, "My baby must have been switched at the hospital. |


    remember, aftering home, | couldn''t stay awake, which is why my youngest son didn''t have a celebratory party.


    Zora was in charge of taking care of


    the baby, and | was drugged into a


    stupor. | couldn''t have noticeText content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    switch. | 90 ontisPit ni I''d


    Tear asleep eating. Then, less


    than five monthster, Hazel bought


    that house. What happened in those


    four to five months, only Zora and


    Hazel knew, and now there''s no way


    to find out." Please read the original


    content at .


    Logan didn''t want to hear it and said, "No way to find out? It''s just a matter of time."


    | managed a wry smile, "But what | need is my child back by my side. Nothing else matters."


    "Those two got what they deserved." Catherine fumed, "Could Hazel and Zora have been in cahoots?"


    | shook my head and sighed, then


    looked at Logan, "I''ve though


    cores kpcoonWineed azel


    Revenant vantage of the situation. It


    definitely wasn''t a conspiracy with


    Zora." Please read the original


    content at .


    "Why do you think that?" Catherine inquired.


    "All signs point to Zora being


    unaware once the baby was in


    Hazel''s Ey ane) repels why Would


    Haveloite itr ora''s ear in the end?


    The key question is how Hazel found


    out about Zora''s switch and took


    over." Please read the original


    content at .


    ¡°No wonder. When | heard about this, | thought, how could you not notice your own child being reced? You must have been


    really out of it." Catherine teased me.

 Chapter 564

    Chapter 564


    | was feeling so lost and helpless, wondering who could ever understand the turmoil inside me. If only | had been a little more


    aware, a little more present, how could such a tragedy have ever urred? And now, they questioned how | could lose my child


    and how | could fail to recognize my child.


    And where was | to turn for answers now? The involved were six feet under. Who was left to argue my case?


    Logan''s phone rang twice before he answered it swiftly, listening intently without a word.


    After hanging up, he turned to me and said, ¡°Looks like Cami did work a short stint at that new pharmaceuticalpany, but


    she was out of there after just a month.¡±


    ¡°Dig into this Cami,¡± Ronanmanded with resolve, ¡°Dig deep.¡±


    Hannah''s phone started chiming incessantly, and she quickly pulled it out to check.


    Her eyes widened with the kind of discovery she''d think was a goldmine, and she started scrutinizing the screen.


    Then she walked over to where | was sitting and handed me the phone. ¡°Allie, check this out. Fidelia just sent these over. All gifts


    Cami brought for her.¡±


    | took the phone and scrolled through an odd collection of dolls, toys, hair essories, and carved trinkets.


    ¡°What in the world are these? You think they¡¯re fun?¡± | asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Show them to Ronan,¡± Hannah insisted.


    | passed the phone obediently to Ronan, who nced at it and began swiftly swiping through the images, his brow furrowing


    ever so slightly.


    | leaned in, ¡°What''s up? You recognize something?¡±


    "Some of them are from Southeast Asia."


    ¡°How can you tell?" | leaned over to look at the screen and asked.


    ¡°See here,¡± Ronan looked over his shoulder at me, his eyes extremely tender, and his wrist moved in my direction, and he


    began, pointing to a small bracelet on the screen, ¡°These beads and tiny animal carvings are made of ivory. Very distinctive.¡±


    He scrolled to a round, apple-shaped box, ¡°This one''s bamboo, but the carvings are all Southeast Asian style. And this incense


    holder, even more distinctive...¡±


    | was dazzled by the array, but with Ronan¡¯s guidance, it all made sense.


    Yet, | was taken aback, ¡°So, you¡¯re saying Cami¡¯s work trip might have been to...¡±


    | couldn''t bear to finish the thought. It seemed far too coincidental and improbable.


    Just then, my phone began to ring. It was Irving.


    | raised an eyebrow, gave Ronan a nce, and whispered, ¡°Irving.¡±


    Then | answered, ¡°Hello?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Wilburn, | hear you''re back in Goldenvale Town. Why no word? | would''ve rolled out the red carpet for you.¡± Irving''s voice


    feigned warmth like we were old buddies who hadn''t caught up in ages.


    ¡°Mr. Bradlee, you''re too kind. Goldenvale''s my home turf. What''s there to roll out the red carpet?¡± | replied, my tone casual but


    my mind racing at how news traveled so fast.


    Laughter from a woman echoed


    through the line, and sogn Olivia¡¯g 1 \


    ameshiasdh falivah, long


    Rigel see! Recognize who this is?¡±


    Please read the original content at


    .


    ¡°Mrs. Bradlee, you crack me up. As if | couldn''t tell it''s got to be you. Who else would be hanging around Mr. Bradlee?¡± | quipped


    back.


    Olivia''sughter grew louder, ¡°Aaliyah,


    do mea solid, will you? It''s been


    ages. Let me treat stra


    hoypecepoked HSai\I''m dead serious


    here. You''re one of the few in


    Goldenvale Town | truly admire. I''ve


    been dying to be your friend.¡± Please


    read the original content at


    .


    Her honesty was disarming. It would''ve been almost pretentious to refuse, so | agreed, ¡°Sure! Let''s catch up.¡±


    The joy on the other end was


    paluaele) ¡°| knew you ie the eal \


    sei aliyeb, Ising y u said |


    nets get her? That depends on


    who it is.¡± Please read the original


    content at .This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, more directly to me, ¡°If you don''t mind, how about my ce? I''ll whip up some of my signature dishes. How does that


    sound?¡±


    ¡°I''d be honored. Just name the time,¡± | responded, thinking it was a perfect opportunity to glean some information.


    ¡°Why wait? How about tonight? I''ll start prepping, and you juste on over,¡± she replied cheerily.


    ¡°6 o''clock sharp then. Send me your address. I''m not even sure where you''re living these days.¡± | reminded her.


    ¡°You got it. I''ll text you right away. See youter.¡± Olivia ended the call with a cheerful tone.

 Chapter 565

    Chapter 565


    Just two minutes after hanging up the phone, she sent me a location.


    Conveniently, it was close by.


    | mentioned to Ronan, "Irving invited me out for dinner tonight."


    Ronan nodded, "Looks like he''s trying to pry your bottom line. You might want to do some digging."


    | immediately grilled Ronan with a few key questions to prevent any slip-ups.


    After thinking it over, Ronan shared a number with me, and | couldn''t hide my surprise. "That high?"


    "Don''t you want to make a killing on this house?" he said, his gaze loaded with meaning.


    | was ted. "Absolutely! I''ll fleece him, no mercy."


    We shared a knowing smile, and inwardly | chuckled. This was going to be a wicked game.


    Before | left, | asked Catherine to stay back to chat more in the evening. Then, | went out with Hannah, making sure to bring a


    gift the first time | stepped into Irving¡¯s home.


    Timing it perfectly, | headed straight for Irving''s ce.


    Approaching the gatedmunity of the Bradlee family, | could see a figure from afar.


    Hannah saw it too and said with a bit of shock, "He came out quick."


    | just raised an eyebrow and smirked.


    Hannah looked at me, puzzled, "Allie, don''t tell me you knew he''de out?"


    | casually replied, "| didn''t pass along his number to Dalton, so of course he had to step out. | wanted him to cool his heels for a


    couple of days, just to sell the house peacefully. How can he feel the world''s warmth and woes from inside? He needs to taste


    this vor. I''ve said it before, | want him to be miserable. | can''t go back on my word now, can |?"


    Hannah looked at me with admiration, "No wonder he came out so fast."


    "It''s easy to get him back in jail, but that would be letting him off too light."Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Exactly! Allie. You''re killing it, and I''m in awe."


    "Did you check on the Dawson family''s house like | asked?" | said, observing the pacing figure in the distance.


    ¡°Of course, it''s in Hazel and Farley''s names. So it hasn''t been affected. | heard Farley''s living it up now. He''s got a whole


    penthouse to himself and asionally brings home some maturepany. Hazel''s passing set him up nicely." Hannah said with


    disdain.


    | scoffed, "Hazel never imagined she''d die before Farley, leaving all she worked for to some young thing. All her efforts were


    given away to others."


    Hannah chuckled mischievously, "Yeah, and Farley is truly living it up now, ying the groom every night.¡±


    | alsoughed, "Farley has suffered Hazel''s anger all his life, and Hazel is dead, he is crazy happy."


    Hannah gestured towards Jan at the gate, "He got nowhere to go. He''ll probably have to move back in with Farley."


    "Just watch. Those two will turn on each other soon enough." | said with amusement.


    "If they don''t, I''ll find a way to make it happen," Hannah said through clenched teeth.


    ¡°Have you found the right person for our n?" | quickly asked.


    "Got someone. Don''t be fooled by her


    gender, she''s into everything,


    drinking, gamblin yeugmei :


    shg''s a lodker {do?Some of these


    maturedies were always hunting


    for old men to fleece." Hannah''s


    description had me struggling not to


    laugh. Please read the original


    content at .


    "Then be strategic. Don''t make it


    obvious, just give her a little


    the right rgctjqrybetlensure


    Ja an''t settle down too


    comfortably." | advised. Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Hannah hesitated, so | added a hint, "Get her to slip Farley a love potion, shake up Jan''s peace. Whatever happens, it''ll be a


    show."


    Hannah caught on and doubled overughing.


    As our car pulled up, we saw Jan loitering at the gate, seemingly waiting for Irving.


    Irving really had some nerve, and he wouldn''t even let his old buddy Jan through the door. Out of sight, out of mind.


    Jan, oblivious to our approach, was pacing frantically by the gate.


    He clearly wanted in, desperate to see Irving, but seemed out of options.


    Hannah, ever the mischief-maker,


    quietly drove up behind him,


    honked the orn douaty, aytan


    jddb¨¦d in shock, darting to the side


    and looking back in horror. Please


    read the original content at


    .

 Chapter 566

    Chapter 566


    Our car rolled up to Irving''s ce with the kind of swagger. When our eyes locked, | saw his cocky expression falter, just for a


    second.


    We zoomed past him, and at that moment, Jan was left in the dust, looking like aplete fool.


    Gone was his usual confident stride, the air of a man who had the world at his feet.


    | bet when he saw me, | was the picture of indifference, still sitting on my pedestal.


    | was born with this aura. And him? He was just a fool. | wanted him to know that without me, he was nothing. Even a fart has


    some presence, but he? He had none.


    At the Bradlees'' doorstep, the doorbell chimed, and Irving himself came to greet us, his smile so wide it was almost grotesque,


    all teeth and no eyes, the sycophantic grin that was his trademark.


    Irving was a man of two faces. One was reserved for currying favor, full of obsequious charms and the constant scraping of


    bows. The other was a haughty mask he wore when he felt superior, as he looked down his nose with disdain.


    And sure enough, as we entered the yard, there was Nettie, back in Goldenvale Town, kicking a ser ball around the garden


    with her little brother Sammy.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    "Goodness gracious! Ms. Wilburn, you''ve arrived. What a rare treat. I''m overjoyed, and | never thought you''d ept our


    invitation.¡± Irving babbled on with his pleasantries.


    Seeing the toy in Hannah''s hands, he burst into even louderughter, "Sammy, look what Ms. Wilburn brought for you."


    At the sound of Irving¡¯s voice, his son Sammy stopped and turned around, a sneer on his face as he nced at the box in


    Hannah''s hands.


    Irving beckoned urgently, "Sammy,e here."


    | looked over and saw that Nettie''s cheeks were flushed from ying so long, and her white sports shirt was marked with


    numerous ball prints, the result of Sammy''s inurate kicks.


    As she nodded to us, Sammy casually kicked the ball, and it flew straight at her. | couldn''t help but let out a cry of rm.


    But it was toote, and the ball hit Nettie square in the face.


    She crouched down, clutching her face.


    Instinctively, | blurted out, "Dear, are you okay? Did it hurt?"


    But Sammy wasughing uncontrobly, even having the gall to say, "Nettie, are you an idiot? Don''t you know how to dodge? Do


    you want to y ser with me? I''ll y you to death."


    | felt a surge of anger and disgust. What kind of child was this? A spoiled brat.


    Irving, catching my disapproving look, shouted at Sammy, "Sammy, you and your mischief. Go and see if you''ve hurt Nettie."


    Sammy, with a smug look, retorted, "She''s made of y or what? A little knock and she breaks? She insists on ying, and she


    can''t handle it?"


    With that, he picked up the ball and aimed another shot at Nettie, taunting, "Can''t handle it, then don''t y. Stay away from me,


    and stop hanging around me like a bad smell.¡±


    | couldn''t help but nce at Nettie, suddenly understanding where those marks hade from.


    | felt a strange pang of sympathy. In Jta¡¯s eyes, she was the princess, the apple of her eye.


    | watched as Nettie, who had been


    ce down, slowl gloodup My


    caught, aval were drops


    bee on the front of her white


    soos shirt. Please read the original


    content at .


    She gave me a quick, flustered nod, then turned and ran towards the house, holding her nose.


    Sammy sneered and, without acknowledging me, strode back inside.


    | scoffed to myself, thinking that even as a son, he was ruined by Irving''s indulgence.


    Irving, with an awkward smile, turned to me helplessly and admitted, "He is spoiled."


    I just gave a smile, too speechless toment.


    Throughout it all, Irving hadn''t given


    Nettie a second nce, got event \\


    ing if she, Wa WE was Clear


    hew little he cared for her. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    It seemed Nettie''s ce in this


    household was indeed Sesieins


    and | could at helpblierem ember


    ¡°Bvlcal Woe It looked like Nettie


    had brought this on herself. Please


    read the original content at


    .

 Chapter 567

    Chapter 567


    | stepped into the Bradlee family''s grand foyer, where Olivia, with her apron tied neatly around her waist, emerged from the


    kitchen like the perfect homemaker, waving at me with a bright smile, "Allie, I''ve been looking forward to your visit. I''m just thrilled


    you could make it.¡±


    She then turned to Hannah, "And this must be..."


    Without missing a beat, | introduced her, "My sister, Hannah."


    ¡°Miss Hannah, a pleasure. Wee to our home. Allie and | are thick as thieves."


    Hannah, ever the mischief-maker, chimed in, "Mrs. Bradlee, we''ve actually met before."


    Olivia gave her another nce and chuckled, "Seems familiar indeed. My memory is like a sieve sometimes."


    Then she turned back to me, "Allie, why have you brought so many gifts? This is too kind of you!"


    "Well," | replied, "Sammy is a little boy, and | wasn''t certain what he''d like, so | decided to bring a variety.¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    My eyes briefly rested on Sammy sprawled on the couch.


    "Sammy, say thank you to Lady Wilburn." Olivia doted on Sammy, beckoning him with a wave of her hand.


    "Thanks, Lady Wilburn." Sammy stretched out the words before snidely muttering under his breath, "So manydies."


    Just then, Nettie emerged from the washroom, and Olivia gave her a quick once-over before gasping in mock horror, "Nettie,


    what happened to you? How did you get..."


    Nettie justughed it off and patted her face, covering a small bloodstain on her blouse, "It''s nothing, just a scratch.¡±


    Olivia''s concern felt like a bit of an act as she rushed over to Nettie, looking her up and down with exaggerated worry. Yet, it was


    somehow moreforting than Irving''s indifference.


    "Is this blood? How could you say it''s nothing? Did Sammy do this? Sammy, what have you done? Didn''t you see you''ve hurt


    Nettie? Apologize right now."


    Her face full of concern, she gently held Nettie''s face to inspect the damage, "You are going too far, Sammy."


    Irving interrupted with impatience, "It was an ident. Why make such a fuss when we have guests? Go upstairs, change your


    clothes, ande back down."


    With a dismissive wave towards Nettie, Irving''s annoyance was clear.


    Nettie quickly assured Olivia with a smile, "I''m really fine. It was an ident, no hard feelings. I''ll go change."


    After sharing a nce with me, she turned and ascended the staircase.


    Watching her slender figure retreat, | felt a pang of unease.


    Olivia''s gaze lingered on Nettie until she vanished upstairs, and then she turned to me with an apologetic smile, "Allie, sorry for


    the drama. Sammy is spoiled by Irving. Thankfully, Nettie is sensible, and never holds a grudge against him."


    She affectionately tugged at my arm, "Take a seat, Allie. When ites to children, daughters are just easier, so endearing and


    less trouble. Nettie, to be honest, is such a breezepared to Sammy."


    Irving, though, wasn''t pleased, "Son is important. What do you know? How dare you say he''s not up to scratch."


    Olivia wrapped her arm through mine, "Listen to him, always Sammy. He''s got it bad."


    Irving shot a nce at Sammy, "Enough about my golden boy Sammy. Is dinner ready?"


    Olivia quickly replied, "It''s been ready. We''ll eat as soon as Nettiees back down."


    Olivia was like the doting mother, and Irving was like the dispassionate stepfather.


    | mused with a sly smile. Irving certainly did raise quite a ¡°good¡± son.


    My gaze was drawn to Sammy,


    lounging on the couch p yirgcyith\


    d s igporia RNd; he held a


    d Nera) in the other a dart, jabbing


    it upwards in a way. Please read the


    original content at .


    He was really uneducated.


    Education started in the cradle, and surely even Irving understood that basic principle.


    We exchanged a few more words until the sound of footsteps descended the stairs, prompting me to look up instinctively.


    No one expected Sammy, sprawled


    on the couch, to suddenly sit pana:


    in front of everyanateieetullyunch


    tho Gatih is hand at Nettie, who


    had juste downstairs. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    "Stop..." | cried out instinctively, as the dart sped towards Nettie''s face.


    But in the blink of an eye, Hannah moved swiftly, raising her hand to catch the dart mere inches from Nettie''s face.


    As we were about to breathe a sigh


    of relief, Hannah, witho hesitation)


    flun the dat wa¨¦h Yowards Sammy


    such speed that | didn''t have


    time to react. Please read the original


    content at .


    Both Olivia and Irving cried out in shock.

 Chapter 568

    Chapter 568


    Even | was taken aback by Hannah''s stunt, so Irving who doted on Sammy like nothing else and Olivia were practically hoarse


    from shouting.


    With a soft thunk, the dart Hannah had flung hit the dead center of the dartboard Sammy was holding.


    The room fell silent as a grave.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Sammy stood there, dumbstruck, staring at the dartboard in his hands as if he''d turned to stone.


    Irving, meanwhile, was sweating bullets, and Olivia was a hair''s breadth away from lunging at Hannah with a vengeance.


    Nettie, who had been just as startled, had a flicker of awe sh in her eyes.


    | couldn''t help but scold Hannah gently, "Hannah!"


    That seemed to snap everyone back to reality.


    Olivia was the first to rush over, checking Sammy''s head, "You okay, kiddo? Didn''t scare you too much?"


    Clearly, she was not amused.


    Hannah just gave me a cheeky eyebrow raise, not a hint of remorse in sight.


    Irving, though displeased, still stered on a smile and took his time before finallyplimenting, "Ms. Hannah, that''s quite the


    throw."


    Once Olivia saw Sammy was all right, she turned back with a forced smile, "Well, Ms. Hannah."


    Hannah promptly came to stand by my side, looking up at me with feigned innocence, "| was just teasing Sammy."


    The next second, Sammy scurried over to Hannah, full of admiration but stumbling over his words, "How did you learn that? Can


    you teach me? Please?"


    "Nope." Hannah rejected him tly.


    Sammy wasn''t ready to take it for an answer and immediately frowned, "Why not?"


    "If | teach you, you''ll go throwing darts at Nettie? | never train students to target people." Hannah stated firmly.


    Nettie nced at Hannah, eyes brimming with respect before quickly hiding it away. But | saw it, clear as day.


    | wondered what was going on in Nettie''s head. She seemed to be sheathing all her sharp edges. But why was she content to


    stay in this ce that offered her no shred of love?


    Hannah''s blunt words left Sammy standing there, bewildered and a tad angry, but he held it in. He was angry, and it was high


    time we took the wind out of his sails.


    From the moment I came in, Sammy had been rubbing me the wrong way, and seeing him taken down a notch was oddly


    comforting.


    Olivia nced at me, then at Hannah, and despite being angry, she managed to get a grip on her anger, "Sammy, how many


    times do | have to tell you? Stop pestering Nettie. Looks like you''ve met your match now. Come on, and let''s eat. Dinner''s ready."


    Her words were an olive branch, and Irving quickly stepped in to wrap an arm around Sammy, protective-like, and with augh,


    ushered everyone to the table.


    Sammy didn''t pull any more stunts and quietly took his seat next to Irving.


    But his eyes kept darting back to Hannah, aplex mix of emotions ying out on his face.


    Olivia settled down next to me, and Hannah took the spot directly across from Sammy, ensuring he''d have to face her whenever


    he looked up. Nettie sat beside him, her interest in Hannah now inly evident.


    Olivia had prepared a seafood feast.


    It was clear, though, that the fancier dishes were takeout, not her handiwork. Only the boiled oysters and crabs seemed to be her


    doing.


    After the pleasantries, | dropped a seemingly out-of-cement, but it was intentional.


    "When | arrived, | saw Jan at the front door. Mr. Bradlee, aren''t you going to invite him in?" | mentioned casually.


    Irving''s face immediately took on an


    awkward tinge, "Well, he''s be ranan!


    wanting to go iqanstalia lcan''t


    Dodsi ia him with that now. He''s


    been at my ce, eating and drinking


    for days." Please read the original


    content at .


    | watched Irving with a silent,


    knowing smile, thinking to m self)


    ¡°What a | ad of pull! Gaya trad just


    SHES al and he couldn''t be


    living it up at Irving''s ce. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    What a hypocrite Irving was! He knew he kept betraying Jan.


    Irving continued, looking helpless, "I''ve told him straight up, but he''s pushing his luck, wanting me to foot the bill for his Australia


    trip."


    ¡°He''s set on going to Australia?" | scoffed inwardly, thinking Jan could dream about that next lifetime.


    "He''s had this n for a while, even


    bought a house there, or so he says.


    Ms. Wilburn, you''re sharp one,


    yoy getiterie''s dot legal troubles up


    to his neck. If | were to help him out,


    it would make me an essory to


    the crime. | can''t be part of


    something like that." Please read the


    original content at .


    He peeled a shrimp and ced it on Sammy''s te.


    Sammy kept sneaking nces at Hannah, clearly distracted and unsettled.

 Chapter 569

    Chapter 569


    Irving dabbed at his hands with a napkin and looked at me with a grin, "If I''m not careful, | might as well be his getaway driver.


    Wouldn''t | be digging my own grave?"


    | chuckled andplimented, "You''re sharp, Mr. Bradlee."


    ¡°Aaliyah, you''re making me blush. I''m neck-deep in trying to ink a deal with Vital[Axis Pharmaceuticals. Getting tangled up with


    him is like catching a falling knife." Irving spread his hands wide andughed, "Don''t take it to heart if | seem a bit cold."


    We bothughed, though | thought to myself, ¡°His cold is an understatement.¡±


    But | said, "Mr. Bradlee, you''re a man who knows the score. Having an eye for a project like VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals¡¯ is an


    honor for them. Elixir Pharma Limited going from a no-name drug maker to one of the industry giants is no fluke. It shows you''ve


    got smarts, ambition, skill, and a keen eye for the future. | can''t help but admire that."


    | wasn''t stingy with my praise.


    "So, | invited Ms. Wilburn over today for two reasons. One is to close the gap between us. And two, to clear the air about my


    longstanding ties with Jan," Irving said, the corners of his mouth twitching awkwardly.


    "Clear the air? There''s nothing to clear," | said, setting down my fork, "Your friendship with Jan doesn''t affect the business


    decision to partner with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. Business is business. I''m not petty. Just because you and Jan were tight


    doesn''t mean I''d refuse to work with you. Business is about capability, not past friendships."


    "That''s true. Of course, | trust in your magnanimity. But to be totally honest, my old connection with Jan was all about you,"


    Irving continued to bridge the gap between us.


    | kept quiet, letting him go on.


    ¡°Back in the day, | got to know him through your connection with Jta. | knew you first, and that led me to Jan. | really did


    want to team up with him properly this time, to ride the tailwind of the international conglomerate and do something big with


    VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. What a great opportunity! But look how it turned out..." He shrugged in exasperation.


    | believed him. Irving was the type who was always looking for a quick win. He wouldn''t hesitate to suck up to anyone or anything


    that could benefit him. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have made it to where he was today.


    But Jan didn''t have that solid foundation. He was too eager to show off before having a stable base, aiming for the stars too


    soon.


    "Mr. Bradlee, you might be a bit too eager. Such a big project isn''t something | can just nod through. What''s the matter? Losing


    your nerve?" | teased, taking a bite of the steak, "Elixir Pharma isn''t out of the race yet."


    Irving''s eyes lit up, and his smile broadened, "With your words of confidence, | feel reassured."


    "Sure, there''s a lot ofpetition, including international clients. But not many can meet all the criteria, especially when ites


    to production lines. That''s why VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals funded the project of VitaGlow Capsules ourselves. We''re testing new


    equipment from Germany and assessing the data.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Mr. Bradlee, opportunities like this are rare. Mr. Richardson doesn''tck funds. He''s got several clinical trials in his hands. He is


    ambitious and wants to dominate the market. If our production lines meet the standardspletely, then..." | suddenly paused, "I


    might be getting ahead of myself.¡±


    |ughed it off, pretending to have let something slip.


    By dropping that hint, | was sure Irving would get the point.


    ¡°Let''s not delve into that. To be honest, it''s not my call to make. | haven''t officially taken over Vital[Axis Pharmaceuticals yet, and


    the real power is still with my father and Mr. Richardson. | wouldn''t want to mislead you."


    After that, | changed the subject and began chatting with Olivia about other things.


    Irving nodded along, but | could tell his mind was racing.


    Hannah had barely touched her food and had already set her cutlery down. Nettie, ever observant, suggested, "Ms. Hannah,


    how about | apany you for a walk outside?"


    Hannah looked at me for approval, and | nodded.


    She got up, thanked Irving and Olivia, and went out with Nettie.


    Seeing them leave, Sammy


    immediately pushed away hie bee!


    stgoaliab, WHrdone eating"


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Olivia called out to him anxiously, "Sammy, sit down!"


    | quickly reassured her, "Don''t worry. Hannah won''t cause any trouble."


    Olivia forced a smile but still looked worriedly towards the door as Sammy dashed off.


    Irving gave her a quick, meaningful


    nce, and she said ey e wittoa 1


    S le JExqgpetrt@) bee to check on


    Sammy. He''s a handful." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    She said and hurried after him.


    As soon as she hurried out, Irvin


    lifted his ss towards |e, Sivan,


    lat pHa Atoast.¡± Please read the


    original content at .

 Chapter 570

    Chapter 570


    | clinked my ss against him, catching the twinkle in his eye that told me he was itching to spill the beans.


    Sure enough, after taking a swig of his beer, he locked eyes with me and beamed, "Now that the coast is clear, Aaliyah, can you


    give me the lowdown? I''m looking to make a move."


    | swirled the drink in my hand, giving him a silent, probing look before breaking into a chuckle, "Mr. Bradlee, you really put me on


    the spot here."


    Irving shed me a sly grin, "Come on, Allie, spill the beans. It''ll give me some peace of mind."


    "It''s not really my call, and honestly, I''m as in the dark about Mr. Richardson''s intentions as you are," | replied, then teased him


    with a yfully coy look, "But maybe..."


    | trailed off, my mind cautioning me as | watched the amber liquid dance in my ss, "The ball''s in your court now.¡±


    Quick to change the subject, he remarked, "Heard you sold your house? Shame to let go of such a prime spot.¡±Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    | was taken aback, cursing inwardly at his well-informed nosiness. The ink on the deal was barely dry, and he already knew. He


    was definitely keeping tabs on me.


    My reaction must have given Irving the impression that he''d struck a chord.


    |ughed at myself, "Gotta mark the asion somehow. A fresh start should look like one, right?"


    ¡°Absolutely! You''ll need a swanky new pad."


    | yed along, feigning insight, "You''re sharp as ever, Irving. But buying a house is a piece of cake for me."


    He bragged with a knowing smirk, "Well, Ms. Wilburn, given that you own the entire Oldtown Avenue, I''d hardly say you''re short


    on properties. But I''ve got my eye on a real gem."


    | could tell he''d been plotting this for a while.


    Curiosity piqued, | asked eagerly, "Where?"


    Irving''s smug look deepened, "I''ve been scouting for a while, but ady like you can''t be without a proper roost."


    "It''s been tough. I''ve seen a few ces, but nothing''s clicked," |mented, "So, where''s this spot?¡±


    "Golden Peak Town!"


    "Is it finished?" | inquired, already familiar with the ce. Hannah and | had driven past the new Hilltop Retreats development


    recently, and it was undeniable.


    "It''s sectional, and the upper part above Hilltop Retreats is done."


    "The upper part? | thought those sold out ages ago. Just the other day, | took Hannah there, and they said they were all gone." |


    replied skeptically.


    Irving''s confidence didn''t waver, "It depends who''s asking. If you''ve got your heart set on it, there''s always a way.


    "Really?" | eximed, thrilled, "! did fall for one ce, but let''s be clear that I''m paying for it myself."


    "Why stand on ceremony with me?"


    l insisted, "It''s important to keep things straight."


    ¡°Fine! You can pay for it yourself." Irving conceded, feigning defeat.


    | took a gulp of my drink, "Thanks in advance. Being without a home is a real drag, like a nomad with no sense of security."


    "Just like me, putting everything aside to focus solely on negotiating with VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals. I''m in the same boat, no


    guarantees," Irving confided.


    "That''s where your talentse into y. Bet values skill. Invest a bit more in your tech, and you''ll stand out," | said


    nonchntly, confident that Irving could read between the lines.


    With that, | reached my


    conversational limit and stoo ;


    eyes darting anqundlletiore adding,


    ainohy''s PureLife BioPharma is


    rising fast, a dark horse to watch."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    After a meaningful nce at Irving,


    whose expression gre seriquey\


    desert yeast geste we


    j lie others, "Olivia of yours really


    dotes on the kids." Please read the


    original content at .


    Irving had no choice but to follow as | headed out.


    As we walked, | asked about Nettie''s ns to stay or go abroad.


    Irving answered absently, "It can''t say for sure. Kids change their minds every day."


    "It''d be nice if she stayed. You''d have an extra pair of hands," |mented casually.


    "A girl needs a good partner," Irving replied nonchntly.


    | shot him a look, "Yeah. What a terrible marriage | had."


    He realized his gaffe and


    backpedaled, "No offense, a


    exceptional, Veyhad teh and


    poNe | family, and who''s to


    underestimate? We''re not in the


    same league." Please read the


    original content at .


    "| wouldn''t sell yourself short, Mr. Bradlee. Nettie''s quite a catch. With the right guidance, she could do wonders." | said pointedly.


    But Irving didn''t bite, steering clear of further discussion.


    Janice was right. Irving''s fatherly front was all for show. If Nettie chose to stick with the Bradlee family, it seemed like a rough


    road ahead.

 Chapter 571

    Chapter 571


    | had just stepped into the hall of the Bradlee estate, pausing at the threshold. Hannah was there, teaching Sammy the ins and


    outs of the pitch pot game.


    Nettie stood off to the side, hands buried in her jean pockets, her gaze fixed on the doorway from afar.


    As Irving and | emerged, she quickly looked away.


    Olivia was mysteriously absent. She had probably deduced that Hannah posed no risk to Sammy and had chosen to retreat


    indoors.


    "It''s gettingte, and | should head back," | said, my voice casual, avoiding Irving''s gaze.


    The trap was set, and now it was up to Irving to take the bait. Lingering would serve no purpose and certainly didn''t fit the


    persona I''d crafted for myself.


    | gave Hannah a wave. She arched an eyebrow at Sammy, said something to him, and then started walking over to me, still


    holding an arrow in her hand.


    Sammy called out, "We''re not done yet. You can''t leave now. Are you trying to chicken out?"


    Without even turning her head, Hannah tossed the arrow over her shoulder and clinked, itnded perfectly around the stake. The


    move was slick.


    Sammy''s face turned into a picture of dumbfounded awe.


    In the next second, he was in front of Hannah, puffing up his little chest and bargaining with me, "Can | have her? Tell you what,


    my dad will pay you."


    | shrugged, "No can do."


    "Why the hell not? She''s just a bodyguard. My dad can get you another, and she stays with us." He sounded so entitled.


    "Your dad got money to burn?" | asked, "But sorry, no deal. She''s my sister, not a bodyguard. And even bodyguards aren''t for


    sale."


    "There''s nothing money can''t buy, just name your price. I''ll have Irving pay you." He said haughtily.


    "Sammy, stop this nonsense," Irving scolded.


    Just then, Olivia emerged briskly with a tray of fruit, probably overhearing Sammy''s deration of war with me at the doorway.


    "Sammy," she said sharply, quickening her pace and turning to me, "Aaliyah, why are you outside? | was just bringing you some


    fruit for dessert."


    | nced back at her with a smile, "I''m full already. | was thinking of heading out early."


    "Why the rush? Let''s hang out a bit. It''s not every day we have you over. We haven''t had a proper chat yet." She pushed the fruit


    tray into Nettie''s hands as she spoke.


    "If we chat any longer, Sammy''s gonna start a bidding war." | teased, looking at Sammy.


    He was still staring at me with a mix of defiance and disbelief.


    ¡°Next time, Sammy,¡± | said firmly, locking eyes with Sammy, "Next time you cane over to my ce, and she can y with


    you again. But not with that attitude. | don''t appreciate your pushiness."


    "Where do you live?" Sammy didn''t care whether | liked it or not, his tone slightly less confident.


    ¡°Enough, Sammy. | know where Ms. Wilburn lives. We can visit another day," Irving intervened.


    Sammy eyed Irving suspiciously, "Irving, you know what happens if you lie to me."


    | rolled my eyes internally. What a little prince!Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Of course, Sammy. When have | ever lied to you?" Irving beamed with paternal pride.


    "Then take me there tomorrow," Sammy demanded.


    Hannah ruffled his hair, "Practice for


    the next couple of days\ Hit tGredlih\a


    rewrand yan get eal. Otherwise,


    forget about it." Please read the


    original content at .


    With a final nce at me, she tossed, "Allie, I''ll get the car."


    She nodded to Irving and Olivia, bidding them farewell.


    | exchanged a few more pleasantries with the couple, shot Nettie a look, and left the Bradlee residence.


    Sammy was persistent but got yanked back by Olivia who waved at me with a forced smile.


    On the drive back, Hannah exhaled


    loudly, ae a vate ye lftbis 1)


    eps yerties aan rn into a real


    ple¨¦ce of work, doing whatever he


    pleases." Please read the original


    content at .


    | chuckled, "A real piece of work indeed."


    ¡°How did it go?" Hannah asked, eyeing me curiously.


    "He took the bait," | leaned back,


    feeling the fatigue but Wena eal


    "But hes hen beens me,


    cometh ng we overlooked. He''s been


    watching me for longer than we


    thought." Please read the original


    content at .

 Chapter 572

    Chapter 572


    Back at Serene Garden Homes, Ronan and the others were still hanging around; the ce had be our unofficial clubhouse.


    | felt a swell offort at their familiar presence.


    | filled Ronan in on the situation with Irving.


    "| tested the waters with him. Money doesn''t seem to be an issue."


    Ronan cracked a knowing smile, "We''ve done a thorough analysis of Irving''s financial conditions. Considering the state of his


    Elixir Pharma Limited, he shouldn''t have such deep pockets. Seems like he''s got a powerful ally backing him."


    "What are they after?" | asked, puzzled.


    "Moneyundering. They''re cleaning their dirty cash, making their grey ie look legit. Investing in awful business project is


    the quickest way." Ronan''s gaze met mine, "And the person behind this is probably someone we''d never suspect."


    "So, that''s why you changed your identity after you got hurt," | murmured, probing further with a tentative question, "and theb


    you mentioned to my dad?"


    "It exists, and it''s mine," Ronan cut in before | could finish, his assurance unshakeable, "Every business front is a legitimate part


    of my personal assets."


    It was then | understood Ronan''s true purpose and why my dad had insisted | keep his original identity a secret, to forget Ronan


    ever existed.


    Ronan offered no further exnations. Despite my lingering questions, | didn''t press him.


    We talkedte into the night. | didn''t call Catherine. After bidding Ronan goodnight, | headed to catch some rest.


    After taking a few steps, a thought suddenly hit me, "I should y along with the trap that Irving has set for me, right?"


    Ronan''s smile returned, "Exactly. Otherwise, he won''t be at ease. Before you move in, I''ll have someone check the ce


    thoroughly."


    With an Okay, | turned and went upstairs.


    After washing up, Geneva called. | picked up cheerfully, "Hey, Allie!"


    "Youe back and don''t even drop a word?"


    ¡°I''ve been running around since |nded, and | haven''t had a chance to stop by Medsafe Liyah Inc. yet." | chuckled, "Been


    dealing with housing stuff, you know."


    Geneva''sughter rang light and clear, "Catherine told me about the kid. Any leads?"


    "None," | replied, my spirits falling, "Still searching."


    ¡°Let''s catch up tomorrow if you''re free," she suggested, sensing my mood dip, "Get some rest."


    With no desire to continue the conversation, | hung up.


    Lying in bed, | picked up the old phone Hazel had left behind, scrolling through photos of the lost child. | studied each one


    intently, zooming in until | couldn''t anymore.


    Though unsure if Hazel truly cared for the kid, she had at least kept a digital record of his growth.


    Images of the baby eating, sleeping, crawling, sitting, and standing brought tears to my eyes, and sleep eluded me. | couldn''t


    fathom how Hazel came to have the child.


    Sitting up, | scoured the phone for anything of value. Aside from the photos, it was a dead end, an electronic album of the child''s


    life.


    The phone had just two numbers, both now out of service. One must have been that woman''s.


    Ronan and Logan must have noticed too.


    Phone back on the nightstand, | tried


    to sleep again, but the mories\df\


    tegen betta ea with their


    secrets, haunted me like a carousel.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Their mysteries tied to me, They all


    passed away in a hurr with secrets,


    leavin prebleinis.clos ly rted to


    , which really made me


    speechless. Please read the original


    content at .


    | fretted most about Jesper, still loose in Silverdale City. Predicting their moves was a gamble, but their union spelled trouble.


    It was clear | couldn''t linger in


    Goldenvale Town. | had to re


    Silverdale City enc ake ation not


    Meveeteen and his team would


    keep searching for the child. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    I''d check Medsafe Liyah Inc., meet up with Geneva, and then head back to Silverdale City.


    With a n, | drifted off to a restless sleep, only to be jolted awake by Irving''s early call about seeing a house.


    There was no dodging this. After all, in his eyes, | was currently homeless.


    After freshening up, Hannah and | met Irving at the corner and drove straight to Hilltop Retreats.


    We pulled up before a standalone vi, one of the few Hannah and | had our hearts set on but were previously told had sold out.


    Exchanging a nce with Hannah, we stepped out of the car to take a closer look.


    Material ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 573

    Chapter 573


    In the array of distinct standalone homes perched atop the tform, Irving showed us the most character of the bunch.


    The view was magnificent, with an expansive swimming pool hugging the tform''s edge, merging seamlessly with the sky. It


    was a prime slice of heaven, nestled between the rolling hills and a private garden terrace.


    This ce was a tad cozier than the Serene Garden Homes, but the vistas were breathtaking. One could gaze down upon the


    quaint corner of Goldenvale Town, with the endless ocean stretching to the east.


    Irving had been watching my reactions closely. Now, seeing me leaning on the railing and looking out into the distance, he


    strolled over with a grin, "Ms. Wilburn, how do you feel about it?"


    "Pretty impressive! Wide-open views, pleasant scenery, and over there..." | gestured towards the mountain range behind the


    vi, "Is it safe?"


    ¡°You can count on that." Irving assured me, "Even though we''re up here at Hilltop Retreats, we''ve got ns for development.


    There''s no blind spot in our security. This mountain range is all under security surveince, no hidden dangers."


    ¡°How on earth did you snag this ce?" | asked with feigned admiration, "I''m not keen on moving house all the time."


    Irving chuckled, "Every chicken has its path, as they say. In business, who doesn''t have their connections?" He handed me a set


    of keys, "Make yourself at home."


    "I''d like pay for it myself," | said, taking the keys.


    "If our deal goes through, consider it part of your annual cut. This one''s just for you," Irving whispered.


    ¡°And if it doesn''t?" | teased, though my expression betrayed my jest.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    "Then you can pay for it yourself," Irving replied with a meaningful smile.


    "Deal!" | pocketed the keys without hesitation, feigning contentment, "I''ll have someonee tidy up in the next few days.


    Finally, a ce to call my own."


    "I''ve got a flight to Silverdale City tomorrow. Are you heading back?" Irving asked rxed after seeing me secure the keys.


    ¡°Not just yet. | still need to check in at Medsafe Liyah Inc.," | replied nonchntly.


    "Maybe we could continue discussing the partnership with Medsafe Liyah Inc.?" Irving hinted, seeing an opportunity.


    "Give me a break. Jan has turned Medsafe Liyah Inc. upside down. | need to catch my breath and set things straight," |


    replied with a legitimate reason.


    | thought to myself, ¡°Medsafe Liyah Inc.? Don''t even think about it. There''s no way I''m leaving any loose ends this time.¡±


    "I''ve left it all in the hands of a former associate. My main focus now is on Silverdale City, even my dad''s protested." | said with a


    smile, giving him a yful nce, "Sometimes, it really is hard to be in two ces at once."


    Gevena''s call couldn''t have been better timed. | made sure Irving heard, "Gevena, I''ll be done here shortly. You go ahead, and I''ll


    be right there."


    After | hung up, Irving asked casually, "Mrs. Atwood?"


    "Yep! A little get-together with the girls," | said nonchntly, "Well then, see you in Silverdale City."


    Before hopping into the car, | threw Irving a meaningful look, "Push hard!"


    Irving raised an eyebrow and smirked as if we shared an unspoken understanding.


    We each got into our cars, and | told Hannah the address, while Irving drove off.


    | rang Ronan and gave him the vi''s address.


    "Thinking of moving in?" Hannah asked, "It really is a lovely ce."


    "Yes, I''ll stay, at least until they sign the contract. | need to give him some peace of mind," | told Hannah.


    Arriving at our usual spot for the girls'' meet-up, | was surprised to see Janice had brought Jta along.


    It had been a while since I''d seen Jta, who looked much better, a bit plumper, still in a wheelchair, but speaking was no


    longer an issue.


    Gevena greeted me with a wave and a smile, "Busy first thing in the morning? Show me you''re all fixed up now."


    |ughed, teasing back, "All proper now."


    They allughed, and Catherine gave me a side-eye, "How improper were you before?"


    "The worst! | was always acting dead,


    and you expect me to be propessy{\


    walked over, set md down, and


    ch) hatte Jta, "Jta, you''re


    recovering so quickly." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Jta''s eyes immediately welled up.


    Janice said to me, "See what | mean?


    She gets over one ipgand aren |


    they Chie Aine drop of a hat


    now." Please read the original


    content at .


    | looked at her and patted her hand,


    ¡®That''s not like you. You dont look |


    ¡®spajaiensvaliors and


    crying doesn''t suit you." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Laughs circled the group again as Jta quickly wiped her eyes.


    Turning to Gevena, | asked, "Is lunch sorted? I''m starving here, no more filling up on water, please."


    "Today''s on Janice," Gevena informed me.


    "Why''s that?"


    ¡°Her husband just got a big promotion," Gevena said with a hint of envy.

 Chapter 574

    Chapter 574


    | nced at Janice with a hint of envy and asked, "Another promotion?"


    Janice''s smile was pure contentment, her nod shy but proud, "Yep, He is heading to the head office now."


    "Oh my gosh!" | eximed, "Does that mean you''re moving to Zephyr Hollow?"


    "Yes. But he''s going first. The kids and | will stay put in Goldenvale Town," Janice said with modesty, "We might not even join


    him. The kids are still too young, and | can''t bear to leave Jta. She needs me right now."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "He is climbing thedder at warp speed." | remarked, "He hasn''t been at the state level for that long, right? You really hit the


    jackpot. You''re okay with him going off to Zephyr Hollow alone?"


    | teased Janice with a yful look.


    Janiceughed with self-assurance, "What''s there to worry about? The saying goes, an ugly wife is a treasure at home, and I''ve


    got no concerns wherever he goes because he is not handsome. | picked him for that very reason."


    Geneva chimed in with a tease, "Oh, please! Don''t be so sure of yourself. Haven''t you heard money makes even theme and


    the blind lovable?"


    We all burst intoughter.


    ¡°He''s not rich, so who''d love a broke guy with a face like his?" Janice shot back.


    ¡°But how did you fall for him?" | pressed on, pinpointing the heart of the matter.


    | had always wanted to ask but had held back, thinking it might be impolite. Now that Janice had broached the topic of Baber''s


    appearance, | couldn''t let this chance slip away.


    "| saw he was a solid guy," Janice confessed.


    "Come on, give us the real scoop. We''re your sisters from another mister." Catherine was the first to call her out.


    | quickly joined in, "Exactly, no beating around the bush. Spill the beans, and I''ve been dying to ask you."


    Janice yfully pushed me away, "Curiosity killed the cat. You''re all about looks, so of course Baber wouldn''t catch your eye."


    "That sounds kinda harsh, doesn''t it? It''s not like | have a shot anyway." | admitted candidly, "| can''t see the forest for the trees.


    But you, you''ve got that special vision, spotted a diamond in the rough from a mile away. So, you have to satisfy my curiosity


    today. This has nothing to do with looks. And for the record, nobody said Baber''s ugly."


    ¡°Looks are just superficial anyway. In the dark, it''s all the same, isn''t it?" Janice''s reply was down-to-earth.


    "That''s a bit too frank for my taste. Don''t act all high and mighty, saying like that. Do you keep the lights off during the day too?


    Just tell us the truth. There must be something special about Baber that won him your heart," Catherine teased with a twinkle in


    her eye.


    | couldn''t help but look her way, our eyes meeting, and she blushed, avoiding my gaze.


    | smirked knowingly.


    Geneva, always perceptive, had been watching our exchange. Sheughed and said to Catherine, "You''re getting bolder with


    your words, aren''t you? If Aaliyah said that, | wouldn''t be surprised, buting from you calls for some serious analysis."


    Janice, Hannah, and | all turned to look at Catherine, who tried to change the subject, "Don''t change the subject! We''re talking


    about Janice''s honey here."


    Jta, who was always a bit tongue-tied, giggled, "No use hiding, and your words are too direct."


    Janice quickly pointed at Jta, "See, you got her talking now."


    Everyone burst intoughter again.


    Geneva teased Catherine, "Looks like things with your DragonLord are heating up?"


    "Oh, stop. There''s nothing going on.


    Can we have a little order her cWere


    talking about Janis, at interrupt.


    ARS A)du eep sidetracking us, we''ll


    never get the answer." Catherine said


    to me. Please read the original


    content at .


    | had to take the bait, "Alright, no


    more diversions. We''re talkin it


    Baber. Younegd co awaits the full


    sary bw did you spot Babert and


    leap into this firepit without looking


    back?" Please read the original


    content at .


    Thisment set off another round of heartyughter, with Catherine giving me a thumbs up, "Way to go! We all want to hear


    about your love story."


    | looked straight at Catherine, "After


    she''s done, you''re up next. Y''


    need to fill us ian Yui progress.


    Heieaitee like ¡®something


    special¡¯, and it''s time we got the


    lowdown." Please read the original


    content at .


    My words sparked another uproar of cheers andughter among us.

 Chapter 575

    Chapter 575


    Catherine eyed me with a quizzical expression, her wordsced with a biting curiosity. "Aaliyah, what group do you belong to


    anyway?"


    Feigning innocence, | shot back, "What do you mean? Aren''t we all on the same team?"


    Hannah quickly chimed in, "That''s not quite right."


    Catherine''s face fell into a mock despair, "Off-topic again."


    | steered us back on course with a yful insistence, "Right, off-topic. Your turn to spill the beans."


    Janice nced at us, her tone suddenly serious, "How do | put this? My connection with Baber was just serendipity.¡±


    Catherine wouldn''t have it, "Come on, there''s got to be more to it than that. Spill the details."


    With no way out, Janice sighed and began her tale, "Honestly, at first nce, he wasn''t my type. | mean, every girl likes


    handsome guys, and | am no exception. If it hadn''t been for the drama with Jta, | would never have agreed to marry him."


    Catherine''s brows knitted in confusion, "What does Jta have to do with any of this?"


    Janice''s voice wavered as she recalled the family turmoil, "Well, Jta ended up with this guy, Irving. It nearly sent my mom


    into depression. Every day she was either crying, fuming, or throwing a fit." Jta''s eyes brimmed with tears at the memory.


    "It became this dark cloud over our family, spoiling the mood for ages. My parents even forbade Jta froming home.


    They didn''t mean it, but they can''t take back words once they''re out there. The whole atmosphere at home was gloomy, and | got


    caught up in the storm. | didn''t dare go against them. It would''ve broken my mother''s heart."


    Janice paused to pat Jta''s shoulder in aforting gesture.


    "So how did you and Baber meet?" | prodded with curiosity.


    Janice chuckled at the memory, "Meeting him was kind of a story in itself. To everyone else, it was a set-up by a matchmaker,


    our first date. But the truth is, | met him way before that."


    "Oh? Do tell," | urged, my interest piqued.


    "He was quite the strategist," Janice admitted, "Some of the things | only learned after we got married. He said he never


    imagined I''d marry him."


    "Why not?" Geneva inquired, joining the conversation.


    "He first saw me in our university''s library."


    "The library? But he''s so much older than you, and he couldn''t have been a fellow student," Catherine prodded further.


    "No," Janice quickly rified, "His team needed some research for a case and couldn''t find it anywhere. They ended up at our


    library. He told me once how | went out of there, arms full of books, only to have them scattered by one of his subordinates. | was


    livid, shouting, ¡°Is this a farmers'' market? Are you in a rush to snag the best veggies?¡±


    Catherineughed, pointing at Janice, "That''s so you, fiery and fierce, with a touch of pride."


    "Baber, without saying a word, bent


    down to pick up the books for me


    and organized all the bgoks fechad |


    peiacliion poner in the hands


    offhis subordinate and punished him


    for sending them back to me. |


    epted, so | let the kid carry the


    books and send them back to our


    ssroom." Please read the original


    content at .


    Janiceughed uncontrobly at this, "It turns out | did know that guy carrying the books, and him, | don''t remember a thing.¡±


    Janice grinned unabashedly, "I guess that''s when he took notice of me. After doing his research, he even checked up on me. By


    the time | graduated and started working, he''d already reached out to my mom through some connections."


    "He is ying the long game." | quipped.


    Janice nodded earnestly, "By then, he


    had been promoted to a pretty


    high-ranking position, one of the


    youngest to do so. My mom was


    actually hesita tapoutltim. fttook


    Hey days to@ven bring up the idea of


    a date. And when she did introduce


    Baber to me, she kept going on about


    his potential, calling him a young,


    promising talent with a bright future.


    After all, it''s rare to reach his rank at


    such an age. She even hinted that he


    might be up for another promotion


    after some additional training."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "It seems like he¡¯s had a pretty smooth ascension up the ranks," Catherine said, her voice echoing with a hint of envy.


    ¡°His career certainly was on a fast track," Geneva added.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "True! And they didn''t dare show me


    his picture before the date. | went


    there full of a eect


    dregsert upall hice, but when he


    walked in, it felt like a bucket of ice


    water had been dumped over my


    head. | was speechless." Please read


    the original content at


    .

 Chapter 576

    Chapter 576


    Janice''sment had us all cracking up.


    "Come on, is it really that dramatic?" Geneva chided Janice with augh.


    "You have no idea what | was feeling at that moment." Janice put on a melodramatic expression of utter despair, but quickly


    added, "Actually, Baber is not ugly. At first nce, nobody gives him a second look. On a second look, he''s passable. But now,


    after seeing him a lot, | think he''s quite handsome."


    "Oh, please! Your taste must have changed" Catherine was blunt as ever.


    Hannah couldn''t help but cover her mouth to stifle augh.


    | joined in with a yful jab at Catherine, "Why do you have to be such a buzzkill? Don''t say that, even though it''s true."


    Geneva and Jta both giggled along.


    In the midst of the levity, Janice yfully swatted at Catherine''s arm, "Don''t you dare gloat, or your beloved DragonLord could be


    on the next boat out!"


    Raising her hands in a pleading gesture, Catherine quickly said, "Can we please stay on topic?"


    Janice then resumed her story, "You can''t imagine how disappointed | felt. | was ready to walk out right then and there. But the


    matchmaker insisted we go for a walk alone, and it was so distressing. After all, the matchmaker was my mom''s boss. How could


    | say no? | had to bite the bullet and walk out of the matchmaker''s house with him for some one-on-one time. | figured I''d just get


    through the day, and we''d never see each other again. We''re adults, no need for pettiness. Besides, he was a man of standing, a


    real catch."


    We allughed again at her words.


    With a serious face, Janice continued, "But that one-on-one time swayed me. He was quick-witted, well-spoken, and the epitome


    of a gentleman."


    "What did you two talk about?" | asked, curious.


    "Well, we talked about mypany. | was dealing with a tough problem and was at a loss. He gave me some advice that


    rified my thoughts and taught me some negotiation strategies, focusing on the key points. Honestly, with his guidance, | found


    a solution right away. And when he exined the intricacies of rtionships, he totally drew you into his way of thinking. |


    realized why he had climbed thedder so fast, and he was smart. Before we parted, he modestly shared his family background,


    his strengths and weaknesses, the pros and cons, and the potential for growth, like he was presenting me with multiple choice


    questions."


    "He set a trap for you," | said,ughing at Janice.


    ¡°Right? And he was so understanding, telling me to take my time to think it over, to weigh the options before giving him an


    answer. But if | agreed, he wanted to get married as soon as possible because he nned to go to Zephyr Hollow for further


    studies. He might get busier with a possible promotion after returning.¡±


    "He''s hinting that he''s on the rise. Baber is a sly one, keeping you on the hook without showing his hand."


    "Seems like power is indeed seductive. No wonder it''s been coveted throughout the ages."


    We all chimed in with our thoughts.


    "So, what happened next?" Hannah asked eagerly.


    "After he dropped me off at my


    doorstep, he gave me his nu b¨¦ry\


    and said ogal tinder made up


    rhy inf . He''d keep his phone on all


    the time, waiting for my good news."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "Oh my gosh, that''s unexpectedly romantic." Catherine said with envy, "Who knew Baber was so smooth? His dating game is


    top-notch."


    "Back home, | tossed and turned,


    unable to sleep. | went from thinking


    about Jta to pagan akuctheh!


    facethaa| WP really not satisfied.


    | kept wishing he was just a bit more


    handsome, and then there''d be no


    need to think, I''d go straight to get


    the marriage license." Please read the


    original content at .


    Geneva gave a knowing smile, "Nothing''s perfect, right? Isn''t life full of disappointments?"


    "Exactly." Janice conceded with a


    nod, "One doesn''t always get wh


    they want. | stiyggialith nyse for


    three aholktays. But then,


    something happened that made me


    commit without looking back." Please


    read the original content at


    .This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "What was it?" we asked in unison.

 Chapter 577

    Chapter 577


    We all asked in unison, our eyes turned to Janice.


    Janice looked at Catherine and said, "You''re talking about the moving truck ident, right? The one that caused a huge stir, had


    the whole town in an uproar."


    Catherine jumped in, "| remember that mess. | was on the beat then. The family who hired the movers was so arrogant, and they


    t-out refused topensate. They even had the nerve to im the old man was scamming them and ended up hurting his


    son. That''s the one, isn''t it?"


    ¡°Exactly that one." Janice nodded vigorously, "You''ve got a great memory."


    "If | recall correctly, some big shot ordered the arrest of that employer and did that open a can of worms." Catherine finished,


    turning to Janice with a knowing look, "That was Baber?"


    "That''s him." Janice replied with augh, "Indeed, it was him. Who in Goldenvale Town wasn''t following that story? It caught fire


    so quickly, that the public outrage was palpable. | kept tabs on it too, and his actions were just so satisfying."


    ¡°And then | saw the report, the man behind the desk was him. | was smitten, thinking, there''s a man of justice. Having someone


    like that to have my back sure feels reassuring.¡±


    Catherine teased Janice, "Did you ever check if it was just another cunning move by Baber?"


    | shot Catherine a nce, and she really was bold.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Knock it off!" Janice shoved her yfully and continued, "So, after giving it a lot of thought, | called him. | was so worked up |


    didn''t even check the time, just made the call. He picked up instantly and asked if | made up my mind?"


    ¡°| was so confused and | asked him why he knew it was me." Janice''s face was full of happiness, like a girl newly in love, "He


    said I¡¯m the only contact on this phone."


    "God!" Catherine slumped back onto the couch, feigning heartbreak, "I''m so full of your lovey-dovey stories."


    We allughed, but | felt a pang of envy. Baber really did seem to be a catch, both emotionally and intellectually smart.


    Geneva couldn''t help butment, "| have to say, Baber is quite the strategist."


    "Don''t be jealous," Janice waved off our envious looks, "Little did | know, he thenid out a few ground rules for being his wife."


    Janice''s smile turned into a frown.


    "What kind of rules?" Catherine asked quickly.


    Geneva cut her off, "Catherine, that''s too much. You shouldn''t ask that."


    Catherine and | both zipped our lips in understanding.


    Geneva and Janice, both being politicians¡¯ wives, knew the score, and we knew better than to pry any further.


    Janice gave Geneva a look and then smiled, "That''s why after getting married, | seldom bother him with issues. Even with all my


    doubts about Jta¡¯s case, | never pulled on his connections. If it wasn''t for Irving crossing the line this time, he wouldn''t have


    gotten involved."


    ¡°Exactly, Irving went too farst time." | chimed in, "Baber has been very restrained. Anyone else would have taken action


    against Irving by now."


    ¡°But | can''t just let it go." Janice clenched her teeth at the mention of the incident, "Once things settle down, I''ll make sure he


    regrets it."


    ¡°And then you married Baber?" | continued the conversation.


    "Yeah. It was a whirlwind marriage,


    no courtship, just straight to eiee


    after mae ten Fit say,


    Hereathy reats me well." Janice''s


    face softened into a tender


    expression. Please read the original


    content at .


    ¡°After we got married, he took me to Zephyr Hollow. He was there for a course, and | tagged along and turned it into our


    honeymoon. When we got back, he''d even gotten a promotion."


    "You should stop calling Baber


    unattractive," Geneva spoke up, "He''s


    got a certain rugged ch em about \\


    rattarcaiubiedyes


    rae a.


    from years of being deep in his work..


    Hemands respect without even


    trying. Even Noah always praises


    Baber, saying when he speaks,


    people listen." Please read the


    original content at .


    "And I''ve had my fair share of


    struggles too. Over the years, there


    have been times Ive patto fair


    igmakeit( Sire! it public, I''m Mrs.


    Forrest, but my background can''t


    compare to yours. Look at Aaliyah,


    with her strong support system and


    thriving business." Please read the


    original content at .


    ¡°And you''reparing yourself to me? I''ve been through the wringer more times than | can count, as you well know." | sighed


    heavily.


    "What goes down muste up." She said, looking at me, "Now that you''ve left that beast Jan, things will surely start looking


    up."


    Thinking about Janice''s words, | wanted to tell her about my deal with Irving but decided against it and swallowed the words back


    down.

 Chapter 578

    Chapter 578


    | watched them with a wry smile, "Life hasn''t been kind to me, so I''ve got to fight back, right? I''ve got to keep on living."


    Jta, who had been quietly listening in, chimed in, "That''s already quite impressive, stronger than me. There''s still time."


    | grinned and took Jta''s hand, "You''ve got time too. Get well soon, so you and Janice can run the business together. Make a


    comeback."


    She shook her head, her eyes misting over, and looked down, "It''s not easy."


    "You''re not the type to go down without a fight. Maybe we''ll even have a chance to partner up in the future." | encouraged her,


    "As long as you''re alive, there''s always hope.¡±


    Janice, quick to speak her mind, said, "She''s always thinking about that thankless wretch."


    Janice was referring to Nettie.


    Jta cast an annoyed nce her way, "Don''t talk about her like that."


    ¡°Even now, she''s still protecting her." Janice was visibly upset, her expression cooling, "You''ve been awake for so long, has she


    come to visit you? Even a simple greeting?"


    l instinctively replied, "Actually, there was a greeting. A few days ago..."


    Jta''s gaze snapped to mine, her grip on my hand tightening.


    | paused, then continued, "A few days ago, she and Irving were in Silverdale City to discuss a partnership, and | saw her. She


    asked me to tell you that she couldn''te to see you and that you should take care and keep on living.¡±


    | ryed the message verbatim.


    Janice exploded, "Listen to that. Is that how a person should talk?? What does she mean she couldn''te to see her? How


    can she spend every day with Olivia, putting on a smile in front of the person who''s caused her own mother so much pain? How


    can she stomach it? And take care? As if we needed her to tell us that.¡±


    "She said | should live well," Jta interjected, trying to stop Janice''s outburst.


    | shot Janice a stern look, "Cool it! Don''t add fuel to the fire. If she said that much, it means she still cares about Jta. Don''t be


    too harsh."


    Jta nodded vigorously, relief in her eyes, "Right. She said it, and she cares. She has me in her heart."


    Janice turned to Geneva, "You see? This is how it is. I¡¯m so good to her, and it doesn''t mean as much as Nettie''s single


    sentence."


    Geneva quickly tried to calm Janice down, "You''re definitely overreacting. Stop talking like that. Maybe Nettie has her reasons?"


    | was about to share how Nettie looked when | saw her the other day but thought better of it. It would only upset Jta more, so


    | swallowed my words.


    | always felt that talking about my interactions with Irving and his involvement was best kept to a minimum around them.


    But Nettie''s message, | had delivered it, and perhaps it was aforting word for Jta.


    Catherine quickly changed the subject, but Jta quietly pulled me aside for a private chat about Nettie. | shared only that | had


    seen her once and described her current state.


    She asked me to snap a recent photo of Nettie if | got the chance.


    | promised her that. After all, | understood a mother''s heart best.


    We carried on until three in the afternoon when Janice had to head home to tend to her baby, and we all went our separate ways.


    Then | took Hannah to Medsafe Liyah Inc.


    The ce was in better shape than when it was under the Dawson family''s control thest time | visited. | saw many familiar


    faces.


    Addrion was ecstatic to see me.


    He pulled me into his office and practically pushed me into a chair, "Allie, take it all in, does it feel like you''re back?"


    | leaned back theatrically, "It is so good! But you''ve changed the chairs, right?"


    | pointed disdainfully at the chair.


    Addrionughed, plopping down on


    the desk like he us to\backGis BUF"


    egh gays) stilthe same rascal.


    Please read the original content atChapter


    "Changed them, for sure. Couldn''t stand the old ones."


    "Well, that''s good to hear. I''m just


    waiting for your oo news. (1 Saleh |


    ip@timacett g the hang of


    things?" Please read the originalExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    content at .


    "Totally! Everyone''s so supportive," Addrion replied earnestly. "Take a break, thene back."


    "You can kiss that thought goodbye.


    This is your battlefield now. Why


    wouldn''t | just sit back ad ergy the


    i idendg? Beaited Someone''s got to


    cafry VitalAxis Pharmaceuticals, and


    | want my dad to enjoy life." | had my


    ns and was definitely not going to


    take over Medsafe Liyah Inc. again.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    After all, it was Addrion''s time to shine.


    ¡°How''s your health?" | asked, concerned.


    He stood up and spun around, "I¡¯m holding up just fine, so don''t worry about me."


    | examined him, and he looked a lot better than thest time | saw him.


    Just then, Caleb and a young guy came in, "Mr. Addrion..."

 Chapter 579

    Chapter 579


    They caught a hitch in my expression and reeled in whatever they were about to say.


    "Come on in!" Addison called out immediately.


    | rose to my feet as Addison grinned and tugged at my arm, "Let''s have a proper introduction. Meet the new CEO of Medsafe


    Liyah Inc., Mr. Caleb. And this gentleman is the Port Commissioner, Mr. Nathan."


    My gaze narrowed and shifted toward Nathan, who immediately became flustered, rubbing his hands together before bowing


    respectfully, "Ms. Wilburn!"


    | internally snorted, impressed with Addison''s bold hiring choices.


    ¡°Nathan! This may be our first meeting, but I''ve heard your name before," |mented. "Here''s hoping you''ll do right by Mr.


    Addison in the future."


    "| will," Nathan assured me with a firm look.


    | didn''t pursue the matter further. If Addison trusted him, he must have had his reasons.


    Turning to Caleb, | smiled, "Caleb, it seems we''re old friends who''ve barely met."This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He returned the smile, extending his hand, "Thank you for your trust, Ms. Wilburn."


    | eyed them, "Do you have a matter to attend to?"


    Caleb hurriedly admitted, "There''s a meeting."


    "Then off you go! I''m going to wander around." | nced at Addison, "Addison, I''ll be off. Might head back to Silverdale City


    tomorrow."


    "How about dinner together tonight?" Addison proposed with a hint of reluctance.


    As | headed out, | called back, "Coordinate with your contact, I''ll be ready whenever.¡±


    He saw me to the elevator, and just as the doors closed, | felt a twinge of loss but quickly shrugged it off, feeling at ease again.


    Upon reaching the ground floor, | checked the time. It felt too early to head home. "Let''s swing by Epoch za," | suggested to


    Hannah, "| need some new clothes. I''m running out of things to wear."


    ¡°Roger that!"


    We got into the car, and as | was about to start the engine, a red Porsche slid past us. Hannah and | eximed in unison, "Isn''t


    that Renata?"


    We exchanged nces, and | looked at Hannah skeptically, "What''s she doing in this garage?"


    "I''ll check where she''s headed,¡± Hannah said, unbuckling her seatbelt and vanishing in a sh.


    Soon she returned, panting, "She went to the hotel next door, just caught a glimpse of her back."


    "It seems she''s living the good life again." | quipped.


    ¡°We''ll find out more about that carter," Hannah said, sending out the photo from her phone.


    Secured in her seat, we left the building.


    After an hour at the mall, | gave uppletely, not bothering with fittings anymore. | had the sales clerk wrap up any piece that


    caught my eye in the right size. Hannah handled the payment while | slumped into the sofa, too weary to move.


    Just then, | caught sight of Farley escorting a mboyant woman past the store.


    The woman clung to Farley, pointing at a shop, "Honey, let''s check this one out."


    | nearly burst outughing, ¡°Honey?¡± Indeed, Farley had found himself a new toy.


    He nced over dismissively, "This ce is for young girls. What''s there to see?"


    Clearly, he hadn''t noticed me, and he seemed genuinely uninterested in the store.


    The woman frowned, "Am | old?"


    Farley quickly stered on a smile, "| didn''t say you were old. It''s just that these styles are too in for you."


    "Tell me the truth, do you think it''s too expensive?" she retorted, "Let''s just go, then."


    With a twist of disappointment, she marched ahead.


    | had to admit, the woman had kept


    up her figure, and her face WAS m


    well-maint ained, ter imakeup


    Kae ianice She seemed to have


    dragged Farley here for a shopping


    spree. Please read the original


    content at .


    When the woman started to sulk, Farley hurried after her, and their conversation faded out of earshot.


    Hannah returned from paying,


    followed my gaze, and. n eaeiing\


    rley and thein6man, ARs chuckled,


    ? That''s the woman. A special


    arrangement." Please read the


    original content at .


    "Oh?" | raised an eyebrow, "Fancy! Not bad at all.¡±


    Hannahughed, "Looks like he''s already ying the part. Daring toe to a ce like this? The old guy''s gonna have to


    spend a lot of money."


    |ughed along, "She has already called him honey. Farley''s getting his second shot at romance. | bet it''s going to bleed his


    wallet dry!"


    "That woman''s known as Fannie, a


    local legend," Hannah inform


    "She use tg beyaarl¨¦arshe S aria


    coMpetttiv ve ee a bit haughty


    because of her skills." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Curious, | asked Hannah, "How did she end up like this?"

 Chapter 580

    Chapter 580


    Hannah scoffed with a mocking smile, "Let me tell you, the troupe brought in this new dancer, a real talent. She''s so much more


    skilled than Fannie, and she''s the leadingdy.


    Seeing her spot under threat, Fannie cozied up to the director. But she got caught red-handed by his wife, right in the act. The


    press had a field day and the wife pped Fannie silly in front of everyone. Talk about a fall from grace.


    Fannie med it all on the new girl and got nasty. She sabotaged a performance, causing the poor thing to trip during a tricky


    move, breaking her leg, ending her career on stage.¡±


    ¡°That''s downright dirty,¡± |mented.


    ¡°Exactly! So, the girl pressed charges, and Fannie spent four years in jail, waving goodbye to the spotlight. Once she got out,


    she just started swindling men out of their money.¡±


    ¡°That just shows she was rotten to the core.¡±


    Hannah continued, ¡°She still had that dancer''s charm, though. You know, still quite the catch despite getting on in years. Even if


    she was caught in the act, it was all consensual, so there wasn''t much they could do. It''s like they say, once you have no shame,


    you''re invincible, and nothing really matters. Now, she''s all about her makeup and scams, especially with old-timers. Her and


    Farley is a match made in heaven.¡±


    ¡°Farley''s been henpecked by Hazel for years. Now that he''s got a taste of freedom, he''s acting like a kid in a candy store,¡± | said,


    picturing his drooling face.


    Fannie could make any man weak in the knees, not just Farley.


    ¡°Fannie''s moved into Farley''s ce now. They''re living it up, day and night, and the whole neighborhood''s buzzing about it.¡±


    Hannah chuckled wickedly, ¡°Those old-timers are all cursing Farley, saying he''ll get hiseuppance.¡±


    ¡°About Farley''s finances, you asked me to check, and he''s got two cards, one for his pension, which is just over three grand a


    month, and another with savings under half a million. Since Hazel passed, he''s been burning through cash, living paycheck to


    paycheck, splurging on wine, and dining with thedies.¡±


    ¡°What a waste!¡± | cursed, ¡°The apple doesn''t fall far from the tree.¡±


    Grinning mischievously, Hannah added, ¡°Now that he''s hooked on Fannie, he''s going to be broke before he knows it.¡±


    ¡°He won''t learn his lesson until she bleeds him dry,¡± | snorted, ¡°But let''s not let her get toofy in that house. Once this is over,


    she can go back to her old ways, just keep her from causing more trouble.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. We''ll take down Fannie''s gang while we''re at it,¡± Hannah said coldly.


    ¡°She has a gang?¡± | asked incredulously.


    ¡°Oh, yeah! After she''s done with the old guys, she ropes them into her schemes.¡±


    ¡°How so?¡± | asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Gambling,¡± Hannah said nonchntly, ¡°Conning people into betting games, poker, you name it. Once they''re in her circle, they


    go in dressed to the nines ande out with nothing but their birthday suits. And don''t get me started on the cons, like fake


    marriages. She''s the mastermind.¡±Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°| can''t believe it. She''s quite the character.¡± | mused, then decided, ¡°Let''s have Farley''s house seized by the state then.¡±


    Hannah looked at me, fishing for confirmation, ¡°You mean...¡±


    | raised an eyebrow at her, replying,


    "Let''s turn Farley''s ceantociie\


    sepfiaaiad, id then bring the


    whole house down.¡± Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah burst intoughter, ¡°Allie, you''ve got a wicked mind.¡±


    As Hannah and | talked, we walked out with bags in hand, my phone stubbornly ringing inside.


    Hannah took everything from me,


    signaling she''d take therp to theytan |


    sie edatiber Ba pL ed out my


    te seeing a strange number.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Hesitating, | answered, and Jan''s voice came through, ¡°Babe, we need to talk. | have something to tell you.


    ¡°Cut the crap, | don''t think there''s anything left to say between us,¡± | said, ready to hang up.


    But Jan shouted from the other


    end, ¡°Allie, wait and don ang apt |


    reatnen 04500 You want


    ABiec is about the kid, right? I''ll tell


    you...¡± Please read the original


    content at .


    | froze before demanding sharply, ¡°What did you say?¡±

 Chapter 581

    Chapter 581


    "Meet me, and I''ll tell you about the lost kid," Jan''s voice was firm and resolute.


    "Jan, you better stand by what you just said." | gritted my teeth, enunciating each word with force, "Or you know what the


    consequences will be."


    "I''ve genuinely got a lead. Face-to-face''s the way to go." He swore earnestly, "| promise, you won''t be disappointed.¡±


    "Where are you?" | asked, unable to contain my impatience, "Come to the Dawson family. I''m waiting at home for you. But | have


    one condition youe alone, or the deal''s off."


    With that, he hung up.


    "Hello?" | called out in desperation, stomping my foot in frustration.


    Hannah noticed | hadn''te out for a while and came back to find me. Seeing my troubled expression, she pressed, "Whose


    call was that?"


    "Jan." | quickly responded to Hannah, then grabbed her arm, "Come on, we''re heading to the Dawson family.¡±


    "To the Dawson family?" Hannah asked, puzzled, "Why?"


    As we hurriedly walked to the parking lot, | repeated Jan''s words to her, "Jan just called, saying he knows something about


    my lost kid, insisting | meet him to get the lead."


    Hannah abruptly stopped in her tracks, and | looked at her seriously, "Allie, do you believe him?"


    ¡°Not at all, but | can''t miss any chance." | continued walking, heedless of her concerns.


    Hannah quickly followed, "Allie, keep your cool. Jan is probably just full of hot air. Think about it, we''ve grilled him so many


    times, and he''s mmed up every time. Now he ims he''s got a lead, and it smells like a trap."


    | stopped and faced Hannah, visibly agitated, "I know it''s probably a trap, but | need to put my mind at ease. | won''t ignore any


    information about my lost child, even if it turns out to be false."


    With that, | turned and walked on, but then spun back to Hannah, "Hannah, deep down, | feel Jan knows something. Even if


    he''s using this as leverage, as long as it brings my child back to me, I''d give up my fortune without a shred of regret.¡±


    Hannah was about to speak when | raised my hand to stop her, "Don''t try to convince me otherwise." With those final words, |


    walked away.


    "Allie..." Hannah followed closely behind.


    Once in the car, | instructed her, "Drive to the Dawson residence. I''ll go in alone, and you just wait downstairs for me."


    "No way, you''re not leaving my sight. It''s my responsibility to keep you safe." Hannah raised her voice for the first time, refusing


    my n.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Knowing she had my best interests at heart and acknowledging her duty, | said no more. All | could think about was seeing


    Jan and extracting whatever he knew.


    Upon arrival at the Dawson residence, | took a deep breath and reassured Hannah, "Just wait here, | can handle this alone. He


    said he only wants to see me."


    ¡°Allie, you''re making this hard for me." Hannah stood her ground, determined.


    "Don''t worry, nothing will happen to me." |forted her, "| haven''t found my child yet, and | won''t risk my life foolishly. Besides,


    he wouldn''t dare harm me."


    "He''s desperate, and that makes him dangerous," Hannah argued.


    ¡°But | can''t gamble with my son''s life." | retorted, my voice filled with a mix of anger and determination.


    Seeing my stubbornness, Hannah


    compromised, "I''ll go up with-yound


    itb the goon? dry ing happens,


    iWeb ¡ì ere to back you up." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    Not wanting to waste any more time, | didn¡¯t refuse and headed inside, with Hannah close behind.


    | knocked on the door without


    hesitation, and sure enough, it was


    Jan who opened itcHewebet his


    demearidr''Garkened the moment he


    spotted Hannah, "| said, just the two


    of us for the talk." His tone left no


    room for argument. Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah stepped forward, "Jan,


    don''t push your luck. You thi fi


    know wh tyoureplotting? Today, I''m


    riod lett g Allie out of my sight. Either


    spill it or we''re out of here." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    After her ultimatum, Hannah tried to pull me away.


    Jan sneered sarcastically, "Aaliyah, then | guess you''re not that eager to find your kid."


    As he moved to close the door, | yanked it open and barked at Hannah, "Wait here.¡±


    Then | pushed her aside, strode into the Dawson family, and mmed the door behind me.

 Chapter 582

    Chapter 582


    As | stepped into the house alone, Jan''s face lit up with warmth, "Allie, take a seat."


    ¡°What do you want to talk about?" | wasn''t keen on lingering alone with him any longer than necessary.


    His smile stiffened for a moment but then stered itself back onto his face, "Easy does it. Have some water."


    "Cut the crap. Where''s the kid?" | cut straight to the chase.


    "If not for the kid, it seems you really wouldn''t spare me a nce," he retorted, sinking into the couch with a smirk that was


    exceedingly irritating, giving me the kind of shivers as if ants were marching down my spine.


    "Do you have any news about the child or not?" | demanded.


    "Sure do." Jan said, all casual-like, "But there are conditions."


    "Spit it out. What conditions?" | asked without a hint of hesitation.


    His eyes, red as a fox''s, lit up, "Such a straight shooter and big spender."


    He sneered, "Aren''t you even gonna ask what it is?"


    ¡°As long as your lead is worth something, name it," | shot back.


    He looked at mezily, then sat up and reached for an apple from the fruit bowl on the coffee table. He started peeling it with a


    knife, taking his sweet time just to test my patience.


    | took a deep breath, steadied my emotions, and locked eyes with him, "Jan, whatever game you''re ying, you better know


    that | have to find that child.¡±


    | tried to appeal to whatever shred of decency he might have left. "You best not be using the kid''s situation to y games with


    me, or using it as a bargaining chip. Even if you''re a beast, that child is still yours. Are you really going to sit back and let him be


    raised by strangers?"


    Jan''s hand paused, the apple peel broke and fell onto the table.


    "What''s the condition? Just say it. As long as the lead on the child is legit, I''ll deliver," | reiterated.


    He let out a snort and tried to y it cool, arching an eyebrow as he said, "Simple. | don''t care how much you''re willing to pay,


    just get me a ne ticket to Australia and five million dors."


    I snorted back, pressing him, "Where''s the child?"


    ¡°I''ll tell you where the kid is once | see those things," he insisted, not budging an inch.


    | red at his face, wanting to tear it apart, but this wasn¡¯t the time for my vengeance.


    My mind raced with thoughts.


    After a long stare-down, | asked him, "Why did Hazel work with Zora? How did she snatch the child from Zora''s clutches?"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Jan''s gaze snapped up, his pupils contracting, but then they rxed. He put down the knife, left the half-peeled apple on the


    table, leaned back on the couch, and stared me down.


    ¡°How did you know it was my mom who took the child?" he asked, feigning nonchnce.


    "Where has she hidden the child?" | pressed on, "Is Hazel even human? Where did she stash the kid after taking him?"


    Jan remained silent, probably weighing his options.


    | roared, unable to contain my frustration, "Where has Hazel hidden him? Does Zora even know it was her?"


    He just sat there, studying me with an unreadable expression.


    | quickly analyzed Jan''s current


    state of mind and then said to hi


    word by word, a Naae aytarmitoudon ty


    ra waere has hidden the child,


    I''ll take the story about you and


    AzureEnchantress to the cops."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "Who told you?" He remained seated, not moving a muscle, but the look in his eyes grew gloomy, the coldness creeping in.


    "You don''t know, do you? Before Zora


    killed her whole family after stealing


    Carl, she called me when | uae


    her to North T Sire \tOld- eilot


    Ip XCHANGE For letting her go. The


    bargaining chip was your secret with


    AzureEnchantress, and | got it all on


    tape. As for Australia, | can make that


    happen, but first, tell me where Hazel


    has hidden the child?" Please read


    the original content at


    .


    "| told you once the ticket and the


    money are in hand, |''ll te if yourwheks


    momstashed th Nei Jan


    said, confident he''d win. Please read


    the original content at


    .


    | reined in my emotions, showing him a glimpse of vulnerability.


    ¡°Have you seen the child? Tell me, is he okay?" | asked, my expression wracked with pain, "How''s he living?"


    Without hesitation, Jan told me, "He''s been doing just fine, actually. Living with a simple country couple, sweet as can be."


    It was bing clearer by the second that Jan was potentially feeding me a load of nonsense.

 Chapter 583

    Chapter 583


    To confirm my suspicions, | pressed further, ¡°Have you seen him?¡±


    | looked at Jan with feigned devastation, ¡°Can you let me see him? Just a glimpse and I''ll book you a flight. But you¡¯ve got


    legal troubles, can you even leave?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. Since you''ve pushed me into a corner, skipping town would ease your mind too, wouldn''t it?¡± His


    shameless retort hung in the air.


    ¡°Just tell me, did you actually see the kid? Is he okay?¡± My voice bordered on hysteria.


    Jan didn¡¯t hesitate, ¡°Of course, | saw him. | just visited the other day.¡±


    At his words, my heart settled.


    | gave him a nonchnt look and offered some begrudging praise, ¡°At least you thought to check on the kid. That''s decent of


    you.¡±


    ¡°Well, he is my son.¡± Jan boasted with pride.


    ¡°Your son?¡± | scoffed coldly, catching him off guard with another question, ¡°Speaking of which, what¡¯s your n for your other


    son?¡±


    His smile vanished in an instant, his gaze snapping to mine, lips twitching, but no words followed.


    ¡°Jan, you don¡¯t really think I''d raise the child you had with Zora, do you?¡± | pressed again, ¡°Since you''re so full of fatherly love,


    you should keep him with you. After all, he¡¯s been by your side all along, a constant reminder of your brilliant advisor. You love


    her, after all.¡±Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Aaliyah, stop enjoying my misery. | never loved Zora.¡± He insisted.


    ¡°You have a child with her, and saying that now would be heartless.¡± With that, | stood up, ¡°You''re staying here, right? I''ll send


    him over. It¡¯s only right to return him to his rightful owner.¡±


    Suddenly aware of my tone, Jan leaped up, eyes wary, ¡°Aaliyah, what are you nning?¡±


    ¡°I''m going to prepare five million dors for you. You are not interested in the money?¡± Heading towards the door, | added, ¡°I''ll be


    sending Carl over.¡±


    He panicked, lurching across the coffee table to grab my wrist, fury in his eyes, ¡°Aaliyah, are you trying to fool me?¡±


    | struggled to shake him off, but his grip tightened, ¡°Aaliyah, | mean what | say. Give me the money, and I''ll take you to our child.¡±


    ¡°Let go of me, or the deal''s off.¡± | red back at him.


    Instead, he pulled me closer, a hint of lust in his eyes, ¡°Aaliyah, we¡¯ve been married ten years. How can you treat me like this? |


    admit | did wrong by you, but wasn¡¯t | good to you before? Treating you like a queen. Aaliyah, don¡¯t you know how much | miss.


    you?¡±


    He leaned in, his grip unyielding, his other arm snaking around me forcefully.


    ¡°Let go of me!" | struggled and pushed my other hand violently at him.


    He stumbled and didn''t stop.


    "Calm down, and it''s a rare opportunity. It''s just the two of us here, so let''s be close. Don''t you want to?" With that, he reached


    out his other arm and forcefully circled me.


    ¡°| know you''re angry, but it¡¯s all Jerome¡¯s fault. He messed everything up and got me entangled with that madwoman


    AzureEnchantress, a greedy hag. Never even saw her face, and she was brainwashing me for money.¡± He continued.


    Madwoman? Never saw her face?


    A thought flickered in my mind, but in


    that moment of hesitatign, Ja)


    p led rpejet ¨¦hshing embrace,


    a fic against me like a dog. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    My senses snapped back.


    ¡°Forget your anger. Let¡¯s pick up the


    kid, and move to A f. weddstatt


    warbarght Huge vi there.


    ith the kids...¡± Please read the


    original content at .


    Asurge of panic hit me, and | struggled violently, roaring, ¡°In your dreams.¡±


    His temper red at my resistance,


    ¡°Aaliyah, don¡¯t spurn a toast atelyn


    drink a forfeit. Weve bakfharm ny for


    yegns aid You really want to leave?


    Stop this madness. I''ve been dying


    for you. Let''s remember how well we


    fit together.¡± Please read the original


    content at .


    Outmatched in strength, he pinned me to the couch, his mouth lunging for a kiss.


    In desperation, | headbutted him. He recoiled in pain, and | seized the moment to break free.


    Reaching for the fruit knife on the coffee table, | pressed it against his approaching belly, ¡°Don¡¯t move...¡±

 Chapter 584

    Chapter 584


    Jan''s pupils shrank to pinpoints as hey stiffly on top of me.


    "Get off." | hissed, nudging the de forward for emphasis.


    Inside, | cursed silently, ¡°What the hell? Did he really think | was still that naive girl from ten years ago?¡±


    Reluctantly, with a re that could scorch, he stood up, his face twisted in rage, "Aaliyah, you''re ruthless."


    With the knife still pointed at him, | rose to my feet, matching his furious gaze, "Jan, you''ve brought all this on yourself. If you


    had even a shred of decency, we wouldn''t be here right now, not knowing where our own child is. You''re the biggest joke in


    Goldenvale Town. You better pray | find my kid soon, or | swear, I''ll make your life a living hell.


    ¡°Aaliyah, you listen to me. You better wire me some cash, or you''ll regret it." Jay knelt on the couch, his eyes zing with


    venomous fury.


    | backed out of the living area with a scoff, "You''re about to be homeless, and you''re making threats? Better keep an eye on this


    last ce you''ve got before Farley cuts you off for good. There are no more cheap lofts to crash at."


    With that, | turned and strode to the door, not looking back as | swung it open and stepped out.


    Hannah was outside, pacing anxiously. As soon as she saw me, she rushed over, looking me up and down, "Allie, are you


    okay?"


    Her eyes tightened when she noticed the knife in my hand, "What was..."


    "It''s nothing. Don''t worry." | tossed the paring knife into themunal trash bin, "Let''s talk downstairs.¡±


    We hurried down the stairs, but as fate would have it, we ran into Farley and Fannie on the second floor.


    Those two, shameless as ever, clung to each other like conjoined twins, their hands roaming uncontrobly over each other''s


    bodies. No wonder the neighbors were always cursing Farley out.


    He was a disgrace to his age.


    Just watching them made me sick.


    | stood on the staircase, looking down at the pair entangled as they ascended.


    Farley seemed to realize someone was above and stopped his wandering hands to look up, only to find me, looking down with


    utter contempt.


    He instinctively let go of Fannie and took a step back, trying to put some distance between them, his eyes shifting guiltily to mine.


    But then he remembered | was no longer part of their family, and his anger red, "You little tramp. What are you doing here?


    Why are you back?"


    | swept a disdainful nce at him, then at Fannie, and snorted, "You should worry about your son Jan. Watch out or he might


    just kick you out of your own nest. This is the house you bought with his money; if he decides to im it, you''ll have no more


    comers to turn tricks in."


    At my words, Farley stiffened, ring at me as though he wished he could skin me alive.


    | descended the steps, my eyes on Fannie, who had changed into a new skirt. | hadn''t seen her face clearly at the mall, but now


    she stood beside Farley, holding two bags and tilting her heavily made-up face with fiery red lips. | could smell her overpowering


    perfume long before | reached her.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    | must admit the perfume was actually nice, just overapplied.


    She looked at me with eyes full of spection. | gave her a derisive nce and, as | brushed past her, whispered, ¡°You guys are


    pretty much perfect for each other."


    Hannah smiled sarcastically and snapped, "Get out of the way."


    Farley was genuinely terrified of Hannah and instinctively took a step back.


    But after retreating, he felt disgraced and said, "This is not a ce where you cane whenever you want. Don''te here in


    the future. You are not a member of this family, and don''t alwayse back to stir up trouble."


    | had walked up to Fannie, who was wearing heels, and | wasn''t really as tall as her.


    But my aura was definitely not lost on her Because she was feeling guilty for cheating at the moment.


    | nced at her and whispered to her


    as | brushed past her, "Lady, nesring


    this hous likeotkapping your fate


    bane itons Tread lightly and


    grab what you can while you''re here.


    I''m rooting for you." Please read the


    original content at .


    Without lingering, | continued down the stairs with Hannah.


    Once we reached the bottom, we got into the car. Hannah mmed the door and turned to me, "What''s going on? What did he


    say?"


    | shook my head in frustration, "He has no idea where the kid is."


    "| knew it, that bastard''s never had good intentions." Hannah pressed on, "How did you find out?"


    | recounted to Hannah how I''d figured


    out Jan was ones bout aher |


    KBs bouts dfi¨¦ur Neild "It''s clear


    pone know a thing. He''s just a


    stupid pig." Please read the original


    content at .


    "And what were his demands?" she asked.


    |ughed bitterly, "A ne ticket to Australia and five million dors."


    "Christ, he really thinks he''s something? Acts like you''re his personal cash machine." Hannah scoffed.


    Her words had barely faded when we


    heard a loud crash. ss shattered)


    fram the fourth £¤icbr, an something


    flew out, smashing to the ground


    below. Please read the original


    content at .

 Chapter 585

    Chapter 585


    Both of us looked up at the same time, our gaze drawn to the moring from the Dawson residence.


    Hannah, ever the instigator, didn¡¯t hesitate to fling open the car door and hop out, and | found myself following suit.


    The neighbors, who had been idly chatting below, scattered like birds at the sound of a gunshot, craning their necks to see the


    source of themotion.


    | hung back, leaning nonchntly against the car, a smirk ying on my lips. This was the opening act of the Dawson father-son


    showdown, and | was all for the free entertainment.


    The crowd swelled, people whispering and chuckling, pointing up at the chaotic disy.


    Soon enough, Hannah came bouncing back, grinning ear to ear, "You won''t believe it, they chucked out a vibrator." she reported,


    laughing, "The neighbors are going nuts over it, snapping pics."


    Suddenly, another object was hurled from the window, and the onlookers scattered to avoid getting hit.


    The shouting from above grew more intense, the words more peppered with expletives that made even the most seasoned


    eavesdroppers blush.


    Then, down came a high heel, arcing gracefully through the air beforending among the crowd. | recognized it immediately. It


    was the same pair Fannie had been wearing when she stormed upstairs.


    | couldn''t help but chuckle at the chaos, motioning to Hannah, "Let''s roll. Stop wasting time here."


    She shed me a mischievous grin and hurriedly slid back into the car.


    Despite themotion, no one paid us any mind. Some of them knew me, and it would be quite an awkward scene if they


    spotted me in the midst of this spectacle.


    As Hannah buckled up, she couldn''t help butugh, "Allie, you really know when to add fuel to the fire, don''t you"


    | secured my own seatbelt, teasing back, "That¡¯s a golden opportunity to stir the pot. | couldn''t pass it up."


    Just as we were about to drive off, Jan emerged from the building, his cool demeanor slightly cracked, but still not giving the


    gawking crowd the satisfaction of his attention.


    Hands in his pockets, he swaggered past the crowd, heading for the exit without so much as a sideways nce.


    The crowd parted again, this time for Farley retrieving Fannie''s solitary high heel, his face a portrait of dejection as he shuffled


    back into the building.


    We left the Dawson neighborhood behind, and Hannah couldn''t stop giggling, "Oh man, that was priceless. You really know how


    to get a fire going. This is far from over."


    | replied with a nonchnt tone, "Just the beginning, trust me. The real show is yet toe."


    "| bet. Fannie''s a pot stirrer," Hannah said, practically bouncing in her seat, "Especially with your nudge, she''s bound to put on a


    performance."


    She turned to me, her eyes alight with mischief, "| should get Quincy to sneak a camera in there."


    | raised an eyebrow in disbelief, "Is that even possible?"


    Hannah''s smile turned smug. "Piece of cake. Just you wait."


    | warned her, "Don''t make a habit of this kind of thing,¡± but then | relented, "Though, for this one time, it might be worth it. I''m


    curious to see if Fannie will live up to my expectations. | did tell her that I''m rooting for her.""


    Hannah erupted intoughter again.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Once sheposed herself, she grew serious, "We should keep an eye on Jan. He didn''t get his payday and he won''t let it


    go that easily."


    "| think Irving might be onto something. Jan could very well own property in Australia," | mused, "Earlier, | prodded him about


    AzureEnchantress."


    Hannah leaned in eagerly, "What did he say?"


    "He tried to y it cool, but he got


    flustered when | mentioned Zora¡¯


    last words about hin@ant CO


    AzyreBdhshtress. He slipped up,


    said he never met her," | recounted,


    mimicking Jan''s reaction to


    Hannah. Please read the original


    content at .


    "Never met her? So what''s the dirty


    secret between them?" PEM


    pondered her exores¨¦idrrgrave,


    Sarah ntress is a mystery.


    We''ve hit dead ends, but all signs


    point to her." Please read the original


    content at .


    "One thing''s for sure," | said,


    "Jerome''s the one who connected


    Jan with AzureEnghantress Os


    ledKitn to ruin. Jan


    called her a crazy, greedy woman,


    iming she was after his money


    without even showing her face."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "Who is AzureEnchantress, really?" Hannah murmured, lost in thought.


    "Don''t forget about the High-rollers Hangout group," | reminded her, "There''s more at y here, and it''s not just


    AzureEnchantress pulling the strings.¡±

 Chapter 586

    Chapter 586


    The car was coasting down the same street where we''d seen Medsafe Liyah Inc. when suddenly, | spotted Renata¡¯s sleek sedan


    pulling out of the parking garage, a shadowy figure sitting shotgun.


    ¡°Look, there''s Renata¡¯s ride,¡± | blurted out to Hannah.


    ¡°| see it. What are the odds?¡± Hannah chuckled, ¡°Talk about perfect timing. We wrap up our errands and so do they?¡±


    l ignored her jest, urging her on, ¡°There''s someone with her. Slow down, can we tail them and get a look at this guy? If the


    timing¡¯s right, he¡¯s probably hertest fling. I''ve got to see who it is.¡± As | spoke, Renata¡¯s car zipped in front of us.


    Hannah, instantly thrilled by the prospect, eximed, ¡°Roger that.¡±Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    We followed Renata''s car discreetly, but the chase took an interesting turn as she headed towards the municipal office district.


    She didn¡¯t stop out front but looped around to the secluded garden area in the back.


    ¡°Damn, must be someone from the building,¡± Hannah murmured under her breath.


    We hung back, parking across from a row of gpoles.


    Hannah whipped out her smartphone, snapping photos of Renata¡¯s car relentlessly.


    After an age, the passenger door swung open, and a man stepped out. He was cautious, darting across the green space toa


    path on the other side.


    Renata¡¯s car didn¡¯t linger, taking off down the road and out of the garden area of the officeplex.


    | lost interest in Renata¡¯s departure, fixated on the man who had exited her car. His back was to us as he strode towards the


    office building. Something about him seemed familiar.


    ¡°| know him from somewhere,¡± | muttered, unable to ce him without seeing his face.


    Hannah, still capturing the scene on her phone, heard me and offered, ¡°Should | go for a closer look?¡±


    ¡°No time. Look, he''s about to go inside,¡± | replied with a hint of regret, ¡°We''ll have to zoom in on those photoster. But | swear


    he looks so familiar.¡±


    Just as | was about to divert my gaze, as the man reached the entrance, he nced back over his shoulder, as if to double-


    check his trail.


    That one look sent shivers down my spine. Frozen, | stared at the man who¡¯d already turned away and slipped inside the


    building.


    Hannah lowered her phone, her eyes locked on the same spot, ¡°No way, did | just see that?¡±


    Our eyes met, both of us dumbstruck.


    Amomentter, Hannah frantically scrolled through the images for the one where the man looked back. | leaned in as she


    zoomed in on the pivotal frame, then passed the phone to me in disbelief. ¡°It really is him.¡±


    I snatched the phone, zooming in further and holding it at arm¡¯s length.


    Then, my arm slumped down limply.


    My brain was in a tailspin.


    | slumped back in my seat, clutching


    my hands tightly a aicentoP


    @udhtPrlocded my mind.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Hannah looked at me, helpless, murmuring, ¡°Allie, what do we do?¡±


    It took ages for me to gather my


    thoughts, my grip tightening eforell


    handed b ok thephofiel Arter a long


    take ey said, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk


    about it now. | need to think.¡± Please


    read the original content at


    .


    After a while, | told Hannah, ¡°Let¡¯s head back.¡±


    She started the car, and we drove in


    silence back to Serena.ggrdahO


    (Neaherloe us spoke a word


    the entire way. Please read the


    original content at .


    This was a devastating revtion, and | had no idea how to handle it.

 Chapter 587

    Chapter 587


    When we returned to Serene Garden Homes, the ce was deserted.


    | flopped onto the couch, watching as Hannah lugged in a heap of shopping bags.


    She caught sight of my slumped figure and said, "I''ll just take these to your room."


    ¡°Hold up.¡± | waved her over. She dropped the bags at my feet, and | sorted through them, pointing at a pile, "These are for you,


    Hannah. Just take them to your room.¡±


    She blinked in surprise, "No way, these aren''t my style."


    | gave her a stern look, "What do you mean not your style? You''re not inbat every day. It''s time you look a bit more like a


    lady and dress up for yourself. You hear me? Silly girl."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "But it''s not proper." She scratched her head, looking troubled, "I can''t just ept this."


    ¡°Proper? Who are you reporting to? Just take it. If Ronan assigned you to me, then you follow my lead. You''re ountable to


    me. And this is a work requirement," | insisted. "Forget about always being so rigid. In my house, you follow my rules."


    She shot back with a tease, "Geez, talk about being bossy, Allie."


    "This isn''t bossy, and it''s necessary. You can''t always be in cargo pants and a white tee. You''re not supposed to be shy, but


    you''ve got to show a hint of femininity, especially with a face as pretty as yours." | stretched out on the couch, "Oh man, I''m beat.


    Emotionally drained."


    Hannah knew exactly what | meant. She plopped down beside me, and we sat there, staring at each other inmiseration.


    "Why are guys such a headache?" she muttered, covering her face and slumping against the back of the couch, "I regret taking


    that route back. If | hadn''t gone that way today, would | have been spared the aggravation?"


    "That''s just fooling yourself. If you hadn''t taken that route, would the incident have never happened? Just because we didn''t see


    it doesn''t mean it didn''t ur," | murmured.


    "How are we going to break this to her?" Hannah asked, her eyes meeting mine, "I''m worried for you."


    | pondered for a while, "She''s sharp and doesn''t beat around the bush, but it''s not this I''m fretting over, and it''s something else."


    "What is it?" Hannah pressed.


    | felt anxious, my head pounding.


    Just then, Logan walked in and found us sprawled on the couch, "What''s this? Shopped till you dropped?"


    I sat up and asked, "Where''s Catherine?"


    "Catherine? She does her own thing, she''s not glued to my side." Logan dropped onto the couch as well.


    | absentmindedly replied.


    Logan eyed me, "You seem off. What''s up?"


    | nced at Logan, "Actually, | ran into a bit of trouble. It''s quite a pickle.¡±


    "Spill it."


    | signaled Hannah, who quickly pulled up a recent video on her phone.


    She handed the phone to Logan.


    He watched the video with a poker face, then suddenly sat up straighter and reyed it.


    "When was this taken?" he asked.


    ¡°Twenty minutes ago," Hannah replied.


    | looked at Logan seriously, "Surprised? Shocked?"


    Logan, clutching the phone, fell silent


    for amoment before making a qui


    phone call. at re karvesation


    Henuad UbAnd faced me, "Allie, you


    really should get out more. You''ve


    stumbled upon a big issue." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    "What do you mean?" | pressed.


    "You''ve uncovered a mystery we couldn''t solve. We''ve suspected there might be a mole, but we could never pin down who it


    could be. And to think, it''s him."


    | gasped, "You mean he''s involved? It''s his doing?"


    "It''s pretty obvious, isn''t it?" Logan waved the phone. "Bribery in all forms. And this is one of them."


    "Sexual bribery?" | whispered the words.


    "That''s a test of character, and sadly,


    he failed," Logan said gravely, "We''ve


    been analyzing this fosaqyhi@@nd


    an vareftto cover his tracks.


    If you hadn''t discovered this today, it


    might have taken us much longer.


    Allie, you''ve done us a huge favor."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    ¡°But what should | do?" | said with a pained expression, "She''s like a sister to me. She''s helped me so much. I..."


    | couldn''t continue.


    "For now, you can''t tell her. If she finds out, the ramifications could be unimaginable and unpredictable." Logan cautioned, "Let''s


    discuss it with Ronanter."


    "But what''s urgent isn''t this issue, it''s


    the other thing that we''re all awa


    of. There''s ac page Reltate inight


    Haye asahcaily transmitted disease.


    If we don''t speak up, the


    consequences could be dire." Please


    read the original content at


    .

 Chapter 588

    Chapter 588


    My words made Logan pause too.


    "That''s the real reason I''m so anxious." | said with a wry smile, "It''s terrifying. You know, at first, she was just trying to help me by


    setting Jan up, and now..."


    | couldn''t go on. The chain reaction hade full circle back to her.


    Logan gave us a signal to calm down, "Hold on. It''s not as bad as you think. My advice is let''s think this through.¡±


    The mood was somber among us all.


    Ronan hadn''t made it back for dinner.


    | had nned to book a flight back to Silverdale City tomorrow, but with everything that had happened, | couldn''t just up and


    leave.


    That night, a storm broke out of nowhere. Lightning streaked across the sky, scaring Milo so much that he leaped onto the bed


    and snuggled close, his eyes gleaming like tiny beacons.


    It reminded me of that ¡°cat eye¡± still lurking in Silverdale City.


    The howling wind andshing rain outside mirrored the turmoil in my heart. After the divorce, | thought everything would settle


    down. | wanted nothing more than to live a simple life with my kids, close to my parents. But one thing after another kept


    happening.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Today''s turn of events was something | had never anticipated. It felt like a bacsh.


    Why | was pulled into this mess was beyond me.


    A sh of headlights pierced through the curtains that hadn''t been drawn tight, followed by the sound of a car.


    l instantly perked up, rolling out of bed and fumbling for my slippers in the dark. | grabbed a throw nket, wrapping it around


    myself as | hurried outside.


    | had a feeling it was Ronaning back.


    Somehow, without even realizing it, my heart had started to depend on him. Some things just needed his nod for me to have


    absolute confidence.


    As | dashed down the stairs, | saw that it was indeed Ronan who had returned, and Logan was still up, lounging in his pajamas.


    on the couch.


    Ronan, fresh from the outside, was still in his ck shirt and trousers, amanding aura about him.


    Seeing mee down, Logan sat up, shedding hiszy demeanor.


    "Why are you still up?" Ronan asked with concern, "You shouldn''t be staying awake all night."


    "| can''t sleep," | replied softly, tightening the shawl around my shoulders, "The rain''s too heavy."


    | turned to Logan and asked quietly, "Did you tell him?"


    Logan nodded, then showed Ronan the video clip. "This is what she recorded today. I''ve arranged for it to be investigated, but no


    leads yet. This guy''s really covered his tracks."


    Ronan zoomed in on the image, his mouth curving slightly with regret, "I never would''ve thought it was Noah."


    "He''s had amendable track record these past years, bringing in a number of sessful ventures. We were just starting to


    focus on grooming him. What a shame." Ronan murmured, "| never suspected him."


    "So how do | break this to Geneva?" | ventured, "The thing is, Renata might be infected. And Geneva..."


    | saw Ronan sink into thought, so | stopped talking.


    After a while, Logan spoke up, "This is tricky. We can''t tip off Noah too soon. Given his position, those behind the scenes must


    be aware. If we handle this poorly, it could set off a chain reaction."


    | looked anxiously at Ronan, my hands clenched and a chill running down my spine.


    After a long silence, Ronan turned to me, "Allie, | have a task for you."


    | nodded eagerly.


    "Arrange to meet with Geneva


    privately. Have a heart-to-heart with


    her, and try to get a Sens ofheo''!!


    fealings forNdeh Tesi the waters,"


    he instructed with a firm gaze, "We


    need to understand her true feelings


    for Noah to n our next move."


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "Okay," | agreed, feeling a sudden surge of nerves.


    "Rx and be natural. Geneva is a smart woman, and don''t startle her," Ronan advised.


    | nodded again, but my anxiety remained. After all, Geneva''s family was at stake.


    That night, | barely slept, gued by nightmares.


    In the morning, | stared at the dark


    circles under my e ginche inst!


    aciualifel sense of relief.


    Please read the original content atChapter


    When | came down for breakfast, Ronan asked softly, "Didn''t sleep well?"


    | gave a half-hearted smile, evita


    eyebrow at hi ¡°Mayon these Ste the


    best iadps Phave.* Please read the


    original content at .

 Chapter 589

    Chapter 589


    Grasping my concerns, Ronan slid a freshly grilled cheese sandwich my way. "You should look after yourself," he advised, "I''ll


    have someone check out Hilltop Retreats thoroughly today. Leave the keys with me. It''s a good excuse to drop off some stuff.


    There''s probably someone keeping tabs on you."


    ¡°Someone''s watching me?" | asked a hint of rm in my voice.


    "It''s par for the course, considering you''re a person of interest to them. Using the house delivery as a pretext to monitor your


    movements, and that''s where the real value lies." Ronan exined with a reassuring tone, "But don''t worry, and the more they


    watch, the safer you are."


    | shrugged helplessly and looked at him, my voice tinged with a mix of humor and frustration, "Tell me, how did | end up living in


    a spy thriller?"


    He smiled softly, "It''s not your fault. It''s their intrusiveness that''s to me."


    | shared with Ronan about my encounter with Jan from the previous day, including the situation between Jan and


    AzureEnchantress.


    He nodded, "We''ve been keeping an eye on that High-rollers Hangout for a while now. AzureEnchantress is cunning and never


    shows face in public. So it''s no surprise Jan says he''s never seen them."


    "Do you think Jerome could be tight with AzureEnchantress?" | asked as | grabbed a slice of toast and thered it with jam,


    sighing deeply, "When ites down to it, Jan''s downfall was by Jerome''s hand."


    "That''s hard to say. Jerome has been lying low, not making a move."


    "That means he''s up to no good. By the looks of it, Jan is just a pawn to be sacrificed."


    "Jan was never cut out for greatness anyway. Not the sharpest tool in the shed," Ronan quipped.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    | couldn''t help but snort withughter, "That''s one way to put it, and you might as well have called him an idiot."


    Ronan chuckled too, "Not exactly. More like his brain isn''t wired for the serious stuff. Without Jerome, he would''ve been a non-


    starter, bound to run Medsafe Liyah Inc. into the ground. He''s got no head for business. He could run a corner store just fine, and


    that''s about it.¡±


    My face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and anger, and | dared not meet his gaze anymore. Talk about a p in the face.


    | had managed to be outyed by an idiot and if that was not a reality check, what was?


    "You shouldn''t beat yourself up. The mistake wasn''t yours." Ronan, as if reading my mind, spoke directly to my insecurities.


    ¡°And if I''m not wrong, who is?" | retorted, "| always thought I was too smart to be conned."


    "There''s a saying, and it''s never toote to mend. You learn from your mistakes," Ronan said, eating his breakfast with an


    elegance that somehow didn''t quite match the Ronan | knew.


    Internally, | contested his optimism, ¡°Not toote? | had wasted ten years of my youth, left only with three children and one


    missing. A good hand yed terribly.¡±


    Sometimes | wondered, was it all Jan''s fault? My so-called intelligence was just a facade. In reality, | was just as immature.


    "Don''t overthink it. Don''t weigh yourself down, and everything will turn out fine. You''re doing great."


    I gave a rueful smile, "Alright, enoughforting me.¡±


    Eager to change the subject, | mentioned, "I''m meeting with Genevater."


    "Good," he said, ncing at me, "try to rx. Act as if nothing has happened. Everyone goes through trials, and what you see


    isn''t always the reality. So, the Geneva you meet may not be as happy as she seems."


    His words made me pause. Maybe he was right.


    After finishing breakfast, | hadn''t


    even had a chance to call Genev


    when Catheri fangi@hbouheing er


    repinriad SiWerdale City. The shoot on


    Oldtown Avenue was scheduled for


    next Tuesday, and she wanted to


    know if I''d be back. Please read the


    original content at .


    "| should be able to make it back.


    Once | sort out the house situati


    here, |''Il return, egptiedlS CO


    ronecivirhittally, my mind upied


    with whether | could actually leave


    given the current circumstances.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    "Alright, then I''ll wait for you in


    Silverdale City. Give meya.calthefore


    you c andi pick you up if I''m


    f OTS ne''s voice bubbled with


    affection. Please read the original


    content at .


    "Sure, you do your thing. | can head back anytime."


    "You were right about one thing, and the food on Oldtown Avenue is to die for," sheughed through the phone, "We''ll hit the


    town when you''re back."


    "Okay. Gotta go," | said, my patience waning, "before you drain my phone battery."


    She teased me onest time, "That''s a skill I''ve mastered since childhood. Talkter."


    | shook my head with a smile, this girl was pure joy. Hopefully, she''d always keep that happiness going.


    | paced for a few moments, gathering my thoughts before dialing Geneva''s number.

 Chapter 590

    Chapter 590


    The phone rang a few times before Geneva picked up. Her voice floated through the speaker, "Aaliyah? You didn''t leave?"


    "Yep," | replied, trying to sound downcast, "Didn''t work out. You free today?¡±


    Geneva drew out a long okay then said, "Spill it. | had a little something lined up, nothing major, and | can ditch it."


    ¡°What time''s your thing?" | probed.


    "Been feeling offtely, booked a doc to get checked out," Geneva confessed, "Thinking it might be menopause kicking in."


    My heart tightened, ¡°Feeling off?¡±


    My mind raced, but | kept my tone steady, "Come on. You''re too young for the change. What''s this feeling off about? Listen, how


    about | tag along? Let Hannah drive us, and it''ll be easier. I''ve got nothing on today, feeling kind of blocked up inside. We could


    use each other''spany."


    "That''d be awesome, thanks to Hannah," Geneva''s voice brightened.


    She''d always thought highly of Hannah, so yesterday''s drama had Hannah tied up in knots too.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "What time''s your appointment? Hannah''s just finishing up breakfast. We can head out once she''s done. Wait for us at home," |


    laid out the n to Geneva.


    "9 AM."


    Perfect timing and Hannah had just finished her breakfast and came out.


    "Get ready then. She''s done eating, and we''ll be right over," | told Geneva and hung up.


    ¡°Hold on, and let me grab some stuff upstairs, then we can leave for Geneva''s," | said to Hannah.


    She paused, clearly confused because she hadn''te downstairs the night before and was out of the loop on the task Ronan


    had given me.


    | dashed upstairs, changed into a skirt, grabbed my bag, and hurried back down.


    Ronan was heading out too and lit up when he saw me, "Heading out now?"


    "Geneva''s got an appointment with a doctor, and I''m keeping herpany," | reported.


    He nodded, "After the doctor, take her to Hilltop Retreats. I''ve got the chef on standby. It''s a quiet spot with convenient eats."


    Joy bubbled up inside me, and my voice couldn''t hide my delight, "Really?"


    He cocked an eyebrow and shrugged nonchntly.


    I snapped my fingers, "Deal. | was just wondering where to go. You''re a lifesaver."


    "You''re doing my bidding, and the least | can do is make sure you''re sorted," Ronan shed a pearly white grin, oozing charm.


    His face was bing a familiarfort.


    "So, am | on the payroll then?" | teased, "Can''t let my hard work go unpaid."


    Ronan tapped me on the head lightly, "Money-grubber.¡±


    "Hey. No more tapping the noggin, okay? My IQ''s barely hanging on as is, and you''ll knock me into idiocy." | protested, rubbing


    my head as | moved towards the door.


    Then something hit me, "Addrion wanted us to grab a meal together. Did he mention it?"


    He nodded, looking at me, "You up for it?"


    "| told him to check with you. It''s your call, and I''m easy," | replied, stepping out.


    ¡°Eat here. Other ces just don''t cut it," he said, "I''ll set it up."


    ¡°Catherine said the Silverdale City Oldtown Avenue promo kicks off Tuesday, so | might need to head back. Anytime before that''s


    fine."


    "Got it. I''ll remember.¡±


    We left the house, got into our respective cars, and drove off to our destinations.


    In the car, Hannah asked how we ended up meeting with Geneva. Then | filled her in on the job Ronan had given me.


    Arriving at the Atwood family residence, | quickly checked with Geneva, "So, what''s been bothering you?"


    Hannah nced at Geneva through the rearview mirror at my question, and | could tell she was taken aback too.


    "It''s nothing major, just constant tiredness, andck of energy," Geneva replied, sending shivers down my spine.


    "Seriously, | think you should get a


    proper check-up at the hospi


    Might be hg hpatanebe been


    ane aiee, too," | suggested,


    hoping to get her a thorough


    examination. Please read the original


    content at .


    "Don''t worry, and it''s nothing serious.


    If it was, I''d be at the hospital


    already," Geneva sy oyyahadit GO"


    "ADIUAAR''S Abarly here, and | thought


    I''d try some herbal remedies. Heard


    this doctor''s got a reputation." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    ¡°Okay, then I''ll get a consultation too." | feigned excitement, "It''s been ages since I''ve seen a naturopath."


    Geneva eyed me carefully, "You look run-down. Have you been sleeping okay? You''ve got dark circles under your eyes."


    "How could | sleep well?" | managed a wry smile, "With one child out there, who knows if he''s okay."


    Geneva fell silent, giving my hand a


    comforting pat. "Don''t stress, we''ll


    find your child. To think fee ¡®dba


    3 ling wit wittha@dss: she sighed,


    ee scowling at the mention of


    Jan. "That lowlife left me at a loss


    for words. His level of cheating is


    really something else." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    "Cheating men are the worst," | muttered darkly, "It''s bad enough as is, but | had to get stuck with the worst of the lot."


    "No one should tolerate that." Geneva dered with unwavering conviction.

 Chapter 591

    Chapter 591


    Hearing Geneva''s words, my heart plummeted to rock bottom.


    But | feared diving into the topic right away, and we might get cut off before we even reached the meat of the conversation. So, |


    deftly changed the subject, chatting about this and that in a casual, desultory way.


    The doctor she had booked was quite elderly, silver-haired, and had an air of authority about him.


    He told her she''d been overwrought with worry, which was messing with her system, hence the sleepless nights and general


    fatigue.


    | felt a bit of relief knowing that Geneva had her anxieties.


    The old doctor prescribed her some mild herbal remedies, advising her to take them for a while to bnce things out before


    coming back for a follow-up.


    Geneva had him take a look at me too, and he trotted out the same old lines about fatigue and deficiency. | mentioned | was


    already on some meds, so he didn''t prescribe anything for me.


    We left the holistic health center and got into the car together. | turned to Geneva and said, "Geneva, I''m gonna take you to a


    ce you''ll adore, beautiful views, great food, and drinks."


    Her curiosity piqued by my enthusiasm, she pressed, "A ce like that exists? | can''t miss out on that."


    "You''ll see when we get there."


    | told Hannah, "Let''s head back to Hilltop Heights."


    Hannah looked at me, surprised, "You mean, we can cook there?¡±


    "Oh, just you watch. Let''s roll out."


    With that, Hannah''s excitement kicked in, and she started the car, driving us swiftly and smoothly straight to Hilltop Retreats.


    Walking into my yard, Geneva''s eyes sparkled with envy. She prodded me, "Aaliyah, is this a new piece of property you''ve


    snagged?"


    | replied with a sigh, "Well, | needed a ce tond. | sold the old house, too many bad memories, and Jan wouldn''t stop


    haunting the ce. After a decade there, | was fed up. So | sold it without a second thought. This ce caught my eye with its


    lovely environment."


    | gave her the grand tour. It had just rained, so the air was especially fresh, filled with bird songs and the scent of flowers. The


    leaves were so green they seemed to almost sparkle with life.


    "It''s like a natural oxygen bar," Geneva eximed, "The environment is incredible here. I''d be content with a ce like this."


    |ughed, "That''s easy, just move in with me. Leave Noah at home,e stay here a few days whenever you like, and it''ll be


    like a vacation."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    | looked at her seriously, "I''m not often in Goldenvale Town, so when I''m away, consider it your personal retreat. When I''m here,


    we can both enjoy a little leisure time."


    "| don¡¯t think so. What about Noah and the kid?" Geneva gave me a side-eye, half-joking, "I wish | had your life, no worries about


    feeding a family, someone to watch the kid, and a solid financial backing to boot."


    "Don''t be so pessimistic,¡± | teased her, "Are you really struggling? Noah''s got the finances on lock, he wouldn''t let you suffer."


    Geneva''s expression clouded for a moment, her gaze lingering on the scenery beyond.


    | probed yfully, "What''s the matter, not recognizing your good fortune? So many people envy you, and you''re still not


    satisfied?"


    She gave me a resigned smile.


    I led her to a gazebo by the terrace and sent Hannah to fetch some food from the new cook.


    "We''ll sit here and cool off a bit," | told


    Geneva, "Then, I''ll show you ce


    e


    some rig, yRDULh et


    doligh me, just call Noah and tell


    him you''re staying at my ce


    tonight." Please read the original


    content at .


    ¡°What about the kid?" she asked with a smile, "Right now, out of all of us, you really have the easiest life."


    "Yeah, my mom''s my rock," | nodded, "How about you? How are your parents doing?"


    "My mom passed away a while back,"


    she sighed, "Just my dad lef inn


    Marblecliff alg conidriled, 80 | don''t


    Have td orry much. With my mom


    no longer around, it feels like I''ve lost


    my support system" Please read the


    original content at .


    ¡°Right, do you visit Marblecliff often?" | inquired.


    "Not much," she admitted, "He''s got


    hispanion. They''re een


    travelin noxthytersalthl ahd think


    hares mission to see the whole


    country. The older generation knows


    how to enjoy life." Please read the


    original content at .


    Our conversation drifted from topic to topic until Hannah arrived with a spread of snacks, cautioning us not to fill up as the cook


    was preparing a feast.

 Chapter 592

    Chapter 592


    | nced over the spread of snacksid out in front of me and couldn''t help but smile. My favorites, pretzels, potato chips, anda


    variety of dips, were all there, a sure sign that Ronan had a hand in this.


    Back in our school days, the three of us would munch on these same treats.


    Hannah, ever so observant, didn''t miss a beat. She told me she''d be in the kitchen if | needed her and then she was off, leaving


    me alone with Geneva for some catch-up time.


    Turning back to our conversation, | nudged Geneva, "You could consider moving to a new ce."


    She sighed, a hint of frustration in her voice, "Why bother? It''s good enough for now. You wouldn''t believe how many times I''ve


    butted heads with Noah about this."


    "He''s not on board?¡±


    "Don''t get me started. I''ve been wanting to move for ages. We''ve been in that house for more than a decade, surrounded by


    those government folks. It''s suffocating. Maybe it''s just my nature to crave something new."


    Sheughed at herself then continued, "I told him we don''t need a mansion, just something a bit bigger, in a nicer location. But


    Noah won''t budge. He says we''re settled here, with neighbors who respect his government position. Why rock the boat and


    invite criticism?"


    | nodded, "Yeah, | get it. Those types are always watching, aren''t they?"


    "Exactly," Geneva said, the weight of the world seeming to press on her shoulders, "If we moved, who knows what they''d start


    saying behind our backs?"


    | couldn''t help but challenge her, "Isn''t it a shame? He devotes his life to public service and yet he can''t even try to better his


    living situation without people making a fuss about it.¡±Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°Noah''s just overly cautious, always ying it safe so he doesn''t step on the wrong toes," she scoffed, "Janice had it right. To our


    faces, they call me Mrs. Atwood with a smile. But that''s not respect for me, and it''s for the bit of power Noah holds. People are so


    self-serving these days."


    | nodded in agreement. She hit the nail on the head.


    ¡°But in private? They whisper and judge. Makes me think twice about treating myself to a nice dress," Geneva said, herugh


    tinged with irony.


    "Is it really that bad?" | asked, incredulous, "That''s too much. You have your own business, after all."


    "Trust me, they don''t see the businesswoman, only the new dress," Geneva said with a harsh dose of reality.


    "That''s gotta sting," |miserated.


    "Doesn''t it?" she said with a sardonic smile, then continued, "On the flip side, if | don¡¯t keep up appearances, they talk about how


    shabby | look. In this neighborhood, it''s a constantpetition, husbands, kids, houses, money, anything, and everything, even


    down to who has the prettiest toenails.¡±


    | burst intoughter at her hyperbole, "Come on, that''s a bit much."


    ¡°I''m not exaggerating one bit."


    | nodded solemnly, "I''ve seen it too,


    especially among women. It''s


    terrifying. | remember a saleswoman


    back at thepany. She bare!


    made any dea een& pitta ce,


    apniistillpardded around in designer


    clothes. She wasn''t fooling anyone,


    and it was clear she was living


    beyond her means. She can''t afford


    these designerbels by virtue of her


    ie, but she wears them,


    obviously from the wrong source to


    the point where everyone


    understands her vanity." Please read


    the original content at


    .


    Geneva nodded, "Exactly. Thispetitive spirit is suffocating. But in business, we have some leeway. In public service, there¡¯s


    no such freedom."


    She leaned in and whispered, "Even if we have the money, we''re scared to spend it, to avoid gossip."


    "So what?" | countered, "Let them talk. You''ve got a sessful shop, why should you care?"


    "Thank goodness for the shop, at least," Geneva admitted, her frustration apparent, "All these years, I''ve watched others make


    money while I¡¯ve had to hold back."


    "Noah''s a steady guy," | offered,


    throwing apliment his w. Yy He


    takes car of youcain¨¦S)on two havea


    dod ait going. Be content with


    that, and it''s quite a blessing." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    She let out a sigh, "As time goes by,


    marriage bes more about mM


    COM) Pen UN EN arhfthing Stee.


    THpspark\st romance tends to fade,


    and when it does, we''re just left to


    navigate life side by side." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    | sensed the deeper currents in her words and pressed on, eager to explore this vein.

 Chapter 593

    Chapter 593


    "Give it a rest. You''re only a few years older than me and already sounding like the world''s ending. | must''ve been blind to get


    mixed up with that bastard Jan. Compared to you, I''ve got nothing. If | were you, I''d be content."


    | said it with casual ease, counting off on my fingers, "You don''t have to ve away at the shop every day, and your kid''s growing


    up smart. Noah''s career is smooth sailing, and he''s got everyone''s respect. What more could you ask for?"


    Geneva chuckled dryly, not saying a word, her gaze drifting over the distant coastline. It took her a while to speak up, "You know


    what they say, only your own feet know whether the shoes fit."


    "You feel they don''t?" | blurted out, then added, "Don''t set the bar so high. At least Noah hasn''t been caught fooling around, and


    that''s something to be grateful for." | felt a pang in my heart as | said that.


    The scene from yesterday shed before my eyes that Noah was getting out of Renata''s car in a hurry, that image lingering


    persistently.


    It seems like men have a natural knack for infidelity.


    Geneva opened her mouth to say something but then stopped short.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    She just gave a smile in the end.


    A thought struck me, sensing that Geneva had more to say butcked the courage.


    | seized the moment to press her, "You look like you''ve got something on your mind. It''s just us sisters here today, spit it out and


    relieve your heart and tongue of the weight. Otherwise, it''s just too suffocating.¡±


    | picked up a fig and handed it to her, "Here, have a bite."


    Then | popped a piece of cookie into my mouth, "You know all about my mess. I''m not ashamed. Look at the state of my life, with


    a husband who''s a regr Casanova and a child who''s vanished without a trace. How much worse could it get for you?"


    | spoke with a rapid frankness.


    She sighed deeply and said in a low voice, "Actually, | don''t really have much to say, just that something about Noah has seemed


    off these past two years. If you asked me to pinpoint it, | couldn''t, maybe I''m just being paranoid."


    She was finally opening up.


    Awave of excitement washed over me, prying open her lips was no easy feat. Geneva wasn''t someone who opened up easily.


    | felt both happy and guilty, but | had to do it.


    | immediately responded to her sentiment, "! don''t see it that way at all. | believe women''s intuition is incredibly urate."


    After saying that, | quickly rified, "I don''t mean anything by it. It''s just honestly how | feel. Maybe you can call it a lesson


    learned from experience. Geneva, trust me, just tell me and I''ll help you analyze it. It''s just us today, and you know I''m not one


    for gossip. Actually, I''m just feeling down today. My kid''s gone, and Jan still covets my money. He even tried to use a lead on


    my child to deceive me yesterday. Can you believe that? Is he even human?"


    | intentionally dangled my own embarrassing bait, coaxing her to find the courage to speak. | knew it wasn''t the most honorable


    approach, but without getting to the truth, Ronan couldn''t take the next step to help her. Otherwise, I''d still be failing her. |


    couldn''t just watch Geneva get blindsided and torn apart.


    As for Noah''s situation, trouble was inevitable. He had broken the cardinal rules.


    He had fallen into a trap and was ensnared by fatal temptation.


    One day, he would pay the price for his actions.


    What''s more, it was still unclear


    whether he had been ne ected witht |


    ? srlfihe de id € passed it


    eneva, the loss would be


    aa Please read the


    original content at .


    Thinking of these reasons, | felt justified and met Geneva''s gaze head-on.


    "You don''t trust me?" | asked.


    Geneva hurriedly waved her hand,


    "What are you talking about? Of


    course, | trust you. I''ve got my ee


    too, always thinking too ad


    myself, n Lmanypeuplee ee


    eyaltd e honest, at first, | ie te


    you much attention. If it hadn''t been


    for my friendship with Catherine, we


    wouldn''t have be friends. Truth


    be told, you''re more sensitive and


    decisive than Catherine, someone


    who can make decisions without


    wobbling. That''s something | really


    admire about you." Please read the


    original content at .


    Hearing Geneva say this, | pped


    the table, "You got thebtight asa ''


    fe) the sare About you." Please read


    the original content at


    .

 Chapter 594

    Chapter 594


    She looked at me with eyes brimming with contentment and a smile that spoke volumes of her delight.


    | couldn''t contain my excitement and blurted out, "To me, you''re like the go-to gal. Whenever I¡¯ve got something on my mind, |


    just wanna chew the fat with you. Getting your seal of approval just settles my nerves."


    We both had that betterte than never kind of joy as we stood up, beaming with happiness.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s incredible, honestly. | haven''t had a chat this carefree and enjoyable in ages." Geneva said, taking my hand in hers.


    We walked together to the balcony railing, basking in the mountain breeze, utterly at ease.


    If it weren¡¯t for the mission weighing on my heart, this moment would be perfect.


    Geneva gazed out at the distant ocean, "You know, a good friend like this you don''t need an army, just one or two will do."


    "You''re right. | can have a heart-to-heart with Catherine, too, but she¡¯s quick on the draw. | have to take a beat before | spill the


    beans, or she''ll just jump the gun. Thatst ordeal nearly gave me a heart attack."


    "No kidding? Scared me to death too." Geneva turned back to look at me.


    "You know, Catherine is the apple of the Damon family''s eye. She only moved to Goldenvale Town to follow me. Can you


    imagine if something went wrong because of me? Geneva, how on earth would | exin it to the Damon family if something went


    wrong?"


    "| get it. Catherine''s told me she just can''t stand the thought of being apart from you."


    "That''s just it," | continued, "Catherine¡¯s great for a shoulder to cry on, but not the one to make decisions. You''re the one | can


    really talk turkey with."


    Geneva beamed with satisfaction, squeezing my hand, "You''re spot on. That''s exactly how | feel about you.¡±


    Then she shifted the topic, ¡°Honestly, it''s nothing major. Just I''ve got this nagging doubt about Noah. In thest couple of years,


    he''s been full of excuses, and well, let''s just say the marital bliss has been on the wane. It''s not that I''m fixated on the sex, but |


    just feel he is a bit cold now." Geneva hesitated before looking at me, "You know what | mean?"


    | nodded with certainty, "Yeah, | get it.¡±


    "Think about it. If a couple''s not intimate, what''s left? They might as well be strangers, familiar strangers."


    | had to ask, "Has it really dwindled that much?"


    With a touch of embarrassment but serious nheless, Geneva nodded, "Yes, it has. He also seems to be less interested in


    me.


    | pretended to be puzzled, "That''s odd, isn''t it? You guys are at that age they say is prime. Maybe he''s just really busy?"


    "He''s busy, sure, but not too busy for... It''s so awkward to say." Geneva chuckled, covering her mouth, "We didn''t even have sex


    for a month or two."


    | responded immediately, "That does seem off. Was it always like this?"


    She shook her head, "No, not at all. He used to be quite keen, at least a couple of times a week."


    | felt a pang of sympathy for her, sensing that something was amiss with Noah.


    "He always says he''s busy or tired, or


    hees home Seale That''s nae


    feel une ROBES. ve been


    RAS os on him for a while, and |


    haven''t caught him out on anything."


    Geneva continued. Please read the


    original content at .


    "You''ve been tracking his movements?" | asked, surprised.


    "I''ve been watching him discreetly for


    some time. He''s punctual with w


    and even thou ha dodsn''t Shays


    gave Aa tie, | know he''s often still


    at the office. It''s bizarre, but there''s


    nothing out of ce. Isn''t it strange?"


    Please read the original content at


    .


    | looked at her solemnly, "There''s


    something I''m not sure | should d say,


    but let''s just oe itup too eo


    Heartaoheatt oday. What if | asked


    Logan to have someone look into it


    for you? Would you be okay with


    that?" Please read the original


    content at .


    After | spoke, | quickly waved my hand, "Never mind, what am | saying? Forget it."


    | feigned annoyance and pped my mouth.


    Genevaughed, "Come on. We''re such good friends. | know you mean well. Why would | be upset?"


    | grinned sheepishly, trying to exin, "I just got carried away. We''ve been having such a good chat today."


    Myughter was carefree, but Geneva looked at me seriously and said, "Honestly, I''ve thought about doing just that, but |


    couldn''t bring myself to ask. | didn''t want to impose on you."

 Chapter 595

    Chapter 595


    Geneva kept talking to me in a hushed voice, "I just can''t let Catherine in on this yet. Sure, she''s got ties to DragonLord, but I''ve


    got this nagging feeling that the fewer people who know, the better, and that includes Janice."


    | nodded, my smile fading to a serious expression, "I get it."


    ¡°After all, Noah and Baber are working for the government. And who knows if there''s even anything to this rumor? If | stir up a


    storm over nothing, wouldn''t | just be shooting myself in the foot?"


    Hearing her put it like that, | couldn''t suppress augh. "Talk about a self-own."


    Geneva joined in, chuckling, "Exactly."


    | added, with a knowing look, "We''re on the same page. It''s not about being paranoid, it''s about being cautious. After what I''ve


    been through, I''vee to think that even in a marriage, no matter how close, you''ve gotta keep your eyes open. It¡¯s not


    unreasonable, is it?¡±


    | was using my own experience as a wake-up call for Geneva. Though she didn''t respond right away, | could tell she was


    listening intently.


    "Sometimes, being a bit selfish is the way to go. Have a backup n, just in case. That way, you''re not caught off guard if


    something does happen. You''ve got to be prepared for anything.¡±


    Geneva mmed her hand on the table with resolve, "Then you have to talk to Logan for me. | just can''t bring myself to do it. It''s


    too embarrassing."


    | nodded solemnly, "I''ll tell Logan to keep an eye out. I''ll say | want to check into it myself, not at your request."


    She seemed relieved by my answer and pressed, "And what exactly will you say?"


    | nced at her slyly and said, "Simple. I''ll tell him | thought | saw Noah on the street one day and got worried, so | asked him to


    look into it."


    We clicked instantly on the n, and | was surprised at how naturally a good strategy had emerged from our chatter. It provided


    Geneva with both a buffer and a usible reason to bring up the matterter.


    That''s the thing about problems - you shouldn''t panic. Keep calm, and the solutions will start to present themselves.


    We settled back down in the gazebo, and Geneva''s mood visibly improved, "You''re the one feeling down, yet you end up solving


    my problems."


    She said it with a sigh, then offered me a piece of dried sweet potato.


    "The only thing that''ll cure my heartache is getting my kid back," | sighed, "But it sure helps to have someone to talk to, eases


    the load a bit."


    "Yeah, | used to bottle everything up. Too proud to share my troubles. Who could | trust? People are hardly reliable. If I¡¯m


    confiding in someone, it''s all over town."


    "| understand," | nodded, "But bottling things up only leads to trouble. It either drives you crazy or drives the other person crazy.


    It''s not worth it. Better to face the issue head-on, get to the heart of it, and cut out the problem. Life''s too short, and no time to


    waste. Like me, | lost over 3,000 days stewing over things. Drives me nuts just thinking about it."


    ¡°Don''t dwell on it," she advised, "what doesn''t kill you makes you stronger."


    ¡°Easy to say, but the process is hell," | replied, then suddenly asked, "How did you and Noah meet?"Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Geneva smirked, a mix of amusement and irony, "Nothing special about us, absolutely unromantic."


    | egged her on with pure curiosity, "Tell me anyway."


    | wanted to know more about Noah.


    Geneva seemed genuinely happy today and started to share.


    "We were at the same college. He


    was two years ahead of me, studying


    economics. He came from a poor


    background, a kid froga the radatteSin


    area: Herbrokelftee when he got to


    college, thanks to schrships. His


    folks are down-to-earth, hard-working


    people. They scrimped and saved,


    went into debt for his education, and


    then worked even harder to pay it off.


    They''d clear one debt only to take on


    another." Please read the original


    content at .


    Geneva shook her head in resignation and gave a faint smile as she reached that point in her story.


    | couldn''t help but curse inwardly,


    thinking of yet he wasapgineOll


    ingrata whatolgor where he came


    from. Please read the original content


    at .


    "Noah was tough, though. He went to


    school and worked jobs, ate


    a day. He wasm{dust @hring is


    aeKS Was trying to pay off his


    family''s debts, too. And eventually, it


    wore him down." Please read the


    original content at .


    | watched Geneva''s face, listening intently to her story.

 Chapter 596

    Chapter 596


    Geneva''s eyes lit up with a fond nostalgia as she recounted her past with Noah, "Once, | ordered pizza delivery, and he was the


    guy who showed up. The poor thing was burning up with a fever and passed out right on my doorstep. | had to call an


    ambnce to rush him to the hospital. They diagnosed him with pneumonia. Just imagine, a grown man like that, it must''ve been


    bad. He''d been neglecting a cold until it got serious, and there he was still working his tail off."


    "Yeah, he was hard-working," | replied, impressed.


    "The doctor gave me an earful as if it was my fault. | paid the hospital bills and stayed to take care of him. How could | leave him


    there, delirious with a fever? So, | stayed by his side all night.


    When he woke up and found himself in the hospital, he freaked out and insisted on leaving. | could tell he was worried about the


    cost. |id into him. Told him if he wanted to leave tough, that was his business, but he wasn''t going to drag me down with him. I


    didn''t spend a sleepless night in the hospital for nothing."


    Geneva chuckled at the memory, "You should''ve seen the look on his face, so painfully torn. I''ll never forget it.¡±


    | felt a twinge of sympathy for Geneva.


    "He realized | meant business and settled down. He stayed in the hospital for three days, and after he got out, he started treating


    me to dinners, repaying me for the bills bit by bit.


    Eventually, he started courting me. Back then, | wasn''t as pragmatic as girls are today. | didn''t think about his family conditions.


    He was a good-looking guy, hardworking, and he was so attentive. We just naturally drifted into a rtionship.¡±


    "You really are a stand-up woman," | praised her, "Didn''t your family have any objections?"


    "We werefortable back in Marblecliff. But after my mom passed away and my dad remarried, it didn''t feel like home


    anymore. There was no warmth. So, after | graduated, | got married, longing for a home of my own."


    | nodded in understanding, "I felt the same way back then."


    ¡°Noah, well, he''s always been a go-getter, focused on making money. But he stumbled into the public sector by ident. He


    may not have made a fortune, but he achieved his goal of helping others make theirs, putting his expertise to good use."


    "He rose through the ranks pretty quickly at the Trade Commission," | observed.


    "He must have had someone watching over him. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have had such a smooth ride."


    "Oh?"


    "His predecessor, the old minister, took a shine to him. After the minister got promoted, he took Noah under his wing,


    connections,works, strategies... He taught him everything, which is why he soared to where he is now."


    "That''s truly an inspiring story," | said, genuinely impressed. But deep down, | felt a pang of disappointment. It was a shame that


    Noah, the epitome of a self-made man, couldn''t escape the snares of temptation. He had let down his mentor.


    "Yeah, he''s an inspiration," Geneva said with a smirk, "We joke around. | asked him what he liked most, and he''d blurt out money


    without missing a beat. So clich¨¦."


    ¡°A gentleman loves money but earns it in an upright way," | joked back, "After all, everyone bows to the almighty dor."


    ¡°Over the years, he''s helped so many people make a fortune, but us..."


    "Don''t think like that. He''s made a difference."


    "It doesn''t improve our lives." Geneva shot me a wry look.


    "Stop talking nonsense," | teased her, "Seems like you''ve picked up the love for money too."


    "You''re not fond of it?¡±


    "Guilty as charged. They say I''m money-crazy."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    We both burst intoughter. Seizing


    the moment, | probed deeper,


    "Geneva, sometimes | et these wild


    einciahia tsp lystingpothet Fae if


    Aef ing bad happened, have you


    thought about how you''d handle it?"


    As soon as | asked, | worried I''d


    crossed a line. Geneva was too sharp


    forfort. Please read the original


    content at .


    Sure enough, she gave me a piercing


    look, gazed into the distance


    after a mentioetention,


    BAe heavier tone, "I''ve never


    really thought about that." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    The sadness etched on her face was clear, and it was thest thing | wanted to see.


    | hoped she''d always be the determined, strong Geneva | knew.


    But then, most women probably


    shared the same dream, to get


    married, to ha sheltelfionsife¡¯s


    forralnniatt ey often didn''t


    anticipate was that the storm could


    sometimes be brewing within their


    very own husbands. Please read the


    original content at .

 Chapter 597

    Chapter 597


    | offered her a gentle reassurance, "It''s just a hypothesis, honey. Don''t take it to heart. | guess I''m still jittery from that sudden


    curveball life threw at me. I''ve be fond of ying what-if games in my head, a way to brace myself, so I''m not caught off


    guard again."


    She patted my arm in response, "I get it."


    "When | first realized there was something wrong with my meds, | was in utter despair. It felt like my whole world, everything |


    believed in, had crumbled. For the life of me, | couldn''t fathom how such a thing could happen," | said, offering Gevena a wry


    smile.


    "| was stubborn, in denial, afraid to face it. But the one saving grace was that | could y possum, which gave me time to figure


    out what to do. And the only thing | could think of was that | needed to survive. Only by staying alive could | save myself."


    "We''ve chewed the fat over this before. It''s outrageous." Gevena blurted out with a hint of disgust, "How can you let that


    scoundrel Jan roam free after all that?"


    "No rush on that. Just think, over the past decade, by handing over Medsafe Liyah Inc. to him, | had one simple reason | just


    wanted a quiet life. | thought he was my support, but he thought he was killing me. How could | let it go at that."


    "True that," Gevena nodded, her mind heavy with thoughts.


    "So I''ve concluded, being strong is the besteback against him, against life itself."


    Gevena gave my back aforting pat, "You''re right. Can''t let him off the hook that easily."


    | threw my arms wide and shouted skyward, "Bring on the storm, make it wilder."


    And then we bothughed, our mirth echoing through the valley, lingering in the air.


    On a whim, | tugged at her sleeve, "Gevena, if you can drop everything at home for a few days, how about we take a trip to


    Silverdale City to clear your head? There''s a film premiere on Oldtown Avenue next Tuesday. Some big-name stars are going to


    be there. Fancy checking it out?"


    Her eyes sparkled with excitement, "I''ll see if | can arrange it. Actually, | just might."


    "That would be amazing. It''ll be a great surprise for Catherine." | said, bubbling with excitement.


    | hoped a few days away with Gevena might provide her some respite.


    Just then, Hannah called from the doorstep, "Ladies, dinner''s ready."


    | quickly ushered Gevena back inside, "I''m starving. How about a little drink?"


    Gevena nced over, "Are you up for it?"


    "What a thing to ask. We''ve got the night to ourselves, let''s be merry. If we get drunk, we sleep it off, and tomorrow''s a new day.


    I led her through the garden, "No more brooding, face problems head-on. No worries, all''s well. Women can be sensitive and


    sentimental, but sometimes, you just gotta let loose."


    She chuckled in agreement, "Idle hands, right? You''re right, tomorrow is a new day."


    That night we really did get stered, especially Gevena, who was totally sloshed and couldn''t make it home.


    | was the one who called Noah to exin, and he was so polite about it, apologizing for the trouble and thanking me for my care.


    But an unexpected twist urred during all this.


    After getting tipsy, Gevena managed to break a bottle while trying to open it, slicing her hand. At first, | was terrified at the sight of


    her bleeding. | quickly pressed some tissues against the wound.


    But when Hannah dashed off to fetch the first aid kit, | sobered up quite a bit and managed to collect some of Gevena''s blood


    samples. | discreetly instructed Hannah to send them to Serene Garden Homes, straight to Ronan''s care.


    Gevena didn''t notice a thing, just keptughing and insisting on having another drink.


    Whenever we recalled that day,


    Gevena would call e-4 cunning


    thakwes toty for another time.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    The next day, we woke upte, well past morning.


    Gevena came downstairs, yawning, while | was just getting cozy on the couch.


    The hangover wasn''t pleasant.


    She approached me, saying, ea


    had a night like that in ee: Euckily\


    AnoExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    hericiad ooze wasia6eu


    A ieee: Otherwise, it would''ve


    been dreadful." Please read the


    original content at .


    "We should rx more eh Can''t


    always be wound up tight,"


    togetab nerjgorutfueT "This is my


    firstid Ne. getting sick. No


    headache, but | feel drained.¡± Please


    read the original content at


    .


    She sat next to me, "You''re right, and we''ve been living like essories for too long.¡±


    "Then let''s live again," | said, tapping her yfully, "That drinkst night really hit the spot."


    Weughed together, so carefree.


    Yet, clear as day, | knew that soon she''d have to face a heart-wrenching change.


    Whether she could truly make it through would depend on her own resolve.

 Chapter 598

    Chapter 598


    After Geneva left, | rushed back to Serene Garden Homes, only to find that everyone was out.


    | didn''t call anyone, instead, | retreated to my room. Last night''s indulgence in wine had left me feeling like a rag doll, utterly


    devoid of strength.


    As soon as Milo saw me, he leaped onto the bed and snuggled up to me.


    | checked my phone, which had been on vibrate mode so it wouldn''t interrupt my conversation with Geneva. | noticed a missed


    call from Dad and quickly called him back.


    He answered immediately, asking, ¡°Sweetheart, you heading back to Silverdale City on Tuesday?¡±


    Without hesitation, | replied, ¡°Yes. I''ve wrapped up things here, and it''s time to head back.¡±


    He hummed in satisfaction.


    | teased him with a chuckle, ¡°I¡¯ve barely been gone a few days, and you''re already rushing me.¡±


    He justughed, ¡°We''ve got the full backing of the officials this time, making a big ssh. You''ve got to be there. It¡¯s a historic


    moment, which can¡¯t do it without my girl.¡±


    | could hear the love in his voice and couldn''t help but grin.


    Then | remembered Mason and asked, ¡°Mason hasn¡¯t made any moves, has he?¡±


    | was still worried. | had left in a hurry and hadn¡¯t had the chance to discuss it with Galen properly.


    ¡°No moves so far. But since you mentioned he¡¯s been seen with Jesper, he¡¯s probably up to no good. But don¡¯t worry, Ronan¡¯s


    got everything under control,¡± Galen assured me with utmost trust in Ronan.


    ¡°| haven¡¯t had the chance to ask about the investigation into Mason, but Ronan and the team have some leads. Looks like he¡¯s


    the fall guy.¡±Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That¡¯s a whole nest of vermin.¡± Dad cursed, ¡°So when Ronan approached me, | didn¡¯t hesitate to join forces with him to root out


    this scum. It¡¯s our civic duty. Besides, it''s not the theft that¡¯s the problem, it¡¯s the constant threat. With these rats targeting leading


    businesses, it¡¯s a ticking time bomb.¡±


    ¡°But ourbined strength still seems too little,¡± | said worriedly, ¡°They''re like cockroaches, crawling everywhere, and we¡¯re out


    in the open while they¡¯re in the shadows.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why we need to reshuffle the deck, and make sure our businesses are clean,¡± Dad dered confidently, ¡°Whoever does


    this first will reap the benefits. We can¡¯t afford to ck off.¡±


    ¡°| was wondering why he¡¯s been so busy and out of sight.¡± | quipped absentmindedly.


    But immediately | realized there was something wrong with that statement, and thankfully it was my dad across the table, or else


    I''d have people criticizing me.


    Aknock on the door interrupted us, and | quickly told my dad, ¡°Gotta go, something''s up. I''ll head back early.¡±


    He grunted and hung up.


    As | ended the call, | called out, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Hannah entered phone in hand, eyes glued to her screen, ¡°Allie, check this out.¡±


    | sat up and took her phone, looking at the screen. It disyed a photo of an intricate handmade model of a wooden dinghy.


    ¡°It''s a model boat, beautifully crafted. Where''d you snap this?¡± | asked.


    Hannah sat down next to me and zoomed in on a small tag on the boat that read, ¡°Oldtown Avenue Handcrafted,¡± with


    ¡°Silverdale¡± stamped in the middle.


    Confused, | looked at Hannah, ¡°Is this from Silverdale City''s Oldtown Avenue?¡±


    Instead of answering, Hannah zoomed back out to show it was part of her chat with Fidelia.


    | frowned, ¡°You''re chatting with Fidelia, so she sent this to you?¡±


    ¡°Fidelia said it was a gift from


    Cami. She¡¯s asyenaste a


    iyspesonanctb\in venue,¡± Hannah


    revealed. Please read the original


    content at .


    | stared at Hannah, puzzled, ¡°Are you suggesting Cami went to Silverdale City?¡±


    ¡°It looks like Cami¡¯s trip was to


    Silverdale cityy Hannatl Said¡®wkth a


    HinKobeNcit¨¦ment. Please read the


    original content at .


    | stood abruptly, ¡°Cami went to Silverdale City? For business?¡±


    Hannah nodded, ¡°That¡¯s my guess.¡±


    It didn¡¯t make sense. What business


    did Cami have in Silverdal


    She had t Fidelia see qui her


    idD and idelia mentioned there was


    no delivery of medication. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    So, what was Cami¡¯s real reason for going to Silverdale City?


    Both Hannah and | fell silent, consumed by our thoughts.

 Chapter 599

    Chapter 599


    For a long moment, Hannah broke the silence, "Ever since we met Fidelia, I''ve been curious about Cami''s business trip. | kept


    in touch with Fidelia, sending her messages now and then, probing to see if Cami had returned. She told me Cami got back


    yesterday afternoon. So, | asked if Cami brought any gifts back this time. And Fidelia shot back with this."


    Pacing back and forth, | mulled over Cami''s behavior, unable to fathom a reasonable exnation.


    "Did you guys have someone look into Cami the day before yesterday?" | asked Hannah, looking up.


    "Exactly." Hannah nodded, "So, | thought I''d try to learn a bit more about her from the sidelines."


    | quickly phoned Logan, asking where he was.


    He said he was out running some errands and was on his way back.


    ¡°All right, I''m at Serene Garden Homes. We''ll talk when you''re back."


    After hanging up, | exchanged a nce with Hannah and then headed downstairs.


    In less than ten minutes, Logan arrived back with Ronan.


    Ronan, looking at me, inquired, "Something up?"


    | quickly brought up the gift from Fidelia, prompting Hannah to show Logan the photo of the boat model. He examined it closely


    before passing the phone to Ronan.


    Ronan, too, scrutinized the image after erging it.


    | said, full of doubts, "Could she have really gone to Silverdale City this time? But she just came back from there. This feels so


    intriguing. If she had business in Silverdale City, why didn''t she take care of it during herst trip?"


    Ronan told Logan, "Check the airline passenger lists, confirm if she actually went to Silverdale City."


    Logan asked me about the rough dates of Cami''s business trip. Then he immediately made a call to check the lists.


    While we waited for news, | briefed Ronan on yesterday''s meeting with Geneva.


    Ronan handed me a report, saying Geneva''s blood sample came back clear, and there was no virus infection.


    | patted my chest in relief, murmuring a silent prayer of thanks, "That''s a weight off my shoulders.¡±


    But Ronan''s face was grave, and he said, "We need to resolve Geneva''s situation properly, and it''s a ticking time bomb. We can''t


    have any slip-ups with Noah''s lead, or it might scare off the big shot behind him. If he goes to ground, who knows how long we''ll


    be waiting.¡±


    "I''ve alreadyid the groundwork for a believable exnation, told her Logan would look into Noah. Geneva will want to know the


    oue, so we''ll reveal it and then, soften the blow," | ryed my strategy to Ronan.


    Ronan''s eyes showed approval, but he firmly added, "We can''t dy this matter for too long, to avoid any unforeseen


    complications."


    His words sent the anxiety spiking back up in me.


    Just then, Logan''s phone rang, drawing our collective attention.


    He answered swiftly, putting it on speaker, and we heard the voice on the other end say, "Checked thoroughly, and there''s no


    flight record for Cami."


    Hannah and | eximed in unison, bewildered, "None?"


    Logan uttered a terse Okay and ended the call.


    Hannah and | locked eyes, sharing a mutual disappointment at the oue.


    Had we misjudged the situation? | couldn''t shake the feeling of discontent.


    | dialed Catherine directly, and she picked up immediately, "Darling, missing me?"


    | rolled my eyes in feigned disgust, "Cut the sweet talk. Are you on Oldtown Avenue?"


    "Yep, I''m here." came Catherine''s prompt reply.


    "I''m going to send you a picture.


    Once you get it, find the obje


    photo on Oldtqwonveatie Ask the


    vendor ere else this handcrafted


    boat model is sold, and where else


    can it be found?" Please read the


    original content at .


    Catherine was quick on the uptake, "Send it over, I''m on it."


    | reiterated, "Make sure the model


    you find is identical to t e one othe


    rg aopecmiennesral logo on


    it-7hat logo has to match." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    Catherine confirmed with an okay.


    As | hung up, Hannah had already sent the picture.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Hannah looked at me, a hint of doubt in her voice, "Could we have been wrong?"


    ¡°We''ll know once Catherine finds that model shop," | reassured her, "Being patient."


    Logan, deep in thought, tapped his


    long fingers on the t plecthea O


    sudeniyistappatrand said, "There''s


    another possibility." Please read the


    original content at .

 Chapter 600

    Chapter 600


    We all turned to him, the air thick with anticipation for what woulde.


    He scanned our faces, pausing for a few beats. "It¡¯s also possible that Cami has another identity!"


    The moment Logan dropped this bombshell, my head started to throb. It seemed Logan''s theory had ventured into the realms of


    soap opera twists.


    Shaking my head, | muttered, "That seems unlikely.¡±


    Yet, even as | said it, | couldn''t help feeling that my dismissal was too hasty. | had to admit | hardly knew Cami.Material ? N?velDrama.Org.


    But from the Cami that I¡¯d met and interacted with at the Dawson family, it didn¡¯t add up to Logan''s theory. How could she have


    another identity? What kind of person would have prepared such a bizarre scenario?


    Hannah interrupted with a smirk, "The Dawson family is indeed full of surprises. You think you know a person and bam, they pull


    a rabbit out of a hat!"


    Soon after, my phone rang. It was Catherine. | answered on speaker and blurted out, "Did you find it?"


    "You bet!" she quipped, then got down to brass tacks. "| asked around. These boat models are meticulously handcrafted stitch by


    stitch, leading to their slow production and limited supply, especially the ones from Silverdale''s, which are the only ones stamped


    with the ¡®Silverdale¡¯ mark. Not only does it represent the city of Silverdale, but the owner''s surname, too. Their logo''s pretty


    meaningful, you know.


    ¡°But all things considered, the price is on the steep side. Theye in three sizes, and even the smallest will cost several


    hundred bucks. I''ll say it¡¯s a bit expensive. But for an enthusiast, they''re a collector¡¯s dream.


    ¡°They''re not avable for export yet, sold exclusively on Oldtown Avenue. It''s a special tie-in with the avenue''s promotional


    campaign. Quite a few have been sold already, mostly to tourists. And the owner mentioned he¡¯s earmarking this particr


    model, the wherry, as a gift for overseas promotion."


    Catherine covered all bases, and then, as if an afterthought, she asked, "Why? Do you like them? | can snag one for you if you


    want!"


    "No, it''s not that," | said, distracted.


    "And..." Catherine hurried on as if afraid I''d hang up, "Guess who | just saw?"


    My attention snapped back. "Who?"


    "| just saw Mason on the street!" she said earnestly. "| recognized him instantly. | called out his name, ¡®Mason,¡¯ and he pretended


    not to know me."


    | was startled. "You saw Mason on Oldtown Avenue?"


    "Yeah!"


    "Alone?"


    "Just him, strolling along near the Wood Manor," she reported with precision. "He nced at me and imed | had the wrong


    guy. As if | could mistake him, right?"


    | exchanged a nce with Ronan.


    Ronan asked into the phone, "Are you sure you didn''t mix him up with someone else?"


    "No way. I''d recognize him even by his bones." Catherine was adamant. "He''s gotten chubbier, but that''s about it. When |


    shouted his name, he hesitated and nearly turned around!"


    "It seems he was heading to Oldtown Avenue," Logan mused to Ronan.


    "Should | tail him if | see him again?" Catherine piped up at the sound of Logan''s voice.


    "Will you cool it? Haven''t you learned


    your lesson? Leave the sleuthi


    us. We''ve got plentyi6t people on it


    aaah teed you ying the


    heroine," Logan said, his voice tinged


    with irritation. Please read the


    original content at .


    "Alright, alright! | know. I''ve gotta go if


    there''s nothing else," Catheri -eiael


    relented an themvslled ut to me,


    "ANS, You Need to get back here


    soon. We need you here for many


    things!" Please read the original


    content at .


    With that, she ended the call.


    | gave a shrug as | looked at Logan,


    musing about how Catherine still


    ag!


    behaved like aeh b needing to


    beraradd by''a irm hand, Logan¡¯s


    hand. It reminded me of the old


    adage, ¡®There''s a lid for every pot.¡¯


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Hannah looked at me and said, "See? Cami did head back to Silverdale City."


    We were all stunned to learn this revtion, struggling to find a logical exnation for Cami''s actions.


    Finally, Logan concluded, "Looks like we need to dig into Cami''s supposed second identity!"

 Chapter 601

    Chapter 601


    Hannah eyed me with curiosity and concern. "Looks like I''ll have to visit Fidelia soon to get the scoop!"


    "Just don''t get too cozy, or Cami might sniff something''s up," Ronan warned, his voice low and measured. "Hold your horses.


    for now. I''ll get someone to keep tabs on her. We need to figure out who Cami is before we make a move."


    Then Ronan turned to me, his gaze sharp. "So, when are you heading back to Silverdale City?"


    His question caught me off guard. With all the recent craziness, my ns were tossed like a sd.


    "|... [haven''t decided yet!" | replied, my voice tinged with uncertainty, and then quickly added, "I''ve invited Geneva to see around


    Silverdale City with me. | thought it might ease the tension a bit.¡±


    Ronan nodded approvingly. "That''s a good call."


    | nced at him. "Are you heading to Silverdale City, too?"


    Ronan nodded again., "Yep! That¡¯s the n."


    Logan, who had been quietly listening all this while, interjected with a hint of uncertainty, "We''ve managed to get the information


    of the woman who has your lost child!"


    | was instantly on edge, leaning in with urgency. "You found something? What''s her story?"


    "She''s a distant rtive from Hazel''s hometown named Marilyn, forty-two years old. She married into a family rted to Hazel


    but got divorced because she couldn''t have kids."


    My heart tightened at the news. Whoever this woman with my child was, | couldn''t shake off a feeling of unease.


    ¡°From what we''ve gathered, Marilyn is decent and down-to-earth. She''s got some smarts and finished up to junior high. She got


    hitched at sixteen to the guy, and apparently, they were quite the item.


    Neighbors say she''s got a knack for crafts, a dab hand at embroidery and even does a bit of painting. She designs her patterns


    and all that stuff. However, the inability to have children eventually led to her divorce.


    After that, she left her broken home behind. Since then, she had worked odd jobs in the surrounding cities and never remarried,


    living on a shoestring. She had been in contact with her parents until about four years ago, then suddenly, radio silence.


    But just before she dropped off the map, she wired a sum of about fifteen grand to her parents. We guess Hazel got to her, paid


    her off, but put a gag order on her, too."


    Loganid out the facts with rity.


    "But we still can''t track her down, right?" | asked, a hint of disappointment in my voice.


    Logan nodded solemnly. "Yeah, no word on her whereabouts."


    "What kind of person would take them? If it''s not one of Jerome''s, it means someone else is in on Hazel''s secret," Hannah


    mused aloud.


    Logan continued, "We''ve asked around the entire neighborhood where she lived and came up with something possibly helpful.


    Some people took them away in the dead of night.


    There were two men and an SUV, Marilyn clutching the child. A witness mentioned seeing the scene. He came homete from a


    trip and spotted it.


    He said Marilyn was reluctant, resisting the men, and kept repeating, ¡®Where are you taking us?¡¯ She got pped before they


    shoved her into the vehicle. The witness managed to snap a photo of the car and its tes."


    ¡°Let me see!" | reached out eagerly.


    My insides churned with panic. They''d hit the woman named Marilyn? What would be stopping them from hurting my child if they


    had treated Marilyn so roughly?


    Logan hesitated before showing me the photos.


    The images were dimly lit and grainy,


    showing a woman holding a chil


    close, protective iy kek arnt The


    chia een et to be asleep, and by the


    looks of it, it was about the same size


    as Carl, with little legs poking out.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    | stared at the bare legs, my fingers instinctively reaching out to touch the screen, inadvertently zooming in.


    Taking a deep breath, | flicked to the photo of the vehicle.


    "Did you find this car?" | pressed.


    "Fake tes," Logan said with a sigh of frustration.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It means they took her against her will!" Logan added. "It was a forced abduction."


    "Then why was the house tidied up


    so neatly? It looked like they wend td


    | ve | questionedl''p rplexed. "But


    would she resist?" Please read


    the original content at


    .


    "It suggests that whoever took them


    knew Hazel or at least of her," Ronan


    deduced and tumed taLagae DSdh


    intg Hazel@actVaintances. If we can


    confirm Hazel doesn''t know the


    child''s been taken, it likely means the


    abductors were using Hazel''s name


    as a cover!" Please read the original


    content at .


    Ronan''s conclusion sent a chill down my spine.


    Someone who knew Hazel?

 Chapter 602

    Chapter 602


    Hazel had many acquaintances, but | could only imagine Jerome being the one she''d trust with something this big. But Jerome


    himself was searching for the child, which made no sense.


    Who else could it be?


    Could Jerome have let slip about the child? It seemed unlikely. If he had leaked the news, it would mean the child was taken half


    a year ago. But back then, | was still inaa, and everything was peaceful. Why would they think of taking the child, then?


    Ugh, my head was killing me!


    "If only there were surveince cameras in the neighborhood, we could have checked who was around half a year ago or who


    made contact with Marilyn before the kid was whisked away. Maybe we would find a lead!" Hannah muttered.


    ¡°We''ve thought about that," Logan said, "We checked the footage from that time frame but didn''t get much. A camera outside a


    salon across the street captured the gate, but it was blurry. It''s like searching for a needle in a haystack without a specific target,


    but we''re still on it!"


    We all fell into silence. After a while, | turned to Hannah and said, "Let''s return to that house and take another look."


    Hannah hesitated, ncing at Ronan. He gave a subtle nod.


    She then strode out with me.


    Hannahforted me softly in the car, "Allie, don''t worry. Marilyn seems decent enough. As long as she''s a good person, the kid


    should be fine."


    | couldn''t hold back my tears at that. "Whenever | think of my child in someone else''s hands, it just doesn''t sit right with me!"


    "| get it!" said Hannah.


    ¡°Hannah, you don''t understand. You''re unmarried and have no kids. Do you know why | decided to keep Carl?" | sniffled and


    turned to her.


    She nced at me and shook her head helplessly.


    "| didn''t n on taking him back that day at North Town when | went to see his injured father at the hospital. After all, he was


    Zora''s kid, but..."


    | broke down in tears, and Hannah gently patted my shoulder.


    ¡°But when he reached his little hands, crying ¡®Mama, don''t go,¡¯ it tore me apart." | clutched at my aching heart.


    ¡°At that moment, | thought about my son, lost and alone out there. He must have been desperately helpless if he found himself in


    the same situation and no one wanted him. He''d be like Carl, desperately climbing up, crying out for his mother not to leave."


    Hannah looked at me, her eyes red. "I''ve never been a mother, but | understand. Carl was so pitiful that day, looking like he knew


    what was in our hearts. You saw how he stayed by your side, carefully coaxing you not to leave. Oh god."


    "It showed how desperate and hopeless he was. You heard his wailing that day. How heart-wrenching it was. As a mother, it


    stung me. And Carl grew up by my side.


    How could | have the heart to abandon him and walk away? I''m selfish, using my conscience to plead with the heavens to treat


    my son well and keep him safe from despair!"This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    | spoke through sobs, the salty tears filling my mouth.


    ¡°Allie, be strong! Finding him will solve everything. Honestly, | admire you. | used to think I''d never keep Dawslug''s child if | were


    in your shoes, but when I saw Carl, | couldn''t bear to be harsh."


    | gave a bitter smile. "I''m no saint. | just can''t harden my heart. He''s just a child without choice."


    We arrived at the neighborhood in the


    the when families madnter)


    ¡ì few pegple WEr\a Nifoina. Hannah


    ahd | got out of the car and went


    straight upstairs. Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah had the key to the door, and we entered effortlessly.


    Everything was as we left it, clean and tidy.


    Marilyn was tidy and ordered, which eased my mind a little. At least my child wouldn''t be living in filth.


    My heart felt strangely calm in this ce as if | were closest to my son.


    | looked around the room again


    ay It didn''t look like sqmesine


    eye eftinehunfothe bed was still


    ene with a sheet, probably to


    keep off the dust. Please read the


    original content at .


    But then, why did she resist when she got into the carter?


    Did she realize the peopleing for


    them were wron 2 Buk yehercata¡¯She


    leengnnd Bow! d she figure it out?


    tone read the original content at


    .

 Chapter 603

    Chapter 603


    | had been sitting silently for an eternity, lost in thought, and Hannah hadn''t disturbed me once.


    It wasn''t until the light outside began to fade and darkness crept into the room that Hannah finally spoke up, offering a word of


    comfort. "Allie, shall we head back?"


    ncing out the window, | confirmed it was when streetmps lit up in the early evening.


    My gaze inadvertently fell upon the windowsill, where two withered potted nts sat, their dryness contributing to the gloom of


    my mood.


    One appeared to be a spider nt, a mere shadow of its former self. The other was unrecognizable, with only bare twigs


    remaining.


    However, the second nt was odd. It had well-pruned thick branches, suggesting that Marilyn had taken good care of it. What


    was strange, though, was a thick branch snapped off harshly, drooping sadly then.


    | stood up and approached, wondering how it could have broken like this.


    People wouldn''t treat a treasured nt this way.


    Anyone passionate about nts knows they''re like children. | could feel it. It nearly broke my heart to see even a leaf fall from


    the nts | nurtured before | got sick!


    By the look of the pruning, Marilyn must have cherished it. How could a branch be broken, then? Could someone else have done


    it?


    The broken branch hung limply, but oddly, its tip was in the soil. | was puzzled by this strange action of breaking it to nt it back


    inside.


    Without thinking, | reached to pull the buried branch tip from the soil.


    As the branch tip was out, it dragged up a clump of soil, so dry and hard it was almost rock-like, crumbling into chunks. Beneath


    that chunk of soil, | spotted the corner of a stic bag tied up.


    Driven by curiosity, | quickly grabbed the corner of the bag and yanked it out.


    It was an ordinary shopping bag people would use for groceries, seemingly wrapped around something. The middle was tied


    with string.


    | took a closer look and squeezed it, feeling what seemed like a piece of paper inside.


    My pupils constricted as | urgently found the end of the string and pulled it loose, and then | called out to Hannah.


    Clueless about what | was doing, Hannah came over right after she heard me call. "What are you looking at?"


    | showed her what | found.


    She looked at the item in my hand with astonishment and asked, "What is that? Where did you find it?"


    | pointed to the flowerpot in front of me. "I found it in here."


    As | spoke, | eagerly began to unwrap the stic. It wasyered thickly, obviously wrapped with care, likely to protect the paper


    inside from moisture.


    Hannah watched curiously, saying, "It looks like it''s been packaged up pretty neat. Must be something special. But why would it


    be buried in a flowerpot? How did you find it?"


    | didn''t have time to answer her


    questions and focused a peeling ||


    a erSlSPNISstlc with care


    cao


    o damage the contents. Please


    read the original content at


    .


    After quite a moment, | finally got through the stic to reveal a folded piece of paper.


    | tossed aside the bag and pulled out the paper, my hands trembling as | unfolded it carefully.


    The paper was marked with a rough drawing in ck ink, clearly done in haste and without much attention to detail.


    There was also a line of text with a


    few letters below it. | didn''t realize |


    was holding the pa stipside doWh!


    until igawithe Whiting. | quickly turned


    it around. The handwriting was


    sloppy and read, "The people who


    took us have this symbol." Please


    read the original content at


    .


    | studied the symbol closely and looked toward Hannah, staring back at me earnestly.


    The symbol on the paper was rough, but it felt eerily familiar.


    Still uncertain, | looked up at Hannah for confirmation, "Hannah, doesn''t it look like the symbol of AzureEnchantress?"Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Taking the paper from me, Hannah


    examined it, held it at ax istance and


    ie} noeeee WAKerviGHon, "That''s


    t Sibel no doubt about it!¡±


    Please read the original content at


    .

 Chapter 604

    Chapter 604


    | swallowed, my heart pounding like a drum in my chest. "Did Marilyn try to signal to Hazel that the AzureEnchantress took her?


    But what do these letters mean?" | asked.


    Hannah''s face was a storm cloud of worry. We didn''t need to voice it. If my hunch was correct, this spelled bad news.


    Pointing at the cryptic letters, | quizzed Hannah, but she shook her head in confusion.


    "This one is an R... and this one is either an H or an N. 49C! What on earth does that mean?" Hannah muttered to herself,


    squinting at the paper. "What does it represent?"


    | also tried to make sense of it but failed.


    The room had grown dark, and Hannah tugged at my sleeve. "We''ve got to go and show Ronan. Maybe he can crack it. It has to


    be a clue Marilyn left behind.¡±


    We pocketed the note and hurried back to Serene Garden Homes.


    Ronan and Logan poured over the note, and soon we were all on the same page. The pattern must be the emblem of the


    AzureEnchantress.


    Marilyn had sent a message to Hazel, warning her that those who took them bore this mark, the same as the AzureEnchantress!


    But the letters were gibberish to us.


    Logan looked over at Ronan. It was time we dug deeper into this AzureEnchantress character.


    Ronan instructed Logan to find a pretext to bring Jan in to wring out whatever he knew about the AzureEnchantress and start


    rattling the members of the High-rollers Hangout, shaking the Enchantress out of hiding.


    And to keep an eye on Jerome''s reactions, they might have to let him loose if necessary.


    Logan snapped his gaze to Ronan. "That could be risky!"


    ¡°Maybe not," Ronan countered, cool as a cucumber. "Jerome''s just a middleman. He might not have a leg to stand on out there.


    ¡°But what if he''s valuable? Aren''t we just freeing the tiger back into the forest?" Logan was hesitant. "We''ve had him on a tight


    leash for long. He¡¯s about to snap!"


    "For the sake of the child, we have no choice!" Ronan''s tone brooked no argument.


    | looked at Ronan, touched and with misty eyes.


    "Thank you," | said sincerely.


    Ronan didn''t bite. He had made up his mind.


    Dinner was as nd as cardboard for me!


    Back in my room, Hannah followed me in, trying to cheer me up. "Want to watch something lively to lighten the mood?"


    | shook my head disinterestedly. "I''m not in the mood for entertainment."


    | couldn''t help but scoff internally. Entertainment was thest thing | needed when | was worried sick about my child possibly


    being in the hands of the AzureEnchantress, a shadowy figure as elusive as a ghost. No one knew who they were, not even


    whether they were man or woman, let alone their intentions.


    What made it worse was that | had this sinking feeling that the AzureEnchantress knew me, yet | knew nothing of them.


    And they were no friend but my adversary. Marissa and Zora''sst words were clear. The AzureEnchantress would never let me


    off the hook.


    The most frightening thought was that | didn''t even know why the AzureEnchantress would have it out for me.


    With my child possibly in their clutches, | felt my hope dwindling.


    Even Ronan had dered that the child was the top priority and that we had no choice, which had highlighted the gravity of the


    situation.


    How could | possibly be in the mood for distractions?


    But then Hannah if] a tablet in


    front of my face. "It''s a ve feedofi |


    t pagar ara And


    th¨¦re''s a new twist. Wanna see?"


    Please read the original content at


    .


    Interest piqued, | nced at Hannah and quipped, "Did you get Quincy on it?"


    Hannah gave a little smirk, showing her canines.


    Seeing her smug expression, | knew it


    was good. | reached, far\the aisiat


    Oy


    cageryrVvegbt see this. Is there a


    live feed?" Please read the original


    content at .Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Hannah nodded with a devilish glee. "Catch the nightly episodes! They''re a hoot!"


    "If it''s current, it might give Dalton an


    angle," | mused as | ta ped inte phe |


    feed ontfpeutiniNsa sk Hannah,


    "How did Quincy pull it off?" Please


    read the original content at


    .


    "The old routine!" she replied calmly.


    "Electrical inspection?" | said with a chuckle. "Works every time, huh?"


    "It was the gas line this time!" she revealed.


    | burst intoughter. "Talk about a low-tech solution for a high-stakes game!"

 Chapter 605

    Chapter 605


    Hannah chuckled and turned to me with thetest gossip. ¡°Farley and Fannie have officially shacked up, and Jan is as mad


    as a ho. He got into a fight with his old man the day before yesterday, and Fannie jumped into the fray, too! Now, Jan has


    no ce to crash, so he has to go back daily. It¡¯s like World War III whenever they run into each other!¡±


    I snorted derisively, ¡°Serves him right. Jan''s not worth more than the trouble he causes.¡±


    ¡°Jan''s been eyeing their ce these past few days, so the fights have been so fierce!¡± Hannah seemed almost thrilled by the


    drama.


    | pulled up the live feed from the security camera, only to see Farley in the kitchen, with no sign of the others, looking like Farley


    was ying chef.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Hannah plopped down next to me, grinning at the screen. ¡°Fannie¡¯s been showing Farley a good time thest few days and


    made a pretty penny, too.¡±


    ¡°Really? That fast?¡± | was skeptical. ¡°Fannie does know how to work it!¡±


    ¡°Absolutely. Farley¡¯s like putty in her hands these days. Fannie tells him to sit, and he doesn¡¯t dare to stand. Keeps saying she¡¯s


    taking him out to clear his head, and he¡¯s over the moon about it!¡±


    ¡°It sounds like she¡¯s giving him what he¡¯s wanted. He never got that kind of treatment from Hazel. With Fannie, he¡¯s found his


    dignity!¡±


    | knew Farley well. When Hazel was around, he couldn''t get a word in edgewise. She¡¯d chew him out a dozen times on a daily


    basis, and he wouldn¡¯t dare to make a sound.


    Hannah shared thetest. ¡°Farley''s spoiling Fannie. She mentioned craving seafood yesterday, so he got up early to hit the


    market.¡±


    | scoffed. ¡°Enjoy it while itsts.¡±


    Hannah handed me a cookie from the table and spoke, ¡°Janes backte every night. Farley tried to lock him out a few


    nights ago, but Jan had woken everyone with his banging. Farley doesn¡¯t dare lock him out again. The two have no shame,


    and the whole neighborhood''s buzzing with talk about their antics!¡±


    Right on cue, Farley''s voice boomed from the screen. ¡°Darling, dinner¡¯s ready!¡±


    His tone dripped with indulgence, and | rolled my eyes in disgust.


    But before Fannie appeared on screen, the front door swung open with a click, and two figures came in.


    My attention was piqued when | saw Jan entering with an arm wrapping around a woman as if they were conjoined twins.


    Hannah caught my expression and knew something was up. She leaned in to catch a glimpse of the screen.


    The sight of Jan walking in with a woman on his arm had her snickering. ¡°The show''s about to start.¡±


    Previously lost in his domestic bliss, Farley gaped at the pair walking in.


    Meanwhile, scantily d in her revealing pajamas, Fannie had just stepped out of the bedroom.


    The shock on her face was undeniable when she saw Jan with his arm candy.


    She seemed to realize the dinner would be unforgettable. She stuttered, pointing at Jan. ¡°What the...¡±


    Jan ignored her, guiding his date


    to the dining table, supveyingctte |"


    food speeall With a smug smile.


    Please read the original content at


    .


    The table was set impressively, with various seafood, a tablecloth, and a bottle of red wine.


    | couldn''t help but turn to Hannah.


    ¡°Can you believe it? Farley''s


    into Mr. Romane nithiout Hazel.


    Tableeldtt and red wine? If Hazel


    saw this, she''d w out of her grave


    to scratch him.¡± Please read the


    original content at .


    Hannah was in stitches, eating her


    cookie as she watched the dram


    unfold. ¡°Farley gepyardalwayshave


    if hick buthever dares to show it.


    Hazel kept him under her thumb.


    Now he¡¯s free to unleash all his


    hidden passions!¡± Please read the


    original content at .


    ¡°That¡¯s for sure. He¡¯s living it up!¡±


    Hannah scoffed. ¡°How else could he have raised a piece of work like Jan?¡±


    | hummed in agreement. ¡°Jan''s a chip off the old block.¡±


    She giggled and nudged me. ¡°Quick, the show is on!¡±


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