Ch. 331..340

Chapter 331 The Wounds Will Bleed

“Christina?”

“Madison!”

Both their voices echoed in the spacious space.

A while ago, Christina had thought the silhouette looked familiar, and her suspicion had led her to probe further.

Little did she expect to catch the person red-handed.

Madison was certain that the former had no solid proof, so she uttered placidly. “What a coincidence! You’re here for horseback riding too?”

“It’s not a coincidence. You came looking for me on purpose,” Christina stated confidently. She knew it was a piece of cake for Madison to use her identity to check Nathaniel’s schedule.

I haven’t seen this woman for years, and she’s now smarter than before. “I took the weekend off and came here for horseback riding” Madison pressed her lips, refusing to admit her real agenda,

“Whatever it is, you can explain that to the police later.” A sharp glint flashed across Christina’s eyes. She had already called the police before walking in.

Madison frowned and asked diffidently, “What evidence do you have that I was the cause of your fall?”

Christina was riding a horse just now. She couldn’t have had a spare hand to hold her phone. That’s impossible! Moreover, the racecourse doesn’t have any surveillance cameras installed indoors because they want to protect the privacy of their guests. She can’t have any proof.

Christina smirked coldly. This is just the beginning of my questions, yet she can’t wait to give herself away already!

“There was a couple taking pictures and videos nearby when you passed me by just now. I’m sure they’ve captured the evidence of your crime.”

At that instant, Madison’s face turned as white as a sheet.

Christina continued, “Do you want to come clean and admit to the police that you’ve hurt me? Or should I get the photo evidence and then reveal it to the whole world?”

“Are you threatening ine?” Madison fumed, finding it hard to breathe.

The worst thing that could happen to me if I were to turn myself in was to be detained and Nathaniel would never find out about this. On the contrary, if Christina reports the incident to Nathaniel and submits the proof to the police. I’ll be kicked out of Hadley Corporation. I’m being cornered by Christina’s ruthless plan! Her move practically left me with no choice.

“Were you concerned about my safety when you made me fall from the horse?” Christina snapped back at her, her eyes bloodshot.

Madison was rendered speechless once more.

“Since you couldn’t care less about me then, you have no right to ask me now. I’ll give you three seconds to decide. One… Two…”

“Ill confess to the police that I hurt you,” Madison said through gritted teeth.

Christina’s lip curled up into a smile. Her shimmering gaze was as pure as snow, and not a tinge of feigned expression could be found on her countenance. “My lawyer will arrive shortly. I bet you’re well aware of the consequences if you go back on your words.”

With that, she turned and strode out of the changing room, leaving a resentful Madison behind screaming and yelling out of anger.

Meanwhile, Lucas and Camila had just returned after completing a round of horseback riding.

“Let’s head home. I’m so tired,” Christina said to her two children.

“Okay, let’s go home.” It was almost evening, and the children were quite tired too.

Lucas and Camila turned around and scanned the place for their father. Once they spotted him, they waved at the towering figure and shouted, “Hurry up. Daddy! We’re leaving.”

Nathaniel’s clothes were neat and tidy. No one could tell that he had just fallen. However, his hair was slightly messy by the strong wind. A few strands of hair covered his brows, making his eyes look deeper.

The children were exhausted during the journey home.

Having used up all of their energy, they could not wait to eat upon arriving at Scenic Garden Manor.

After dinner, Christina bathed the children, and they fell asleep before she could finjsh telling them.

As she looked at the two adorable faces, she wished that the blissful moment would last forever.

Christina pecked the children on their cheeks before leaving the room.

She then went to change into her nightgown in the bathroom inside the master bedroom. Only then did she feel more relaxed and comfortable.

As soon as the door was pushed open, a strong masculine scent instantly filled the entire room.

Nathaniel placed a medical kit in front of her and said indifferently. “Apply the medicine for me.”

It was then that Christina recalled how she had managed to escape the accident unscathed. Nathaniel had been there to cushion her fall.

She mumbled reluctantly, “Can’t you get the butler to help you?”

“The one who caused me to get hurt should be responsible.”

Nathaniel had just taken a shower in the guest room and was wearing his pajama. Swiftly, he raised his arm and pulled off his shirt.

The man’s burly frame and toned back muscles could be clearly seen under the lighting. There were also several open injuries caused by pebble abrasion on his back. Those wounds looked relatively more serious because they were not treated in time.

When Christina saw his wounds, her heart of stone was immediately replaced with a heart of flesh.

“Sit down.”

Nathaniel obliged and sat down with his back facing her

Christina took the alcohol swab and disinfected his wounds. The very high concentration of alcohol gave Nathaniel a tingling sensation the moment it came into contact with his skin.

Normally, Nathaniel would have kept silent. However, he wanted to attract Christina’s attention at that moment.

“Ouch! Not so hard,” he muttered.

Christina was rather upset when she stared at those horrible wounds because she had channeled all her attention to settle scores with the culprit in the afternoon and neglected Nathaniel

I delayed it for so long, causing his injuries to become so serious…

“Bear with it for a while. That’s how disinfecting a wound feels like. If the wounds are not cleaned. thoroughly, you may run a temperature and get sick easily.”

Christina became more gentle. She blew at the wounds right after applying the medicine with the hopes. that she could lessen his pain.

The last step was to bandage the wound with gauze to prevent it from sticking to the clothes.

“All right, you can go out now,” Christina said indifferentlywhile packing the medical kit.

When she recalled what happened last night, she became so annoyed that she wanted to pull her hair out. She would never allow the same incident to happen again.

Nathaniel did not want to leave at all. He gently hugged her waist from the back and asked, “I’m very tired today. Could you please let me stay here for one night?”

His voice was thready, making him sound like a beast that had just woken up from a good sleep, meek and harmless.

Christina tried her best to break free from his embrace. “There are tens of rooms in Scenic Garden Manor. You can sleep in any one of them if you like. Now, please leave.”

She was resolute, leaving no room for discussion.

Nathaniel was puzzled. When did she become so cold?In the past, Christina would have stayed up in the study to accompany me, and she would have ended up dozing off on my lap by the time I finished working. Back then, she was very gentle, obedient, and clingy. Conversely, we’re like two magnets of the same poles now. The closer I get, the farther she stays away from me.

Nathaniel disregarded her, then shamelessly carried her and strode to the bed.

“Let go of me! Are you trying to be a jerk again?”

Nathaniel’s embrace grew tighter when they fell onto the bed.

Christina could hear his heart thumping loudly while her heart raced rapidly alongside his.

Nathaniel buried his head in her neck and said in a low voice, “Don’t move. My back hurts, and the wounds will bleed…”

Chapter 332 Fiasco

A raspy voice sounded in Christina’s ears like a calm string being plucked.

She lay quietly on the bed, unable to move a muscle. Like a cat returning to its den after hunting for food, Christina curled herself up and let Nathaniel hug her.

As the wind blew outside the window, the clouds moved briskly while the moonlight beamed on the bedroom carpet, creating a picturesque scene.

Nathaniel shut his eyes and enjoyed the familiar scent, his lips curling up instinctively.

When Christina woke up in the morning, he was no longer in bed. However, the lingering warmth did not dissipate completely.

She got herself changed before heading downstairs.

When Raymond saw her, he smiled and announced, “Mrs. Hadley, breakfast is ready. Mr. Hadley has just left to send Mr. Lucas and Ms. Camila to the kindergarten.”

Raymond felt that the duo had returned to old times when Nathaniel requested the kitchen to prepare Christina’s favorite cakes early in the morning.

“Okay.”

After breakfast. Christina left for the office. When she was about to enter the elevator, she ran into Madison. What a small world!

The latter looked awful. The dark circles under her eyes were so obvious, and she seemed lethargic.

Madison had spent the whole of last night at the police station. She was only released in the morning after completing a series of procedures.

She went home, hurriedly got changed, and rushed to the office without blowing her hair dry.

“I thought you’d disappear for a few days.” Hostility laced Christina’s voice.

An exasperated Madison clenched her fingers and gritted her teeth. Yet, she plastered a smile on her face and responded, “I don’t need to be detained. After all, I can still afford a lawyer.”

“I see. I’m not surprised that some people can speak against their conscience in this day and age.”

Then the elevator reached the twenty-first floor, and Christina walked out nonchalantly when the door opened.

Madison fixed her eyes on Christina’s back. At that moment, she secretly wished she could push Christina down the stairs and get rid of her once and for all.

Christina’s return was clearly a threat to Madison. How could the latter not turn green with envy at someone who could easily tug at Nathaniel’s heartstrings and affect his emotions all the time?

Madison pondered deeply over the matter the entire night. She thought about two guaranteed ways to easily defeat that woman with children.

One way is to let her find out about her husband’s affair with another woman, but this alone would not suffice in sending Christina into a frenzy. Another way is for her to discover Nathaniel’s illegitimate child…

A vicious look flashed past Madison’s eyes.

In the blink of an eye, it was the weekend again. Christina promised to bring her children to the amusement park.

The trio happily donned their matching outfits-a red striped shirt. Christina and Camila paired their tops with a white skirt, whereas Lucas wore it with a pair of casual white shorts.

When they arrived at the amusement park, Christina bought them a lollipop each before getting the entrance tickets.

Camila held the lollipop that was bigger than her puffy little face and asked, “Mommy, why don’t we ask Daddy to come with us?”

Christina chuckled and feigned nonchalance. She did not want to see that man, but she would never say that in front of her children. “It’s because Daddy is busy working. He’s got no free time, so we have to be more understanding toward him, okay?”

Right then, comprehension dawned on the children, and they nodded in response. “We totally understand. It’s the same when you were working and couldn’t accompany us in the past.”

Relieved, Christina patted them on the head. “Come, let’s go in and have fun!”

The lively music reverberated through the vast skies. Everyone who entered the amusement park had cheerful smiles on their faces.

Before they knew it, the three of them had had a go at all the rides in the park.

“Mommy, there’s an animal show. Let’s go and take a look!” Camila and Lucas ran toward the performance venue while holding Christina’s hands.

They got the front seats because they arrived early. Soon, spectators started to flock to the venue as the opening time approached.

“Hey, you guys go sit at the back and vacate the front row. An arrogant woman’s voice sounded behind them.

Christina and the children turned their heads, only to see Madison holding the hand of a three-year-old boy dressed in luxury clothes. “Come on! Get up and give us your seats.”

Christina furrowed her brows and asked, “Why should we do that?”

Madison’s purpose was not to watch the show but to let Christina discover the little boy. She whipped out a five-hundred note from her purse and handed it over. “There’s no need for you to give me yours. I’ll buy it as I wish.”

At that moment, even the blind could tell that Madison’s intention was to humiliate her. Contemptuous gazes were shot at her, one after another.

Christina’s face darkened immediately. She took out even more cash than Madison. “Here, take my money and leave at once. Don’t ruin my mood.”

Good vibes and a good mood were hard to come by. She did not mind resolving the problem with some money.

Madison’s expression changed, and she was rendered speechless.

The little boy standing beside her glared at Camila and yelled, “You lot should vacate your seats for us and leave at once. Otherwise, I’ll ask my daddy to kick you out.” The boy then lifted his chin. “My daddy is the CEO of this amusement park!”

A dark glint flitted across Christina’s eyes. The amusement park is owned by Hadley Corporation. In other words, this boy is the son of Nathaniel and Madison? No wonder she brought him here on purpose. Is she trying to assert dominance and intimidate me?

Even though Christina had expected that the relationship between the two was not that simple, she had never thought that Nathaniel and Madison would have a child together.

Instantly, Christina felt her heart sear with pain as though it had been stabbed, and the intensity of it made her gasp for air.

“Didn’t your mother teach you some manners? We got these seats because we came here first. What will become of this place if everyone acts unreasonably just like you?” A hint of anger laced Camila’s voice.

Her temperament was like Christina’s. They both spoke calmly and logically; they would not get exasperated easily when things happened unexpectedly.

Lucas, on the other hand, was not an easygoing character. He pursed his lips and reprimanded, “I’m sure you’ve heard of the saying that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, right, Madam? The proverb. describes exactly what runs in your family. If the adult behaves poorly, the child will tend to inherit. characteristics from his bad parent

“You little rascal!” Madison was furious. If there were not a lot of people around, she would have taught him a hard lesson.

Just then, the show commenced, and the crowd shifted their gazes to the stage.

Madison stood right at the front and blocked the view of many others. Within seconds, the audience at the back complained about her, and she was driven away by voices of dissatisfaction.

The look on her face was incredibly gloomy as she stormed out with the little boy,

Thankfully, Camila and Lucas were not bothered by the fiasco. They focused their attention on the stage performance.

It was already very late when the animal show ended. Hence, the kids agreed with Christina’s suggestion to head home right away, and the three of them strode toward the exit happily.

There were not many people leaving the venue at the same time as them. Christina waited at the entrance for her driver from Scenic Garden Manor to pick them up.

Suddenly, Camila noticed a familiar figure. She pointed at the back profiles of an adult and a child, exclaiming, “Lucas, look! Isn’t that the lady who requested us to get up from our seats? Why did they get into Daddy’s car?”

 

Chapter 333 Exhausting

Lucas looked in the direction Camila was pointing at. Sure enough, the two figures had gotten into a Maybach.

Madison was holding a boy in her arms as she sat beside Nathaniel. Her gaze was tender as she glanced at the man. “Thanks for picking me up. My car broke down, and it’s quite difficult to hail a cab here.”

“It’s fine. We’re heading the same way anyway.” Nathaniel kept his eyes on the documents on his tablet, not really minding the woman sitting beside him.

Madison had known that Nathaniel would be going to the amusement park for his meeting at this time. That was why she had deliberately called him and told him her car had broken down. She had been tailing Christina the moment she left the performance venue, counting down the exact time to have them see her getting into Nathaniel’s car.

“Daddy.” The boy who spoke was Norman. He really liked Nathaniel and saw him as his idol.

Nathaniel hummed in response and patted the boy’s head.

Norman reminded him of the two childish kids in Scenic Garden Manor. I suddenly miss them so much.

“Drive, Nathaniel said coldly.

“Yes, Mr. Hadley.”

As the car slowly drove away, Lucas glanced at the car plate number, and disappointment flashed across his naive-looking face. “That’s Daddy’s car… Why did that woman get into his car with a boy?”

Disappointment and confusion were written all over both children’s faces. Upon seeing that they were waiting for an answer, Christina felt her heart sink.

How should I explain to them that the boy earlier is their little brother from a different mother?

Just thinking of it made her feel horrible.

Christina couldn’t bear to hurt her children.

She found the strength to force her anger down and tried her best to act calm. “That woman is Daddy’s assistant. Perhaps they bumped into each other coincidentally, so they’re going back together.

Soon enough, a driver from Scenic Garden Manor arrived, and Christina said gently, “The car’s here. Let’s head back!”

Camila and Lucas were still confused, but they didn’t continue asking questions when they saw their mother wasn’t keen to explain much.

They got into the car and went back to Scenic Garden Manor.

It took about half an hour to travel to the manor, and the children were feeling drowsy by the time they arrived.

“You’re back?”

Nathaniel was sitting on the couch, looking absolutely perfect from every angle. Upon seeing them, he put down the tablet he was holding elegantly.

Lucas’ eyes lit up the moment he saw his father. He ran up to Nathaniel and asked, “Will you put us to bed. later, Daddy?”

Camila walked over as well. “I want you to tuck me into bed too, Daddy,” she said adorably.

The corners of Nathaniel’s lips tilted upward. He carried both children in his arms and said, “All right. I’ll help you two shower first.”

Christina went over to them, trying to take Camila back from him. Nathaniel would purposely shower the children and wet his clothes each time. Then, he would use that as an excuse to stay the night.

“It’s fine. I’ll shower them.”

Right when she reached out to carry them, Nathaniel quickly headed up the stairs with the children in his arms.

Christina felt uncomfortable as she watched him walk away.

I didn’t know he was so good at time management. He was with Madison earlier, yet he’s found the time to come here already.

Nathaniel helped to dry the children’s hair after bathing them, then carried them to bed.

He lay down in their bed after putting them to sleep, slowly letting out a breath as he did so. It turns out that caring for children is so tiring.

“What story do you want to listen to today?”

Camila and Lucas were like two little koalas as they climbed onto their father’s chest. They blinked and said to Nathaniel. “We don’t want to listen to stories today, Daddy. Let’s play some question games!”

The man chuckled when he saw the serious look on their faces. “All right, but lie down first before you

“Okay!” Camila and Lucas answered in unison before lying down obediently.

After that, Lucas asked eagerly, “How many babies do you have, Daddy?”

Nathaniel was confused by his question..

Camila quickly explained, “How many little babies like us do you have?”

“Three!” Nathaniel answered with resolution while holding up three fingers.

“What? You’ve got three babies, Daddy?” Lucas whined. A bitter look appeared on his face as if someone had snatched his favorite candies away from him.

That means the boy we saw earlier, the one who got into Daddy’s car, is also his baby!

Camila’s eyes reddened. She pouted and looked like she was about to burst into tears.

It looks like Daddy has another baby other than Lucas and me, I’m so sad…

Nathaniel had no idea what they were thinking about at all. “That’s right. One’s your mommy, one’s Lucas, and one’s Camila.”

Lucas’ disappointment instantly vanished when he heard that. “Don’t lie to us, Daddy!”

Nathaniel rubbed his head affectionately. “Of course, I will never lie to you.”

Camila and Lucas jumped up and down when they heard how certain he was when he answered. “Yay! Daddy’s the best!”

Their father could not understand how their moods could change so drastically.

Are all children like this?

“All right. Both of you should sleep now. Otherwise, your mommy is going to criticize me later.”

Nathaniel tucked them in again, only managing to get them to sleep when he read them a story.

Later, he finally walked out of their room. The lights in the corridor shone from above, elongating his shadow as he walked into the bedroom.

Christina walked out of the bathroom right then. She had taken a bath with hot water to wash away all her frustrations. Her tense muscles from earlier seemed to have finally relaxed after the shower.

Christina was drying her hair with her towel when she saw Nathaniel walking in.

“You should go home now,” she said, making it clear he should leave.

Nathaniel felt as though he was playing a video game. He had spent so much time and energy to clear a level but was sent back to the starting point the next day and needed to start again.

Every night when he felt that his relationship with Christina had improved, she would go back to being cold to him the next day.

However, Nathaniel felt as if he had been put under her curse. No matter how much shade she threw at him, he was still more than willing to get closer to her.

He walked over. Taking out the hairdryer, he plugged it in and began drying Christina’s hair.

“I… don’t need your help,” she said, reaching out to grab the hairdryer. As she leaned in, Nathaniel conveniently wrapped an arm around her waist. His eyes instantly met with her cautious ones the moment he lowered his head.

“You must be tired from taking care of the kids all day. Let me do it.”

He pressed her down so that she was seated on the couch and turned on the hairdryer again.

Nathaniel combed through Christina’s hair with his fingers in gentle strokes.

The woman looked up and could vaguely see his reflection through the glass windows.

No one would ever get tired of watching him while he was so engrossed in completing the task at hand.

“I only realized how tiring it is to take care of children after experiencing it myself in the past few days. It’s so exhausting, even more so than reading documents.”

 

Chapter 334 Check In On Daddy

Nathaniel spoke to himself, disregarding whether Christina was listening.

“You must’ve been exhausted, wandering around with the children all these years. Don’t leave again now that you’re back. I’ll make it up to you.”

Christina discreetly clenched her fists. Recalling the scene she had witnessed at the amusement park, she felt as if someone had dug out her heart and shattered it. Is he planning to make it up to me by getting back together with Madison behind my back? If I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I would’ve believed his lies,

Clarity washed over her at long last. Nathaniel wanted to have his cake and eat it too.

“I apologize for all the wrong things I’ve done in the past. Will you forgive me and stop being angry?” Nathaniel’s voice suddenly sounded particularly clear after he turned off the hairdryer.

Christina’s palm was almost bleeding from her digging her fingernails into her flesh. A dark glint flitted across her eyes as she remained silent.

Nathaniel found her thoughts even more elusive. He suddenly squatted down and gazed sincerely at Christina’s face. “Will you give me another chance?”

No one would have expected Nathaniel, one of the most elite people in society, to speak in such an obsequious tone.

Christina’s eyebrows twitched. A hint of emotion flashed across her eyes. “I haven’t made a decision yet. Can you not pressure me?”

Not having made a decision means she’s not refusing.

Nathaniel nodded. Compared to her previous attitude, her current demeanor was much better.

He thought to himself that as long as she was by his side, she would eventually accept him again. “I’ll carry you back to bed.”

With his sturdy arms, Nathaniel effortlessly picked up Christina and walked toward the bed.

After placing her down, he also climbed into bed.

As usual, he held her in his arms, and they drifted off to sleep together.

The next day, Christina was woken up by the alarm clock.

As soon as she opened her eyes, she saw Nathaniel’s handsome and serene sleeping countenance. He usually gets up early, so why isn’t he up yet today?

She felt nothing was more awkward than that moment.

Christina moved slightly, intending to get out of bed. Just as she sat up, Nathaniel pulled her back into his embrace.

“It’s the weekend. Let’s sleep in.” His hoarse voice sounded beside her ears.

Christina flinched. “I want to get up already”

Still, he showed no intention of letting go and merely asked indifferently, “Are you hungry?”

“Yes.” In fact, she wasn’t. She just didn’t want to snuggle in his embrace while she was sober, reinforcing their wonderful memories together.

“All right,” Nathaniel drawled before reluctantly loosening his hold on her.

Christina immediately sat up like an animal escaping a hunter’s trap.

She grabbed her clothes from the wardrobe and rushed into the bathroom.

When she came out. Nathaniel had woken up as well. One of them sat at the dressing table while the other changed his clothes at the side, carrying out activities of daily living like a typical couple.

Nathaniel donned a new suit and stepped out of the room. He saw Lucas waiting by the door like a sentinel.

“Daddy, it’s the weekend. Aren’t you staying home?”

Nathaniel bent down slightly, lifting Lucas into his arms. “Daddy has to work.”

“Ah…” Lucas pouted in disappointment. “Well, no one will be keeping me company today, then. Hmph.”

“Isn’t Mommy accompanying you?” Nathaniel rubbed his son’s puffed-out cheeks.

“On weekends, Mommy usually accompanies Camila to painting lessons. I don’t like to draw, so I don’t tag along. Still, it’s so boring staying at home alone.” Lucas lifted his head and sighed. “It looks like I’ll be a lonely child with no one to care for me today.”

Taking in Lucas’ troubled expression, Nathaniel couldn’t help but laugh. “If you have nothing to do, why not follow me to the office?”

“Really? I can go to your office?” Lucas’ sorrowful expression was swiftly wiped off and replaced by a look of delight. The change was so abrupt that it took Nathaniel by surprise.

“Of course.”

Nathaniel carried Lucas downstairs to have their breakfast in the dining hall.

Lucas wrapped his arms around his father’s neck and uttered coyly, “Since you’re so keen on having me accompany you, I suppose I can go along with your request.”

“Let’s have breakfast first, you cheeky boy.”

After their meal, Lucas happily got into the car before anyone else and followed his father to the office. Twenty minutes later, the car slowly pulled up at the front entrance of the company.

The receptionist’s eyes shone when she noticed the CEO’s car. At the thought that she could see Nathaniel’s exquisite visage, she felt it was worth it even if she had to work overtime during the weekend.

As the car door opened, a small figure emerged.

Lucas was dressed in a children’s suit, a white shirt paired with a black bow tie. He wore custom-made Irushean leather shoes, and his hair was neatly combed. His dark eyes gleamed, and he exuded an aura of grandeur, giving him the appearance of a little prince.

Nathaniel held Lucas’ hand as they walked through the main entrance.

“Oh my, is that little boy Mr. Hadley’s son?”

“He’s so handsome, and his facial features are identical to Mr. Hadley’s. He even inherited Mr. Hadley’s bearing!”

The sound of the women’s exclamations prompted Lucas to glance back curiously. The smitten expressions on their faces caused him to think that women could actually be quite frightening. Isn’t Mommy worried since Daddy is so popular at the office?

They took the elevator up to the CEO’s office.

As soon as they entered the room, Lucas took a lap around the spacious office like a bird let out of its cage. “Wow! Daddy’s office is huge!”

“Do you want to play around by yourself, or should I have my assistant buy you some toys?” Nathaniel’s work for the day was no lesser than usual.

Lucas shook his head and uttered earnestly. “That’s not needed. Just give me a tablet.”

He actually had online classes, too, and needed to hand in his homework using a tablet.

I’ll buy you a new tablet.” Nathaniel texted Sebastian to purchase one.

Lucas chuckled mischievously. “Mommy said I’m not allowed to use electronic devices. I can only accept it if you can persuade her otherwise.”

Nathaniel didn’t catch what Lucas was implying.

Soon, Sebastian bought the tablet and walked into the office. “Mr. Hadley, is your tablet not working? Do you need me to help you transfer the data?”

“Mr. Taggart, it’s not that Daddy’s tablet isn’t working. He just bought one for me to use temporarily.”

Sensing someone tugging at the hem of his clothes, Sebastian looked down and saw the clever Lucas standing before him.

He crouched down and said, “I see. If I had known this tablet was for you, I would’ve gotten a cartoon case

Nathaniel preferred simplicity, so Sebastian didn’t consider getting any accessories earlier.

Lucas received the tablet. “That’s not needed, Mr. Taggart. I’m just using it temporarily for online classes. Mommy forbids me from playing with tablets.”

Sebastian smiled. Kids these days really do have a lot of homework.

Inside the quiet office, Nathaniel and Lucas were both occupied with their respective tasks. Lucas stole a glance at his father, who was absorbed in work, and secretly snapped a picture to send to Christina via WhatsApp.

Hehe!

He sent her a message: Mommy, I’m helping you check in on Daddy. He’s doing well, working hard to support us.

 

Chapter 335 It Is Entirely Possible

As noon approached, Nathaniel intended to take Lucas to a nearby restaurant for lunch.

Just as they were about to leave, Sebastian rushed in, a rare look of urgency etched on his usually composed face. “Mr. Hadley, we have a problem. Someone is attacking our security system, and all of our computers have frozen, he reported.

“What did the technical department say?” Nathaniel immediately rose from his seat.

If their clients’ information and business arrangements were to leak out, it would spell disaster for the company.

Sebastian’s face paled. “The technical department can only resist the attack for now, but they won’t be able to hold off for long.”

Four years ago, when the company’s data had been leaked, Nathaniel had taken measures to strengthen the company’s cybersecurity. Hence, Nathaniel couldn’t fathom how the hacker could have breached their enhanced system.

A cold glint appeared in his eyes. “What use is the technical department if they can’t even stop a hacker?”

He made his way toward the elevator, only to notice that Lucas was following him.

“I want to go check it out too,” Lucas said innocently.

Sebastian was rendered speechless. We’re going to work not to play house. Perhaps Mr. Hadley is only letting him tag along simply because he doesn’t want to leave the child alone in his office.

The technical department had descended into chaos. Several technicians were frantically working to fend off the intrusive malware, but even the three of them couldn’t hold off the single hacker’s attack.

Suddenly, they received an email from the attacker demanding thirty million in exchange for ceasing the assault. Otherwise, they threatened to make all of Hadley Corporation’s data public.

A data leak of such scale would be akin to stripping Hadley Corporation naked and throwing it into the street. It would be a devastating blow for any company.

Clearly, the hacker was after money.

Nathaniel walked in and his stern expression intensified as he took in the sight of his staff struggling helplessly against the invasion.

“Mr. Hadley, should we pay? If the hacker leaks the company’s information, the repercussions are going to be… dire, the director of the technical department suggested in a small voice.

Thirty million in exchange for their data’s security seemed like a good deal.

Nathaniel furrowed his brows, anger simmering beneath his cool façade.

Agreeing to the hacker’s blackmail would only encourage them to strike again to demand more money from Hadley Corporation in the future.

Nathaniel would never agree to it.

“Find the best programmers no matter the cost. We must get them here,” Nathaniel said.

The programmers in the department were experienced seniors with annual salaries of over five million. If even they couldn’t handle this issue, it was hard to imagine who else could do so.

All they could do was lower their heads in shame.

“Isn’t it just a Trojan horse? You guys are acting like it’s the end of the world.” A childish voice broke the tense silence in the department.

The programmers turned to find a small figure standing beside them. He was only slightly taller than the chair beside him.

The boy bore an uncanny resemblance to Nathaniel. They couldn’t help but wonder if he was their boss”

“Boy, don’t talk nonsense when you don’t know anything,” one programmer responded. They had never seen a Trojan horse malware this vicious. Even their director was at a loss.

Lucas pushed the programmer from his chair disdainfully and pouted. “You’ll see if I’m talking nonsense,” he retorted.

“Mr. Lucas…” Sebastian’s voice quivered with anxiety as he reached out to take the boy off the chair. However, he was stopped by Nathaniel’s firm grip.

The next sequence of events had everyone at a loss for words.

In a state of disbelief, they observed the little boy’s tender, rosy hands dancing across the keyboard wi astounding speed. His nimbleness was such that his keystrokes remained invisible, with only the resounding clacks of the keys echoing in the room.

As he worked, it was shown on the computer screen that over eighty percent of the malware had been removed.

Within the span of half an hour, the hacker’s malware had been removed completely, and the company’s computers all resumed normal operations.

The director of the technical department gasped in shock as though his mind had just survived a storm.

A problem that had stumped more than a dozen of their finest programmers had just been solved by a child.

The realization filled them with mortification.

“Problem solved. Your firewall is far from impressive. Otherwise, the hacker wouldnt have been able to hack into your system so easily,” Lucas remarked casually. He hopped down from the chair, clapping his hands merrily.

Nathaniel didn’t know that Lucas was proficient with computers.

Christina had never mentioned it..

Sebastian scooped Lucas into his arms excitedly. “Mr. Lucas, you’ve been hiding your talents so well!”

The programmers flocked around, their eyes gleaming with admiration. “Mr. Lucas, how did you do that? Could you teach us?”

Acquiring even a fraction of such impressive skill would be a fortune.

Lucas blushed at the compliments. A small smirk on his face revealed his pearly white teeth as he said, “It’s nothing impressive, really.”

“Mr. Lucas, when will you be able to guide us in our work?” a few programmers asked, regarding the little boy as if he were a national treasure. They were eager to get closer to him.

“I’ll come over during my weekend off.” Lucas promptly agreed.

He had only readily agreed to the request as he thought his father’s company’s cybersecurity was lacking. and there were many vulnerabilities that he wanted to fix.

The trio returned to Nathaniel’s office soon after.

Madison was tidying up documents on a desk. She saw Nathaniel holding a little boy in his arms, and she instantly recognized the boy to be Lucas.

I’ve intentionally shown the boy to Christina the day before. Isn’t she supposed to be angry? Why would she let the boy follow Nathaniel?

Madison had been confident that her actions yesterday had struck Christina’s pride, but she was now puzzled as to why her plan was not working.

Sebastian poured a glass of juice for Lucas as he attempted to curry favor with the little boy. “Mr. Lucas, your programming skills are really incredible. Could you possibly help me recover some data?”

Lucas took over the glass of juice and took a sip before answering. “Sure!”

“That’s fantastic! Four years ago, someone breached our internal system, stole data on a project, and published it online. The intruder erased all traces of the breach, and to this day we still can’t find the culprit,” Sebastian said.

As he recounted the incident, he gritted his teeth furiously.

They had no choice but to fast-track the project to minimize the company’s losses. Those few months had them working so hard that it had caused a significant toll on their health.

The most frustrating part was their inability to identify the perpetrator.

“How can you possibly find anything after four years?” Madison asked.

Lucas’ eyes fell upon the woman, and his first impression was anything but favorable. However, he had heard from his mother that this woman was his father’s assistant.

Why would Daddy employ such a morally questionable character?

Lucas had noticed the way Madison looked at Nathaniel. It was akin to a cat hungrily eyeing a fish. It was obvious that her gaze was filled with ill intent.

“Others may not be able to do it, but I assure you, in my hands, it is entirely possible,” Lucas countered her dismissive comment with a huff.

 

Chapter 336 Inconsiderate

Madison started panicking. “We got rid of all the computer equipment back then. The computers we’re using now are all new, so there’s no way you can check on that.”

They had replaced all of their computers with new ones for security reasons after they failed to find out who had stolen the company’s information back then.

“How could a young kid know anything about something as complicated as computer programs?” Madison mocked in a low voice while quietly clenching her fists. I recall that at the time, not even the director of the technical department could figure out what had happened.

Sebastian turned to her and replied solemnly, “You don’t know this, but Mr. Lucas just helped the company resolve a crisis. Also, I didn’t get rid of all the computers back then. I’ve been keeping one at home. I hoped we might one day meet an expert who could help us find the mastermind, but I never expected the expert would turn out to be Mr. Lucas!”

At that time. I remember feeling as though getting rid of the computers was equivalent to destroying evidence. Hence, I asked to take one back and hid it at home.

Madison was shocked as she had always thought the computers had been destroyed. It had never occurred to her that he might have taken one back with him, and she could not help cursing inwardly, Damn it! Why did he have to keep something that shouldn’t still exist?

“That’s good. I’ll definitely help you find out who did it. Lucas promised while patting his chest.

Nathaniel patted the boy’s head. “Wait here for a while. Once I’ve finished up some work, I’ll take you to get something to eat.”

“Okay!” Lucas blinked playfully, his dark eyes shining as brilliantly as though they hid thousands of stars in their depths.

As Nathaniel went to do his work, Lucas wandered the corridors out of boredom. Daddy’s office is so big that I could play soccer here. The next time I come, I should bring a soccer ball to kick around.

When Madison saw him walking about alone, she could not help thinking how much his appearance took after Nathaniel, especially his eyes. His calm gaze had a maturity that went beyond his years. However, his delicate chin resembled Christina’s, and the more Madison looked at it, the more intense her hatred became.

She walked over and said, “Mr. Lucas, you shouldn’t be wandering about like this.”

Raising his head, Lucas looked at her with a hint of contempt. “This is my daddy’s company. I can go wherever I want.”

“It’s not like you’re his only son. You saw that I was holding the hand of a little boy the other day, didn’t you?” she asked while narrowing her eyes, her gaze sinister.

Lucas was momentarily taken aback. I remember that rude little boy, of course.

Madison moved closer and continued frostily, “He’s also your daddy’s son, so don’t be so cocky. If you don’t behave yourself, your daddy will abandon you.”

“You’re lying!”

Children are not as good at controlling their emotions as adults. Lucas glared at her and shouted hotly,

“He said there are only three precious people in his life-me, Camila, and Mommy! It doesn’t include that little boy you’re talking about!”

Seeing him angry filled Madison with glee. “Well, your daddy lied to you. If you don’t believe me, you can go home and ask your mother.”

As he recalled how Christina had seemed evasive while answering his question the previous day, his confidence wavered.

“You’re a bad person. I don’t believe you!” Fuming, he pushed her aside and ran into the office.

Madison’s lips curved into a slight smirk. As expected, it’s easier to deceive children.

When Nathaniel finished his work and returned to his office, he saw Lucas sitting on the couch with his cheeks puffed out in anger.

He walked over and caressed Lucas’ head. “Are you angry because I’ve kept you waiting for very long?”

“Hmph!” Lucas looked away, refusing to meet Nathaniel’s gaze. He was a jumbled mess of emotions and did not know whether to continue believing the latter.

“Let’s go. I’ve reserved a table at a kids’ restaurant. We’ll pick up Camila and have a meal there together.”

Carrying Lucas in his arms, Nathaniel noticed the boy’s mood showed no sign of lifting. “You’re a boy. You can’t be so petty.”

“I’m not being petty!” Lucas retorted. I just don’t want to share my daddy with others!

Lucas sighed, not knowing what to say.

When they arrived, Christina led Camila, whose class had ended, into the restaurant.

The two children were distracted by all the interesting toys and started playing in the spacious ball pit.

Nathaniel had ordered the dishes in advance. No sooner had they sat down than the waiters brought out all their food.

As he cut his steak, he asked, “Why haven’t you ever mentioned that Lucas is a computer whiz?”

Christina’s heart lurched violently. She looked up at him and asked, “How do you know he’s good with. computers?”

I’ve been hiding this matter very well. In fact, to ensure Lucas’ safety, I don’t allow him to touch any electronic devices, I even monitor him whenever he needs to use the tablet.

Seeing how strongly she reacted, Nathaniel knew she was aware of Lucas’ talent. “Learning computer skills isn’t something dangerous. It won’t be harmful as long as we monitor his screen time.”

I know that exposing children to electronic devices for extended periods can be bad for the eyes and brain development. However, if we set reasonable limits, it won’t be a big problem.

Christina’s expression immediately turned as cold as ice. “I’m not talking about that. Did you know his exceptional skills caused him to be pursued by lawless criminals?”

The memory of what they had gone through while abroad still made her shudder.

After a pause, she continued, “I admit he’s very talented. However, that was also what brought him trouble. Just after he turned three, he became a well-known figure on the hacker list due to his incredible skills. He cracked many Trojan programs that many adults could not. Not long after that, a local organization. wanted him to hack into a major corporation’s system to gain profit from it. I had to take the kids and flee from city to city to escape from those people. Did you know that?”

Her eyes instantly reddened as she recounted the harrowing incident. Those people wanted to use Lucas’ skills to make money illegally. How could I stand by and watch my son get involved in something

so horrible? In order to protect him. I’ve never revealed his talent to others. All I want is for him to have a normal childhood.

An invisible force seemed to grip Nathaniel’s heart. He had a suffocating sensation in his chest, making it hard for him to breathe. I knew they had a difficult time overseas, but I never thought their lives had also been in danger. No wonder Lucas said she doesn’t allow him to use electronic devices. So, this is the reason.

“Christina, it’s my fault for being inconsiderate, Nathaniel said, deeply apologetic. I’ve been doing a pathetic job, carelessly upsetting them at every turn.

Christina lowered her gaze and did not look at him. “I’m not blaming you. I don’t ask for much. However, since you insist on forcing your way into our lives, I ask that you maintain an image a father should have in front of the kids. I don’t want them to get upset because of you.”

During this period, I’ve finally gotten over what happened. Lucas and Camila like him a lot, and I’ve no reason to deprive them of their right to need a father.

Chapter 337 No Longer Interested In You

Okay, I promise you.”

Nathaniel had never sounded more determined.

Christina did not want to mention anything about Madison to him, nor did she want to bother herself with the two of them.

Being able to provide a warm home for the kids was enough.

Since a long time ago, she had already felt like a stranger in this marriage.

After lunch, the two kids fell asleep on the way home.

Looking at how peaceful the kids were when they were sleeping, Christina felt that everything she had done was worth it.

On Monday morning. Nathaniel took Lucas and Camila to the kindergarten.

Camila’s hair was tied into two small braids. She asked with a smile, “Daddy, will you come to pick us up after class today?”

“If you want me to, I will.”

Lucas exclaimed with joy, “Of course we want you to come!”

A faint smile formed on Nathaniel’s lips. “If you want me to come, I’ll be here. I’ll even be the first one to pick you up, okay?”

Lucas and Camila were so excited that they were jumping up and down.

“Okay! You’re the best, Daddy. Remember to be the first to arrive!”

For some reason, every child believed that having their parents be the first ones to fetch them home was something to be very proud of.

“All right, go in now.” Nathaniel kissed their foreheads.

“Bye, Daddy!” said the two cute kids in unison.

Lucas held his sister’s hand and walked into the kindergarten. Nathaniel flashed a small smile as he looked at their adorable backs.

The scene was like a heartwarming painting that moved him greatly.

Lucas and Camila entered the classroom.

The teacher brought in a little boy, who had a handsome face and was dressed neatly.

“Hello, everyone. We have a new classmate in our class today. His name is Norman. Let’s welcome him together!”

All the students turned their gaze toward the little boy who was standing on the stage and smiling toothily.

Lucas and Camila recognized the little boy as the child of the mean lady from yesterday.

Lucas, why is this rude little boy in the same class as us?” Camila asked in confusion.

Recalling what the mean lady had said to him at the office yesterday, Lucas instantly shot a disdainful look at the boy. “Let’s ignore him. We shall not play with him”

He did not want to play with someone who had stolen his father from him.

After he greeted his classmates, the teacher asked Norman to find a seat by himself.

As there were no fixed seats in kindergarten, the children could sit wherever they wanted.

Norman deliberately walked to Lucas’ side and declared in an arrogant tone, “I want to sit here.

“This is my brother’s seat. You can sit somewhere else,” said Camila with a disdainful look in her eyes.

“The teacher said we can sit anywhere, so I want to sit here. Otherwise, I won’t leave!” Norman sat on Lucas’ small chair, forcibly pushing him aside.

Camila, who was normally quiet, could not help but extend her arms out and shove Norman. “You’re not allowed to bully my brother!”

Norman ran to the teacher and used his cuteness to win her over. Due to his fair skin and delicate features, the teacher immediately took a liking to him.

The teacher brought out an extra chair. “Lucas, Norman says that he wants to sit with you. Since you’re the little leader of the class, please take care of your new classmate.”

Once the teacher walked away, the obedient look on his face disappeared and was replaced by a look of contempt. He sat down gloatingly

Lucas immediately pulled Camila away. “Let’s sit over there.”

The two kids intentionally avoided Norman. They simply refused to sit with him.

When the kids were given some free time, a few of them were playing soccer Norman ignored the rules completely. After Lucas stole the ball from him a couple of umes, he got angry and shoved Lucas.

Lucas fell to the ground and scraped his palmis. The pain made him inhale sharply. “You’re cheating! You deliberately pushed me!”

Norman sheered, “You’re as skinny as a stick. Don’t blame me for not being able to and still

Lucas stood up from the grass and roared angrily at Norman, “You’re the one who’s like a stick! You’re as aly and annoying as your mother

At that moment, the teacher walked over “What happened

Norman immediately put on a puful look when he saw the teacher approaching him. He threw himself into the teacher’s arms and said with a sufle, “Its Lucas 1 accidentally bumped into him and he scolded

With the tears streaming down his cheeks, he played the part of the victim well.

The teacher quickly felt sorry for Norman Frowning she looked at Lucas “Lucas, you shouldn’t bully your new classmate.”

“I didn’t! Hmph! You’re all bad people. I don’t want to play with you anymore!” Lucas wiped his sweat and ran off the field angrily.

Camila quickly caught up to him and comforted him. Taking out a small handkerchief from her backpack, she gently wiped Lucas sweat. “Lucas, don’t be angry. I don’t like Norman either. I’ll only play with you!”

Lucas hugged his sister, feeling upset. He refused to admit defeat. There was no way he would lose to Norman, who only knew how to put on a pitiful act. That was not how a real man should behave.

Suddenly remembering what the mean lady had said, Lucas stared at his sister seriously and asked, “Camila, if Daddy has another little baby, and that baby is Norman, will you accept it?”

Camila did not understand why her brother was suddenly saying such things. “Norman is Daddy’s baby? No… Daddy said that he only has us and Mommy!”

Is Lucas so angry that he lost his mind? He’s talking nonsense!

Lucas did not want it to be true either. Pursing his thin lips, he said angrily, “It’s what the mean lady said! She claimed that Norman is her and Daddy’s child. She said we can ask Mommy if we don’t believe her!”

“Then let’s go back and ask Mommy!” Camila’s eyes were filled with determination.

After class, Nathaniel came to fetch them home.

Norman, who was standing at the back of the group, saw Nathaniel smiling while carrying Lucas and Camila.

It was his first time seeing Nathaniel smile.

When the three of them returned to Scenic Garden Manor, Christina had not returned.

The two kids reluctantly went to the dining table and sat down after Nathaniel told them to. As soon as they finished eating, they stood at the door and waited for their mother.

“Why aren’t you guys playing?” Nathaniel came down from his study and saw two small figures squatting at the door like little puppies.

“We’re waiting for Mommy!”

“We have something very important to ask her!”

Nathaniel accompanied them. The three of them looked up and gazed at the stars in the sky. They waited. for quite a while before they finally heard the sound of a car entering the gate.

When the car stopped, Christina looked out the window and saw the three figures sitting in the front yard. Two of them were tiny while the remaining one was tall, resembling a lion guarding the entrance

with its two cubs.

As soon as she got out of the car, she saw two cute faces eagerly staring at her. “Mommy, can you spend the night with us today?”

They wanted to seek clarification from her.

“Of course!”

Chrema carried the two adorable kids and walked toward the house. While doing so, she turned around and teased Nathaniel. “Looks like your novelty has worn off. The kids are no longer interested in you

 

Chapter 338 The Brutal Truth

Looking at the backs of the three individuals, Nathaniel felt a deep sense of loss.

He wondered when they would ever fully accept him.

Christina took the kids upstairs. After taking a bath, the two of them sat on the bed wearing adorable cartoon pajamas.

“Why are you so well-behaved today?” Christina asked. Lucas was usually an energetic child. She rarely saw him in such a dispirited state, like a sunflower without sunlight.

Lucas lifted his crystal-clear eyes. He seemed to be waiting for Christina to realize his unusual behavior. “Mommy, you mustn’t lie to me.”

He didn’t believe in Nathaniel, but he trusted Christina a lot.

Christina was completely clueless about the kids’ secret. As she absent-mindedly wiped the water droplets off Camila’s hair with a towel, she replied casually, “Sure. Go ahead and ask.”

Lucas and Camila exchanged a glance. His gaze seemed to be saying. “Why don’t you ask?”

Camila shook her head. You ask.

Lucas bit his thin lips. He knew it was his responsibility as the elder brother at times like this, so he asked solemnly. “Does Daddy have any other kids besides us?”

The kid’s innocent voice was soft, yet it struck Christina’s heart like a ringing bell.

Christina stopped what she was doing, wondering if Lucas knew something.

She endured the wrenching pain in her heart and asked, “Who told you that? Your daddy?”

Lucas shook his head. “No. We’re just curious.”

Christina gazed at their pure and innocent faces. Her slightly anxious face was reflected in their clear eyes.

How heartbreaking it would be if the kids were to find out about that…

She really didn’t want such young kids to be burdened with the conflicts of the adult world.

In less than three seconds, Christina hid the pain within her heart. She raised her hand to pinch Lucas” cheek and said jokingly, “Silly boy, what are you saying? Your daddy and I only have you two little sweethearts.”

“Really?” Lucas and Camila exclaimed excitedly at the same time.

With her head held high, Christina smiled and said, “I never tell lies to little kids.”

“Yay! Mommy is the best!” After getting a positive answer from their mother, the two kids joyfully jumped on the bed, just like two delighted little bunnies.

“Okay, it’s getting late. Time to sleep. Otherwise, we’ll be late for kindergarten tomorrow.” Christina tightly embraced the two little figures, feeling the warmth emanating from their soft bodies as if it could drive away the coldness in her heart.

“Well sleep right away Lucas and Camila obediently lay down on the bed. Christina pulled the blanket over them, gently covering their little bodies. Her gaze was tender as she looked at their small faces, and before she knew it, her vision became blurry.

She couldn’t bring herself to tell the kids the brutal truth. At that moment, she felt as if she was walking a thorny path. Even she herself didn’t know how far she could go.

After coming out of the kids’ room, Christina took a deep breath and turned to walk toward her bedroom.

The moment she glanced up, she immediately noticed the imposing figure of Nathaniel standing at the doorway. He seemed to be waiting for her.

“Are the kids asleep?” he asked with concern.

“Yeah,” Christina said casually and stretched out her hand to open the door. Her figure was delicate and slender, so she could gently avoid Nathaniel as she walked inside.

Seeing that she was avoiding him like the plague, Nathaniel felt his heart sink. He turned around and walked in as well.

The air seemed to have frozen because of his formidable aura.

“Get out,” Christina said coldly.

Nathaniel gazed at her slender back. She appeared fragile and delicate yet displayed a greater determination than anyone else.

Even though Christina was not willing to let him stay these past few days, she didn’t use such a hostile tone to drive him away.

He could sense that something was off with her. “Christina, what’s wrong with you?

Christina snorted. How dare he ask me that? When did he learn to put on such an act?

“I don’t want to interfere with what you do outside, but once you step into Scenic Garden Manor and acknowledge the kids, please take on the responsibilities of a father.”

Nathaniel’s expression turned gloomy. “It’s my first time as a father. Just tell me if there’s anything I need to work on.”

Christina tightened her fists, and her eyebrows twitched slightly. “I don’t want to argue with you. Leave and don’t disturb the children.”

It was late at night, so even the slightest sound of breathing was amplified. She worried that she would be too worked up and wake up the two kids in the next room.

Time passed quietly. Christina grew impatient when she saw that Nathaniel did not move. “Get out.”

Once again, her icy-cold voice echoed in the room. The atmosphere in the room instantly became thick with tension.

Despite sensing her frustration, Nathaniel remained rooted to his spot.

He wouldn’t leave as long as he could be in the same room with Christina. He wouldn’t let go if he could. hug her, and he wouldn’t shift his gaze if he could look at her a little longer.

Christina suppressed the urge to push him out. She knew that even if she were to train in martial arts for several more years, she wouldn’t be a match for Nathaniel in terms of strength.

In the end, her rationality prevailed. Since she could not chase him away, she just let him be.

She took off her coat, leaving only a plain white nightgown on her body. After that, she lifted the covers and settled into bed.

Before she could even settle down, she felt movement beside her. By the time she realized it, her hands and feet were already restrained by Nathaniel.

“Nathaniel!” Christina shouted. Don’t get ahead of yourself over and over again!

Nathaniel rested his handsome face on her slender shoulder. “I’ve had a long day at work. Let’s not talk anymore. Be good and go to sleep.”

Christina felt suffocated.

Her rightful authority had been instantly snatched away by him.

However, this time, Christina didn’t spoil him. “There are so many rooms outside. Can’t you sleep there? If not, you can go find your-” Before she could utter the word “Madison, Nathaniel sealed her lips.

Christina’s indifference and anger had left Nathaniel feeling anxious, and she wouldn’t listen to anything. he said. He decided to simply silence her.

The scorching breath poured relentlessly into Christina’s lungs. She felt as if her entire body had been engulfed by that domineering aura.

The next day, the morning sun shone into the room.

Lucas and Camila energetically hopped off the bed. The housekeepers entered to help them get dressed neatly before taking them downstairs for breakfast.

The butler reminded the housekeepers, “Remember to complete your tasks well. I’ll return in the afternoon.”

He was carrying a red basket in his hand that contained incense, some wine bottles, blankets, and fruits. After saying that, he prepared to leave.

Lucas was curious, so he approached Raymond and asked, “Mr. Patel, where are you going?”

“Are you going back home with the fruits?” Camila asked innocently.

Raymond explained cheerfully, “I’m not going home. I’m going to pray.”

The two kids seemed as if they had stumbled upon something intriguing. They held onto him and wouldn’t let him go. “Going to pray? What does that mean?”

 

Chapter 339 Not Fit To Be A Teacher

“Well, praying means going to the church and telling your wishes to God. Then, God will fulfill your wishes,” Raymond explained.

Lucas and Camila stared at him incredulously because they couldn’t believe such an incredible place that could grant people’s wishes existed.

“Mr. Patel, could you please tell us where this church that you are going to is?” Lucas asked eagerly.

“It’s located at Dawson Lane in the north of the city. I find God to be the most responsive there!” Raymond put on a hat and smiled. “I’m going off now, Mr. Lucas, Ms. Camila.”

Then, he turned and walked out of the front gate.

The housekeeper led the two children into the dining room for breakfast before taking them to the kindergarten.

After entering the classroom, Lucas and Camila immediately noticed Norman, who was dressed in branded clothes. He was holding a new model airplane and surrounded by many children who wanted to have a closer look at the new toy.

“My daddy bought this for me. It’s a limited edition! None of you have it,” Norman exclaimed proudly

He deliberately spoke loudly to catch Lucas’ attention.

Lucas held Camila’s hand and found seats for both of them. Since there was some free time before class, they chose a storybook and began reading it attentively.

Camila tilted her head and looked at Lucas. “Does God really exist, Lucas?”

“I think He does. Mr. Patel will never lie to us,” Lucas replied confidently.

Propping her chin up with her chubby little fist, Camila said with anticipation, “Isn’t it amazing that wish can come true? I really want to go to the church and pray too!”

Lucas felt the same deep down. “Me too.”

Their innocent thoughts were soon interrupted by the ringing school bell. Their day at the kindergarten was packed with activities, but they were allowed to spend their time freely in the afternoon. While Camila was having an art lesson, Lucas remained in the classroom.

Lucas was reading a book halfway through when a model airplane suddenly blocked his sight. He was slightly taken aback and recognized it as the toy that Norman had been showing off that morning.

Lucas stared at Norman warily as he raised his delicate chin. “Take it away.”

“This is the latest model airplane, and it’s remote-controlled. It even makes realistic sounds. I didn’t let the –other kids touch it even if they wanted to, but I’ll let you feel it,” Norman said arrogantly.

The reason he had brought the airplane to the kindergarten was to show off in front of Lucas. However, he didn’t expect Lucas not to glance at him at all the whole day.

Lucas impatiently shoved the airplane in front of him aside and turned sideways with his book, rejecting Norman’s offer.

Norman’s face instantly became pully with anger. After picking up the airplane, which was shoved onto the ground, he smashed it onto the floor again.

The model airplane was instantly reduced to pieces.

Lucas stared at the scattered pieces of the airplane on the ground with his eyebrows furrowed. Why did he smash the airplane for no reason?

The next moment, Norman started wailing. Pointing at Lucas, he sobbed, “Ms. Jacobs, Lucas broke my airplane…”

Feeling anxious, Lucas jumped from his seat and refuted, “You’re lying! I didn’t break your toy!”

“It was you! I didn’t want to lend you my toy, so you broke it!” Norman glared at him, his anger convincing enough for people to believe him.

At that moment, Stacy Jacobs, their teacher, walked over to ask about the incident after hearing the commotion.

Pretending to be aggrieved. Norman lay on Stacy’s shoulder and tearfully recounted what had happened. After putting the blame on Lucas, he pretended to be forgiving and said, “Ms. Jacobs, I don’t think Lucas. did it on purpose. As long as he apologizes to me, I won’t hold a grudge against him.”

Lucas had never seen anyone better at pretending than Norman. “Apologize to you? Dream on!”

Why should I apologize when I haven’t done anything wrong?

“Lucas, what happened to you? You never misbehave like this. You damaged a classmate’s toy, yet you refuse to apologize.” Stacy was already convinced that Lucas was the one at fault. “Go stand outside the office as your punishment!”

“I didn’t break Norman’s toy airplane, Ms. Jacobs!” Lucas yelled, his eyes widening in anger.

Stacy was livid. “You are so disrespectful to your teacher! You will stand outside the office, and I’m going to call your parents!”

“Ms. Jacobs…”

“Go!” Stacy grabbed Lucas’ hand roughly and pulled him out.

Watching as Lucas was taken away, Norman couldn’t help snickering triumphantly.

Lucas was frustrated, but Stacy wouldn’t listen to his protests because she believed Norman, who had played the victim well.

After class, Christina received a phone call from Stacy and rushed to the kindergarten.

As she turned the corner and entered the hallway, she saw Lucas standing outside the office with his head. hung low. It pained her heart to see him so disheartened.

Beside Lucas was Camila, who was holding a drawing board in her hand and tightly gripping her brother’s hand with another.

Christina quickly picked up her pace and walked over to them. Squatting down in front of the kids, she asked with concern, “What happened, Lucas? Why did the teacher punish you?”

Lucas could no longer hold back his emotions the moment he saw Christina. “Mommy…”

One thing that Christina couldn’t bear to see the most was her kids crying. Patting Lucas gently on the back, she comforted. “It’s okay, Lucas. Can you tell Mommy what happened?”

Lucas took a while to stop crying. Then, he told Christina about everything that had happened.

“Who is Norman? Why would he do that on purpose?” Christina couldn’t understand Norman’s intentions despite knowing that he was framing Lucas on purpose.

“He said he’s Daddy’s son with another woman. Camila and I don’t like him, but he always bothers us. Mommy, I don’t want to be in the same kindergarten as him. Can we transfer to another kindergarten?”

He didn’t want to face Norman every day, who was hypocritical and full of lies.

Norman is Madison and Nathaniel’s child. No wonder Lucas and Camila asked if he has another child with another woman…

Christina clenched her fists tightly. Did Nathaniel intentionally arrange for Norman to be in this kindergarten?

Christina had thought it was fine as long as they didn’t see each other because she wanted to stay out of Madison and her child’s affairs. However, this arrangement of them was intolerable.

Just then, Stacy came out of the office and approached Christina. “Are you Christina Steele, Lucas’ mother?”

Christina looked up in anger. “Ms. Jacobs, don’t you think it’s unfair that you didn’t listen to Lucas’ explanations before reprimanding him?”

Stacy felt pressured by Christina’s domineering aura, but she couldn’t lose her authority in front of a parent. “I have understood the situation completely. Lucas disrespected his classmate and showed no sign of remorse. There’s no problem with me punishing him” Looking down at Lucas, Stacy maintained her calm demeanor as she asked, “Do you admit your mistake now?”

“I won’t admit it because I didn’t do anything wrong.” Lucas clenched his fists and glared at Stacy.

“My brother will never break someone else’s toy!” Camila added, defending Lucas.

If Lucas said he didn’t do it, he definitely didn’t. Camila believed in him completely.

Christina stepped in between the two of them. “It seems like this kindergarten is only respectable on the surface but not on the inside. You are not fit to be my son’s teacher with that attitude of yours!”

Chapter 340 Running Away From Home

Stacy’s expression darkened as if she had been slapped. This was a prestigious elite kindergarten.

Among all the prestigious kindergartens, they ranked first. All of the teachers who were hired had high qualifications.

Having been a homeroom teacher for so many years, Stacy was filled with a sense of superiority. She couldn’t tolerate others tarnishing her reputation like that.

“I can now see why Lucas doesn’t know how to respect his teachers. It’s because you don’t know how to educate your child. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!” Stacy retorted, her voice echoing through the long corridor.

There was no way Christina would allow her son to be mistreated like that. It could potentially cause psychological harm that would affect him for a lifetime.

Anger filled Christina’s eyes as she took a step closer. “We will never apologize. You, however, should apologize to my son right now because you accused him without understanding the situation fully. If not, I will lodge a complaint about you by writing a ten-thousand-word letter to the Ministry of Education!”

“Who do you think you are to complain about me?” Stacy immediately retorted and attempted to overpower Christina. “Both of you are expelled. There’s no need for you to come to class tomorrow!”

Christina couldn’t care less about the kindergarten from the start. Glaring at Stacy, she said, “Lucas and Camila are not expelled by you. We’re leaving on our own. I’m not interested in letting my kids study in such a place!”

The color drained from Stacy’s face. “Leave… now!”

Christina carried Lucas in her arms. A second ago, her anger was still visible, but her expression. immediately softened when she faced Lucas’ innocent face. “It’s okay, Lucas. Mommy believes in you.”

Lucas and Camila wrapped their arms around Christina’s shoulders. “The teachers here bullied Lucas. I don’t like them. Let’s leave quickly, Mommy,” Camila said aggrievedly.

The three of them left the kindergarten. Still furious, Christina exploded the moment she saw Nathaniel when they reached Scenic Garden Manor.

“Into the study, now.”

Nathaniel, who had just returned home from work, had no idea why Christina was looking at him like the enemy.

He followed her into the study. As soon as the door closed, the facade of amiability on Christina’s face immediately fell apart.

“I will find a new kindergarten for the kids tomorrow,” Christina stated, her firm tone an indication that it was an announcement rather than a discussion. Her tone was so icy that it could freeze the air.

Nathaniel took out his phone and messaged Sebastian to ask him to find out what had happened.

“Why? We’ve already paid the fees.”

Christina turned around and looked daggers at him. “You can take their place, then. I’m sure the kindergarten will be perfect for someone with such a low emotional intelligence like you,” she mocked.

To think that he arranged our son with his illegitimate son in the same kindergarten. Is it because it’s more convenient for him to pick them up?

“Can we talk about this properly?” Nathaniel noticed that her temper had worsened over the years. Even her retorts had become more ruthless than before.

At the thought of Lucas being mistreated at the kindergarten that day, Christina felt even angrier. She regretted listening to Nathaniel and sending their kids to that kindergarten. Otherwise, the incident that day wouldn’t have happened.

Nathaniel walked over and tapped her slender shoulder with his fingertips gently. “Okay, we can find. another kindergarten if you don’t want the kids to attend this.”

Repulsed, she flung his hand away. “Get away from me. You said I’m the master of this house if I stay here, and you can’t stay overnight without my permission. I’m asking you to leave now. Otherwise, I’m leaving with the kids.”

Nathaniel’s expression darkened instantly, and he said nothing.

Lucas and Camila were leaning against the door and listening to their parents’ argument. They couldn’t help but feel dejected.

“What do we do now, Lucas? Daddy and Mommy are fighting.” Camila’s eyes were teary.

Lucas didn’t know what to do either. He had always considered himself clever, but now he couldn’t think of a brilliant plan to stop them from arguing.

A man should always be courteous to a lady. Daddy really doesn’t know how to appease Mommy. His emotional intelligence is indeed worrying…

Suddenly, Camila’s eyes lit up. Raising her index finger in excitement, she exclaimed, “I know what to do! We can ask God for help!”

Mr. Patel said that God is capable of anything and can fulfill people’s wishes. If we go to pray to God, maybe Daddy and Mommy will stop fighting.

Lucas strongly agreed with Camila’s suggestion. However, he became worried again in the next instant. “Daddy and Mommy will never agree to let us go and pray. What do we do, then?”

“We can go secretly without Mommy and Daddy finding out!” Camila whispered, recalling a few occasions. when she and Lucas had secretly eaten cookies without Christina noticing despite Christina saying that they couldn’t have cookies at night.

“Okay. Let’s do it, then.”

That night, Lucas and Camila went to bed early. After tucking them in, Christina returned to her bedroom.

As she lay on the bed, her gaze drifted toward the moon outside the window. The soft silver glow from the moon reflected her current state of mind.

Just like when she thought she would be agitated to see Nathaniel again and yell at him for keeping her under house arrest, the pain had healed before she even realized it.

However, although the scars appeared to be healed on the surface, the damage was already done. Emotions would stili creep up on her in the middle of the night every now and then.

Back in the children’s room, Lucas was sleeping soundly when he was woken up by an alarm clock that he had deliberately set before going to sleep.

Lucas had been thinking about going to pray the whole night. He immediately got up and woke up Camila, who was sleeping beside him. “Wake up, Camila. It’s time to go,

Camila opened her eyes and stared at Lucas blankly because she wasn’t fully awake yet.

“Why not you stay at home, Camila? I can go and pray by myself.” Lucas suggested with concern.

As soon as Camila heard the word “pray,” she became alert. “No. I have to go too! This is such an important thing!”

She quickly got out of the comfortable bed and changed into a casual outfit. Before leaving, she didn’t forget to put her favorite hairpin on.

Lucas carried a small backpack and took out his watch. After activating the map function on it, he keyed in the address of the church.

Soon enough, the watch displayed the distance to their destination and the available modes of transportation.

After checking the emergency supplies in his bag, Lucas confirmed with Camila again, “We can only walk there. Are you sure you will be okay, Camila?”

Camila put on a hat and made an “okay” gesture to Lucas. “When have you become so talkative, Lucas? Hurry up, let’s go.”

Since they had been living in Scenic Garden Manor for quite some time, they were already familiar with the routes there.

No one noticed two small figures sneaking out of the children’s room as the butlers and housekeepers in Scenic Garden Manor were fast asleep in the middle of the night.

Lucas held Camila’s hand and quietly slipped out through a small gate,

Since Scenic Garden Manor was located in a wealthy district, it would take at least half an hour to reach the nearest bus stop.

However, the idea of such a long distance didn’t stop Lucas and Camila, who were fearless. Filled with excitement, they began to embark on their first adventure which started with running away from home.