Ch. 551..560

Chapter 551 Come Prepared

Nathaniel pulled her into his arms comfortingly, “Nothing will happen to me. The police. summoned me to the precinct to talk about Madison, that’s all. By this point, her case is difficult to make sense of. The cops are lacking in clues and evidence. Somebody has written an article about her death and posted it online, so the cops are under a lot of pressure. They would not give up any leads they have easily.”

Christina only knew that Madison was incurably insane and that her family had sent her to a psychiatric institution for treatment. She was unaware that Nathaniel had secretly tortured Madison.

Nathaniel was cautious not to leave any trace behind. The torment Madison endured in the psychiatric hospital was standard procedure for treatment for all patients; the severity of the treatment depended on the state of her mental health.

Even if somebody were to leak the secret, it would not be traced back to Nathaniel.

As a result, it was stupid of Manuel to use Madison’s condition as leverage.

Christina was glum. “Everybody on the internet is suspecting you. As Madison had been your assistant for years, and she and I had an altercation, you look like the biggest suspect to an outsider, but you have gotten involved for me. You shouldn’t have to bear the condemnation and the blame on my behalf.”

Nathaniel stroked her back and smiled. “I am your husband. Of course, I will protect you. I don’t care what other people think as long as you trust me.”

Christina choked back her tears. “I’m sorry, Nathaniel.”

Ever since she got pregnant, Christina had been emotionally unstable and easily assumed the Worst.

Though Nathaniel was fending off a headache dealing with that, he felt sorry for her. “It isn’t your fault. You don’t have to apologize.” He sighed. “Didn’t you promise me not to look at the gossip online? You

lied to me.”

Christina did keep her word, but the rumors were so contagious that everybody at the hospital was talking about it, which was how she came to hear of it.

“I didn’t lie.” Christina pouted. “I heard it from someone.”

“I have found the person fanning the flames. In three days, this fiasco will be over. Just wait and see.” Nathaniel did not tell Christina that the Taggart family had abducted Sebastian.

Christina did not doubt Nathaniel for a moment. Upon obtaining his guarantee, she felt much more at ease.

That night was the best sleep she had had in a while.

Nathaniel’s name remained trending online for three whole days, after which the Taggart family held a wake for Madison as planned.

Sebastian was released that day. They dragged him out to stand before Madison’s memorial portrait to express his remorse.

Nathaniel had cost Maggie dearly. She was livid at Sebastian’s inaction and betrayal.

Upon finding out that Manuel had kidnapped him to teach him a lesson when she was sent back to the Taggart residence, she pretended not to know and gave him full rein.

Punishing Sebastian is indirectly giving Nathaniel a slap to the face.

The guests who had come to pay their respects were curious about Sebastian kneeling before the deceased, but they did not dare ask about it.

Everybody knew about the altercation between the Taggart family and the Hadley family.

Sebastian knelt from morning until the afternoon and was denied the opportunity to rest. Furthermore, Manuel deprived him of food and had him beaten during the period of his incarceration.

Nevertheless, his back remained tall and proud, though his coarse features were drained of color.

Manuel stood beside him. “Aren’t you Nathaniel’s loyal hound?” he jeered. “He killed Madison and refused to own up, so you, as his lackey, will take his place and beg for forgiveness. It’s part of your job and your honor too. This opportunity isn’t given to just anybody, you know.”

Impassively, Sebastian shot a sideways glance at Manuel, which looked more like a leer.

Manuel saw that Sebastian was not taking him seriously. The years during which Sebastian had served Nathaniel were glorious.

Manuel left to entertain the guests, but all of them were keen to discuss Sebastian. He, as Maggie’s beloved grandson, became of little interest.

Manuel was so angry that his chest throbbed painfully. Gritting his teeth, he was about to swing a fist at Sebastian when a lackey tumbled in and fell flat on his face before them.

“Bad news, Mr. Manuel! Nathaniel brought a large group of people over. They’re almost here. Nobody can stop them! We’d better run!”

As soon as the warning was uttered, Nathaniel’s figure appeared in the distance.

“This is the Taggart residence and my turf. What am I afraid of? Take Sebastian and keep. him hidden.”

The lackey was about to drag Sebastian away when a dozen broad-shouldered and round- bellied bodyguards dashed in and surrounded the trio.

Tactfully, Maggie dispersed the crowd gathered at the Taggart residence.

She did not wish to suffer the indignity of having her family’s dirty laundry aired.

Sebastian looked up at Nathaniel at once. His eyes shone.

Nathaniel did not spare Sebastian a glance. Instead, his icy glare fell onto Manuel.

As if aware that a venomous snake had noticed him, Manuel felt goosebumps erupting all over his skin. “How dare you show up here, Nathaniel? You’ve got some big balls. Do you not respect us Taggarts at all?”

“Shut your mouth, Manuel!” Maggie commanded as she was wheeled into the hall.

In his youthful exuberance, Manuel is no match for Nathaniel. It is plain that he feared nothing for coming to the Taggart residence to cause trouble today, of all days. Furthermore, he came prepared.

Manuel fell into sullen silence upon being reprimanded, not daring to utter another word.

Maggie turned to Nathaniel. “If you’re here to pay your respects to Madison, Mr. Hadley, I welcome you with open arms. But, if you have another purpose in mind, I must ask you to leave immediately. People are watching us. Surely you would not want the Hadley family to be ridiculed.”

Nathaniel chuckled. His gaze was filled with arrogant disdain. In fact, more than half of the paparazzi outside had been there at his request.

“The Hadley family’s reputation has nothing to do with anybody else. Thank you for your concern, Old Mrs. Taggart,” Nathaniel said quietly. “I’m here today for my assistant. He has been missing for several days, and I have been having his disappearance investigated. Coincidentally, my investigation led us here, to you, the Taggart family.”

Maggie glanced at Sebastian. Only then did she notice he had undergone no trivial abuse. His handsome face was no longer identifiable as before. The wounds on his body, old and new, melded into an indiscernible, bloody mosaic. They looked harrowing.

She did not expect Manuel to be so heavy-handed that he had disfigured their captive to such an extent.

Nathaniel will not forgive him easily.

Maggie said sternly, “There must be some misunderstanding. Youngsters tend to act rashly without consideration of consequences and would inadvertently offend somebody. It happens all the time. I’ve been so occupied with Madison’s funeral that I hadn’t noticed what my family members have been up to.”

Maggie’s attempt to bail Manuel out of trouble with mere words was impossible.

She turned her gaze to Sebastian. “Why don’t you explain things to Mr. Hadley, Sebastian? Tell him where you were over the past few days. Don’t put Mr. Hadley and the Taggart family in a bad spot.”

Chapter 552 Comeback

The threat in Maggie’s voice was evident, but she had overlooked the most important point.

Though Sebastian was a Taggart, he was not raised by them, and he had gotten everything he had through his own means. After his graduation, he began working for Nathaniel. To the Taggart family, Sebastian was insignificant.

Sebastian had advised Madison against her reckless endeavors out of courtesy, yet she was undeterred. In fact, she went so far overboard that she dragged her family down with her.

In any case, Sebastian did not owe the Taggart family a thing. Even if he did, he had cleared. his debts a long time ago.

The Taggart family not only knew about Manuel torturing him, but they also condoned it.

I do not deign to align myself with such a selfish family.

Sebastian understood Nathaniel. Despite his cold exterior, he values me enough, or he wouldn’t have entrusted me with the mission of setting Manuel up so he could come to the Taggart residence to cause trouble under the guise of a rescue mission.

Sebastian turned his head upward to display the scars on his cheek beneath the bright lights. His narrow eyes glinted coldly.

“You are old, Old Mrs. Taggart, but not senile. You must know that Manuel kidnapped me firstly as leverage to get you back, as he coveted the assets under your name. Before he manages to get them, he could not allow anything to happen to you.”

Realizing that his carefully veiled plot was about to be exposed, Manuel was livid. “Watch your mouth, Sebastian!”

“Silence, Manuel!” Maggie snapped. “Let him finish.”

Manuel clenched his fists. Like a venomous snake himself, he fixed his glare upon Sebastian.

Sebastian smirked. “Secondly, Manuel intended to use me to strongarm Mr. Hadley. Failing to prove himself to lead the Taggart family, he intends to take a shortcut and blackmail Mr. Hadley for some money to show for his abilities.”

Maggie glanced coldly at Manuel. Her eyes seemed to pierce through him and expose his innermost secrets in the merciless spotlight.

Manuel grew nervous. “Don’t believe a word they say, Grandma.”

Maggie clutched her rosary beads. She was so impassive that nobody could tell what she was thinking.

Nathaniel thought it was an opportune moment to speak. “If you would like to see the evidence, Old Mrs. Taggart, it can be arranged.”

As soon as he spoke, the butler of the Taggart family entered hurriedly and stopped before Maggie to whisper something in her ear.

Maggie turned pale. “What did you say?”

The butler was grave. He cast a mysterious glance at Manuel before whispering, “It’s true. They’re here and are waiting outside.”

Manuel became increasingly uneasy.

Maggie steered her wheelchair and stopped before Manuel, then beat him with her cane. “You little sh*t! How did the Taggart family produce such a degenerate like you?”

Manuel was stunned by the blows raining down upon him, but he could not avoid them. Instead, he stood there resolutely. “What happened, Grandma?” he cried indignantly. “Why are you hitting me?”

At that moment, a group of uniformed police officers entered. The one in the lead swept at glance around before speaking cordially.

“I’m sorry to be turning up under such circumstances, Old Mrs. Taggart, but I’m afraid it cannot wait,” he announced briskly. “We have been investigating an international financial. crime of late, and your grandson, Manuel Taggart, is one of the people involved. Also, he ist implicated in a kidnapping case, of which evidence is right here before us. We must do our duty and bring him back with us to aid in our investigation.”

Manuel was aghast. The color drained from his face. “Impossible. You must have been mistaken!”

“Without evidence,” the man rumbled, “we would not come. Please cooperate, Mr. Taggart.”

Manuel hid behind Maggie and fell to his knees. “I didn’t do it, Grandma,” he begged. “You have to help me.”

Maggie had raised Manuel. Despite his questionable character, she knew he would not dare commit a crime.

Maggie’s heart ached, but she maintained her scowl. “You mentioned something about an international financial crime my grandson is involved in. The Taggart family has a vast portfolio. You should be more specific if you want your accusations to sound more believable.”

“It is an investment for a medical project in Koandria; I am not at liberty to discuss any more than that. He himself knows whether or not he is involved,” the captain said before turning to his men. “Take him away.”

“How is that possible? Manuel widened his eyes in disbelief. He was about to make a run for it when two officers pinned him to the ground and cuffed him. “There must be a misunderstanding. That’s a large project. Nathaniel is involved too! Why are you only apprehending me and not him?”

“We are acting based on available evidence,” the captain said coldly without elaborating further.

As if coming to a realization, Manuel turned his bloodshot eyes onto Nathaniel. “It’s you! You set me up. F*ck you, you vicious b*stard!”

Amidst the commotion. the lights outside flickered and soon disappeared.

The image of Manuel being escorted away in handcuffs took the internet by storm.

Maggie slumped, defeated, in her wheelchair. “What has the Taggart family come to?” she croaked.

“Seeing as matters are resolved here. I should be leaving with my man. Take care, Old Mrs. Taggart. Turning to Sebastian, Nathaniel added. “Can you walk?”

“Yeah.” Gritting his teeth, Sebastian rose to his feet and hobbled behind Nathaniel. Throughout it all, Nathaniel did not take a single glance behind him.

He sent Sebastian to the hospital and accompanied him through the latter’s consultation. Though he had other employees to delegate the task to, Nathaniel remained by his side the entire time until Sebastian entered his ward.

“Get well soon. I’m putting you on paid leave.” Nathaniel said curtly as he stood by the bed.

“Thank you, Mr. Hadley. You don’t have to-”

Nathaniel interrupted, “You’ve misunderstood. Lucas is in the ward next door. I’m just on my way there.”

Sebastian froze before smiling knowingly. “Indeed, I have misunderstood. How is Mr. Lucas? Is it serious?”

“It’s a case of heavy metal poisoning.” Nathaniel explained. “By design, it seems. We’re still trying to figure out who did it. He’ll be discharged in a few days. Also, I’ll have people look after you seeing as you’ve hurt your leg to move about freely.”

“That’s not necessary. I can manage on my own.”

Despite the protests, nobody could dissuade Nathaniel once he made up his mind.

Thus, he arranged for an experienced servant from the Hadley residence to attend to Sebastian’s daily needs.

When Nathaniel returned to Scenic Garden Manor after dealing with Sebastian, he found Christina sitting on the couch in the living room, savoring the broadcast of the Taggart family’s scandal.

Sensing his approach, Christina reached out and pulled him down next to her.

“Tell me everything, Nathaniel. I understood the international financial crime Manuel is involved in, but what about the kidnapping charges? Who did he abduct?”

Chapter 553 That Means You Like Me

When Nathaniel saw the edge of her dress pulled up to her calf, he took off his suit jacket to cover her legs.

Christina looked at him in confusion.

Nathaniel gently said, “You’re pregnant, so don’t catch a cold. Even though the living room is constantly kept warm, it won’t do us any harm to stay on the safe side. Be good, okay? I’ll slowly tell you about it.”

Christina buried herself in his arms and urged, “Hurry up, Nathaniel!”

Holding her hands, he slowly rubbed them and said, “He kidnapped Sebastian.”

“What?” Christina gasped. “When was this? Why didn’t I hear anything about this?”

As Nathaniel stared at Christina’s resentful gaze, he patiently explained what happened.

By the end of it, Christina was gritting her teeth in fury. “None of the Taggart family are good people!”

Realizing who she had just included, she quickly added, “Except Sebastian. They can’t compare to him.”

Nathaniel was protective and biased toward his people, and Christina’s protectiveness was even more intense than his.

Dotingly, Nathaniel pinched her earlobes and said, “The crimes of these two cases are more than enough to make Manuel and the Taggart family pay a painful price for what they’ve done.”

There were some things Christina could not wrap her mind around, however. “I remember Hadley Corporation getting the chance to invest in Koandria’s medical project, so how did you find out that there was something wrong with the project?”

“It’s not hard to look into this, honestly. The person in charge of the medical project has a criminal record. Even though he had spent money to change his personal details, the more perfect it seems, the more suspicious it’ll be. It’s the same concept for the contract of the project. High risk means high return, but according to the recent market analysis, the market isn’t doing so well. It’s rare for investment returns in medical projects to be more than sixty percent. The few successful exceptions won’t be enough to stop me from being suspicious about it. While it’s true that Hadley Corporation has gotten the chance to invest in the project, they had not invested much into it. The loss of their funds is only a cover. Hadley Corporation is just a victim to the police, not the main investors. In contrast, Manuel had changed the Taggart family’s assets into cash and signed an investment with Koandria’s conglomerates to become an official investor. To establish his reputation and show off his capabilities, Manuel convinced a few of his friends to join him, and they had signed on with those conglomerates.”

Hearing that, Christina finally understood what happened. As she hooked her arms around Nathaniel’s neck, she chuckled. “You set up Manuel to avenge Sebastian, didn’t you?”

Nathaniel did not deny it. “Sebastian is one of my men, and his incident is partially my fault. He’s good at his work. Moreover, it’s not easy to replace him with someone else and train them until they can work well with me. Therefore, I might as well resolve the issue and have him return to work for me.”

Christina then said, “I’ve asked the kitchen staff to make some chicken soup. I’ll bring some for Sebastian when I visit him later,” Christina said earnestly.

“As you wish. I have work, so I won’t be able to keep you company for now. Tell me when you’re about to leave for the hospital so I can come along with you.” With Sebastian absent, Nathaniel had more work to do, for he could not be at ease if he were to leave the essential work to the others.

“Sure. I’ll go and take a look at the kitchen to see if they’re done with the soup.” With that said. Christina climbed out of his arms and headed to the kitchen.

Nathaniel returned to the study to continue working.

In the afternoon, Christina and Nathaniel went to the hospital together.

When they opened the door to Sebastian’s ward, Christina greeted Victoria.

“Christina, are you here to visit Oldster too?” Victoria seemed to be ill at ease when she saw Christina and Nathaniel. In fact, she even seemed like she was trying to cover up something. “I was visiting a friend in the hospital when I heard that Oldster’s injured and in the hospital too, so I came over to take a look at him.”

Not only was there a fancy fruit basket on the bedside table, but there was also a bouquet of flowers too. It was clear from those two items’ packaging that the person who brought them had made a careful selection of what to bring.

Christina knew what was going on, but she made no comments about it. As she shoved the thermal food jar into Victoria’s arms, she said with a half-smile, “I’ve brought chicken soup for Mr. Taggart. Mr. Taggart isn’t too mobile at the moment, so please pour out the soup for him. Lucas needs someone to keep him company, so Nathaniel and I won’t disturb your alone time any longer.”

The thermal food jar in Victoria’s hands abruptly felt like a hot potato she wanted to throw away. She was at a loss, and she said, “Christina, you’ve misunderstood the situation. I actually…”

That Means You Like Me

Christina gave Sebastian a long look before nudging Victoria. “We’re all adults, and we can love whoever we want to. Don’t be shy and just court him if you like him. Otherwise, you’ll regret it in the future. Do your best. I have faith in you.”

Nathaniel quietly glanced at Sebastian and Victoria.

After that, Christina towed Nathaniel away, never forgetting to close the door behind her.

Sebastian was not expecting Christina to be so straightforward. Clearing his throat to hide his embarrassment, he said, “Mrs. Hadley likes to joke, so don’t take her words to heart. I don’t bear those thoughts toward you.”

Victoria was shy at the start, but when she heard Sebastian’s words, she turned furious. “Sebastian, do you think I’m not worthy of you?”

Sebastian hastily explained, “That’s not what I meant!”

Victoria aggressively questioned, “So you mean that you like me?”

Sebastian had experienced many kinds of scenes and many types of difficult women, but he still could not hold his ground against Victoria’s questioning.

“I don’t hate you, but I don’t like in that you way either.”

“If you don’t hate me, that means you like me.” Victoria pouted. In a manner akin to a prideful demon, she uttered, “Oldster, you’re not at all an honest man!”

Sebastian let out a surprised “huh” and forgot what he wanted to say next.

Victoria’s mood changed quicker than she could blink. Chuckling, she poured out the chicken soup to cool it as she muttered, “But what can I do? I like smooth talkers. At the very least, they know what romance is.”

Sebastian lowered his gaze and mumbled, “I don’t understand romance.”

Victoria shot him a glare. “I don’t need your opinion; I just need mine.”

As she shoved the bowl into his hands, she huffed and said, “Drink it while it’s hot. I had no one to shop with me while you were gone.”

A wry smile grew on Sebastian’s lips, but somehow, he felt happy. While he was mulling over the emotion, he did not move to drink the soup.

“Why aren’t you drinking it? Oh, I’ve forgotten about how you aren’t that mobile at the moment.” Before Sebastian could react to that, Victoria took the bowl from him and brought the spoon to his lips. “Aren’t you lucky? This is my first time serving someone, so don’t you make any comments about it, or else you’re on your own.”

That Means You Like Me

A joyous look flashed past Sebastian’s eyes. “Thank you, Ms. Lesley.”

Victoria huffed and began feeding Sebastian patiently.

Even though the chicken soup was salty, Sebastian felt a tinge of sweetness seeping into his heart.

While Victoria was busy feeding him, she was also busy talking to him.

“How can we just let Manuel go? Why don’t you say some nice things to me? If I’m happy, I’ll get someone to teach that man a lesson for you.”

Chapter 554 Spilling The Beans

It would be a piece of cake for Victoria to deal with the waning Taggart family with her family background.

Sebastian and Victoria had only met a few times, and they were not even friends yet. It was merely a coincidence that she would visit him at the hospital. Sebastian was a man who was easily satisfied, so he never tried to strive for things he knew he should not have.

With a weak smile, he said, “Ms. Lesley, thank you for your kind intentions, but Manuel has received the punishment he deserves, and Mr. Hadley has stood up for me. I don’t wish to trouble anyone else.”

A wave of frustration swelled in Victoria’s chest when she heard how polite and distant he was.

Bam!

She roughly placed the bowl on the bedside table and hissed. “So I’m just ‘someone else’ to you. I thought we were at least friends after how long we knew each other, but it looks like I was making the wrong assumptions. I have other things to do, so goodbye.”

At that, Victoria stormed out of the room with her bag, slamming the door behind her.

Sebastian stared at the closed door in confusion.

I was speaking the truth, so why did she suddenly get so mad?

When Sebastian mulled over his conversation with Victoria, a thought popped into his head.

He finally realized why Victoria was so livid. It was not that Victoria had a bad temper but that he was too slow to realize what he had said.

Sebastian bitterly laughed before wearily leaning back against the headboard. He closed his eyes.

He desperately wished that he was wrong. He was only Nathaniel’s assistant, and it was clear that he was no match for Victoria in terms of status. Although he was not close to the Taggart family, he could never erase the fact that he was one of the Taggarts.

The terrible reputation of the Taggart family was going to be a burden he had to bear until the end of his life.

With that thought in mind. Sebarrian bec miser import

Right then eft clicking end of door opening rang out and Sebastian opened his eyes to look treurd it. It won then be ease Victoria with a frown on her face and flack of hot water in her hande chuffling inward

Sebastion asked. Didn’t you Didn’t you leave

As Victoria put the flack by the bedside table she huffed and explained. Did you think i wanted to come back? It’s raining outside, but neither did I bring an umbrella nor drive here Are you asking me to run in the rain? My clothes are expensive, and this is my first time wearing them. I can’t bear to ruin them”

The entire time. Sebastian kept his eyes on her as if he could not stop drinking at the sight of her

Feeling uneasy from his stare, Victoria turned to fill a glass of hot water before putting it on the table

“I saw families of patients with flasks in their hands when I walked past the pantry earlier. They said that hot water is good for your health, so I got a flask of that for you. I even ended up ruming my clothes while I was doing that”

As she spoke, she showed Sebastian the hooked edge of her shirt. She then demanded, “1 ruined my shirt because of you, so once you’ve recovered, you ll have to compensate me and continue shopping with me. You have no right to reject ine I’ll take this as extra compensation!

Sebastian’s eyes were filled with mirth as he consoled, “Sure. I’ll keep you company with anything you want to do.”

His bright eyes captivated Victoria and it felt as if a warm blanket had wrapped around her heart. A hint of crimson crept to the ups of her cars, and she averted her gaze before huffi “Im glad you’re smart enough to answer that You’re forgiven. I guess I’ll let you be my friend

The delight in his eyes grew more visible, and he found himself relaxing Its my honor to be your friend. Ms Lesley Thank you for giving me a chance to turn over a new leat

Victoria’s ears became hotter and hotter Passing the glass of water to Sebastian, she then said. “Drink up and rest quickly. Once the rain stops. I’ll go back.”

Instead of taking the glass from Victoria Sebastian craned his neck to drink from the glass while she continued holding it

Victoria did not seem fazed by that.

For the following days, Christina often appeared in Lucas’ and Sebastian’s wards.

Victoria was smarter. She often came to visit Sebastian while Christina was away from the hospital, so the two women did not bump into each other for the next few days.

Sebastian could keep a secret, so Christina did not know about the matter. However, that could not be said the same about Lucas.

When Lucas could get down from the bed to move around and when he heard that Sebastian’s ward was beside his, he started visiting Sebastian every few days to stave off his boredom.

Hence, Lucas and Victoria eventually encountered each other.

Victoria tried to bribe Lucas to make her visits a secret, and Lucas agreed to it, but on the day of his discharge, he accidentally spilled the beans when Christina and Nathaniel were around.

When Christina and Nathaniel brought Lucas to bid Sebastian goodbye, Lucas scanned his surroundings and curiously asked, “Mr. Taggart, has Ms. Lesley not visited you today? I’d like to have some candies.”

It was too late by the time Sebastian thought about covering Lucas’ mouth. Christina turned to give him a long look, and Sebastian quickly cleared his throat. “Mr. Lucas, Ms. Lesley has work to be busy with. She can’t possibly come to the hospital every day, but if you want some candies, I can get them for you soon.”

Lucas blinked and turned to look at Nathaniel and Christina. “Mommy, Daddy, I’m not lying. Ms. Lesley comes to the hospital every day to visit Mr. Taggart. I remember that well. She even comes thrice a day sometimes!”

Sticking out three fingers, he emphasized. “I’m serious! It’s bad to lie, so I don’t do that.”

Sebastian wished that he had somewhere to hide at that moment, for the way Christina was looking at him was giving him the heebie-jeebies.

“Oh my, no wonder Victoria has been telling me that she’s busy when I try to meet with her. So she’s busy coming to the hospital to take care of you, Mr. Taggart. I’m surprised that girl knows how to take care of others now. That’s good. If my master finds out that she has changed so drastically, she would be overjoyed,” Christina teased.

On the other hand, Nathaniel was not that perturbed by Sebastian’s love life, but he felt that he should chime in as well. “Sebastian, you still have a while before your holiday ends, so you should have more meaningful things to do. Being in a relationship is a good choice to relax.”

Sebastian had never been as speechless as at that moment. “Mr. Hadley, Mrs. Hadley, Ms.

He then pursed his lips before saying, “Ms. Lesley is a serious, meticulous, and empathetic. girl.”

Sebastian was surprised by how he had blurted out what was in his mind to Christina and Nathaniel.

In response, Christina hummed in amusement. “You’re quick to defend her now.”

Sebastian lowered his gaze and nervously gripped his blanket.

Dropping the smile, Christina then solemnly patted Sebastian’s shoulder and said, “Victoria’s temper is due to how others spoiled her, but she doesn’t have a bad nature. Mr. Taggart, you’re a good man too. I think the two of you will make a good couple. You have my blessings.”

Nathaniel’s gaze landed on the hand Christina had on Sebastian’s shoulder. As he wrapped his arm around Christina’s waist, he grabbed that hand.

“Mom, Dad, and Camila are at home waiting to see Lucas. Sebastian needs his rest, too, so let’s head back.”

Chapter 555 Single People Have Their Dreams Too

Christina came to her senses abruptly. “I almost forgot in my excitement. Mr. Taggart, rest well. Nathaniel, Lucas, and I will go back first. We’ll come to see you another day.”

Sebastian felt relieved. The atmosphere in the hospital room was too awkward, and for the first time, he wished Christina and Nathaniel would leave quickly. “Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Hadley, for your concern.”

Lucas wanted to say something more, but Christina and Nathaniel took him away.

The three of them got into the car before Christina grabbed Nathaniel’s hand. Leaning closer, she asked, “Nathaniel, were you jealous just now?”

Nathaniel replied seriously, “No, why do you ask?”

Christina smiled and leaned into Nathaniel’s embrace, whispering, “You’re lying. You were holding my hand so hard in the hospital room that it hurt. There’s nothing between Mr. Taggart and me. You’re just too sensitive. Your jealousy will be the death of you.”

Nathaniel’s possessiveness and dominating behavior were only directed toward Christina. He didn’t like it when she got too close to other men.

Nathaniel lifted her hand and carefully inspected each finger, asking, “Where did it hurt?”

Christina playfully shook her head. “I lied earlier. You can’t punish me. We’re even now.”

Nathaniel smiled indulgently made a soft sound of agreement.

Lucas looked at his parents, who were whispering to each other. He caught a few wo squeezed his chubby body between them. Then, he climbed to the spot beside Natha Curiously, he asked, “What does it mean to be jealous?”

Christina and Nathaniel exchanged a glance, then Christina pinched Lucas’ nose, saying, “That’s an adult topic. Children shouldn’t be curious about it.”

“Oh.” Lucas nodded as if he understood and took out some candy from his pocket before handing it to Nathaniel. “Daddy, you can have my candy. Don’t be jealous. I think jealousy won’t taste as good as candy.”

Nathaniel was visibly taken aback for a moment. Then, he scooped Lucas into his arms with a pleased smile tugging at his lips. “Clever little rascal, where did you learn these tricks to please people?”

He put the candy away by placing it in his suit pocket.

Lucas giggled mischievously and looked up at Nathaniel with innocent eyes. “Whenever Mr. Taggart upsets Ms. Lesley, he gives her candy to make her happy. I even saw them kissing.”

Children often spoke their minds without reservations. Christina had known there was something between Sebastian and Victoria, but she didn’t expect things to progress so quickly.

Nathaniel furrowed his brows slightly. “Lucas, you’re still a child. You mustn’t imitate them. Some things are only meant for when you grow up. Do understand?”

Lucas nodded again. “I understand, Daddy.”

Nathaniel ruffled his son’s hair in response.

Soon, the car arrived at the Hadley residence. After the door opened, Lucas ran toward the mansion like an unleashed wild horse. “Grandpa, Grandma, Camila, I’m back!”

Christina and Nathaniel followed behind while exchanging a helpless smile.

“Nathaniel, I want to prepare a wedding gift for Mr. Taggart and Victoria. What do you think?” Christina had a feeling that with the way things were progressing, Sebastian and Victoria’s wedding would be soon.

“You decide. I don’t have anything in mind.” Even if Christina didn’t mention it, Nathaniel would reward Sebastian when the time came.

Christina gently grasped Nathaniel’s arm and said with excitement, “I haven’t got a either. I’ll let you know when I figure it out.”

“Okay.” Nathaniel nodded.

The scandal of the Taggart family stayed on the online trending list for several days, but Manuel’s arrest was merely the catalyst for the beginning of the Taggart family’s downfall.

After what happened to Manuel, numerous charges were brought against the Taggart family, and their company’s market value plummeted within a few days. Shareholders withdrew their investments to save themselves, and the once-flattered Taggart family instantly became an object of ridicule.

With Nathaniel’s involvement, no one dared to lend a helping hand to the Taggart family.

Like a dying flower, the Taggart family wilted overnight and quickly disappeared from the public eye.

Maggie fell ill and became bedridden, and her coveted fortune quickly became the target of others.

Once Nathaniel had achieved the desired effect, he did not completely destroy the Taggart family.

He handed over the final decision-making to Sebastian and turned a blind eye to any private contact between the Taggart family members and Sebastian.

Sebastian had his principles and limits. He didn’t accept the Taggart family’s attempts to win him over and even rejected the multi-million inheritance offered by Maggie.

This was equivalent to proving to everyone that he and the Taggart family were no longer associated.

The farce with the Taggart family finally came to a quiet end. Christina and Nathaniel didn’t give up on investigating the culprit behind Lucas’ poisoning. The investigation was progressing steadily but slowly.

“I’ll return home after the fashion show. Rayne will be with me all the time. You don’t have to come to pick me up, either. Stay at home and spend more time with Lucas and Camila. They’ve been insisting on seeing you when said in a gentle tone over the phone as s” were away on your business trip,” Christina sat in the car heading to the venue.

Nathaniel’s warm and magnetic voice echoed in her ear. “Then dress warmly. The evening temperature in the suburbs can be quite low. Don’t catch a cold.”

Christina looked up and saw Rayne signaling her while holding a promotional booklet. She quickly said, “I have something to attend to, so I won’t chat with you for now. See you tonight.”

After ending the call, Christina took the promotional booklet from Rayne.

“Mr. Hadley must be worried that you’ll fall for some handsome man at the fashion show and run away with him. Otherwise, why would he be so clingy?” Rayne teased.

“Well, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Being single, you wouldn’t understand. I advise. you to find a boyfriend and experience romance instead of burying yourself in work every day,” Christina playfully retorted.

“Hey, being single is fine too. Single people also have human rights and dreams they want to pursue. Dealing with work-related matters and John are enough to annoy me. I don’t want to add more trouble

to my life,” Rayne replied in a dismissive tone.

At the mention of John, Christina became curious. “After working together with John for so long, haven’t you two developed any mutual understanding during work?”

Rayne wore a helpless expression as she leaned weakly against the chair. “Christina, do you think John and I are destined to clash in life? Every time we meet, it’s like we’re enemies. We always try to outdo each other.”

Christina skimmed through the fashion show promotional booklet absentmindedly and said, “Fighting and teasing each other could be your unique way of flirting and getting along.”

Rayne looked at Christina in horror with an expression resembling that of seeing a ghost. Goosebumps rose all over her body.

“Christina, don’t joke with me. It’s impossible between me and John. I don’t like him, and he doesn’t like me. How could we be flirting? Ah, let’s not talk about these troublesome things. Let me tell you about the fashion show.”

With lingering fear, Rayne changed the subject.

The fashion show was a runway event for international luxury brands, so Christina’s privately-owned brand wasn’t qualified to participate. However, her brand did gain enough recognition for her to receive an invitation to the show as a renowned designer.

Christina’s gaze finally settled on the guest list, and a meaningful smile appeared on her lips.

 

Chapter 556 Testing The Waters

Arriving at the venue, Christina and Rayne entered the hall together.

The place was filled with guests who were prominent figures from Jadeborough and influential people who had come from all over the world to attend the show.

“I just saw an acquaintance. I’ll go and say hello. You find a place to sit and rest, and I’ll come back to you soon,” Rayne said, getting up and walking toward a foreign woman not far away while holding the skirts of her dress.

They greeted each other and exchanged pleasantries.

Christina didn’t like socializing with people in such a manner. She casually found a secluded. spot to sit down, then grabbed a bite to appease her hunger since the fashion show was still half an hour away. With her pregnancy, she couldn’t afford to go hungry.

Suddenly, Christina caught a glimpse of Anya’s figure weaving through the guests. Anya was heading straight in Christina’s direction.

As Anya approached and finally caught sight of Christina, her breath hitched. Feeling panicked, she quickly turned her head and hurriedly walked away in another direction.

Christina stared thoughtfully at Anya’s fleeing figure. She couldn’t help but feel that the latter was intentionally avoiding her.

Taking out a tissue, she wiped the dessert crumbs from her hands. Then, she got up walked in the direction where Anya had disappeared.

As the fashion show prepared to begin, the guests were busy finding familiar companions to sit with.

Feeling restless, Anya held a glass of red wine and drank it while lost in her thoughts, completely unaware that there was now someone in the empty seat beside her.

Christina observed Anya’s peculiar behavior and greeted, “Hello, Anya. Long time no see.”

Splash!

Startled, Anya lost her grip on her glass and spilled the red wine not only on herself but also Christina.

Ignoring the incident, Christina leaned closer. “Anya, you seem afraid to see me.”

Anya stood up abruptly, glaring at Christina. “What nonsense are you talking about? Why would I be afraid of you? Don’t overestimate yourself!”

Christina tilted her head, taking in Anya’s pale face with a mocking expression. “If you’re not afraid of me, then why did you run away as soon as you saw me? Even now, I’ve only said a few words, yet you appear as if you’ve seen a ghost. Look, you’re all pale with fright.”

Anya’s heart skipped a beat.

Christina continued in a cold tone, “Anya, could it be that you’ve done something wrong by me, so now you’re so afraid that you’re actively trying to avoid me?”

“Are you crazy?” Anya angrily retorted, trying to leave. However, her wrist was forcefully grabbed by Christina.

They were in a relatively remote location, and besides the two of them, there were no other guests at this particular table. Thus, Christina had no need to hold back.

Christina looked at Anya coldly. “I heard that you’ve been visiting Lucas and Camila’s kindergarten frequently of late and that you’ve been giving them gifts. That’s not something I would expect you to

do.”

Anya’s face turned pale. “Do you think I wanted to? Just because you’re not filial and don’t care about family doesn’t mean I’m heartless like you. Grandma and Uncle Timothy miss the children. Is it wrong for me to fulfill my duty to them?”

Her words sounded righteous, and her tone was confident.

“You did those things willingly; no one forced you.” Christina narrowed her eyes. dangerously. “If you care so much about Lucas and Camila, why haven’t I seen you. Lucas in the hospital?”

Anya was speechless at those words.

At that time, she was busy returning to Hallsbay to seek her father’s help and had no time for anything else.

It was only a few days ago when Nigel told her that everything had been taken care of and no one would trace it back to her that she dared to set foot in Jadeborough again.

The Taggart family had already been defeated, and there wouldn’t be much attention given. to Madison’s death. It was precisely because of this realization that Anya became so reckless.

Anya wasn’t afraid of the Taggart family, but she dreaded Christina.

Christina was too clever, and if she suspected anything, Anya’s future would be ruined. Thus, when she saw Christina, she couldn’t control her instincts and desperately wanted to keep a distance from the latter.

Christina’s tone became more intimidating. “Are all those things you said earlier just lies?

When you privately contacted Lucas and Camila, it was never about being nice to them on behalf of Grandma and my father but about harming the children.”

Anya looked at her in shock. “I didn’t harm the children. Don’t falsely accuse me. Your son fell ill and was hospitalized, but what’s that got to do with me? I never harmed him.”

She was at risk of losing control of her emotions as she continued, “Yes, I gave them gifts, but those were just some small toys. They didn’t even spare a glance and casually threw those gifts away. Since they belittle me and waste my good intentions like that, why should I keep trying to please them? During the time your son was hospitalized, I was in Hallsbay. Why would I fly over just to please an ungrateful brat like him? It’s ridiculous!”

Anya only gave them some small toys as gifts?

Christina seized on that point and fabricated a story to deceive Anya. “You knew Lucas has a respiratory illness and can’t tolerate anything with fragrance. Why did you give him a velvet flower?”

Anya’s anger surged. “Can’t you understand human language? I only gave them a few sets of toys like toy excavators and Transformers. They’re just toys that little boys like. I detest fluffy things the most, so there’s no way I would give them velvet flowers. Maybe it was at promotional gift from the toy store, and the store clerk put it in the bag without my knowledge.”

She noticed the curious gazes from the surroundings and quickly left, leaving Christina behind.

Christina furrowed her brows, deep in thought.

Could Lucas’ poisoning be unrelated to Anya? Then does that mean I’m at a dead end?

No, I still have to confront Anya and clarify the situation. Maybe I missed some crucial clues.

Thus, Christina stood up to chase after Anya. As she passed through the backstage area, she accidentally collided with one of the staff members.

Instinctively, Christina covered her belly, shielding it. Fortunately, she fell backward onto a soft couch, which cushioned the impact to some extent. She was unharmed, but the other person fell to the ground instead and ended up with a scraped elbow.

“Sorry. Are you okay?” Christina realized the person was a runway model, and she felt guilty.

“Don’t you have eyes? Watch where you’re walking! I’m injured now, so how am I going to go on stage later? Oh, Christina! It’s you!” Emilia looked up and recognized the culprit. At that moment, her gaze turned venomous, and she gritted her teeth. “What bad luck to run into you everywhere!”

The trace of guilt in Christina’s heart vanished instantly when she heard Emilia’s spiteful words

“Emilia, this place is bustling with people. I bumped into you, that’s true, but it doesn’t mean I did it on purpose. You also have your share of responsibility. Was there a need to resort to abusive words?”

 

Chapter 557 Plot Twist.

Even though Emilia was down-and-out, her arrogance and competitiveness wouldn’t allow her to be treated like a doormat, especially by Christina.

She deliberately dusted her gown and said. “The brand has specially invited me to be their model. Do you know the price of this dress I’m wearing? How expensive it is? This is a keepsake from an exhibition. Money can’t buy this. Now, it’s tainted because of you. It’ll be difficult to explain to the sponsor, so you should be glad to receive only a few words of criticism from me.”

Christina looked the gown up and down and noticed the high-quality silk and the medieval royalty style. Other than the diamond brooch pinned on Emilia’s chest, the gown’s value hadn’t reached the level of exhibition memorabilia.

The most striking part of the dress was the hand-sewn logo.

Coincidentally, Christina was closely acquainted with the designers of the brand.

She raised her brow at Emilia’s words. “Emilia, why haven’t you fixed your habit of lying even after all the lessons you learned?”

Having such an embarrassing side of her exposed in front of the crowd had anger coursing through Emilia. She lost control of her emotions and was unable to stop from raising her voice. “Christina, how dare a wanton b*tch like you say anything about me!”

The commotion attracted the attention of the staff.

Worried the two women would break into a fight, the production assistant immediately. ditched the work at hand and rushed over. “Ms. Emilia, it’s almost your turn to go on the runway. The reporters are right outside. It’ll affect your image if any one of them takes a picture. You can always settle whatever issue you have between the two of you privately.”

Emilia shot a fierce glare at the production assistant, then showed him her injured arm. “This woman hurt me, and the gown is dirtied. How can I walk the runway under such circumstances? Won’t it cast the brand in a negative light?”

The production assistant nearly blacked out when he caught the large black stain on the back. of the dress. His head throbbed in pain from the stress.

All the guests invited to the fashion show tonight might be part of the upper echelon of society, but the production assistant was merely an employee. He would have to bear responsibility if anything happened to the specially invited model.

Assuming Christina was a spineless doormat, he immediately directed his anger at her.

“Miss, shouldn’t you apologize and take responsibility for your recklessness?”

Emilia’s confidence grew when the production assistant took her side. “We should take her to the brand manager and explain the situation. Otherwise, things might get out of hand. After all, this dress is extremely valuable.”

Christina agreed readily, “Sure, Coincidentally, I have something to discuss with the brand manager too. Lead the way.”

Emilia thought Christina would try to come up with an excuse to flee and had already. thought up ways to deflect them, but all of it went down the drain at Christina’s response.

The production assistant demanded, “Follow me.”

Christina and Emilia trailed after the production assistant and arrived at a makeup room backstage.

He had Christina and Emilia wait at the door while he went inside to search for the brand manager.

The production assistant spoke humbly with a young woman who appeared to be of mixed- race descent. She frowned with dissatisfaction and followed the production assistant’s gaze to look at the two women who stood at the door. In the next instant, surprise flashed across the brand manager’s eyes as she raced toward them.

Worried the brand manager would lose her temper and make things worse, the production assistant hurriedly followed her.

The minute she caught the brand manager approaching, Emilia opened her mouth to speak, but the former brushed past her and engulfed Christina in an enthusiastic hug and a cheek kiss.

Her actions stunned Emilia and the production assistant.

After that, Christina and the brand manager conversed in Ferropenian, so Emilia couldn’t join in on the conversation since she couldn’t understand even a lick of it.

Uneasiness rose within her. She was scared Christina would badmouth her to the brand manager.

The brand manager finally gave Emilia her attention. “You’re the specially invited model for our brand?” the brand manager asked with a crease between her brows.

Emilia swiftly shot a glance at Christina before nodding. “Yes, I’m employed for three events. with your brand. This is the first one.”

The brand manager demanded directly, “Take off your gown and hand it over to my assistant. Someone will be coming over to talk to you about terminating your employment contract. You may leave once you’re done changing. Not any model can walk the runway for

Emilia felt as though she had been struck by lightning. Staring dazedly at the brand. manager, she asked, “Shouldn’t you at least give me a reason for terminating my contract?”

The brand manager folded her hands over her chest and said, “I’m the brand manager, so I have the authority to choose and decide who walks the runway. That’s my problem, and you don’t have the right to comment on my decisions.”

Emilia’s face paled at her harsh words. A lingering humiliation welled up within her.

The production assistant didn’t dare to say a word when he noticed the situation wasn’t in his favor.

Christina turned to the brand manager. “I’ll be taking my leave since I still have something to deal with. Pass my greeting to Madam. I’ll visit her when I’m free.”

The brand manager tugged on Christina’s hand longingly. “We finally get to meet, and this is first time being in charge of a fashion show solo. With your vast experience, why don’t. you stay and give me some pointers?”

Christina wanted to stay and talk since it was rare to meet an old friend, but Rayne would freak out if she couldn’t find her. Moreover, she still needed to confront Anya about the whole situation. With so many issues pending, Christina had no choice but to turn down. Andy’s offer.

“I’m sorry, Andy. I still have things to do, so I can’t stay here long. Let’s set up a time for a meal once the fashion show ends.”

“I’ll be leaving Jadeborough right after this event ends. Since you’re busy, I won’t hold you. any longer. Let’s talk on the phone.”

“Okay, I’m leaving. Talk to you later.”

Christina whirled around and left without sparing another backward glance.

In her urgency to keep her job, Emilia didn’t have the time or effort to cause trouble for Christina. “Ms. Andy, although there’s some dispute between Christina and me, you terminate my contract without investigating the issue properly.”

“You think I terminated your contract to get back at you on Christina’s behalf? You’re right. That’s exactly what I’m doing. You should discern who you can and can’t mess with after this incident. Production assistant, take her away already! Do you think someone with no business here should be in the makeup room? Throw her out of here.” The brand manager’s tone was dripping with disdain.

Sensing the situation had gotten more serious, the production assistant dragged Emilia to the dressing room, ordered the staff to strip her from the dress, and tossed her out of the venue.

Shame filled Emilia at the treatment she received. Her mood plummeted.

Ignoring the requests from her friends asking for video clips of the event, she swiftly deleted. the post of her dressed in the gown. Suddenly, she caught a hurried figure passing by.

After a few seconds of hesitation, she followed the rushing figure.

“May I speak with you, Ms. Gibson?”

Chapter 558 Not Sincere Enough

Hearing the voice, Anya glanced over at the owner. It was clear she detested Emilia from the way she looked at the latter.

She said impatiently, “You must be Emilia. If you’re trying to borrow money from me because of Christina, forget it. Christina is now more important than me.”

Emilia appeared embarrassed. “Ms. Gibson, you’re mistaken. I’m not here for money. There are just some things I need to know about Christina. Perhaps, we can be friends.”

When Anya heard that, she laughed with disdain. Her arrogant attitude made Emilia wish. that the ground could swallow her whole.

“Who the hell do you think you are? What makes you think you are fit to be my friend? I don’t care if you’re a destitute daughter in your family. The fact that you are Christina’s stepsister alone means that there is nothing we have to talk about.”

Emilia clenched her fists and controlled her urge to hit Anya. Instead, she said with a humble smile. “Ms. Gibson, we can’t be too absolute in our words and decisions. The enemy of your enemy is your friend. You hate Christina, and so do I. Why don’t we work together and deal with her? How about that?”

Anya considered Emilia’s suggestion seriously. After a long while, she turned her down. “Even if I have beef with Christina, that’s between me and her. I’m not in such a wretched position that I need outside help.”

Emilia had been defeated by Christina. If she were any good, she would not have fallen that far from grace by going from a popular actress to a freelance model.

One look and Anya could tell that Emilia was not an intelligent girl. Emilia was the type who was always up to no good but thought she was a smart person. Anya was not interested in someone as lowly as her.

Anya mumbled in displeasure, “I thought you were going to tell me something important. It turns out to be something irrelevant. Stop wasting my time.”

With that, she quickly turned around and left.

Emilia felt very embarrassed. Everyone bullied her and looked down on her!

This is all Christina’s fault!

Emilia’s hatred for Christina became more intense than before.

If she had to go down, she would drag Christina with her.

Despite searching the whole fashion show venue, Christina still failed to locate Anya. Instead, she bumped into Rayne, who was looking for her.

“Where were you just now? You didn’t answer your phone or return my messages. I was about to die of fright.” There was still a lingering fear in Rayne’s heart. “If anything untoward happens to you, your beloved will skin me alive.”

Christina checked her phone before smiling apologetically at Rayne. “I’m sorry. I

accidentally put my phone on silent mode. Earlier, I got too tired of sitting down, so I went for a walk.”

Rayne stared at her tummy and asked, “Are you not feeling well? Why don’t we head home? There’s really nothing spectacular at this fashion show.”

Christina nodded with a slight smile. “All right then. Let’s go home.”

Both Anya and Emilia had spoiled her mood. Furthermore, Christina did not like crowded. places. Since she had already met and chatted with her senior, Andy, it was not a wasted trip.

Rayne genuinely thought that Christina was feeling unwell, so she gave the pregnant woman her utmost attention and care on their way home.

Christina was flustered by her attention and laughed helplessly. “Don’t worry. You are a very capable staff of mine. Nobody can touch you without my approval.

Rayne patted her chest with relief and said, “Because of what you have just said, I’m willing to do anything for you.”

Christina laughed out loud in response.

Soon, they arrived at Scenic Garden Manor. Rayne only left in peace after seeing Christina. walk into the mansion with her own eyes.

At that moment, Nathaniel was dealing with some work-related emails in the living room. When he heard sounds coming from the foyer, he put down his laptop and made his way there.

“You’re back. Are you tired?” He took her bag from her and led her to the living room while holding her waist. “Do you want to eat something? I can get the cook to make something for you.”

Christina leaned on him and sat down on the couch with him. “I’m not tired. I met Anya at the banquet earlier on. She was behaving strangely.”

She deliberately did not mention Emilia. Instead, she told Nathaniel everything she had. observed.

To that, Nathaniel said, “While investigating Madison’s case, my men did find out something about Anya.”

Christina’s eyes lit up. “What is it?”

Nathaniel tightened his embrace and looked at her with gentleness in his eyes. “Kiss me, and I will tell you.”

In an instant, Christina blushed, but she was not uncomfortable.

She reached out to hold Nathaniel’s face with both her hands and gave a peck at the corner of his lips.

“There isn’t enough sincerity,” complained Nathaniel as a flash of delight flittered across his eyes. He then held on to the back of her head and gave her a passionate kiss.

It was after a long while before Nathaniel let go of her, contented.

Christina was panting slightly, and her eyes were glazed over.

Nathaniel tried hard to control his urges as he said, “The day something happened to Madison, Anya purchased an air ticket back to Hallsbay less than a couple of hours after arriving in Jadeborough. During those two hours, her whereabouts and what she had done. were a mystery. While she was waiting for her plane, she appeared very nervous, as if she was hiding something.”

It was then Christina made a bold guess. “If Anya is the one who ordered Madison to kidnap me, then that would explain her strange behavior. After Madison got caught, Anya was worried that she would be implicated. Hence, she decided to kill Madison to silence her.”

Nathaniel kissed her on the cheek and carried her up the stairs. “Before we have enough evidence, we mustn’t alert the enemy. If the other party can extricate themselves from a murder case, they must have done quite a bit of preparation. It’s getting late. Washi up and go to bed. You can’t stay up late.”

Nathaniel finally managed to turn Christina’s attention away from the case. After taking their shower, the two of them lay in bed and had a lovey-dovey chat. Very soon, Christina fell asleep.

After making sure that she was deep asleep, Nathaniel took his phone and walked out of the bedroom. He then made a call to his subordinate.

“Send someone to keep an eye on Anya and pay special attention to the movements of the Gibson family in Hallsbay.”

Meanwhile, Emilia had gone to the hospital to have her injury seen to. Afterward, she returned to the dilapidated rental house in exhaustion.

When Miranda heard the commotion, she went out and saw Emilia lying on the cold floor like a dead fish. She gave Emilia’s shoulders a nudge and said, “Emilia, don’t sleep on the floor. You will catch a cold”

Emilia opened her eyes and stared angrily at Miranda. Slap! She smacked Miranda’s hand away and complained with disdain. “You’re so dirty! Don’t touch me!”

Miranda’s face turned pale. Tve already taken a shower. I’m not dirty.”

That only infuriated Emilia further. She got up and stared at Miranda like the latter were her enemy.

“I have had enough of this wretched life! Why can’t you be more useful and do something about it? Since you could seduce Gideon back then, why can’t you go and seduce some other rich and powerful man now?”

Chapter 559 We Shall See

Emilia’s words were like a sharp dagger, stabbing directly at Miranda’s heart.

Mortified beyond belief, Miranda couldn’t control herself and slapped Emilia right across her cheek.

The moment her hand fell, Miranda regretted it.

Emilia looked at her mother, her eyes widening in disbelief. “How dare you hit me? What right do you have to hit me?”

Stricken, Miranda pleaded, “I’m sorry, Emilia. I didn’t mean to. I was just too angry, and I couldn’t control myself. Please, forgive me just this once.”

She reached out her hand, hoping to examine Emilia’s cheek, but the latter pushed her away. in disgust.

“Get away from me!” Emilia’s words cut deeper than her actions. “If you had listened to me back then and allowed me to replace Christina and marry Nathaniel, you wouldn’t have been abandoned by the old rascal Gideon and forced to work as a janitor just to get by.”

Staring at Emilia, Miranda gritted her teeth. “Emilia, he’s your father.”

“He doesn’t deserve to be my father. He ruined us. When will you wake up?” Emilia retorted, her grip tightening on Miranda’s shoulder as she spat in a vehement tone, “Look at Sharon, then look at yourself. Are you content with being suppressed by that wretched Christina all your life? Today, she attended a grand banquet, looking all glorious. She caused me harm, and

yet she made me lose my job and even ruined my reputation. I can never work as a model again!”

Overcome with emotion, Emilia burst into tears. “I want Christina dead. I want her dead!”

Her roar echoed through the house, causing Miranda to clamp a hand over Emilia’s mouth in fear. “Calm down, Emilia. The walls here are thin. You need to be quiet.”

Pushing her away, Emilia broke into deranged laughter. “My future is ruined. What else do I have to lose? Even if I was in front of Christina herself, I’d say the same.”

“Emilia, you’re drunk. I’ll help you back to your room to rest. You’ll think clearer after a good night’s sleep,” Miranda pleaded.

“I didn’t drink. In fact, I’m very clear-headed, and I know exactly what I’m doing.” Emilia declared, picking up her purse from the floor and humming a tune as she retreated to her room.

Miranda collapsed to the floor, unable to comprehend how her daughter had changed so drastically in such a short span of time.

Earlier in the afternoon when Emilia had left for work, she had seemed normal.

The sleepless night dragged on, and by morning. Emilia’s elbow wound had worsened.

She ignored the doctor’s orders the previous evening and bathed, exposing her wound to hot water for over half an hour. By then, she was feverish and dizzy.

Unable to bear it any longer, Emilia hurriedly got ready and headed to the hospital alone.

Miranda had already left for work early, so Emilia had no one else to turn to.

Sitting on a bench in the hospital’s corridor, Emilia took a picture of her wound and edited it before sending it to Christina with a message that read: You injured me yesterday, and the wound has become serious. You need to compensate me for my medical expenses. I’m at the hospital waiting for you. We shall see what happens if you don’t show up.

Startled awake by the pinging notification on her phone, Christina fumbled about to bring the device into her sight. A jarring image of a mangled and bloody wound met her bleary. gaze, snapping her awake instantly.

Suppressing a knot of unease welling up in her stomach, Christina replied: What’s the total medical expense? I’ll wire it to you.

Emilia let out a scoff and replied: The doctor said the infection was serious and could lead to amputation. They’ve insisted I be admitted immediately. Since you’re responsible for causing this, shouldn’t you come to take care of me?

Christina furrowed her brows in displeasure as she texted: Out of a sense of duty, I’ll cover all your medical expenses, but I’m under no obligation to tend to you personally. I could arrange for a nurse instead.

Emilia glared at her phone as if intending to bore a hole through it with her gaze alone.

Christina remained utterly unresponsive to her bait!

Pulling at her hair in frustration, Emilia caught a familiar figure flashing by at the end of the hallway out of the corner of her eye. She quickly rose to her feet and followed. Emilia then spotted Sharon queuing at the payment counter.

An opportunity had presented itself right when Emilia needed it the most. She smirked triumphantly and decided to seize the opportunity. With her mind made up, she took a photo of Sharon’s back with her phone and promptly forwarded it to Christina with a caption that read: You can be cruel to an outsider like me, but can you truly disregard your foster mother who raised you? Christina, my health and spirit are deteriorating. Under duress, I might act impulsively.

She doubted that Christina would still act indifferently after this

As expected, Christina’s reaction was intense as the replied Emilia, if you hold any resentment, direct it at me. Don’t resolve the innocent. I’ll come over new. Do not act rectly.

Emile stopped replying to Christina’s messages Concerned, the latter dialed Sharon’s number several times but to no avail

Christina hurriedly changed her clothes and dashed out the door, oblivious to the butler calling out to her

After Sharon collected her medicine from the pharmacy, she walked toward the hongeal exa alone with Kilis tailing her from a distance

To Sharon’s utmost dismay, she encountered the least person she wanted to see at the hongatal entrance, Gideon

Emilie quickly hid behind a paller, watching as Sharon and Gadeon bumped into each other. Their mutual surprise suggested neither had an ipated meeting the other at the bogata

“Why are you here at the hospital Gideon noticed the bag of medicine in Sharon’s hommeð “Are you ill? Why didn’t Christina accompany your

Sharon stared blankly at the unfamiliar figure of Caderen, wondering why he had changed in drastically.

The man looked a decade older than before, his features bearing traces of sickness the confident and arrogant gaze he once held was repeated with an air of timidity

Memories flooded back, and a wave of resentment toward Gideon surged within Shuron of course, she wouldn’t do anything to the man who had once sought her death, but the desired no further interaction with him.

She ignored Gideon as if he were a ghost and walked straight past bien.

Gideon nervously rubbed the hem of his shurt before he mustered the courage to grasp Sharoni’s wrist. As quickly as he had probbed here, he released her and stammered. “I-I won’t harm you. 1 b-bear no ill will. I just wish to speak with you for a bar”

Sharon reflexively stepped back, casting an inexplicable gaze at hun “Gideon we’re not even strangers to each other now. I have a new life ease respect that and stop diaturbeng me

Gideon paled, and he shifted uncomfortably He was well aware that has alts were beyond forgiveness, and the person to whom he had let down mone was Shuron

He desired to make amends, but he had already lost the right and the ability to do so.

“Emilia and Miranda won’t trouble you and Christina anymore. They’re penniless and without any influence, and I won’t let them have the chance to turn their lives around,” he assured Sharon.

Chapter 560 Both Sides Hurt

Remnants of old love, are you? Let me destroy her face today to vent my mother’s rage!”

As her words hung in the air, Emilia fished a pen from her purse, yanked off the cover, and charged toward Sharon like a deranged woman.

Unaccustomed to such intense encounters, Sharon was rooted to the spot, paralyzed with fear.

Despite his frail and ailing body, Gideon put himself between the two women. During the scuffle, Sharon was forcefully pushed into the nearby flower bed.

The tough stems and branches of the plants scratched her bare skin, leaving a bloody tableau that was as horrifying as it was pitiful.

“My goodness! That woman has gone mad! Someone call security!”

An anonymous cry for help drew the attention of Christina who was passing by.

Recognizing the figures embroiled in the scuffle, she gasped.

“Mom!” Closing in, she saw the condition Sharon was in. her body marred by countless wounds. “Let me get a closer look at your wounds.”

Pale-faced. Sharon weakly shook her head. “Emilia has lost her mind. Leave immediately. Do not go near her.”

She was concerned about the safety of the pregnant Christina.

“You’re injured. I can’t leave you here,” Christina said.

As she spoke, Gideon, unable to withstand Emilia’s blows, was toppled over. Emilia etched a deep gash near his eye with the pen.

Blood splattered and chaos ensued.

Bystanders, realizing the severity of the situation, intervened, pinning Emilia down until hospital security could arrive and prevent a greater tragedy.

“I’ll take you to have your wounds treated.” Christina couldn’t care less about the other two people. involved in the initial scuffle.

Seeing as Gideon was only injured because he was trying to protect her, Sharon couldn’t bear to leave him. alone. “Christina, take him with us. After all, he once cared for you.”

Casting a cold glance at Gideon, Christina replied, “Someone will help him. Don’t worry. I’m not an ungrateful person. He protected you, so I will cover his medical expenses.”

Lying on the ground, Gideon was drained from the altercation.

His vision blurred, his hearing muffled, and he could only faintly see the receding figures of Sharon and Christina.

“This is my family matter, and it’s none of your business. Let me go!” Emilia panicked when she heard the head of the security team saying they would send her to the police station. “If you don’t believe me, go ask him. I’m his daughter.”

The head of the security team chided, “How could you, as his daughter, beat him up this badly? I would have believed you if you said that he was your enemy. Well, whatever you have to say, say it to the police. You’re at fault for causing a commotion in the public.”

Then, he ordered his team to send her away.

Christina was anxiously waiting outside while Sharon was being treated for her injuries in the outpatient. clinic. In her nervous disarray, she contacted Nathaniel.

“Nat, Mom’s hurt. She’s bleeding all over, and I’m all alone in the hospital… I’m so scared.” Her voice wavered, a trembling note of fear threaded through her words.

“Where are you? I’ll come to you right away. Don’t worry. I’m here for you,” the man on the other end replied.

Nathaniel, clutching his phone, sprang up from his seat and made a swift exit from the conference room, leaving the room full of high-ranking executives exchanging puzzled glances.

After sharing her location with Nathaniel, Christina sat on a bench in the long corridor. Her body shivered. from a cold that seemed to seep into her very bones.

Then, quite suddenly, she was enveloped in a warm, heavy coat. The comforting scent of Nathaniel wafted up from its fabric. She rose and practically threw herself into his waiting arms.

“You’re finally here!” she cried out.