Ch. 611..620
Chapter 611 Greed
Even though Sebastian still didn’t understand, he didn’t persist in his questioning out of professionalism. Instead, he turned around and got back to work.
Christina finished dinner and wrapped herself in her comfy blankets after a shower. With her phone in hand, she video-called Nathaniel to tell him about her day.
Nathaniel was busy, so Christina was the one who did most of the talking. Nevertheless, he would make the effort to reply to everything she said to prove he was listening.
After nearly three hours, Christina began to doze off.
Nathaniel put on his earphones and set his phone at eye level, then continued his meeting with a softer
tone.
His gaze occasionally strayed to Christina’s sleeping face. The sight of her soundly asleep calmed his irritation, sparing his colleagues, who didn’t do a good job, from a tongue lashing. D
Waking up the next day, Christina noticed her phone battery had died and recalled how she’d fallen asleep without ending the video call.
Sh*t! I’m sure Nathaniel is p”ssed that he couldn’t reach me when the video call ended suddenly.
She hurriedly rummaged through the drawers for her phone cable, plugging one end into her phone and the other into the charging cube. After waiting a few minutes for her phone to power up, she noticed Nathaniel had texted her good night after the call ended.
It’s six something in the morning. Nathaniel should still be in bed at this hour, so it’s probably not a good time to call him and explain.
After racking her brain, Christina concluded that the man wasn’t angry and happily returned to her warm. comfy bed. She then began tapping away on her phone, explaining her “mistake” from the night before.
Once done, she got out of bed and went to the bathroom to wash up.
Christina purposefully dressed like a wealthy lady that day. Every detail, from head to toe, exuded an air of luxury that hinted at her wealth. She had chosen this attire with a specific purpose in mind, for she was about to do something that would send shockwaves through the entire Gibson family.
Sebastian wasn’t the least bit surprised by her choice of attire.
Given the esteemed status and vast wealth of the Hadley family, it was only fitting for its members to lead lives of extravagance.
When Sebastian heard about Christina’s plan, he took it upon himself to enhance her ensemble with a limited edition purse worth tens of millions, adding a touch of opulence to her attire. Even her car exuded luxury, perfectly complementing her lavish image.
After enjoying a sumptuous breakfast, Christina, accompanied by Sebastian and Lyle, headed to the Gibson residence.
The atmosphere at the Gibson residence was filled with chaos and tension. Family members were engaged
in heated arguments about the division of family property and the selection of an heir. Their faces were flushed with anger, their expressions contorted with a fierce determination to secure the best possible outcome for their own families.
Guiding the family meeting was a revered elder of the Gibson family, Alistair Gibson. Each member of the Gibson family would have to approach him with the utmost respect and address him as “Uncle Alistair.”
The family had been embroiled in the same issue throughout the night, engaging in heated debates and discussions. The prolonged arguments had taken a toll on their energy, and weariness had settled in Despite their best efforts, a satisfactory resolution still eluded them.
“Even though Christina is Timothy’s biological daughter, she did not grow up within our family and therefore did not receive the necessary education and grooming expected of an heir. Considering her marriage and the strained relationship her husband has with our family, it is highly likely that she will align herself with his interests,” said Alistair. “That’s all the more reason not to let her succeed the family.”
“That’s right. I agree,” someone concurred agitatedly.
Timothy sat silently at the side, sipping his tea calmly as though his daughter wasn’t the topic of discussion. Nigel had tried to provoke Timothy a few times already but to no avail.
After multiple failed attempts at ruffling Timothy’s feathers, Nigel grew increasingly dissatisfied and confronted him. “Timothy, shouldn’t you say something? This discussion is happening because of you.”
Timothy continued to stay silent, ignoring Nigel’s attempts to get a rise out of him. Nigel’s temper flared up, and he shouted, “How much longer will you keep putting on airs, Timothy? There are so many people here today. Kunning away won’t solve the issue we’re facing”
Timothy slowly raised his head, his eyes scanning the chaotic room before settling on Nigel, who was shouting at him from across the room.
“Were you talking to me?” Timothy pinched the spot between his brows. “I’m sorry about that. I haven’t slept all night, and my health hasn’t been the best, so I accidentally dozed off.”
The rest of the family members felt their blood pressure rise, almost to the point of having a stroke, upon realizing that the subject of their intense debate had slept through the entire night without a care.
Do me look like monkeys performing to him?
Even the typically generous elder couldn’t hide his displeasure with Timothy’s attitude. He addressed Timothy directly, cutting to the chase. “Timothy, let me be clear. I strongly oppose the idea of dividing the family property and changing the heir. While I won’t prevent you from providing some form of compensation to your daughter out of guilt, there must be limits. In the Gibson family, everyone’s voice matters. You don’t have the authority to make all the decisions”
Timothy’s gaze turned icy as it fell on Alistair and Azure. His voice was curt and filled with determination. “I simply want to reclaim what rightfully belongs to me
“In other words, you intend to les Christina inherit the entire Gibson Corporation. She doesn’t possess the slightest knowledge of running a company or handling business negotiations. In the end, Nathaniel will be the one reaping the benefits, Nigel resorted, his voice dripping with sarcasm
Azure nodded in agreement. “Nigel is right”
Timothy sneered as he forcefully placed the teacup on the table, causing a loud thud that reverberated through the room. The thud resembled the warning bells that were ringing in their minds.
Timothy then began, “Perhaps you have conveniently forgotten a crucial detail while indulging in your luxurious lifestyle for the past two decades. The Gibson Corporation, established by my father, faced
bankruptcy fifteen years ago. It was my wife and I who painstakingly rebuilt the present-day Gibson Corporation.”
“We are merely tenants in this building, leasing the office spaces. While the current Gibson Corporation bears the Gibson name, it is my name that resounds throughout the company. The commissions you receive annually from the Gibson Corporation are based on a contract signed by my father many years ago, a contract that should have long expired and become invalid. However, out of consideration for past familial relations, my mother and brother chose to extend the benefits stipulated in the initial contract. I, personally, did not sign that contract. Therefore, I suggest you discuss the intricacies of the agreement with the individual who did,” he continued.
Timothy left no room for further debate as he concluded with unwavering determination, “Effective immediately, the Gibson Corporation will be relocating from its current office building, and none of you have any authority to interfere in company affairs.”
Nigel’s and Azure’s expressions turned dour. They knew better than anyone else in the room who was the real owner of Gibson Corporation.
Nigel stormed across the room toward Timothy, his voice filled with anger as he hissed. “Timothy, you can’t do that. You’re cornering Mom and me with no way out!
“The Gibson family declared you as the heir and CEO of Gibson Corporation. But I distinctly recall that I only granted you a power of attorney. Your greed knows no bounds, Nigel.” Timothy’s voice grew louder, reverberating with authority. D
The entire room erupted into chaos, particularly among those who had relied on the old contracts to reap benefits from Gibson Corporation for years. Panic gripped them as they faced the prospect of potential losses.
If Nigel’s position as CEO is revoked and Timothy feigns ignorance about all the previously signed contracts, those agreements would be rendered meaningless, akin to mere scraps of paper!
The members of the family began turning toward Nigel, demanding an explanation from him.
Meanwhile, Timothy continued to drive his message home by saying, “If you wish, you can sell me your shares at the current market price.”
Nigel figured that he had nothing to lose since things had gotten to this point. Thus, he thundered, “Don’t believe his b*llsh*t! Gibson Corporation wouldn’t be what it is today if he had the financial means. As long as we don’t divide the family property, all of you can still enjoy the current benefits you receive. Dividing the property would be a grave mistake!”
Just then, Christina entered the hall with a graceful stride, accompanied by Sebastian and Lyle.
“I was the one who suggested dividing the family property. If anyone has any objections or grievances regarding this, you can address them to me.”
Chapter 612 The Shocking Secret
The noisy scene was interrupted by the sudden entrance of the three hostile figures.
Almost two-thirds of those present hadn’t seen Christina before, but all of them quickly recognized
Sebastian.
He was Nathaniel’s most trusted assistant. As Hadley Corporation’s second-in-command, he wielded considerable power and influence.
All this while, members of the Gibson family relied on regular dividends from Gibson Corporation to live a life of luxury and develop their own companies.
Despite being aware of the bad blood between their family and the Hadley family, they still hoped to leverage the latter’s business for greater profit.
Therefore, they only dared to disparage Christina but didn’t have the courage to do the same against Sebastian.
“Christina, a junior like you has no place to speak here!” Nigel thundered while staring daggers at Christina. “Shouldn’t you be mindful of the occasion before trying to kick up a fuss?”
Christina threw Nigel an indifferent glance before walking past him and taking her seat nearby.
Azure’s brows furrowed as if to express her disapproval of Christina’s brazen behavior.
“Christina, everyone here is an elder. How can you not greet them before sitting down? This is really rude of you.
A faint smile emerged across Christina’s face. “Mrs. Lazuli, in this modern era, the ways of the old are no longer applicable. Anyway, I didn’t come here for a family reunion. Instead, I’m here in my capacity
as a competitor. Since when have you ever seen anyone behave submissively to the competition?”
Without warning, Azure slammed the table as she sprang to her feet. She then shot Timothy a piercing gaze. “Timothy, aren’t you going to teach your daughter some manners? I’m her grandmother for goodness sake!”
Timothy’s expression was nonchalant. “Christina is an adult now. I won’t force her to do anything she doesn’t want. She has the right and freedom to do whatever she wants.”
“You.” Infuriated by the response she received, Azure’s words caught in her throat before she was interrupted by Christina.
“Calm down, Mrs. Lazuli. Something as trivial as this isn’t worth being angry over. Otherwise, you might burst a vessel after hearing what I have to say later.” Wearing a gleeful smile, Christina spoke in a gentle yet threatening tone. “I’m not going to waste your time. You can still decide whether to divvy up the assets after hearing what I have to say,”
As her words hung in the air, everyone looked in Alistair’s direction.
Given his shrewdness, Alistair could immediately see that Christina wasn’t someone to be trifled with. If it wasn’t because he had something to gain, he wouldn’t have gotten himself involved in the mess.
“Girl, stop with your tricks. They’re not going to do you any good,” Alistair warned.
Nonetheless, Christina was unfazed. “Don’t worry. I’m not the one who’s plotting here.”
The moment she clapped her hands, Sebastian held out a document and walked around with it so that everyone could see.
Their eyes widened in shock at the earth-shattering secret that had been revealed to them.
By the time he arrived in front of Nigel, the latter seemed to have gone berserk as he tried to rip the document out of Sebastian’s hands. The guilt from his action couldn’t be any more telling.
As Sebastian skillfully evaded Nigel, the latter stumbled forward and dropped to his knees from his own inertia. Kneeling on the ground right before Christina and Timothy, Nigel looked as if he was repenting and begging for mercy. 1
Silence descended upon the room as the crowd’s gaze fell upon Nigel in unison.
Christina broke into a smirk. “Uncle Nigel, the first person you should be kneeling in front of is Grandpa,
not me
Nigel shot Christina a burning gaze as he frantically got back to his feet.
All this while, Alistair would turn a blind eye to the political machinations within the family as long as the family’s reputation wasn’t affected.
However, the contents of the document were too explosive and disgraceful to ignore.
Thus, Alistair turned toward Azure and shot her a fearsome look. “Whose son is Nigel, really?”
Azure’s expression drastically changed as she frantically explained, “The paternity test report is fake, Uncle Alistair. Another one was done back in the day.”
Timothy twisted the knife. “That’s because you paid off the person who did it and got him to tamper with the results. I don’t mind bringing that person here to validate the fact.”
One by one, gazes of disgust fell upon Azure. Upon being exposed, she felt so helpless that she collapsed into her chair. Lips trembling, she just couldn’t find the words to defend herself. [D
Thereafter, Timothy calmly recounted the shameful incident from the past.
“Back then, Father’s car accident caused him to lose the ability to have children. At the same time, you announced that you were pregnant, and he became a vegetable before dying three years later. Since Nigel isn’t a member of the Gibson family, he has no right to inherit anything. On top of that, it isn’t difficult for him to make a comeback based on his biological father’s position and influence, isn’t it?”
Upon realizing the underlying implication of Timothy’s words, Christina recalled the rumor about Oswald and Azure.
If I understand correctly, he seems to be saying that Azure is connected to Oswald’s death.
Given how sharp everyone present was, they had long held suspicions over Oswald’s untimely death. Now that the past had been brought up and Nigel revealed to not be Oswald’s son, the possibility of Azure being a prime suspect increased significantly.
Sitting in her chair, Azure was so nervous that she was bereft of words.
Alistair asked, “Timothy, from what you’re saying, I gather you know who Nigel’s father is?”
Jasper proceeded to place another paternity test report on the table. When Alistair lowered his gaze to look, he picked it up and threw it in Azure’s face, thundering, “It turns out that you did have an affair back then. I should’ve never believed you!”
When the paternity test report rolled down from Azure’s hand onto the ground, the name on it was there for everyone to see-Barnaby Stone. He was none other than Sheridan’s grandfather.
Cocking her brows, Christina gave Azure a mischievous look.
No wonder she wants to matchmake me with Sheridan. Since she couldn’t be Barnaby’s wife, she didn’t mind becoming his in-law. At the very least, they could still maintain some sort of a relationship
and wouldn’t raise any suspicions when they saw each other in secret. The plan she has cooked up is truly diabolical! CD
Given the circumstances, Azure didn’t bother defending herself. Her and Nigel’s situation had simply become untenable.
“No… How can I not be a member of the Gibson family?” Nigel was unable to accept the sudden change in his identity.
If what was said is true, I’ll be an illegitimate child of the Stone family going forward!
He knew better than anyone else how humiliating it was to be one.
“Mom, tell me. Am I Barnaby’s son or not?” Nigel bored down upon Azure. “Say it!”
Azure trembled in fear; she didn’t dare look into Nigel’s eyes at all.
Alistair roared, “In that case, there’s no need to divide the assets at all. Timothy is the sole heir of the Gibson family. After causing such a big fuss, it turns out that you’re the one who’s an outsider!”
Chapter 613 Clearing Obstacles
To Nigel, those words felt like a dagger that was stabbed into his heart. At the same time, it cut off the very last chance he had to fulfill his insatiable ambitions.
After plotting meticulously for more than twenty years to seize power, he didn’t expect fate to play such a cruel joke on him in the end.
Instead of being the second son of the Gibson family, he was now a disgraced illegitimate child.
Underneath everyone’s scornful gazes, Nigel stormed off without looking back.
Alistair, too, felt embarrassed by the turn of events. “This is now an internal matter for Timothy’s family, and my involvement would be inappropriate. Timothy is someone who knows what should be done, so I’ll leave this in his hands.”
His words made it clear to everyone that the Gibson family would go through a leadership change.
With that, the rest of the Gibson family was too embarrassed to stay. One by one, they made excuses and took their leave.
Soon, the once noisy hall became empty again.
When there were no outsiders left, Azure’s suppressed rage exploded into the open.
“Timothy, do you think you can disown your own mother just because you’ve reunited with your daughter and have the backing of the Hadley family?” Azure smashed her cup onto the ground. “Who was the one who swore to make the Hadley family pay and exact revenge for Veronica? What good does internal discord within the Gibson family do you?”
Timothy took a sip of tea before glancing at the spilled drink. “Don’t bring Veronica into this. She is not a tool for you to vent your frustration indiscriminately.”
Azure caught her breath while her eyes filled with disappointment. “Even though Nigel isn’t your biological brother, he has always treated you as his elder brother. Let’s not forget everything he has done for the Gibson family. You can’t just get rid of him just because you want to seize power.”
Meanwhile, Christina was staring contemptuously at Azure.
Even though the Gibson family’s last skeleton in the closet was exposed, Azure was more focused on mending the brotherly relationship between Timothy and Nigel than trying to fix the actual problem.
It wasn’t hard to guess her objective. If Nigel wasn’t acknowledged by the Stone family, he would at least still have some place to fall back on.
However, Timothy was dismayed by his mother’s words. “Nigel has undoubtedly ‘done a lot for the Gibson family. In fact, he even tried to kill me for its sake. I have no doubt that he is capable of anything.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Azure gave Timothy a stunned look. When the latter didn’t elaborate, the sense of dread within her intensified further.
Meanwhile, Christina came forward to end the sensitive conversation between the two. “The Stone family will definitely welcome the news of having more grandchildren. I’ve already sent news of the glad tidings
to them. I believe they will soon get someone to bring you and Uncle Nigel over.”
Azure asked, “Are you kicking me out of the Gibson family?”
A smirk emerged on Christina’s face. “Officially, you’re still one of us. Whether you want to stay here or go someplace else is your choice. Anyway, it’s common for people to still find love later in their lives these days. I heard that Old Mr. Stone never remarried after his wife died.”
As Christina’s words seemingly struck a chord with Azure, she surprisingly didn’t have a retort ready despite the scowl on her face.
It was then that the butler came over to inform them that the representatives from the Stone family were waiting outside for Azure.
Having no intention to be involved in the drama of the past, Christina grabbed her bag and stood up. “Dad, I’m going off now, I have something very important to do.”
Timothy reminded her, “Watch yourself out there, and come home for dinner tonight.”
“We’ll see. I might be occupied till late at night.” Thereafter, Christina left through another door. Once she got into the car, she instructed, “Head over to Nigel’s house. Mr. Taggart, have you engaged the people I asked you to?”
“They have gone over ahead of us, Mrs. Hadley. By now, the mansion is probably empty.” Sebastian replied while looking back from the front passenger seat.
“Good.” Leaning back into the seat to rest, Christina replied to the messages on her phone.
That morning, she had received a list of all the Gibson family’s assets. The mansion Nigel’s family was currently staying in was loaned to him by Timothy and his wife. As for a few random shops and pieces of land, Nigel had secretly transferred their ownership to his name over the years.
Some of them were actually part of the dowry Christina’s mother had brought with her during her marriage. Unfortunately, it didn’t stop Nigel’s greed at all.
Moreover, the fake accounts Nigel provided Timothy every year looked extremely genuine. He would make every asset look like it was losing money so that he could buy them over on the cheap.
Now that she had in her hands evidence that Nigel committed fraud, Christina resolved to kick him out of the Gibson family once and for all.
When their car arrived at the mansion, they were greeted by a chaotic sight with furniture and items piled up at the entrance. The teary-eyed duo, Anya and Macy, were hitting the movers and screaming indiscriminately at them.
When Anya turned around and saw Christina, everything became clear to her. “You’re the one who did this! What right do you have to kick us out of our own home?”
Macy, whose hatred toward Christina was boundless, gave her a wary look. “Christina, what are you really up to? We live in a society regulated by a legal system. There’s no way you can act with impunity.”
When Christina gave Sebastian a look, he walked toward the mother-daughter duo with a bunch of documents.
“This mansion belongs to Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Gibson. As of now, its ownership has been transferred to Mrs. Hadley.” Sebastian showed them the title deed one by one. “All of the properties that Mr. Nigel had procured by illegal means will have to be returned.”
Oblivious to what had happened at the Gibson residence, Anya and Macy were devastated by the sight of the documents.
Christina had seized everything that belonged to them.
“Christina, even if the assets are being divided, my dad is the second son of the Gibson family. Your family can’t possibly usurp everything.” Anya was clearly unaware of how grave the situation was. “I’m not going to believe anything anyone says unless my father confirms it!”
A smirk broke out across Christina’s face when she heard this. “Your father doesn’t carry the blood of the Gibson family. How can you be clueless about such shocking news?”
As if they had been struck by lightning. Anya and Macy were stunned, standing frozen in their spots.
Feeling satisfied by their reaction, Christina turned toward Macy. “Aunt Macy, Anya probably hasn’t told you that Yerek is Uncle Nigel’s biological son and not someone my father adopted. Uncle Nigel brought his illegitimate son brought back into the family’s fold so that the latter can be one of the heirs to the Gibson family.”
Macy stared at Anya in disbelief. “Is what she said true?”
There was no way she could accept the idea that the supposedly attentive Nigel had an affair, let alone produced an illegitimate child with his mistress.
Faced with her mother’s pressurizing gaze, Anya had no choice but to admit the fact with a nod.
“Yes. I’ve seen the paternity test report before.
Chapter 614 Choose One
Macy’s eyes went wide as saucers. “No. I don’t believe it. I’ll ask him myself!”
She took out her phone to dial Nigel’s number, but her call was left unanswered.
The shock of so many consecutive bombshells was too much for her to bear, and she fell weakly to the ground.
“Mom!” Anya shrieked, lunging forward to lift Macy in her arms. As she clumsily called for an ambulance, she hissed at Christina, “I won’t forgive you if something happens to my mother!”
Christina responded with a sneer. “Bring it on then. I’ll be waiting for you.”
With that, she turned around and entered the mansion.
Shortly after, the piercing sound of an ambulance siren echoed outside the mansion, filling the air with urgency. The commotion was soon replaced by an eerie silence.
Christina had offered the moving company a higher price to quickly remove the belongings of Nigel’s family and replace them with new furniture.
As she settled on the couch in the living room, she stared at the family portrait on her phone, occasionally glancing at the massive painting on the wall in front of her.
It turned out that the mansion was meant for Timothy and Christina’s mother when they got married. However, Azure gave it to Nigel and his family without obtaining prior consent.
Taking back the property was only the first step in Christina’s plan.
Sebastian approached and informed her in a low voice, “Mrs. Hadley, the person you’re waiting for is here.”
A smile tugged at Christina’s lips as she put away her phone. “Let him in.”
Hence, Sebastian led Yerek into the living room of the mansion. Its interior was no longer the one the latter was familiar with. He willed himself to not show his surprise as he made his way to Christina.
“Christina, I heard you kicked Anya and Aunt Macy out. Why did you do that?” He knitted his brows and put on an air of an older brother.
However, Christina was having none of it. She pushed the documents on the table toward the man. “You don’t have to put on an act. There are no outsiders here. You’re here to make things clear to me, aren’t you?”
Embarrassed for having his intentions exposed so easily, Yerek scowled and picked up the documents from the table.
Every time he finished reading one of them, his heart grew increasingly uneasy.
“Nigel has been kicked out of the Gibson family, which means he lost the right to inherit the family’s assets, and that includes the shares he transferred to you. All of them need to be returned. These documents are evidence that he scammed my father for his assets. In other words, both you and your
father worked together to set my father up. You two will be done for once I hand the evidence over to the police.”
Yerek’s hand trembled, causing the documents to scatter to the ground. Seeing that, he quickly picked them up while pretending to be composed.
Christina simply watching him jeeringly.
“This is all his doing. I don’t know anything. I’ve never committed any wrongdoings against the Gibson family ever since I became a part of it.” Yerek stated through gritted teeth.
“You hired someone to do it instead of doing it yourself. You’ve always wanted the Gibson family’s shares that are in my possession, right?” A smile formed on Christina’s lips. “If you never had the desire, you never would’ve worked with Nigel to become my father’s adoptive son after finding out your true identity. You should be grateful to my father for your being able to live in the glory of the Gibson family for over twenty years. More importantly, you should’ve stopped scheming, but no, your greed didn’t stop at that.”
It was clear as day, what Christina’s agendas were. The woman in front of Yerek was the complete opposite of what he remembered her to be.
Confused, he asked, “Who taught you all these? Was it Nathaniel? Now that he’s ruined Gibson
Corporation, is he finally revealing his true colors by using you to acquire the company? Don’t fall for his tricks, Christina.”
Christina’s gaze darkened dangerously. “Yerek Gibson, stop deceiving yourself. No one taught me this. In fact, Nathaniel never interferes with my decisions,” she snapped.
Finally, Christina issued her ultimatum. “It’s either you return the shares or go to jail. The choice is yours.”
“You’re delusional for wanting to make Gibson Corporation yours. You might be able to force me to leave, but will you be able to make Sheridan back down? He’s already the company’s third-biggest shareholder!” Yerek’s eyes burned with an intense and unsettling gleam as if he had descended into madness.
Instead of backing down, Christina looked straight into his eyes. “The matter is not yours to worry about. You have one night to make up your mind. If I don’t see the share transfer agreement tomorrow, I’ll be seeing you at the police station.”
Yerek curled his fists and shot Christina a furious glare before leaving in frustration.
“Send someone to keep an eye on him, Mr. Taggart,” Christina ordered. Caressing her growling belly, she beamed. “There, there. Just hang on for a little while. I’ll take you for a feast now.”
Hearing that, Sebastian suggested, “There’s a private dining restaurant nearby that makes good food. Would you like to try it, Mrs. Hadley?”
Sebastian’s plan was so thoughtful that Christina could only nod in agreement. “I’ll give it a try, then. I’ve got to head to Gibson Corporation to take care of some things in the afternoon, anyway.”
With that, Sebastian brought Christina to the private dining restaurant, and the server led her to a private
room.
When the door was pushed open, a look of delight spread over Christina’s face once she saw who was in there. “Why are you here?”
“I had to discuss a project with someone in Hallshay, so I dropped by to see you” Nathaniel bright the woman forward and examined her, only to frown in response. “Have you not been eating and sleeping well? You lost weight
Christina chuckled. “We have video calls every day, and it’s only been two days since we last saw each other. If I had really lost weight, it would take at least two weeks to show Stop overthinking. I’ve been eating and sleeping well. You can ask Sebastian and Lyle if you don’t believe me
At the mention of his name, Sebastian piped up tactfully, “Mr. Hadley, Mrs. Hadley has been following your orders strictly
Christina knew full well what Nathaniel was thinking about. In fact, she was sure he did not come to Hallsbay to talk about a project. It was just an excuse for him to see her because he was worried
“I get a nutritionist to replenish your body once you return to Jadeborough Nathaniel cast her waist one final glance before handing her the menu. “Here. Order your food.”
Christina took the menu and randomly ordered a few dishes. When she was done, she asked Nathaniel “Any progress from Winston’s side?” Her eagerness was evident in her voice.
Nathaniel placed the glass of juice that was brought by the server next to Christina’s hand. “Winston has bought all of Raveworks Enterprise’s assets. Nigel doesn’t know about it yet since he’s in Hallsbay Winston’s new company has brought in many investors. It should be able to grow into a similar scale as Raveworks Enterprise in six months.”
Christina took a sip of the juice and continued listening to Nathaniel.
“Although Winston got his relative to become an investor and even promised to give him ten percent of the shares, his relative doesn’t have any power to manage the company. It just so happened that the same relative once participated in the construction of the gulf project with Winston himself. In fact, he’s one of the construction materials suppliers for Winston’s company.”
Christina paused what she was doing “Why would Winston work with that person to set up the company when they have ties? Isn’t he worried about getting targeted?”
To which Nathaniel explained, “Before your parents got into trouble, Winston’s relative had already backed out on the collaboration and left Hallsbay to start another company. Winston’s still the actual person in charge of his company, and that includes the one established by his relative.”
Chapter 615 Wake Up
Christina’s mind failed to grasp the entire situation as quickly as Nathaniel’s. “Can you simplify it? I don’t really get it.”
A look of affection flashed in Nathaniel’s eyes, and he uttered slowly. “Their collaboration back then was just a cover. In reality, the benefits Winston acquired from the gulf project were his to use openly after it got laundered by that company.”
Realization instantly dawned on Christina, and she pressed on, “If we use that man as our breakthrough, will we be able to find evidence of the transaction between Winston and Nigel?”
Nathaniel shook his head. “It’s difficult. Winston might look like an honest person with an idiotic personality, but he’s actually really cunning. Then again, it’s not impossible to fool him.”
The words put a light in Christina’s eyes, and she stared at him enthusiastically.
However, Nathaniel pushed the soup to her and urged, “Drink this first.”
Annoyed by the interruption, Christina quickly took a few mouthfuls and demanded, “Tell me, quickly.”
“Winston hates betrayals the most, and Nigel has crossed the line by selling off Raveworks Enterprise behind Winston’s back. He won’t let Nigel off so easily, but Nigel is not the type who’d swallow his anger either. If the two solved their conflicts in public, the schemes they secretly worked on together would become a threat to the other party. Exposing Nigel’s true identity will be our perfect opportunity. We can use Winston’s name to make Nigel think it was Winston who secretly exposed his identity as the Stone family’s illegitimate child to your father.”
Nathaniel’s information birthed a new plan in Christina’s mind.
“I think this is a perfect plan. Let’s do that,” she said.
“Sebastian’s good at stuff like that. You can let him take care of it so you don’t have to work too hard.”
“I can’t just let Sebastian handle everything. Victoria pays a great deal of attention to Sebastian’s life. She’ll definitely demand an explanation from me when I get back. Besides, it hasn’t been easy for him to get into a relationship. You should give him more time to spend with Victoria.”
“All right. I’ll do as you say and give him a long leave when we get back to Jadeborough.”
Standing outside the private room was Sebastian. He wanted to decline the arrangements Christina and Nathaniel were making for him.
The truth was, he wanted to work more and earn more money because only by doing that would more people approve of his relationship with Victoria.
After lunch, Nathaniel dropped Christina off at the hotel to get some rest while he left to meet a client for a contract discussion.
Christina was surprised that he actually meant what he said at the restaurant. Hence, she had no choice but to give up on making him stay. “I’m going to Gibson Corporation in the afternoon. My father invited me for dinner tonight. You should join us.”
“Okay. I’ll pick you up when I’m done. Rest well,” said Nathaniel before exiting the guestroom.
After a short nap, Christina was dropped off at Gibson Corporation by Sebastian.
Ever since the day Christina and Nigel parted on bad terms, Sebastian had hired someone to track Nigel down.
Meanwhile, Macy was admitted to the hospital after she passed out, and Anya was left with no choice but to dial Yerek’s number incessantly since Nigel could not be reached.
Annoyed by her persistent calls, Yerek barked right after picking up, “I don’t know where he is either! I’m busy, and I don’t have the energy to deal with your business. Don’t blame me for what I’ll do if you bother me again.”
Yerek’s lecture left Anya dumbfounded. By the time she snapped out of her daze, she discovered he had already blocked her on every possible platform.
In the end, Yerek found Nigel in an underground boxing ring. At that time, the latter was absolutely wasted and canoodling with a sexy lady on the couch of a private room.
Yerek barged in and pulled the two apart with a face as black as thunder before splashing Nigel’s face with the alcohol on the table.
Nigel instantly cursed, “Which idiot has a death wish here? How dare you do this to me?”
When Nigel finished his sentence, he wiped the alcohol off his face and found himself staring at Yerek The disgust in the former’s eyes was unmistakable as he slumped back to his seat.
“What are you doing here?”
all of Yerek chased the irrelevant individuals out of the private room before stating, “Christina has dug up our secrets. She’ll be sending us to jail if we don’t do as she says. How are you still able to enjoy yourself here?”
Yerek had a reason for wanting to start his own business.
While Nigel was ambitious, he was not capable of taking charge. If Yerek and Azure had not been secretly helping him, he would have lost his position as the CEO of Gibson Corporation long ago.
Nigel was momentarily stunned, and he hissed, “She isn’t capable of such a thing.”
The man’s remark elicited a scoff from Yerek. “We were tricked by her. She’s more cunning than we imagined. Nathaniel is undoubtedly her strongest backer, but think about it. How is she able to secure her position as his wife if she wasn’t a scheming person?”
Nigel fell silent immediately. Exasperated, he took in a long breath with his head hung in dejection. “I’ve lost the Gibson family’s succession rights, and I don’t even know if the Stone family will acknowledge me. Just give Christina whatever she wants.”
Dissatisfied, Yerek questioned through gritted teeth, “Will you really let her get what she wants? Barnaby came looking for Grandma today. He still has a close relationship with her. If you can convince Grandma to plead on your behalf, Barnaby will definitely accept you into the Stone family. Besides, the Gibson family is useless. Isn’t it better to be the son of the Stone family instead?”
Thinking he was hearing things, Nigel asked, “What did you say? Barnaby came looking for my mother? What did they talk about?”
That was what Yerek wanted to know as well. He shook his head, saying. “They won’t let anyone near when they were talking. The next person Barnaby will be looking for is you. Dad, this is our best chance to make a comeback.”
Nigel mulled over it before rising to his feet as if having made a decision. “You’re right. I’ve already lost my identity as the second son of the Gibson family. I can’t lose the support of the Stone family, too. That’s it. I’m going to look for Barnaby this instant. Even if he doesn’t acknowledge me, I’ll make him give me some form of compensation!”
It pleased Yerek to see Nigel heeding his advice. Thus, the former continued to suggest, “I heard Sheridan and Christina are on good terms. In fact, Grandma once thought of bringing them together. We can make Sheridan the third party to ruin Christina’s and Nathaniel’s marriage. Once Christina is
stripped of her support from the Hadley family, our time to take revenge on the Gibson family will be just around the
corner.
As someone who was wary of Nathaniel and what the man was capable of, Nigel started hesitantly, “Nathaniel is no fool. How could he fail to guess our plan? This is too risky of a move. If we fail, Nathaniel won’t be the only person we’ve offended, but Sheridan, too. He’s the heir of the Stone family, you know?”
Yerek knew Nigel’s character well, so he pretended to say flatly. “It’ll benefit us greatly if Nathaniel and Sheridan got into a fight. If that happens, we’ll still get a portion of the Stone family’s assets even if we don’t get anything from the Gibsons. Besides, Sheridan’s too busy with other obligations. Isn’t this the perfect opportunity for you to show off your capabilities in front of Barnaby?”
Chapter 616 Take Charge Again
Yerek’s words jolted Nigel out of his dejection. The latter was instantly riled up, and his eyes sparkled with motivation.
For the first time, Nigel praised Yerek generously, “Hahaha! You’re truly my son!”
Yerek returned the joyful man’s smile, but his smile never reached his eyes.
In the past, Yerek yearned for fatherly love, which motivated him to always do as Nigel asked. Now that he was older, he had thoughts and ideas of his own, no longer needing his father’s approval.
Nigel was an awfully selfish person. All he cared for was power, a trait that Yerek had inherited.
Now that Christina had reunited with the Gibson family, Yerek was aware that his days in the Gibson residence would be akin to treading on thin ice.
The fact that Yerek was Nigel’s illegitimate child would be exposed eventually, hence he began to seek a way out for himself. His original plan was to replace Nigel once he got the latter’s shares.
Halfway through the operation, Christina and the division of assets happened without warning, ruining Yerek’s plan.
When both Yerek’s and his father’s identities were revealed, they became the most despised people in the family.
Even so, Yerek was unwilling to admit defeat. He wanted to prove to everyone who looked down on him that he could be successful even after he was kicked out of the Gibson family.
“Sheridan and I have quite a good personal relationship. He once checked on me through a text when your identity was exposed. I think Sheridan still sees me as his friend, so I’ll continue to build my
relationship with him. After all, he’s the heir of the Stone family. It’ll make it easier for us to return to the Stone family if we have his help,” Yerek stated confidently.
However, Nigel frowned, still unconvinced. “Are you absolutely certain that Sheridan isn’t just being friendly with you to manipulate you? How can you be sure that he actually cares for you?”
Yerek uttered with confidence, “I was the one who sold him Gibson Corporation’s shares at a low price. That puts him in the same boat as us. Christina will definitely kick Sheridan out of Gibson Corporation if she finds out about my relationship with him.”
Nigel, uncertain how close the two were, eventually decided to place his hope in Yerek after careful consideration and deliberation.
“We’ll definitely be able to turn the tide as long as we work together in the future. Don’t let me down, Yerek.”
“I’ll do my best.”
Now that a weight had been lifted off his shoulders, Nigel ordered more alcohol and invited Yerek to join him in the private room for a night of fun and enjoyment.
Meanwhile, Christina strode into Gibson Corporation, accompanied by Sebastian and Lyle.
The news about the reshuffling of personnel had spread throughout the company early that morning, and Christina’s presence at the company served as confirmation of the news.
Following the operational crisis at Gibson Corporation, a significant number of employees chose to resign. Those who remained were primarily the upper management who helped Timothy rebuild the business.
Regardless of whether Nigel or Christina held the position of authority, the employees would only listen to Timothy’s orders. That was why Nigel failed to kick Timothy out of the company, despite being in control for many years.
Now that Gibson Corporation was in dire straits, Timothy insisted on having Christina take over the company, even if it meant falling out with his family. That alone was sufficient to prove how greatly he valued and trusted her abilities.
Hence, the current senior executives held little concern about who would become the heir of Gibson Corporation. Their primary focus was finding someone capable of revitalizing the company and steering it toward success once again.
That was why the head of the finance department immediately mobilized his team to gather the necessary financial accounts and documents when the CEO requested them.
Christina also summoned the head of the HR department into the office and conveyed her instructions, “Today, there will be internal reorganization within the company. Temporarily dismiss all employees for the remainder of the day. They can resume their regular work tomorrow. Those who wish to resign should notify the HR department by the end of today, while those who wish to stay will be considered for promotions and salary increases. That will be all for now. You may proceed with your task.”
The head of the HR department murmured in acknowledgment before leaving.
Since Christina did not trust the others to deal with the accounts, she got help from Sebastian and Lyle.
Just like that, the trio spent the entire afternoon going through the accounts. It was a fate worse than death for Lyle. He would rather undergo training in the rainforest rather than examine a stack of boring accounts.
Sebastian, too, was beginning to feel dizzy from the assignment. No matter how fast they perused the documents, they only managed to go through half of it. The remaining documents would take at least two days to finish.
Fortunately for the two men, their misery ended with Nathaniel’s arrival.
When Nathaniel entered the office, all he saw was a pile of documents scattered on the ground and the top of Christina’s head behind them.
He casually picked up a booklet and leafed through it. “I own a strong accounting firm under my name. and they’re professional in their job. Why don’t we let them take care of this instead? That way, it’ll be done faster.”
Christina hugged his waist and grumbled, “Why didn’t you tell me this sooner? The sight of these accounts is making me sick.”
“You didn’t tell me you were coming to Gibson Corporation to check their accounts, either,” Nathaniel remarked.
To avoid gossip, he would never intervene in Gibson Corporation’s internal affairs. However, it was another matter altogether if it was Christina who asked for his help.
Sebastian smacked his head hard when he heard Nathaniel’s offer, drawing an odd gaze from Lyle.
Of course, Sebastian could not care less about his co-worker’s gaze. The idea of not having to read the boring accounts filled him with joy.
How could I have forgotten about the accounting firm?
Shooting Nathaniel a look of gratitude, Sebastian said, “Mr. and Mrs. Hadley, I’ll make arrangements for them to come to Hallsbay now.”
The actual reason behind Nathaniel establishing the accounting firm was to take care of his accounts since Hadley Corporation had branches all over the world, but occasionally, they would take up requests from other companies.
“Thank you all for the hard work today. Nathaniel and I are going to have dinner at the Gibson residence tonight. You two are free to make your own arrangements.” Letting go of Nathaniel, Christina grabbed her bag from the table and took his arm with a sweet smile. “We can leave now.”
“Okay.” With that, Nathaniel left with Christina.
Afterward, Sebastian arranged for the accounting firm to come to Hallsbay that evening, and he exchanged a meaningful glance with Lyle.
“I remember Hallsbay has a good boxing ring. Do you want to go there and have some fun tonight?”
Eager to stretch his muscles, Lyle agreed without hesitance, “Lead the way.”
Soon, Christina and Nathaniel arrived at the Gibson residence by car, and the butler welcomed them warmly into the house.
After a day filled with turmoil and upheaval, a deathly silence settled over the Gibson residence. The previous housekeepers had been replaced with a new batch, ensuring that no one dared to treat Christina rudely any more.
Christina was not surprised to see Azure sitting at the head of the dining table.
After all, she was the matriarch of the Gibson family. It would be odd if she was missing.
When Timothy caught sight of the couple, he prompted calmly, “You guys are here. Come take a seat, and make yourself at home.”
Christina alone was enough to make Azure lose her appetite. Now that Nathaniel was here as well, she grew so infuriated that she swept the tableware off the table with no care for her image.
“I won’t eat if I have to share the dining table with an enemy.”
Chapter 617 The Game
Timothy glanced at Azure with a dark expression. “If you don’t want to stay here, you can leave anytime.”
According to the original plan, Timothy had only invited Christina and Nathaniel to have dinner together in order to mend their relationship.
He chose the Gibson residence because he wanted Christina and Nathaniel to go to the ancestral hall together after the meal. This would send a signal to the outside world that the Gibson family and the Hadley family were about to reconcile.
Timothy didn’t disclose to anyone that Nathaniel was coming as a guest. Azure thought it was only Christina, so she had something else in mind. She wanted to seize the opportunity during the dinner to persuade Christina not to destroy Nigel’s family.
Even though Timothy and his family were at odds, and Azure had done unspeakable things, she was still his biological mother. Timothy didn’t object to Azure’s proactive gestures, but it didn’t mean he would tolerate her unreasonable behavior.
Azure glared at Timothy resentfully but eventually held back her retort. She sat quietly at the head of the table and took a big gulp of red wine as if she was venting her frustration.
“Father, I brought Nathaniel back with me to have dinner. These are the supplements we bought for you.” Christina remained unaffected by Azure.
“Mr. Gibson, Mrs. Lazuli, apologies for disturbing you tonight.” Nathaniel handed the gift he was carrying to the butler behind him and greeted Timothy without changing his expression.
At the present moment, the relationship between the Gibson family and the Hadley family was rather ambiguous. However, the truth had not yet been clarified, and before Nathaniel obtained Timothy’s
approval, he wouldn’t neglect Timothy’s previous warning to him and the grudge against him.
Addressing Timothy as “Mr. Gibson” was also Nathaniel’s way of testing the waters.
As for his attitude toward Azure, it depended entirely on Christina.
Christina held some resentment toward Azure. After all, this woman knew the truth but chose to conceal it
for her own selfish reasons.
Nevertheless, Christina hadn’t completely severed ties with Azure yet. She was willing to sit at the same table with Azure out of respect for Timothy..
Timothy studied Nathaniel. “Don’t just stand there. We are a family now. There’s no need to act so restrained in front of me. Please sit down. If we wait any longer, the food will get cold.”
Nathaniel pulled out the chair for Christina and took a seat beside her. Azure glanced at the affectionate couple with disdainful eyes.
Soon, the butler instructed the housekeepers to bring the food, filling up the large table.
The atmosphere at the dining table was not harmonious, but it was not overly tense either. Halfway through the dinner, Azure asked Christina in a sarcastic tone, “I heard that you went to your
uncle’s house today and drove Anya and her mother out of the mansion. Is it true that you want to sue your uncle for illegal appropriation too?”
Christina put down her fork and looked calmly at Azure.
“That’s right. More than half of what their family had been enjoying actually belongs to my family. In the past, when I wasn’t around, my parents took their relationship as siblings into account and helped
them. That lasted for over twenty years, so I believe that we have fulfilled our obligations.”
She continued, “It was Uncle Nigel and his family’s own wrongdoings that led them to this predicament. Now that I’m around, it is only right for me to take back what my family had given them. Besides, regardless of what they had done for Gibson Corporation during the years they managed it, the fact that Uncle Nigel is not a true descendant of the Gibson family gives me the right to make any decisions for the Gibson family.”
As soon as Christina finished speaking, her gaze toward Azure became sharper and more probing. It was accompanied by a cold smile.
“What’s the matter? Since they can’t get what they want from me and my father, are they targeting you instead? You’re getting on in years and should be enjoying your retirement. Let them deal with their troubles. If they have any complaints, they can come to me.”
Azure was caught off guard by Christina’s countermove. Clearly infuriated, she glared at Christina as her chest heaved.
“Christina, you haven’t officially taken over the Gibson family, yet now you’re already acting high and mighty in front of me. It seems like you’ve never liked me from the beginning. Have you been planning to kick me out of the Gibson residence along with them?”
“I’ve never said that before. It is up to you whether you want to stay in the Gibson residence or go elsewhere.”
“Hmph, let me make it clear today. I won’t leave the Gibson residence. This is the property my husband left me. I suggest you leave immediately. You are not welcome here!”
Nathaniel stood up alongside Christina. His gaze was icy as he said, “Since you don’t welcome Christina and me, Mrs. Lazuli, we’ll leave first. Mr. Gibson, sorry for the inconvenience. We’ll take our
leave now.”“
Just then, the silent Timothy spoke up. “Jasper, go to the ancestral hall and take the memorial urn of my wife with you. Pack up the things in my room as soon as possible and send them all to Rose Gardens.”
“Very well.” Jasper walked out from the corner and headed to the ancestral hall in the backyard.
Azure looked at Timothy in disbelief. “Are you abandoning me, your own mother, for this wretched girl?”
Timothy’s voice was solemn. “It’s you who doesn’t want to acknowledge us. From now on, I will continue to deposit your allowance into your account. You only need to take care of your own affairs. It’s better if you don’t interfere with anything else.”
His words contained a subtle but dangerous warning.
Seeing Timothy’s resolute attitude, Azure spoke without restraint. “Fine. If you dare to walk out that door with that memorial urn, don’t bother coming back in the future. I’ll take it that I never had a son like you!”
Timothy clenched the armrest of his wheelchair and moved toward Christina’s side. “Let’s go.”
Nathaniel moved behind him and reached out to push the wheelchair toward the door, and Timothy didn’t object.
The three of them got into the car, and soon Jasper walked over to the back seat of the car with a bundle wrapped in cloth. Then, he passed it to Timothy through the window.
“Mr. Gibson, this is Mrs. Gibson’s memorial urn.”
“Drive.”
Timothy received it and held it tightly in his arms as if embracing a precious treasure.
Christina and Nathaniel then accompanied Timothy back to Rose Gardens.
Timothy was worried that the two of them hadn’t eaten enough at the Gibson residence, so he instructed the cook to prepare a table full of delicious dishes.
Christina enjoyed her meal with delight, while Nathaniel took a few bites and then paused to serve her.
Timothy held less resentment toward Nathaniel now. “Mr. Hadley, come with me to the study for a moment. Christina can continue eating.”
Curiosity sparked in Christina’s eyes as she watched them leave. Timothy explained, “I need to discuss something with him. I won’t do anything to him.”
Nathaniel said, “Eating too much seafood is bad for you now. Don’t eat too much. Remember to drink the soup and have some bread, or you’ll get hungry later.”
Christina nodded and watched the two of them enter the study on the first floor.
She was curious about their conversation, so as soon as they left, she lost her appetite. She quickly finished the food in front of her, quietly approached the study door, and strained her ears to listen to the voices inside.
Timothy’s voice floated over to her through the closed door.
“I’m almost certain that Nigel is the mastermind behind the entire conspiracy…”
Chapter 618 The Weight Of A Promise
The soundproofing in the study was excellent, making it difficult for Christina to hear clearly. Seeing no one around, she discreetly opened the study door just a crack.
“I had people investigate the accident from back then. Although Nigel neatly tied up all loose ends, there are still many suspicious leads upon closer inspection. After I established myself and relied on the connections my father had built, I developed Gibson Corporation. At that time, Nigel repeatedly expressed his desire to join my company in order to gain some work experience.“
Timothy’s voice continued, “Christina’s mother had always been gentle, but she was particularly firm on this matter. She didn’t agree to let Nigel work at Gibson Corporation. Later, my mother had some complaints about her because of this, and Nigel’s family also didn’t like her. The only time Nigel and his wife were good to Christina’s mother was two days before the accident.”
Regret and anger welled up in Timothy’s eyes, and the veins on his forehead bulged as if he was trying to suppress some emotions.
“It wasn’t until recently that I realized why they changed their attitudes so quickly. They knew deep down that something would happen to me and Christina’s mother. Nigel, as my younger brother, could then rightfully take over the entire Gibson Corporation. However, he miscalculated as I didn’t die-I became disabled instead! If it weren’t for Christina… I might have become a disabled and worthless person for the rest of my life.”
Then, Timothy turned to Nathaniel. Im not telling you all this today to gain your sympathy or help. When Christina takes over Gibson Corporation, her situation will become very dangerous. I hope to obtain a promise from you. Nathaniel, you must promise me that no matter what happens in the future, you will never abandon Christina or harm her in any way!”
Timothy’s voice carried a hint of ruthlessness, and Nathaniel sensed that if he couldn’t give a clear answer, Timothy wouldn’t let him leave Rose Gardens safely.
When it came to Christina, Nathaniel never held back his true feelings in front of others.
“Mr. Gibson, rest assured that Christina is the only love of my life. She is more important to me than my own life. Even you cannot harm her in the slightest. In fact, the entire Hadley family will back her up.”
Finally, Timothy’s face cleared up. “I do trust your character. Christina doesn’t have much experience in taking over the company, so please guide her whenever you have the time.”
Nathaniel smiled slightly. “She is smarter than you imagine.”
“Good, then I can rest assured.” Timothy chuckled. His gaze swept past Nathaniel to the person hiding behind the door. “Come in. Don’t eavesdrop outside.”
Christina hesitated for a moment, then awkwardly pushed open the door. “Um… I wasn’t intentionally eavesdropping on your conversation.”
Timothy smiled knowingly. “I promised you that I wouldn’t do anything to Mr. Hadley, yet you still don’t
trust me?”
Christina blushed and glanced at Nathaniel, who was teasingly looking at her. She quickly averted her gaze and explained, “I wasn’t worried about him. I just ate too much earlier and wanted to walk around so that I
can burn off some calories.”
Timothy didn’t make things difficult for Christina. “I’m actually a bit tired. There’s a garden at the back of Rose Gardens. Let Mr. Hadley accompany you for a walk. If you like, you can also stay here tonight.”
Nathaniel said, “Then we won’t disturb your rest. We have a place to stay, and it would be inconvenient to stay here at Rose Gardens. Please excuse us.”
Timothy wasn’t angry for he had already anticipated this. “It’s fine. It’s best that you have your own arrangements. Since it’s still early, you can go and explore the back gardens. The scenery there is beautiful, and you’ll like it.”
Nathaniel took Christina’s hand and they left the study. Walking side by side intimately, they headed for the back gardens.
Timothy sat by the floor-to-ceiling window in the study, watching the two figures glued to each other. He exclaimed with a sigh, “Jasper, it seems Christina didn’t marry the wrong person. Nathaniel will be her greatest ally in this lifetime.”
Jasper replied, “Yes. If Mrs. Gibson knew that Ms. Christina has found such a good man, she would surely be delighted.”
Timothy’s gaze suddenly became distant. “In order to protect Christina’s happiness, I should do something meaningful for her as her father.”
Jasper looked up at Timothy in astonishment and then lowered his gaze. “Are you planning to take action
now?”
A large plum blossom forest was grown at the back of Rose Gardens. A winding bridge traversed through it, and the warm yellow light illuminated the path ahead. In the midst of the chilly breeze beneath the night sky, a sense of desolation permeated the air.
Christina gazed at the plum blossoms before her, and a few fragments of memories flashed through her mind. “These are my mother’s favorite plum blossoms. I vaguely remember that she would always pick a few branches of them and put them in a vase in the room. But I was mischievous and would always mess up the flowers she carefully arranged. She never scolded me for it though.”
Nathaniel reached up and brushed away the plum blossom petals that had fallen on her head. “Your mother must have been a gentle and beautiful woman.”
A trace of pride flickered in Christina’s eyes. “Of course she was. People in the Gibson family always say that I resemble her.”
Nathaniel gently and patiently reassured her, “Yeah, you’re also gentle and beautiful, my wife.”
“Nathaniel, you’re becoming more and more skilled at flirting.” Christina blushed and playfully changed the subject. “I feel a bit uneasy. My father’s words just now seemed like he was entrusting us with something.
“Don’t overthink it. I won’t let anything happen to him,” Nathaniel promised. “I won’t allow anything that upsets you to happen. Let’s follow your father’s suggestion and enjoy the scenery. Let’s not discuss those unhappy topics anymore. Just relax as you’ll probably become busier after tonight.”
Christina smiled in relief. “You’re right. I can’t waste this rare and beautiful sight. I think I hear the sound
of water. Will you accompany me to check it out?”
Nathaniel accompanied Christina as they explored the entire back part of the estate. Then, they bid farewell to Timothy and left Rose Gardens, returning to their hotel to rest.
Before falling asleep, Christina received a phone call from Sheridan. She glanced in the direction of the bathroom and walked out of the bedroom with her phone in hand.
Sheridan’s voice was warm and comforting as always. “Christina, I heard that you’ve returned to Hallsbay. When will you have time to meet? Let’s catch up.”
Considering his current private relationship with Yerck, Christina planned to meet Sheridan and discuss the acquisition of his shares in Gibson Corporation after examining the company’s accounts.
“I’m sorry, I have too many things going on lately. I can’t find time to meet with you.”
“It’s okay. The Gibson family has gone through such a big upheaval, and you’ve just returned to take over. There are indeed many things to handle.”
Sheridan smiled, feigning how much he cared.
“Christina, during the time you were away from Hallsbay, I actually missed you quite a bit.”
Chapter 619 Tolerant
Instead of feeling excited and moved, Christina was unfazed when she heard those words. In fact, she e felt uneasy.
Right when Christina was about to utter something in response, Sheridan defused the tension by saying in a joking manner, “Don’t misunderstand me. I merely missed you as a friend. You’re the only friend who I can talk to openly. Hence, I’ll cherish our relationship.”
Christina gladly took the opportunity to get out of the awkward situation. “It’s my honor to be such a special friend of yours, Mr. Stone.”
“I’ll be going to Gibson Corporation tomorrow. While I’m there, I’ll send you a gift. Christina, treat it as a kind gesture and don’t reject it, okay?”
Even if Christina wanted to, she couldn’t reject his gift because Sheridan was one of the top three major shareholders in the company. I’ll eventually need to name my price if I want to regain all the shares.
“All right. See you tomorrow,” Christina answered.
For some reason, Christina felt as though Sheridan’s mood had improved massively after he heard what she said.
“I’m looking forward to see you tomorrow. Goodnight, Christina,” he said.
“Goodnight.”
Coincidentally, Nathaniel was exiting the bathroom, so he heard Christina saying goodnight to someone on the phone.
Angered, he approached her and pretended to ask casually, “Who’s calling you this late at night?”
Christina didn’t sense his jealousy, so she replied, “That was Sheridan. He’s meeting me at Gibson Corporation tomorrow because he said he wanted to send me a gift.”
A strong wave of jealousy surged within Nathaniel, and he sneered. “He’s good at flirting, isn’t he?”
Finally, Christina realized what was going on. Amused, she explained, “Mrs. Lazuli was the one who arranged my blind date with him back then, and that happened so long ago. Sheridan had helped me quite a lot, so we’re friends. Don’t be too harsh on him, okay?”
Nathaniel’s expression darkened as he walked toward the countertop to pour himself a glass of wine before downing it. Seeing that, Christina immediately went up to him and snatched the bottle of wine
away.
“How are you going to get on the flight to Jadeborough on time if you drink like that? Please take care of your health,” she urged.
In response, Nathaniel stared at her and fumed, “There’s no such thing as a platonic relationship between men and women. He’s definitely into you. How could you ask me to not be harsh on a man who’s after you? How am I supposed to tolerate that?”
Only then did Christina know how much it bothered him. “Nathaniel, I swear there’s nothing fishy going
on between Sheridan and me.” In a serious tone, she continued, “I’ll interact with him, but it’s purely work. I need to take back his shares in Gibson Corporation as soon as possible.”
Nathaniel became domineering and uttered, “I can afford to buy the shares from him!”
“What if he says no? Are you going to have a fallout with him?” Christina frowned, “I don’t want you to put your life at risk for me all the time. Now, we don’t know about the deal between Sheridan and Nigel. 1 need to make sure they don’t link up and come after us.”
Although Christina was grateful for Sheridan’s help, she couldn’t trust him because Nigel was a descendant of the Stone family.
With that, Christina hugged Nathaniel and uttered softly, “Nathaniel, I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”
Nathaniel calmed down instantly and realized how childish his behavior was. How could I question Christina’s loyalty?
“I’m sorry, Christina. I didn’t mean to get angry at you,” he apologized.
“I know. It’s just that you care about me deeply, so you don’t want men to get close to me.” Christina flashed a smile. “Are you feeling better now that we’ve cleared the air?”
“I’m not angry anymore. Let’s go to our room.” Nathaniel looked at her affectionately. I can never get enough of seeing her face.
“All right.” Christina smiled.
The next day, Nathaniel had to go to Jadeborough to attend an important meeting. Christina sent him to the airport and went straight to Gibson Corporation.
Within a night, Nathaniel’s team of expert accountants had finished compiling all the problems with the company’s accounts.
Christina felt her heart grow heavier as she listened to Sebastian’s report. It seems like Gibson Corporation isn’t only failing due to external factors. Nigel had been misappropriating the company funds! He had been siphoning money off Gibson Corporation into Raveworks Enterprise! No wonder Nigel dared to cash out on Raveworks Enterprise behind Winston’s back.
“What’s the relationship like between Nigel and Winston?” Christina asked.
“Those two are on the verge of having a complete fallout. In fact, they’re both waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike,” Sebastian reported truthfully.
Christina closed the ledger and narrowed her eyes dangerously. “If that’s the case, let’s make lives easier for them. Get someone to tell Nigel about how Winston exposed Yerek’s real identity. We should let them deal with each other for a while so that Nigel wouldn’t have the time to pester me.”
“Understood. I’ll get on it.” As soon as Sebastian finished his sentence, the secretary came in and told Christina that Sheridan had arrived.
“Invite him in.” Christina instructed.
Before the secretary led Sheridan in, Sebastian and Lyle tactfully exited the room.
Although they hadn’t seen each other in a long time, Sheridan still looked the same. If anything, his politeness made him look much more approachable than before.
“It’s been a while, Christina.” Sheridan walked up to her. “I thought you wouldn’t want to meet me today.”
Christina flashed a polite smile and replied, “We made an appointment last night, no? I wouldn’t flake on you. What would you like to drink? I’ll get the secretary to bring it in.”
“Black coffee, please. Thank you.” Sheridan pulled out a chair and sat down casually.
After the secretary served him the coffee, the two got down to business.
“I’m returning you Gibson Corporation’s shares that I acquired from Yerek,” Sheridan uttered.
Christina was baffled, and she was at a loss in the face of Sheridan’s generosity.
“Mr. Stone, these shares are worth at least twenty million. I’ll take no reward when I’ve done no merit,” she said.
“Well, make an offer. I’ll accept it regardless of the price.”
Christina couldn’t tell what Sheridan was getting at. Pondering for a moment, she asked directly, “Mr. Stone, I would like to know why you’re returning all these shares.”
Sheridan kept his incomprehensible eyes on her and asked, “Christina, we’ve merely not seen each other for some time. Why don’t you call me by my first name? As I’ve said, I need an incredibly capable person like you to be my friend.”
Chapter 620 Poach
Sheridan concealed his intentions, but Christina wasn’t a fool. Although Sheridan had just made me a generous offer, that doesn’t change the fact that he’s a businessman. He won’t give up on twenty million worth of shares to please a friend. After all, he’s not a man who will act impulsively at will.
“Mr. Stone, due to the circumstances of our relationship, I think we ought to maintain a distance from each other to avoid letting others take advantage of us.” Christina then put on a serious expression and added, “Tell me what your motive is.”
“I’m just trying to prove that although Yerck and Nigel are from the Stone family, that doesn’t change my relationship with you.” Sheridan had a poker face that prevented others from knowing if he was telling the
truth.
Christina was skeptical, but she couldn’t give up on the chance to acquire the shares. “Here’s my offer, Mr. Stone. I’ll pay you the amount you paid for the shares and top up another five million. If you’re okay with that, we can sign a contract right away.”
“If you feel bad about it, perhaps you should just pay me the exact amount I paid for the shares. Instead of topping up the amount, why don’t you return me a favor by buying me a meal? I’m easily contented, but there are things that I might insist on.” Sheridan smiled faintly and added, “After all, people always long for things they can’t get their hands on.”
Christina ignored the ambiguous words and went straight to the point by saying, “I’ll get my secretary to draft the contract, then.”
With that, she called her secretary through the internal line and told her to draft the contract before bringing it into her office.
While they were waiting. Sheridan tried to engage in small talk with Christina, but she merely gave him blithe replies.
Soon, the contract was delivered to Christina. However, Sebastian was the one who delivered it to her.
Sheridan’s smile stiffened when he saw Sebastian. “Have you been poached. Mr. Taggart? Weren’t you working for Mr. Hadley as his secretary?”
“You’ve misunderstood, Mr. Stone. Mrs. Hadley had just taken over Gibson Corporation, so she might have trouble going through work. Hence, I’m currently her assistant,” Sebastian answered politely.
Upon hearing that, Sheridan smiled meaningfully and stated, “I see. Still, I know how capable you are. Mr. Taggart. You have the ability to help others achieve success. If you ever wish to work elsewhere, feel free to contact me. I’m in need of someone as incredible as you, Mr. Taggart.”
Before Sebastian could answer, Christina reprimanded Sheridan jokingly, “Mr. Taggart is my assistant now, Mr. Stone. Are you trying to poach my assistant right under my nose? That’s rather inappropriate, no?”
In response, Sheridan said, “Oh, I’m sorry. It’s just that I urgently need an assistant to lessen my burden, and Mr. Taggart here is an excellent candidate. Christina, don’t we have a good relationship? Would you really hold a grudge against me?”
Christina signed the contract and pushed it toward him in a friendly manner. “You’ve just solved a
problem for me, Mr. Stone. Why would I hold a grudge against you? Perhaps we can even work together in the future. I wouldn’t let something as trivial as that ruin our relationship.”
Sheridan quickly signed the contract and lifted his gaze toward Christina. “I feel more at ease now. If you need anything in the future, ring me up.”
“I still have work to attend to, so I can’t continue chatting with you, Mr. Stone. I’ll treat you to a meal soon.” Christina smiled cordially.
Sheridan rose to his feet and replied, “I’ll wait for your call.”
Christina turned toward Sebastian and instructed, “Mr. Taggart, please walk Mr. Stone out.”
Sebastian nodded and sent Sheridan out.
Before Sheridan entered his car, he gave Sebastian his business card and said, “I think you and I hit it off right from the start, Mr. Taggart. If possible, let’s meet and have a conversation privately.”
“Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Stone. However, I’m not resigning anytime soon. Goodbye, Mr. Stone,” Sebastian uttered in a formal tone.
Obviously, Sheridan knew it wouldn’t be easy to poach Nathaniel’s staff. If it were easy, his assistants would have been poached long ago. Yet, I like a challenge as I need loyal employees around me.
“It’s okay. My offer to you stands valid for a long time. Even if we don’t end up working together, we can still be friends.”“”
With that, Sheridan got into his car.
Sebastian watched the car leave and threw Sheridan’s business car into the bin without even taking a look at it before going back into Gibson Corporation. Countless people had tried to poach me, and they would all offer me dozens of times more than what Mr. Hadley is paying me. These people were rich and ambitious, but they could never have Mr. Hadley’s domineering, regal demeanor.
Sheridan’s good mood was dampened when he returned to his company to see Yerek waiting for him.
Upon dismissing the secretary, Sheridan walked into the lounge without any expression and sat down. “Why are you here all of a sudden, Mr. Gibson? Is there something important you want to talk to me about?”
Yerek was eager to tell Sheridan his plan, so he didn’t notice Sheridan’s aloofness. “Sheridan, I’m actually here to tell you about something important.”
Sheridan furrowed his brows but kept his displeasure to himself. “Are you here for Gibson Corporation’s shares?”
“That’s right. The Gibson family has gone too far. I don’t mind giving them back their assets, but they took revenge on us by going after a company that belongs to me and my dad. I have no choice but to return the favor. You’re now one of the shareholders in Gibson Corporation, so I was hoping you could help us make life difficult for Christina. That would help our company massively,” Yerek replied straightforwardly.
Sheridan took a sip of the coffee his secretary had served him and asked sarcastically. “May I know who are you to order me around?”
Yerek froze momentarily before letting out a dry chuckle. “Grandpa had already met up with me and my dad. He told us he would acknowledge my dad. Therefore, we’ll be family in the future.”
“That’s Grandpa’s decision, and it has nothing to do with me. Thus, I don’t need to accept it. I’m still in charge of the Stone family, so my decision is the only one that matters,” Sheridan sneered.
Yerek’s expression changed slightly. “Even if you don’t want to treat me as family, you’ll still help me out as a friend, right?”
In response, Sheridan answered curtly, “Oh! You reminded me of something. Mr. Gibson. When are your planning to pay me the money you owe me?”
Yerek was puzzled. “What money?” he blurted. I have so much debt to pay, and those debt collectors pester me daily. I don’t remember owing Sheridan any money!
“When you sold Gibson Corporation’s shares for twenty million to me back then, you borrowed a few million from me, didn’t you?”