Ch. 2091..2100

Chapter 2091

How he wished life could go on this way, with the two of them supporting each other and living together

in harmony. Caiden loved the feeling of living a peaceful and stable life.

He just wasn’t sure if he would be lucky enough to marry her.

“What do you feel like eating, Caiden? I’ll cook for you,” Joan called out as she approached the kitchen.

“Anything’s fine. I’ll have whatever you make,” Caiden quickly replied.

Uhh… What kind of answer is that? How would I know what he likes or doesn’t like?

Forget it. I’ll just whip up a few common dishes. Joan picked up her knife and got to work.

“By the way, Joan, Larry called you a while ago. Do you want to call him back?” Caiden remarked,

acting nonchalantly as he flipped through the magazine again.

Joan suddenly froze.

Oh, no. Larry’s going to lose it if he finds out I’m at another man’s place and even cooking for him!

What should I do? Should I call him and explain myself?

She looked at the time and realized that it was getting late.

Never mind. I’ll just get this over with for now and talk to Larry when I get home.

As Joan kept herself busy in the kitchen, her phone on the table began ringing once again. This time,

Caiden chose to ignore it. He didn’t have to look at it to know that it was Larry calling. He wanted Larry

to misunderstand the situation, and it would be even better if the couple ended up leaving each other.

Soon, the dining table was filled with an array of dishes. Caiden was pleased by the unknown yet

familiar scents coming from the food.

“Come, Joan. Let’s eat together,” he offered happily.

“Oh, uhh… It’s fine, Caiden. I have to go now. You know Ms. Young’s still at the hospital, so I’ll have to

prepare her food. Your food’s ready. I don’t know if you’ll like it, but give it a try. See you!” With that,

Joan took her purse and phone before rushing out.

“Hey! Joan! You haven’t eaten either! You’ll be hungry…” Caiden called out from behind.

Ms. Young? Yeah, right! You’re off to see Larry, aren’t you? Caiden’s brows furrowed.

There’s so much food. How am I going to finish everything? The man put down his fork and spaced out

while staring at the ceiling.

In truth, he was a great cook who could probably whip up better food than the dishes laid out on his

table. It was just that he didn’t usually cook, and that he really wanted to try Joan’s cooking.

Joan swiftly hailed a cab and headed to the hospital.

Panting, she barged into the ward and sighed with relief upon seeing Delilah.

“What’s wrong, Joan? What’s the rush? Did something happen?” Delilah gazed at her curiously.

A man stood by the window, looking cold and displeased.

Joan knew that Larry was mad.

She also knew that she shouldn’t have done what she did without letting him know.

“Where did you go?” Larry slowly turned around.

Joan began to wonder if she should tell him the truth. If I tell him the truth, he’ll definitely be mad. But if

I don’t, he won’t be happy either!

This is… such a tough situation.

“Hey, Joan, what are you thinking about? Larry’s asking you a question,” Delilah reminded.

“Oh, uhh… My friend wasn’t feeling too well, so I dropped by for a visit,” Joan answered sheepishly.

“Which friend?” That was certainly a question worth pondering over.

“Nancy. Yeah! She’s been feeling sick lately, so I went to look after her for a while,” Joan blurted.

She’s lying! She obviously went to Caiden’s place. Why is she trying to cover it up? Larry became

increasingly perplexed as he stood before Joan.

 

 

Chapter 2092

What is she afraid of? Why would she have to lie if nothing actually happened between them?

“Joan.” The atmosphere tensed up as Larry walked toward her.

Does he already know? Joan glanced at him anxiously, trying to avoid his gaze.

“I have things to deal with at work, so I’ll be leaving now. I’ll leave Ms. Young to you.” The man left right

after saying that.

Joan immediately breathed a sigh of relief.

Delilah watched the entire ordeal, clearly aware that Joan had lied.

Silly girl. You’re such a bad liar, but you chose to lie right at Larry’s face. It’s no wonder he’s mad!

“Did you really drop by Nancy’s place?” asked Delilah while drinking some milk.

“Huh? Yeah, I just got back from there,” Joan responded diffidently.

“Seriously… Why aren’t you telling the truth?” Delilah shook her head.

Joan felt awkward. That’s because I don’t want him to misunderstand me! But how did she know I was

lying?

“You knew, Ms. Young?” Joan gazed at her, full of curiosity.

“Of course. Do you have any idea how many times Larry called you? He was so worried, and yet you

still lied to him after coming back here. You went to Caiden’s place, didn’t you?” Delilah looked out the

window in a slight daze.

Despite seeing Joan as her own daughter, the older woman spared no effort in pointing out anything

she didn’t agree with.

So he does know. He just chose not to talk about it. Joan felt a little upset. Then, why didn’t he ask me

about it instead? He wasn’t like this before.

“Well, if Larry didn’t bring it up, that means he still trusts you. Don’t overthink, but don’t do something

like that again either. And what’s going on with Caiden, anyway? Why would he get you to cook for

him…”

Delilah asked so many questions that Joan didn’t know where to begin. Even so, there was no denying

that Joan was alive because Caiden had saved her. Otherwise, she would have been dead by now.

“Okay, Ms. Young, are you hungry? Let me cook something for you.” The woman walked straight into

the kitchen.

Delilah wasn’t too pleased with her response, but she understood why the latter was behaving this way.

Well, there are some things I don’t have to know–as long as she does. I’m sure she’s smart enough to

make the right decisions.

Meanwhile, Lucius got along well with his classmates in school. Every child had dazzling smiles on

their faces.

“Is everyone here?” asked the principal.

“Yes!” the students responded.

“I have good news for everyone. We’ll be having a field trip, and your parents will be coming along. It’s

going to be a camping trip…” The principal announced excitedly. “Isn’t that great, children?”

Every teacher and student looked forward to such an event, and so did a large majority of parents.

Many parents had requested this as it was a great way for them to bond with their children.

Yet, Lucius wasn’t too happy.

It wasn’t that he didn’t want to take part in the field trip; it was just that Larry had always been busy with

work while Joan had to look after Delilah. There was no way they could make time for such the boy’s

school activities.

“What’s wrong, Lucius?” the homeroom teacher asked gently.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to join the camping trip,” Lucius explained.

The teacher felt stumped. It hadn’t been easy trying to organize such a trip; how could anyone pass up

on it just like that?

“How about this? I’ll give your mother a call and talk to her about this, okay?” The teacher caressed the

boy’s head.

 

 

 

Chapter 2093

Without hesitation, the homeroom teacher dialed the number on the phone.

“Hi, may I speak to Lucius’ mother, please? I’m his homeroom teacher. I’m calling to inform you that the

school is holding an event…”

Joan, who was answering the call in the hospital ward, felt equal parts awkward and troubled.

It was not that she did not want to participate in the field trip, but it was just not plausible for her to do

so. Delilah was in the hospital at the moment. Joan could not possibly leave her side.

“I’m sorry, teacher. I’m tied up with something urgent at the moment. I don’t think we can go this time.

Maybe the next one?”

In a split second, the homeroom teacher got worked up. “Look, as Lucius’ teacher, it’s my duty to

inform you that the school has gone through painstaking efforts to set up this field trip. I sincerely

advise you to attend. After all, nothing should be more important than your child’s education…”

This is the first and hopefully the last parent who would say no to a field trip with their children! The

homeroom teacher shook her head as she stared at the screen.

“What’s the matter, Joan? Are you tired? Take a rest,” Delilah said to Joan, who seemed troubled.

“No… It’s Lucius’ school. They’re having some sort of field trip. Parents are required to attend. But I just

don’t have the time! And Larry… he’s busy too!” Joan said, feeling dejected.

“It’s alright. You two should go. Ask Larry if he has time. If not, never mind,” Delilah murmured.

“You don’t have to worry about me. I’ll be fine. I have a nurse, remember? Don’t you worry for nothing.”

Delilah waved her hand.

That was what Delilah said, and it was certainly sound advice, but Joan just could not accept it. Delilah

would undergo her surgery soon. Joan could not let herself relax in the slightest.

“Oh, come off it. You should get packing, take some time off, call Larry, attend that field trip, or

whatever they call it.”

Delilah, that considerate old woman, certainly thought of everything. Sometimes, Joan really admired

that woman. She had to admit, Delilah was exceptionally clear-headed for someone her age.

In the office, Larry was immersed in his work as he tended to the documents. He only turned away

when the phone he had set beside him began to vibrate.

“Larry, there’s a field trip coming up at Lucius’ school. The student’s parents are required to come. Can

you make it?” Joan asked lightly.

Her greatest fear was that Larry was still mad at her and that he might turn her down because of it. She

knew that Lucius had been looking forward to the field trip.

But… never mind. It’s fine if he can’t go.

“Oh, sure. When is it? Can you send me the time and venue?” Larry asked, and hung up soon after.

He’s busy, isn’t he? Looking at the text on the phone screen, Joan broke into a faint smile.

She hung up the phone and called Lucius’ homeroom teacher next, to confirm that the three of them

would be going together.

Lucius was quite surprised to hear that.

“Teacher, is that true? Are my Mom and Dad really willing to come with me?” Lucius blinked, somewhat

doubtful of it all.

“Of course it is, so you have to be a good boy, alright?” The class teacher smiled at him.

But no one could have foreseen what would happen that day, especially not Lucius. He would not have

thought that his father would be replaced by someone else.

“Lucius, that kid… He tends to overthink, you know? As time passes, he’ll just become more sensitive,

so you ought to spend more time with him. Talk to him…” Delilah muttered.

Joan knew very well that most kids who grew up craving love tended to be like that, especially a

childlike Lucius who had been abandoned by his parents at a young age.

In fact, Joan did not expect that Larry would agree to attending the field trip so easily. After all, the

couple had their fair share of disputes, and Joan had not exactly explained to Larry why she had gone

to Caiden’s house.

 

 

Chapter 2094

“Mom, is Dad really coming?” Lucius doubted.

For so long, he had been well aware that Larry often seemed tired when he returned home. It could be

the workload weighing him down, so the boy did not want to take up his time.

“Don’t worry. Your father says he will, and he keeps his promises.” Joan patted Lucius on the shoulder.

But the boy would rather Larry sleep in…

Days passed, and soon the day for camping had arrived. Joan gave her instructions to the doctors and

nurses in the hospital before she left the place feeling a little relieved. At the same time, Larry was

anxiously reviewing documents in his office.

It was certainly a coincidence that, just when he was almost done with work, someone had to throw a

monkey wrench into his plans.

“Mr. Norton, there’s a call for you.” His assistant quickly passed him the phone.

“Good day, Mr. Norton. It’s like this. We have decided to withdraw the partnership with your

company…” The other party’s voice was quite firm, as though all countermeasures had been thought

out.

Why the sudden withdrawal? A fit of anger rose within Larry. He did not understand it. What have I

done wrong? Is there anything about the procedures that you aren’t satisfied with? I thought we’ve had

an agreement! Why, of all times, just when the contract’s about to be signed, have you decided to back

out?

“Mr. Lancaster, we’re about to sign the contract. It just doesn’t seem appropriate for you to tell me

something like that. You’ve actively sought partnership with us, haven’t you? And we willingly agreed,

because of your company’s credibility…” Larry dished out his discontent.

He had to admit, he certainly had high hopes for that foreign company in particular. It posed great

potential, and he had wanted to work with an enterprise like that. So when the director of the company

came to him about extending the partnership, he felt like he had hit the jackpot. Perhaps, in hindsight,

he got hit on the head too hard.

“Mr. Norton, please don’t take it up with me. It’s our boss. All of a sudden, he gave me an order, telling

me to call off the partnership with your company. I’m just following orders, sir. It’s not my decision to

make,” said the other party.

“But, you’re welcome to come and talk it over with our boss. It’s still possible to turn this around. The

boss seemed to be hesitating when he told me about it,” the director added.

Go abroad to talk it over? Again? Larry was not pleased at all. What about Lucius’ field trip? I’ve

promised Joan I’ll go camping with them. But… this project… I can’t pass this up!

“Mr. Norton, what do you want me to do? Shall I book a plane ticket for you?” His assistant looked on

anxiously, pending his answer.

This was a big project. It would be a shame if Larry gave it all up.

Larry crossed the room to stand in front of the window. He squinted as he took in the view outside. It

was all rather sad. Why is everything happening at the same time?

“Yes, please do that,” Larry said faintly.

“Mom, come on!” At school, Lucius shouted.

“Oh, my dear baby boy. Slow down, will you?” came the response.

“Mom, why isn’t Dad here yet?” Lucius stared at the road a short distance away, expecting Larry’s car

to appear anytime soon.

They waited long enough, but Larry failed to show up.

“Dad’s not coming, is he?” Lucius sounded disappointed.

At the same time, Larry was in a car heading towards the airport. The director had specifically told him

that their boss would be leaving tomorrow, so he only had one day’s time to negotiate on the project.

Bored by the scenery outside the window, Larry checked his watch. By the time he took out his phone,

he realized it had been switched off.

With no way of calling Joan to inform her of his last-minute situation, he was quickly overcome by

anxiety.

“Is everybody ready? Parents, students, can I see a show of hands?” the principal shouted on the

platform with a loudspeaker in hand.

“All here!” echoed the crowd.

Lucius was the only one hanging his head in silence. Joan could not bear to see the sad look on the

kid’s face. She fished out her phone and made a call.

 

 

Chapter 2095

“Sorry, the number you have dialed is unavailable…”

It was the same message, over and over again.

Larry! Where the hell are you at a time like this? You should be here by now! And now you’re not even

answering the phone! Joan stomped her feet in fury.

“What is it, Joan?” Suddenly, Caiden appeared before her.

Why is he here? How odd.

“Nothing. It’s just… Lucius and I are waiting for someone…” Joan smiled faintly.

You’re waiting for that scumbag Larry, aren’t you? I’m afraid he’s at the airport right now. Caiden

sneered.

“Next, let’s welcome Mr. Caiden Owens, the sponsor of this event, to come up and say a few words,”

the headmaster called out.

The crowd gave a round of applause.

You’re the sponsor? Joan looked at him in confusion. She found the turn of events somewhat

inconceivable.

Caiden merely put on a smile and made his way onto the platform.

“Oh, my. He’s quite handsome! And so young too!”

“How true. But it’s not meant to be. We’re already married.”

“Oh, come off it! I’m telling you, he’s a self-made tycoon. He built his empire from scratch…”

Nearby, some women gossiped among themselves.

Joan had never checked on Caiden’s history and background, for she had been sure that the two of

them would not meet again. Right then, it seemed she had made a formidable… friend. Whether he

was friend or foe remained to be determined.

“Dear parents, teachers, and students, good day, and nice to meet you all. I’m Caiden Owens…”

He delivered his speech in such a calm and collected manner. It seemed that he was not a stranger to

an event like the one they were having. Joan listened intently to his speech.

“Oh, Mr. Caiden. My husband’s on urgent business. He couldn’t make it. Could you perhaps join us on

our camping trip?”

“Oh, dear. Mine too…”

After Caiden was done with his speech, the site was filled with lively commotion.

Standing on the platform, he searched for Joan, and when he found his target, a mischievous smirk

curled up his lips.

“I must apologize, ladies. I’m already representing a student’s father on this camping trip. I really do

beg your pardon. Perhaps, another time…”

The crowd went crazy.

“Who can it be? I didn’t see him with a child just now, did you?”

“That’s what I thought. And a handsome man, too. What a shame.”

Caiden gradually stepped down from the platform and made his way to Joan. Confidently, he shrugged

his shoulders before he sought out Lucius.

“Would you like me to participate in this camping trip on behalf of your father?” Caiden held the child’s

hand.

Lucius looked at Caiden, then at Joan, and then surveyed his classmates around him. He felt

conflicted.

Children had their dignity to preserve too. Every child would have wanted their parents to come with

them on the field trip. Lucius had been looking forward to it too, but Larry failed to deliver.

“Mom?” Lucius tugged her arm, looking despondent.

Joan stared at Caiden in front of them, feeling equal parts surprised and guilty. She herself also

wondered whether Larry would come or not.

The man neither answered her calls nor replied to her messages. The field trip was about to begin. If

she rejected Caiden, and the event started without Larry or he ended up not coming at all, it would only

make Lucius feel worse.

“Caiden, do you mind if I make a call?” Joan asked.

She decided to give him one final call. If Larry did not pick this up, she would agree to Caiden’s

proposal, and the three of them would attend the field trip together.

“Of course not, Joan. I’ll support whatever you do.” Caiden slowly stood up.

He was well aware that she would surely call Larry, just as he was well aware that Larry would

definitely not answer the phone.

“Okay, Lucius. You wait over here with Caiden, alright? I have to make a phone call. Be right back,”

Joan told her son before she headed to a nearby fence and dialed Larry’s number.

 

Chapter 2096

“Sorry, the number you have dialed is unavailable…” Not surprisingly, Larry’s phone was still

unreachable. No matter how many times she tried to call him, nothing had changed.

What are you so busy with anyway? You’ve promised that you’d attend this camping trip with Lucius

and me! Now, look at you. Going back on your word like this and not even giving me a heads up. What

the hell is going on with you, Larry?

Joan was indeed furious. Everything about her screamed of rage.

This was the first time Larry broke his promise to her. It was also the first time she was disappointed in

him.

Joan lost count of how many phone calls she had made and yet none of those were picked up.

Frustrated, she switched off her phone as well and returned to where her son had been waiting for her.

“Lucius, listen. Your dad’s dealing with an urgent business right now, so he won’t be coming so soon.

What do you say we let Caiden take his place in the meantime, huh?” Joan gently stroked her son’s

hair as she delivered the bad news.

Sure enough, she could see a tinge of disappointment in his eyes.

“But Dad promised. How could he just break his word like that? Dad’s never like this before,” Lucius

uttered sadly.

Yes, that much was true. Larry was never like this before. But on that day, Joan could only wonder what

had happened for Larry to bail on them like that.

“That’s alright, Lucius. You have me. I’ll join you on this field trip, alright?” Caiden held the boy’s hand

tightly in an attempt to comfort him.

“Caiden, won’t we get in the way of your work?” Lucius lifted his head slightly and asked the man in all

seriousness.

Larry was a sensible child and never liked to trouble anyone. He would not even request his adopted

parents, Larry and Joan, for anything unless absolutely necessary.

“Of course not. As long as you need me, Lucius, I can come anytime.” Caiden gently patted the kid’s

shoulder.

What’s that supposed to mean? If I remember it right, I don’t think Caiden has met Lucius that many

times. The way he talks to Lucius though, why does it sound so weird? Joan tilted her head as she

sank into her thoughts.

Could the two of them be involved in something I don’t know about?

“Hey, Joan?” Caiden snapped his fingers in front of her.

“Ah? Um, what’s up?” Joan returned to her senses.

“Oh, nothing. You were staring off into space just now. Come on, the others have left without us,”

Caiden pointed to a group of people not far away.

“Okay then. We should go too. Here, Lucius, take my hand,” Joan smiled.

The few women in front kept stealing glances at Caiden who was walking behind them. They mumbled

among themselves. Lucius held onto Joan with one hand and Caiden with the other. The trio of them

seemed happy together. It was not wrong to say they were a picture of a perfect family.

“Caiden, thanks for accompanying me on the field trip today,” Lucius muttered out of the blue.

“There we go, Lucius. Whenever you need my help, all you have to do is ask.” Caiden smiled at the

boy.

“Alright, everyone, try to keep up. We’re almost there!” The headmaster shouted at the lot from the

front of the line.

The children were a happy bunch, and the parents were just as excited. Perhaps they had all been

waiting for this day since forever.

But no one knew that Caiden had deliberately arranged everything. He just wanted everyone to know

that his relationship with Joan was not an ordinary one, even if meant he might be misunderstood by

the majority.

“Caiden, why do you sponsor our school?” Lucius asked, all of a sudden.

It was actually a rather common and simple question for a child his age. When children got curious

about something in particular, they tend to say what was on their minds without putting in much

thought. But Caiden interpreted it differently and even doubted the boy’s motive.

“Well… that’s because I used to be a student here,” Caiden made up a lie.

That was not possible, of course. It had barely been ten years since the school was founded. He could

not have studied there. But Lucius and Joan did not know about that.

“Wow, that’s wonderful, Caiden! Awesome! When I grow up, I want to be just like you and sponsor our

school. What do you think, Mom?” Lucius tugged on Joan’s arm.

 

 

Chapter 2097

The whole time, Joan was completely lost in her thoughts. She kept wondering about the reasons why

Larry did not answer her calls and whatever he might be doing now. Could he have forgotten about the

field trip?

“Mom?” Lucius tugged on his mother again, a little forcefully this time.

“Ah? Yes, dear?” Joan said.

Oh, come on! Mom’s not even paying attention to me! Lucius hung his head low.

“Joan, Lucius says he wants to sponsor the school when he grows up.” Sensing the awkwardness

between the mother and son, Caiden casually smoothed the matter over.

Thank goodness you’re here, Caiden. Joan grinned.

“That’s wonderful, Lucius. I’ll always support you.” Joan solemnly observed the boy in front of her.

He was still a kid, after all. As long as he had support, Lucius would get all excited, especially with Joan

and Larry’s encouragement.

“Yes, Mom. You think so too, don’t you? Caiden’s really awesome…” Lucius exclaimed.

Caiden, who was listening from the side, could not believe his ears.

What an innocent and kind little boy! Perhaps this is how children from the villages turn out to be.

Simple and modest, with none of the pretense usually found in city kids. Gosh, I think I’m starting to like

this kid. Maybe, he’ll be able to help me out later on!

Soon, the teachers, the students, along with their parents arrived at the great outdoors. It did not look

particularly dangerous in any way, just a lot more bushes and shrubs. Under normal circumstances,

children were most afraid of the wild and unfamiliar, but they felt more courageous with their parents

around, and so they were actively willing to take on any task.

As it got darker, the headmaster motioned for them to stop. They had arrived at the site where they

would set up camp. They were relieved and put down their belongings.

“Alright, take a break, everyone. Let’s get down to cooking,” the headmaster bellowed excitedly.

All the kids cheered. Lighting a fire and cooking in a place like that seemed like a very dangerous thing

to do, but everyone worked together and managed to pull it off.

“Come, everyone. Sit down and have a chat. Parents, can you share with us how your children are

doing so far? Maybe talk about their dreams and plans for the future?” said the homeroom teacher,

hoping to start a conversation.

In less than five minutes, all students and their parents had gathered. Lucius stuck close to Joan and

Caiden. He was certainly an obedient child.

The homeroom teacher began, “Let me just say that there are some children who have been

performing exceptionally well in school. They do an excellent job with their homework, and they get

along very well with their classmates. Here, I’d like to commend them.”

The children straightened their backs as they listened to her. Lucius was also looking ahead

expectantly, awaiting his teacher’s revelation.

“There is one student in particular I’d like to specially draw attention to. His name is Lucius. As every

student here knows, he is the most hospitable one in class, and very hardworking as well. So, I’d like to

invite Lucius’ mother to say a few words,” the teacher announced.

There was a round of applause. The parents were excited, most likely because Caiden was sitting next

to the child. Who can resist someone like Caiden? He has the sophistication of a scholar!

“Come, now. Tell us, how do you look after Lucius at home?” The homeroom teacher threw a question

at Joan.

How shall I put it? Larry was the one, not her, who had been watching Lucius nowadays. Hence, she

was not familiar with whatever was going on with Lucius lately.

She spent all day in the hospital taking care of Ms. Young, so much so that she barely asked about

Lucius’ performance in school.

“First and foremost, I apologize. There’s a lot going on at home at the moment, so I’ve been neglecting

him a bit. His father’s been looking after him. I know, he’s my responsibility. But actually, Lucius has

always been a smart kid…” Joan spoke in a low voice.

 

Chapter 2098

She spoke of Lucius’ home life with passion and in detail.

She might not have participated in his past but, ever since adopting him, she remembered very clearly

every single moment they spent together. She recalled the way he did his homework, and when he

helped Ms. Young water her plants, helped Joan herself with the housework, laundry, among other

chores.

Sometimes, after she ended her shift at the supermarket and was so exhausted that she collapsed on

the sofa once she got home, Lucius would come over and massage her shoulders and back.

The parents around her listened very intently to her story. Even Caiden found himself attracted to

Joan’s tone and expressions.

“There you go. That’s our boy, Lucius. I’m always thankful to the heavens for granting me such a

wonderful child…” As her tale came to an end, a round of applause filled the air.

“Lucius really is a good kid…”

“I say, we really ought to learn from his mother…”

“I do agree. Look at him. He must have inherited good genes, with such a handsome father and a

good-looking mother. Both of them are so educated, well-mannered, and seem to have great parenting

skills. No wonder Lucius turns out so fine…”

“Nonsense! Mr. Caiden’s not the father. He’s just attending the field trip on behalf of Lucius’ real father.”

Another woman gently shoved the one in front of her for making the wrong assumption.

“Oh, my goodness! I’ve got it all wrong. I didn’t know.”

“Don’t worry about it. Next, let’s have Mr. Owens say a few words too, shall we?” The homeroom

teacher arranged for the next speaker.

Caiden raised his head slightly and smiled at the group. He did not come prepared with a speech. He

merely believed that no matter who the children lived with or where they stayed, happiness should take

priority.

“Lucius, tell me. Are you happy?” Caiden patted the child on the back.

Lucius was stunned for a moment as he glanced at the man, and then quickly composed himself.

“Yes. I’m very happy,” Lucius answered without missing a beat.

Caiden turned away to look at the adults at the campsite.

“It’s just like what Lucius said. As long as he’s happy, that’s more than enough. To the children, it

doesn’t matter who attended the field trip with them, whether it be their parents or other relatives. And it

doesn’t matter how the trip starts and when it’ll end. As long as they’re happy, I suppose we’ve

achieved our goal…”

A round of applause came from the crowd before Caiden even finished.

Although the field trip was a product of Caiden’s selfish intentions, he truly meant what he said.

In the past, he did not like kids very much. In fact, one might even say that he hated them, absolutely

abhorred them, because he thought of children as a menace. They would cry and cause trouble for no

reason at all. And then it would be the parents or teachers who would have to clean up their mess. Now

that he thought about it, it was exactly those experiences that allowed the children to gradually learn

and grow into the adults they would one day become. Moreover, that was how he himself came to be.

What excuse did he have to feel disdain or contempt towards them?

“So, please, I implore you. Take good care of your children, especially when it comes to morals. You’ll

always be your child’s first teacher…”

He spoke in a formal manner, his delivery no different from that of the headmaster, and with the air of a

wise scholar.

“As expected of a college graduate! He’s so classy even when he speaks!”

“Yes, he’s brilliant…”

Some parents, filled with admiration and envy, had begun to talk about Caiden among themselves.

The so-called “chat” went on for some more time after that. It was only over after the headmaster gave

his final statement.

“Alright, everyone! Bear in mind, safety first. Every family gets a tent. Students, you’ll be helping your

parents to set them up…”

It was then that Joan had an epiphany. Oh my gosh! One tent? How are we supposed to sleep?

Sharing a tent with Lucius is fine, of course, but Caiden? Why, if that gets out, we’ll be the talk of the

town!

 

Chapter 2099

“Um, Caiden…” Joan approached him.

“You two can sleep in the tent. I’ll stay out here.”

Caiden’s statement surprised Joan. She never thought he would say something like that.

“Mom, are we really leaving Caiden outside?” Lucius asked Joan.

Indeed, in the wild, there would be an awful lot of bugs. Even if Joan really wanted to get some sleep,

she doubted the bugs would let her. Joan was a little concerned about Caiden, but she threw her

worries out the window at the thought of Larry. Caiden would just have to put up with the long night.

“Very well then.” Joan glanced at the man, her guilty conscience getting in the way of her judgment.

Caiden knew that would happen, but instead of waiting for her to say it, it would be better if he brought

it up himself. It might even give her a good impression of him.

“Mom, why don’t we let Caiden get in the tent too? It’s going to be windy and cold at night, with

mosquitoes and other bugs,” Lucius was practically pleading.

Children had a lot less to consider. Lucius simply did not want Caiden to get hurt or stung because of

him, or he would feel guilty. He did not think about the stuff that happened between adults.

Joan looked from Lucius to Caiden. Conflict was eating her up inside.

“Lucius, he’s not your father. He can’t sleep with us.” Joan stroked his head.

But he attended the field trip in Dad’s place, didn’t he? The boy had a displeased look on his face.

“But Mom, I don’t want anything to happen to Caiden because of this.” Lucius lowered his head.

Joan did not like seeing Lucius like that. Perhaps, she could call Larry and inform him about things, so

that if news about it got out, at least he was kept in the loop. And so, Joan fished out her phone and

called Larry.

Unfortunately, Larry’s phone remained unreachable.

Joan was beyond infuriated.

It’s been a whole day, Larry! What is up with you? Does this family even mean anything to you? Fury

flashed across her gaze.

“Fine, Caiden. Get in here,” Joan called out to him.

She was probably so upset about it that she commanded without much hesitation. When Caiden, who

was still lingering outside, heard Joan, he obviously wanted to know what made her change her mind,

while a mischievous grin crept up his lips.

“What is it?” Caiden said, almost a whisper.

Joan recalled how rude she had been a while ago and intended to apologize to Caiden when Lucius

beat her to it.

“Caiden, Mom says you can come into the tent. Come on, hurry up,” said the boy.

Joan was rendered speechless and resigned by her son’s urgency.

Whatever. It’s just one night. Lucius will be sleeping between us anyway. Nothing’s going to happen.

“Joan, are you sure about this?” Caiden exercised caution in his query.

Of course he would confirm with Joan first, though he would not do anything impermissible. Some

relationships should be pursued slowly and gently, especially when the other party was a married

woman like Joan.

“Yes,” Joan replied in a callous tone.

She sounded somewhat unwilling. Caiden could make out that much. But since she had given her

consent, that meant there was still hope for him. He believed that hard work would eventually be

rewarded, even if he would not be able to reap the rewards directly. But he was willing to wait until Joan

could stand by his side.

Caiden entered the tent.

It was not very large, just enough to fit three people. As expected, Lucius would sleep in the center,

while Joan and Caiden would sleep on either side of the kid. It seemed fair.

The three of them lay down to rest for the night, but their eyes remained open without a hint of

drowsiness.

 

 

Chapter 2100

Joan lay on her side, her mind occupied by thoughts about Larry. Lucius lay flat, thinking about either

Delilah or Larry. As for Caiden, he thought only of Joan’s pretty face. All three of them had their own

worries but were reluctant to voice them out.

“Mom, where do you think Dad is right now?” asked Lucius suddenly.

Joan froze for a second, turned over to face the boy, and regarded him solemnly.

“Dad has a lot of things to settle in the company, so he can’t join us on the field trip, but he swears he

won’t miss the next one.” Joan held Lucius’s hand, her expression a sincere one.

Is that right? But Mom isn’t even sure whether Dad will come or not, or when he’ll show up. Dad hasn’t

been answering her calls either. So how does Mom know that Dad is busy at work? Lucius’ eyes

dimmed as he kept his thoughts to himself.

“Lucius, I’d like you to know that it’s your father who asked me to come,” Caiden spoke. Lucius’ eyes lit

up.

“Is that true, Caiden? Do you know where Dad is?” Lucius turned over and asked him excitedly.

Of course that was all a lie. Caiden just did not want to upset the kid. He could tell that Joan adored

Lucius very much.

Joan was surprised to hear him say that. She could not understand why Caiden would cover for her.

Under normal circumstances, it would take a lot of courage to attend a family event on behalf of

another person’s spouse or parent. Not only had Caiden assumed the role, he welcomed it with delight.

He even helped smooth over Larry’s absence.

“Of course it is, Lucius. Your father has several big projects coming up, so he’s much busier than usual.

So, please don’t blame him, alright?” Caiden said as he pinched Lucius on the cheek.

Lucius was overjoyed to hear that.

So Dad didn’t really forget. Something came up and he couldn’t make it, so he asked Caiden to take

his place.

“Mom, did you hear that? Dad didn’t forget about today!” Lucius gently tugged at Joan’s arm.

It was all quite awkward for Joan, but she forced a smile.

“Alright, Lucius. Let’s get some sleep. It’s getting late. We have plenty to do tomorrow,” Joan coaxed

her child.

“Okay. Goodnight, Mom. Goodnight, Caiden.” Very soon, Lucius closed his eyes.

Caiden glanced at Joan on the other side, a swell of emotions surging within him. But Joan did not

notice that. She pulled the covers over Lucius before turning her back away.

Joan, when will you notice my feelings for you? Caiden sighed.

Joan caught that sigh, and was quickly overcome with guilt.

The next day, the sun rose early. Perhaps everyone had been too exhausted from the previous day’s

events, so no one got up on time.

In the tent, Lucius still lay at the center, but sometime in the middle of the night his body had slid to a

lower position, while above him Joan and Caiden faced each other as they slept on, albeit no sign of

intimacy whatsoever.

“Um, Mom, time to wake up,” Lucius called her, his eyes barely open.

Roused by the child’s voice, the adults slowly opened their eyes, only to realize that they were

apparently laying less than one centimeter apart from each other.

“Joan, I’m sorry about that.” Caiden rolled over and sat up.

“It’s nothing,” Joan muttered.

When they exited the tent, there were already a few others moving about.

Soon, the rest of the campers awoke one after another.

“Oh, morning, Mr. Caiden. Where did you sleep last night?” One of the students’ parents approached

him.

Joan stood off at the side, appearing rather awkward.

Why’s she asking such a stupid question? It shouldn’t matter where Caiden slept last night. Who cares

if he spent the night inside or outside the tent? It’s totally a non-issue!