Ch. 2461..2470

Chapter 2461

“Hold on! This is a matter of life and death, so it’s not something to be done so hastily!” the butler

shouted at the top of his lungs.

He knew that Keith was of unsound mind on occasion, and that was why he had to stay by his side at

all times. Keith himself was well aware of that, but he retained no awareness once it happened.

“Get ahold of yourself, Mr. Owens!” the butler urged anxiously.

However, there wasn’t any response from the man. Meanwhile, Joan was stumped at everything that

was transpiring right in front of her eyes.

She had no idea what these people were trying to pull, nor did she have the slightest inkling that

Caiden’s father had a mental disorder.

“Hold on first. Don’t do anything reckless,” the butler said to the few young men before him.

After an indeterminate time had passed, Keith finally snapped back to his senses.

“What happened? Why are you all looking at me?” he abruptly demanded in a voice threaded with

displeasure.

“Why are you here, Ms. Watts? And what are the lot of you doing? Let go of her! Who allowed you to

treat her with such disrespect? Hurry up and let her go!” he then barked at the few young men.

At that moment, Joan was entirely stunned. What’s with the one-eighty change? Does he think this is

playacting? Her gaze remained locked on the man in front of her as she tried to decipher something

from his face.

The few young men, on the other hand, glanced at each other before they released their hold on her at

long last.

“I’m really sorry about that, Ms. Watts. Please pardon the ordeal you’ve been through. Mr. Owens is up

in years, so his mind gets fuzzy at times…” the butler hastily rushed over and explained in a whisper.

He was the only person who knew about Keith’s mental instability. In fact, even Caiden and his mother

weren’t aware of it.

“Also, please keep this a secret since it concerns the reputation of the Owens family,” the butler

continued.

At last, understanding dawned upon Joan, and she suddenly pitied Keith.

“Sure, I got it. Don’t worry, for I’ll never tell anyone about this,” she avowed.

After her traumatic experience with the unpredictable Keith, she then returned home helplessly. “What

happened?” Delilah asked warily as she studied her.

“Nothing. Everything’s fine, Ms. Young. It was just a misunderstanding,” Joan replied at once, grasping

her petite hands.

But I definitely saw that man! Still feeling a tad suspicious, Delilah stared at her in puzzlement.

“Answer me honestly, Joan Watts. Did Caiden Owens’ father threaten you?” she questioned.

“No, Ms. Young. He just invited me for a meal, and that’s the honest truth. You can go and ask him if

you don’t believe me,” Joan asserted.

Seeing that she was calm and unruffled, Delilah didn’t pursue the matter further.

Ah, it doesn’t matter as long as she’s safe and sound! After exchanging a few words with her, Delilah

then left the house.

Meanwhile, Larry had been investigating the truth of the matter abroad. He couldn’t tell Joan the truth,

nor could he reveal the slightest information about him to anyone.

“I really appreciate all that you’ve done, Mr. Norton,” Malcolm murmured with slight embarrassment.

“It’s nothing, Mr. Lancaster. I believe in you, and I also trust that you’ll definitely make a comeback.

Don’t worry, for I’ll help you to the best of my ability regardless of the results,” Larry declared resolutely.

That was the so-called friendship between men. Despite the huge age gap between the two of them,

Malcolm never treated Larry like a kid.

After all, loyalty had always been a priority for men.

“What’s going on with Matthew? He must be wooing those on the board of directors now in a bid to

usurp my position, no?” Malcolm reckoned with narrowed eyes as he took a puff of his cigarette.

“According to the results of my investigation, he has started making his move. However, it seems that

he’s running into some problems, so he’s attempting to buy their shares,” Larry replied.

Ah, he’s truly a sly and treacherous man! Malcolm heaved a sigh. Well, as expected of my biological

brother!

“But why is he doing this to you when he’s your biological brother, Mr. Lancaster?” Larry queried as he

looked at the man before him in bafflement.

Chapter 2462

Although biological brothers had their difference as well, it was only natural for them to help each other

out during critical times. Thus, Larry truly couldn’t figure out why Malcolm and his brother ended up as

enemies.

“Because our father chose me as his heir back then,” Malcolm answered helplessly.

At the mention of the past, it was actually no different from the typical plot of a family conflict.

True to form, the elder son was diligent and worked hard, so all employees in the company naturally

looked up to him. Conversely, the younger son spent all his time cavorting and creating trouble outside,

so the father pinned all his hopes on the elder son. That was all to it. Malcolm was the elder son, while

Matthew was the younger son.

In truth, it was par for course in a prominent family that whoever was more capable and outstanding

would hold the reins of the family. However, Matthew was inclined toward trickery and malice, so he

focused all his energy and attention on dealing with Malcolm. What a shame!

“I didn’t know that there was such a problem within your family. In that case, your life must have been

tiring in the past few years,” Larry remarked.

The two of them had already regarded each other as good friends, so they naturally forwent all the

formalities of the past.

“It was indeed rather tiring. On my father’s deathbed, he exhorted me to teach and discipline my

brother, but I really can’t manage it. I truly can’t think of any method to steer him back to the right path.

Moreover, he has always been averse to me…”

Malcolm appeared helpless as he spoke, and that surprised Larry.

I never thought that eminent figures who seem to outshine everyone else would actually have such a

bitter history behind them. Sighing, Larry shook his head.

“What about you? I heard that things weren’t going well between you and your wife some time ago,”

Malcolm blurted out of the blue.

Speaking of Joan, Larry was plagued with yearning and guilt.

He had been busy with work and career recently, so he hadn’t much time to care about her. Besides,

he was also afraid of hearing her say that she missed him…

“Yeah, but it’s all in the past now. It was merely a trivial matter,” Larry admitted candidly.

“Although I’ve never met your wife, Larry, you must remember that the woman who has been with you

from the very beginning is the woman who loves you,” Malcolm asserted emphatically while patting him

hard on the shoulder, his voice tinged with a hint of regret.

Hmm… Perhaps he has experienced something of that sort! Nonetheless, Larry didn’t comment on

that, for he knew that Joan was it for him in this lifetime.

Bang! All of a sudden, the door was forcefully kicked open.

“Ah, I’ve been looking for you for a long time, my dearest brother. Unexpectedly, you’ve been hiding out

here.”

In the next moment, a familiar, frigid voice drifted over.

“What are you doing?” Larry sprang to his feet and moved in front of Malcolm at once.

Bam! Larry was suddenly shoved aside viciously by Malcolm.

“How many times have I told you that I’ve got no money, you scoundrel? Get lost!” Malcolm lambasted

as he pointed at Larry a near distance away.

All at once, Larry was dumbfounded. He couldn’t figure out what exactly happened that Malcolm had

now changed his tune so drastically in the blink of an eye.

“This young man is here to discuss business with me. He doesn’t know anything about the conflict

between us, so let him go,” Malcolm urged right on the heels of his admonishment.

Upon hearing that, Larry instantly understood that he was trying to save him.

Just when he was about to argue and stand with Malcolm, a thought abruptly flashed across his mind.

It’s better if I remain free so that I can help him!

“Well? Do you want to stay or leave?” Matthew demanded loudly as he swaggered over to Larry and

kicked him several times.

Argh! How dare he kick me! Does he know who I am?

“I’m leaving. The conflict between the two of you has nothing to do with me,” Larry mumbled weakly as

he clutched his chest.

“Really? So, did you see everything that happened today?” As Matthew asked that, he snagged the

whip at the side and swung it hard at the man on the ground.

“I didn’t see anything!” Larry answered in a near shout.

Chapter 2463

Meanwhile, guilt swamped Malcolm as he watched the man in front of him being beaten to a pulp.

I’m sorry, Larry! His hands clenched tight, and a trace of anguish crept into his eyes.

“Good! Scram!” As Matthew said that, he again gave him a lethal kick.

Subsequently, Larry slowly staggered up while trying to compose himself. He cast a glance at Malcolm

at the side, but he then walked out without saying anything.

Perchance because he had sustained too many injuries, he collapsed by the roadside shortly after.

When he woke up, he was lying on a hospital bed in the hospital.

“You’re awake? Are you thirsty? Would you like to have some water?” a young lady anxiously asked

beside him.

“Who are you? And why am I here?” Larry mumbled.

His questions startled the woman beside him.

“Uh… Well, you passed out by the roadside earlier,” the woman explained.

Hearing that, the man on the hospital bed massaged his temples in an attempt to clear his mind.

Hmm… That’s right. I’m in the hospital now. In the next second, he recalled everything that had

happened just now. Oh God, I’ve got to lodge a police report and save Mr. Lancaster!

Without an ounce of hesitation, he got out of bed. Slipping on his shoes, he then made to sprint out of

the hospital room.

“Where are you going?” the woman screeched as she grabbed his arm tightly, her face a mask of

worry.

“I’ve got an important matter to handle.” As Larry spoke, he pulled away from her.

“Don’t panic first. You can tell me if you’ve got a problem. I’ll help you, so don’t worry. As long as you

tell me what it is, I’ll definitely do my best to resolve it for you. Therefore, you only need to lie back on

the bed and rest,” the woman declared firmly. Then, she forcefully pushed him onto the bed.

At that very moment, Larry was completely drained of energy, his only thought to save Malcolm.

“First and foremost, I’m very thankful for your help, miss. But I really have an urgent matter to attend to,

so please excuse me.”

“Stay right there!” the woman snapped as she pressed him down hard.

Surprisingly, the moment she laid eyes on Larry, she fell in love with him. Perhaps it was the so-called

love at first sight?

In the past, she had never considered love or marriage, but when she met this man, she knew that she

had fallen deeply to the point of no return. Larry didn’t do anything at all, yet she simply fell in love with

him.

“I’ll repeat this another time— tell me the urgent matter you’re speaking of, and I’ll resolve it for you,”

the woman murmured as she placed her index finger at his lips.

“Miss, we’re strangers, so I hope you can have some self-respect. Besides, my affairs are none of your

business,” Larry stated coldly.

In the course of his entire life, the one thing he abhorred most was people getting overly familiar with

him.

“Hmm? You’re miffed? I just wanted to help you out,” the woman muttered. Turning around, she then

sat on the sofa with a regal demeanor.

“I don’t need it,” Larry countered bluntly.

Few people were aware of Malcolm being sabotaged, and they were secretly investigating the truth of

the matter, so he couldn’t simply tell someone else about it.

“So, your name is Larry Norton, huh?” the woman inquired out of the blue.

How did she know that? Larry eyed the woman in front of him suspiciously, his gaze threaded with a

hint of curiosity.

“Here!” The woman tossed Larry’s identification card, which she held in her hand, to him.

“You probably came here for business, yes?” she then asked, fiddling with her fingers.

After all, people dressed like him are generally illustrious characters such as company presidents. Her

lips curved into an approving smile at that thought. In that sense, he makes a good match for me.

“You’re asking too many questions,” Larry growled before turning away with awkwardness written on

his face.

“And the matter is extremely troublesome, yes? Larry, you’re not a local, so you’ll naturally need help to

deal with a matter here. Am I not right?” the woman pressed.

She was indeed right, and her words were also aimed specifically at him, yet Larry still didn’t feel like

working with her.

 

Chapter 2464

“I can handle it by myself,” Larry insisted.

“Then, tell me how you’re going to resolve the problem. You can barely save yourself now, okay? Don’t

tell me you’re planning to lodge a police report? Considering your intellect, I think you can tell that the

police are merely for show without any practical use.”

That remark of hers snagged Larry’s attention.

She’s right in that the police are usually not of much use, but I’m unfamiliar with this place, so what else

can I do besides lodging a police report?

“Isn’t it good if I resolve it for you?” the woman questioned.

“Why do you want to help me?” Larry demanded bluntly. I’m not going to simply accept help from any

Tom, Dick, and Harry without delving further into the possible motives!

“Because I like you.”

That single utterance had the eyes of the man in front of her widening even as disdain manifested on

his face.

What the hell is happening here? Even in a different country, an unknown woman has fallen in love with

me? This must be a dream, yes? Larry immediately thumped his head and pinched his thigh with all his

might.

“Ow…” Alas, pain assailed him. Oh God, this is no dream! Rather, it’s reality!

“Go and help someone else. I don’t need your help,” he promptly blurted as he waved a dismissive

hand at her.

I’m married, okay? Strictly speaking, while Joan and I haven’t remarried yet, it’s only a matter of time.

Besides, I’ll never betray her!

Slowly sashaying toward him, the woman then leaned in close to his ear. “Why, don’t you like me?” she

asked in a whisper.

Hah! Not only do I not like you, but I’m actually repulsed by you, okay? Larry merely threw her a look

without answering her, which in turn conveyed his tacit acquiescence.

“It’s okay. Feelings develop over time, anyway. It’s enough that I like you,” the woman proclaimed

confidently.

Jeez, who exactly is she that she has so much confidence to make such a brazen declaration?

“Alright, you go ahead and rest. I’ll go and get some medicine for you. Oh yes, don’t attempt to escape

from this room since there are several bodyguards stationed at the door.” As the woman said that, she

strode away, her platform heels clicking against the floor.

Ugh! This woman is simply crazy! She couldn’t have failed to discern my stance, could she? Larry

frowned slightly as he stared at the retreating back.

After some time had passed, he glanced at his watch. She has probably gone far enough, yes? He

then quietly crept out of bed and slipped on his shoes before slowly inching to the door. But the

moment he opened the door, he was again taken aback.

“Is there something you need, Mr. Norton?” one of the bodyguards inquired in a low voice while bowing

to him.

Larry could tell that he was trained at a single glance, so he merely shook his head with a bitter smile

and closed the door.

Damn it all to hell! It looks like I’ve been confined this time! Subsequently, he raced over to the window,

only to see that he was on an upper floor. Argh! If I were to jump out, I’d definitely end up splattered on

the sidewalk!

“Why, are you contemplating jumping out?” the woman questioned disdainfully as she walked in.

She had anticipated that he wouldn’t simply listen to her, so she had taken all precautions from the very

beginning itself.

“What exactly is the meaning of this?” Larry snarled, his expression vicious.

“Nothing much. I just want you to rest. That’s all,” the woman replied.

“I don’t know you, so please let me out of here. Otherwise, I’m going to sue you for kidnapping!” Larry

snapped.

All at once, the woman before him burst into laughter. Haha, I don’t fear anyone or anything in this

world!

“You can try it, and we shall see whether the police will believe me or you.”

Suddenly, she found him really amusing. No one had ever dared to speak to me in such a manner.

Well, he’s the first.

Meanwhile, Larry was indeed too weak at that time, so he couldn’t quite handle her aggressive attitude.

Ah well, I’ll just rest for a while. Lying down on the hospital bed, he slowly closed his eyes.

What’s with him now? Is he tired? Or is he sad? Mystified, the woman stared intently at the man who

was lying on the hospital bed.

Chapter 2465

“Are you okay?” the woman asked as she touched Larry’s forehead.

“Don’t touch me!” Larry bellowed all of a sudden. Other than Joan, I’ll never allow any other woman to

touch me for the rest of my life!

“Why are you so fierce to me? It’s not like I bite!” the woman retorted vehemently.

“Stay away from me!” Larry thundered.

Why is he so hot-tempered? This won’t do. I’ve got to tame him. Otherwise, he’ll be stepping all over

me every day after we get married!

“So, what’s your decision, Larry? Do you want me to help you? I’ve always been a very efficient

person,” the woman deliberately enticed. “Oh yes, I haven’t even introduced myself after such a long

time. I’m Della Duff,” the woman said while extending her right hand.

In response, Larry twisted his head to the side and gazed out the window, ignoring her altogether.

Ugh! Why is she so annoying! At that very moment, ire suffused him. Wait… That sounds very familiar.

Did she say she’s Della Duff?

In a flash, his head snapped back, and he stared at the woman in front of him with a dubious gaze.

Ah, he has finally gotten it! A satisfied smile played on the woman’s lips. I just knew that few in this

world don’t know me, Della Duff!

“What did you just say?” Larry queried in a slightly diffident voice.

“I’m Della Duff. Why, is there a problem? Of course, you can voice it out,” the woman drawled with a

chuckle.

Della Duff was the daughter of the wealthiest man in the world, and she received top-notch education

since young. Even when she was still attending school, she had already started her own business.

Without any help from her father, she managed to propel the company she established to the top ten in

the world in a mere three years.

Hmm… I never thought that I’d actually meet such a formidable character here.

“Well, let’s hear it. What questions do you have?” the woman asked, cutting straight to the chase.

If she’s really Della Duff, it’s a good idea to ask for her help. After all, everyone knows that she never

bows to any power but always remains true to herself.

“So, will you tell me your problem now?” the woman repeated.

Of course! That’s a no-brainer, after all. If she’s Della Duff, there’s hope for Mr. Lancaster. However,

empty talk doesn’t prove that she’s truly who she claims to be.

Larry’s brows creased deeply as doubt stained his expression.

Della’s forte ever since young was reading people’s expressions, so she naturally knew his concerns.

Thus, she took her identification card out of her handbag and flicked it to the man on the hospital bed.

Sure enough, she’s Della Duff! Elation inundated Larry at once. But at the same time, he was also a

tad worried.

What if she really took a fancy to me? My heart is already chock-full of Joan, so there’s no space for

any other woman.

“Ms. Duff, I apologize for having been rude to you earlier.” He instantly apologized while appearing a

touch embarrassed.

Well, well… That’s quite a drastic change of attitude, but it’s good that he has the guts to admit to his

mistakes.

“It’s okay since I didn’t tell you my identity earlier. So, will you now tell me what exactly your urgent

matter is? As I said, I’ll help you resolve it,” Della stated plainly.

Yes, that was what she said, and it’s indeed the smart thing to do, but I don’t want to owe her a favor!

Ah, never mind! It’s a matter of life and death, so I’ll just deal with it after having saved Mr. Lancaster!

“The thing is, Ms. Duff, I have a business partner who is now in a bit of a bind…” Larry explained in a

low voice, his demeanor exceedingly solemn.

In an instant, the woman understood everything.

“It’s just a paltry matter, yet you ended up in such a sorry state? From what I know, you’re an incredibly

domineering and ruthless president, Mr. Norton,” Della deliberately taunted him.

This was just an accident, okay? At her dig, Larry dipped his head as mortification flashed across his

eyes.

“Alright, you don’t need to bother about this anymore. I’ll deal with it.” As Della spoke, she strode out of

the hospital room.

Chapter 2466

“Wait a minute, Ms. Duff! Mr. Lancaster is in an extremely precarious situation now, so please take

immediate action,” Larry urged anxiously.

He was truly afraid that Matthew would hurt Malcolm even though they were biological brothers.

“You’re quite loyal,” the woman commented. Then, she left.

You must hang on, Mr. Lancaster! Larry prayed as he gazed out at the sky outside.

But little did he know that a catastrophe awaited him.

“What? Ms. Duff is coming? Why would she do so? And did she tell you the purpose of her visit?”

Matthew demanded anxiously in the office as terror rushed through his veins.

“I have no idea why. Ms. Duff has never involved herself in such matters in the past, and it’s also the

first time she has ever visited. I can’t shake off the feeling that something bad is going to happen,” his

assistant quickly replied.

“Buzz off!” Matthew abruptly roared. “You’re such a useless piece of trash! Why am I paying the lot of

you? You know nothing, merely bragging every day…”

Outside the office, none of the employees dared make a single sound, all burying their heads in their

own work.

“When is she coming?” Matthew snarled.

“This afternoon,” the assistant answered.

Why the hell is that damn woman coming over at this time when she never had any collaboration with

this company? The man rubbed his hands vigorously, apprehension engulfing him.

“Alright, here’s what we’ll do. When she comes in the afternoon, just say that I’m not in,” Matthew

ordered.

“But she has made an appointment in advance,” the assistant instantly countered.

Damn it! The receptionist is also useless! Why didn’t she ascertain who the hell was making the

appointment before confirming it?

“Actually, it’s not a bad thing to meet her, Mr. Matthew. Della Duff is a globally-renowned entrepreneur,

so it’s truly an honor to meet her, although her visit this time may not be a good thing,” the assistant

reminded him.

Why on earth is everything going haywire recently, with each problem worse than the last?

Bang! The man slammed his hand on the table. A ruthless aura emanated from him, yet he was also

powerless at that moment.

“If you really don’t want to meet her, we can put her off,” the assistant added.

He’s the boss right now, so I have no say in whatever he wants to say or do.

“Of course, I’m meeting her! Why wouldn’t I do so? I must meet her!” Matthew answered resolutely.

I simply want to see what that so-called Ms. Duff is up to!

“Go and straighten things out in preparation to receive her!”

“Oh, you’re here, Ms. Duff? Please have a seat!” Matthew greeted Della while stepping forward to

welcome her.

Upon seeing his reverent demeanor, the assistant was astonished. He was grumbling about her arrival

in the morning, so why is he suddenly so enthusiastic now? Ha! It turns out that even men are prone to

fickleness! Also, it only takes a matter of mere seconds for a man to change his tune!

“I wonder why you graced us with your presence here, Ms. Duff?” Matthew inquired gently as he

poured her a cup of tea, seemingly afraid to offend her.

“If my memory serves, you’re not the owner of this company. I’m sorry, but I’ll only speak to the owner,”

Della murmured after taking a sip of tea.

What a b*tch! It’s just a chat, yet she’s picky about the person she wants to talk to? What’s her

problem?

“I’m sorry, Ms. Duff, but my brother is currently away. Um… He has gone on a vacation, so it might be a

long time before he returns,” Matthew immediately fibbed.

However, from his expression and reaction alone, Della could tell that the man in front of her was

definitely lying even if Larry hadn’t told her everything about the two brothers.

“In that case, I’ll just get straight to the point. I want to acquire the company or collaborate on a project.

However, my final decision hinges on my talk with the owner in person,” she declared.

In reality, she had no interest in such a company. If it weren’t for Larry’s request, she wouldn’t even

have set foot in this place.

Chapter 2467

Nonetheless, Della’s words shocked Matthew greatly. After all, everyone in the world knew that she

was a single-minded person. She could acquire any company or drive the development of a certain

company through collaboration. As for whether it would be for good or otherwise, it all hinged on her

mood.

“I’ll be honest with you, Ms. Duff. We’ve never aired our dirty laundry in public, but my brother is sick

and has been receiving treatment. So, your consideration is very much appreciated. Whatever it is, you

can just speak to me,” Matthew asserted in a low voice after having straightened his clothes and

shoulders.

Hah! What’s the use of speaking to him? He’s not the person I want to meet! What a joke! Furthermore,

it’s obvious at a single glance that he’s an entirely unreliable man. He certainly doesn’t have many

aspirations in life, not to mention career-wise!

Indeed, that was the truth. Otherwise, he would have made something of himself ages ago.

“No, that’s not acceptable. I’ll repeat it once more—I’ll only discuss this matter with Mr. Lancaster.

Otherwise, I’ll simply proceed with an acquisition.” As Della said that, she got up to leave.

No, I can’t allow that to happen! How could the company that I’ve finally liberated fall into some other

woman’s hands?

“Don’t make any hasty decisions first, Ms. Duff. Look, we’re discussing this matter right now, aren’t we?

Let’s take it easy, okay?” Matthew hastily blurted.

Ugh! Why am I so unlucky these days that the people I meet are more unreasonable as they come?

“I don’t want to waste my time with you, so just call me when your brother has recovered. If I don’t see

him within three days, I’ll proceed with the acquisition.” As Della said that, she strode out of the office.

Argh! How could this shameless b*tch be so cocky? What’s the big deal about having a rich father?

Behind her, Matthew gritted his teeth as his expression contorted into a mask of rage.

“What should we do now?” the assistant mumbled beside him.

“What else can we do other than playing along with her?” Matthew retorted irately.

I simply don’t understand how that damn man got acquainted with Ms. Duff that she’s adamant to talk

business with him alone!

After leaving the office, Della went straight back to the hospital.

In the hospital room, Larry remained lying on the hospital bed. Bored, he flipped through a magazine

absent-mindedly.

I wonder how Mr. Lancaster is doing right now and whether Ms. Duff can resolve this problem. Will

Matthew really relent and let Mr. Lancaster go? Anxiousness brew within him.

All of a sudden, his cell phone on the table at the side started ringing. He initially thought that it was

Della, but when he picked up the cell phone, he saw that it was a call from Joan.

At that, he abruptly remembered that he hadn’t phoned her in a long time. All at once, sheer guilt

assailed him.

“Are you okay recently, Larry?” Joan asked worriedly.

“I’m fine, so don’t worry. I’m just rather busy these days,” Larry hastily answered.

“Oh, I see. You haven’t called in a long time, so Ms. Young was worried that something had happened

and asked me to phone you…” Joan murmured hesitantly.

“Hey, don’t use me as an excuse, Joan Watts! The truth is, you’re missing him, so stop making

excuses!” Delilah hollered from the kitchen.

“Don’t put words in my mouth, Ms. Young!” Joan countered shyly.

At that very moment, a wealth of warmth imbued Larry, and his mood instantly brightened significantly.

“Why, don’t you miss me?” he suddenly queried.

“Of course, I do. How could I possibly not? I miss you every day, and I even dream of you!” Joan

hurriedly admitted in a frantic voice. In the next moment, she went silent, perchance having realized

that she was too brazen.

Hearing that, Larry’s lips curved into a gratified smile.

Perhaps she’s the only woman who can really comfort me in this world.

“I miss you, too. I miss you so, so much,” Larry murmured.

All at once, Joan was touched. It’s enough as long as he still keeps me in mind.

“How are things going for you over there? Are there any beautiful ladies parading themselves around

you?” she questioned sheepishly.

Chapter 2468

Well, there is, but I find it really irritating!

“What are you going on about? You’re the only one I love,” Larry assured.

“Who are you talking to?” Della demanded in a booming voice as she walked in out of the blue.

Hmm? Why is there a woman’s voice? Unease flooding her, Joan stared at the cell phone in her hand

suspiciously.

“Hello? Where are you now, Larry?” she inquired.

“I’m handling some matters outside. I’ll be hanging up, okay? I’ve still got some things to do.” After

saying that, Lary hung up the phone.

“Hello, Larry? Hello?”

“What’s wrong? Did something happen?” Delilah questioned in concern while instantly rushing over.

“Huh? No, everything’s fine,” Joan replied softly.

Who exactly is that woman earlier? She didn’t sound familiar at all, so I probably don’t know her. Tilting

her head, she plunged into deep contemplation as she gazed at the moon outside. God, I should’ve

agreed to remarry him back then! Look what happened now! Everyone knows that he’s currently single,

so there must be tons of women eyeing him!

At that very moment, regret swamped her.

“Was it a woman?” Della asked without shying away.

“How did it go?” Larry queried in a low voice, deliberately changing the subject.

“Answer my question first. Who was on the phone with you earlier?” Della demanded brashly, making it

obvious that she was peeved.

“It was my wife,” Larry answered, loud and clear.

There’s nothing to hide. I love Joan, and she’s my only wife in this lifetime! As for Della, I can merely

regard her as a close business partner or friend.

“You’re married? That’s impossible! As far as I know, you’re divorced,” Della mumbled as she slowly

walked over to the sofa and sat down.

I’ve already investigated every single detail about him. I know when he started dating, who he dated, as

well as when he got married and divorced like the back of my hand!

“Yes, I’m indeed divorced now. However, my ex-wife and I are going to remarry very soon,” Larry

admitted.

His reply was exceedingly honest and resolute, so much so that a sense of defeat suddenly

overwhelmed the woman on the sofa.

No, I must have him! Ever since young, everything I want has always belonged to me in the end!

“Let me tell you, Larry, you must listen to me now that you’re asking me for a favor,” she drawled.

Hmm? What trick has she got up her sleeve now? All at once, the man on the hospital bed put up his

guard.

“What do you want me to do?”

At that, the woman got to her feet and sauntered toward Larry. There was a trace of tenderness in her

eyes, yet it was also tinged with a veiled gleam of icy coldness.

“You’re mine, now and forever. In the future, you can only marry me!” Della declared ruthlessly.

The oppressive aura and vicious air radiating from her had Larry shuddering imperceptibly.

I’ve always heard that Della Duff is a person who would do anything at all to attain her goal. Of course,

her goal has always been her ambition and aspiration career-wise though she has never once violated

the law. Indeed, my meeting with her today has proved that this woman is truly something else. Damn

it! She’s really a competitive woman who can’t accept defeat. However, I’ll never yield!

“Please get your facts straight, Ms. Duff. Despite my divorced status now, I have a girlfriend. Thus,

please don’t pester me anymore. Also, I’m very thankful to you about Mr. Lancaster’s matter, but you

don’t need to intervene anymore either.” As he said that, he turned away to gaze out the window and

ignored her pointedly.

Well, well… He’s quite ballsy! Della studied him with a faint smile on her face. I like him all the more

now!

She then smirked meaningfully before leaving the room.

As Larry stared at her back, he heaved a long sigh. God, problems are truly coming at me one after

another! He knew that massive trouble was gradually heading his way, but he was afraid Joan would

get the wrong impression if she were to learn about it.

Chapter 2469

Despite that, Joan will probably understand my character, yes? Larry’s brows furrowed slightly, and his

expression turned grim.

“What should we do now, Ms. Duff? Do we still keep watch here?” a burly bodyguard at the door of the

hospital room asked.

At that question, Della glanced over her shoulder at the hospital room as a flicker of hesitation flashed

across her eyes.

“Continue to keep watch here.” After saying that, she left.

One day, you’ll fall for me, Larry Norton! Her determined gaze had the people around her instinctively

backing away several steps.

“Who’s that woman with such a powerful aura?”

“I don’t know, but you can tell that she’s rich. After all, she even has a boy toy.”

“Really? Are you saying that the man in that hospital room is her boy toy?”

A few nurses were gossiping in hushed tones in the corner of the corridor, all wearing nosy expressions

on their faces.

All of a sudden, Della stopped in her tracks and marched toward the director’s office. Her eyes blazed

with a murderous look.

“Ms. Duff? Why are you here?” the director exclaimed with a bright smile as he bolted to his feet at

once.

“Dismiss the few nurses in the corner of the corridor!” Della ordered bluntly.

Upon hearing that, the director was instantly taken aback. Huh? What did those few nurses do to

offend this woman before me that she’s so incensed right now?

“The reason being, making up stories and spreading rumors about other people indiscriminately during

working hours. Thus, there’s a problem with their character.” As Della said that, she pushed open the

door and left the office.

Her arrival and departure were like a gust of wind, there a moment and gone the next. Meanwhile, the

director stared at her disappearing back with envy in his eyes. Then, he picked up his glasses and

ambled toward the aforementioned corner.

“Really? Surely not? She doesn’t seem to be that kind of person.”

“Why not? For a woman to have accomplished so much, she must have traded it with her body, and it

was likely multiple times at that.”

“Don’t run your mouth. She seems quite decent.”

The few nurses were still gossiping without the slightest inkling that disaster was mere seconds away.

“The lot of you don’t need to come to work anymore. Pack your things and leave,” the director

enunciated disdainfully after having gone over to them.

In a flash, the few women were stunned. What on earth happened that the director himself is here to

dismiss us?

“Today isn’t April Fools’ Day, so please don’t joke with us,” a woman, who was usually friendly with

men, said with a chuckle.

“I’m serious. Don’t blame me for it, but blame your mouths that just couldn’t stay zipped.” After the

director had said that, he made to leave.

“Wait… But what did we do? We’ve always been conscientious and responsible. Why are you suddenly

dismissing us when we’ve been working so hard?” a nurse inquired beseechingly, grabbing his arm at

once.

“Because the lot of you have offended someone. Besides, this hospital doesn’t need people like you.

We need capable and reliable nurses, not people like you who gossip every day. Alright, that’s all I’m

saying on that matter, so go and pack your things. Remember, no matter where you go in the future,

don’t simply talk about others.”

All at once, understanding dawned upon the few nurses. Oh God, it was the woman with the powerful

aura who got us fired!

“What should I do? My mother will definitely kill me if she learns that I’ve been dismissed by the

hospital!”

“I’m in the same boat. I’ve finally gotten a job, so my father will surely reprimand me again now that I’ve

suddenly been dismissed.”

As the director looked at the few dejected women some distance away, he shook his head.

They have only themselves to blame since it was a mess they brought upon themselves! Besides,

Della Duff isn’t someone to be gossiped about. Ah, they’re just too young to know better!

In the hospital room, Larry remained lying on the bed. As he stared at the photo in his hand, his lips

curved into a smile every so often.

It was a photo of Joan.

Chapter 2470

Joan must have heard Della’s voice earlier, yes? Should I explain things to her?

“So, what’s your plan?” Della asked as she sashayed in.

What plan can I have? In my current condition, I won’t be able to do anything. Larry merely kept mum.

He didn’t want to talk to her, let alone see her.

“Why, are you angry?” Della questioned bluntly.

Of course, I’m angry! I really don’t want to disappoint Joan, nor do I want to owe her a favor!

“Just leave, Della. I’ll settle my problem by myself,” Larry declared loudly.

Even if I can’t settle it, I’ll give my all to save Mr. Lancaster!

“Then, tell me how you’re going to settle it. With your status, connections, and capabilities here, you

definitely won’t be able to save Malcolm Lancaster. As for Matthew Lancaster, I’ve gone to see him,

and he’s clearly an extremely cunning man. Thus, it’ll be very challenging for you to keep him in check

if you’re unfamiliar with his tactics,” Della drawled softly.

She was indeed right, for Matthew had always been a vicious person who never played by the rules.

Instead, he kept changing up his methods simply because he was afraid that he would become

predictable to others.

“That’s none of your business!” the man on the hospital bed snapped.

“Larry, it’s because you don’t want to owe me a favor since you’re afraid that you can’t repay me, no?

In that case, just pledge yourself to me. As I said, I like you, so you must marry me in the future!” Della

insisted.

Is she mad? How could she simply say such a thing? Furthermore, who would dare marry a woman

like her?

“Listen carefully, Della. I, Larry Norton, love Joan Watts alone. In this lifetime, I’ll only marry her,” Larry

stated resolutely.

“It’s okay. I’ll go and have a chat with her. She’ll definitely back away,” Della declared confidently.

In an instant, Larry panicked. “What are you planning to do? I’ll show you no mercy if you dare harm a

single hair on her head!”

Haha, how ridiculous! What can he do to me for the sake of that woman when he isn’t even capable of

resistance now?

In response, Della walked over to the bed and tucked the covers around him with a perpetual smile on

her smile.

“So, how are you planning to punish me at that time? Well, it doesn’t matter anyway. I’ll already be

yours by then, so I’m willing to take whatever punishment you dole out,” she murmured devilishly as

she flirtatiously brushed a finger under his chin. Thereafter, she left.

Damn it! Wasn’t that something I should’ve done to Joan instead? At that very moment, Larry felt

entirely useless. Regret swamped him. If I’d known this would’ve happened, I would’ve had Caspian

come over instead!

“Keep a close eye on him and make sure that he stays put. Otherwise, I’ll be holding you responsible,”

Della threatened as she walked away.

“Understood!”

Considering the sluggish progress of things, Caspian was very much worried back in Chanaea.

Joan had no idea that Larry went abroad to resolve a problem, so she naturally regarded his trip this

time as a run-of-the-mill business trip. Caspian, however, knew about the danger all too well, so he had

been anticipating Larry’s return every day. Alas, he hadn’t seen any sign of him after such a long time.

For that reason, he grew increasingly anxious.

“Why isn’t Larry back yet? Has something happened to him?” Jessica asked loudly beside him, her

expression one of extreme agitation.

“That’s not likely since he said everything was going smoothly the last time he called,” Caspian

assured.

Crash! All of a sudden, the cup in the man’s hand slipped to the floor and splintered into thousands of

pieces right before their eyes.

“Look how careless you are! What’s playing in your mind that you’re always looking distracted?”

Jessica grumbled under her breath.

Well, she’s right. I just can’t shake off the extreme unease and trepidation within me no matter what I’m

doing recently. Yet, I can’t tell what exactly I feel that way.

“What’s wrong, Caspian? Are you not feeling well? If so, let’s go and get you checked out at the

hospital, okay?” Jessica urged anxiously, instantly taking his arm.