Ch. 511..520

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 511-"But did Mr. David have an affair with Celine's mother?" I was curious.

"Since Celine is only a year younger than Louis, David's reputation took a hit." Rose declared, "Facts speak louder than words!" ""So, Mr. David handed the family business to Louis?" I analyzed the situation. ""He must've found it hard to stop the gossip. It seems he had no choice." Rose nodded. "Exactly. By then, David was quite old. He kept that power for a long time, but the Cross family pressured him to give it to Louis. Louis had no interest in taking over the so- called family legacy, especially considering how much it had shrunk over the years." "Did this have to do with the Cross Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt family?" 1 asked.

"Of course it did. How could the Cross family bear this? After all, Nancy was their gem. Her beauty and brains made her a famous high society lady." Any woman praised by Rose could not be ordinary.

"Have you met her?" I asked.

"We met several times at family gatherings. She was indeed a beauty. I just don’t understand how David could cheat on her.

"So, after Nancy's passing, rumors ran rampant. Naturally, the Cross family couldn't accept it. David didn't help his case. Not long after, he brought Celine's mother home. It's clear how formidable this woman's tactics are.

Adeline Myers soon gave birth to Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Celine." I nodded. "Celine truly is her mother's protege." "The Cross family pressured David economically, squeezing his financial resources. Although David struggled to hold on for a few years, the Pierce family's fortune was shaky.

"It was called the Pierce Corporation because David and his younger brother, Douglas, co-founded it. But after Adeline entered the picture, David retracted Douglas's rights, leaving him hanging. His position existed only in name." I was utterly astonished. It seemed this woman was indeed a master of manipulation.

"This made things worse for the Pierce family. It's clear what kind of person Adeline is. Eventually, David realized that the Pierce family might vanish completely. So, he entrusted the entire Pierce family to Louis." "It was a move made out of necessity," I sighed. "I didn't expect the Pierce family's history to be so dramatic." "Louis had already laid the groundwork. Even after losing their daughter, the Cross family did not give up on their grandson. Plus, Louis spent his childhood in the Cross family's care. He didn’t have a strong bond with his father." "Why did Louis hand over the family business to Celine after?" I was a bit puzzled.

“rhink about it, Why did Adeline enter the Pierce family? She schemed for half | her life, only to watch Louis take it all, | How could she stand by? So, she created trouble and pressured | David." "Her usual tactics!" I lamented. "Tt seems one woman can influence an entire family." "You're right," Rose said.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 512-Exiled Rose continued, "Adeline also secretly targeted Louis's business, which infuriated the Cross family. They wanted to take action, but Louise advised against it. He let go of the Pierce family, demonstrating his value for loyalty and gratitude.

"He not only wanted to repay the Cross family for raising him, but he also felt obligated to his father. After the company stabilized, he gave it to Celine. He also gave his father a peaceful retirement. This kept things quiet for a few years, but little did he know…" Rose shook her head in resignation.

"Humans, they always let greed win,"

"Is Mr. David still alive?" I had never heard Atlas mention his grandfather.

Rose nodded. "He's still around, pushing 98 or 99 years old. But since his son's passing, he’s filled with regret.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt "He left Celine and her mother at their estate and moved alone to the old Pierce house. He secluded himself, cut off from the outside world, and paid no attention to Pierce family matters. It's like he's on a spiritual journey." Rose's tone carried a touch of disdain.

"Otherwise, how could he have such a long life? No one knows if he's repented deep down." "And is Adeline still around?" I looked at Rose, "Yes, she's still in Nocturnia, Since David moved into the old house, they haven't seen each other again. Despite Adeline's attempts to meet, David never forgave her. They're both in their 80s now, and I hear their health isn't great!" "Didn't David ever investigate how his son died?" I asked, feeling indignant.

"How could the Pierce family have such a clueless patriarch?" "Why would he investigate? He knows what happened. He never forgave Adeline because of what she and her daughter did to Atlas. It led to his six years of exile and the painful loss of his true love!" My heart suddenly sank, but I didn't interrupt Rose.

"David was furious. He returned to the estate with his men and gave Adeline a severe beating as a warning. That's what left her paralyzed." "Adeline is paralyzed?" I asked in astonishment, to which the old lady nodded with a satisfied smile.

"David did it deliberately. So Celine resents her father for it. Hmph! David ended up betraying his family, tearing them apart inside and out. Now, all he can do is live in remorse." "Tt seems Atlas doesn't have a good relationship with his grandfather either. He's never mentioned him to me," I said.

"Atlas resents his grandfather, too.

When he was in exile, his grandfather sent people to find him, but they quickly gave up. After David attacked Adeline, he warned Celine. Since returning to the old house, he hasn't set foot outside. He's quite a determined man." "So, Atlas was in exile for six years?" I was shocked. "He's never really told me the full details of the Pierce family." "Those six years were a living hell for him! He was barely alive when the Cross family found him and gave him to me," Rose said. When he came to me, he did not speak for months. Don't be fooled by his constant clashes with Arnold. The three brothers get along well!" That explained Atlas's close relationship with the Beringer family.

It turned out that he sought refuge here during his troubled times.

"And what about Atlas's mother? What Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm kind of person was she?" I asked, eager to unearth every detail about Atlas's background.

"Tammy came from a distinguished family. The Lively family's heritage may not have been as deep as the Pierce family's, but she was an extremely gentle and virtuous woman.

She was beautiful, and that's where Atlas got his looks." A look of affection crossed Rose's face.

"The name ATL Empire comes from the combination of Louise and Tammy.

They were deeply in love. It was a family of three that many envied. Oh, how unpredictable life can be!" We both fell silent.

I felt choked up. Without thinking, |

muttered, "Grandma, is there no way to hold them accountable? David is truly a fool."

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 513-An Overload of Information Rose scoffed. "He's just burying his head in the sand, afraid that people will find out. But the entire world is bound to know. So, he scurries into his hole, trying to cover up the truth. He thinks no one will see if he doesn't make a sound! "Atlas has had a tough life. He was not even ten when he lost his parents. He carries so much torment!" Rose sighed, "I hope he'll have smooth sailing from now on. You need to look out for him." "Grandma, I will," I vowed.

"He has matured. This environment has molded him into someone determined, cautious, and strategic.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt He's destined for greatness," Rose said.

"Have you ever met Rory?" My question surprised me. Why did I ask about this? Rose pondered as if trying to recall him. "Hmm. I have!" "Really?" I was excited. "What kind of person is he?" "'Steady, decisive, loyal, and wise. He managed many business affairs between the Beringer and Pierce families." ""His wife, Lucille Avila, was Tammy's classmate and close friend. The four of them were known as the dynamic couples." I quickly shared what I knew. "I heard Lucille had poor health and was overwhelmed with grief when Rory and Atlas’s parents died. After overworking, she passed away herself a month later." I looked at Rose, hoping to hear her version.

"There are many accounts of her death, but I think this explanation is nonsense! I recall Lucille as being very healthy and cheerful. She was a lovely girl who laughed and had a cheerful disposition. After all, she was a princess of Yare!" "Oh?" I was taken aback. "A princess?" "Yes, she was not like Erma, who ended her life. I believe she would've been determined to avenge her husband," Rose said. "That's why Lucille's death is a mystery. But solving this puzzle is only a matter of time. Whoever did this will face retribution sooner or later." "Do you mean she could have been murdered?" I pressed.

She sighed. "It's possible." "How could there be such malicious people? How could they be so audacious when we're living in a society governed by the rule of law?" "There will always be those who find a way around it. Innocent people, unknowingly turned into pawns, will inevitably suffer," Rose lamented.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm “The path of righteousness is fraught with trials and tribulations!" Her words reminded me of a young man named Kennedy. He was such a lively soul! Now he was gone, just like that.

Ava suddenly ran over, her voice sweet.

""Great-grandma, I'm hungry!" Rose looked at me, and we exchanged a smile. "We've been chatting and nearly forgot about this little one!" She stood up. "Come on, let's see if there's anything tasty left in the kitchen." We stayed at the Beringer residence until late. When Atlas came to pick us up, Ava was overjoyed.

"Uncle, where have you been? I haven't seen you all day. Are you very busy?" She looked adorable. Truly, she was a darling to everyone.

Rose understood and graciously let us go despite her reluctance.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 514-Wise Words Sure enough, Grace was overjoyed when we got home. | She learned we visited the Beringer | | home. Her first words to my mom were, "Chlo is good! It's the Murphy family who are unfortunate." Even if my mom were upset about the past, she would not hate a dying person. She just smiled.

Atlas stayed to chat with my dad for a while before he left.

After putting Ava to bed, Grace knocked on my door. I quickly let her in.

She still seemed awkward in front of me. I reached out and pulled her to sit on the couch. "Is there something on Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt your mind?" "Well…not really. I just wanted to spend some time with you," she said cautiously, and it tugged at my heart. I couldn't stand seeing someone so vulnerable. I sat beside her just like old times.

Grace took care of me wholeheartedly during my postpartum period. She cared for me even more than her son.

Matthew was already involved with Melanie then. Grace was the only one who genuinely took care of me.

"Mom…" I awkwardly called her.

After all, I had used this term for over a decade, so it had become a habit. They just hurt me too deeply.

Grace burst into tears. ""Chlo, I'm cursed! I'lost you, even after having you. I must have done something wrong in my past life to deserve this.

That's why I'm facing this retribution!" ""Mom, please don't say that! After all, we were a family for ten years. You're my child's grandmother! Just think of me as your daughter! Don't dwell on that heartless person," I comforted her.

""Be happy with the time you have left.

Both Atlas and I are trying to find a cure for you. Let's not give up hope.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Every extra day you live means another day Ava has her grandmother. In the Murphy family, you're the one who truly cares for her!" Grace kept wiping her tears. "I never expected that, as I grew older, I'd end up without a family." "Mom! Isn't this your home? It's Ava's { home, which means it's yours too!" "You… and Mr. Atlas are doing well! As long as he doesn't mind that you're… " She glanced at me sneakily. "'I mean nothing else. He's perfect, you know…" She started crying again, and I felt a lump in my throat.

"He is. He treats both of us exceptionally well." "As long as he continues to be good to Ava, you should take it further. After all, you're still young. I heard he's well-off. You won’t have to be concerned about money!" She was being very candid.

IE "Mom, I'm not very materialistic. You knew I wanted nothing from the Murphy family when I was with Matthew." She nodded. "Yes, you're not after money!" I chuckled. "Back then, I knew what kind of house your family lived in. I wouldn't have chosen him if I were a materialistic woman." I realized how naive I was.

"However, he hurt me too deeply. I'm not like what you think, Mom. I don't have to fight for this house. Even marriage laws explicitly state that a couple's joint property should be divided fairly." I needed to dispel the rumor that I had taken their house.

"You know he wanted to leave me long ago. How many of your savings exceed mine? I didn't even have money on me when I took the child to the hospital.

Isn't the Murphy family being too much?" @

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 515- Delayed Talk She kept her head down, avoiding my gaze. I understood she would side with her son in any situation. I get it. "I've been living in a small house for eight years. I know spacious and bright houses are nice, but I didn't have many thoughts about it. All I wanted was to feel at home. I didn't need a big place. As long as I had him, it was enough." My words were filled with melancholy. Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt "But he went behind my back, disregarding Ava's future. He bought a house for Melanie in Amethyst Apartments, the place I had my eyes on. I wouldn't let you all repeatedly humiliate me. That's why I must take back what's rightfully mine. What’s wrong with that?" I looked at Grace, who hung her head and remained silent. "Don't overthink while you're living here," I said. "I just want to spend more time with Ava. I'll go back eventually!" Grace looked at me. "Don't worry too much. Your home is where you want it to be. How have you been feeling lately? If you're not feeling well, you must tell me. It's my responsibility as Ava's mother. Don't keep it to yourself!" "Ah, I know!" @ "Don't worry unnecessarily. Matthew is an adult, well over 30 years old. He doesn't need you to worry about him. Now that he has a son, the family is complete. You don't need to dwell on things. Sickness, old age, and death are all part of the natural order." ""His son... Chlo... Who knows whose child he is? Do you see any resemblance to Matthew? I'm afraid he's not the Murphy family's offspring!" She said bitterly. I was taken aback. hadn't expected Grace to say something like this. "Why are you saying this?" "It's all because that beast had a mother like that! She even said that the beast was Henry's child! Where is he now? Sigh... It's all my fault." Grace was full of regret. "She is Abby's daughter, after all. How can there be anything good about her? Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm When the child was born, I didn't feel a connection. It wasn't the same closeness I felt when Ava was born. It's just...different. I'm not proud of that child at all. I have a feeling we're not even related!" Grace kept shaking her head and sighing. ""Chlo, i-if I'm not here one day, I beg you, d-don't hurt Matthew. He's been bewitched! That beast will torment you, just like how her mother did." Grace grabbed my hand, her eyes pleading. "I've noticed you're different now. You won't need much effort to get back at him. But...I beg you..." After saying this, she suddenly kneeled in front of me. ""Chlo, spare him! Don't harm him!" I was shocked and quickly tried to lift her. "Mom... What are you doing? Get up, don't do this!" Grace tried to shake me off. ""Chlo, promise me, spare Matthew! Just think of Ava!" "Mom, get up. Let's talk this out properly! Don't do this. This is coercion, just like what Matthew did!" Then, I pulled her up. "I won't hurt people who haven't offended me. I won't strike back for no reason. Do you know what they did to me?" Grace wiped away tears silently, shaking her head. "Melanie intended to hurt Ava!" I said it without reservation. "That beast!" Grace slapped her thigh in anguish. "I can promise not to harm him, but if they constantly target me, I can't guarantee that I won't fight back." Then, I recounted everything Matthew and Melanie had done. She left my room silently.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 516-Matchmaking on the Cruise Ship I was restless the entire night.

Every time I thought about my past with Matthew, I couldn't find peace. I pitied Grace, who had no one to rely on at such an old age, unlike others who had their families.

Her whole life had been pitiful, and now, at the end, she still pleaded for her son.

After Grace settled in with me, Matthew came once to see her with a lot of supplements, treating her like a neighbor. He didn't mention taking her back with him, perhaps feeling that she would be better cared for here.

However, he did inform Grace that Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt Abby had been detained for 15 days due to causing trouble here. This brought Grace some joy; she thought it was her son taking revenge for her, but it was actually Atlas's doing. I didn't tell her, though.

I wanted to let her leave thinking that her son did care for her.

The house I found for Lauren was in the duplex building next to Ivanna's, with about 120 square meters of space.

Atlas helped find it, and I made the decision to buy it because I couldn't reach her and didn't know where she had gone, whether it was abroad or within the country.

But I knew Oliver hadn't given up on finding her. He had changed significantly; I saw him once from a distance, without even exchanging a greeting.

[ knew he had been under the impression that I had intentionally kept him in the dark.

On Friday, Arthur hosted a grand gathering for the business people in Foswood, which turned out to be quite an extraordinary event. Surprisingly, it took place on a luxurious yacht, spanning two days and two nights, starting Friday evening and concluding Sunday afternoon.

This grand event caused a stir throughout Foswood, as Arthur's reputation had attracted many attendees from foreign financial groups and large businesses, making it an unprecedented grand event.

At that moment, it wasn't just the business community that was shaken; the scions, elites, socialites and celebrities of Foswood were all eagerly seeking tickets, turning what was initially a simple business networking event into what seemed like a grand show of their status.

On Friday, some socialites arrived at the port early, carrying a whole trunk of clothing, eager to showcase themselves at the gathering. It was truly unbelievable how their minds worked. Was this what it meant to have status? From my perspective, it seemed like they had too much leisure time on their hands.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Atlas arrived on time to pick me up. I had indeed brought two sets of clothing, as we were going to be on the ship for two days. The gown I wore today was the one Atlas had sent over just the day before, labeled as a formal dress but quite conservative in style, covering my shoulders, back, and legs adequately. Yet, he kept praising how beautiful I was.

I had to admit, the dress was genuinely stunning. It was a strong metallic champagne color, with simple and sleek lines. The unique feature of the dress was the fragmented diamond texture embedded in the fabric, creating a flowing pattern reminiscent of ocean waves. The neckline was particularly artful, featuring a design that highlighted the elegant curve of the neck.

The stylist had also styled my hair into wavy strands, tied back elegantly. It gave me a lively and graceful appearance.

Upon reaching the port, I could see a red carpet laid out, and many people were scrambling to board the ship. The scene reminded me of the Titanic.

As soon as we got out of the car, specialized personnel guided us through a separate passage, avoiding the general crowd. Upon boarding the ship, I saw Arthur personally waiting at the entrance of the VIP hall, walking toward us from a distance.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 517-She's Everywhere Atlas exchanged a handshake with Arthur before walking into the VIP hall.

Inside, it became apparent that all the prominent upper management figures of Foswood were present, and they all politely greeted Atlas upon seeing him.

His significant contribution to this networking event couldn't be overlooked, as he had invited numerous personnels from foreign financial institutions with ongoing projects to offer.

The timing of this event coincided with the implementation phase of the plans for the latter half of the year, so they were scheduled to hold a meeting here.

Atlas had someone escort me to the luxurious suite reserved for us, which was no different from a high-end suite on land. The area was quiet, likely occupied by other VIPs, without the commotion of random people moving about.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt After hanging up my coat, I stepped out of the room to get some fresh air on the deck. From a distance, I could still see many people boarding, all dressed in their finest attire.

Initially, Ivanna was also supposed to come. However, upon considering that Trinity would likely be in attendance, she chose to avoid the situation and stayed back. It was a pity she couldn't be there.

This ship was truly immense, and I had never been on such a large cruise before. My location near the bow was in the VIP area, so there were very few people on the deck. Presumably, the ship would depart from the port once all the passengers were on board.

As I gazed into the distance, someone suddenly stood beside me, startling me. When I turned my head, I realized it was Stella.

"Long time no see, Chloe!" Her outfit today was outstanding. It was a strapless light blue gradient gown that accentuated her graceful figure. Her graceful princess-like hair draped over her shoulders. Her smile was enchanting, though there was a meaningful glint in her eyes as she looked at me.

I gave her a faint smile. She truly seemed to be everywhere.

"Not that long, I believe." I responded calmly, my expression unwavering, "Ms. Stella, you seem to be quite forgetful." "Oh, but it feels like it's been a while." She didn't seem embarrassed, instead leaning toward me with a shy smile, attempting to take my arm. I subtly dodged her, leaning against the railing and looking at her.

"Indeed, everyone's busy." I emphasized the word 'busy' with clear intention.

"Right. You have been busy getting fruitful results, whereas some of us are just busy in vain. I've heard that things have been going well for you lately." She looked at me with a sly smile, her words dripping with sarcasm. "Justa stroke of good luck, perhaps."

• T "Well, it seems luck is finally on my side," I replied indifferently. “You're always well-informed." — She chuckled, looking quite pleased, and continued, "Oh, it's not about being well-informed. It’s my way of showing concern for you.” I also smiled, "I truly believe that. Thanks for always keeping an eye on me." "It's destined that we should pay attention to each other. After all, your face has left a deep impression on me, making it impossible for me to forget," she said, her eyes flickering with a hint of something I couldn’t quite explain. Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm "Is that so? I left such a lasting impression on you?" I glanced at her, aware that she was hinting at something else with her words, but | remained curious about what she intended to convey. Stella seemed to notice my interest and smiled coyly, "Of course, your face has always haunted me; I can't help but think of it. And in fact, you're the most formidable one. I'm quite intrigued!" "Is that right? Tell me more." I continued to look at her without revealing any emotions. To the onlookers, our interaction might have seemed like two good friends enjoying a leisurely time together. However, only Stella and I knew that we both carried an inexplicable aura, inevitably repelling each other whenever we met. It was a battle of sorts that neither of us could easily let go. She paused for a moment, her eyes turning icy as she stared directly at me, a hint of danger in her gaze. "Chloe, do you really want to know? I'm afraid you might not be able to handle what I'm about to say. Are you sure you want to know?" "Of course." I met her gaze, replying unabashedly, "Being mysterious isn't fun at all. I prefer being open and honest." "Hahaha! I just love the way you are." Stella's laughter was radiant, as if she had gained a great advantage. "Well, many people do." I boldly asserted, laughing coquettishly. "You keep setting traps for me, but I've become too shrewd for them. Trying to set more traps secretly won't work." "Well then. I might as well tell you the reason. I believe it'll be something that will…"

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 518-Interrupted Stella hadn't had the chance to utter her ill-intended words when a voice from behind interrupted us.

"What are you doing here?" I turned to see it was Atlas.

His clear gaze swept over Stella, and he asked, "What were you talking about?" Stella immediately swallowed the words she was about to say, her expression somewhat flustered.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt However, she quickly changed her demeanor and tried to grasp Atlas's arm. "Atlas, Chloe and I were just chatting about random things.” I maintained my calm smile, appearing nonchalant, observing Stella's rapid change of expression.

Yet, I couldn't help feeling regretful. I had missed another opportunity. I suspected that whatever Stella wanted to tell me just now would have been another version of the story.

These things felt like fragments of memories, slowly piecing themselves together in my mind.

Without hesitation, Atlas took my hand in front of Stella. "Let's go inside to rest a bit and have something to eat first. We'll set sail a bit later." I saw Stella's lips twitch, but she remained understanding. "Sure, you two go ahead. I'll go find my friends too. Atlas, I want to go back to Pleca Park tomorrow." Atlas cast her a fleeting glance. "Pleca park is being renovated and not open to the public." I looked at Stella, barely managing to hold back my laughter. How could Atlas say that? Clearly, he was hinting that Stella was an outsider.

As Atlas led me away while holding my hand, I couldn't help but glance back at Stella. Her face was twisted into an ugly expression.

perhaps she harbored deep hatred for me, but I couldn't shake the feeling that she was also powerless at this moment.

 

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 519-The Sly Fox Our spot at the ship's deck was nearly empty, and he held me close as he said, "This is like the Titanic. Come on, feel it.” His whispered words in my ear were tender and full of love. In his embrace, I felt incredibly happy, losing myself in the breathtaking view before us. I even forgot where I was for a moment.

I let out a joyful shout into the sea breeze, feeling a sense of lightness. It truly felt like we were flying on the sea at the front of the ship.

However, moments of bliss are often fleeting, and the golden hues of the | setting sun gradually disappeared over the horizon, leaving the sea in deep shades.

Checking the time, Atlas said, "It's time to go. The opening ceremony is about to start." — The main hall was packed with people, all smiling, eager, and excited. I couldn't help but feel a bit dazed. This didn't feel like a business gathering but more like a grand New Year's celebration.

Nevertheless, I recognized many familiar faces. What surprised me most was the presence of Ivanna on board. It caught me off guard, and we exchanged greetings from a distance.

[ hadn't carried my phone with me, so even if she had tried to notify me, I wouldn't have seen it.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt As Atlas's companion, my attention was focused on handling every VIP he introduced me to.

But what intrigued me the most was the presence of top figures from Bourdamun. It became clear to me that Atlas was paving the way for me.

I was genuinely interested in Bourdamun's projects, but my inability to connect with their core figures had been a significant roadblock. I was quite unfamiliar with Bourdamun, and my network was limited.

This time, we managed to get in touch with the key figures of their core projects. It seemed that he was serious when he said that he would help me.

Atlas playfully added, "Mr. Noah has major projects in his hands. The two of you can have a chat, and it could be a great opportunity for cooperation." I quickly caught onto his intention and set up a path for myself with a smile.

Atlas's introduction was skillful, neither too pushy nor too discreet, creating a solid foundation for my conversations.

By the time the opening ceremony began, we had mingled enough to be considered familiar. Of course, my role as Atlas's companion helped pave the way.

The opening ceremony was a lively affair with a buzzing crowd. The change of location made it feel distinctly different, and it seemed like we had entered a different dimension.

Amidst the clinking of glasses, I felt transported to an entirely new world, entirely different from the events on land.

Arthur stayed close to Atlas 1 throughout, and he took notice of the interaction between Atlas and Mr.

Noah from Bourdamun, sensing a hint of significance in it.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Arthur, despite his status as a top figure, seemed preoccupied, given that tonight was his event. Consequently, everyone showed him the utmost respect. As for me, being Archie’s goddaughter, the dynamics were clear to someone as astute as him. He wouldn't have trouble understanding the intricate relationships at play here.

When Noah and Arthur raised their glasses, Atlas took me away, whispering softly, "Mr. Noah's full name is Noah Kent. He's the newly appointed head of Bourdamun and is trying to establish himself. So, don't worry and wait for him to approach you. From there, the conversation will flow naturally." Ilooked at Atlas, a hint of concern in my eyes, and asked, "We won’t mess it up, right?” Atlas glanced at me sideways and asked, "You have that little faith in me?" "What does that have to do with having faith in you?" I was a bit puzzled, muttering disdainfully under my breath.

"playing hard to get will change the dynamics." He had the look of an old fox, slyly smiling at me.

In truth, I admired him from the bottom of my heart. In the business world, this man was a seasoned trickster. _ He whispered in my ear, "If I fail, I'll take care of you every night as punishment, but if I succeed, you'll have to reward me every day." I blushed, feeling embarrassed with so many people around. He was getting too bold, and I was seething with anger.

"Don't push your luck. Atlas, you're really out of line right now. I'm genuinely reconsidering my opinion of you." I scowled at him, giving him a warning.

Just then, someone approached us. He was a foreigner whom Atlas greeted in another language. I understood that this guest was also invited by Atlas.

Seeing them engrossed in conversation, I discreetly moved away to find Ivanna. I spotted her with a middle-aged man, presumably her company's boss.

Just as I was about to approach her, someone blocked my path.

Beyond the Divorce Chapter 520-Can't Get Along I looked up and found that the person in front of me was none other than Trinity.

To be honest, it was the first time I was facing her directly. I calmly glanced at her, not quite sure why she was seeking me out. Logically, we had no connections or any reason to communicate.

But she spoke first, ""Ms. Chloe, can we talk somewhere privately?" I couldn't help but pause for a moment, looking at her for a few seconds, then nodded, "Okay." Seeing my agreement, she cast a glance in Atlas's direction and then at me before turning and walking toward a quieter area in the hall.

On either side of the main hall were small private seats, where several people were engrossed in conversations.

Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt I glanced back at Atlas, worried that he might get anxious if he couldn't find me. As I looked back, I saw him looking in my direction. I gestured toward Trinity, indicating that I was going with her.

He gave Trinity a cold glance and nodded subtly, indicating that he understood.

I followed Trinity to a relatively secluded seat. She arrogantly looked at me and asked, "What would you like to drink?" "A glass of white wine, please," |

replied calmly.

Trinity gestured to a waiter, who then approached us with a tray. I casually took a glass of white wine from him.

@ I didn't particularly enjoy alcohol and wasn't knowledgeable about it, but in this setting, the color of the wine put me at ease.

I' knew I had to be cautious.

| Trinity examined me, clearly understanding my intentions.

"Ms. Chloe, do you know why I approached you?" Trinity cut to the chase, but her question didn't sit well with me. It felt like she was asserting her dominance, and I was supposed to submit to her authority.

I'looked at her, exuding an attitude that was neither servile nor overbearing, and said, "I'm all ears." Ls Surprised by my composure, she gazed at me with piercing eyes while taking a large sip of red wine. Her fiery red lips looked even more alluring and full. Up close, she truly was a beauty, but her beauty was wild and exotic.

"I don't have any particular dislike for you, but I'also don't like you. Some people can be friends, while others aren't suitable to be friends. At the very least, you're not suitable to be my friend." She was decisive and direct in her words.

Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm Implicit in her statement was the notion that our paths didn't align.

"TI agree." I replied without hesitation.

"We used to keep to our own spheres. I never crossed boundaries, and I never meddled in your affairs. Moreover, you have a reputation for attracting trouble, and I believe you're aware of the mixed reviews about you." Her words inexplicably brought a smile to my face, and the tension between us eased slightly.

"However, for me, the distinction between good and bad is different from the ordinary. What others see as bad might be precisely what I see as good.

So far, I haven't passed judgment on your character or taken sides." I kept my gaze fixed on her. Her words surprised me a little. Was she trying to make it clear that she wasn't in alliance with Stella? My mind raced, analyzing the purpose behind her words.

Noting my direct gaze and ) contemplation, she continued, "But I have my principles as well, albeit different from those of others. I'm possessive. Once I have my eye on something, I won't let it go. Even if I can't have it, I'd rather destroy it than let others have it." I'understood the implications of her words, but I didn't interject or rush to declare my stance.

"Until now, I've never made an exception to this principle. No one has been able to make me compromise." Listening to her, I began to perceive Trinity in a new light. She wasn't the impulsive, wild person I initially thought she was. Instead, she was |

clearly intelligent and principled. €» "Then why did your people get involved in Harmony's case?" I asked calmly.