Ch. 411..420

Chapter 411: Are There Any More Doubts?

Everyone felt a little overwhelmed with everything that was mentioned. After seeing that Joshua could find so much hidden information and make Mandy confess immediately, they realized exactly how powerful Joshua was.

Although they were unsure why Mandy would have done such senseless things, they could understand that Joshua had evidence, so Mandy confessed because she was worried.

Since Joshua claimed that there was more evidence, it was naturally assumed that it was authentic.

“After the kidnappers took the child, they handed her to one of their younger brothers and asked him to kill her and then toss the body. The brother could not go through with the killing though, he didn’t think that she would survive since she was so weak at the time and just threw her on the side of the road.” Joshua calmly stated.

He continued, “Later, the kidnapper was caught, he wanted to protect his brother so he did not turn him in, and he became an outlaw. However, I finally found him, and he told me the location that he dropped Denmark’s daughter.”

A video appeared on the screen. It showed Joshua’s men investigating the kidnapper and the kidnapper’s brother and confirming the position where Hazel was abandoned.

“After that, the child was adopted by a good-hearted couple. They gave her the name Hazel.” Joshua said softly, “The couple retained evidence from when they took Hazel because they knew it might be important.”

A set of photos appeared on the screen, it was the place where Hazel was abandoned and the exact same position that was provided by the kidnapper’s brother.

Hazel was stunned. According to her foster mother’s rigorous character, she must’ve kept the evidence from when they picked her up. Just how did Joshua get the photos?

While thinking about everything carefully, Hazel knew her life had not been quiet lately. There was no way that Harry and Rachel would remain calm when they heard what was happening. She could not understand why they had not come to see her, though, and when Ronald called her, he just encouraged her to prepare for graduation.

Hazel thought that it was entirely out of the ordinary for her family not to run to her side, but they must have been comforted by Joshua, considering Rachel gave him the photos. She awkwardly looked at Joshua, she had no idea that he had done so much for her.

She understood why he had refused to let her out of the Denmark Residence and find information. It was all because he understood that it was the only way to solve the problem. However, Hazel had a problem with him, and she knew that she shouldn’t.

“Everyone, are there any more doubts?” Joshua asked faintly.

Given the evidence that was presented to them, the directors did not know what to say. They were all frustrated; before the meeting, they all felt that Mandy was Denmark’s missing daughter, but the situation had completely turned around, and they had no reason to object.

“There is no problem…” One of the directors said slyly, “But since you are the adopted child of the Denmark Family, President Joshua, you should have your share of Denmark Group.”

“Yes, right, and for so many years, you have worked so hard. It’s to your credit that Denmark Group has developed to the scale it has, you should take more shares.”

Other directors echoed the idea not because they suddenly found a conscience but because they knew they couldn’t take advantage of Denmark Group with Hazel running it. They had only supported Mandy because Fred was behind her, and he was not nearly as resourceful as Joshua; it would be easy to take advantage if it was in Mandy’s hands.

If Hazel took over the Denmark Group, the person behind her was Joshua, they could not fight with him. They could not see the future, but they all wondered, even though Joshua and Hazel were happy, what could happen in the future. There was a chance that they broke up, he would continue to run the Denmark Group but not if it was in Hazel’s hands.

They had to remember that if Joshua was still in charge, they had their beautiful daughters waiting to take the crown so they could not let Hazel take over.

“A good man must have a conscience,” Joshua said with a serious tone,

“My foster parents treated me so well. Without them, I wouldn’t be here today, not to mention that Hazel has suffered so much. I should give it to her.”

The directors were suddenly stunned and unable to speak. The words Joshua was using were the same ones used by Fred and the ones used to suppress Joshua and convince him to give the Denmark Group to Mandy. None of the directors could find the words to contradict him.

“Since Hazel is really the daughter of the Denmark Family, and Joshua is willing, then she should take over the Denmark Group.” Sunny broke the silence.

The directors did not speak. Even if they knew that Sunny was right, they did not want to admit it.

Hazel looked at her strangely. Sunny continued, “We were blinded before. Now the truth is clear, we have to let the children of the Denmark Family decide.”

“Yes, yes…” The directors had to give in. They would not want to offend Joshua, and they clearly had no other option. The meeting was over, the directors left the room one by one, nobody questioning Hazel’s identity any longer. They were too worried that Joshua was going to cause trouble for them.

Sunny did not leave with the others, instead, she walked over to Hazel.

“Hazel, I was deceived by Fred because of his false evidence. I didn’t expect you to be victimized. I am sorry.” Sunny apologized.

“It’s okay.” Hazel faintly twitched her lips. Sunny was acting very peculiar and awkward, any illusion Hazel had about her before, she would no longer have.

Hazel suddenly said, “Aunt Sunny, you said that you wanted to give me the property of the Joseph Family. I have thought it over, and given the circumstances, I’m willing to take it.”

Joshua’s brows raised slightly as he looked at Hazel with deep eyes.

Sunny’s face changed. She did say that before, but Hazel had clearly rejected it. Why would she mention it again?

“But Susan…” Sunny said with embarrassment, “I told her you didn’t want it. She has been asking me if she could have it….”

“Aunt Sunny, you are not willing, are you?” Hazel said with disappointment. “If Susan wants it too, I will discuss it with her and buy it.”

 

Chapter 412: The Office Is Also Exciting

“After all, Susan would probably enjoy money more than an old house she doesn’t like very much.” Hazel continued.

Sunny hesitated for a second, and she smiled indifferently, “You are right, I will discuss with Susan and let you know as soon as possible. Goodbye for now.”

After she left, Joshua said, “You still won’t give up?”

Hazel did not really want the old house of Joseph’s Family. She just needed an excuse to get close to Joseph’s house again.

“Well,” Hazel nodded hard and said, “Joshua, maybe it doesn’t make sense, but… I just think there’s something I need to find in Joseph Residence.”

“Okay,” Joshua nodded, “But when you go, make sure to bring Crystal White with you.”

“Of course!” Hazel said proudly, “I will take her wherever I go! That, Joshua…”

Seeing that Hazel suddenly became a little shy, Joshua asked a little strangely, “What?”

“I…” Hazel clenched her teeth and suddenly jumped into Joshua’s arms, wrapping her legs around his waist. His immediate reaction was to put his arms around her, he felt hot, “Hazel?”

Hazel’s cheeks were a little redder. “I, I want to say…”

There was a bang, and the door of the meeting room flew open, the company cleaner walked in. Hazel looked at the door, and the cleaner stared at them. Both he and Hazel were utterly embarrassed.

The cleaner said, “Sorry, please continue…”

She quickly left. Hazel blushed and jumped out of Joshua’s arms. She wanted to crawl under the table and hide.

“Hazel, let’s continue.” Joshua grabbed her wrist and said with a smile.

He was amazed. Although Hazel liked to tease him, she was usually earnest at the office.

“Continue what!” Hazel pushed him angrily, “It’s not what you think! Go, go back to work!”

“Well,” Joshua smiled, “The office is also exciting.”

Hazel glanced at him, speechless. She was just grateful to him, so she wanted to thank him. Until the meeting, she did not know what he had done for her.

She pulled her wrist away and ran out of the meeting room. Joshua picked up his paperwork and quickly followed her.

When Hazel got to the president’s office, she opened the door and found roses, it appeared as if there were thousands of flowers. She heard Joshua walking up behind her, she turned and asked, “Did you prepare this for me? Is it a celebration?”

“No.” Joshua frowned slightly. He hadn’t planned the roses at all, so why would they be in his office?

“No?” Hazel was even more puzzled.

Joshua went straight to the desk and made a call. “Why does my office look like a rose garden?”

“President,” The secretary on the other end was slightly stunned and then explained, “The flower shop owner said the roses are for Miss Crowe. Because there was no signature, Jaxson said that it was probably you who ordered the roses, so he told us to put them in your office.”

Hazel frowned at the strange situation. She looked around at all the roses and finally found a small card, she picked up the card, and her face went pale.

“Sweetheart, these flowers are to show you how much I love you!”

Hazel finally guessed who sent the flowers. It must have been Simon King, he was really determined.

Her fingers began to shake, the card dropped out of her hand, but Joshua caught it in mid-air before it landed. Hazel’s body froze, and she suddenly felt like there was about to be an explosion. Was Joshua going to be jealous?

“I don’t like flowers at all! Just, who asked him to send flowers?” Hazel hurriedly said, “I will get someone to throw them away now!”

“Forget it. Since there is no signature, you don’t have to throw them away.” Joshua said faintly.

“… Really?” Hazel looked at him silently. Was he planning to take the credit from Simon for sending the flowers?

“Hazel, ” Joshua’s look was a bit more resentful, “Do you think I’m not considerate enough and that I haven’t sent you this many flowers, so you are angry with me?”

“I didn’t!” Hazel’s head suddenly grew large. Joshua really knew how to turn the situation favorable to him!

“Really not?” Joshua chuckled, slowly approaching her.

“No…” Hazel only felt that her heartbeat was getting faster and faster.

“Hazel, what did you want to say to me in the meeting room, huh?” Joshua asked faintly.

“I, I just want to thank… Hey!”

Joshua pulled her close and kissed her lips, all of her words were silenced by his kiss.

“What?” He continued to ask.

“I……”

He kissed her again, she could feel that Joshua was jealous of the flowers, but he was pretending not to be. Suddenly, her cell phone rang, she pulled her lips away to answer it without looking at the number.

“Sweetheart, did the flowers find their rightful owner?” Simon said.

Hearing this voice, a glimmer flashed in Joshua’s eyes. Hazel almost dropped her phone, if she knew that it was Simon calling, she wouldn’t have answered it. Before she could hang up, Joshua grabbed her phone.

“Thank you for helping me with the flowers.” Joshua said faintly, “I will wire the payment to you later. They are lovely, and all of the Denmark Group employees agree that as Hazel’s fiancé, I am very caring and romantic.”

When Simon heard Joshua’s voice, he was stunned, but he instantly understood what Joshua had meant.

“What the fuck? No way!” Simon said, annoyed and shocked. “Joshua, I sent the flowers to Hazel, but you actually want to take credit? You are too shameless! Give the phone back to my sweetheart, I want to talk to her!”

“She is not available.” Joshua’s eyes darkened.

“What do you mean she isn’t available?” Simon was even angrier. “My sweetheart is definitely by your side! Don’t think I don’t know!”

Joshua twitched his lips. Suddenly, he leaned over Hazel’s ear and took a soft bite. She was shocked by the sudden attack and grunted as Joshua’s lips fell on hers.

“… Hey!” Hazel’s eyes were open wide, she understood what Joshua was doing.

He quickly hung up the phone. Hazel looked at him, “…You!”

 

Chapter 413: Is It So Fascinating?

Hazel watched as Joshua took her cell phone and put the unknown number that Simon called on the blocked list.

“Hazel, do you think that I’m doing too much?” Joshua looked at her innocently, “Would you like to call him to explain?”

“Explain what…” Hazel looked at him angrily.

Joshua twitched his lips.

“Joshua,” Hazel stretched out her arms and suddenly caught his neck.

“Hmmm?” He chuckled, “Hazel, do you want to try in the office…?”

Hazel felt that the mood was suddenly gone. She said very quietly, “You mean, in front of the flowers that were sent by Simon?”

“I sent them….” Joshua corrected her, his face was dark.

“Okay, I knew it!” Hazel retorted, “Listen to me, I am very grateful to you, so I want to say thank you!”

“Hazel, you can thank me in this way. I would be grateful.” He smiled.

Hazel really wanted to be mad at him.

“I deliberately didn’t want you to say it.” Joshua’s eyes went a little deeper. “Hazel, I don’t want to hear you say thank you. Or, could you physically thank me?”

“I am tempted; would you cooperate?” Hearing the teasing in his words, Hazel blinked, and her index finger gently drew a circle on his chest. “I will graduate soon. Before then, just be patient, okay?”

Joshua’s body was burning. Hearing her words, he could only helplessly press down his desire. “Fine, I listen to you.”

After her identity matter was solved, Hazel suddenly felt that her good fortune had returned. The only thing that didn’t go well was the situation with Mandy and Fred.

After Mandy and Fred were taken away, they took the opportunity to escape on their way to the police station. Joshua sent a lot of men to find them, but they could not find out where they were hiding.

Other than that, Hazel felt everything was moving in the right direction, including Joshua-Hazel Pictures; the first film was finally released. The film’s screening was well received by critics, and on the official release date, the film had an excellent occupancy rating.

In addition to the press release, Mathew Carter’s fame and the popularity of the online drama had not faded; the fans of the online drama were curious. They wanted to know if their favorite stars could perform on the big screen, so many of them went to see the film.

When they went to see it, they found it was actually good, and the reviews caused an explosive growth at the box office. The newspapers were calling the film a big hit, it was playing in the theatres every day. Hazel felt that the investment was worth it when she received all the revenue.

Even though Hazel repeatedly warned herself that the film should not affect her graduation thesis defense, she couldn’t help but secretly pay attention to the box office.

***

On the day of her graduation thesis defense, Joshua drove Hazel to school.

“How has the preparation for the thesis defense gone?” Joshua asked.

“It’s good.” Hazel glanced at her phone and said.

“I’m not talking about the box office.” Joshua’s face was a little irritated. He knew what Hazel had been concentrating on, he wasn’t too worried, but he wanted her to try. Even if Hazel’s defense were terrible, he would make sure she could graduate, but he didn’t want it to come to that.

“Ah?” Hazel replied, then she shyly put her cell phone away.

“Is it so fascinating?” Joshua sighed helplessly.

“Of course, it’s good!” Hazel said with a sigh of relief, “By the looks of these numbers, I can officially say that I will be able to be your sugar mama!”

“You are my sugar mama now, Ms. President.” Joshua couldn’t smile.

Since the confirmation of Hazel’s identity, he had given her everything in the Denmark Group. She was the biggest shareholder in the Denmark Group. Although they didn’t have a general meeting with all of the shareholders to give Hazel the title, she was already the actual president of Denmark Group, his real boss.

“Okay, I got that concept in my head…” Hazel touched her chest, her heart was thumping, she waved her hand, “Let’s forget it for a second! When you mention Denmark Group, I feel like a huge mountain is pressing down on me. I can’t even breathe!”

“Okay, let’s forget it.” He chuckled.

“Joshua,” Hazel suddenly questioned him, “You gave me everything. Wouldn’t you regret it?”

“No.” He said faintly, but his look was so firm.

“Aren’t you afraid that one day I will…” Hazel hesitated and finally said, “I will break up with you, and then you will have nothing?”

***

Joshua stopped the car at the gate of the campus. He turned to her, put his arm around her waist, and whispered in her ear, “That day will never happen. I will make you unable to leave me, both mentally and physically.”

He gently bit on Hazel’s earlobe, she shuddered and pushed him away. She got out of the car quickly, when she saw Joshua getting out of the car she yelled, “Stay!”

“Are you actually abandoning me?” Joshua’s eyes were a bit resentful.

“You are impossible.” Hazel was speechless. “I have to keep a low profile. If you are with me, things will explode! I’ve come to participate in the defense, not to be watched by students, okay?”

Before Mandy and Hazel had their true identities revealed, Mandy manipulated the entire university into believing that Hazel was an imposter and that she just wanted money from the Denmark Group.

Even though Joshua had clarified all the rumors surrounding the Denmark Group, confirmed Mandy was a liar and that her plot with Fred Cohen was a scam, he could not announce that she was the daughter of the Denmark family until after graduation.

He had made a promise to the Crowe family that he would not allow Hazel to be at the forefront of any public controversy. However, many guessed that since Mandy was not Denmark’s daughter, Hazel must be.

Besides the truth about Mandy coming out, the popularity of the film released by Joshua-Hazel Pictures encouraged people to dig up information.

 

Chapter 414: Why Did They Start Fighting?

The rumor was that Joshua-Hazel Pictures was naturally founded by Joshua and Hazel and that it was Hazel’s private company. They also said that she was making a lot of money with the company.

Of course, Denmark Group would not admit to any of the rumors, but it was still well known at Quantum University. The campus form had posts that speculated on Hazel’s identity, and a lot of students started to regret how they had treated Hazel.

Hazel read the forum occasionally, so she was aware of the rumors. She was famous at school, and if she and Joshua appeared together, they would definitely attract a lot of attention.

“Okay,” Joshua smiled, “Then I will wait for you to finish the defense and then pick you up.”

“Perfect!” Hazel nodded quickly. She shut the car door, and she and Crystal walked through the campus gates.

As they entered the classroom, everyone stopped talking and looked at them. The students all looked at her with confused expressions, they glared like she was a mountain made of gold.

Hazel did not like to be the center of attention and felt a little uncomfortable. Suddenly, she saw Ariel sitting in the corner waving at her far away, “Hazel, here!”

She quickly weaved through the crowd and went to sit with Ariel and Summer. Crystal followed behind her; Summer looked at her curiously and whispered to Hazel, “Who is she? Your friend?”

“Well,” Hazel nodded. “A friend that is responsible for protecting me.”

Summer and Ariel looked at Hazel with a different expression. Hazel even had a private bodyguard, the rumors on the forum had to be true.

“Hazel, you are really…” Ariel couldn’t finish her words.

“Just like what you think,” Hazel whispered.

Summer and Ariel’s face suddenly changed again. They looked at Hazel but unconsciously backed away from her.

“What are you guys doing?” Hazel was upset.

“It seems that you have a dazzling golden light around your body. There is money flashing in my eyes. I am going blind!” Ariel exaggerated and covered her eyes.

“Yes, you have never been so cute before. I am afraid I can’t help but want to ride on your coattails.” Summer echoed.

“You two are too much!” Hazel was amused.

The three laughed and chatted for a while, then the graduation defense began.

When Hazel’s name was called, she walked to the podium with confidence. Her reply was very smooth, and she would have been more comfortable if, during her defense, the teachers weren’t so polite.

After her defense, Hazel said goodbye to Ariel and Summer and left with Crystal. As they walked out of the building, she saw a slender figure standing at the bottom of the stairs. Hazel immediately tensed up.

“Sweetheart.” Simon turned and smirked at Hazel. Even if he had a mask on, Hazel could feel how charming his smile was. She knew just how much she didn’t want to see him or his smile.

Crystal saw that he stepped toward Hazel, so she jumped in front of her.

“Go away.” Simon’s look was a little impatient. Then, he took a small gun out in his hand, “This time, it’s not a toy gun.”

“What a coincidence, ours is not a toy either,” Hazel said without hesitation. Crystal was also holding a gun.

Simon smiled, “Sweetheart, I remember you said that it’s illegal to hold a gun here.”

“Yeah, but she is legally allowed to carry a gun.” Hazel smiled. “I see it is necessary for me to call the police and tell them that you are carrying one illegally!”

Simon was stunned, he couldn’t believe that she had found a bodyguard that could carry a gun. He had a thought, and his expression suddenly turned serious.

“I just want to say a few words to you.” He was helpless.

“You can just say it.” Hazel hid behind Crystal.

“… I am not used to saying it this way.” He frowned.

“I am very used to it, and I feel much more comfortable.” Hazel sounded justified.

Simon was mad at her. Was he really that terrible?

“I only came to congratulate you on your graduation,” Simon said.

“I haven’t graduated yet.” Hazel put her head out around Crystal’s shoulder. “After getting my diploma and attending the graduation ceremony, I will graduate.”

“No time for a diploma.” Simon smiled charmingly, “Time is running out. You just need to go with me.”

“What do you want?” Hazel was even more alert.

“It’s all the best for you.” He said with a sad look.

“I don’t need that, thank you.” Hazel knew that it was never a good thing when he showed up.

“Sweetheart, be smart.” Simon laughed even more evilly, “Just one bodyguard can’t save you. I can take both of you away, even if she is carrying a gun.”

“Then try it!” Hazel said in a provocative manner as she put all of her trust in Hazel’s abilities.

Crystal didn’t say anything, after hearing Hazel’s comment, she immediately went into a defensive state, and a dangerous aura spread out from her body.

Simon was a bit shaken as he felt the power coming from Crystal, he decided not to act impulsively.

“Hey, not so tough now, huh?” Hazel proudly stood behind Crystal’s back and said, “Do you really think you can scare Crystal easily? She will break your bones at any time!”

Simon suddenly smiled, “Sweetheart, you are so cute. It’s you who seduced me–”

He rushed forward, Crystal had been tightening her body and braced for his impact, but someone jumped in front of her and began to fight with Simon.

Hazel’s face became dark, it was Joshua who was attacking Simon. She knew that Joshua would be picking her up, but she never expected that he and Simon would start fighting. The commotion attracted a lot of attention from the students inside and outside of the building.

“What happened?”

“Why did they start fighting?”

“Because of love?”

Listening to the speculations, Hazel’s face suddenly became hot. She had wanted to keep a low profile, and the fight was not going to help. She would be the focus of the campus again.

 

Chapter 415: Which One Of You Dares To Do It Again?

She knew she had to find a way to stop them from fighting, or else everyone would think that they were fighting over her. With that in mind, Hazel rushed past Crystal and jumped in between Joshua and Simon.

In the blink of an eye, they stopped fighting and grabbed Hazel’s wrist.

With each of them holding a wrist, Hazel wanted to crawl under a rock and never show her face again. She had just wanted to stop the fight, but they were holding on to her, she could feel their strength increase and knew that they would pull in different directions.

“If either of you dares to pull me in one direction or the other, I will hate him forever!” Hazel gritted.

The two men saw more and more onlookers around them and understood the situation.

“Sweetheart, just walk with me if you don’t want that to happen,” Simon smirked and threatened.

Hazel said with an imposing whisper, “That’s why you are not as good as Joshua. He would never threaten me like that!”

Simon had an evil expression as he glared at Joshua.

Joshua twitched his lips, and he whispered, “I will count to three, then we will both let go.”

“No, I have a better idea.” Hazel suppressed the mortifying thoughts of what her classmates must be thinking.

The next time they saw her, it would probably be at graduation, before the ceremony, there was no way she would not go back to the university.

“Are you… okay?” Joshua whispered.

“Absolutely and unquestionably!” Hazel said through her clenched teeth, “Whoever doesn’t cooperate, I will hate forever!”

Simon shrugged and agreed.

“One, two,” Hazel whispered, and then she yelled, “Three!”

After she said three, her wrists were released at the same time. She put out her palms, and in a swift, graceful movement, she slammed them both on the chest.

“Ah-!” Simon yelled, then stepped back a few steps and knelt on the ground. He exaggeratedly said, “Powerful energy attack!”

Joshua also fell back a few steps, his eyes full of contempt. He could not believe what a drama king Simon was being.

Everyone was shocked. They thought that it was a love triangle, with the two men fighting over a woman. Then they saw Hazel push both of them back a few steps, and one was kneeling down to her.

The onlookers wondered what kind of issues they were having, it was peculiar to see a scene like that on campus.

“O… Okay! This one was good, I’ll use it for a clip in the next movie!” Hazel raised her voice.

What? What the hell?

Everyone was stunned. It turned out that this was just a rehearsal for a movie.

Since Hazel was a senior, everyone knew about her. They couldn’t help but think that the rumors surrounding her were true, as they recalled Joshua-Hazel Pictures was said to be an experimental business run by her.

They assumed the rumors were true, and it was possible for her to experiment before actually shooting another film. However, they could not figure out what film she was planning to shoot with that kind of scene. Before they could ask her, Hazel left, she didn’t want to continue the freak show any longer.

Although her methods may have only confused people, it was better for them to be confused than to know what was really happening.

“Sweetheart…”

“Hazel…”

As the two men chased after her, they shot deadly looks at each other. There was suddenly a fierce spark in the air, and they were about to fight again.

“Which one of you dares to do it again?” Hazel spun her head around and glared at both of them.

Joshua and Simon reluctantly dismissed the thoughts and urged to attack.

“Sweetheart,” Simon quickly caught up to her and said, “You’ve seen that I am the best man to be with you. Joshua is boring and dull. He doesn’t know how to accommodate you. Look at me, I acted courteously to you!”

Joshua fought back and said, “You only let others think there are three psychopaths here!”

“Even if that’s the case, my sweetheart is willing, right? Sweetheart?” Simon said with a smile.

Hazel was mad about the entire situation. After the three of them had got away from the onlookers, she turned to Simon and said with annoyance, “What do you want?”

With Joshua present, she didn’t have to worry about what Simon would do to her. She just wanted him to say what he wanted to and then leave her alone.

“I said it. I came to take you away.” Simon said with a smile.

“Oh.” Joshua sneered. He thought he had just made it clear that Simon would stand no chance to take her away while he was around.

“Impossible!” Hazel said firmly.

Simon sighed and continued. “I didn’t say that I am taking you now. I’ve come to see you today because I have something important to tell you.”

“What?” Hazel asked subconsciously.

“I just want to talk to you alone.” Simon smiled charmingly.

“You can say it now or never!” Hazel said impatiently.

“It’s very important, a matter of life and death,” Simon said with a smile.

Joshua really hated Simon and hated him even more when he approached Hazel. However, he could not ignore anything that might endanger Hazel.

“I will wait for you in front,” Joshua whispered.

Hazel caught his sleeves in a panic, “But…”

Simon smiled while grinding his teeth. He saw that Hazel was afraid of him, but she trusted Joshua so much, it made him really uncomfortable.

“Reassured, he won’t have a chance to take you away,” Joshua said softly.

“Okay, I believe in you,” Hazel said.

When Joshua and Crystal were far enough away, Hazel said, “Can you talk now?”

“Really a cold-blooded woman.” Simon shrugged, “But, you really need to be careful now. In the last two days, someone has put a high bounty on your head, to take your life!”

Hazel was a little shocked, “Who?”

“You go with me, and I will tell you.” Simon smiled.

“Oh, I don’t think you know anyway.” Hazel sneered, “You are just lying so that I will go with you, right?”

 

Chapter 416: You Better Disappear Now

“Although I know that you are just provoking me,” Simon smiled with a bit of regret, “You have really made your point. The other party is very cautious, and I don’t really have any evidence to prove this person’s identity.”

“So, you really know nothing.” Hazel looked at him mockingly.

Simon was suddenly pissed off, and he said silently, “I have no evidence, but that does not mean that I can’t guess!”

“Then who are you talking about?” Hazel looked at him with suspicion.

Simon suddenly smiled, “Sweetheart, you are really calculating. You want to persuade me to tell you. But it doesn’t matter, I like your witty tricks. I will tell you.”

Hazel’s look became serious.

“While you were in Country F, she was with the same group that wanted to kill you.” Simon continued, “It was her who provided me with all the information related to you and why I knew that you were checking your parents’ history. It was easy to find a friend of your parents, then set up a trap to lure Joshua out of the castle. You understand what this means, right?”

“It means that the person who wants to kill me is actually near me, even someone close to me?” Hazel said.

“Sweetheart, you really are smart,” Simon said. It seemed that Hazel was thinking and had someone in mind. He went on to say, “I will give you a hint. It is a woman.”

Hazel clenched her fists.

“Now, let’s forget these unhappy things.” Simon smiled slightly. He looked at her and asked, “Sweetheart, I’m no less than Joshua when it comes to power. Why don’t you choose me? Can you two are completely involved? Or are you one of those women who have decided to keep her virginity until marriage?”

Hazel only felt a little disgusted.

Although Simon showed great interest in her, facing a man who kidnapped her three times left her on alert and afraid. Hazel said, “If I kidnapped you three times and every time I threatened your life, would you choose me?”

“I would be very willing,” Simon said with a smile.

Hazel shouted, “I am not willing! If I could beat you, I would not hesitate to beat the hell out of you!”

“Don’t you women prefer to be forced?” Simon asked with some doubts.

“You better disappear now. Your emotional intelligence will only make you sound more disgusting.” Hazel touched her temples and said with anger.

That said, Hazel turned and was ready to leave. Simon suddenly caught Hazel’s wrist and took her into his arms, and tried to kiss her.

Hazel’s eyes were wide open, and she quickly put her hand to cover her lips, as his warm lips fell on her fingers, he gently took a bite.

“Simon King!” Joshua’s face was furious as he rushed over to them.

Simon smiled very proudly, he had done it to provoke Joshua deliberately. He let go of Hazel and stepped back.

“Joshua,” He said quietly, “This is just the beginning. One day, I will take her away in front of you.”

Joshua wanted to chase him, but when he saw Hazel’s expression, he stopped and took her in his arms. He couldn’t chase Simon, it might be another plan to lure him away from Hazel so that he could kidnap her again. He could also see that she needed to be comforted, and he didn’t want to leave her upset.

“What the…” Hazel shook her head, she should have guarded herself better from Simon.

Joshua and Hazel got into the car, he handed her a handkerchief to wipe her hand.

“Hazel, I am sorry I didn’t protect you…” Joshua said.

“It’s not your fault at all!” Hazel quickly said, “It’s just that the psychopath took me by surprise.”

Joshua still looked gloomy, he suddenly took Hazel’s hand in his and kissed it gently. How was he supposed to tolerate others touching Hazel’s body?

“That…” Hazel thought for a second. In the end, she didn’t mention Simon’s name, “He said someone is going to kill me.”

She told Joshua everything that Simon had told her.

Joshua whispered, “There are very few women that know you well enough and have that kind of strength.”

Hazel squeezed Joshua’s hand as she knew what he was suggesting. It was as if they could read each other’s minds.

“I just can’t accept it…” Hazel sighed. She knew in her heart but at the same time felt that it didn’t make sense.

Hazel’s phone rang, as she looked at the name on the screen, she scowled.

She shook her head and decided she had better answer it.

“Hazel,” Sunny’s voice came from the other end, “I have discussed Joseph Residence with Susan. She has agreed to transfer it to you. When can you come over?”

She took a deep breath, clenched her fists, and calmly said, “I am free anytime.”

“Let’s plan for tomorrow then, I will be waiting for you at Joseph Residence,” Sunny said faintly.

After she hung up the phone, Joshua asked with his eyes darkened, “Sunny?”

“Yeah.” Hazel simply explained the situation.

“Don’t go,” Joshua said without hesitation. “I will arrange for someone else to help you with the house.”

“No.” Hazel shook her head firmly. She looked at Joshua seriously, “I want to go.”

Joshua’s eyes became even darker, “No, it’s too dangerous.”

Hazel frowned and insisted, “Joshua, I know it’s dangerous and that we all suspect her of wanting to kill me. We have not given her any reason to think that we suspect her. It is unlikely that she would harm me at this time, right?”

Joshua hesitated and whispered, “Hazel, Sunny is shadier and more vicious than you think. Her relationship with Mandy was definitely not as simple as they made it out to be. I even suspect that your disappearance as a young child and your father’s death may be related to her.”

Hazel was shocked. Sunny had been keeping her distance from her and then suddenly took Mandy’s side.

Hazel had thought that Sunny did that just because she was not that close to her, then she stood with Mandy and Fred for her own benefit.

 

Chapter 417: Are You Still Suspecting My Relationship With Your Mom?

Was it possible now that Sunny wanted to kill her to take Denmark Group and that she was the mastermind who had been hurting her family for over twenty years?

“But why?” Hazel asked inexplicably, “She was a foster daughter of Joseph Family, and her relationship with my mother did not seem to be fake. Could it be that she hated my father because of love, and she did everything out of revenge?”

“Even so, I really don’t believe that’s the whole story. No, I have to go there again. Even if I don’t look for clues there, I want to talk to her. I will take Crystal with me, and if you still don’t feel relieved, I will take more bodyguards with me.”

Joshua did not look happy, but Hazel seemed determined, so he knew there was no way he could change her mind.

“I am going with you.” He sighed. Besides, he couldn’t think of any other way to protect Hazel. The situation had become even scarier, whether it was Sunny or Simon, it was very dangerous.

“But if you follow me, Sunny probably won’t do anything, right?” Hazel frowned.

“Your safety is more important than anything.” Joshua sighed, “Hazel, this my only concern and my only condition. You should understand why and if I could actually handcuff you to me, so I could take you everywhere, I would.”

Hazel blushed and agreed, “Okay…”

“Good girl.” Joshua kissed her on the forehead.

***

The two had prepared a gift and arrived at the Joseph Residence. Sunny was waiting for them, she didn’t say much when she saw that Joshua was with Hazel.

She asked them to sit down and calmly said, “Joshua, I want to take Hazel to the study to talk with her alone, do you mind?”

“No.” Joshua said faintly, “Go ahead. I am going to the garden.”

Hazel winked at Joshua and eventually followed Sunny upstairs. When they got to the study, Sunny took out a folder, her eyes filled with reluctance, “This is a list of things in Joseph Residence. There are many antiques that are priceless and need to be maintained.”

“I will take good care of them.” Hazel took the list. She looked at it very carefully, asked some questions, and Sunny answered each one. Hazel didn’t notice that Sunny’s eyes were getting more and more mysterious.

After Hazel finished reading the list, Sunny said faintly, “There is nothing else here. Let’s go.”

“Aunt Sunny,” Hazel assessed the situation. She was a little nervous, but she thought for a second and asked, “You like this place very much, right? After all, I heard that Joseph Family was planning to split the property between my mother and you, but all you wanted was the house.”

Sunny paused for a while and said as if she was in another dimension, “This is the place that changed my destiny…”

“I want to know more about my mother. Was she nice to you?” Hazel finally asked.

“… She was very nice to me, and we were closer than any sisters could be.” Sunny looked at Hazel strangely and suddenly felt a little uneasy. “Let’s get out of here.”

“But I still want to know more…” Hazel said again.

The uneasiness in Sunny’s stomach was stronger. Why did she have the impression that Hazel was pestering her? Was it possible that Joshua was up to something?

“There will be a chance in the future.” Sunny looked a little cold, “Hazel, I have given Joseph Residence to you. Are you still suspecting my relationship with your mom?”

Hazel was a bit stunned. Sunny was tough to deal with, but she hadn’t received the signal from Joshua, so she had to try to stall Sunny a little longer.

Hazel was thinking quickly but kept a calm expression on her face. Since Sunny was beginning to suspect her, she had to take a risky step.

“Aunt Sunny, I think you may have misunderstood me.” Hazel bit her lip, and her eyes began to tear up. “I just feel a little sad. After all, you support Mandy and not me, even though I am the real daughter….”

There was some fluster in Sunny’s eyes, she knew that she had made a rash decision regarding Mandy. Although she was not worried about what Hazel may have suspected, the situation was not good for her. She was uncomfortable and couldn’t do anything to make Hazel suspicious.

“Hazel, you really can’t blame me for that.” Sunny said with a bit of annoyance, “In fact, I have always believed in you. And as for Mandy, I kept alienated from her the entire time, right? But she had that evidence, and then Joshua has been evading the whole issue, what could I do? I just wanted to help my sister and brother-in-law by finding their daughter. It has always been my wish, so it was easy for me to be blinded by false evidence….”

As she listened to Sunny’s making excuses and put all responsibility on others, Hazel felt a bit strange. It seemed that Sunny did not want to come clean with her.

Each time she talked with Sunny, regardless of what she said, Sunny would change her attitude. It became more of a natural awareness and almost as if she had a guilty conscience that even Hazel could perceive.

“I am just mean sometimes, I guess.” Hazel smiled.

Sunny seemed to have awakened suddenly, and she quickly walked toward the door. “As I said, since we are done here, let’s go.”

Hazel was anxious and helpless, walking behind her. Sunny walked downstairs with an ugly expression on her face, she saw Joshua walking in from outside. She looked relieved, but she had doubts in her heart about if he just walked around the garden.

“You two finished talking?” Joshua asked.

Hazel breathed a sigh of relief. She smiled and came to Joshua’s side and nodded, “Well, it’s over.”

“Let’s go,” Joshua said faintly.

They said goodbye to Sunny and left. She held onto the stair rail and watched them leave. She was deep in thought, wondering if she really overthought their visit too much when her phone rang.

 

Chapter 418: What Did You Find Inside?

She pushed the answer button and heard, “Do you want to do it?”

It was Fred who had escaped from custody.

“Joshua is personally accompanying her everywhere. Do you think you can succeed?!” Sunny whispered.

“That’s it?” Fred’s voice was full of reluctance. He was hiding, and his life was becoming unbearable. If he hadn’t had his connections in Imperial City for so many years, he probably would have been caught by Joshua.

“Keep an eye out for her whereabouts, then find the opportunity,” Sunny said with a low voice.

***

Hazel had no idea that having Joshua go to Joseph Residence with her helped her to dodge an attack. She and Joshua returned to Denmark Residence, and she finally asked, “Joshua, have you found anything useful?”

Before they went to see Sunny, they had discussed what they should do. Her mission was to stall Sunny, while Joshua said he was going to the garden but was really looking for clues that could be considered suspicious.

Sunny’s concern over Joseph Residence actually surprised him. Joshua had been to the house a few times when Cate was alive, but he was always just a guest and didn’t stay too long. He could not believe that after so many years, it looked exactly the same. In order to maintain the original look, Sunny hadn’t even installed surveillance cameras, which made it a lot easier to sneak around.

“Yes.” Joshua said faintly, “I went to the room you said.”

He was referring to the bedroom of Sunny and Cate.

“What did you find inside?” Hazel hurriedly asked.

“I found our mother’s diary in Sunny’s cupboard,” Joshua whispered.

“Really? Where is it?” Hazel’s eyes lit up.

Joshua took it out his phone and handed it to Hazel. If he took the diary, it would have been discovered, so he took photos to give them more time. Hazel looked at some of the pictures, she felt very strange. She knew it was Cate’s diary, but the content was just ordinary everyday information, she mentioned events that she and Sunny experienced together but nothing helpful. It was apparent that the two sisters got along really well.

“This… what can this explain?” Hazel asked blankly.

“This can explain a lot of problems.” Joshua’s eyes became a bit darker. “It is also a solution to some doubts that I have in my heart.”

“What doubts?” Hazel was even more baffled, “Joshua, can you give me some hints here, please?”

“Why was Mother’s diary in Sunny’s cabinet?” Joshua said, “And the content of this diary is all related to Sunny.”

“Isn’t this only going to show that they were close?” Hazel frowned, “I still don’t see anything. Am I missing something?”

“It’s not your fault.” Joshua whispered, “Some people’s thoughts are too deep. Look at the date.”

“Look at the date?” Hazel looked through it, and then her expression became serious, the dates of the diary were jumping around. She thought it was because Joshua skipped some pages while he took the photos, but she realized that he hadn’t skipped anything when she looked at them again.

The diary only contained parts related to Sunny, there were some pages with blank lines at the top or bottom, but someone erased the writing on the blank spaces.

Hazel’s face became distressed and unreasonable thoughts came to her.

“No, it’s impossible…”

“Hazel, I also investigated and found out something about Mother.” Joshua blinked, it was the time that he told Hazel. In fact, if it hadn’t been for her insistence to investigate her parents’ past, he wouldn’t have found out a lot of hidden information.

“What?” Hazel asked.

“Mother and Sunny had a very good relationship. Sunny always looked after Mother until Father appeared.” Joshua said quietly, “Father chased Mother, Sunny repeatedly tried to damage their relationship. She confessed her love to Father before Mother did, they became involved in a love triangle. However, many people said that when they started, they thought Sunny hated Father just because she was afraid that he might take her sister away from her.”

Hazel’s mouth and eyes were both wide open. She couldn’t accept it and said, “What, what the hell? Did you mean that Sunny had special feelings toward mother?”

“And there is something else you should know,” Joshua continued as if he hadn’t heard Hazel. He went on to say, “Fred used to pursue Sunny, but nobody knows what happened between them. He just changed his mind and decided to chase Cate instead. He wanted to sabotage the relationship between Mother and Father.”

Hazel sat silently. People said that Fred was a friend of her parents, but she wasn’t aware that he had chased Cate and then supported Mandy so confidently that it didn’t seem to matter to him about the friendship with her parents. If he had said that he never cared about Cate and was always in love with Sunny, it would make more sense that he would do what she asked. However, Hazel felt the entire situation was inconceivable.

“No, how could any of this even be possible?” Hazel shook her head in disbelief. “This is ridiculous!”

“The necklace was designed by Mother personally, and Sunny found someone to make it,” Joshua said quietly. “And, you said that she has never looked straight into your eyes. I think it might be because your eyes are the same as Mother’s.”

Hazel was worried. As long as there were doubts in everyone’s mind, it was a fact that more and more evidence would slowly come to light.

Hazel suddenly thought of what Susan had said. She mentioned that in order to please Sunny, Mandy used the stage name Luna, which meant moon. It was a name that Sunny had created, plus Mandy’s appearance resembled Cate, and Sunny was leaving all of her property to her.

Then she realized that Sunny hadn’t changed anything in the house, it showed how important Cate was to Sunny, but it didn’t make it any easier to accept.

“It doesn’t necessarily mean that it was that kind of relationship,” Joshua explained. “Sunny had memories when she arrived at Joseph Residence. She had been in an orphanage, and sometimes children from orphanages are more sensitive and have no sense of security. Mother treated her sister with love, and I think Sunny may have regarded her as her private property. She may have been possessive over her, and it was only when Cate was there that she would feel safe.”

 

Chapter 419: I Will Buy It For You

Hazel did not know what to say, but she had to admit that what Joshua was saying made sense.

If that was the case, it did explain a lot. It may have been that Sunny did not love Marcus but feared that he would steal her sister, so she created trouble. Even to the point of trying to kill their daughter, Hazel, on numerous occasions. After all, in Sunny’s mind, Hazel was living proof that Marcus and Cate’s love did exist. There was nothing that would stop Sunny from hating Hazel.

“If this is all true,” Hazel sighed with relief. “Why couldn’t we entice Sunny?”

“What do you want to do?” Joshua was worried, “Hazel Crowe, don’t you dare think about doing anything dangerous!”

“I haven’t even said anything!” Hazel snorted. Joshua was so concerned about her plan that he felt the need to call her by her full name.

“Don’t think that I don’t know what you are thinking,” Joshua was upset, “You can do these dangerous things!”

Hazel blinked in shock, Joshua really knew her, but she was still going to try.

“I won’t do anything too dangerous,” Hazel said in a hurry. “I just think that since she wants to kill me…”

“What are you trying to say?!” Joshua squinted.

“No, I just mean we let her think that she can kill me,” Hazel said in a panic. “Then can we catch her?”

“No!” Joshua refused.

“But it’s really not okay to keep going on like this.” Hazel frowned. She ignored Joshua and continued on, “I have thought about it. I will go to the auction, Sunny will also be there. I will bring fewer guards than usual. If she really wants to kill me, then she will definitely not miss the opportunity….”

She hadn’t finished what she wanted to say, but Joshua kissed her, she could feel the frustration in the kiss. She wanted to say more, but she stopped and looked at him with sadness in her eyes.

“Hazel, do you not understand what I said, huh?” Joshua brushed his fingers across her lips, and his eyes were dark. How could he even imagine using Hazel as bait? He would never do such a dangerous thing.

“But if you help and protect me, then she will have no chance to harm me!” Hazel said. Her anger was returning, and she said bluntly, “If you don’t help me, then I will do it myself!”

Joshua felt helpless. When Hazel was determined, there was no way of changing her mind. If she planned to do it on her own, Joshua would have no choice but to lock her up for her own safety. He thought for a moment and realized that would only be a temporary solution, he knew he had no choice but to help her.

“Okay, let me arrange it.” Joshua said, “But you must obey my plan, and you are not allowed to do this on your own!”

“Okay!” Hazel quickly blinked and smiled.

***

On the day of the auction, Hazel and Joshua rushed to the auction site. When they arrived, they saw Sunny sitting exactly where they had hoped, right next to Hazel. As they sat down, they smiled and said hello but nothing more. There was tension in the air since the last time they had spoken, it felt as if Sunny had pulled even further away from Hazel.

“Tell me if you see something that you like,” Joshua whispered in Hazel’s ear. “And, I will buy it for you.”

Hazel began to blush, she really was not used to being so intimate with him in public.

She knew they were there to put on a show in front of Sunny, so they had to be close, but she was still thankful that there weren’t too many people paying attention to them.

The first few items at the auction did not appeal to Hazel, but she unintentionally gasped when they brought out a beautiful pink diamond necklace. The diamond looked like it was about ten carats, and it put off a sense of luxury and elegance just by looking at it.

“It’s really beautiful,” Hazel said unexpectedly. All she could think was that the diamond necklace was truly exquisite.

Joshua lifted his eyebrows, he was quite surprised to hear Hazel admire a piece of jewelry. It definitely seemed to be out of character for her, so he knew she must really admire it.

He put his hand down on the display that was used for bidding on items and said,

“Well, I think it’s a little small, but if you like it.” He nodded and smiled at her.

Hazel couldn’t understand why Joshua would think the diamond was small. She just looked at him with confusion.

As bidding started on the necklace, a commotion arose. It seemed to have caught everyone’s interest. The starting price was $30, 000, and it quickly rose to $60, 000, when it began to slow down. All of the bidders thought that the necklace was stunning but was hesitant to spend so much on it.

“Number 25 bids $65, 000!”

When Joshua heard the amount increase, he frowned and hit the display again.

“Number 8 bids $70, 000!” The auctioneer shouted with excitement. He thought that the necklace would only bring in about $60, 000 and never expected it to go up to $70, 000.

Number 8? Hazel thought. She looked over at Joshua in astonishment, “What are you doing? Why do you suddenly want this necklace so badly?”

“I want to give it to you,” Joshua said with a smile.

“I didn’t say that I wanted it.” Hazel was speechless.

“That doesn’t matter. I know you want it.” Joshua said, winking at her.

Hazel’s heart felt warm. She looked at the necklace numerous times but didn’t think that Joshua had noticed and would actually buy it.

“But……”, she tried to speak. Joshua interrupted her and whispered in her ear, “Remember why we are here. If we don’t buy anything, wouldn’t it look a bit strange?”

Hazel knew Joshua was right but still, she didn’t expect him to spend that much on her. At least, Sunny wouldn’t suspect anything

 

Chapter 420: Don’t Be So Extravagant

The auctioneer shouted again, “Number 25 bid for $75, 000!”

Joshua watched as the price increased to $80, 000 and then to $85, 000.

“It seems that Number 25 really wants that necklace,” Hazel whispered.

Joshua continued to frown as the price increased. He wasn’t going to give anyone the chance to buy a necklace that he wanted to give to Hazel. He tapped the display again.

“Number 8 bids $100, 000!” The auctioneer shouted. Everyone in the room began mumbling and looking around. They were shocked by the amount of the bid and thought about bidding again, but nobody dared to bid against Number 8.

“Don’t be so extravagant…” Hazel’s lips were trembling.

“It’s okay as long as you like it.” Joshua smiled at her.

Hazel was absolutely speechless. She began to wonder, what if she told him that she didn’t like it? Maybe he could back out of the bid? No, she knew she couldn’t, but she made a promise to herself that she would need to take control of how much money Joshua spent in the future.

As the auction continued, Hazel noticed some movement out of the corner of her eye. She looked over to see that the middle-aged man who was sitting next to Joshua was gone, and a weak-looking woman, wearing a long white dress, was sitting there instead.

“Excuse me, Sir, are you buyer Number 8?” The woman bit her lip and looked at Joshua.

Hazel was stunned, she couldn’t believe how skilled Joshua was. He had attracted another love interest that quickly. Although Hazel was certain that neither she nor Joshua knew her, she continued to look at Joshua with admiration without caring about her surroundings.

Joshua did not even turn his head to acknowledge the woman. She waited a few moments with a shaken look on her face. She nodded her head slightly, smiled, and then went on to say, “My father is the chairman of Shawn Group, and my name is Katie Shawn. I really love the pink necklace that you bought. It holds a special place in my heart. Would you please sell it to me for the original price?”

Hazel just sat there listening to what Katie Shawn was saying and realized that she had been Number 25. However, Hazel never expected that someone would try to negotiate with Joshua for the necklace and stoop as low as using her father’s name to do so.

When Joshua continued to ignore her, Katie’s expression changed. She frowned, and her eyes looked teary.

“Sir, I also know that my request is very bold. This pink diamond necklace is probably just an ordinary accessory for you, but it has special meaning to me. You are so rich, surely you will not miss this one necklace. Why can’t you sell me the necklace? Don’t you think that it would be the gentlemanly thing to do?”

Hazel began to get angry. What did this woman expect? Joshua had bought the necklace, and he could do what he wanted with it. Why should he sell it to her?

Katie was putting on a good show, she wanted others to see her crying and think that Joshua was bullying her.

“Sorry,” Hazel leaned forward. She intimately touched Joshua’s hand and smiled at Katie. “The pink diamond necklace was bought by my husband. It also has a special meaning for us. It represents our unique love and affection, and seeing how it looked extravagant; such a special gift can’t be sold to you!”

Katie was surprised, she had assumed that the woman next to Joshua was a stranger with no connection to him. However, when she called him her husband and held his hand so intimately, Katie became very resentful.

She had just come home from an overseas trip and had no idea who the couple was, all she cared about was the pink diamond necklace. When Joshua unexpectedly outbid her, she secretly bribed the staff to find out where Number 8 was sitting.

She assumed that the man who bought the necklace would be a middle-aged man with a beer belly, and she could easily seduce him into selling her the necklace. She never expected that he would be so handsome.

She felt like she had fallen in love at first sight, and she was determined to win his heart. However, the flirtatious tricks she used on other men were useless when it came to Joshua.

She looked at Hazel with sadness in her eyes, “I am sorry, Ma’am, the only reason I am talking to your husband, is about the necklace,” Katie looked as if she had been persecuted. With tears in her eyes, she quietly whispered, “I just met your husband. This is really only about the necklace. Even if you misunderstood my intentions, you shouldn’t be jealous and not trust your husband.”

Hazel was completely shocked and confused. She had responded to Katie only because Joshua was continuing to ignore her, but then Katie turned the entire situation around and suggested that she didn’t trust Joshua.

Katie glared at Joshua with tears in her eyes, trying to win his approval. A flash of disgust appeared on Joshua’s face, he really disliked when women acted like this in front of him and even more so when it happened in front of Hazel.

Seeing that Hazel was furious, he gently gripped her hand and whispered, “Let me handle this.”

Hazel nodded with the agreement as Joshua turned to look at Katie Shawn for the first time. Katie’s cheeks suddenly got redder, and tears welled in her eyes. She was proud of herself, and she was going to use her best trick, pretending to be weak and sad. It worked on every man, she could lure them in, and they would promise her anything.

“You said that necklace has a special meaning?” Joshua asked.

“Yes.” Katie nodded immediately.

“Yet, you are only willing to pay the original price? It obviously doesn’t mean that much.” Joshua’s tone was full of sarcasm.

“I…” Katie’s facial expression changed. She just wanted to explain something, but Joshua raised his hand and interrupted her words calmly.

“I am not willing to sell it to you. Now leave!” With a few simple words, he expressed everything that he needed to say.