Ch. 841..850

Chapter 841 To the End

“She’s just my assistant!” Ekaterina suddenly came on stage. “Winning over her proves nothing! Only by winning me will you be qualified to say that!”

“Culture has never been used as a tool for fighting. Since Ms. Miiyagi loves embroidery a great deal, you should take in everything and seek to develop your embroidery further. You shouldn’t be using it as an excuse to trample on another country’s national dignity by distorting facts and smearing history.” Elise kindly advised.

“What I only know is that the winner is the one qualified to decide the rules of the game. After all, you’re only speaking morally from your high horse since you know you can’t beat me, am I right, Miss White?” Ekaterina said as she raised her head proudly with no intention of settling things peacefully.

Turning to Ekaterina, Elise gazed intently at her with her head high as well in response. “The people of Cittadelian would never start any trouble of their own accord. However, they are not afraid of facing troubles. Since you insist on making things clear today, then I shall disregard everything here and now to keep you company!”

As the air between the two grew tense, the program ratings soared as well. Anthony was grinning from ear to ear as he looked at the viewership that was about to break records. Suddenly, a small hand came from the side and started tugging at his sleeves. He looked down to find a tender and innocent face of Irvin looking at him.

“Aren’t you Miss White’s son? Hello little boy, why are you looking for me?” Since he was in a good mood, he showed a rare moment of patience with the child.

“Mr. Lowry, my mother told me to ask, will you stop the broadcast now?” Following his mother’s instructions given to him before the broadcast, he repeated the question to Anthony word for word.

Instantly, Anthony’s smile grew stiff as he bent down and patted the child’s shoulder. “Good boy, this is a good opportunity to showcase the embroidery capabilities of Cittadel, so we can’t just stop it whenever we want. You should go somewhere else to play now.”

“But, my mother might not win. If she loses, the viewers will think that embroidery is really a Rosepeak culture. Mr. Lowry, have you considered what the consequences are?” Irvin asked once more.

It was then Anthony stood up in annoyance. His tone grew cold and distant as he said, “This is not something a child should meddle with. In short, I believe in your mother.”

Irvin wanted to speak up once more but was interrupted by Anthony. “Alright now. How can a boy be this stubborn? Go away and stop interrupting me.”

“Well then, just remember you chose this. Bye-bye.”

Irvin no longer pestered Anthony as he waved his hand and ran away to the lounge. There, he took out the laptop he had prepared long ago. After he booted it up, he started coding on the spot. Soon after, a link about Blitzy Entertainment was suddenly shared widely on the internet. The netizens clicking on it would be brought to a website called ‘Blitzy’s Sins’ that listed the crimes that Blitzy Entertainment had committed since its establishment in great detail. Tax evasion, dual contracts, and even illegal actions taken to exploit artists were among those that were listed on the website.

Not only that, but the most obvious part of the website was the headline article about the origin of embroidery and the fact that Blitzy Entertainment knew about Ekaterina Miiyagi’s cultural appropriation but still decided to cooperate with her by attributing embroidery to Rosepeak and completely disregarding any ties to Cittadel. It would not be a stretch to say that Blitzy Entertainment was a traitor with how bad the article made them look. All at once, such underhanded methods employed by Blitzy Entertainment infuriated many netizens. This trend saw no signs of subsiding any time soon.

However, Blitzy Entertainment thought that the website was fanmade, so they liked the page and shared the page as well in order to push their ratings even further. Just like that, the broadcast and website instantly made it to the three hottest topics trending online and drew the attention of the nation.

Inside the studio, while both Elise and Ekaterina stood at opposite corners as they waited for the staff to set up the embroidery equipment, the guests were having a heated discussion on who they thought would come out on top of the match.

At the side door, two little heads with pigtails were peeking out as the two mischievously watched the stage with Elise right in front of them.

“Mommy… Mommy…” Alexia called out to her in a whisper and giggled happily when she didn’t respond.

Just then, a pair of large hands appeared from behind them and picked the two up.

“Ah—”

Just as Alexia wanted to scream in surprise, her surprise turned to joy when she saw the one grabbing them was Alexander. Hugging the man’s neck, she said, “Mr. Handsome!”

With a faint smile, Alexander walked toward the backstage with the two girls sitting in his arms, as though they were weightless dolls. As it was his first time carrying such big children, it was a strange feeling for him. Although they looked plump, they were, in fact, light. To him, they were different from Elise, as Elise weighed exactly as she looked. Looks like you can’t guess a girl’s weight just by the naked eye.

“Why did the two of you come here by yourselves? It’s not good for children to run around like this,” Alexander said in feigned seriousness.

“Well, I’m bored since Irvin is tapping away on his keyboard, so Mimi and I came out to find Mommy.” Alexia pouted.

“Tapping on his keyboard? Doesn’t he even know that his own sisters are gone? Come, take me to see what he’s up to.”

Just as Alexia said, when they entered the lounge, they found Irvin completely immersed in managing the website, as he did not even notice Alexander walking up behind him. Taking a quick browse at the website, Alexander noticed the high ratings of the website and nodded in satisfaction.

“Did you create the website yourself?” Alexander asked suddenly.

Shocked, Irvin turned his eyes to find that it was Alexander and instinctively stood up from his chair before he said honestly, “Yes.”

“Who taught you that?”

“I learned it myself,” Irvin replied proudly.

“Why are you targeting Blitzy Entertainment?” Alexander was wondering if the child was trying to trip up his mother.

“Mommy said that companies without conscience should be condemned. What I did was an act of justice.” Irvin justified himself.

It was then did Alexander realize that he had misinterpreted Elise’s intentions. She did not enter the program because she wanted to save Blitzy Entertainment; she wanted to use this opportunity to completely destroy this company that held no pride in the nation. Looks like my investment in Blitzy Entertainment is going down the drain. I should seriously contemplate Ellie’s words in the future.

Just then, his assistant called him on the phone. “Mr. Griffith, there’s a cyber attack on Blitzy Entertainment. Should we stop it?”

Alexander took a glance at Irvin before he sighed helplessly. “Let it be. This investment is already destined to be a loss.” After all, he had accidentally stood against his son and wife, so he could only eat his loss in silence. Once he ended the call, he gave Irvin a half-smile. “You are good with the computer. However, your vigilance is just too poor. I wonder how well you’d fare in a fight, though?”

Looking at Alexander from head to toe like an adult, Irvin then confidently said, “I might not be able to beat you for now, but you can’t get close to me either.”

“Oh?” Alexander grew excited. “Then, I’ll have to test it out.”

Chapter 842 Double-Sided Embroidery With Different Patterns

After everything was ready, Elise and Ekaterina began their duel at Blitzy Entertainment’s live studio. In a tense and electrifying atmosphere, each of them did their utmost to display their embroidery skills on stage.

Meanwhile, Alexander and Irvin were playing an exciting game of cat and mouse in Elise’s dressing room. The man and the boy ran around in a space of less than 20 square meters, with the former chasing after the latter while the latter tried to run away from him. Two minutes later, Alexander was still unable to gain the upper hand.

Using the chair for support, Irvin jumped onto the table while Alexander wasn’t noticing. Then, he jumped onto the sofa with movements as agile as a monkey’s. Alexander turned around to face the sofa, but the former had gotten around behind him.

Curling his lips into a barely perceptible smirk, Alexander decided to stay where he was and see what trick the little boy was trying to pull off.

The instant he got distracted, Irvin suddenly brought out a box from his pocket. Then, with a slight pull at the box, he instantly produced a fine silk string between his hands. As soon as he stopped in his tracks and stood behind Alexander, he swung the box toward the latter’s feet, causing the fine string to twist around them right away under the effects of inertia and elastic force.

When Alexander looked down, he immediately realized Irvin’s intentions.

At the same time, Irvin tightened up the string in his hands and pulled it with all his might. However, Alexander, who was supposed to fall to the ground in an embarrassing fashion, didn’t budge at all.

“Crap… Aah!” No sooner had Irvin realized he’d come across a tough opponent than the latter grabbed his shoulders and lifted him up. “Let me go!” Unwilling to admit defeat, he kept flailing his arms and legs. “If I were a grown-up, I’d have brought you to my knees by now!”

“There are no ifs in this world,” Alexander replied with a faint smile. Then, he commented, “You’re pretty clever, but it’s unforgivable to underestimate your opponent. You still need a lot of practice to overpower me.”

Unwilling to listen to the man’s lecture, Irvin kept on struggling for a moment, but to no avail. In a fit of desperation, he simply puffed out his cheeks and rolled his eyes at the former. “Hmph!”

Just then, an alarm clock sounded in the room. Alexia ran inside and picked up the backpack where the sound of the alarm clock came from, shouting, “Time’s up, Irvin!”

“Okay!” Irvin nodded seriously before turning his head to glower at Alexander furiously. “You let go of me! I gotta go find my mom. Hurry up and let go of me!”

Alexander cocked an eyebrow. “Is this how you’re begging someone for mercy?”

Irvin knitted his brows; his hands instinctively clenched into fists while hanging at his sides. Unwilling to humble himself before the man, he glowered at Alexander furiously with big, round eyes.

“You’re not even willing to say something to plead with me, huh? Seems like your mom doesn’t matter that much to you,” Alexander teased him on purpose.

Irvin immediately gave up resisting as Elise was his and his sister’s weakness. “Fine!” He shouted, “I give up! Please put me down, Mr. Alexander. My mom needs me very much. Please!”

Alexander’s nonchalant expression instantly turned serious as he slowly put Irvin down.

Upon gaining his freedom, Irvin ran over and carried the backpack on his back before running outside while taking Alexia and Mimi by the hand.

Alexander stood where he was while losing himself in thought for a long time. Having been absent from his son’s upbringing for seven years, he had thought that Irvin wouldn’t know how to choose between his family and his own interests. However, it seemed from the test just now that his son was an outstanding person. Dignity was important to men, to be sure, but it was a man’s responsibility to learn to make compromises for the safety of his lover and family.

…

Meanwhile, in the live studio, Ekaterina unsurprisingly became the first to finish her piece. She stood up and turned the embroidery frame around to show her embroidery of a Persian cat before the audience.

As the camera kept zooming in on the piece, one was even able to see clearly the fluffiness of the cat’s fur. The meticulous handling of the details and the clever use of angles made the cat’s image all the more stereographic. However, this alone wasn’t sufficient to satisfy the audience’s expectations for a top master at embroidery, so the piece was only greeted with a lukewarm response from the audience.

Ekaterina looked down at the audience while still proudly holding her chin up. After a brief silence, she sent the whole embroidery frame spinning with a wave of her hand. However, the Persian cat she had embroidered remained perfectly still while sitting obediently in the center of the embroidery frame like a living thing.

“She’s made a double-sided embroidery!” Clutching the microphone in excitement, the discerning judge began his professional commentary. “Such an embroidery technique involves the use of over 50 kinds of stitches. One has to sew on both sides of the fabric simultaneously in order to produce the same pattern on both sides of the embroidery in the end. One might as well say that only someone who’d mastered various embroidery techniques could achieve this. As expected of the top embroiderer of Rosepeak!”

Ekaterina could hardly conceal her smugness as she flashed a sidelong glance at Elise, who was still burying herself in her embroidery work. She wasn’t as foolish as Abby, who’d put all her skills to use. However hard Cittadelians tried, they’d only end up becoming a foil to her. It’s been seven years. If this woman really could defeat me, why would she wait until today? Everything at the moment is just a show for the Cittadelians who are still vainly hoping to reclaim embroidery as something that belongs to them, or perhaps it’s a conflict stirred up on purpose by the organizer for ratings’ sake. Whatever it is, it’ll only further prove that my skills are unsurpassable.

She couldn’t help but lower her head and sigh with a smile at the thought of how her popularity would rise to a new level.

Just then, Irvin reached the side entrance with his two sisters and quietly observed the situation on stage.

Seeing how Elise’s hands were still moving busily after two more minutes, the audience couldn’t help holding their breath for her.

“Don’t tell me that Anastasia is just halfway through her embroidery?”

“Sigh, it’s unlucky of Anastasia to come across Ekaterina. The latter and Abby aren’t in the same league, after all.”

“Seriously, what’s the point of her trying to play the hero? Don’t come on stage if she can’t do it! Now she’s gonna bring disgrace upon the nation!”

“Embroidery isn’t about who embroiders faster than others! Just go up on stage if you can. She at least has the courage to take on Ekaterina, but what about you? Just keep your mouth shut if you’re bad at talking!”

The audience had different opinions, but Elise wasn’t affected at all. Another ten minutes later, she finally heaved a long sigh and put down the embroidery needle in her hand under the eager gaze of everyone. “Sorry to keep you guys waiting, everyone.”

“You’ve indeed kept us waiting for a long time, Miss White. Now let’s see what kind of surprise she’s gonna bring us!” The emcee impatiently stepped behind the embroidery frame while being followed by the camera. After darting a look at the embroidery, he turned to face the audience professionally. “Miss White has made an embroidery of water lilies! I must admit, she’s really gifted in many ways. Not only is she good at playing the piano, but she’s also skilled at—”

Halfway through his speech, a commotion suddenly broke out among the audience. Looking baffled, the emcee stopped talking and looked embarrassedly at the team of directors below the stage to ask them what had happened.

The next instant, an assistant held up a white board, on which several eye-catching words were written with a marker pen. The words read, ‘Look in front of you.’

In front of me? The emcee hurriedly trotted to the front, only to be stupefied by what he saw. “An embroidery of flying birds?” Putting up his microphone, he turned to look at the audience in surprise. “Miss White has made two pieces of embroidery at the same time!”

“Could it be the long-lost double-sided embroidery with different patterns?!” The special guest stood up in excitement.

Chapter 843 It’s an Invasion, Too

“Yes, it is.” Elise admitted it openly. The instant the guest heard this, he immediately walked up on stage. After examining Elise’s embroidery, he sighed repeatedly with fascination, saying, “Marvelous! How marvelous!”

“Could you explain what is unique about such an embroidery technique?” The emcee quickly handed the microphone to the guest for the latter to explain it to the public.

The guest could hardly hide his excitement. “The so-called double-sided embroidery with different patterns involves the use of stitching methods and colors used in double-sided embroidery. Not only that, but the resulting patterns on both sides of the embroidery have to be different.

The embroidery technique involved is even more complicated, so it’s even harder to produce than ordinary double-sided embroidery. Such an embroidery technique can hardly be seen these days. Little did I expect that such a technique would see the light of day again today! What a blessing it is for our country!”

Ekaterina gnashed her teeth while she looked as black as thunder as a myriad of expressions crossed her face.

“Which means that Miss White’s work is a level higher than Ms. Miiyagi’s in terms of difficulty, right?” The emcee modestly asked for the guest’s opinion.

“It’s far more than that!” Raising his voice proudly, the guest purposely held his microphone to his lips. “Is there only a tiny bit of difference between Level 10 and Level 9 of the greatest form of martial arts in the world? No, the difference is worlds apart!” It’s been seven years now. It’s simply exulting that someone has taken the Rosepickers down a peg or two!

Meanwhile, at the side entrance, seeing that the time was ripe, Irvin quickly took out the box they’d prepared in advance from his backpack. He opened the box, after which five butterflies flew out of the box and slowly fluttered to the stage.

Under the gaze of the audience, the butterflies danced in the air. After showing off their graceful dance moves, they landed directly on Elise’s embroidery of water lilies.

The audience stood up and applauded spontaneously. “What kind of embroidery technique is that? Even the butterflies think the water lilies are real!”

“This is absolute magic!” “F*ck, if anyone dares to say that Cittadelian embroidery is unpresentable, I’ll be the first to object to it!”

The guest on stage was stunned by the sight as well. He couldn’t help but sigh in astonishment, saying, “What a skilled embroiderer who brings her embroideries to life!”

It was unsurprising that Elise won the match, upon which the audience’s national pride reached its peak.

However, Ekaterina felt offended by the sight of all this. After clenching her teeth and holding out for almost a minute, she finally turned around and was about to leave the stage with her tail between her legs.

“Stop right there!” Elise unceremoniously asked her to stay. “Are you gonna leave just like this?”

“What else do you want, then?” Ekaterina spoke English with a strong accent while still acting all high and mighty. “You should apologize to all Cittadelians for your previous remarks!” Elise said resoundingly.

“Why should I?” Ekaterina was unwilling to admit her mistakes, though. “No one in Cittadel truly understands embroidery other than you. Why should I bow to people who are weaker than me?”

“It’s you and your whole country who don’t understand what embroidery is!” Elise replied forcefully in a loud and sonorous voice. “Embroidery is something that refines one’s manners, so it doesn’t allow one to be hasty and rash. I’m only the most ordinary embroiderer in Cittadel, and there are countless other embroiderers like me.

They only eat dirt because they treat you as a guest and don’t want to sink to the likes of a buffoon. On the other hand, you want to claim embroidery as your own because you think you’ve picked up a smattering of it.

What’s the difference between such behavior and that of the Rosepicker army who crossed Cittadelian borders and invaded our country back then? It’s an invasion, too. Shouldn’t you apologize for that?!”

All the Cittadelians at the scene expressed their inner displeasure in a fever of passion, chanting, “Apologize! Apologize! Apologize!”

Seeing that the situation was getting out of control, Ekaterina staggered backstage, only to fall to the ground instantly in a moment of carelessness. Crawling on the ground with difficulty, she finally fled the live studio in humiliation, as if fearing that the audience would lunge at her and tear her limb from limb.

In the end, the live broadcast ended with the audience singing the national anthem in chorus.

At the end of the live broadcast, Abby blocked Elise’s way and held out the book that Elise had given her as a present back then in both hands. “This is supposed to belong to you.”

Instead of taking the book right away, Elise merely asked her in reply, “Do you still remember the person who gave you this book? Do you think you’ve lived up to her expectations while looking like this?”

Abby lowered her head further as she was too ashamed to respond to Elise’s words.

“I hope that you’ll think carefully about what to do next,” Elise said. With that, she took back the book and went backstage without looking back. She admitted that she had misjudged Abby, but she didn’t regret her decision to give the book to Abby back then because it was worth it at the time. As for now… Everyone had to take responsibility for their own choices, and so did Abby.

…

As soon as Elise removed her makeup, Anthony rushed in to suck up to her. “Oh, Miss White, you’re virtually my savior! You know what? Blitzy Entertainment has broken the TV station’s ratings record today! Seriously, I never thought you’d be so good at concealing your abilities.

Promise me that you’ll give Blitzy Entertainment an opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview with you after the show to talk about how you feel after defeating Ekaterina. Trust me; you’ll definitely become a national hero! Really, I can’t thank you enough for this. Just tell me what you want. As long as I can afford it, I’ll definitely give it to you!”

Elise remained unmoved with an indifferent expression. “Didn’t I let my son tell you what I wanted halfway through the live broadcast? It seems that you didn’t say the same thing at the time, Mr. Lowry, did you?”

Anthony’s smile instantly froze on his face. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, he immediately presented the excuse he had thought up in advance. “Well, Miss White, please show some understanding for me. I have to answer to the investors when it comes to a show’s production.

If the live broadcast is halted for reasons other than matters of life and death, we’ll have to lose all our money! And besides, I didn’t halt the show because I believed in your capabilities. Now everyone is satisfied, no? What is bad about letting the whole nation witness our glory?”

“What a glib tongue you have, Mr. Lowry.” Elise lowered her eyes with a scornful expression. “In that case, if I were to lose the match, wouldn’t I become a sinner for all the Cittadelians? Mr. Lowry, have you ever thought about how people are going to criticize me for that?”

Anthony smiled shamelessly. “Well, you didn’t lose the match, no? Miss White, one has to look forward. Why think about things that wouldn’t happen?”

“Save your words for the police instead.” Elise turned around right away and refused to keep on talking to him.

At the same time, a group of uniformed police officers came in with the papers. “You must be Mr. Lowry, the person in charge of Blitzy Entertainment.

It’s confirmed that Blitzy Entertainment has violated the Cittadelian Security Act in many of its business dealings. The company’s building is to be sealed up immediately, and all its property and documents mustn’t be taken away.

Also, someone has reported that you’d teamed up with foreign anti-Cittadelian forces to sell national secrets in secret. Please go back with us to cooperate with our investigation!”

“You guys must’ve made a mistake! I didn’t betray my country; I just wanted to make some money! I’m not a spy! I’ve been wronged! Get off me!”

No matter how Anthony arduously tried to explain himself, the police officers quickly put handcuffs on him and marched him off.

Elise remained indifferent from start to finish. Such a black-hearted businessman who can even disregard national dignity deserves to spend the rest of his life in jail, so there’s no reason to feel pity for him.

Chapter 844 Where’s Your Sidekick?

After Mr. Lowry was taken into custody, the police officers sealed off the entire building and everyone was evacuated immediately.

A bunch of artists blocked the entrance and refused to leave as they requested for the police to protect their legal interests. “How can you seal off the entire building just like that? What are we going to do then?”

“You should at least get them to release our wages for this week before sealing the place! Otherwise, do you expect us to beg on the streets?”

“Shouldn’t the police be upholding the rights of the people? Your actions are pushing us into desperation!” “Return the money! We want our money!”

A few hours ago, this had been an opulent and flashy high-class office, but in the blink of an eye, it had become a living hell that everyone hurled abuses at.

Elise’s entourage came out from the side entrance and they shook their heads in unison upon seeing the unfolding scene.

Throughout the seven years with the company, most of the people here had the chance to choose a different boss to work for, but unfortunately, there would always be some unrepentant people who thought that they would be able to get away with making money through illegal means for their whole lives.

Suddenly, there was some rhythmic electronic music that rang out from the open square not too far from here. At the same time, a magnetic male voice came up with a short impromptu rap.

“Yo. Check it out. Eyes on me, boys and girls across the road. You got the looks? Rushmore Entertainment’s here for y’all! We got the benefits, some thick cash for you to roll in. It’s all for y’all, all it takes is some hustle. Cha-ching!”

“Uh, take a look, take a peek at this wonderful shot. Listen up, Blitzies, you deserve a second chance. I’m the man that you need, the Chief Manager of your dreams. This is Elliot Howard of Rushmore Entertainment. Skip this chance and you’re a fool. They call me ‘Loaded’ ‘coz I am!”

Most of the crowd, including Elise, was attracted by the mind-drilling rap and went over to take a look. In less than a few minutes, the temporarily erected tents were swarmed by scores of people.

Just as everyone thought that Elliot would have a hard time handling the crowd, he suddenly leaped onto a table and calmly controlled the scene with a megaphone. “Don’t push, guys. Rushmore Entertainment is flushed with money, so as long as you’ve got the talent, we’ll take all of you! Line up, please.”

With the assurances of the boss, the unemployed crowd finally felt at ease as they obediently formed two lines. None of them complained despite the snaking queue.

At that moment, Elliot clapped his hands and leaped off the table. “That’s all sorted.”

Winona stepped forward to greet him, “Mr. Howard, why did you come over personally for this?” She was now an artist under Rushmore Entertainment and Elliot was considered to be her immediate superior.

“I’m the most iconic representative of our company, so obviously, I’d have to turn up! Besides, we’ve always been competing with Blitzy Entertainment. If I don’t turn up today, would these people trust us and accept us? Anyway, I don’t have anything else on and by showing up today, I would be able to increase the efficiency of the work you guys do. That’s why it’s a win-win situation for everyone, isn’t it?” he replied breezily.

After he had spoken, he tilted his head and noticed Elise standing not too far behind Winona. He quickly rushed over to greet her.

“Miss White, nice to meet you. I’m Elliot Howard.” He shook Elise’s hand and revealed a sincere smile. “We owe this to you. Thanks for informing my father about this so that we could arrive at the perfect time.

That’s why Rushmore Entertainment could steal the limelight by taking advantage of the police investigation into Blitzy Entertainment. We’ve managed to save a huge sum on advertising because of this. Now that we’ve taken in these artists without discriminating their history, surely they would put in more effort to work for our company. We’ve benefited greatly!”

Seven years had gone by and Elliot was no longer the young boy in the past. He had trained hard, and was now muscular and well-built. He had a mustache around his lips and his raging hormones were evidently exuded. However, there was a clear look in his eyes which was a stark contrast to his appearance.

Elise shook his hand in return. “I merely provided a simple reminder to you, but I didn’t realize that you would take such bold action and actually come over personally. It looks like I’ve got good judgment.”

“Hahaha! Well, now that you’ve mentioned it, I might not be great at the business side of things, but I’m fortunate to be extremely blessed by lady luck. I’ve ended up succeeding in every single thing that I’ve put my mind into doing so far. Thus, our collaboration will definitely be a success.” Elliot was sincere.

“I must be lucky to have successfully joined forces with you.” Elise cracked a joke with him politely.

“That is way too courteous of you.” He silently took a humble stance. “I’ve watched your live shows, Miss White. You’ve brought honor to our country and you’re a national hero. I’m sincerely impressed and I wonder if you would be willing to give me a chance to treat you to a meal? I would really wish to reward our national hero.”

“How can I say no to that?” She agreed joyfully. “That’s great!” Elliot rubbed his hands excitedly in response. “Winona, come and join us too!”

“I’ve still got another job after this.” Winona shrugged resignedly.

“Is that so?” He considered the situation for a moment before turning around to say to his personal assistant, “Sort out the matter for Winona.”

“Thanks, Mr. Howard.” Subsequently, the group made their way to a popular restaurant. Jamie was already waiting in the private room of the restaurant when they arrived.

“Here’s my idol.” Jamie stood up to greet them. “The wine’s been put aside to rest for a while. Let’s order our meal.”

Following that, he got up and walked over to pull out a chair for Elise. In the midst of his considerate action, he teased the two kids as well.

“Little Irvin, have you missed your godfather here over the past few days?”

Irvin shifted his head and dodged Jamie’s outstretched hand. “You’re not my godfather! You’re too dumb!”

“Hey! You’re such a brat. I can’t believe that you’re repulsed by me!” Jamie smacked his lips and became resigned. Well, he could not do much about the situation since he had lost to Irvin more than once.

After everyone had taken their seats, Jamie was the last one to find a seat next to Elliot. He was just about to take a sip of tea to soothe his throat when the door to the room was kicked open from the outside. Bang!

Everyone turned to look in the direction of the noise and they saw Narissa standing by the door with a furious expression. Jamie turned his head and coincidentally met her eyes. He sputtered as he nearly spat out his tea. “Why are you here?”

He paused for a moment and glanced behind her before asking, “Where’s your sidekick?”

“Since when did I have a sidekick?” Narissa looked at him with narrowed eyes. “Your fiancé. He trails after you wherever you go like a sidekick!” He purposely teased her with a shifty smile.

In response, Narissa raised the baseball bat in her hand and pointed it at him as she rushed in his direction. “I’ll side-kick your head off first!”

Jamie instantly got up and hid behind Elliot. “Bro.” Elliot placed both palms together and humbly pleaded for mercy, “Please just do me a favor and stop this debacle in front of Miss White.”

Narissa scanned the table and took a look at the people present before putting away the baseball bat. “I’m just showing respect for my idol and my godchildren. You’d better behave yourself. Otherwise, I won’t show you any mercy!”

“Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! Everyone here has the same thoughts!” Jamie moved his head cunningly and sat on Elliot’s other side.

At that point, the two of them were like cats and dogs around each other. They were seconds away from clashing despite their distance from each other.

As a result, Winona hurriedly lifted her wine glass and tried to ease the tension. “How about a toast?”

“Hold on,” Elliot interrupted Winona. “Hold on for two more minutes. Someone else is coming.”

Chapter 845 A Forced Kiss Upon Jamie

At that moment, the phone atop the table rang. Elliot took a glimpse at it before scampering outside with it. “Who is it? Why is Mr. Brown in such a hurry?” Elise could not help the curiosity.

“Definitely, it’s not a guy,” Jamie analyzed. “He only smiles at Jack. As to explain why he is acting so suspicious that we wanna beat him, isn’t it obvious?”

As he had expected, Elliot soon returned while holding hands with a petite woman. Yet, an air of awkwardness stretched in the room the moment they discerned who the woman was. She was the person who imitated Elise’s works and sold them, Stephanie.

It was nothing more but Elliot’s one-sided crush when Elise left at that time. No one expected him to be this devoted until his feelings came to fruition.

Winona, who knew nothing, raised her glass to congratulate her boss for the good news. “Congratulations, Mr. Brown. I’m thrilled for you both. Our boss has finally settled down.”

Despite being a billionaire, teen-like embarrassment and joy tinged on Elliot’s face when he heard that.

He held and lifted Stephanie’s hand to break the news excitedly. “Taking this opportunity, I would like to announce some good news. Stephanie and I are getting engaged next month. We are going to build a family of our own!”

Stephanie smiled lightly; she was the same demure lady she was seven years ago. Just one single glance of her elicited one’s protective instinct.

If they were in the same picture seven years ago, they would seem like a childish teenage couple. However, they looked like the perfect match right now.

“Congrats.” Winona clapped his hands innocently.

With a long face, Jamie wiped his hand with a cloth and tossed it onto the table before rubbing salt in Stephanie’s wound. “Awesome, but what should I give as a present? You guys have everything. Oh! What about SQ’s art work? If my memories serve me right, Miss Stephanie loves her work, right? ”

“Jamie, stop joking. Don’t put Steph in a tough position, will you?” Elliot became serious.

“Then, what about my boss? Elliot Brown, where is your pride, man? There’s so many women out there. Why must you hang up on this one? Have you forgotten how my boss treated your family?” Jamie delved his hands into his pockets.

This woman has been defaming Elise’s name for half of her lifetime, and you’re clearing her name by pretending that nothing happened? Ridiculous! Even if it’s Lincoln, I’m not letting this happen!

“How could I forget that? Once she’s back, Stephanie and I will meet her in person to clear things up. I just can’t give up on my happiness, can I?” Solemnity settled in Elliot’s eyes with a weight of mixed feelings and guilt.

At the same time, Stephanie’s expression was all scrunched up. She did not have the courage to stay any longer at the face of the fracturing friendship between the men.

“I told you that I’m not the one for you. I’m leaving.” With that being said, she made herself scarce.

Elliot chased her without a second thought and stopped her in the lobby. “Steph, didn’t we promise to face it together? I will be with you. Have the courage.”

“And how am I supposed to do that? We grew up in different environments and we see things differently. I’m the only one who belongs to a different world here. We’re… not the same—”

“We’re the same!” he interrupted her terrible thoughts. “As long as we have the will, we can be the same. It’ll make our relationship stronger. There’s nothing we cannot solve together. Trust me, Steph. I really wanna give you a home. I can’t imagine myself loving another person other than you.”

“Sorry. My mind’s a mess right now. Let’s reconsider our engagement.” She shrugged off his hand and left without looking back.

With that, Elliot stood riveted on the spot as the rain poured over his good mood.

…

On the other hand, Narissa sauntered out of a hotel when everyone almost left after the meal. The second she fished out her phone to call for a cab, a bouquet of roses appeared in front of her eyes. She looked up to meet Jayden’s gentle gaze.

“How did you know that I’m here?” A baffled Narissa kept her phone.

The couple had always been on a sketchy journey during the past few years, which she assumed was what people called ‘a suitable partner’ for each other. However, after hanging out alone for a few days, she realized that there was nothing unacceptable when her life was devoid of Jayden.

In fact, the burden weighing on her lessened and she could be her true-self without the worry of betraying someone. Moreover, she did not want to be a good person who always followed the rules. That would be boring.

“Anyone that joins us will have a tracking device in their phone in case of any emergency. Have you forgotten about that?” Jayden reminded gently.

“Narissa.” He took a step forward. “I gave it a thought and I am sure that I like who you are. I’m attracted by your appeals and I should embrace your imperfections too. Couples are meant to have to fight in order to fit the puzzles together. I’m willing to change for you. I will try my best to compromise.”

“Let’s end on good terms.” She only had faith in destiny. “If two people are truly meant for each other, why would they condescend to make changes? That’s not love.”

“Yes, and I’m not changing just for the sake of it! I can accept you and all of you. Isn’t it enough to prove how much I love you?” he insisted stubbornly.

Narissa had no intention to hurt anyone, but it seemed like she could only be honest that she did not love him anymore. There was no impulsive urge of love within her when Jayden was in front of her.

Still, Jamie bulldozed in the situation before she could even say anything. Noticing the weird atmosphere enveloping them, he insensibly pulled her to a side and whispered to her, “I told you not to always act strong, didn’t I? Boyfriends are different from homies. You should learn how to be soft to your boyfriend. I guarantee that he will give in to your antics.”

Some people tended to platter on and on about their theories when they had never gotten into a relationship. Then, they would be all clumsy when they dated someone for real.

Jamie was exactly one of them; the more confident he was in his love-related analysis, the more he was proving that he knew nothing of it.

As such, Narissa shot him a sideway glare with a murderous glint.

This silly boy. Can’t he see that I’m trying to dump that guy? Why does he keep pushing me to Jayden? Is he having fun going against me? He didn’t even help me when I was in a bind in the store! I do like him a little, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to punch him!

“What?” Jamie retreated upon sensing the murderous aura.

“What are you guys talking about?” Jayden came up to them.

She took a glance at him before grabbing Jamie’s collar and pulled him so that his lips crashed onto hers.

Jamie failed to react in time as he held his breath instinctively while his ears were burning red.

S-She kissed me?!

Chapter 846 Giving Birth to a Little Brother for Me

Two seconds later, Narissa shoved Jamie away to turn her head to face Jayden. “Do you know how I feel now?” “Y-You guys…” Jayden’s mouth gaped in surprise. With fire blazing in his eyes, he swung a punch at Jamie without a prelude.

Jamie failed to respond in time as his head swayed sideways and he covered his cheek out of instinct. “F*ck!” When he turned to look at Jayden, the man already threw the roses away and left. The sight of his swollen cheek pricked Narissa’s guilty conscience.

However, she decided to take the upper hand of the situation by preempting him. “Haven’t you always liked to be the peacemaker? This is the price you gotta pay to be that.”

She wheeled around and left cooly, leaving the man huffing and puffing. He spread his arms while muttering, “Why? Why?” She stole my first kiss for a buckler, and why do I have to take the punch for no reason? How is this logical?!

The doorbell resounded not long after Elise arrived home. After opening the door, she saw Narissa holding a bag of wine bottles outside.

“Mind drinking with me?” Narissa could not put a finger on the reason behind the urge to confide in Elise. She knew that her limbs drove the car all the way here on their own accord and she gladly entered the house.

Elise welcomed the guest and a wine party began in the living room on the first floor. Narissa drank for a while until Elise inquired, “Is something on your mind?”

Narissa polished off the remaining wine before slamming the wine bottle onto the table. It took her a while to lift her head. “I don’t know how to put it, but I think I’ve fallen for someone who doesn’t like me.”

Smiling in acknowledgement, Elise soon collected herself and spoke softly, “Does that person know about it?”

“I’m not sure.” Narissa opened another bottle of wine with fumble hands and downed half of it.

“Let me see. So, you like someone, but you don’t feel happy about him not catching it. You’re feeling troubled instead. Hiding your feelings is obviously not your way. Why don’t you confess?” Elise guided Narissa slowly.

“He’s a cheeky brat. If I confess, he’ll laugh at me for sure!” Narissa’s cheeks puffed up in vex.

“If he laughs at you when you’re serious about something, then you can assume that he’s immature. Trust me, liking someone isn’t something embarrassing.” Elise patted the back of Narissa’s hand in comfort.

Narissa looked at her dubiously like a lost child in a maze. “But I’m a girl. If I confess to him, doesn’t that mean I have to be the one to make advances? That’s embarrassing.”

“Why do you think that way?” Elise chuckled. “Who says that boys have to be the one who confesses? Are there rules for one to fall in love? Think about it. You’ve come this far by doing everything that your heart tells you to do. Isn’t that cool? Isn’t it painful to hesitate your decisions now?”

Narissa heaved a deep sigh. “I’m just worried that we can’t stay friends after my confession fails.”

Elise corrected her sitting posture in silence while thinking, She’s bringing it up lightly, but it seems like she likes Jamie more than I thought.

The fear of losing someone was one of the signs of loving someone. Instead of just liking someone, she was considering the possible outcomes of all the bad things that could happen.

“Why are you keeping quiet?” Narissa’s eyelids flickered flusteredly. “Do you think the same too?”

“Hmm… That is not entirely impossible.” Elise tried her best to be neutral. “But there’s a possibility for anything to happen. If you confess, you might regret it, but you might not regret it too. However, if you don’t, you’ll regret it someday for sure.”

Narissa fell into rumination for a while. Clearing her throat, she moved to Elise’s side to question meekly, “Then, Elise, how high is my chance if I pursue Jamie?”

Now that Elise’s speculation hardened into a conclusion, she smiled without uttering a word. Narissa blushed instantly as she swayed Elise’s arm. “Stop smiling. Tell me, tell me. If you keep this act up, I’m not going to tell you anything from today onwards—”

As soon as she said that, Alexia barged into the living room and pivoted in circles in front of them. “Oh yay! Godmother is in love with Godfather! I’m gonna have a little brother soon!”

“Lexi!” The red on Narissa’s face perfused her neck. “Cut it out!”

“Not a chance. I’m gonna say it out loud! Godmother, when are you going to give birth to a little brother for me with Godfather?” Alexia questioned seriously.

Embarrassed, Narissa was all flushing red as she glanced at Elise, who watched the scene silently. Next, Narissa rose to her feet and chased the little fellow. “There’s no little brother! What are you talking about? You heard it wrong!”

“No, I didn’t! You and Godfather are going to give me a little brother!” Alexia’s mouth ran on as her legs did not stop running.

“Lexi! Listen to me!” “I will! Only if you give birth to a little brother for me!”

As the little feud stirred, Elise and Narissa’s talk had to come to a stop. It continued until late night, so Narissa crashed at their place for the night.

…

The next morning, Narissa got up from bed with messy hair after which she went downstairs while yawning with closed eyes. Once she descended the final flight of stairs, she opened her eyes to see Jamie sitting on the couch.

Mistaking it as a dream, she blinked her eyes numerous times. It was not until she noticed his expression remained awkward that she realized that it was the reality. Hurriedly, she primped her hair and behaved like a cool girl.

“Jamie Keller, are you my shadow? Why do you keep showing up everywhere I go?” She picked on him on purpose. He raised his eyebrow. “I think I should be the one saying that, though. I’m here to have a serious talk with Elise. Why are you here?”

The sudden verbal battle could be deemed as their silent agreement to avoid the topic of the kiss they shared last night. “What does that have to do with you?” She turned her head sideways.

“Save it, then. I’m not curious in the slightest either.” He rolled his eyes. At that moment, Alexia descended the stairs in excitement while shouting, “Godfather! Godfather! Let me tell you a secret!”

A cold air shrouded Narissa when she heard that. Before she could think of anything, her eyes widened as she sprinted toward Alexia to carry her away before the little girl threw herself into Jamie’s arms.

In spite of being controlled, Alexia could not zip her mouth. “Godfather, she—”

“What’s wrong?”

“Hmm!” Narissa managed to cover Alexia’s mouth before she could say anything to Jamie. “Narissa, enough. Isn’t it enough that you’re always fierce at me? Can’t you be gentle to our princess?” He was helpless.

“Gentle? Never heard of that.” Narissa flicked her hair. “Oh, I promised to bring the kids out. You guys are going to have a serious talk, right? Enjoy the peace at home.”

“Irvin! Hurry! We’re going to the amusement park!”

These siblings could never be parted; they had to go anywhere in pairs.

Chapter 847 Confession

In the end, Narissa brought the kids out. Entering a high end dessert shop, they ordered everything on the menu. She only breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing Alexia immersing herself in the taste of the desserts. “Lexi, I treat you great, don’t I?”

“Yup! I love you the most, Godmother!” Alexia did not even look up as she scooped a spoonful of the dessert and handed it to Narissa. “Have some too!”

“Can you keep the secret for me now?” Narissa finally stated what was on her mind.

“Now? I can.” Alexia was a sly child. Now that she was being treated to something delicious, everything was on the table. Yet, nobody knew what would happen after the meal.

Narissa was very satisfied to hear this, so she turned and smiled at Irvin. Before she could say anything, Irvin already knew her thoughts. “Don’t think you can bribe me with just this.”

“You rascal. Knowing what’s on my mind even without looking at me?” Despite feeling somewhat defeated, Narissa peered at him. “Say it. What do you want?”

“What I want is very expensive, though,” Irvin stated while typing on his tablet.

“That’s funny. Do you see this?” Narissa slapped her purse. “I’m loaded. You really think I can’t afford what a child like you wants?”

Irvin kept his tablet away and smiled slyly. “Remember what you said…” he recited in a cheerful tune. Suddenly, Narissa felt chills on her back as a bad premonition crossed her mind.

Half an hour later, the trio exited the shop with a literal bag of cake in their hands before heading to a boutique computer mall. Under Irvin’s guide, they headed straight to a computer located in the middle of the hall.

This computer was displayed in a window case and free from the discounted price tags that the other computers had. The only thing there lay was the gadget and a couple of queue stands sectioning the area.

“This is it.” There was a hint of excitement in Irvin’s usually stoic expression. “This is the newest computer system to come out of Diajan. With a chassis crafted from titanium, the net weight is under five hundred grams. It houses a four dimensional wireless sensor and boasts insane operating speeds. It’s… almost perfect.”

“You sure know a lot.” Narissa did not think too deeply into it as kids often liked the newest technology. However, she hesitated upon seeing the price tag. “It is a bit steep…”

“That’s why I said you can never buy me over, Godmother.” Irvin acted as if he had predicted this.

“What kind of expression is that?” Narissa felt like she was challenged. “It’s not like I’m not willing to spend the money. It’s six million. If I do buy it, how will I explain it to your mommy? It’ll give her the shock of her life.”

From Narissa’s knowledge of Anastasia’s wealth, even though she was already financially independent, she was not that rich to the extent where she could spend six million on a toy.

Naturally, money was of no issue to Narissa, but she was afraid of it being over Anastasia’s usual consumption, thus leading to her spoiling someone else’s child.

“Forget about it, then. I’ve almost saved up the required amount anyway. I think I’ll have a nice long chat with my godfather when we get back,” Irvin purposefully said this while turning around, wanting to leave.

The moment Narissa heard that he was going to talk to Jamie, she panicked as she grabbed onto the child’s clothes. “You brat. Why are you walking away? It’s not like I’m not going to buy it!”

“I’m not forcing you to.” Irvin smirked.

“Yes, yes, I’m buying this for you because I want to.”

Feeling her heart break, Narissa took out a black card and handed it to the salesperson. “We’ll be taking the computer. Use this card.”

“Of course, Miss. Please wait here while we wrap it up for you.”

“Thank you, Godmother.” Irvin did not forget his manners.

“Your way of thanking me sure is expensive. Remember to ask for your mother’s permission before tinkering with it, you hear me?” Narissa tried to salvage what was left of her dignity.

Yet, Irvin only interrupted her, “You’re a scaredy cat, Godmother!”

Just as Narissa lowered her head, Alexia looked up and burped.

Finding this amusing, she reached out and wiped the cream from the corner of Alexia’s mouth. “You brat. You’re talking bad about me right after I treated you to some cake. It’s not right for you to forget about gratitude, you know?”

“Nope. Lexi’s right. Back at Mesdra, whenever there was a student that had a crush on someone else in her kindergarten, they would confess no matter what! Even if they succeeded or failed, they still expressed their feelings. Yet, you don’t dare to voice your thoughts out despite being an adult, Godmother. How shameful!”

Stunned, Narissa froze up upon hearing this.

She was also once an individual that broke the norm to pursue what she wanted. Yet now, she was less than a child.

Didn’t I escape from my family just to find love? Now that I’ve confirmed my feelings, why am I still tip-toeing around like this?

At that moment, Narissa, who looked at Irvin with bright eyes, came to a conclusion in her heart.

…

The trio took a cab back to the Whites with Elise sending Jamie out. Closing the door, Narissa went up to him with a fierce gaze.

Jamie, who knew that something bad was about to go down, was prepared to run. “You don’t have to send me off any further, Elise. Let’s chat on WhatsApp later!”

He started to run upon saying that. “Stop right there, Jamie Keller!” Narissa shouted at him, making him stop. Although he did not run anymore, he did not turn around either. “What do you want now?”

Narissa looked at Elise with an awkward gaze before mustering her courage. Walking up to Jamie, she hesitated for quite a while before finally squeezing out the words. “Can you turn around?”

She wanted to be a little more gentle, but she could not control herself. Helplessly, Jamie turned around. “Now that I’ve turned around, what more orders do you have?”

Although the two had always communicated in such an unserious way, Narissa still hesitated upon seeing how aloof he was being.

Lowering her head, she could not bring herself to say it as she turned to Elise and her children in the end, seeking for help.

“You can do it, Godmother!” Alexia shouted.

“Say it!” Mimi raised her arms weakly, cheering her on.

Guessing what was happening, Elise looked at Narissa with an encouraging gaze and nodded, hinting that she should act on it.

Narissa, who got the support she needed, breathed in deeply and decided to face the issue by facing Jamie head on. “Did you feel anything from the kiss yesterday?”

“And here I thought something happened.” Jamie felt a bit more relaxed now. “Did you kiss me to piss Jayden off? It’s not my first time being used in this way. As friends, I can accept being sacrificed like this for your future happiness. No more of that, though.”

“You really can’t tell at all?” Narissa clenched her fists nervously.

“I can. I can tell that Jayden likes you very much. You’ll be a happy couple.”

“That’ll be up to me.”

Suddenly, the conversation fell into a dead end again.

“Okay. I was wrong. Is that fine now? No matter what you choose, I will support you.” For some reason, Jamie conceded.

“Do you swear by it?”

“I swear.”

“Then, I chose to be your girlfriend.”

Huh???

Chapter 848 Preparation of Betrothal Gifts

“Say yes! Say yes!” “Kiss! Kiss! Muah!” Joining in on the fun, Alexia and Irvin shouted loudly from afar. “Nonsense!” Jamie rolled his eyes at them awkwardly with fidgeting hands. “Enough of this, Narissa. You can fight with your boyfriend all you want, but don’t toy with me.”

“Who’s toying with you?” Narissa replied loudly in a stern tone. “I’m serious about this. Jamie, I like you, and I want to be with you. Can you give me a chance?” “Y-Y-You… What kind of woman confesses to a man?” Shocked, Jamie started to stutter.

“A woman like me will do. So, is it a yes?” Narissa tried to humble herself with an expectant gaze, unexpectedly adding another feel to her strong front.

“I… I…” Not able to squeeze out a sentence, Jamie rolled his eyes around before suddenly shouting and pointing behind Narissa. “Look! A UFO!”

Subconsciously, Narissa turned around. Yet, except seeing Elise and the others, the sky was all clear. Instead, Jamie, who saw that she was distracted, ran away as fast as he could. When she turned around, she only saw Jamie’s back disappearing around the corner.

“Jamie Keller!” Narissa stomped her foot out of anger. “You coward! You can run, but I’ll chase you to the ends of the earth! I will catch you one day!”

Before she confessed, she was already mentally prepared to be rejected. Of course, if Jamie had said yes, it would have been the best outcome. Yet, who knew that he would come up with a third outcome?

Sadly, this was the person she fancied, so she could only hold it in. Elise, who was laughing at this hilarious scene, loudly teased her, “You can do it! I believe in you!”

“We believe in you too, Godmother! Haha…” Alexia joined in on the fun. Blushing, Narissa walked back to them. “Don’t you laugh!”

“I’m not!” Alexia covered her mouth, but she could not hide her upturned mouth and eyes.

Finding this amusing, Narissa said, “Just laugh. Don’t hold it in.”

With a snicker, Alexia eventually laughed loudly. “You are my only godmother. You’re meant to be with my godfather anyway. He’ll return soon enough. Don’t worry.”

“Finally, some music to my ears.” Narissa patted her head gently. Just as they were about to head back into the house, a gray van slowly pulled up. The car door opened and a man alighted from the vehicle.

Although the man looked young, he had slicked-back hair and a long coat with gold-framed glasses, as if he was trying to hide his age and look mature.

The moment Mimi saw him, she ran over and hugged him. “Brother! Sob…”

She then cried sadly while nobody knew what was on her mind. Irvin, who saw this, had a solemn expression. Kneeling down, the man hugged Mimi, allowing her to cry for a while before holding her hands to stand up. He then looked at Elise.

“You must be Miss White. I’m Mimi’s older brother.” The man had a pensive expression. “It must have been hard on you, having to take care of her.”

“It’s nothing. Mimi has been very obedient, so I didn’t have to do much.” Elise had seen him in photos before, so she did not doubt his identity.

“Actually, I came back a few days ago, but I was busy dealing with family affairs. Now that those issues have been settled, I plan to bring Mimi back with me this time. We’ll be migrating abroad for good,” the man briefly stated his intentions.

Elise was understanding. “It’s natural for a family to want to be together. I believe everything will get better.”

The man gave a subtle nod before uttering to Mimi softly, “Mimi, shall we go home now?”

“Yes.” Mimi nodded. “Thank you so much for all you’ve done.” After the man bade his farewell, he held Mimi’s hand while walking to the car. After getting into the car, Mimi jumped down again and ran up to Irvin before taking off the necklace she had been wearing all this time and gave it to him.

“Irvin, don’t forget about me. I will look for you again.”

Before he could react, she gave him a quick peck on the cheek and ran off. Seeing the car drive off, Irvin gripped the necklace in his hand tightly in a daze. Even until the car was gone, he was still looking in that direction absentmindedly.

Now that there was a chance for revenge, Narissa teased him on purpose. “Oh my. What’s wrong, Irvin? Are you sad that your wife is gone?”

As Irvin snapped back to reality, he silently headed back into the villa with a melancholic look.

“I guess he really is sad.” With a sly face, Narissa lightly prodded Elise using her elbow. “Looks like you’ll be preparing that bridal gift sooner than you expected.”

…

On the first day of school, the White siblings were assigned to F class. The first lesson was Literature and they had to learn a poem. Although it was the appropriate difficulty level for Alexia, it was far too easy for Irvin as he did not even bother to pay attention. Instead, he was secretly sifting through calculus contents.

Finally, the class ended where Irvin stretched his body before intending to bring Alexia out for a walk to relax.

The moment they stood up, they saw a chubby male student sitting in a weird position. He had a bare foot on the chair while he placed his hands beside his legs, mumbling something.

“Hey.” Irvin frowned. “What are you doing?”

The chubby boy heard him and turned around without moving his limbs. Breathing in, he looked at him innocently. “Are you calling me?”

“Isn’t that obvious?” Irvin looked at him haughtily. “Who permitted you to take your shoes off in class?”

“I’m sorry for that. Haha. When I’m finished with this math question, I’ll put them on immediately.” The child looked like an honest person.

Irvin found his breathing restricted as he was taken aback by his response. What a weird one.

“My math is excellent. Do you want me to teach you?” Alexia was very enthusiastic.

“Sure.”

“No,” Irvin interrupted them stoically before putting all the newly issued school books onto her desk.

With a mountain of books in between them, Alexia and the chubby kid lost the chance to communicate.

This satisfied Irvin. This kid must have touched his feet with his hands. You want to approach my sister? In a million years.

Not thinking too deeply into it, the kid put his legs down and saw the calculus book on Irvin’s desk. “Calculus? I know about that. My mom does that everytime she goes to the beauty salon. When she calculates that she filled her coupon card, she exchanges it for gifts!”

“Are you illiterate?” The student on the right in glasses commented, “This is calculus. It’s like a lower version of calculate. It’s like microorganisms.”

“Oh.” The chubby kid believed it.

“Shut up!” Irvin could not take it anymore as he put the book under the table. “Are both of your brains filled with glue?”

“You talk just like my father. He always says that my brain is full of water.” The kid laughed happily, not getting angry at all.

“You fool. Your father is insulting you!” the kid in glasses said this sternly.

Chapter 849 Who Did You Say You Want to Fight With?

“Is that so?” Chubs sniffled, his eyes innocent. “But he is right.” “I agree.” Specky nodded in agreement before he turned to look at Irvin. “Why aren’t you saying anything?”

Irvin’s face was devoid of emotions as he asked in return, “Does your conversation help bring any progress to mankind?”

“What do you mean?” Chubs didn’t understand Irvin’s words. “As a man, you have to have foresight in what you say and do, so that you are prepared for the future. Do you understand?” Irvin frowned, his expression gradually becoming impatient.

Hearing that, Chubs and Specky looked at each other with a dumbfounded gaze. “Forget it.” Irvin rolled his eyes as he gave up. “Why did I even expect you guys to know what I am talking about?”

Specky and Chubs stared at him blankly before they came huddling together, their chins raised to look at Irvin. “Do you know what he is talking about?”

“Nope, but it sounds like it makes sense.” “Same.” A commotion could be heard coming from the corridor outside then. “The bully from Class D is here again!”

Following this announcement, all the students who were freely roaming around outside ran into the classroom and returned to their seats obediently.

At the same time, a boy who looked sturdier than Chubs walked in from the front door arrogantly. He was dressed in branded clothing from head to toe, and his head was raised arrogantly. After staying at the podium for a while, he walked straight toward Irvin and the others.

As he came to a stop beside Irvin’s table, he turned to look at Alexia. “You are the new transfer student, yeah? The name’s Ymir Zorn. I am the vice-principal’s grandson. You will be my girlfriend from today onward.”

Even though Alexia was baffled by the random proclamation, she still respectfully stood up and bowed slightly. “I apologize, Ymir Zorn. I have no intention to date, but thank you for liking me.”

“I will buy you anything you feel like eating if you are my girlfriend. I will even give you the full set of character skins in games. You will be my one and only princess from now on. Bet you can’t say no now!” Ymir relentlessly pestered her about it.

At that point, Irvin, who had been holding his anger in, completely blew his top. “Do you not understand human language or something? My sister doesn’t like you, and neither does she want to be your ‘princess’. Now piss off!”

“How bold of you to offend me! You best believe I will get my bros to beat you up!” Ymir arrogantly spat as he balled his fists up threateningly.

“Ymir!” Chubs stood up when he could no longer watch this go on. “Don’t bully the new kids!”

He weakly sniveled again when he warned the bully, making his threat sound as empty as it could be.

“What is this? Are you picking a fight with me, Snot Monster? Bring it on!”

Ymir was half a head taller than Chubs, and with his robust body, he made Chubs stumble when he bumped the boy with his body.

Fortunately, Irvin was vigilant enough to catch Chubs by the waist and save him from falling.

After Chubs had found his footing, Irvin finally lost his patience, and he slowly stood up from his seat.

Chubs and the rest of them looked about the same height, but now that Irvin was standing among them, he looked like an adult bullying a few children.

He was a head taller than Ymir. After he walked up toYmir, he slightly lowered his torso, and with squinted eyes, asked in a dangerous tone, “Who did you say you want to fight with?”

The overwhelming pressure frightened Ymir so badly he gulped. As his throat bobbed with difficulty, he unknowingly took a few steps back.

Specky happened to see his chance then, and he abruptly stretched out a leg to trip Ymir, who immediately fell to the floor on his behind.

“Hahaha!”

The students of the class who had always been bullied by Ymir started to look on at the scene unfold before them.

Enraged and embarrassed, Ymir balled his fists and scrambled to get up, his face completely flushed. “Just you wait!” he barked before retreating.

“We will wait, alright! Thbbt!”

Following the silly faces Chubs’ pulled, the entire class began to turn rowdy.

“How noisy.”

Irvin couldn’t stand the noise in here, and so he told Chubs and Specky to keep an eye on Alexia while he went for a stroll outside.

He came to a bamboo forest after walking around the school. From a distance, he noticed a few older boys, who were surrounding a girl taller than them, taunting her with hurtful words.

“Are you sure you are a girl when you are so fat and big?”

“Tell me, what should I eat to grow to your size? Haha!”

In all honesty, the girl wasn’t fat at all. She did look more developed than girls her age, but she definitely was in the normal weight category.

After all, boys would be boys. They would always shoot their mouth, seemingly not knowing how terrible their current actions were.

Irvin wanted to come forward to help the girl, but he didn’t want to waste time. After thinking for a while, he hid behind a stone pillar and shouted, “The dean is coming!”

The boys immediately went away the moment they heard him.

Even though the girl had been saved, the harm was done. She only stood there as she quietly sobbed.

She might never forget the humiliation she had to suffer today.

After Irvin looked on from afar, he finally couldn’t help but walk over and give her his handkerchief.

The girl raised her head dazedly when she saw the handkerchief. As she met his deep eyes, a trace of confusion flashed in her eyes. It was as though her eyes were wondering about how Irvin was willing to get involved with a girl as round as a ball like her.

“Others will only belittle you if you feel inferior to them. Other than that, no one can make you lower your head.”

Irvin turned to leave after throwing out these esoteric words.

He was bad at being sentimental.

However, he had only turned a corner when he came across Ymir, who had brought his friends along to exact revenge on Irvin.

“Hey, Fancy Boy! Where do you think you are going?!”

Ymir had brought five sixth-grade boys, all of whom were about the same height as Irvin, and he was full of confidence at the moment.

It’s six against one, he quietly cheered. We are going to win for sure!

When Irvin saw them, he stood there and slipped his hands into his pocket, his expression irritated. “How many more friends do you have? Why don’t you get them all here?”

He had just uttered those words when the girl in the bamboo forest came running in their direction. However, she stopped in her tracks not far behind Irvin when she saw Ymir and his gang.

When Ymir saw her, he swiftly raised his voice and ordered, “Meatball! Mess Mr. Fancy Boy up, or we are going to mess you up!”

Conflicted, the girl only clutched the handkerchief tight and lowered her head without replying.

Ymir immediately yelled at the people behind him to make a move when the girl only stood there. “Hit him! I will get whoever catches him a month’s worth of snacks!”

As soon as he said that, a few boys stepped forward and rushed at Irvin.

They rolled up their sleeves and clenched their fists before they aimed at Irvin’s face. They had zero hesitation when they were going to send punches in his direction.

Irvin narrowed his eyes slightly, and his fists hiding in his pockets balled up even tighter. He lowered his center of gravity a little as he prepared to evade the incoming attack.

To his surprise, he heard a set of heavy footsteps behind him when the first boy’s fist inched toward him.

Irvin felt a breeze blow past him, and in what seemed like the blink of an eye, the girl behind him had already come in front. She was now holding the boy by his wrist before she hoisted him up.

“You can bully me all you want, but you can’t touch my friend!”

Chapter 850 I Swear I Have Good Intentions

After speaking, the girl forcefully hurled the boy out, knocking down Ymir and the other boys who were still rushing forward. They were a moaning mess on the floor the next instant.

“You will have to go through me if any of you wants to bully him from today onward!” The boys were so startled they scurried off when she warned them with a gloomy face.

She only wiped that look off her face after she watched them leave. She soon turned toward Irvin, but she quickly put that pitiful look back on as she lowered her head and pressed her lips tightly together.

After a momentary silence, Irvin diffused the awkwardness by stating, “Are you… from the track and field team?”

Seemingly surprised by his question, the girl lifted her head to glance at him before shaking her head in denial.

“Why don’t you join the team, then?” He explained objectively, “You have the talent and physique. You should have a bright future in this. Humans are not useless, and there is only one life to live. I hope you don’t waste your time on those clowns again.”

After he said that, he started walking away, leaving the girl behind as she fell into deep thought while looking at his retreating figure.

She couldn’t help but wonder if he was an angel…

…

The school bell finally rang.

The class teacher of Class 12F had just told the students to sit down when Ymir, followed by a bespectacled old man in a suit, swaggered into the classroom.

“Mr. Zorn!” The class teacher immediately greeted the man.

“Hmm.” Fenris Zorn nodded in reply. He then nudged the spectacles resting on the bridge of his nose and overlooked the whole class. “Which one of you is Irvin White?”

“It’s him!” Ymir forcefully pointed to the third row, his eyes squinting in delight.

He then mused to himself, My grandfather is the vice-principal, after all. Now this will teach them not to cross me!

Irvin proceeded to stand up with his hands resting in his pockets. “Yeah?” he hummed nonchalantly.

“Just look at your behavior!” Fenris’ face turned sullen. “Students who are arrogant, unbridled and have their heads filled with violence like you don’t fit the standards of international schools like ours. You are hereby expelled!”

Ymir immediately crossed his arms in front of his chest and bobbed smugly when he heard this.

Hmph! Keep acting cool like that. I will have you regret bullying me!

After walking over, the class teacher quickly pled for mercy on Irvin’s behalf in a small voice. “Ms. Dolly, the Dean of Admissions, gave special instructions to take proper care of the White siblings, Mr. Zorn.”

At that, Fenris glanced at the teacher from the corner of his eye. His gaze had turned even colder and his face was emotionless. He then heavily knocked the table on the podium with his knuckles. “This is a school! No one can try to manipulate how things happen here. It will only ruin the school’s reputation in the future if we keep a student with corrupt morals who injured five boys so badly on his first day of school. I will never allow such a thing to happen!”

“But, Mr. Zorn—”

“You can stop now. Have the Dean come to me if they have a problem with the decision.”

After Fenris cut the class teacher off, he told the White siblings to leave the room with him.

The class teacher immediately phoned Dolly then.

…

In the vice-principal’s office, after the children remained standing for five minutes, Irvin led Alexia to the sofa aside, where he told his sister to sit. Alexia obediently did as told.

Seeing this, Fenris boomed, “What are you doing? Did I say you are allowed to sit?”

“What authority do you have over us if you are going to expel us?” Irvin retorted impatiently. He proceeded to sit down beside Alexia before he calmly took out his laptop.

“You—” Fenris stood up in anger and was about to curse when he opened his mouth. However, he held back after thinking about his identity. “Very good,” he mocked with a calculating smile on his face. “Keep up with your disobedience.”

His smile was gone swiftly after he said that.

His grandson was right. Irvin was a disrespectful little punk who disregarded rules. He should be expelled!

They were but young children. It was to be expected they would be punished at home when they got home after their insolence caused them to be expelled from an international school.

As the vice-principal, Fenris only needed to stay noble and respected while the children’s parents physically taught the kids a lesson.

The broader the smile on Irvin’s face, the harsher the punishment he would receive when he was brought home later.

Just the thought of this made Fenris scoff.

Swiftly after, Fenris’ subordinate knocked on the door and walked into the office. “Did you need me, Mr. Zorn?”

“Yes. You are the person in charge of the students’ applications, right? Come here and help me delete these two students’ files.”

As Fenris spoke, he automatically stood up and let his subordinate use his computer.

After the subordinate sat down, it didn’t take long before he opened the student information system and found the corresponding information.

“Irvin and Alexia White from Class 12F. Delete them!” Fenris couldn’t help but remind him.

Hearing that, Irvin started typing quickly, filling almost the entire room with the sound from his keyboard.

Meanwhile, Fenris clenched his jaw in anger and vented on his subordinate. “Do it faster. Don’t tell me you are even slower than an elementary student?!”

The subordinate nodded and only did as he was told. After selecting the siblings’ names, he promptly clicked the ‘delete’ button.

Oddly enough, their names were still there in the Class 12F’s student list after the page was refreshed.

At that point, Fenris was starting to get impatient. “What is the matter?” he demanded.

“The Internet connection must be lagging. Let me try again.”

After wiping the cold sweat off his forehead, the subordinate repeated the same thing, only for the names to still be there even after he attempted twice.

“Sir, I can’t delete them.” He started panicking out of fear that he would be involved in this.

“Are you hearing yourself?! You are in charge of this, but you are telling me now that you can’t get it done? It seems to me you are trying to help them! Get up. I will do it myself!”

Irvin and Alexia were sitting off to one side when they watched the man’s antics, and they glanced at each other smilingly while using the laptop to hide their youthful faces.

Fenris did exactly according to the procedure, but it still showed the same result when he refreshed the page.

“What the h*ll?” he cursed.

Only then did the subordinate let out a sigh of relief. “Perhaps the children aren’t meant to leave the school. How about we keep them here for two more days, Mr. Zorn?”

“Shut up!” Fenris glared at the computer screen and poked at the keyboard like he had taken some stimulant. “I refuse to believe that I, the vice-principal, can’t expel two mere students!”

He kept deleting and refreshing after that.

It went on for more times than anyone could keep track of before a buzzing sound could be heard, and the screen suddenly turned dark. Fenris was so startled his glasses almost fell off his face.

The screen soon lit up again, but it was now filled with strange letters that somewhat looked like they were from the English alphabet. Fenris was extremely confused at this point.

Right then, Irvin closed his laptop and stood up impassively. “That is Italian. It also means ‘b*stard.'”

“B*stard?! How dare you say that about me?!” Fenris immediately lost his temper.

“Did I?” Irvin stretched his arms to the sides and innocently shrugged. “I swear, Mr. Zorn, I only wanted to do the translation for you. You are the one who took it personally.”

“You!” The older man slammed the table. As he stood up, he roared, “Did you do this?!”