Ch. 1181..1190
Chapter 1181: How Is the Brain Formed?
_1 With a belly full of anger, Wendy Clarke signed her name.
She was angry but could not vent it at Ethan Zhekova, so why not vent it at other people?
After forcefully signing her name, she nonchalantly threw her pen onto the table.
The pen hit the table loudly and bounced quite high up.
The receptionist at the front desk jumped in surprise and looked at Wendy Clarke with astonishment.
...
Wendy Clarke gave a cold snort and then went in.
Once she reached Ethan Zhekova’s office, she switched and put on a different face.
After knocking, she heard Ethan Zhekova invite her in.
Peggy Lewis entered, donned with a pleasing smile.
Hankering the door, she turned around only to get slapped by Wendy Clarke.
Wendy Clarke was dumbstruck.
Her head even hit the door because of the force of Ethan Zhekova’s slap.
With a loud bang.
It startled the assistant outside and the passing staff.
They had no idea what was going on inside and why such a loud noise could be heard.
Wendy Clarke’s head was buzzing, where it hit was in severe pain, it felt like a concussion.
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The slap by Ethan Zhekova left a burning pain on her face.
The area he hit, from the cheek to the corner of the eye, was affected.
The corner of Wendy Clarke’s eye was in so much pain that it felt like splitting apart.
Even her vision was spotted with white flakes.
“What are you doing!” Wendy Clarke, covering her face, asked with shock and confusion.
Who would have thought, Ethan Zhekova grabbed her hair and forcefully dragged her to the sofa.
With a strong shove, Wendy Clarke fell onto the sofa.
“How is the situation with Pingla Academy?” Ethan Zhekova asked coldly.
Wendy Clarke was caught off guard, forgetting about her pain, she looked at Ethan Zhekova in shock.
How did he find out?
“Did you set your sights on my brother?” Ethan Zhekova said coldly, “Did you think I was useless, and not as good as my brother?”
Right now, Wendy Clarke did not have time to ask how Ethan Zhekova knew something.
If she was to ask that would be admitting to it, wouldn’t it?
So Wendy Clarke had to say, “You’re mistaken, I went to see Cindy.
My parents are there too, if I was really going for your brother, I wouldn’t possibly bring my parents along, would I?”
Ethan Zhekova was not going to listen to her.
Both Cindy and Samson Zhekova had made it very clear, especially Samson Zhekova’s disdain which was so apparent and sincere.
He could tell when it’s an act and when it’s the truth.
“Wendy Clarke, I’m telling you, only you’re stupid, don’t think everyone else is, to be toyed in the palm of your hand,” Ethan Zhekova gripping her hair, pulled her towards him.
With a sudden release of the grip, Wendy Clarke fell back: “Even if you look down upon me, I’m smarter than you.
You, a stupid thing like this, dare to look down on me?”
“Apart from that, you should understand, there’s no one in the Zhekova family that you can manipulate and toy around,” Ethan Zhekova coldly uttered.
“You really are mistaken, I didn’t…” Wendy Clarke denied sternly, “I don’t know who told you but I really didn’t.”
“No?
Who do you think told me?
Of course, it’s Samson Zhekova who told me himself” Ethan Zhekova didn’t mention Cindy Clarke.
Not that he’s so righteous to help Cindy Clarke keep it a secret.
But at this moment, he felt Wendy Clarke didn’t need to know.
Otherwise, wouldn’t that signify that he is just a clown?
He said it as if Samson Zhekova personally told him, making it seem like there’s a close relationship between him and Samson Zhekova.
Wendy Clarke shouldn’t be playing around freely between him and his brother.
If Wendy Clarke was harboring any thoughts towards Samson Zhekova, they have no secret between them brothers, he would know immediately.
Wendy Clarke’s face changed, how did Samson Zhekova know?
“Samson Zhekova is the headmaster of Pingla Academy, you all were waiting for him at the entrance, wouldn’t he know about it?
Whatever you all said at the entrance, someone has long reported it to him,” said Ethan Zhekova.
“Do you know what he said about you?
A woman like you, only a fool would want you,” Ethan Zhekova didn’t want her, so he’s not a fool.
“What do you think you are in the eyes of men?
You’re really conceiting yourself, thinking you’re the heartthrob, men of the Zhekova family are at your disposal?
Whoever you want, you get?
I looked down upon you, you thought others would fancy you?
Thought everyone was a fool, did you?”
“In the past, how you gave birth to a child for Mr.
Lopez for money.
A woman who has been laid by a pig like that, do you think others would want you?”
The words of Ethan Zhekova were too blunt, the men Wendy Clarke had been with each had their disdainful attitude towards her, but no one had ever really told her.
They were not afraid of disappointing Wendy Clarke, instead, they thought it was pointless to waste their breath on her.
They were just having a fling, and would disappear once it was over.
Why bother telling her things and wasting their breath?
Wendy Clarke was genuinely shocked, but she didn’t believe it.
She was surprised that Ethan Zhekova even knew these things.
“So, you, a stupid thing like you, even think I’m stupid?
I was going after you, wouldn’t I know all those ugly things about you?” said Ethan Zhekova, “When I watch you pretend to be pure and innocent in front of me, I find it both hilarious and disgusting.
Moreover, your acting is not great and you lack self-awareness.”
Listening to how Ethan Zhekova belittled her, Wendy Clarke could hold back no longer.
Even if she wanted to please Ethan Zhekova, endure all the humiliation, at this point she couldn’t hold it back, “Then why are you still with me?”
“Since I disgust you, why would you still touch me?
Why keep me?
Why help me?” Wendy Clarke asked.
She quickly thought about it in her heart, Ethan Zhekova was probably infuriated and hence, said whatever came to his mind.
After all, she did thought to cuckold him.
“Of course it’s for Cindy Clarke’s sake.
You thought if it wasn’t for your sister, I would look at you once?” Ethan Zhekova scoffed.
Wendy Clarke exclaimed in shock: “You like Cindy Clarke?”
Ethan Zhekova: “…”
This is truly a fool!
“Why would I want a married woman with a child, who can’t be any benefit to me?” Ethan Zhekova looked incredulously at Wendy Clarke.
How in the world does this dumb woman’s brain function?
“Cindy Clarke is very important to Adrian Zhekova.
I want to deal with Adrian Zhekova, using Cindy Clarke is easier.
Want to deal with Cindy Clarke, getting your help is easier too.
You’re just the means and the way for me to deal with Cindy Clarke.
Do you get it now?”
“Aren’t you afraid that I’ll tell Cindy Clarke or Adrian Zhekova these?” Wendy Clarke retorted.
He thinks he isn’t foolish by revealing this?
Ethan Zhekova gave a cold laugh, “Do you think that if you told them they would treat you any better?
Don’t you get it?
No matter what you do, good or bad, Cindy Clarke wouldn’t share the slightest benefit with you.”
“As long as Cindy Clarke is not willing to, Adrian Zhekova would definitely not treat you any better.
You telling them would just end up being unprofitable and upsetting me, do you understand now?” Ethan Zhekova said coldly.
Chapter 1182: Fight Repeatedly, Fail Repeatedly, Defeat Repeatedly, Struggle Repeatedly_1 “No matter what plans I may have against you, you think Cindy Clarke can help you?” Ethan Zhekova sneered, “In the end, not only will you fail to win them over, but you will end up offending me.
What are you hoping to gain from doing all this?”
“With your low level of intelligence, and you have the audacity to call others stupid?” Ethan Zhekova disdainfully looked at Wendy Clarke.
Wendy Clarke forced a smile, and grasping Ethan’s hand pleadingly, said, “Of course I can’t go tell Cindy and Adrian about this, we’re suppose to be on the same team.
Why would I do anything that might harm you?”
“What I said earlier was merely out of curiosity.
I found it curious that you would so confidently tell me all this, so I simply asked.
I believe curiosity is a part of human nature.
I had no intention of going and telling Cindy Clarke and Adrian Zhekova what you told me.” Wendy Clarke swore to God, “Really, you have to believe me.”
“We’ve always been in this together.
...
Even if you think our relationship is based on mutual exploitation, I don’t see it that way.
I consider you one of my own.” Wendy Clarke said anxiously, “I would never betray you.”
“Alright, I’ve shared my intentions with you.
As long as you follow my instructions, you’ll be well rewarded.” Ethan Zhekova slapped his hand, like giving her an enticing sweet date.
“Like before, if you ever need help with your restaurant business, I can assist you.” Ethan Zhekova said coldly, “From this point forward, we’re partners.”
Wendy Clarke paused for a moment: “Partners?”
This…
Is this not even a friends with benefits arrangement anymore?
Wendy Clarke felt that without any emotional ties, a simple partnership would lack stability.
But Wendy Clarke didn’t realise that even with emotional ties, stability is not guaranteed.
Doesn’t Ethan still verbally abuse her?
Doesn’t he still look down on her?
Wendy never understood that at the core, Ethan just doesn’t respect her.
“That’s right, we’ll be purely partners from now on.” Good thing Ethan is just as sick of her.
Wendy Clarke is not all that attractive.
If he wanted beauty, he’d go for top models.
Each one of them, prettier than the last.
While they may all look pretty similar after cosmetic surgery, they are still better looking than Wendy Clarke.
Plus, they’re only after money.
They know their place, unlike annoying Wendy Clarke.
He knows too well that while she may be stupid, she’s incredibly ambitious.
Nothing is scarier than someone who is both stupid and has ambitions that far outstrip their intelligence; such a person is hopeless.
Ethan Zhekova certainly didn’t want to trouble himself with Wendy Clarke.
Since he’s sick of Wendy anyway, this is a good opportunity to break things off.
Better to stop her from building castles in the sky.
Just thinking about it gives Ethan a nauseating feeling.
“By the way, you’re free to be with whoever you want.” He also didn’t want the feeling of being cuckolded by her.
“However, I warn you not to target anyone from the Zhekova Family.” Ethan Zhekova starkly warned her, “You’ll get nowhere, no one in the Zhekova Family will be interested in you.”
Wendy Clarke felt deeply insulted.
Was she really so insignificant?
“Of course, if you want to find someone else, wait till our partnership ends.” Ethan Zhekova continued, “But let me remind you, whether it is now or in the future, don’t mention me.
Don’t go around flaunting my name to assert your dominance.”
“If you can keep a low profile, our low-key partnership will continue.
I’ll help you the same way I did before.
But if you insist on being high-profile and flaunting my name around…”
Ethan Zhekova now knows all too well what kind of person Wendy Clarke is.
“Then our partnership ends.
I’ll find other ways to deal with Adrian Zhekova, it’s not like you’re my only option.” Ethan Zhekova said.
“Okay, got it,” Wendy Clarke quickly agreed, “Don’t worry, I definitely won’t use your name to do anything but…”
“Weren’t we fine before?
Even if you don’t admit that I’m your girlfriend.”
Seeing the sarcastic look on Ethan’s face, Wendy quickly corrected herself: “No, it’s not that you don’t admit it, but in your eyes, I’m nothing.”
Ethan finally revealed a somewhat satisfied expression.
No matter the reason, Wendy had finally learned to be aware of her own insignificance, and that was good.
“But despite that, weren’t we happy together?” Wendy Clarke slowly, gently touched the back of Ethan’s hand.
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Ethan Zhekova disdainfully shook off her hand, “The only one who was happy was you.
Why else would you keep trying to cuckold me?”
“I don’t have the habit of sharing a woman with other men.” Ethan Zhekova said coldly.
Even when he was with models or social media celebrities, he made sure that during their time together, she was only with him.
He didn’t care how many men she had been with before or after him.
And the same went for Wendy Clarke.
But Wendy Clarke dared to be so greedy, she even tried to seduce Samson Zhekova.
Especially since Samson Zhekova was his brother, this was something Ethan could not tolerate.
“That won’t happen!
I promise!” Wendy Clarke hurriedly reassured him, “Like I said, it’s a misunderstanding.”
“I don’t care, I’m through with you anyway.” Ethan Zhekova said, “You better agree to my terms, or we won’t even have a partnership.”
Wendy Clarke never thought that in trying to attract Samson Zhekova’s attention but failing, even the unstable relationship she had with Ethan Zhekova was now in jeopardy.
What on earth was going on here?
At what point did she do the wrong thing?
Moreover, due to Ethan Zhekova’s attitude, she didn’t dare to flirt with Samson again.
After going around in circles, Wendy Clarke felt like she gained nothing but lost a lot.
Moreover, during the partnership with Ethan Zhekova, she wasn’t allowed to find anyone else either.
Yet, she couldn’t do without Ethan Zhekova’s help.
After coming to Belfard, she found out that Ethan Zhekova was the most capable person she had met so far.
Even if she found someone else, it would never be this convenient.
After some thought, Wendy Clarke had no choice but to temporarily agree.
After all, as long as she partnered with Ethan Zhekova, she would have the chance to reconnect.
As long as there was a chance to reconnect, she would have the opportunity to plot again.
Ethan Zhekova didn’t possess Adrian Zhekova’s mind-reading abilities.
He had no idea that Wendy Clarke was so persistently ambitious.
Despite repeated failures, she keeps on fighting.
Such tirelessness and unwillingness to admit defeat was quite touching.
***
Samson Zhekova was unaware that Ethan Zhekova had already done him a favor by making Wendy Clarke give up pursuing him.
Meanwhile, he was having dinner with Cindy Clarke.
Suddenly, Cindy received a video call from Adrian Zhekova.
Cindy answered the video call.
She had a concealed stand on the back of her mobile phone case.
She simply pulled it out, and the phone could be placed on the table, making it extremely convenient.
Chapter 1183: Weren’t They Just My Soon-To-Be Father-In-Law And Mother-In-Law?_1 After answering the call, Cindy set her mobile phone at an appropriate angle.
Seeing that Adrian didn’t seem to have lunch prepared, she asked, “Have you eaten yet?”
“Not yet.
Today’s meeting ran a bit late, so it just finished.” Adrian replied, “I ordered lunch, it should be here soon.”
“Why are you eating so late, aren’t you hungry?” Cindy asked again.
“Not hungry, don’t worry.
Didn’t you prepare a bunch of snacks for me?
I have the cookies and Snowflake Crisps, along with beef jerky you made for me.” Adrian said, while secretly patting his stomach hidden under the table.
He felt as if he had put on a bit of weight recently due to Cindy’s feeding.
...
His abs were on the verge of giving up.
He really should be more cautious.
He can’t gain ‘marital bliss weight’ before even reaching middle age.
Without his good looks to attract Cindy, it just wouldn’t be right.
Thinking about how Lyke, who was much older, could still maintain a good figure, he determined not to lose this battle.
Just then, Sheldon delivered his lunch.
Adrian quickly stated, “Lunch is here, don’t worry.”
“Let’s chat while we eat.” Adrian suggested, “Even though I can’t be with you, this way, it’s like we’re eating together.”
“Alright.” Cindy nodded.
Since Cindy didn’t have her earphones nearby, she had to use speaker mode.
Samson could hear every word Adrian spoke.
He thought to himself how nauseatingly sweet the couple was.
Not seeing each other at noon was commonplace, so what was so irregular about not having lunch together?
Even for couples in the throes of passionate love, no one insisted on having lunch together on workdays.
Moreover, they were married and spent every day together, weren’t they afraid of getting tired of each other?
It never crossed Samson’s mind that he could still be made to witness PDA even when having lunch with Cindy.
Cindy remembered that Samson could hear everything, worried that things might get awkward if Adrian said something lovey-dovey aloud, she informed Adrian beforehand, “I’m having lunch with Samson.”
She turned the phone so Adrian could see Samson as well.
Adrian nodded and addressed Samson, “That’s good.
Look after your sister-in-law at university.
Why don’t you have lunch with her every day when I’m away?
This will also help develop your bond.”
This way, wouldn’t Cindy have one more person to be close to in the Zhekova Family?
Samson: “…”
“So, you’re going to keep video calling my sister-in-law for your joint lunches?” Samson asked.
“Of course.” Adrian replied, puzzled why Samson would ask such a no-brainer question, “My appetite is spoiled if I don’t watch Cindy eat.”
Samson: “…”
Was he destined to be bombarded with PDA daily?
At least Adrian’s mood had improved.
But now Samson was the one losing his appetite.
“Ha, ha,” Samson scoffed cynically, “Today was just a coincidence.
From now on, better come over in person at lunch time.”
Cindy turned the view on her phone back to herself, Adrian then asked, “What happened between you and Samson in the group chat earlier?”
Cindi surely couldn’t help Wendy find a match.
She wouldn’t even consider it.
She’d tolerate Wendy’s behavior herself but never extend it to Samson.
Adrian knew this very well.
Cindy then relayed the morning’s events to him.
Adrian scoffed, “I didn’t expect Wendy to be so ambitious.
Don’t worry, Ethan definitely saw her messages.
Given his temperament, he won’t allow Wendy any further chances to bother Samson.”
Adrian unapologetically said, “You’re too smart!”
Samson: “…”
He had just taken a bite of rice and almost spat it out.
“Thankfully Fourth Uncle moved fast and got together with Peggy, otherwise Wendy might have set her sights on him.” Cindy complained.
Lyke, who narrowly escaped a fate worse than death, had been counting down to Saturday.
Eager to get his chance, he quickly accompanied Peggy to Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis’ house.
This time, the gifts Lyke brought were even more than last time.
During his last visit, he wanted to make a good impression on Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis due to his intentions towards Peggy.
This time, however, he came with the mindset of meeting his future in-laws.
As the future son-in-law of the Lewis Family, Lyke wanted to be as formal as possible.
If he could bring valuable gifts, he would spare no expense.
On the way, Peggy sensed that something was different about Lyke, but she wasn’t sure if it was just her imagination.
“Are you nervous?” Peggy asked.
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Unexpectedly, Lyke nodded his head.
Peggy was totally surprised: “You can actually get nervous?”
In her mind, Lyke was a man who would never get nervous, no matter what the situation was.
He could always handle everything calmly.
No wonder she felt that Lyke was a bit different today, as if he was on edge.
“Of course I’m nervous.
I’m meeting my future father-in-law and mother-in-law.” Lyke responded.
Peggy: “…”
When did they become her future parents?
How come she wasn’t aware of it?
“Were you nervous last time as well?” Peggy asked.
“Last time was different.
I was entirely focused on making a good impression on your parents, I didn’t have time to be nervous.” Lyke explained, “Moreover, Adrian and his family were there, it felt more reassuring with my family around.
”
“But this time, I, I am going to meet my, my in-laws.” Lyke stopped as he was interrupted by Peggy.
“Wait a minute, didn’t you just call them your prospective in-laws?” Where did that ‘prospective’ go?
“Why use an extra word?
It just makes things a bit awkward.” Lyke explained.
Peggy: “…”
Wait, aren’t you nervous anymore?
You even took advantage.
Isn’t there a difference?
They had just arrived at the doorstep of Peggy’s parents’ house.
Peggy was about to get off the car, but Lyke stopped her, “Wait a second.”
“What’s up?” Peggy inquired.
“Let me take a moment, do a little preparation.” Lyke answered.
Peggy hadn’t seen Lyke this nervous before.
It reminded her how she would also be this nervous when meeting Lyke’s elders.
Feeling a sense of empathy, she remained silent and waited for Lyke to finish his preparations.
However, after waiting for a while, she saw Lyke pull out his phone and take a selfie using the car’s rearview mirror.
Then he posted it on his IG stories.
Peggy thought to herself, isn’t he supposed to be nervous right now?
Is he still in the mood to post IG stories?
Driven by curiosity, Peggy went to check his IG stories.
The angle from which Lyke took the picture was quite artistic.
He had only captured the rearview mirror.
In the mirror, his eyes were reflected.
Looking at the caption, it read: “Visiting the future father-in-law and mother-in-law, feeling nervous.”
Peggy could clearly feel the proud undertone in his post.
Chapter 1184: Young man, what do you do for a living?
_1 I thought to myself, ‘As nervous as you are, you still managed to show off.
That’s just like you.’
Lyke Zhekova didn’t even wait, many had already replied instantly.
Everyone was very familiar with the process of liking and commenting.
First they liked the post, then they commented on it.
Adrian Zhekova: “Hang in there, Fourth Uncle.
...
Nervousness is normal but you’ll feel better after this.”
Zane Hamilton: “I can’t share any experience as a veteran because my Mother-in-law was extremely pleased with me from the start.
She encouraged Olivia to be with me.
As for my Father-in-law, he likes whatever my Mother-in-law likes.”
Zane Hamilton added a smug emoji with sunglasses after his comment.
Of course, the Father-in-law Zane Hamilton referred to was Randy Walker.
No one would think of Olivia’s birth father, James Davis.
Lyke Zhekova scoffed and turned to Peggy Lewis, saying, “I’m thinking about blocking him.”
Bertrand York: “I had it easier, I skipped the whole meeting the prospective parents-in-law part.”
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
Benjamin Smith: “@Clifford Wells, Fourth Uncle Zhekova is about to meet his future parents-in-law, do you feel envious?
Remember to get some tips from him later.”
Jeff Sanders: “@Sonny, you’re really missing out on a lot of life experience.”
Clifford Wells: “…”
Lyke Zhekova went to chat with Clifford Wells privately: “Sonny, check out my IG stories.”
Clifford Wells: “Why are you doing this again?”
“I saw it.” It was a while before Clifford Wells replied, “Aren’t you going to pay a visit to your future parents-in-law?
Based on the photo, you should be downstairs of Peggy’s parents’ house right now.
Aren’t you going up yet?
Doesn’t look like you’re eager to meet your future parents-in-law.”
“…” Lyke Zhekova felt that what Clifford Wells said made a lot of sense.
He hoped that Peggy wouldn’t get angry because of this.
Lyke Zhekova quickly looked back to gauge Peggy’s reaction.
Seeing her waiting patiently without any sign of irritation or impatience,
He was deeply touched.
Lyke Zhekova then ignored Clifford Wells and turned to Peggy Lewis, saying, “I feel much better now, let’s go.”
Peggy Lewis had seen Lyke Zhekova’s IG stories as well as comments from people like Adrian Zhekova.
She thought that if this would help Lyke Zhekova relax, then it was pretty good.
“Ok.” Peggy Lewis nodded and got out of the car.
The things Lyke Zhekova bought, to put it bluntly, filled up the entire trunk.
So, even if Lyke Zhekova didn’t want to burden Peggy, he couldn’t carry everything alone.
He had to let Peggy help carry some.
Lyke Zhekova specifically tried the weight and gave Peggy some that weren’t too heavy.
“Aren’t you going to reply to your IG stories?” Peggy Lewis asked.
“It’s fine, we don’t need to reply to the IG stories immediately, we can do it when we go home.” Lyke Zhekova replied, “I primarily posted them to relieve some of my nervousness.”
Peggy Lewis silently added, ‘Actually, you mainly did it to show off.’
It was really a coincidence that they ran into Aunt Watson, who once wanted to introduce Peggy to some unreliable person.
It’s unknown what kind of fate this is, Lyke Zhekova only came twice and both times he ran into her.
“Peggy.” Seeing them, Aunt Watson looked even more curious, “You’re here to see your parents again.”
“Yes.” Peggy nodded.
Last time there wasn’t enough time to ask properly.
This time seeing Lyke Zhekova, Aunt revealed a look of surprise, oh my, he brought quite a lot of stuff.
Taking advantage of the situation, Aunt Watson asked, “We met last time but didn’t really know each other.
This is…”
Peggy Lewis was about to answer but Lyke Zhekova couldn’t wait and stepped forward.
“Hello, I am Peggy’s fiancé,” Lyke Zhekova announced.
Peggy Lewis: “…”
Fiancé?
When did this happen?
Lyke Zhekova was inwardly smirking.
He had met this Aunt Watson on his last visit.
But he did not have enough courage back then.
Although he deliberately let people misunderstand that Peggy was his girlfriend when he was carrying her on his back,
In front of Peggy, Lyke Zhekova really did not have the thick skin to do so.
So last time, even though he somewhat let Aunt Watson misunderstand, Lyke Zhekova himself did not admit it.
Now that everything was official, Lyke Zhekova couldn’t pass up such a good opportunity.
Aunt Watson’s mouth twitched, her smile became somewhat strained.
Fiancé?
Peggy has a fiancé now?
“Oh, when did this happen?
Congratulations!” Aunt Watson quickly said with a smile.
Again, before Peggy has a chance to speak, Lyke Zhekova said,”I have been pursuing Peggy for a long time.
I’m here to meet my future parents-in-law, feeling a bit nervous.”
“Hehe!” Aunt Watson chuckled, looking at the gifts in Lyke Zhekova’s hand.
Unlike last time when things were brought from the family mansion and did not have any packaging,
This time Lyke Zhekova bought everything himself, everything came with matching packaging.
So, Aunt Watson noticed right away, fancy and probably quite expensive.
“Young man, what’s your profession?” Aunt Watson asked again.
Since she was older, she didn’t worry about appearing rude.
Instead of gossiping behind people’s backs, Aunt Watson took the straightforward approach and asked openly.
Lyke Zhekova didn’t bring business cards today; actually, most of the time, the business cards were prepared by Wallace Martin.
At his level, his face is the business card.
Those who don’t know him are simply not at the same level.
Those who do, certainly do not need his business card.
Lyke Zhekova was indeed quite embarrassed.
To introduce himself would be kind of awkward.
However, Aunt Watson’s use of “young man” really made Lyke Zhekova quite happy.
Lyke Zhekova answered very patiently, “Do you know Majestic?”
As expected, Aunt Watson appeared a bit confused.
Lyke Zhekova then listed a few restaurant names.
People usually have direct contact with restaurants.
As for the company behind the restaurant, most are relatively unfamiliar.
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Unless the company’s name is the same as the restaurant’s name.
But that is not the case with Majestic.
Upon hearing the names of these restaurants, Aunt Watson immediately nodded, “I know, I know.
I have eaten at several of them.”
Restaurants under Majestic are medium to high-end, with prices within the acceptable range for most people.
Ranging from around 200 per person to 400-500 per person.
While people might not dine there regularly, they can certainly afford to.
They wouldn’t feel a pinch after just one meal.
For example, restaurants with an average price of 200-300, people would celebrate there for family birthdays or holidays.
In restaurants costing around 400-500, young couples would visit for anniversaries.
The price is within an acceptable range and the environment is good.
Aunt Watson was in this situation.
For her birthday or Father’s Day or Mother’s Day, if the children were treating them, they would go to the restaurant to celebrate.
“Those restaurants are part of Majestic,” Lyke Zhekova explained.
Peggy Lewis watched, Lyke Zhekova was much more patient with Aunt Watson than he was with the company’s upper management.
Chapter 1185: Must Believe in Cindy Clarke_1 “Ah, I see.” Aunt Watson felt enlightened, “So, you work at Majestic?”
“Sort of.” Lyke Zhekova thought for a moment, “Strictly speaking, I’m an employee, too.
Even though I own shares in Majestic, the company doesn’t exactly belong to me.
Can I say that I manage it on behalf of others?”
Lyke Zhekova aimed to clarify for Aunt Watson, so he simplified his explanation a bit.
As for the rest, he didn’t feel it necessary for outsiders to know in detail.
“Managing on behalf?
So, you are a…C…CEO?” Aunt Watson surprisingly knew about this title, rather fashionable.
Lyke Zhekova smiled and nodded: “That’s right.”
Aunt Watson: “…”
Aunt Watson was stunned.
...
Before, Mrs.
Lewis had looked down on the match she had suggested, thinking the candidate was not up to par.
Aunt Watson had once angrily retorted that she would like to see whom Peggy Lewis could land.
Who would have thought that she would find someone so wealthy!
She knew all those restaurants.
And each brand had so many branches.
The branches were not only in Belfard but also spread nationwide.
Aunt Watson thought, she didn’t misjudge him last time.
She had suspected then that Lyke Zhekova might be a rich man.
But she just hadn’t expected him to be SO rich!
This wasn’t just regular wealth, this was ultra-rich!
Aunt Watson muttered to herself, my goodness!
Where did Peggy Lewis find this guy, this is so shocking!
At Lyke Zhekova’s level of wealth, Aunt Watson couldn’t even begin to feel jealous or talk behind his back, it was just too vast a gap.
It must have taken a significant combination of fate and fortune to meet someone like Lyke Zhekova.
Even though Aunt Watson quite enjoyed watching television dramas filled with family feuds amongst the rich and powerful, she knew the distinct difference between television and reality.
The insurmountable gulf between social classes was extremely cruel.
For an ordinary person to jump across classes and marry into a wealthy family?
The probabilities were too low.
Not to mention someone like Lyke Zhekova.
She knew the background and conditions of Peggy Lewis’s family.
ɴ0νǤ0.сο
Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis were simply ordinary people, they did not hold Peggy Lewis back, but they couldn’t offer much help either.
Peggy Lewis’s income was decent enough to be considered middle-class, but her career didn’t match.
Aunt Watson simply couldn’t figure out how Peggy Lewis’s social circle could have crossed with Lyke Zhekova’s.
This really was about personal fate, timing, and being destined.
In a situation like this, jealousy was not even an option.
Peggy Lewis, fearing Lyke Zhekova was struggling under the heavy load, quickly said to Aunt Watson: “Aunt Watson, we’ll be heading back first.”
After speaking, she subtly indicated the items in their hands as a hint.
Aunt Watson then said, “Ah, you should get going.”
Peggy Lewis quickly left with Lyke Zhekova.
Back at home, Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis knew Lyke Zhekova was coming today.
Mrs.
Lewis was prepared, as Cindy Clarke had given her a heads up.
However, Mrs.
Lewis did not tell Mr.
Lewis about this.
She was afraid that if Mr.
Lewis knew, he would overthink it and would end up asking Peggy Lewis.
Mr.
Lewis always worried too much and liked to meddle in all affairs.
There were times when Mrs.
Lewis found this rather annoying.
If she didn’t tell him, he would feel like she was keeping secrets from him.
If she told him, he would continually bring it up, asking endless questions.
At this hour, Mr.
Lewis finally got the precise news from Peggy Lewis, and he was quite restless.
“How…
how is it that Peggy Lewis and Lyke Zhekova…” Mr.
Lewis was still muttering.
Mrs.
Lewis of course did not dare tell Mr.
Lewis that she had known all along, she just said, “It’s probably because of Cindy Clarke.
Since Peggy Lewis is so close to Cindy Clarke, she naturally got to meet the Zhekova family, and that’s how they got acquainted.”
“I didn’t expect Peggy Lewis to have such good luck.” Mrs.
Lewis had previously worried about Peggy not dating or marrying.
She hadn’t expected her daughter’s romantic fate to be waiting here.
Mrs.
Lewis was not the kind of high and mighty person.
If her daughter could find such a well-off match, they could enjoy comfort in the future, what could be better?
Since he didn’t mind their social statuses and didn’t think they were incompatible, Mrs.
Lewis had nothing to worry about, she was overjoyed.
Who wouldn’t wish for their daughter to lead a good life, free of worries, with a capable husband?
Mr.
Lewis expressed his concern again: “Do you think our families are not a good match?
Zhekova family is a bit too high profile.”
Mrs.
Lewis sighed, “If the Zhekova family didn’t look down on us, why should we belittle ourselves?
Their acceptance of Cindy Clarke shows us they are not snobbish.”
“And, in my opinion, the Zhekova family is already so strong, adding a feather to their cap is nice, but even without, they wouldn’t lose anything.
You can tell from the attitudes of their seniors, they must be very nice people, respecting their children’s choices, and prioritizing their children’s happiness.
If the children are happy, they agree.
I think this is very good.”
“At the very least, if Peggy Lewis really marries into their family, she won’t be bullied or have to look at people’s expressions.” Mrs.
Lewis said, “Anyway, I think it’s very good.
Plus, with Cindy Clarke kin there, Peggy Lewis will have company, she won’t be alone.
The two were girlfriends, and now they become family.
It’s really nice.”
“They’ve just started dating and you’re already thinking about their wedding?” Mr.
Lewis shook his head, “Don’t get ahead of yourself, breakups happen, too.
I’m just not sure.
Lyke Zhekova is young and promising, many young ladies would willingly throw themselves at him.
What if…”
“There’s no ‘what if’.
If there were conditions for that ‘what if’, Lyke Zhekova wouldn’t be single until now.
Even if you don’t trust Lyke Zhekova, you should trust Cindy Clarke.
If Lyke Zhekova was unreliable, Cindy Clarke would have stopped it long ago.” Mrs.
Lewis said.
Hearing this, Mr.
Lewis felt a bit more at ease than hearing any other reasons.
Right, he may not trust others, but how could he not trust Cindy Clarke?
Cindy Clarke certainly wouldn’t harm Peggy Lewis, right?
“Look how well Cindy Clarke is living now?” Mrs.
Lewis said, “If you really can’t rest assured, you can ask Cindy Clarke.”
“Having been married into the Zhekova family for so long, she must know Lyke Zhekova very well.” Mrs.
Lewis said.
Mr.
Lewis nodded, finally feeling slightly reassured.
At that moment, their doorbell rang, and Mrs.
Lewis quickly reminded Mr.
Lewis: “They’re here, don’t be too critical of him.”
“Don’t worry.” Mr.
Lewis said, couldn’t he be polite?
Mrs.
Lewis then rushed to open the door.
Her state of mind was completely different this time.
Before it was seeing a friend, but this time, it was looking at a son-in-law.
Mrs.
Lewis was beyond excited.
“Come in quickly.” Mrs.
Lewis hurriedly said.
Glancing at the large and small packages in Lyke Zhekova’s hands, Mrs.
Lewis was shocked: “Why did you bring so many things again?”
Chapter 1186: The Starving Camel Is Still Bigger Than The Horse_1 Lyke Zhekova entered, temporarily placed everything on the ground, then said, “The last time I came, I was just Peggy’s friend, so it doesn’t count.
This is really the first time I am visiting as Peggy’s boyfriend, so I should regard it as more significant.”
Mrs.
Lewis felt somewhat overwhelmed as she looked at all the things he brought.
“Are you going to bring so many things each time you visit?
This is not acceptable.” Mrs.
Lewis immediately said.
“When I start coming more often, I’ll bring fewer things each visit.” Lyke Zhekova agreed.
...
It was impossible for him to come empty-handed.
Mrs.
Lewis felt relieved and reluctantly agreed.
“Come in and have a seat.” Mrs.
Lewis arranged for Lyke Zhekova to sit, right opposite Mr.
Lewis.
The atmosphere this time was completely different from the last.
This time, Mr.
Lewis was looking at Lyke Zhekova as his prospective son-in-law, and it felt particularly strange.
They arrived early, purposely choosing a time after Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis had just finished lunch, and before they had started preparing for dinner.
Mr and Mrs Lewis sat together.
Unlike Mrs.
Lewis, Mr.
Lewis felt as though his daughter was being snatched by another man.
He was very reluctant and worried that none other than himself could treat Peggy as well.
Mr.
Lewis believed that no man could treat a woman better than her father.
But he also thought of Joshua Clarke.
Anyway, Joshua Clarke was an exception.
Wasn’t there also an anomaly like Christy Xenos?
There might be some mothers in the world who do not love their children and are even extremely harsh on them.
But those were rare instances.
Perversely, Christy Xenos didn’t not love her children; she just gave all her love to Wendy Clarke.
Mr.
Lewis realized he was getting off-topic.
In any case, he wasn’t Joshua Clarke.
Lyke Zhekova would definitely not treat Peggy as well as he, her father, did.
Mr.
Lewis’s gaze towards Lyke Zhekova involuntarily became more critical.
Mrs.
Lewis, on the other hand, was growing more and more pleased with her prospective son-in-law.
If they didn’t already know that Lyke Zhekova was 37, they wouldn’t have guessed.
For Mr and Mrs Lewis to feel at ease, Lyke Zhekova quickly moved to the point: “Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, I am dating Peggy with the intention to marry her.
You may safely entrust her to me.”
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Even though Mrs.
Lewis was very pleased with Lyke Zhekova, she was a bit confused.
Hadn’t the two just started dating?
Why was it that they were suddenly heading towards marriage?
Was it so soon?
Could it be that Peggy Lewis and Lyke Zhekova were planning to have a whirlwind marriage?
Even though Mrs.
Lewis was very satisfied with Lyke Zhekova and would like Peggy to marry early, she wasn’t thinking about rushing them quite this much.
The two had only just gotten together, shouldn’t they have some time to understand each other?
In Mrs.
Lewis’s estimation, if their relationship developed smoothly and they stayed together, a year or half a year of dating before getting married would be an ideal pace.
Who knew that Lyke Zhekova would be moving so quickly.
Was he launching like a rocket?
Not only Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis were surprised, even Peggy was not mentally prepared for this.
Of course, if the person was Lyke Zhekova, she wouldn’t have any pre-marital fears.
She was ready to get the marriage license at any time!
“I am 37 years old this year and have never been in a relationship.
Peggy is my first love.” Lyke Zhekova continued.
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis were shocked.
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“Before this, I’ve always been upright and have not had any woman.” Lyke Zhekova made it very clear.
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Telling them so frankly, was that really a good idea?
But, he’s already 37, and doesn’t have any experience.
Whether it’s dating experience or that kind of experience, he’s completely inexperienced.
That’s stunning!
“So, Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, you don’t have to worry about any third parties, ex-girlfriends, or such.
Moreover, such women will not appear in the future to upset Peggy.
I haven’t encountered such a situation in the past 37 years, and with Peggy now, it will not happen.” Lyke Zhekova assured.
To Mrs.
Lewis’s surprise, did Lyke Zhekova have some kind of precognitive ability?
How did he perfectly address Mr.
Lewis’s worries?
“In the future, we’ll have to see your actions.” Mr.
Lewis didn’t buy into his words.
Now he is saying nice things, but who knows what will happen in the future?
When he says it, he looks very sincere, but when a temptation comes, will he still be able to resist it?
Lyke Zhekova nodded, “Yes, although it might take actions to prove it, time is also needed for inspection.”
It’s not like they can remain unmarried for life, right?
Everyone gets married by taking a gamble, right?
Betting that the other person will be good to them.
Believing that the other person will be good to them.
“My father is still alive, but because of his old age, his legs and feet aren’t very convenient, so he mostly uses a wheelchair to move around.
There are caregivers and housekeepers taking care of him.
Other than that, he is still very energetic.
My mother has passed away.” Lyke Zhekova gave a brief description of his family.
“As for me, I am currently the CEO of Majestic Corp., which is under Pingla Group.” Lyke Zhekova also mentioned the restaurant managed by Majestic, “The brands that I personally own include…”
Lyke Zhekova then listed the brands he owned.
And the shares he held in Pingla Group.
“Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, you can rest assured that even if I resign my position in the future, Peggy, with me, will not suffer.” Lyke Zhekova said.
Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis naturally believed him.
A starved camel is still bigger than a horse.
Lyke Zhekova, on the other hand, was far from being a starved camel.
“This is a general description of my situation, Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, you can be at ease.” Lyke Zhekova said.
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
They thought to themselves, if they said they weren’t reassured now, would Lyke Zhekova bring identification, property certificates, and such to show them next time?
As they were thinking, Lyke Zhekova’s mobile phone rang.
He apologized to Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, took out his mobile phone, and saw it was a call from the Old Madam.
Lyke said, “This is a call from our family’s Old Madam, which would be Vu Shen’s grandmother.
I’ll take it.”
Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, of course, did not mind.
Lyke Zhekova guessed why the Old Madam was calling.
But he still stood up to take the call by the door, “Auntie, I am currently at Peggy’s parent’s house.”
Since he knew what the Old Madam had called about, Lyke Zhekova just said it directly, without leaving her to ask.
The Old Madam was immediately delighted and asked, “How’s it going?
Is everything going smoothly?”
“We just arrived not long ago.
I’m in the middle of introducing myself to Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis.” Lyke Zhekova explained.
“Yes, yes, yes, it’s important to make everything clear.” The Old Madam said.
Chapter 1187: This is Really Aunt_1 “Have you told her that you’ll hand over all your property to Peggy after getting married?” the Old Madam asked.
It seems like Christopher was the first one to do this.
Then everyone else followed suit, thinking it was a pretty good move.
This way, the wives would never literally throw their husbands out of the house, right?
So, this has now become an unwritten pact of sorts.
It’s not even considered a family tradition per se.
Instead, everyone in their family does it.
...
“I didn’t have time to mention it, you called me just then.” Lyke admitted, sounding a tad weary.
Why was his visit to meet the parents being interrupted by the Old Madam’s lengthy phone call?
Wasn’t this interrupting his performance?
“Oh good, hand them the phone, I have some words to say too.” The Old Madam requested.
Lyke: “…”
He was genuinely worried, would the Old Madam end up creating more problems?
“Aunt, you weren’t as concerned when it came to Cindy’s parents, right?” Lyke asked quietly.
“Look at this, aren’t you touched?” The Old Madam was quite moved by her own actions.
Lyke: “…”
No, there was no such thing.
“Your foolish worry has clouded your thinking.
Given how Cindy’s parents are, Oliver never had to go through the meet-the-parents round.” The Old Madam clarified.
Lyke: “…”
He had indeed forgotten about that for a moment.
Could it be that the Old Madam wanted to experience it through him because she had never had the chance?
“Now, with only you and your father at home, as male family members, there are things that you both aren’t clear about.
So, who else but me to help out?” The Old Madam explained.
Lyke was quite touched on hearing this.
The Old Madam was indeed dependable when it mattered most.
“You can’t expect your dad to negotiate matters with Peggy’s mom, it would be more appropriate for him to talk to Peggy’s dad.
Moreover, he might not think of all the minor details.” The Old Madam added.
“Aunt, I will hand my mobile phone to my mother-in-law right away.” Lyke replied.
Becoming momentarily careless with the volume of his voice, his words were heard crystal clear by Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis, as well as Peggy.
Peggy was fine, Lyke had already spilled the beans on his IG stories.
Although Peggy had mentally ridiculed him, at least he had given her a heads up.
Now though she still couldn’t help but ridicule him on hearing this, at least she could handle it.
Poor Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis had no mental preparation whatsoever.
Mr.
Lewis was still under the impression that his daughter was about to be “snatched” away.
And the next moment, he had become the father-in-law.
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
Mr.
Lewis whispered to Mrs.
Lewis: “Is it too late for me to throw him out now?”
Mrs.
Lewis, looking rather helpless, responded: “I’m afraid it might be too late.”
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
Ah…
He felt like he had unwittingly invited the wolves into the sheep’s pen.
Lyke also realized that he spoke too loud and Mr.
and Mrs.
Lewis must have heard him.
But he wasn’t flustered at all, he calmly returned with his mobile phone and said to Mrs.
Lewis: “Mother-in-law, my Aunt would like to say hello to you.”
Mrs.
Lewis hadn’t expected that she would be directly communicating with the matriarch of the Zhekova Family so soon.
She was so nervous that she didn’t even have the time to rebut Lyke’s address.
Lyke felt that since he had already referred to his father-in-law and mother-in-law in their presence,
There was no need to conceal anything further.
He just needed to firmly express his intention to marry Peggy to them.
Mrs.
Lewis nervously accepted the mobile phone.
Though the two families could now be considered as being in future in-law relations, with Lyke already addressing her as mother-in-law,
The fact remained that she and the Old Madam were from different generations.
The Old Madam was unquestionably a senior relative, the matriarch of the Zhekova Family.
“Old Madam, hello.” Mrs.
Lewis said.
“Oh, my future in-law, hello there.” The Old Madam responded, exuding joy in her tone.
Her voice sounded extraordinarily festive.
Mrs.
Lewis certainly hadn’t expected the Old Madam’s demeanor to be like this.
The Old Madam’s tone and manner of speaking resembled those of cheerful elderly women who dance in the park.
“What do you think of our Lyke?” The Old Madam asked directly.
Mrs.
Lewis was caught off guard by how frank the question was.
Also, even if there was something not likable, she couldn’t just say it to the relative in question, could she?
Yet, up until now, there really wasn’t anything wrong with Lyke.
Mrs.
Lewis laughed and said: “Lyke is wonderful, steady and full of long-term plans–he’s great.”
“Indeed, when I first saw Peggy, I liked her instantly.
I thought to myself, which young man would be worthy of her?” The Old Madam said: “I looked at all the young men in our family, and thought Lyke was quite good.
But I was worried that his age might be a disadvantage.”
“Not at all, Old Madam, you’re being too modest.” Mrs.
Lewis felt a bit under pressure.
“Modesty has nothing to do with it, it’s the truth.
With him being this old and dating a younger girl like Peggy, I’d say he has some nerve.” The Old Madam countered.
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Indeed, such a talkative and straight-forward elderly person she was!
“As long as Peggy doesn’t mind, I’m even more grateful to her.” The Old Madam added.
“This is Peggy’s fate.” Mrs.
Lewis replied, albeit with some difficulty.
Even if she had already learned from Cindy that the Zhekova Family didn’t care about maintaining appearances and were very easy-going,
She never thought they could be this casual.
In today’s society, Lyke’s age was not considered old at all.
Given his outstanding personal attributes, finding a younger partner would be easy.
But in the Old Madam’s view, it seemed as if Lyke was taking advantage and Peggy was being disadvantaged?
Truth be told, this was a really smart move by the Old Madam.
Initially, Mrs.
Lewis was rather anxious, unsure of how to get along with the Zhekova Family.
But now, it was as if the Old Madam had elevated her to an equal standing.
And for the words of the Old Madam, Mrs.
Lewis couldn’t refute them.
If she did, wouldn’t she be belittling her own daughter?
Who would belittle her own daughter?
What if it led to the Zhekova Family looking down on Peggy because of her own undisclosed demeaning remarks?
So, Mrs.
Lewis would never say anything negative about her daughter to others.
Moreover, Peggy indeed was good, in every way.
However, just as she thought about this, it just so happened that the Old Madam relentlessly spoke ill of Lyke.
Unable to agree with the Old Madam’s words, nor capable of belittling Peggy to create balance, Mrs.
Lewis could only give dry laughs.
“Yes, fate indeed!” The Old Madam continued, “Don’t worry, Lyke is a really responsible guy, he won’t ever play around.
He is still single at this age and has never been spotted with young girls.
I once thought he was gay!”
“Love is equal, regardless of gender, I have a liberal mindset.
I’d even agree if he really liked men.
After all, at least he would have a companion when he’s old.
But when I mentioned it, he got annoyed with me!”
Chapter 1188: They Just Started Dating And Now, A Shotgun Wedding_1 Lyke Zhekova was clueless about what the Old Madam had said to Mrs.
Lewis, which was why Mrs.
Lewis was now casting sympathetic glances his way.
Mrs.
Lewis was thinking, this poor guy has been labeled as gay by the elders.
Lyke has stayed single for so many years; it was indeed worrying and could lead to misinterpretations.
“Back then, he insisted to me over and over that he was attracted to women.
...
Seeing how emotional he was, I believed him temporarily.
But after all these years, he’s still alone.
I found it strange; how high are his standards?” the Old Madam remarked.
“But luckily, he met Peggy Lewis now.” The Old Madam continued, “Dear, there’s something I must let you in on.”
The Old Madam’s serious tone made Mrs.
Lewis also turn solemn.
She unconsciously sat up straight.
“Go ahead.” Mrs.
Lewis made a gesture of attentiveness.
The Old Madam said, “Lyke is extraordinarily abstinent.
Just because he’s been single for so long, doesn’t mean he is surrounded by women other than family.
And it’s not just him, the boys who are his close friends also act the same.”
The Old Madam wanted to use her own family as an example, but then she remembered Ethan Zhekova in her family.
One rotten apple spoils the whole barrel.
Seeing the words stuck on the tip of her tongue, the Old Madam stopped herself from saying anything.
“They avoid any romantic involvement unless it leads to marriage.
They promised to keep pure for their future wives and never let their wives look down on them.” said the Old Madam.
Even though Mrs.
Lewis thought that the Old Madam might not know how Lyke behaved in the outside world, she was still pleased to hear her words.
“Oh, by the way, did Lyke get the chance to tell you?” the Old Madam asked.
“What?” Mrs.
Lewis had no idea what she was talking about.
The Old Madam stated, “After Lyke gets married, he will give all his assets to Peggy.
All the properties under his name will have Peggy’s name added.
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All the industries will be transferred to Peggy.”
“With this arrangement, in the event,” even though it’s hypothetical, the Old Madam didn’t want to say the words as it seemed inauspicious.
-“In the event of a divorce, Lyke will be leaving with just the clothes on his back.” The Old Madam gave Mrs.
Lewis a reassurance.
“I understand that parents are worried about their daughters getting bullied and mistreated in marriage.
Rest assured, for the consideration of this, Lyke can’t possibly wrong Peggy, right?
If he angers Peggy, she could kick him out instantly, and make him a pauper.
He would be old and destitute, except for his still-decent looks.
I would like to see how he could still be womanizing then.”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Such a caring aunt indeed.
“Old Madam, I understand what you mean.” Mrs.
Lewis smiled, “Don’t worry, we’re very satisfied with Lyke.
If destiny allows Lyke to become our son-in-law, it would be our blessing, and Peggy’s as well.”
The Old Madam slapped her thigh, “Exactly, that’s the point!
If Peggy gets married to Lyke, it would be Lyke’s good fortune, and ours as well!”
“I’ve thought about it.
Young people don’t want to live with their elders.
Even though they have their own houses, they would still come back to the family mansion to visit us regularly.
Peggy’s relationship with Cindy would only grow closer.”
“After a woman gets married and has her own family, especially after giving birth, her energy is majorly invested in her family and children.
Although I don’t necessarily agree with this, but everyone has their life struggles, who wouldn’t want to live carefreely, right?”
“It’s an inevitable fact.” the Old Madam concluded, “After Peggy gets married and has children, she’ll be occupied with her family and career.
It might be difficult for her to meet up regularly like in the past.”
“But if Peggy marries into the Zhekova Family, it’s different.
She and Cindy would be in the same family, they would have ample time to see each other.
And, although it might be uncomfortable for people when they’re not familiar with their in-laws, that’s social networking.
There could be a variety in a family; some people could be hard to tolerate.
But you’ve to be patient and can’t provoke them.”
“However, it wouldn’t be the same in our family.
Peggy has already met everyone.” As for Ethan Zhekova?
The Old Madam completely forgot about him.
She didn’t even consider him as a part of their family.
“Additionally, there’s Cindy.
Cindy is closer to Peggy than Lyke is.
When you have someone familiar with you, it’s reassuring.”
In this regard, the Old Madam’s thoughts coincided with Mrs.
Lewis’s.
“Indeed, that’s also what I thought.” Mrs.
Lewis agreed.
“Great!” The Old Madam clapped her thigh, “So you agree on Lyke and Peggy’s marriage?”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Wait…
what marriage?
Aren’t they just dating?
Didn’t Lyke come here as a boyfriend?
When did it become a marriage?
“Peggy, give the mobile phone to Lyke.
I will share this great news with him.” The Old Madam said thrilled.
“Old Madam.” Mrs.
Lewis quickly called out.
She felt that if she didn’t say something, the Old Madam might get Lyke and Peggy to tie the knot on Monday.
“They have my agreement on aiming for marriage.” Mrs.
Lewis quickly explained.
If a relationship did not aim for marriage, then it’d be taking advantage of love.
“They just started dating, shouldn’t we take our time to discuss about the marriage?
You see, we have to decide on the date and the banquet, etc.
The two of them need to understand each other first, and then decide when they should get married.
What if we’ve already set up everything and they don’t agree?”
“I agree!” Lyke quickly intervened.
Even though he couldn’t hear what the Old Madam said over the phone.
He heard Mrs.
Lewis’s words clearly.
He had to take a stance now.
Otherwise, when?
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Is marriage something that could be sorted out just because you agreed?
They had only been dating for a few days, and now they were rushing to get married!
“Don’t worry, you’re correct.
They need to get to know each other first to reduce future conflicts.
Peggy can discover Lyke’s bad habits before marriage and correct them,” said the Old Madam.
“By the time they get married, he will be a husband who’s far from annoying.” The Old Madam commented.
What a great plan she had.
Mrs.
Lewis couldn’t fully agree to this though, “Understanding each other will indeed help reduce conflicts after marriage.”
“There won’t be any conflicts!
Rest assured!” the Old Madam said, “Men in our family, like Ethan and Lyke, and my son Harrison.”
Chapter 1189: We are all family, why act like a wolf in sheep’s clothing!
_1 “Men should be completely submissive to their wives and always abide by their words,” said the Old Madam, “What the wife says is always correct.
Rest assured.”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
This Old Madam is such a smooth talker.
She said everything Mrs.
Lewis wanted to say, leaving Mrs.
...
Lewis feeling bitter in her heart.
It’s a forced marriage!
“The two will definitely not argue.” Peggy Lewis is always correct, she listens to everything you say, how can they fight then!
Mrs.
Lewis gave up, and directly asked: “What are your plans?”
Since the Old Madam has already suggested they should date first and not rush into marriage, Mrs. Lewis felt slightly relieved.
But she has an intuition that things are not that simple.
Sure enough, the Old Madam then suggested, “They can get engaged first!
They’ll be fiancés, it’s not like getting married, they can still be in love.”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Look at you throwing words around.
Even after getting married, they can still be in love.
But Mrs.
Lewis felt too timid to vocalize her thoughts.
“Once engaged, we can feel more secure.” the Old Madam said, “Look, with Lyke having a fiancée, Peggy has a fiancé, they can get married anytime they want.
It feels so reassuring!”
Indeed, Mrs.
Lewis also feels tempted by what the Old Madam is saying.
She had always worried about Peggy’s marriage.
Now there finally seems like a good opportunity.
Getting engaged really feels more reassuring.
However, as eager as Mrs.
Lewis seems to be, once Peggy has a potential match, Mrs.
Lewis suddenly doesn’t rush anymore.
She would prefer Peggy to slow down and take the time to get to know him.
It would be better than marrying and then regretting it.
No matter how good the conditions of the other party may be, Peggy needs to have a harmonious life with him and they must be a suitable match for each other.
“Okay.” Mrs.
Lewis agreed.
A formal encounter of both families was arranged for some day soon.
But to Mrs.
Lewis’ surprise, the Old Madam went on, “Since that’s settled, how about we visit you today?”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
“You mean, you, the Old Master, and Lyke’s father?” Mrs.
Lewis asked tentatively.
God, please don’t let it be just as she imagines.
She was not mentally prepared for this.
The pressure would be too high.
“Yeah, isn’t Lyke coming to your house today?
Why don’t we all meet?” the Old Madam happily suggested.
It seemed she couldn’t wait to seal the deal today.
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
How should she refuse?
It’s tough to do so.
But, this is way too abrupt.
It’s not that she doesn’t want them to come over.
However, she needs some time to tidy up, right?
And this sudden plan jumbled everything, they didn’t have enough groceries at home.
She had to rush to the market immediately.
Mrs.
Lewis already started planning inside her head.
Unexpectedly, Old Madam changed her tone, “But suddenly coming over today indeed seems abrupt.
This would also disrupt your plans for today.
That’s quite impolite.”
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
Immediately after, the Old Madam suggested, “How about we meet tomorrow?”
“You see, tomorrow is Sunday, we all have time and the kids also have a break.
This would provide a perfect occasion for us to have lunch together and finalize the engagement.” the Old Madam proposed.
“That sounds fine.” Mrs.
Lewis said reluctantly.
“Then let’s call it a day.” the Old Madam happily declared, “Tomorrow at 11:30 am, let’s meet at the hotel!
Once you’re there, just mention Lyke’s name and they’ll guide you to the right room.”
Old Madam even fixed the time.
If Mrs.
Lewis is asked to believe that this was decided on the spot, she’ll not buy it.
She felt that she had been tricked by the Old Madam.
“Is noon alright?” the Old Madam asked again.
“No problem at all.” What else could Mrs.
Lewis say apart from giving in?
She felt that if she denied now, Old Madam will have more strategies ready.
“Being older, we have a habit of going to bed early.
If we arrange it in the evening, we may not have enough time for a long chat.” the Old Madam explained.
“Noon is the perfect time.
We can chat the whole afternoon.
There’s plenty of time.” Old Madam proposed.
“That sounds fair enough.” Mrs.
Lewis was all numb by now.
She agreed to whatever the Old Madam said.
“Alright, let’s call it a day.” the Old Madam finally ended the conversation.
At this point, Mrs.
Lewis was completely drained of energy: “Alright, I am going to give Lyke back his phone.”
“Oh, okay.”
Mrs.
Lewis returned the mobile to Lyke and was too exhausted to even utter a word.
Having barely put his phone to his ear, Lyke said, “Auntie.”
“Alright, everything is set up now.
We will finalize the engagement at the hotel tomorrow.” Old Madam pronounced, “We won’t be there today.
Handle things carefully at Peggy’s host!”
Lyke: “…”
So, it’s all fixed?
How did the Old Madam manage to do it?
He really wanted to learn her technique.
“Got to hang up now.” Old Madam declared.
Having gotten the granddaughter-in-law, Lyke became insignificant to her.
The Old Madam impatiently ended the call.
Lyke: “…”
When Mrs.
Lewis asked Lyke “Did she hang up so soon?
Didn’t she want to talk more with the Old Madam?”
Mrs.
Lewis was desperate to witness others being manipulated by Old Madam in a conversation just like she was.
If that was the case, Mrs.
Lewis’ mind would be at peace.
“There was nothing else to say, so I hung up.” Lyke responded.
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
So, this means she was the only one being tricked?
“You both spoke for so long just now.
What exactly did the Old Madam say to you?” Curious, Mr.
Lewis inquired.
Mr.
Lewis didn’t want Peggy to be deceived so easily.
He was inherently distrustful of Lyke.
Now Mrs.
Lewis felt even more guilty.
“The Old Madam just now proposed we all meet at a hotel tomorrow…
to discuss…
the engagement of Lyke and Peggy.” Mrs.
Lewis, worried, spoke up.
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
“Engagement…?
Even before they properly transition to a relationship?” Mr.
Lewis was shocked, “How did they already reach the engagement stage?
Haven’t they just started dating?”
Mr.
Lewis then turned to Lyke and Peggy, “Did you guys know about this?”
Especially, when he glared at Lyke, he seemed to be looking at a thief!
A thief who was just about to whisk away his precious daughter!
Peggy was also surprised and turned to look at Lyke, “Engagement?”
Lyke didn’t expect Old Madam to be this fast.
A single call, and she managed to wrap up the engagement.
However, he genuinely didn’t know about it beforehand.
He put on an innocent look, “I don’t know either, what is Old Madam up to?”
No matter how much he feigned innocence, neither Mr.
Lewis nor Mrs.
Lewis believed him.
We are all family, who are you pretending to be, a wolf in sheep’s clothing!
“Hehe.” Mr.
Lewis burst into scornful laughter.
Even Mrs.
Lewis was speechless now.
“I really didn’t know.” Lyke felt so wronged.
Chapter 1190: Women Don’t Stay_1 Lyke Zhekova finally understood the feeling of being unjustly accused.
Ironically, he was the ultimate beneficiary of this misunderstanding.
Even though he was falsely accused, he still benefited in the end.
Lyke Zhekova didn’t know whether to feel happy or miserable about this situation.
He felt so frustrated.
Even if he was pleased with the outcome, it was still tainted with a certain amount of frustration.
Old Madam was truly overbearing!
...
Fortunately, Zhekova’s skin was thick enough.
Lyke Zhekova thought to himself, at this point, no matter how he tried to explain, neither Mr.
Lewis nor Mrs.
Lewis would believe him.
So he might as well not make any further clarifications.
Instead, he would pour more effort into finalizing this matter.
He didn’t want to let the trap that Old Madam had painstakingly arranged fail at the last moment.
“So…
you agree then?” Lyke Zhekova asked.
Mrs.
Lewis: “…”
“Ahem!” Mr.
Lewis coughed forcefully.
“I haven’t fully grasped what’s happening yet.
A telephone call suddenly proposed an engagement?
Ɲονǥօ.сο
I haven’t had time to react yet.”
“We have to think this matter through, no need to rush, heheehee,” Mr.
Lewis intended to procrastinate.
But he was no match for Lyke Zhekova.
Zhekova immediately said, “Right, how about we discuss this together tomorrow at noon?”
Mr.
Lewis: “…”
That’s not the kind of discussion he had in mind!
But Mrs.
Lewis had already been taken in by his plot and had agreed.
So, if he opposed now, it would seem insincere, and he would appear untrustworthy.
Mr.
Lewis is a person of great integrity, he would never engage in such a flippant behavior.
So, Mr.
Lewis had no choice but to agree, albeit reluctantly.
However, because Mr.
Lewis wasn’t particularly enthusiastic, his attitude towards Lyke Zhekova, while not bad, had become increasingly critical.
When Mrs.
Lewis went to prepare dinner in the afternoon, Peggy Lewis offered to help, but Mrs.
Lewis dissuaded her.
“You should keep your father company,” Mrs.
Lewis whispered, “Your father has some objections to Lyke.
If you’re not around, I guess he wouldn’t want to talk to him at all.”
“Why?” Peggy Lewis was confused, “Didn’t he like him quite a lot the last time he visited?”
During Lyke Zhekova’s last visit, Mr.
Lewis was delighted and had a pleasant conversation with him.
“How can the two occasions be the same?” Mrs.
Lewis continued to whisper, pulling Peggy into the kitchen to avoid being overheard by Mr.
Lewis and Lyke Zhekova.
“Last time, he introduced himself as your friend.
Even if we suspected something, you weren’t officially dating.”
Peggy Lewis: “…”
The information in that statement was overwhelming.
“You suspected something last time?” She hadn’t noticed it herself.
“Hah!
Of course with your slow pace,” Mrs.
Lewis scoffed at Peggy, “But don’t get sidetracked, we were talking about your father and Lyke.”
“Oh, okay.” Peggy could only temporarily set aside her confusion.
“Back then, since you weren’t a couple yet, your father didn’t have to worry about his daughter being taken by another man.
But now that you’re officially a couple, he has to be concerned.”
“Your father has a lot of worries.
He’s worried that Lyke comes from a higher class and has better conditions, so he might encounter a lot of temptations.
He’s also concerned that Lyke might bully you.
Of course, not only Lyke, if you were dating any other man, he’d have the same worries.”
“Plus, you’ve just started dating and now he’s already asking for an engagement.
To be honest, I also think it’s a bit rushed.
Shouldn’t we get to know each other a bit more?” Mrs.
Lewis said, “It was my fault for getting caught up in the moment.
Well, now that I’ve agreed, we can’t take it back.”
“The more it is like this, the more frustrated your father is likely to feel,” Mrs.
Lewis said.
“So you’d better play the mediator to avoid any awkward tension between them.”
Hearing this, Peggy Lewis rushed back to the living room without helping out in the kitchen anymore.
Mrs.
Lewis smiled, thinking that girls really forget their own parents once they’re grown up.
Peggy isn’t even married yet.
She and Mr.
Lewis didn’t want to rush Peggy’s engagement, yet Peggy’s heart had already swayed towards Lyke’s side.
She reckoned this engagement was unstoppable.
Once Peggy and Lyke left, she would have a talk with Mr.
Lewis so that he wouldn’t be considered the bad guy and also to prevent any unhappiness from their daughter.
Mrs.
Lewis felt that stopping the engagement was impossible, and probably the wedding ceremony wouldn’t be postponed either.
When the time came to set a wedding date, regardless of how soon it was, they would probably just agree.
As Mrs.
Lewis was pondering, she busied herself chopping the vegetables she had already washed before Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis arrived.
All she had to do now was to chop them up properly.
Over in the living room, after receiving her mother’s hint, Peggy Lewis began to see things more clearly.
After careful observation, she found out it was indeed the case.
Thanks to her presence and Lyke’s thick skin, the atmosphere didn’t get awkward.
During dinner, Mr.
Lewis brought out his home’s finest collection of wine, along with the ones Lyke Zhekova had brought.
But this wasn’t because of Mr.
Lewis’s fondness or hospitality towards Lyke, prompting him to take out all the good stuff.
The real reason was that he wanted to get Lyke drunk!
The wine brought by Lyke was all red wine.
Most of the wine Mr.
Lewis had at home was white wine.
Mixing red and white wine together seemed perfect to Mr.
Lewis.
When Mrs.
Lewis saw all the wine on the table, and the ones that couldn’t fit on the table were temporarily placed on the floor.
“Why did you take out so much?” Mrs.
Lewis asked in a low voice, “Won’t they get drunk?”
“That’s right.
I want to get him drunk,” Mr.
Lewis replied, whispering to Mrs.
Lewis, “How can you judge a man’s character from just a few encounters?
Even if he’s pretending, he would do it very well.”
So, he wanted to evaluate him through his behavior when drunk.
The behavior after getting drunk is the best reflection of one’s character.
The ideal scenario would be for Lyke to just sleep when he gets drunk.
Given the amount of socializing Lyke has to do, if he can honestly just sleep when drunk in the future after they marry, it would save Peggy a lot of trouble.
If he gets talkative when drunk, that would still be acceptable.
If he starts to brag when drunk…
Mr.
Lewis shook his head; that wouldn’t work.
As for behaving crazily when drunk, regardless of the degree of craziness, it would be simply unacceptable.
On this point, Mrs.
Lewis totally agreed with Mr.
Lewis, without anything more to add.
“Just take it easy,” Mrs.
Lewis advised, “You’re not young anymore.
This could hurt your health if you’re not careful in drinking.
It’s like harming the enemy a thousand times and harming yourself eight hundred times.”
“Also, it’s the first time he’s formally visiting us, yet you’re trying to get him drunk and send him home.
It doesn’t look good,” whispered Mrs.
Lewis.
“I know,” Mr.
Lewis said impatiently, “I’m just testing him.”
After saying that, Mr.
Lewis went out with the corkscrew for the red wine.
Mrs.
Lewis sighed.
There wasn’t anything she could do with him when he was stubborn.