Ch. 1301..1310

Chapter 1301: I’m really sick of looking at it_1 Now, everyone in the Pingla Group has received this email.

Gabriel’s assistant also received it.

But he doesn’t dare to come in and verify.

He is afraid that if he comes in, Gabriel might vent his anger on him.

How unjust would that be.

The assistant doesn’t dare to move.

And the rest of the company, out of Gabriel’s sight, began to chat behind his back.

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After all, Gabriel is not around.

And they’re not afraid of someone ratting them out to Gabriel now.

The Gabriel and his son have been driven out of the company.

They have lost all their power, what can they do to them now?

It really is something to celebrate.

The employees are just too happy.

“Why didn’t Adrian issue this command earlier?” They’re talking about Adrian Zhekova.

“Father and son, they were imperious in the company, thinking they were so capable and skilled, I was just about sick of watching them.”

“Since they took over, our annual bonus has been decreasing year by year.

I have classmates working in Pingla and Majestic, and both companies’ year-end bonuses and various benefits are similar.”

Majestic is a subsidiary after all, but it can match Pingla.

This must be said to be the ability of Lyke Zhekova.

Although Majestic’s performance is good, the number of restaurants under it is limited.

It can’t compare with the parent company of the Pingla Group.

But still, it can match it.

Lyke Zhekova can be said to be great.

But Virtuoso can’t.

When Lyke was there, their year-end bonuses and all kinds of benefits were quite a lot.

So they never envied the people in the head office.

But since Gabriel took over, not to mention the annual bonus gradually decreasing.

The company’s various regulations are becoming increasingly strict.

Especially departments like the Marketing Department, which depend on performance, are finding it harder and harder to meet their targets.

It’s getting harder and harder to earn a commission.

They even feel that some rules are just making things difficult for them, possibly just to avoid giving them the bonus.

Nevertheless, in Virtuoso, they are better than the worst but worse than the best.

Although it can’t compare with Pingla and Majestic, it’s still better than some other companies.

Getting into a big company is not so easy now, and everyone has been working in the company for so many years.

Many benefits are calculated based on the number of years of work in the company.

Job hopping and starting over, is not something they are willing to do.

They can only gripe whilst sticking it out at the company.

“Aren’t you afraid that it gets worse?”

“Nah, impossible.

If Adrian kicked out this father and son, it means he has had enough of their incompetence.

He won’t bring in someone even worse.”

“Even if there is some family conflict and contradiction, it doesn’t conflict with the father and son’s incompetency.

By doing so, it does not only harm them but also kicks out the incapable people from the company.

For Adrian, it is killing two birds with one stone.”

“So, whoever comes next, has to be better than them.

After all, this is a business, Adrian also hopes the company prospers.

Seeing the father and son ruin the company, no matter what, they can’t casually appoint some useless crown prince anymore.

Pingla definitely still wants their company, they can’t ruin it.”

People start businesses to make money, not to support idle people.

Besides, if you really want to raise idle people, put them in a nominal position and keep them there.

The fear is that another Gabriel faction comes in who lacks ability but loves to blindly command.

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Wouldn’t that ruin the company?

Everyone was discussing this, and they all thought the analysis made sense.

In Gabriel’s office, Ethan Zhekova saw Gabriel start to shudder.

Ethan couldn’t help but wonder, Gabriel is upset?

What did he see that upset him so much?

Could it be because he was fired and that’s why he’s so upset?

But Ethan also finds this unlikely.

Just now, when Gabriel found out that Ethan was fired, wasn’t he very angry?

But the anger just now compared to now, is simply not on the same level.

Just as Ethan was wondering, Gabriel suddenly stood up.

“Let’s go, we’re going to the family mansion,” said Gabriel heavily, “I’m going to ask the elders, what on earth is Adrian thinking?”

Ethan was surprised, Gabriel actually went to see the elders himself for his sake?

Now, that’s a real father!

Ethan was a little moved, and with a righteous indignation, followed Gabriel.

As soon as Gabriel walked out of the office, he saw Gabriel’s assistant looking anxiously at them.

“CEO…” In principle, Gabriel was no longer the CEO, having been dismissed.

But the assistant didn’t dare to change his address immediately.

Until Gabriel completely leaves, he is very careful.

Gabriel didn’t react at all, didn’t even look at the assistant, and walked away with Ethan.

Chapter 1302_1 Thankfully, today was Saturday, and while there were many colleagues at the company working overtime, it wasn’t as crowded as on a weekdays.

Gabriel and Ethan Zhekova attended the wedding ceremony before heading to the company.

It wasn’t because they were particularly busy at work, but they didn’t want to join the celebrations at the family mansion.

They left before the wedding banquet was thoroughly over, making the excuse that there was a business matter at the company that needed their immediate attention.

But since they used such an excuse, they couldn’t very well go elsewhere.

It would be embarrassing if the elders found out about their deception.

In other words, both men would rather spend time idly at the company than give their genuine blessings to Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke.

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After they left, the Old Master derisively commented, “How urgent could the company’s affairs be that they need to rush there right now?

Normally, I don’t see them so hardworking and passionate about their jobs.

Anyway, they’re not impressing anyone with their middling skills.”

Neither of them were aware of the Old Master’s opinion about them.

And Gabriel was even more clueless, the decision to relieve him of his duties came directly from the Old Master himself.

When they reached their car, Gabriel said, “You drive.

I’m too angry to focus.”

“Okay.” Ethan agreed, climbing into the driver’s seat, he couldn’t help but wonder why Gabriel seemed more furious about Ethan’s termination than Ethan himself.

Perhaps this was an example of fatherly love.

As Ethan drove, he tried to console his father, “Dad, I understand you’re angry about my dismissal.

But make sure you don’t let it affect your health.”

It was at that moment that Gabriel remembered he hadn’t yet told Ethan about his own situation.

Ethan thought his dad was furious because of his own dismissal.

With a grim expression, Gabriel stated, “Adrian Zhekova didn’t just relieve you of your position, he also relieved me of mine.”

“What?” Ethan was beyond shocked, as if he had been struck by lightning.

No wonder Gabriel was so infuriated.

“Has Adrian gone mad?” Ethan raised his voice, “And the Old Master allowed him to do it?”

“After all, Adrian is the Old Master’s own grandson, naturally, he is much closer to him than us.” Gabriel replied sarcastically, “If it came to a confrontation, the Old Master would definitely side with Adrian.”

“So, will it be of any use if we meet with the Old Master now?” Ethan asked anxiously.

Presumably, from Gabriel’s words, the Old Master would indeed side with Adrian.

Adrian daring to act in such manner indicates that he’s got plenty of confidence and backing.

Even if he’s acted boldly without seeking approval first, at the very least, Adrian must be convinced that even if the Old Master found out, he would still side with him.

“It’s not certain that seeking them out will be of any use, but if we don’t, then it’s confirmed to be of no use.” Gabriel declared solemnly, “Furthermore, we must fight back and let them know how angry we are.

We can’t just let ourselves be bullied without saying anything and swallow this insult, can we?”

“Even if we ultimately get nothing out of it, at least, we can try to force Adrian to make some compensation, or take a step back.” After raging intensively now Gabriel had analyzed the situation with a calmer mindset.

“By the way, the announcement mentioned that you were dismissed due to a significant mistake,” Gabriel questioned, “What did you do?”

Ethan hesitated for a moment and then quickly denied, “I didn’t do anything.

You know everything I’ve done at the company.

Have I made any mistakes?”

Gabriel pondered and agreed that it was indeed the case.

“Adrian must have made up an excuse.

If there were any actual mistakes, why wouldn’t he specify what I did wrong?

Instead, he just vaguely claimed that there were serious mistakes.” Ethan said.

Gabriel nodded his head and didn’t question further.

Chapter 1303: There is a Misunderstanding_1 He thought Ethan Zhekova made some valid points.

Moreover, he had no qualms about the decisions Ethan had been making at work recently.

They finally arrived at the family mansion.

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Gabriel Zhekova got out of the car, angrily; he stopped at the entrance of the family mansion and forcefully rang the doorbell.

Very rarely, Butler Howard, without any argument, directly and simply opened the door for them.

If this were in the past, Butler Howard would definitely have put up a fuss.

...

He might have even found an excuse to not let Gabriel in.

Of course, it all depended on whether the Old Masters wished to see him or not.

When the Old Masters didn’t want to see him, Butler Howard would make up an excuse to avoid opening the door for Gabriel.

However, just as it happened today, without uttering a single word, he simply opened the door for him, which was indeed a first.

Even Ethan found it strange.

Once inside, he asked quietly, “Dad, don’t you find this strange?

How come Butler Howard let us in so easily this time?

He didn’t even utter a word.”

Gabriel walked a few more steps before he replied softly, “He’s probably feeling guilty, I suppose.”

“Knowing that Adrian Zhekova has dismissed us both all at once is indeed unacceptable.” Gabriel said softly, “They must also know that upon seeing the announcement, we would come here immediately, so they didn’t try to stop us.”

Ethan agreed.

He also thought things should go smoothly today.

At least the attitude of the Old Masters seemed somewhat gentle, they even seemed a bit guilty.

So, Ethan gained some confidence.

The two dashed straight to the Main Hall where the Old Masters resided.

But to their surprise, when they entered, they paused for a moment.

As Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke were also there.

Even the Third Old Master Zhekova, Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis were present.

Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis were not present before.

However, Lyke also received the Company Announcement.

Fearing that trouble was about to start, he quickly brought Peggy Lewis along.

The young boy was accompanied by Aunt Evans playing in his courtyard.

Otherwise, if things turned ugly in the Main Hall, it would not be a pleasant sight.

Under the furious and humiliated state of Gabriel and Ethan, you never know how harsh their words could be.

The young boy should not be here.

Thankfully, the little boy did not make a fuss or insist, obediently following Aunt Evans, seemingly understanding the situation.

Gabriel’s heart sank along with his face.

The scene before his eyes was different from what he had envisioned.

All these people were present, as if they were fully prepared, specifically waiting for him.

Looking at their expressions, none of them seemed guilty.

They were all so calm, as if they were prepared in advance.

Seems like they were all aware of Pingla’s consecutive announcements?

Even the Old Masters knew about it.

Was it possible that they were even in support of Adrian Zhekova?

That’s why, they knew he and Ethan would come.

So, they were all waiting here in advance.

It felt oddly like a setup.

Gabriel was nearly choked by his own fury.

Then, he heard the Old Master say, “Why did you arrive at this hour?

Weren’t you supposed to be working overtime?”

This comment really infuriated Gabriel.

The Old Master was just rubbing salt in the wound.

How could they not know why they came?

If they didn’t know, could they be so prepared?

It looked like they were the real family, and only he and Ethan were the outcasts.

“All of you are gathered here quite neatly.” Gabriel mocked.

Lyke even said, unperturbed, “Adrian and Cindy have an appreciation dinner this afternoon, we may not be going but all of us must stay in the old house to celebrate.”

Gabriel: “…..”

That’s not what he was talking about!

“So, why are you here?” the Old Master asked, “Do you also want to celebrate with us?”

That comment from the Old Master was indeed a heartbreaker.

What was there to celebrate, given the present state of Gabriel and Ethan?

This was clearly intended to make Gabriel uncomfortable.

Gabriel felt as if there was a lump in his throat.

For a moment, he didn’t know how to start questioning.

Ethan was even more tongue-tied.

In front of the Old Masters, he had always been quite timid.

Gabriel took several deep breaths to calm himself down before he said, “Uncle, did you know that Adrian Zhekova has just released an announcement dismissing Ethan and I from our duties?”

“There seems to be a misunderstanding.” The Old Master said.

Ethan felt a surge of relief in his heart.

So, it was Adrian Zhekova who acted on his own.

Gabriel also breathed a sigh of relief.

However, to their surprise, they heard the Old Master say, “It is true that Adrian made Ethan’s dismissal announcement.

But your dismissal, Gabriel, I’m the one who ordered it.”

Gabriel entirely ignored any problems regarding formality.

If it were before, he would have definitely pounced on such small details.

Why was Old Master addressing Ethan with his full name, making him sound like a stranger?

Chapter 1304: You Must Take Responsibility for What You Say_1 Calling him Adrian Zhekova seems very affectionate.

This feeling of familiarity and distance is too apparent.

But now, Gabriel Zhekova could not bother about these.

He looked at the Old Master in astonishment, “Why?

Why would you even dismiss me from my post?”

Ethan Zhekova bit his lip: “…”

After hearing Gabriel’s words.

Wasn’t this meeting supposed to be about seeking justice?

Or is it just seeking justice for Gabriel alone, not Ethan?

...

The Old Master laid out all the annual reports on profit and loss of Virtuoso that Sheldon Rowland had sent him over the years onto the table.

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“This is the performance of Virtuoso during Lyke’s tenure, as well as the individual performance and total profit of each restaurant under Virtuoso.

More than 30% of them have negative growth.”

“But in the five years since Lyke took over, all losses have been turned into profits, and the performance of Virtuoso and the customer ratings have been constantly refreshed.”

“This is the data from the last year of Lyke’s tenure at Virtuoso,” the Old Master said, “Since you took over, the first year decreased by 5%, the second year decreased by 10%. By now, it has decreased by 30%, already nearing the numbers before Lyke took over.”

“The profits of the two brands, Furnace Alley and Puritan Resto, have declined nearly 50%.

More than half of the restaurants under these two brands have not reached the profit standard, and the restaurants’ occupancy rate is getting lower and lower.”

“Though Virtuoso is still generating a positive growth in annual total income, in reality, many restaurants have already started to suffer losses.

The overall growth is merely fabricated to appease the outsiders, to make ourselves look good.”

That sort of trick, the Old Master wouldn’t be unaware of.

But he had never done it, nor had Lyke Zhekova nor Adrian Zhekova.

They disdained such actions because they didn’t need to resort to them.

Under their guidance, the company’s performance was genuinely commendable, there was no need to camouflage anything.

“Just because you’re a part of the Zhekova family, do we need to keep such a large company for you to wreck havoc?” the Old Master said coldly, “The employees of the company, the employees of its restaurants, are our responsibilities.

I cannot, for the sake of your pride and to support you, lose them all.”

“Even the deepest of root will not withstand such ruin!” the Old Master spoke up angrily, “You used to say I didn’t give you opportunities, so I handed Virtuoso over to you, giving you the chance to prove yourself.

And what did you prove?

All of this pathetic mess.

Knowing you are incapable, why would I gamble with our family’s fortune and so many people’s livelihoods?”

“We’re not just making money for ourselves, we’re bearing the livelihoods of so many people.

We have to be responsible!

It’s not something you can squander carelessly!” echoed the Old Master’s deep voice.

“I had given you opportunities, but you failed to prove yourself, so I cannot let the company continue to decline like this while in your hands.

As a member of the Zhekova family, I don’t expect much from you.

The Zhekova family can still thrive even with you not doing anything, but certainly not while you’re wrecking havoc in our company.”

“Being idle is no problem, but it’s critical to know your limits.

You shouldn’t overestimate your abilities or cause trouble when you’re incapable!” The Old Master was quite straightforward.

So straightforward that it sounds harsh.

At least to Gabriel, it was extremely harsh.

The Old Master didn’t even sugarcoat his reproach.

Especially with Ethan right by his side.

Humiliating him and declaring his incompetence in front of Ethan.

What dignity does he have left!

“These reports are all recorded accurately.

They are also documented in the company, it’s not something we fabricated to frame you.” said the Old Master, “If you think I’m wrong, you can take them and check it yourself, to see how well you’ve performed over the years!”

“If you can’t hold the fort, why should I use you?

There are plenty of people capable of holding their ground, the only reason I chose you was because you are a Zhekova.

Do you really think you have the ability?

The outcome is that you can’t even hold your ground.

Then why should I leave behind a crowd of talented people who could manage Virtuoso well and insist on using you?”

“Our entire family isn’t here to serve your ego!” the Old Master’s voice resounded forcefully.

When the Old Master finished speaking, he turned the topic to Adrian Zhekova.

“Indeed, I did issue Ethan’s dismissal order,” Adrian said, “That’s because I can’t tolerate someone who is constantly out to harm my wife and child, even if he is a family member.

Oh, no, if he really is a family member, how could he harm his own family?”

Gabriel looked disbelief at Ethan.

What’s happening!

“What ‘harming your wife and child’!?” Ethan shouted, “Adrian, you should take responsibility for your words!”

Chapter 1305: Not Because of Guilt_1 But now, Adrian Zhekova’s agitated reaction could be interpreted as the excitement after being falsely accused.

But it could also be interpreted as the intense reaction after feeling guilty.

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Ethan Zhekova looked into Adrian’s eyes and reminded him, “Have you forgotten what my ability is?”

Ethan Zhekova: “…”

He was currently emotionally charged and struggled to control himself, let alone being directly stared at by Adrian’s penetrating gaze.

Adrian saw through Ethan in an instant.

Instinctly, Ethan Zhekova quickly avoided Adrian Zhekova’s gaze.

Adrian smirked coldly, “If you’re not guilty, why would you avoid my eyes and not dare to face me?”

Ethan Zhekova suddenly halted his movements, instantly filled with regret.

...

Just now, he reacted subconsciously because he was so panicked.

Now that Adrian had pointed it out, Ethan also realized that he had acted incorrectly.

“I just didn’t want you to see through me.

Who would want to be completely transparent and without any privacy in front of someone?” Ethan said, “You’re trying to divert the focus and change the subject.”

“I avoided your gaze not because I felt guilty, but because I didn’t want you to pry into my privacy!” Ethan defended himself. “Besides, even if you claim that you can read my thoughts, how can you prove it?

You could say anything to defame me,” Ethan argued, “No one else knows whether what you said is true or false.”

“You’re wrong,” Adrian said indifferently, “I didn’t plan to use this ability to solve the matter.”

Ethan was surprised.

Since Adrian said so, how did he intend to resolve the matter?

Soon after, Adrian played a sound recording.

When Ethan heard the woman’s voice, he found it somewhat familiar.

The voice only uttered one sentence initially, too fast, and besides, a voice passing through a machine always contains some differences from the original.

That’s why Ethan didn’t recognize it immediately.

But when he heard the third sentence, Ethan knew the voice.

It was Wendy Clarke!

Upon discovering it was Wendy Clarke, Ethan felt a sinking feeling.

A sense of foreboding rose in his heart.

As he listened, he felt something was wrong.

Additionally, he vaguely felt the words Wendy said in the recording were familiar, as if he had heard them somewhere before.

It wasn’t until his voice appeared in the recording.

Ethan finally recalled where he had heard them before.

It was clearly the conversation he had initially planned with Wendy Clarke to stop Cindy Clarke on the road.

“Surprisingly, Wendy recorded it!”

Ethan never expected that he would make such a simple mistake, allowing Wendy to record their conversation.

It was indeed his oversight.

Because he had always looked down on Wendy, deep in his heart he never respected her, and thus did not even take basic precautions against her.

Yet unexpectedly, he was caught by the person he least regarded.

Ethan was also astonished in his heart.

If Wendy had such compelling evidence, why didn’t she use it to threaten them when he was completely absolving himself and leaving Wendy to deal with it?

Of course, Wendy couldn’t use it.

If she dared to use it to threaten him at that time,

This piece of evidence wouldn’t have been sent out, and Wendy would have been dealt with first.

So, Wendy didn’t dare to mention it.

Ethan realized that Wendy was biding her time.

She saved the evidence and waited for the right moment to strike him.

However, Ethan didn’t expect that Wendy would hand this over to Adrian Zhekova.

Now Ethan couldn’t comprehend it.

Since Wendy clearly resented Cindy, why would she help her?

After all, Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke are one and the same.

Helping Adrian Zhekova is equivalent to helping Cindy Clarke.

The road blockade against Cindy Clarke was orchestrated by Wendy Clarke.

Why is she helping Adrian Zhekova now?

Could it be that she felt that if she gave the evidence to Adrian, he would protect her?

Ethan didn’t realize at all that Adrian actually forced it from Wendy.

Ethan didn’t have time to think about all this now.

Just the dialogue in the recording could condemn him already.

He couldn’t even pay attention to what was said later in the recording.

He felt as if his world was over.

His head buzzed, and he couldn’t hear a single word from the recording.

Edward Dewer now better understood that he was implicated by his son.

In the past, no matter how much infighting occurred in the family, Old Master never mentioned about his dismissal.

The biggest taboo in the family is to harm the family members.

You can feel resentful, compete for power, and position based on abilities.

If you possess those capabilities, you can rightfully compete.

If you lost, it only means that you lack the skills.

You can compete with each other in work.

But there’s one thing you can’t do: hurt each other.

If you harbor malicious intentions against your family, it’s an unforgivable sin.

And Ethan Zhekova made precisely such a mistake.

Chapter 1306: Turn Back and Apologize to Morgan Zhekova on My Behalf_1 Not only Adrian Zhekova, even the elders could not tolerate Ethan Zhekova’s actions.

And this time, Ethan Zhekova’s guilt was established beyond doubt, caught red-handed.

If they were going to punish Ethan Zhekova, then, by all means, punish him too.

His desire for power in the Zhekova Family was never a secret.

There’s no guarantee that what Ethan Zhekova did wasn’t driven by him behind the scenes.

Gabriel Zhekova quickly realized all of this.

At the same time, he felt a sense of injustice as well.

...

His ambition to overtake wasn’t new, far from it.

For decades, he competed openly and never resorted to such underhanded means.

If the elders doubted him, it would truly hurt him.

If he wanted to use such underhanded means, he would have done it long ago, and wouldn’t have waited until now.

Because of Ethan Zhekova, even his character is now being questioned.

However, Gabriel Zhekova knew it wasn’t just because of that.

He admits that he has not performed well at Virtuoso.

The Old Master is probably fed up and took this opportunity to kick him out.

But without Ethan Zhekova’s transgressions, the Old Master wouldn’t have found a good excuse, or even thought about it.

So, at the root of it, he was dragged down by Ethan Zhekova.

Gabriel Zhekova’s expression suddenly darkened, he turned and suddenly swung a slap across Ethan Zhekova’s face.

Ethan Zhekova’s head was still buzzing, caught off guard by Adrian Zhekova’s sudden evidence, he had no idea what to do.

Suddenly, he was slapped by Gabriel Zhekova.

He took a few stumbling steps backwards and almost fell.

But Gabriel Zhekova’s slap woke him up too.

Ethan Zhekova was startled, looking at Gabriel Zhekova in surprise.

Gabriel Zhekova yelled angrily, “I asked you to compete, but I never told you to harm our family!”

Cindy Clarke had already witnessed a quarrel once before, so she was fine.

But Gabriel Zhekova’s physical attack on Ethan Zhekova did take Cindy by surprise.

And Peggy Lewis, seeing this scene for the first time, was much more shocked than Cindy.

She gasped, her eyes widened as she took in the scene before her.

It felt…

as if she was watching a drama unfold.

Cindy didn’t know whether Gabriel Zhekova was pretending, trying to pronounce himself innocent.

Clearing himself, signaling that he had nothing to do with what Ethan Zhekova had done.

or, if Gabriel Zhekova really had such a bottom line.

If he truly had such principles, Cindy might have to change her opinion about Gabriel Zhekova.

Although Gabriel Zhekova may be power-hungry and incapable, and lacks self-awareness, he is at least not a wicked man.

Cindy couldn’t help but reflect that, despite Gabriel Zhekova’s numerous grievances against her and even contempt for her,

he has never done anything to substantially harm her and did not interfere in her marriage with Adrian Zhekova.

Although interference wouldn’t have mattered.

There is a difference between trying futilely and not trying at all.

Gabriel Zhekova made his stance clear, but that was that.

When Christy Xenos and two others came to Belfard, an excellent opportunity to manipulate her, Gabriel Zhekova did not even try to contact them.

It seemed that Gabriel Zhekova really put all his competition out in the open.

Considering this, Cindy leaned more towards the latter.

Gabriel Zhekova truly had no knowledge of this matter, and he did have his limits.

And Ethan Zhekova, had inherited none of those good traits.

“I…”, Ethan Zhekova stammered, but could not come up with a counter-argument.

“I asked you before if you had done anything wrong, and you kept saying no,” Gabriel Zhekova said in disappointment, “You even lied to me!

I don’t know how much more you have deceived me.”

Now, Gabriel Zhekova had begun to understand the Old Master’s feelings.

He understood the Old Master’s helplessness regarding him.

He had no capability, yet always strived for more.

As for Ethan Zhekova, Gabriel felt that Ethan was incompetent yet always up to no good.

Gabriel Zhekova took a deep breath, turned to the elders, and said, “Uncle, Aunt, Adrian.

Whether you believe me or not, I had no idea about what Ethan Zhekova did and have never directed him, nor have I even hinted at it.”

“For decades, I’ve always competed openly and have never stooped to such underhanded means.

I don’t know who Ethan Zhekova has been following, but how did he end up like this!”

“I’ve always had a line I would never cross.” Gabriel Zhekova said, tapping his chest.

“I accept the punishment for Ethan Zhekova’s wrongdoing this time.

I won’t fight for anything for myself anymore.

If I get dismissed, so be it.”

“If you do something wrong, there must be a price to pay,” Gabriel Zhekova said.

Now, Cindy had truly revised her opinion of Gabriel Zhekova.

He was not the same as Ethan Zhekova.

Gabriel Zhekova then turned to Cindy and said, “I always disagreed with you, and never accepted you.

But one thing is certain, I would never do anything to harm you, as bullying women and children is not what a man should do.”

“And…

when you get the chance, apologize to Morgan Zhekova on my behalf,” Gabriel Zhekova added, “I startled both of you, I’m sorry.”

Chapter 1307: You Can’t Compare with _1 Cindy Clarke used to think that the Zhekova Family, with its fantastic family atmosphere and strict upbringing, was really something.

How could there be an anomaly like Gabriel Zhekova.

It felt as if a good bamboo was sprouting a bad shoot.

Yet now, Cindy Clarke knows, aside from Ethan Zhekova, there isn’t a single bad shoot in the Zhekova Family.

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Even Gabriel Zhekova, he’s impressive now.

When he does something wrong, he accepts it without a second word.

...

“Please don’t say it like that,” Cindy Clarke said, “Independent of other factors, whoever should take responsibility for this matter, should.”

With a serious face, Gabriel Zhekova sighed, saying, “It’s my fault for not educating my son properly, I should take responsibility.”

After saying that, Gabriel Zhekova didn’t say more.

He turned and left.

Even if he’d stayed there, it’s unclear what he could’ve said.

Staying would not have changed anything.

But when he left, he didn’t even look at Ethan Zhekova, nor did he ask Ethan to go with him.

He seemed as if he didn’t want to deal with Ethan at all.

“Dad!” Ethan called out, about to follow.

Right now, only Gabriel Zhekova could protect him.

If he was left here alone, these people wouldn’t let him off!

However, Gabriel Zhekova seemed to not hear him, he kept moving forward without turning back.

It was just that Gabriel Zhekova was not walking too fast, it was at a normal pace.

Ethan could still catch up if he wanted to.

But when Ethan reached the door, two guards from the family mansion appeared, blocking the door tightly.

It appeared they didn’t intend to let Ethan leave.

Ethan turned to look at Adrian Zhekova: “What are you going to do?”

He put on a pitiful expression and asked his grandparents: “Grandfather, Grandmother, are you really going to let him treat me this way?”

“We still have to deal with the matter of you trying to harm Cindy and Morgan,” the Old Master said gravely.

Ethan actually had the audacity to complain to them?

The old master could hardly believe that someone with the Zhekova Family’s genes could produce such a creature.

Even Gabriel Zhekova was leagues beyond Ethan.

“Still not settled?” Ethan was surprised, wasn’t his suspension a punishment?

Does suspension not count as a penalty?

“Your dismissal from your position isn’t solely due to this matter.

It’s because you have not made significant contributions to the company.

You’ve been holding onto a position without providing the company the capability and returns expected of it.”

“Those of high position should be capable,” the Old Master said in a cold voice.

“Since you are not capable, then a capable person will take your place.”

“Is Samson Zhekova capable?

He’s just a chef, yet you let him become a headmaster, and also a vice-chairman?” Ethan argued disbelievingly.

Mentioning Samson Zhekova, Jayden Zhekova and his wife were rather unhappy.

Why was Ethan pulling Samson Zhekova into this!

By the sound of it, was he belittling Samson Zhekova?

Jayden Zhekova became very unhappy.

With Ethan’s caliber, he looked down on Samson Zhekova?

He was stupid, but Samson Zhekova wasn’t!

Jayden Zhekova immediately snapped: “Our Samson is doing very well.

He is very capable, so don’t you try pulling any tricks!”

Aria Evans chimed in: “Indeed, Samson managed the Pingla Academy and came up with a series of new measures that made the academy increasingly better and more well-known.

Don’t assume that if it were you, you could do it.

You couldn’t.”

The series of new measures and regulations Samson announced under Pingla Academy were nothing short of extraordinary.

Even Lyke Zhekova and Adrian Zhekova agreed that even though Samson’s methods were unconventional, the effects were surprisingly good.

Samson had also achieved a lot for the Hearth Nation as a part of the International Chefs Association.

If it wasn’t for Samson’s relentless efforts, the status of Pingla Academy would not be as highly regarded as it is today.

And yet Ethan looked down on Samson?

He thought Samson was worse than him?

Jayden Zhekova hoped Ethan would wake up.

Ethan’s jaw tightened in anger.

He had never considered himself inferior to Samson.

He even thought that Samson was the weakest in the family.

It was only because Adrian Zhekova felt it wouldn’t look good for Samson to be idle, so he positioned him at the non-essential Pingla Academy.

Jayden and his wife were, in reality, much more self-aware than he was.

Just because he was being targeted today, didn’t mean he was worse than Samson.

“Third Uncle, I understand you want to defend your son, and that’s okay.” Ethan still had that ‘I understand, but I don’t care about your words’ attitude.

This really made Jayden gasp in anger.

Although Jayden liked to play and didn’t enjoy work, it doesn’t mean his son wasn’t capable or unachievable!

For the first time, Jayden felt he had let Samson down.

Because he gave people the impression that he liked to play and did not like to work, which led to Samson being looked down upon.

There was a certain impression that Samson was illiterate due to being his son.

For the first time, Jayden regretted why he chose this path.

“You truly can’t compare.” Adrian Zhekova spoke up.

Jayden looked gratefully at Adrian, his eyes filled with appreciation.

Chapter 1308: Are You Also Qualified To Look Down On Him?_1 “Who knows, Ethan Zhekova, he even gave a scoff, expressing disbelief.

“Aren’t you just trying to undermine me?

Using the low-ranking Samson Zhekova to belittle me, making me seem completely worthless.”

“I’m telling you, no use!” Ethan Zhekova was extraordinarily confident.

This confidence of his, though, had made Jayden Zhekova sick to his stomach.

Jayden sprang to his feet.

Everyone looked over at him.

Jayden covered his mouth and said, “I need to vomit for a bit.”

Why would he vomit?

...

It’s all because Ethan Zhekova made him feel sick.

Even Ethan Zhekova, at this point, understood the implications of Jayden’s words, his face going dark.

Aria Evans couldn’t help but laugh, pulling Jayden back to sit down.

It’s not the time to be messing around.

“If you don’t believe what your third uncle says, and you don’t believe what Adrian says, will you believe what I say?” the Old Master asked.

Ethan Zhekova’s gaze was uncertain.

Clearly, he wanted to say he didn’t believe it either.

But Adrian was his own grandson, and Samson was even closer to him.

It was obvious that the Old Master would favor them.

But Ethan dared not say it.

The Old Master sneered, Ethan Zhekova didn’t have many tricks up his sleeve.

“You think under Pingla Academy is not important, hence Adrian put Samson in under Pingla Academy to do an idle job?” the Old Master sneered.

“In fact, the job that appears to be a bit less important, is yours.” the Old Master said coldly.

“Under Pingla Academy, is the basis of our entire Pingla Group.” the Old Master said, “It cultivates a large number of the top chefs in the country.

When they graduate, some choose to start their own businesses, while others choose to join the various restaurants under Pingla Corp.”

“Why is our restaurant’s reputation so good?

Quality service alone won’t do it.

No matter how good the service is, if the food doesn’t taste good, it’s all a waste.

It’s all because of the chefs supplied by under Pingla Academy.”

“You might say, the chefs are good, it’s the credit of the teachers.”

Ethan Zhekova’s face was full of disbelief, he was really being talked about by the Old Master.

“But have you ever thought, without the corresponding reputation and status of under Pingla Academy, where would we attract so many excellent and high-potential students to join Pingla?

Even before they joined under Pingla Academy, they were already the top-notch.

Many schools were begging them to join.

Moreover, with the family background of the students of under Pingla Academy, they could go to the other three major schools.

Why do they have to choose Pingla?”

“Isn’t it because Pingla’s reputation is loud, strong, and its international status is also high enough, not inferior to the other three, making them not have to go far and wide for better?

This is a cycle, forming a positive cycle, so that under Pingla Academy can operate like it is now.

Good students, graduates with a loud reputation, and more and more freshmen are willing to come in.”

“And all these are based on the foundation Samson has laid in under Pingla Academy.

Being a headmaster there is not enough.

He has to keep pushing under Pingla Academy continuously upwards.

He also has to continue to match wits with representatives from other countries in the International Chefs Association.”

“You say Samson is useless?

What he does, you can’t do.” the Old Master said.

Because Ethan Zhekova simply didn’t have the brains for it.

He couldn’t even understand the importance of under Pingla Academy, how could he be expected to do anything well?

It’s because under Pingla Academy is too important, that they gave the school to Samson.

Maybe many people, like Ethan Zhekova, think that the school is not as important as the other companies in the group.

But this proves the seriousness of Samson all the more.

He could really put up with it, without boasting about it.

Just doing well the job they gave him, pushing under Pingla Academy higher and higher.

Even the media didn’t make much of Samson.

They just felt he was a son of the Zhekova Family, the headmaster of Pingla, a genius chef.

They had no idea what an important role he was playing in the Zhekova Family.

Jayden Zhekova and Aria Evans had sour noses and a full, swelling feeling in their hearts.

It doesn’t matter what others think.

The head of the family, and Adrian Zhekova, the next family head, they both understand the importance of Samson, they can see his talent, and affirm his abilities.

This is enough!

ƝονǤօ.ᴄօ

Whatever outsiders say.

Don’t argue with fools!

The Old Master said coldly to Ethan Zhekova, “You don’t even understand this, and yet you think Samson is not as good as you?”

“Samson is no less than Adrian or Jayden!” the Old Master said, “It’s precisely because he understands that he knows the importance of under Pingla Academy, that he does so well, making us feel at ease, without needing to worry.”

“You, you dare to look down on him?” the Old Master said coldly.

Ethan Zhekova: “…”

“Just for this, I think you were demoted too late, letting you stay in a position completely unfit for you for so long.”

Chapter 1309: These Are Two Separate Matters_1 Jayden Zhekova and Aria Evans breathed a sigh of relief.

They both felt a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Samson Zhekova’s capability was recognized by the family members.

Only the foolish couldn’t see it, but the smart ones surely could.

This was enough.

The head of the Zhekova Family, as well as the future leaders, acknowledged and approved of Samson Zhekova’s abilities.

Even when Adrian Zhekova takes the helm of the family, Samson would still be valued within the Zhekova Family.

...

They had no need to worry about Samson, even if both of them were gone someday.

Ɲονցο.сο

As the Zhekova Family lineage continues, they are once part of the main branch, but eventually, they will become side branches.

They will gradually become less and less important.

Samson Zhekova would be fine in his generation, but in future generations, one will have to rely on their own capabilities to maintain influence in the Zhekova Family.

The Zhekova Family was so grand that they couldn’t possibly look after every Zhekova.

Currently, many members of the Zhekova Family’s side branches were scattered across various places, operating relatively less important companies or restaurants for the Zhekova Family.

They were working in chain restaurants and local offices in different places.

Though they had work to do, they were still not part of the core Zhekova Family.

Of course, if their abilities didn’t suffice, they wouldn’t even be able to work at a remote restaurant or branch office.

The Zhekova family could even dismiss Ethan Zhekova, let alone anyone else.

Nevertheless, Jayden Zhekova and his wife now felt at ease.

The Old Master made Ethan Zhekova speechless.

So after all that’s been said, he’s still inferior to Samson Zhekova?

“Not to mention anything else, you’ve already punished me.” They had relieved him of his duties, “Why are you still not letting me go?

I’ve already been punished!”

“Your dismissal is not a punishment for your assault on Cindy Clarke and Morgan Zhekova.

It was because of your incompetence.

Don’t assume that this is punishment for your assault on Cindy and Morgan.”

The Old Master made it very clear in case Ethan was too dim to understand.

Of course, the Old Master did it on purpose.

Even if Ethan was a fool, he would surely understand this.

However, the Old Master also had doubts whether Ethan was indeed that foolish.

Throughout the day, Ethan’s actions were constantly altering the Old Master’s impression of him.

He even began to suspect if there was something wrong with the Zhekova Family’s genes.

There had never been anyone as foolish as Ethan Zhekova, not even Gabriel Zhekova.

“What?” Ethan Zhekova couldn’t believe that this was not his punishment.

“What was the ‘serious misconduct’ mentioned in the announcement?” Ethan Zhekova asked.

Adrian Zhekova initially planned to consider this as a punishment.

But, the Old Master obviously had a new thought now.

Unfortunately, he hadn’t had a chance to explain to him yet.

But Adrian Zhekova is not Ethan Zhekova.

With just a word from the Old Master, he understood his intentions.

He then explained: “The severe misconduct refers to the losses you have caused to the Company over the years, as well as the numerous projects you have lost.”

Adrian pulled out a file from a stack of documents on the table.

He seemed to know that this was what he wanted without even looking at it.

Adrian directly handed the file to Ethan Zhekova: “This file records the projects you have handled over the years, along with their success rate.”

“43 percent,” Adrian scoffed, “With Pingla’s foundations, to be frank, over 80 percent of these projects were keen on partnering with Pingla.”

“Despite this, you still managed to lose so many projects.” Adrian could guess how Ethan messed them up.

It was because he thought Pingla had the upper hand, so he made extreme demands and took a high-handed attitude.

They wanted to cooperate with Pingla, not to become subservient.

And he had investigated, Ethan’s demands were excessively stringent.

The benefits and allure of collaborating with Pingla weren’t enough to make them accept these harsh conditions.

“Having such a success rate is also quite an achievement.” Adrian said coldly.

“Just for the losses you caused to Pingla, isn’t that a serious misconduct?” Adrian spoke coldly, “It’s only because you are a member of the Zhekova family that we gave you so many opportunities.”

“If it were someone else, they would have been sacked long ago.

Would they have waited till now?” Adrian said, “I’ve already given you plenty of chances, we’ve now reached my limit.”

Ethan Zhekova stared at the file without saying a word.

He didn’t expect that Adrian had been secretly investigating him this entire time.

He had his affairs scrutinized clearly.

Ethan then pondered that if this wasn’t the punishment for him attacking Cindy and Morgan.

Then what was his actual punishment?

Adrian was also not sure about what the Old Master exactly had in mind.

So he looked towards the Old Master.

Chapter 1310: Spare Me This Time_1 The Old Master took a glance at Ethan Zhekova.

It was merely a casual glance, but it gave Ethan Zhekova a very bad premonition.

Immediately after, the Old Master said, “All the privileges you enjoy as a direct descendant of the Zhekova family, from today on, are all abolished.”

Ethan Zhekova was completely stunned.

This…

was almost equivalent to disowning him from the Zhekova family!

Even if he still held a place in the family tree, it would be meaningless.

Apart from a superficial title, he would have nothing tangible left.

...

“I will cut off all your connections and manpower,” the Old Master said coldly.

“You can take this time to focus and study.

There will still be opportunities for you to come back in the future.”

But to have everything easily at his disposal, simply because he is a Zhekova, like before-

This would be impossible.

“In a family, the most taboo thing is to harm each other,” the Old Master said.

“Therefore, I think it’s fair for Cindy Clarke and her family, for they hurt Cindy so much.

In fact, Cindy is still too kind.”

“As for you, you have intended to harm your own family and even did things to hurt them.

Just because you didn’t succeed, doesn’t mean you haven’t done it.”

“Our Zhekova family, does not acknowledge those who hurt their own family!” declared the Old Master.

“I know this decision will make you hate me,” the Old Master acknowledged, “It is my command.

If you want to hate, just hate.”

“But this won’t affect you much.

Even though I’ve cut off your resources, you still have your father’s.

You can still live like a rich Young Master.” The Old Master smirked.

Ethan Zhekova should be content to be a wealthy Young Master.

To be disowned from the family, it requires a collective discussion and a family meeting among the elders.

But to cut off Ethan Zhekova’s resources, the Old Master’s word was enough.

“I’ve said all I had to say, you can go now.” The Old Master ruthlessly dismissed Ethan Zhekova.

“Grandfather!” Ethan Zhekova wanted to plead.

If all his connections were cut off, he was truly finished.

For many years, the resources he had been using were actually all from the Zhekova family.

Without these, he was nothing.

He may have come across as very arrogant when facing Wendy Clarke, acting as if he had the world at his fingertips.

Anything Wendy Clarke couldn’t handle in her restaurant, he could settle it with just one word.

In reality, he was just taking advantage of the Zhekova family’s reputation and connections.

The reason why people were willing to agree to his requests, treating him respectfully and solving problems so readily, was it not because of the Zhekova family?

But from now on, these resources from the Zhekova family would no longer be available to him.

He wouldn’t be able to achieve anything.

Those people had extremely keen senses.

Soon others would know that the Zhekova family had abandoned him.

The people who used to fawn over him, curry favor with him, who could solve all his problems, would no longer acknowledge him.

Ethan Zhekova was very clear, those people were just that pragmatic.

But that’s just human nature.

He hoped the Old Master could retract this order.

The Old Master showed no willingness to quarrel with Ethan Zhekova over this matter.

Only by completely cutting off all of Ethan Zhekova’s support and making him submit, would he be truly afraid.

The Old Master waved his hand towards the door.

The two guards who had been waiting at the door came in and took up positions on either side of Ethan Zhekova.

Adrian Zhekova felt a vague sense of familiarity with the scene before him.

It took him a while to recall, oh, he had Wendy Clarke and Christy Xenos handled the same way in the hotel.

Ethan Zhekova was truly anxious now.

The Old Master was obviously serious this time.

He had even ordered him to be carried out!

If people saw this, he would lose face!

“Grandfather!” Ethan Zhekova hurriedly said, “I will change all of what you’ve mentioned!

Please spare me this once!”

Losing face at home was better than in public.

“I’m already jobless, From tonight on I will change my ways and start anew,” Ethan Zhekova promised, “I will no longer contend with my older brother, nor will I hurt Cindy and Morgan.”

“I…

I’ll apologize to Cindy!” Ethan Zhekova showed he could adapt to the situation.

The person who in the past wouldn’t even give Cindy a second glance, was now bowing his head to her: “Cindy, will you forgive me?”

“Cindy, I know I was wrong,” Ethan Zhekova said, “Will you forgive me this once, please?”

“In fact, I never intended to harm you.

I just wanted them to stop you on the road and prevent you from going to school.

It was the people who botched the job, making the situation seem rather severe.

But actually, they wouldn’t dare to harm you.”

“Cindy, Sister-in-law, I knew the limits.

Of course, this is not to say that it’s right for me to have such twisted thoughts,” Ethan Zhekova quickly stated, “I promise I will never harbor such thoughts again.

Please forgive me this once.”

The Old Master did not want to put Cindy in a difficult position.

Ethan Zhekova was deliberately trying to make things difficult for Cindy.

He believed Cindy was easy to bully.

Chapter 1311: After All, I Am The Direct Heir_1 Perhaps they thought that since he begged so hard, the soft-hearted little girl, Cindy would easily relent.

And maybe she couldn’t swallow down her pride, and still wanted to play the saint.

What he had done affected both Cindy and Morgan.

As those involved in the matter, if Cindy forgave him…

Then the Old Master wouldn’t have a reason to punish him anymore, would he?

At least, there wouldn’t be a reason for such a severe punishment.

Thus, Ethan Zhekova was shamelessly and relentlessly apologizing to Cindy.

...

To him, what did losing a bit of dignity matter when it was all for his own sake?

Ethan believed he showed great skill in bending and stretching according to circumstances.

The Old Master was worried that Cindy might have a hard time refusing Ethan outright, coming off as unkind.

So he spoke, “You don’t have to plead with Cindy.

Even if Cindy forgives you, my order won’t change.”

“The way you are now, you’re essentially forcing Cindy to forgive you, whether she wants to or not,” the Old Master coldly stated.

“What, are you trying to squeeze against the soft spots?

A grown man, constantly troubling women and children.

Do you have any sense of dignity left?

You’re shameless, truly!”

At this, Ethan Zhekova had nothing to say.

Even if Cindy forgave him, the Old Master wouldn’t change his mind.

Ethan was seething with rage on the inside.

Cindy thought, it’s one thing for the Old Master to stand up for her, to think for her.

But she can’t always hide behind others while they confront the villains, and she huddled, pure, and unharmed at the back.

She wouldn’t be able to respect herself if she did so.

“Even if you ask, I wouldn’t forgive you,” said Cindy.

“You harbored ill intentions against Morgan and me, and you jealousy against Adrian.

Any moment of his success is intolerable to you.

Even if you apologize now, it’s not genuine, but merely for your own benefit to avoid any loss.”

“Why didn’t you apologize before?

Waiting until now, really makes it seem like you’re taking advantage of me.

I’m not someone you can manipulate,” Cindy coldly laughed.

“You can stop weaving your webs of deceit.”

The Old Master nodded in approval.

Just that kind of assertiveness was correct.

Since everyone else in the family was backing her up, if Cindy still acted meek at this point, it would actually upset the Old Master.

But Cindy had never, ever let them down.

Only Ethan had no clue.

Believing he had some quirks of cleverness, but instead, he used those tricks on such a degrading task.

Even if he did use them, he still failed.

Everyone could see right through it.

The Old Master was thoroughly upset.

Waving his hand, he commanded, “Take him away, now.”

The Old Master really didn’t want to see this irritating mess any longer.

The guards wouldn’t hesitate to lay their hands because of who Ethan was.

They only followed the Old Master’s orders.

Even if the Old Master were to command them to chase out Adrian Zhekova, they would still not hesitate.

“Don’t touch me!” Ethan said bitterly.

Being carried out like this, how disgraceful!

“I can walk out myself!” Ethan said sharply.

But, since the Old Master had ordered Ethan to be carried out, he must be carried out.

The two men didn’t let go.

When they reached the door, they lifted him up just like a chicken, lifting him over the high door sill.

All the way down the corridor, Ethan angrily said, “Let go, I can walk on my own!”

But the two men didn’t seem to hear at all, there was no response.

Ethan angrily said, “Even if I have been stripped of all resources and contacts now, I am still a member of the Zhekova family.

You should respect me as such!”

The guard responded expressionlessly, “We only follow the Old Master’s orders.

We must carry out his commands to the letter.”

Ethan Zhekova: “…”

He gritted his teeth and said, “Don’t think you can look down on me and insult me just because I have fallen from grace now!”

The guard: “…”

This guy is sick.

They were just following orders.

Where were they disrespecting him?

Ethan had a lot of drama playing out in his own mind.

“The current situation is only temporary.” Ethan threatened, “Once the orders are lifted, and I return to my former status, you two be careful of your decisions today!”

The guard: “…”

“We’re just doing our job.

We have to do it properly.” said the guard.

Ethan was furious.

How could these two iron men be so inflexible!

“I will return to my position eventually!

After all, I’m the rightful heir!” Ethan declared loudly.

The guard: “…”

The guard just stopped speaking.

This man probably couldn’t comprehend human speech.

The whole way, Ethan, being carried, felt tormented.

It was exhausting for the two guards as well.

They sped up their pace and hurriedly delivered Ethan to the door.

Just like carrying a small chicken, they again lifted him over the tall doorway.

Then, the gates closed behind Ethan.

Ethan’s first reaction was to look around and check if anyone had seen him.

There was no one around, so Ethan was relieved.

Chapter 1312: Just Got Your Approval_1 Indeed, the chances of being seen here were quite slim.

The family mansion occupied a large area here.

It was surrounded by residences, with no shops, restaurants, or shopping malls in sight.

This was a particularly quiet residential area.

Hence, it was rare for pedestrians to pass by.

There were neither restaurants nor shopping venues.

Ordinary people wouldn’t think of coming here, nor would they casually pass by.

...

And because the mansion was so large, there was a distance between its main gate and the residences on either side.

Therefore, unless the neighbors were good buddies with the Old Madam and wanted to visit her for a chat, they didn’t come by.

The street was now devoid of people.

Ethan Zhekova breathed a sigh of relief.

However, he forgot that even though people wouldn’t visit, they might look out their windows.

He didn’t know such a thing would happen today.

But the Old Master and the Old Madam, when bored, would look outside from their windows.

Ɲονǥᴑ.с0

Gazing at the greenery in the surrounding area was not uncommon.

By chance, they saw everything.

Ethan Zhekova quickly drove off in his car.

He didn’t go home, instead he went to his parents’ place.

As soon as he entered, he felt an unusually heavy atmosphere in the house.

“You have the nerve to come home!” Gabriel Zhekova exploded at the sight of Ethan.

The old man’s face was completely disgraced by him.

How could he face people now?

He couldn’t teach his son.

He had raised such a despicable son!

Even Mila Harrison, who usually protected Ethan, was giving him the cold shoulder.

She had always been protective of Ethan.

Gabriel Zhekova was a strict father.

And she was a lenient mother.

Mila stated in disappointment, “A proverb says that lenient mothers spoil their children.

I guess it’s true.”

“Although I’ve been more protective of you, I don’t think I’ve overindulged you.

I only intervened when your father’s temper was too intense,” Mila continued.

“But neither your father nor I taught you to mistreat women and children!

Whether or not they are our family, it is unacceptable.”

“Even more so, they are now part of our family.

Your father, despite not accepting Cindy Clarke, recognizes her as part of the Zhekova Family.”

“As for Cindy Clarke, you can consider her an outsider.

After all, she just married in.

Before that, she had no relationship with us, blood or otherwise.

Without a long period of interaction, it’s difficult to establish any familial ties.”

“But Morgan Zhekova is a legitimate member of the Zhekova Family,” Mila said, “She shares the same Zhekova blood as you do.

More importantly, she is still a child!”

“Regardless of whether or not she’s a member of our family, you cannot harm a woman and a child, people who have no way of fighting back.

How much satisfaction does that bring you?

Does it make you feel great and mighty?”

Mila drew a deep breath and let out a heavy sigh.

She covered her eyes: “I don’t understand what went wrong.

We’ve never spoiled you, nor taught you to bully the weak.”

“Your father might have put intense pressure on you, but it was intended to make you successful and exceptional.

He never encouraged you to use any means necessary to achieve your goals.

That’s not the way to be successful or excellent!”

“I greatly regret now, that I didn’t stop your father when he was constantly pressuring you to surpass Adrian Zhekova.

Maybe you were too young then, it was too much for you to bear.”

“You’re only thinking about surpassing Adrian Zhekova, beating him, suppressing him.

In pursuit of this thought, this goal, you’ve lost sight of the most basic boundaries in the process.”

“Leave now,” Gabriel Zhekova stated in disappointment, “I’ve given up on the idea of you surpassing Adrian Zhekova, and of you becoming the Family Head.

You don’t have to strive for anything anymore.”

“I am deeply disappointed in what you’ve done and I don’t want to see you for the time being,” Gabriel continued, “When I’ve adjusted my feelings, we can talk.”

Ethan Zhekova looked at Mila.

Mila had no intention of intervening.

Ethan suddenly exploded, “Now you say you’re giving up, but where was this sentiment when you were pushing all the pressure onto me?”

“Whenever you two are together, you always criticize Adrian Zhekova, always grumble about Maverick and his wife,” Ethan said.

“You spit out one complaint after another.

Their faces and phrases dominate my mind, even in my dreams, they are the enemies.”

“Since childhood, you’ve been harping in my ears about surpassing Adrian Zhekova, about reclaiming the position of Family Head, saying that your son cannot lose to Adrian Zhekova!”

“Do you think you bear no responsibility?

Would I be like this if you hadn’t been constantly nagging?”

“All I wanted was to surpass him and gain your approval!”

Chapter 1313: Let the Person Go_1 “I’ve tried everything, if it wasn’t for your constant pushing, would I have taken this step?” Adrian Zhekova shouted, “Now you both act like you’re the good guys with principles, blaming everything on me, as if I’m the one responsible.”

“If it weren’t for your pressure, would I have reached this point?” he exclaimed, “Now all of my connections and resources have been reclaimed by the Old Master!”

Gabriel Zhekova clearly had not anticipated this.

The Old Master had actually reclaimed all of Adrian’s resources.

However, even though he was surprised, he felt it was not unexpected.

“In that case, you should focus on improving yourself,” Gabriel said.

Adrian stared at his father in disbelief, “Dad, are you really giving up?”

“What else can I do?” Gabriel retorted, “I’m fighting for you at my age.

You think I’m doing this for myself?

I’ll retire once I’ve taken control, don’t you realize it’ll all be yours?”

“But now you’re attacking your own family members.

...

If you can’t stand up for yourself, even if I really succeed, it’ll just end up being taken away by others; you just can’t defend it.” He had also lost the power struggle.

However, Gabriel felt too embarrassed to say this out loud.

“If you really have the ability, I would fight for you even if it costs me my life,” he said, “But you don’t, so who am I doing this for?

Is it not just a futile endeavor?”

“If you were capable, would you have resorted to such unorthodox methods?

Who would take the wrong path if they could succeed via the right one?”

“So, you should make good use of this time to improve yourself.

Let the Old Master see your changes.

It’s not impossible to return to your former position and regain your lost resources.”

The premise was that he truly wanted to change his ways for the better.

The Old Master was not a fool.

He could tell at a glance whether Adrian was truly remorseful or not.

“If you work quietly and give it your all, there may still be hope,” Gabriel said.

Even though the Old Master had reclaimed all of Adrian’s resources.

But wasn’t he still here?

His resources were still intact, and Adrian couldn’t do without them.

The only drawback was that other people might hear about it and it might be a bit embarrassing.

Moreover, Adrian was now unable to command others.

He had to go through Gabriel for everything.

Gabriel felt this was quite good, at least he could better understand what Adrian was doing on a daily basis.

Seeing what Adrian had done to Cindy Clarke and Morgan Zhekova, Gabriel had some doubts about whether Adrian was frequently up to no good.

“Alright, you should go now,” Gabriel dismissed him.

He really didn’t want to see Adrian at this point.

Adrian also had his own plans and left first.

As soon as he got back to his car, he immediately called Wendy Clarke.

Her voice was clearly heard in the recording.

If she didn’t give the recorder to Master Adrian, then who did?

Unexpectedly, Wendy Clarke had silently betrayed him.

He had truly underestimated her.

Even though he was stripped of his resources, dealing with Wendy Clarke was still an easy task.

Currently, Wendy was still tied up in the hotel room.

Without receiving an order from Master Adrian, his men wouldn’t let Wendy go.

Now they had Wendy’s mobile phone.

When Adrian called, one of them noticed.

‘Adrian Zhekova’ appeared on the screen.

They wouldn’t let Wendy answer the phone.

She was still gagged.

If they let Wendy answer the call and she ripped off the tape, what would happen if she blurted out something?

So, they simply hung up and didn’t answer.

Adrian stared at his mobile phone with a grim expression.

Wendy actually declined his call!

Was she feeling guilty?

She had just betrayed him and now she didn’t dare answer his call.

Furious, Adrian didn’t give up and quickly redialed Wendy’s number.

One of the men simply switched off Wendy’s mobile phone.

Wendy was extremely anxious.

Who was calling?

ṅονǤ0.сο

If she could answer the call, she might be able to get someone to rescue her.

At this moment, one of their phones rang.

“Master Adrian,” one of them promptly answered.

“The job is done, let her go,” Master Adrian said.

“Yes.” After hanging up, one of them went to untie Wendy.

However, while one person untied her, two others kept holding her down to prevent her from making a fuss.

Afterward, they returned Wendy’s mobile phone to her.

One on each side, they each grabbed her arm.

There was no one else in the grand lobby, so they weren’t worried about being seen.

They took her to the hotel lobby like this.

When they reached the entrance, the door automatically opened.

They pushed Wendy out of the hotel’s main entrance.

When the doors of the hotel closed, Wendy turned her head and saw them turn around and walk away.

Only then did she twist her wrist and walk down the steps.

Chapter 1314: Something Smells Off_1 The diapers bought were not a well-known brand.

He simply chose the cheapest one from the nearest convenience store as shown on the takeout app.

Thus, the quality was honestly not great.

The absorption was poor.

Even now, Wendy Clarke’s pants were still damp.

Plus, it was already evening, and the temperature had dropped.

When the wind blew, the damp pants clung to her legs, making Wendy shiver.

...

But that wasn’t the most devastating part.

The worst was that when the wind blew, a rank odor rose directly up.

Wendy, of course, knew what it was.

Her face flushed badly as she swallowed her humiliation.

Fortunately, the restaurant was not open to the public today, so there weren’t many people nearby.

Moreover, she had driven.

Once she got inside the car, she wouldn’t have to worry.

Judging by the smell in the car, however, she’d have to give it a thorough cleaning.

Wendy looked around, afraid of being seen.

She tiptoed to her car, and after the struggle of getting into it, she started the car only to find that all the tires were damaged.

Getting out of the car to inspect the damage, Wendy found that all four tires had been punctured!

Even if only one had been punctured, Wendy could have reluctantly driven home.

But now, all four were punctured!

The car was undrivable.

Yet the thought of taking a taxi, she wouldn’t dream of it.

Once inside, it would be just her and the driver.

Wouldn’t the driver immediately know that the smell was coming from her?

Wendy would never allow that to happen.

After some thought, Wendy came up with a solution.

She called a towing company.

She could have them tow her car home.

Sure enough, this worked.

Before long, the towing company arrived, secured her car, and towed it away.

Meanwhile, Wendy stayed in her car, never getting out.

Until they reached her residential area’s entrance, where the tow truck was too large to enter and had to temporarily park at the roadside.

Wendy had previously discussed with them to first take her home and then tow the car to the Auto Service Center.

However, Wendy had forgotten that a truck of that size couldn’t enter her residential area.

When Wendy purchased her house, she had specifically considered the location and convenience of living.

The residential area was upscale, managed in a closed manner.

The location was decent, with a key point being the convenience of living.

There were three large supermarkets and several 24-hour convenience stores in the vicinity.

A trip to the supermarket was a comfy 20-minute walk.

Even a convenience store would take just about ten minutes to reach on foot.

A street away were a plethora of restaurants offering various dishes, from barbecues and hotpot to different types of stir-fry.

This convenience meant that there were definitely plenty of people on the road.

People came and went to the convenience stores, lazily visited the supermarkets in the evening for a bit of shopping, and met others for meals at restaurants.

Additionally, the residential area entrance was located on a main road.

Many of the residents drove home from work.

Everyone’s cars would line up as they waited to enter.

The road was often jammed.

You could say it was considerably crowded.

Now Wendy had to step out of the car with these many people around.

She felt incredibly uncomfortable.

But the tow truck really couldn’t get in.

Wendy could only grit her teeth and step out, bowing her head, trying to keep as far away from the surrounding people as possible.

However, she had greatly underestimated the intensity of her body odor.

It could be considered a collection of the entire afternoon’s ‘essence.’ She hadn’t been able to ‘hold it in’ several times in the afternoon.

After the first time, she didn’t bother trying to hold it in anymore.

After all, trying to hold it in meant suffering oneself, so she had given up.

Therefore, the intensity of her body odor was indeed quite high.

Although Wendy had tried to stay as far away from pedestrians as possible, the sidewalk was only so wide, so she couldn’t be that far from others.

The pedestrians smelled a weird odor and rushed by, holding their breath and frowning.

Some who were more mindful identified the source of the odor, and their gaze landed on Wendy.

Just then, a gust of wind blew over.

The odor became stronger.

The pedestrians became even more sure that the smell was coming from Wendy.

Some already couldn’t help covering their noses.

Seeing this, Wendy could only bow her head and speed up.

However, this didn’t allow her to maintain distance from the pedestrians.

The odor became more intense as she passed by them.

Ɲονցօ.сο

Finally, she reached the residential area gate.

The security guard greeted her, “Miss Clarke, you didn’t drive home today?” No sooner had he finished speaking than he noticed the strange smell.

It was especially strong when Wendy walked past him.

The security guard couldn’t help but step back several steps before he awkwardly stood his ground.

Wendy’s face flushed red, and she dashed into the residential building.

Unluckily, she encountered someone in the elevator.

The elevator’s space was narrow and closed.

Chapter 1315: Only She Remains_1 Even a slight smell can be quite noticeable, let alone the overwhelming odor on Wendy Clarke.

The neighbor entering the building was immediately hit by a pungent stench.

So unbearable was the smell that they hastily retreated, opting not to use the elevator.

It was agreeable to Wendy, who was content with having the elevator to herself and avoiding any awkward encounters.

However, their reactions made Wendy too embarrassed to lift her head.

Seeing them retreat, Wendy hurriedly closed the elevator doors.

Upon arriving home, she realized that her relief was short-lived.

...

Because she was the only one left at home.

Joshua Clarke had already been escorted to the airport by Adrian Zhekova’s men and sent back to Nork City.

Judging by the time, Joshua should have arrived in Nork City by now.

Wendy picked up her mobile phone, only to find it off.

She recalled that one of Adrian’s subordinates must have turned it off.

Before it was switched off, there seemed to have been two incoming calls.

Wendy guessed that the calls were probably from Joshua, so she powered on her phone.

Surprisingly, the incoming calls were not from Joshua.

No matter how much she scrolled, she couldn’t find any missed call from him.

She gave a cynic laugh.

Joshua really couldn’t care less about anyone else.

After returning to Nork City, he disregarded both her and Christy Xenos.

He did not even bother to call and ask how she and Christy were doing.

They were still tied up by the time Joshua left.

Doesn’t he worry at all?

However, Wendy could not dwell on blaming Joshua now.

For she noticed calls from Ethan Zhekova.

The most recent two, to be precise.

The two calls before her phone was switched off, were indeed from Ethan.

The sight of Ethan’s name made Wendy shiver uncontrollably.

Especially after handing over the evidence to Adrian today.

Although Adrian promised not to reveal it to Ethan, the sight of Ethan’s name still made her feel guilty.

More so because she wasn’t the one who ended the calls – Adrian’s subordinate did.

But Ethan didn’t know that.

Two calls cut short, followed by a switched-off phone.

Ethan must be fuming.

Wendy decided she’d better play dead for now.

She consoled herself, “Ethan probably still doesn’t know about me betraying him.

His calls may not necessarily be about that, maybe it was about something else.” “But I can’t call him back right now,” Wendy murmured to herself, “I’m not feeling stable, talking to him right now will easily betray my guilt.” “Even if he didn’t know, my guilty attitude may give me away, and he’d find out,” Wendy paced around, deciding to ignore Ethan for the time being.

But seeing Ethan’s name in the missed calls record made her uneasy and guilty.

She decided to delete the record.

Then, she, ostrich-like, finally felt a lot more at ease.

Wendy quickly changed her clothes, took a bath, and scrubbed off the odour on her.

However, she rushed into the bathroom too hastily, eager to wash off the smell on her, and forgot to bring in clean clothes and a dry hair cap.

While still in the shower, Wendy used the warm air lingering from the shower to keep warm.

She hollered, “Mom, bring my pajamas and dry hair cap.” But she received no response even after a while.

Only then did Wendy remember that Christy had been taken away, and she was the only one left at home.

Wendy’s heart sank.

For the first time, she felt the importance of having Christy around.

Maybe Christy couldn’t help her much.

But the presence of Christy offered her comfort and steadiness.

She could talk to Christy about anything.

Ɲονցᴑ.сο

Even though Christy often came up with bad ideas and vexed Wendy a lot, Wendy still missed having her around right now.

Even if Christy was beside her, spinning out bad ideas, that would be ok.

Having somebody by her side who supported her unconditionally gave her strength, reducing the loneliness.

But now, she was all alone.

Wendy took a deep breath, wrapped herself in a towel.

Chapter 1316: Don’t I Care About You?_1 She left the bathroom, changing into her pyjamas in the bedroom.

When she came out, the house was empty, devoid of any trace of human presence.

ƝονǤᴑ.сο

Only after she had taken a shower and relaxed did she realize how hungry she was.

But there was no Christy Xenos to cook for her anymore.

Wendy Clarke wanted to contact Adrian Zhekova, to ask him when he’d let Christy Xenos go.

But she realized, for the first time, that she did not even have Adrian Zhekova’s contact details.

...

Frustrated, Wendy Clarke wondered if she had been played by Adrian Zhekova.

But when it came to dealing with Adrian Zhekova, she realized she had no leverage.

Tomorrow was Sunday, she couldn’t confront him at the office even if she wanted to.

If Christy Xenos still hasn’t come back tomorrow, then she would confront Adrian Zhekova in Pingla first thing Monday morning.

This was a promise Adrian Zhekova had made to her.

He must keep his word.

Just then, Wendy Clarke’s phone started to ring.

Wendy Clarke jumped, fearing that it was Ethan Zhekova who was calling.

But then she saw it was Joshua Clarke.

Wendy Clarke picked up and said, “Dad.”

“Wendy, how are you and your.

.

.mom?” Joshua Clarke figured that since Wendy was able to answer the phone freely, she must have been released.

And besides, he never thought Adrian Zhekova would harm them.

The most he would do was temporarily detain them, to prevent them from disrupting the wedding.

“You’re home?” Wendy Clarke asked.

“I’m home.” He arrived in the evening, “A lot of the bedding and clothes in the house were mouldy, unusable, so I bought some new ones.

I’ve cleaned the house again, and now it’s mostly tidy.”

“There’s some more stuff left to do, but that will have to wait till tomorrow,” as Joshua Clarke said, “I’m really too tired today.”

Despite claiming exhaustion, Joshua Clarke’s voice sounded relaxed and happy.

Returning to the familiar environment of Nork City, Joshua Clarke truly felt a sense of ease and comfort.

And not having Christy Xenos and Wendy Clarke watching over him.

Although he was alone, he felt a sense of freedom.

He felt incredibly free, incredibly comfortable.

He was free of any restrictions, he could do whatever he wanted, say what he wanted to say.

Adrian Zhekova was also providing him with living expenses, which were much more than what Wendy gave him.

His living expenses were covered, he had no worries about food and clothing, and he had a big villa to live in.

He could even hire a housemaid, and still have money left over.

Joshua Clarke planned to contact a housekeeping company tomorrow to arrange for a maid.

To clean, do laundry, and cook.

He wouldn’t have to do anything all day, just relax!

Wasn’t this much more comfortable than being in Belfard?

Wendy Clarke could tell that Joshua Clarke was in a good mood.

This made her somewhat annoyed and she asked, “Aren’t you worried about mom and me at all?”

Joshua Clarke stopped briefly, a slight hint of guilt in his voice, “Isn’t this why I called?”

“I estimated the time and you should have arrived in the evening.

It’s a bit late to call now, isn’t it?” Wendy Clarke sarcastically replied.

“Wendy, what do you mean by that?

Don’t I care about you guys?

I wanted to call earlier, but I was afraid you wouldn’t be able to answer if you were still being held.

It’s late now and you should be back.

That’s why I called.”

“And remember, Adrian Zhekova is Cindy’s husband.

He won’t hurt you.

Didn’t he already send me back to Nork City?

All you and your mother might have had to do was suffer a little.”

If anything really went wrong, it wouldn’t be possible.

“And your.

.

.mom?

” Joshua Clarke asked again.

Chapter 1317: Still the Old Acquaintance _1 “I don’t know where Adrian Zhekova has taken my mom.

I was released, but I still have no idea where my mom is.

She hasn’t returned till now.” Wendy Clarke said.

“This…” Joshua Clarke said with difficulty, “Look at my situation, I can’t go back either.

Zhekova’s men are watching me, I can’t leave Nork City.” Wendy smirked scornfully.

She did not expect Joshua to come back and help, and she even had no expectations for him to provide useful advice.

However, Joshua’s behavior of making excuses for himself before saying anything else, really made Wendy feel cold.

...

“I know, aren’t you asking about mom?

I told you about it.

I don’t have Adrian Zhekova’s contact information.” Wendy suddenly thought that Zhekova gives Joshua money every month, so she asked, “Dad, do you have Adrian Zhekova’s contact information?” “No, how can he give it to me.” Joshua didn’t lie.

Even though Adrian Zhekova had promised to give Joshua a fixed amount every month, Zhekova didn’t have to contact him personally.

“Forget it, I’ll think of another way.” Wendy said, “Since you’ve settled down in Nork City and you’re quite happy there, just continue staying there.”

Given Joshua’s timid character, he always hid behind others. Now he’s hiding back in Nork City, how could he voluntarily come back?

He might be very happy in Nork City right now.

Wendy didn’t have the mood to talk to him any longer, so she hung up the call.

On Sunday, as expected Christy Xenos didn’t return.

Wendy can’t be said to be disappointed, even though she was hopeful, she had a premonition in her heart that Christy wouldn’t be able to come back.

She stayed home alone, suddenly unable to muster any enthusiasm.

She didn’t even bother running the restaurant.

She felt lonely and helpless.

ƝονǤο.ƈօ

Nothing aroused her interest and she lost her usual energy for constant struggles.

On Sunday at home, she hadn’t even eaten a proper meal.

She didn’t feel hungry and she lost her appetite.

She only ate a few pieces of biscuit all day.

Monday finally came, Wendy went to Pingla early in the morning, just waiting at the door.

She arrived early, before the people of Pingla went to work, when the sky was just getting bright.

Then she began to watch the vehicles entering Pingla.

Pingla has a parking lot, both above and below ground.

They each have their pros and cons.

The underground one is not exposed to wind, sun and rain, can keep the car clean, and you don’t have to sit in a hot car after the sun.

But it isn’t as convenient as the surface parking lot.

If they can choose, most people in Pingla still choose convenience.

But whether it’s ground or underground, they all have to pass through the location chosen by Wendy.

Wendy kept observing, out of fear she’d miss Zhekova’s car.

Finally, she saw it.

She quickly rushed over, knocking on Adrian Zhekova’s car window.

“Adrian Zhekova!” Wendy shouted, “Where is my mom?” To her surprise, Adrian Zhekova was really taken aback.

He didn’t expect Wendy to actually care about Christy Xenos.

Even coming to the Company specifically to confront him for Christy.

This was much better than Joshua.

According to his subordinate’s report, after Joshua returned to Nork City, he didn’t show any concern for Wendy and Christy at all.

At this moment, Adrian Zhekova felt that Joshua was not as good as Wendy.

But even so, Adrian Zhekova didn’t intend to stop the car, he didn’t even intend to slow down.

Wendy couldn’t keep up after running for a few steps.

She thought that Adrian Zhekova would definitely enter through the main entrance of the Pingla building.

So she decided to just wait at the entrance.

But after waiting for a quarter of an hour, half an hour, even an hour, she didn’t see Adrian Zhekova.

After Adrian Zhekova parked his car, he went straight to his Office from the underground parking lot through the elevator.

Wendy had been waiting for so long, she realized something was wrong.

Adrian Zhekova was actually avoiding her!

Was he feeling guilty?

Wendy then walked towards Pingla, as expected, she was stopped by a guard.

Wendy said coldly: “I want to see Adrian Zhekova.” At this moment, two men walked out of Pingla.

Wendy took a look, and it was actually the two guards who had been watching her in the Pleasure Hotel room that day.

They were old acquaintances!

Chapter 1318: Indeed in _1 Yet Wendy Clarke didn’t feel the slightest bit of joy that usually comes with running into “old acquaintances.”

At the sight of them, Wendy’s face turned green.

Seeing them immediately brought back the humiliating scene in the guest room at Sheng Yue.

Furthermore, it was clear that the two of them remembered as well.

How could they forget such an embarrassing episode?

After all, they had been the ones to put the diaper on her!

With a somber face, Wendy heard them say, “Master Adrian knows why you’re here.

We’re going to take you to Christy Xenos.”

Wendy took a defensive step back.

...

They weren’t planning to say they were taking her to Christy and then kidnap her, were they?

One of the guards smirked, saying, “Don’t worry.

If we wanted to kidnap you, we would have done so that day.

ƝονǤο.ƈօ

Why go through all this trouble now?”

“Master Adrian appreciates that you still care for Christy Xenos. Today, specifically because you came looking for Christy, showing some semblance of a conscience, he instructed us to take you to her.”

“You can rest assured, she’s been taken care of very well,” the guard added nonchalantly.

“If you trust us and want to see her, follow us.

If you think this is some trap Master Adrian has set for you, you are more than welcome to leave.

We won’t stop you.”

Wendy weighed her options.

It was as the two guards had said.

If Adrian Zhekova had wanted to do something, he wouldn’t have waited until now.

Although Wendy hadn’t experienced all of Adrian Zhekova’s ruthlessness just yet.

It was enough for Wendy to know that if Adrian Zhekova wanted to retaliate against her, it would be as easy as lifting a finger.

He wouldn’t need to strategize or beat around the bush.

He could simply take the easiest and most straightforward path.

If Adrian Zhekova truly wanted to do something, Wendy running away now would be futile.

So Wendy agreed, “Alright, I’ll go with you.”

Guard A and Guard B then led Wendy to a car.

Seemingly to put Wendy at ease, Guard A drove while Guard B sat in the front passenger seat, leaving Wendy to sit alone in the back row.

They didn’t seem concerned that Wendy might try to jump out of the moving car.

Wendy gradually started to relax.

They didn’t seem to be trying to keep the location where Christy was staying a secret.

The entire way, they openly let Wendy see the route they were taking.

Eventually, they parked at Skyrise Senior Living.

Wendy was familiar with this place.

This was known as the most high-end elderly care center in Belford, if not the entire country.

The cost, service, and all the facilities were top-tier.

Moreover, it was right next to Skyrise Hospital.

It is inevitable that seniors might have sudden health issues or illnesses.

Especially those affluent seniors with severe illnesses.

Even though the rooms in Skyrise Hospital are comfortable.

They are not as comfortable as the elderly care center.

The Elderly Care Center is like a large community.

From villas to apartments of different sizes, one can choose according to their needs and financial ability.

There are gardens, squares, and even schools for seniors.

They can learn dancing, music, calligraphy, photography, and more.

There are also many places for the elderly to gather and chat.

If they don’t want to learn, they can also roam around and enjoy themselves.

All the meals at the restaurant are specially prepared to meet the nutritional needs of the elderly.

One-to-one nanny service is available.

There are nannies who cook at home, while there are separate staff who handle daily cleaning and washing.

If one wants to have a change of taste, they can go to the restaurant.

There are also a variety of shops, from decorative items to clothing, etc.

Additionally, there are facilities like a movie theater.

It’s like a mini, condensed town.

Elders living there won’t feel restrained or bored at all.

The area is already sufficient for them to walk around.

It’s like living in a small town.

Moreso, the proximity to Skyrise Hospital is a key advantage as the hospital is just next door.

Elders who avoid hospital admission come here when the doctor considers that they can recuperate at the elderly care center.

In case of sudden illness or an emergency, the center can immediately send the person to Skyrise Hospital for treatment.

It’s very fast.

Even though Christy Xenos held traditional views, believing that children should care for their parents in their old age.

Why live in an elderly care home when she has her own house?

How can it be as comfortable as living in her own house?

Even if she were bedridden and immobilized, they should still take care of her at her bedside every day.

But she also once sighed with emotion, “Living a wealthy life is amazing.

As long as you have money, you won’t have to worry about where to go when you’re old.

You can still live comfortably.”

Wendy was taken aback.

Did Adrian Zhekova actually send Christy Xenos here?

Considering how Christy Xenos treated Cindy Clarke, could Adrian Zhekova still treat Christy Xenos this well?

Yes, Wendy thought that Christy Xenos living here was surprisingly good.

“Let’s go, Christy Xenos is here.” Guard A said.

To Wendy’s continued surprise, Christy Xenos was indeed there.

Chapter 1319_1 Wendy Clarke followed the two into the Elderly Care Center.

They hitched a ride on the electric shuttle car used within the center.

The shuttle was similar to those used on golf courses.

It was slow, electric, and environmentally friendly.

Accidents within the center were also relatively infrequent.

Healthy elders, if they wished, could drive the car themselves.

Those who weren’t up to it could have the driver transport them.

...

The two guards escorted Wendy in the car around the center before stopping in front of an apartment building.

Wendy followed them into the apartment.

The living conditions in the apartment were excellent and the exterior decorations were no less impressive than the other high-end residences she had seen.

If no one mentioned this was in an Elderly Care Center, it would be mistaken for a high-end residential area in Belfard.

From the looks of it, this place was even more upscale than her home.

The three of them entered the elevator.

The inside of the elevator was also well-designed.

And it wasn’t just for show.

Guard A pressed three, and the elevator quickly arrived at the third floor.

The three exited the elevator, and so far, Wendy was impressed with what she saw.

Eventually, they stopped in front of an apartment door.

Wendy saw that the door was equipped with a fingerprint lock.

The lock was fitted with a peephole feature.

It could transfer a video of those approaching the door on the screen inside.

Shortly after Guard A rang the doorbell, someone from inside responded, “Coming!”

The door was opened by a woman in her thirties.

“This is Christy Xenos’ daughter, she has come to visit.” Guard A stated.

“Oh, come in.” The woman moved aside, inviting the three of them in.

Upon stepping in, Wendy spotted Christy Xenos sitting in the living room watching TV.

Around her were snacks like dried shrimp, squid strings, and pork floss buns.

While she watched TV and drank tea, she seemed more at ease than she did at home.

“Mom?” Wendy called out.

“Wendy!” Hearing her voice, Christy Xenos immediately set down her cup of tea and rushed over.

“Wendy!” Christy Xenos hold onto Wendy’s arm, feeling all over it, “Are you hurt?

How did Adrian Zhekova treat you after he took me away?”

Wendy quickly glanced at the two guards beside her, afraid they might report their conversation back to Adrian Zhekova.

“Mom, I’m okay.” Wendy quickly reassured.

She decided not to mention the humiliation she suffered in the afternoon.

If it had just been Christy Xenos, Wendy would have definitely confessed and cursed Zhekova with her.

However, with Zhekova’s men and the nanny present, Wendy couldn’t bear to say such things.

“Really?” Christy Xenos scrutinized her carefully.

Seeing that Wendy really wasn’t injured, she relaxed.

Wendy thought to herself, this is what genuine care looks like.

Not like Joshua Clarke, who just pays lip-service.

Moreover, his half-hearted consolation clearly originated from his wish to appear less selfish and heartless.

“Mom, have you been here this whole time?” Wendy asked.

“Yes, I was quite scared when they took me away, but then I discovered they’d brought me here.” Christy Xenos said, “Did you come to take me home?”

“No need to fantasize, you won’t be able to leave.” Guard A crushes Christy’s hopes with a cold tone.

Christy Xenos’ thinking was, no matter how good this place may be, it cannot compare to her own home, with Wendy keeping an eye on her.

Even if Wendy didn’t take care of her as thoroughly as the care center could.

If Wendy is her daughter, she should be responsible for taking care of her in her old age.

No one else can replace her.

Even if she herself became bedridden, Wendy would still be responsible for her every need.

“You’re illegally confining me!” Christy Xenos blurted out.

Guard B scoffed, “Where have you seen a detainee treated so well?

The cost of living here for a year can get you a house in Belfard.”

He felt that Adrian Zhekova was too benevolent.

Was it necessary to treat Christy Xenos this well?

Christy Xenos knew this place was expensive, but she didn’t know it was this extravagant.

She gasped in shock.

It seemed strange to Christy Xenos.

Adrian Zhekova would rather spend a large sum of money to keep her shut away here, yet when she’d asked Cindy Clarke for money before, he adamantly refused.

How can rich people be so peculiar?

Do they assess the value of money differently from others, or what?

What she didn’t realize was that Adrian Zhekova never cared about the cost.

The only thing he wanted was to trap Christy Xenos.

Even if he had given her the money before, Christy Xenos would still harass Cindy Clarke every day.

But now things were different.

Although living here was expensive, Christy Xenos couldn’t escape

Cindy Clarke could finally live in peace.

Zhekova wouldn’t do anything illegal, of course he wouldn’t confine her or anything

If he couldn’t do that, then he might as well let Christy Xenos live comfortably here.

Christy Xenos couldn’t leave here, but she had everything she wanted.

Even if she called the police, it wouldn’t help.

When the police asked what happened?

Adrian Zhekova would simply say he was fulfilling his duty of taking care of the elderly.

The evidence was right there, and no matter how much Christy Xenos made a fuss, nothing could be done.

“What do you mean?” Wendy asked displeased, “Adrian Zhekova promised me, he would let my mom go!”

Chapter 1320: Wailing and Plundering_1 “Master Adrian said, he brought Christy Xenos here to fulfill their duty of care together with Mrs., not to imprison her.

If you don’t agree, you can certainly call the police and see if they think Christy Xenos is being held hostage.”

“Christy Xenos is free to move around in the Elderly Care Center.

The center just tries to prevent Christy Xenos from freely leaving for her health and safety.

However, her freedom within the center is not restrained.”

“Master Adrian also said, if you behave honestly…” Guard B told Wendy Clarke, “he might allow you to visit Christy Xenos occasionally.

But without his permission, you can’t get in.”

As long as Wendy Clarke cares about Christy Xenos, she can be kept in check, keeping her from causing trouble.

At least, she wouldn’t dare to annoy Cindy Clarke again.

Even if Christy Xenos had good food and drink here.

...

But Wendy Clarke knew that it doesn’t mean she can relax completely.

If she goes against Adrian Zhekova’s intentions, within a minute Adrian Zhekova can transfer Christy Xenos away.

As for where to transfer next, it’s unpredictable.

Wendy Clarke indeed cares about Christy Xenos and doesn’t dare to rashly act.

Adrian Zhekova is not here now.

She doesn’t even have someone to bargain with.

Even if she talked to these two guards, it would be no use.

They are only responsible for communicating Adrian Zhekova’s intentions.

Of course, even if Adrian Zhekova were standing in front of her, Wendy Clarke didn’t have much room to negotiate.

The outcome would be the same.

“Today, I brought you here just to show you that Christy Xenos is fine.” said Guard A, “As long as you don’t go against Master Adrian’s wishes, Christy Xenos can live happily here.”

“And the requirements put forward by Master Adrian are not difficult.

As long as you refrain from participating in anything related to Cindy Clarke and stop plotting against her, that’s enough.” Guard A said.

Wendy Clarke turned her head and asked Christy Xenos: “Mom, are you really okay here?”

“Yes, it’s pretty good.

There are people taking care of me, I don’t have to cook, there are people washing my clothes.

I can wander anywhere in the shopping mall, some famous restaurants outside have opened branches here too.” Christy Xenos said, “The only thing is, I don’t feel secure without you by my side.

I still want to live with you.”

“I want to talk privately with my mom.” Wendy Clarke didn’t want to hear Christy Xenos talking like this.

At this point, she still had this thought.

Didn’t she hear what the two guards just said?

“Talk right here.” Guard A said.

“I want to talk in private.” Wendy Clarke insisted.

“Then maybe we should leave now.” Guard A did not give in.

“Wait!” Wendy Clarke quickly said, “Alright, I will speak here.”

Wendy Clarke then said to Christy Xenos: “Mom, you also heard what they just said, you can’t leave, and I can’t take you away.

If I insist, not only can I not take you away, but they will also transfer you to somewhere else, and they won’t bring me to see you anymore.”

Wendy Clarke sighed: “The conditions here are so good anyway, you just stay here temporarily.

I will come to see you, and when the chance comes in the future, I will take you away.”

“What are you saying?” Christy Xenos immediately disapproved, “Your coming to see me is like a prison visit.

What freedom do I have here?”

“I raised you single-handedly, spent a lot of money sending you to study abroad, gave in to you in everything, helped you with everything.

And now when I am old, you don’t want to care for me?”

“Mom, what are you talking about!

When did I say I wouldn’t take care of you?

I want to take you away, but do you think Adrian Zhekova would let me?

Do you think I can compete with Adrian Zhekova?

You say these things without considering the circumstances!”

“Isn’t it better here than being cared for by me at home?” Wendy Clarke said, “I am usually busy with work and, honestly, most of the time I can’t take care of you.

Here, you are taken care of 24 hours a day.

They can respond immediately to any problems.”

“I also try to see you as much as possible.

How can you say I’m not taking care of you?”

Christy Xenos didn’t listen, just sat on the ground crying out loud: “God!

My own daughter doesn’t care for me, what did I do wrong in my life?”

“Cindy Clarke may be heartless, but I have been sincere to you, Wendy Clarke!” Christy Xenos didn’t shed a single tear but cried with a twisted face, “Wendy, you put your hand on your conscience and tell me, have I ever treated you badly in my life?

I might have done wrong by your father, have done wrong by Cindy, but never by you!”

“I supported and helped you with everything you wanted to do.” Christy Xenos cried out, “Now that I’m old, you suddenly decide to abandon me?

Do you have a conscience at all?”

“Originally people said raising a son would secure your old age, but I was never worried because I have you.

But now you’ve decided not to care for me!

I devoted myself to you, if you abandon me, what can I do?

Will you just ditch me here?”