Ch. 811..820
Chapter 811: Butler Howard with a Loyal and Honest Face_1
Every time she saw her, it was as if she was looking at a stranger, barely even glancing her way.
How was Jenny Kirk supposed to stand this?
However, Adrian Zhekova was someone she could not afford to offend and she simply could not throw a tantrum at him without any regard for consequences.
So she just grabbed every opportunity she could to cling onto Adrian.
Adrian never paid her any mind.
Even in public gatherings, Jenny felt that with so many people present, just out of courtesy, Adrian wouldn’t embarrass her too much.
So in public, she would greet Adrian cheerfully as if they were good friends.
But she simply didn’t expect Adrian to still ignore her completely.
He completely forgot about her existence.
At least he could’ve pretended not to remember her and asked, “Who are you?”
At least then, she would be seen.
And spoken to.
Though it would still be humiliating, at least she would be seen.
But, Adrian Zhekova ignored her as if she were merely air.
The only thing that responded to her was the embarrassing moment of silence.
However, back then, Jenny was only able to stick around Adrian Zhekova for a short while.
She soon went abroad for further studies.
The Zhekova family had never taken interest in her, so they didn’t know that she had gone to study for her master’s degree abroad.
“Nonsense!” The old master scowled. “This is our family feast. What is Gabriel Zhekova thinking, bringing a stranger?”
Is it appropriate to bring a stranger to a family feast?
However, if you asked Aria Evans, she would say that if Gabriel Zhekova knew what was appropriate and what wasn’t, he wouldn’t even dare to aspire for the position of the family head.
Showed how self-unaware he was, thinking he could be the family head. Now, bringing a foreigner, especially a woman who once had hopes for Adrian Zhekova, is no surprise.
But, whether it’s that Jenny Kirk or Gabriel Zhekova, they both were sickening to think about.
Everyone who uses the internet is now aware of Adrian Zhekova’s marriage.
Not to mention Gabriel Zhekova, being a member of the Zhekova family, wouldn’t have needed the internet to learn about it.
The elders certainly must have told him.
What about Jenny Kirk then? Doesn’t she surf the internet?
If she does, how can she not see the news of Adrian Zhekova’s marriage?
When Adrian had announced his marriage, whether it was the official Facebook page of Pingla Culinary Competition, or the one for Pingla Group, both congratulated and shared the news.
Even the Pingla Academy shared it too.
Not to mention the likes of Zane Hamilton and the others, who all also shared and sent their blessings.
It was an impressive showing.
Even though Nathan Spencer and the others were not celebrities, they had tens of millions of fans.
Zane Hamilton himself was in the entertainment circle.
As the owner of the largest film and entertainment company in the entertainment industry, Benjamin Hamilton’s influence covers more than half of it.
Olivia Davis was both an actress and a public relations executive.
Every program with Olivia Davis gains substantial influence, and her fanbase is naturally massive.
There was also Charlotte York, a top-tier actress.
Every post she made on Facebook gained numerous followers.
She didn’t even need to use marketing accounts to hype it. It simply became a hot topic.
Although most of the hot topics these days were bought.
Even if something was popular, it could still fail to trend.
Some topics that were not trending had even more heat than the topics that were.
But who had dared to suppress Adrian Zhekova’s trending news?
Or even dared to ask for money from him?
So, based on real heat from various shares and likes, it naturally became a hot topic.
And as hot as a rocket, it shot straight to the top.
If Jenny Kirk claimed she didn’t know about it, she would simply be pretending to be blind.
Knowing full well that Adrian Zhekova was married, she still came over during the New Year. Wasn’t she trying to sicken everyone?
It wasn’t about what Jenny Kirk was thinking.
But certainly Gabriel Zhekova was trying to sicken Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke.
“Eh? Why haven’t they come in yet?” the old madam wondered.
Quite a bit of time had passed.
They should have come in by now.
Butler Howard coughed lightly, saying, “I haven’t opened the door for them yet.”
Everyone: “…”
Then, Butler Howard dutifully explained, “Since Miss Kirk is here, I thought I should ask your opinions first.”
Everyone: “…”
No one could tell that you did it on purpose.
They had initially thought that Butler Howard had already opened the door for Gabriel Zhekova.
That’s why they took advantage of the fact that Gabriel hadn’t come in yet and chatted a bit more.
Once Gabriel and the others arrived, they wouldn’t be able to freely speak their minds anymore.
Meanwhile, they had also gossiped about Jenny Kirk.
Who knew that after talking for so long, they still hadn’t seen Gabriel and the others come in.
As it turned out, Butler Howard hasn’t even opened the door for them yet.
However, the old master wasn’t bothered at all.
The corner of old master’s mouth twitched, holding back a smirk of schadenfreude, he said, “Yes, yes, it’s good to be cautious.”
“So now…” Butler Howard asked old master again.
The Old Master patted the armrest of the sofa a few times and said, “Just ask her outright, why did Miss Kirk come here? What’s going on?”
“In any case, you don’t have to be polite with them. Tell them that today is our family feast and if a stranger wants to come, they should pick a different time. Today is not suitable,” Old Master said bluntly.
“Yes,” Butler Howard answered, then returned to the entrance hall.
Because she was curious, the old madam also went over.
On seeing this, the Old Master, who was also curious about Gabriel Zhekova’s response, decided to go too.
Jayden Zhekova and Aria Evans, who were always keen to join in fun activities, thought there’d be no harm in following since the elders were going too.
“Come on, let’s go and watch too,” Samson Zhekova, who loved nothing more than a bit of drama, urged Adrian Zhekova.
Adrian Zhekova then looked at Cindy Clarke.
Cindy Clarke’s eyes were shimmering, obviously eager to go.
Since Gabriel Zhekova definitely had ill intentions towards her, why not witness Gabriel’s downfall?
Adrian Zhekova had already mentioned he won’t be complacent about Gabriel Zhekova.
Not only was Cindy Clarke eager to go, but the little one was clearly excited as well.
Being watched by the eager gazes of a pair, big and small.
Adrian Zhekova: “…”
Alright, since everyone wanted to witness this nephew’s drama, what was the harm in letting Cindy Clarke and the little one join?
So Adrian Zhekova just nodded.
Samson Zhekova looked at Cindy Clarke and the little one, feeling that the sister-in-law and nephew were far more influential.
So, they happily went together.
Thankfully, the entrance hall was spacious enough.
Even with everyone there, it was still quite spacious, without feeling too cramped.
They could all see the front door through the panel.
But the people outside couldn’t see them.
As Adrian Zhekova stood there, he suddenly sensed something was off.
He rolled his eyes and said, “Why are we all huddled up here?”
“Of course we’re here to watch the drama unfold,” Samson replied casually.
Chapter 812: Chapter 812: Playing Dumb_1
“…” Adrian Zhekova took a deep breath, feeling some concern for Samson Zhekova’s intelligence.
“We have many CCTV cameras at our front door. By switching on the TV in the living room and tuning it to that channel, we can see what’s going on.”
“We can comfortably sit in the living room and watch the situation at the front door like we’re watching television,” Adrian said.
“Moreover, there are CCTV cameras in every corner of the entrance, ensuring that the footage covers all angles. We can easily switch to any angle we want to see,” Adrian added.
The others: “…”
How could they have forgotten about this!
Indeed, they were so flustered by Gabriel Zhekova that they overlooked this simple solution.
The others suddenly felt as though they had fallen into an intellectual pit of their life.
The Old Master coughed awkwardly and said, “Well then, what are we waiting for? Back to the living room. Let’s return to the living room.”
The Old Master made a shooing gesture.
Because the Old Masters were standing at the innermost part, Adrian and others surrounded them in circles.
To leave, the people on the outermost ring had to move back to the living room first.
So, everyone returned to the living room.
Aunt Evans turned on the television and switched it to the security footage channel.
The screen showed a clear image of the scene at the door.
Aunt Evans handed the CCTV remote control to Adrian Zhekova.
Adrian adjusted it to the most suitable angle.
Perfectly capturing the figures of the four people outside the door.
Butler Howard also took out a walkie-talkie for easy communication with them in the living room.
However, when the doorbell rang earlier, Butler Howard didn’t open the door in time.
Because he thought that the Old Masters wanted to watch the drama unfold.
Opening the door early would kill the excitement, wouldn’t it?
Thus, the four Gabriel Zhekovas were left outside.
In the camera footage, Gabriel Zhekova frowned, looking impatient.
When no one came to open the door.
He pressed the doorbell again.
This time, Butler Howard finally pressed the call button but he still didn’t open the door.
“Mr. Gabriel Zhekova the second.” Butler Howard’s tone remained exceedingly polite.
With visible displeasure, Gabriel responded, “Butler Howard, why haven’t you opened the door yet?”
Butler Howard replied calmly, “Sir, didn’t you, Mrs. Gabriel Zhekova, and Young Master Maverick Zhekova come over today?”
“Yes, so what?” Gabriel asked impatiently, “Can’t you see that?”
“Then who might this extra young lady be…” Butler Howard drag out his words, before asking.
Gabriel frowned, “This is Jenny, don’t you remember?”
Is Butler Howard really going senile, or is he just playing dumb!
“I truly don’t remember, which esteemed family does this young lady hail from?” Butler Howard asked again.
“She’s from the Kirk Family, Jenny Kirk, and she’s also Adrian’s junior.” Gabriel replied.
“Oh, is that so?” The tone Butler Howard used suggested that he didn’t remember Jenny Kirk at all.
Jenny Kirk, standing at the back, turned grim.
Impatient, Gabriel asked, “Is there something you need to discuss that requires us to stand outside without you opening the door? Must we explain ourselves at the door?”
Gabriel felt extremely embarrassed.
He, a dignified member of the Zhekova family, couldn’t even enter his own home.
Especially when it happened in front of outsiders.
Where was he supposed to put his face!
There were some things that Butler Howard couldn’t say outright.
The Old Master took the walkie-talkie from Butler Howard’s hand and said, “You remember what day it is today, don’t you?”
“Old Master.” Gabriel called out.
He respected the Old Master to some extent.
He hadn’t expected the Old Master to interject.
And besides, they had gotten this far, and the Old Master still wouldn’t open the door for him.
Gabriel felt a chill creep down his spine.
“Today is our family feast, the only one in the whole year,” the Old Master said coldly.
“If you don’t want to come, then don’t!” the Old Master spat, “Don’t act reluctantly and gross everybody out by doing disgusting things.”
Gabriel was so agitated that his face turned red. He… what disgusting thing had he done?
This disgusting act… wouldn’t it be referring to bringing Jenny Kirk?
The Old Master nearly blurted it out.
If bringing Jenny Kirk was disgusting, then wasn’t Jenny Kirk disgusting herself?
Jenny Kirk’s face also turned red in embarrassment.
“What did I do?” Gabriel asked innocently.
“I’ll say it one more time, this is a family feast,” the Old Master said coldly, “Family Feast, don’t you understand?”
“What does it mean for a stranger to attend the family feast? If she stays, would she become a Zhekova family member? If the news gets out, how would we explain ourselves? What kind of rumors would be floating around?”
“If everyone is like this, casually bringing people to the family feast, then it won’t be a family feast anymore, it’ll be a party!”
“If you think the once-a-year Zhekova family feast is beneath you, if you think it’s just an ordinary party, then you needn’t bother coming.”
Seizing the opportunity, the Old Master said, “Today, you should go back.”
Gabriel: “…”
How did the situation get to this point?
He had barely said a few words and the Old Master had already made up his mind?
The scope of the Zhekova family feast isn’t that large, consisting only of their family, Jayden Zhekova’s family, and Maverick Zhekova’s family. Just three families, along with the Old Masters.
Even though the scope is small, it’s quite prestigious.
Who would belittle the Zhekova family feast?
Everyone wished they could attend.
Outsiders didn’t have the chance, did they?
Even though he currently finds Maverick Zhekova annoying, he had no plans to cut ties with the Zhekova family and not attend the family feast.
He still had to stay connected with the family mansion.
Missing this once-a-year family feast.
Excluded completely from the mansion.
When a side branch family drifts so far from the Zhekova main family, who would still care?
Therefore, Gabriel would never belittle this family feast.
Gabriel was indeed peculiar.
On one hand, he understood the importance of the Zhekova main family and clung to it earnestly.
On the other hand, he believed in his own abilities, feeling assured that he could replace them.
Jenny Kirk stood at the back, keeping silent.
She hadn’t even stepped through the door and she had already been humiliated.
But she couldn’t be the first to speak.
Gabriel brought her here. As long as Gabriel doesn’t give in, she wouldn’t have to leave.
Gabriel surely wouldn’t have the nerve to explicitly ask her to leave!
So, she remained silent, playing dumb, resisting the urge to speak.
Mila Harrison glanced at Jenny Kirk contemptuously, not bothering to hide her disdain.
What on earth was Jenny Kirk playing at this time!
It was her turn to speak, but she remained silent.
Gabriel had to explain, “It just so happened that Jenny Kirk came to pay us a New Year visit today, and it coincided with our visit to the mansion. She mentioned that she hadn’t seen Adrian and Mr. and Mrs. Maverick Zhekova for years, as well as the two of you, and so she wanted to come along and give her greetings.”
“She doesn’t plan to stay for the meal, she just wishes to give her greetings and then leave.”
Chapter 813: Chapter 813: Where to Put Face _1
Jenny Kirk opened her mouth, unwilling to accept it.
She didn’t come here just to pay respects for the new year.
She wanted to participate in the Family Feast.
Had Gabriel Zhekova’s words not just meant she had to leave after the greeting?
But the door hadn’t even been opened yet.
Jenny Kirk couldn’t deny it.
Shouldn’t she at least be allowed inside to pay her respects?
At least this way, she would still have the chance to go in.
She didn’t want to argue with Gabriel Zhekova’s words or insist that she was there for the Family Feast.
Not only would she not be able to enter, but she would also offend Gabriel Zhekova.
On second thought, Jenny Kirk felt disgusted.
“Pay respects?” The Old Master laughed, “Who pays their respects on the fifth day of the month? The fifth day is for sending off!”
Gabriel Zhekova: “…”
Jenny Kirk: “…”
Mila Harrison stifled a laugh, nearly unable to hold it in.
However, by looking at Gabriel Zhekova, she managed to suppress it.
She has been disliking Jenny Kirk for quite some time.
She didn’t like her when Jenny Kirk was infatuated with Adrian Zhekova.
Felt that Jenny Kirk was too presumptuous.
Doesn’t she know the real situation of the Kirk family?
She even dared to covet Adrian Zhekova.
Adrian Zhekova is the future Family Head, the heir of the entire Zhekova Family.
Jenny Kirk’s ambition was vast.
Of all the people she could set her sights on, she daringly targeted Adrian Zhekova.
One had to admit she truly had an appetite.
Back then, Mila Harrison had looked down on Jenny Kirk.
However, she just thought Kirk Family was not good enough for the Zhekova Family due to her snobbish eyes.
She recently heard Adrian Zhekova married Cindy Clarke, who even had their child.
Although, Mila Harrison still thought Cindy Clarke’s family was less than the Kirks.
Just an ordinary family, marrying into their Zhekova Family, it’s an absolute leap upward.
But they are already married.
Their child is already quite big.
Although Mila Harrison still thought Cindy Clarke was reaching above her station.
But the marriage had been made, so she didn’t have much to say about it.
The one she looked down upon more was Jenny Kirk. Knowing Adrian Zhekova was already married, she still insisted on following him.
Was she thinking others were unaware of her motives?
Such a shameless woman!
Mila Harrison did look down on those of ordinary origins, but that was just in terms of marriage.
She didn’t have any opinion against the individuals themselves.
But she despised Jenny Kirk more for her brazen pursuit of a married man.
It simply goes to show her intentions were selfish and unkind, which was downright wrong!
Mila Harrison thought Jenny Kirk was indeed laughable.
Did Jenny Kirk have any past relationship with Adrian Zhekova? Or did she ever held a lukewarm relationship?
Even if Adrian Zhekova had shown a bit of kindness or partiality to Jenny Kirk, there would still be a little basis for her actions.
Even if she was not acknowledged officially, at least she had legitimate reasons to be persistent, right?
But Adrian Zhekova had never paid the least attention to Jenny Kirk.
Jenny Kirk’s meddling in Cindy Clarke’s business seemed completely ludicrous, didn’t it?
Mila Harrison’s thoughts went here, and she scoffed, her disdain for Jenny Kirk continued to increase.
“I… came to pay respects.” Jenny Kirk said pitifully.
“I didn’t come before because I never visited before, appearing unannounced would seem somewhat impolite.” Jenny Kirk spoke in a most delicate and soft tone.
“I went to Uncle Zhekova’s house to pay respects when I happened to run into Uncle Zhekova and his family going to the family mansion, so I thought I would come along to pay respects, and then I’d leave.” Jenny Kirk bit her lip in grievance.
Her behaviour only made the Zhekova Family seem remarkably impolite.
Such a large family, and they weren’t even willing to accept someone’s kind intend to pay respects?
Was it just a Family Feast?
Even if it was a coincidence, didn’t they have the generosity to accept graciously?
Or were they merely looking for an excuse to send her away?
Unfortunately, Jenny Kirk had miscalculated.
If there had been outsiders present, they might have been touched by her petty scheme.
They might have thought the Zhekova family was in the wrong.
But now, those present were all members of the Zhekova Family.
Who would speak up for her?
Mila Harrison couldn’t stand her in the first place.
Gabriel Zhekova wouldn’t offend his own family for Jenny Kirk.
In fact, Gabriel Zhekova wasn’t planning on helping Jenny Kirk to snatch Adrian Zhekova.
Adrian Zhekova was already married and even has a child.
Could he force Adrian Zhekova to divorce?
Adrian Zhekova had his own parents there, and the Old Master and Madam.
Even though Gabriel Zhekova was ambitious and wanted to compete for the position of Family Head.
He had some self-awareness in this regard.
However, Adrian Zhekova’s marriage was none of his business.
The Old Master, Madam, and Maverick Zhekova and his wife all had no objections; even if Gabriel Zhekova had objections, it wouldn’t matter.
Furthmore, Gabriel Zhekova truly had no objections.
Only a fool would want to force a powerful in-law upon Adrian Zhekova.
Even though he also looked down on the Kirk Family, Kirk Family was at least a family not too big but not too small.
The Kirk family was still quite useful.
Adrian Zhekova himself was already very strong, adding more to his strength was akin to adding oil to the fire.
Wouldn’t that be causing trouble for himself?
Therefore, compared with Jenny Kirk, Gabriel Zhekova was actually quite satisfied with Cindy Clarke.
After all, Cindy Clarke had nothing, and her mother’s family was reportedly a mess.
If she didn’t hold Adrian Zhekova back, Gabriel Zhekova would already be grateful, let alone help out.
If Cindy Clarke could hold Adrian Zhekova back, Gabriel Zhekova would be even more delighted.
He would even look forward to it.
Therefore, he not only wouldn’t try to break up Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke, he would even fully support their relationship.
However, this doesn’t mean he couldn’t make Adrian Zhekova uncomfortable.
He brought Jenny Kirk over today just to make Adrian Zhekova uncomfortable.
Since he wanted to make Adrian Zhekova uncomfortable, Gabriel Zhekova would, of course, have to help Jenny Kirk.
Therefore, Gabriel Zhekova agreed with Jenny Kirk’s words: “Yeah, Jenny just came to take a look.”
“This is purely a coincidence. She was unaware we would be returning to the family mansion today. She came to our house to pay respects, happened to hear about our return, and said she wanted to pay respects to the Old Master and Madam.” Gabriel Zhekova said.
“Old Master, let’s open the door and let us in. It’s not right to be stopped at the door. Others may laugh at us.” Gabriel Zhekova said.
“I don’t care if I lose face.” Gabriel Zhekova said, “If others saw us being blocked and not allowed in, who knows what they might think? If they start spreading bad words, and the further it’s spread the more outrageous it gets, that’s not good.”
“Moreover, this would make our family appear discourteous and narrow-minded.” Gabriel Zhekova said.
In fact, he already felt utterly humiliated in front of Jenny Kirk.
As a member of the Zhekova Family, the Old Master’s own nephew.
And now, he wanted to bring a junior member into the family mansion but wasn’t allowed to.
Even a housekeeper in the mansion could block him at the door and wouldn’t allow him in.
Where was he to put his face?
Once Jenny Kirk went home and mentioned today’s events to her family,
It would have been secondary if Jenny Kirk had been bullied.
Because the culprit was the Zhekova Old Master.
Even if the Kirk Family was unhappy, they wouldn’t dare to say anything to the Old Master and could only swallow their grievances.
But letting people know he had no standing in the Zhekova Family,
To the point that he couldn’t even enter the door on a rare visit.
Chapter 814: Chapter 814: This Acting, Truly Outstanding_1
How was he supposed to continue doing business with his reputation damaged like this?
Once the Kirk Family people start spreading what happened today…
Wouldn’t everyone start thinking that he’s not well-liked at the Zhekova Family? That he doesn’t hold a high position?
Then, who would show him respect or fear him when they do business in the future?
Ever since he started doing business, all his business partners had shown him deep respect.
All thanks to the Zhekova Family.
That’s why his business dealings require minimal effort on his part.
It’s always about people pleasing him and handing over their business right at his doorstep.
But would there still be such conveniences when there’s no longer any respect?
Gabriel Zhekova absolutely did not expect that even after he had said all this, the Old Master wouldn’t give him face at all.
All he heard was the Old Master’s cold snort, and he said: “We’ve accepted Miss Kirk’s good intentions.”
“If it were any other time, we would not be so impolite.” The Old Master spoke first.
Just to cut off those criticisms about his impoliteness.
Jenny Kirk: “…”
What else could she say?
Moreover, she didn’t dare to say they were impolite.
She really didn’t have such guts.
The Old Master said, “Just that today is not the right time. It’s our family’s banquet today, and we usually don’t receive outside guests.”
The Old Master was very upfront and not polite about it.
Anyway, the Old Master thought he could also pick a fight with unreasonable people.
Against someone who wanted to disrupt their family and irritate their emotions, who would be fair to such a person?
Moreover, the Old Master was of such an old age, wasn’t he allowed to speak his mind?
Even if Jenny Kirk accused him of using his age as an excuse later, he wouldn’t care.
He was indeed using his age as an excuse.
He indeed relied on his old age to speak whatever he wanted.
He really depended on the fact that, regardless of what he said, Jenny Kirk wouldn’t dare to retort.
“Even outsiders would know, when we are having our family feast, we do not accept any disturbances.” the Old Master said coldly.
“You, Miss Kirk, didn’t inform us about coming before stepping through the door. You caught us off guard,” said the Old Master bluntly.
“This time, it will be us who are being impolite for not being able to host you properly.” Towards the end, the Old Master switched back to his polite attitude.
Jenny Kirk: “…”
Victoria Wheeler didn’t care.
She was used to being willful.
Also, because her husband was the current Head of the Zhekova Family and her son was the future Head of the Zhekova Family.
When Victoria Wheeler went out, she represented the Zhekova Family better than Gabriel Zhekova did.
Gabriel Zhekova, the nephew of the Old Master, was already treated with such careful respect, with people voluntarily handing business to him.
Not to mention Victoria Wheeler, the wife of the Family Head, and the Mother of the Family Head.
So, Victoria Wheeler, she has never been afraid of anyone!
At this moment, she intentionally raised her voice, “Besides, when you visit someone’s house and see all family members present or other guests, one should politely and sensibly leave.”
“Victoria.” The Old Madam pretended to stop her from the sidelines.
You couldn’t see the inside of the house from the outside.
Was the Old Madam really scolding Victoria?
Have you ever seen someone scold with a smile on their face?
The Old Madam gave Victoria a thumbs up while kindly persuading her with a beaming smile.
Her acting was really commendable.
Moreover, the purpose of the Old Madam loudly calling out “Victoria,” was to let Jenny Kirk know that those words were spoken by Adrian Zhekova’s mother herself.
Chapter 815: Chapter 815: Such a Big Face_1
She was going to let Jenny Kirk know, the attitude of Adrian Zhekova’s parents.
She should stop dreaming that they are dissatisfied with Cindy Clarke, thinking that she still has a chance.
Sure enough, Jenny Kirk who was standing outside the door was not able to discern earlier who was speaking.
But upon hearing Old Madam mentioning “Victoria”, who else would she fail to understand?
That was surely spoken by Adrian Zhekova’s mother.
Unexpectedly, Adrian Zhekova’s mother blatantly stated such words.
Is she really that fond of Cindy Clarke?
“Edward, don’t think I won’t let you in.” the Old Master added, “I can ask Butler Howard to open the door right now, but only you, Qi Hui, and Gu Qing can come in. If one more person comes in, don’t blame me for kicking you all out.”
“Not just anyone can enter my family mansion!” affirmed the Old Master.
“What would become of my mansion, and what would become of the Zhekova Family if we just allowed anybody who wants to come in?” the Old Master’s voice carried an obvious displeasure.
“So, Edward, this is my word,” the Old Master said, “I welcome you to come in. It’s been a year since I last saw Gu Qing, and I miss him.”
“But for others, it’s not allowed.”
“If you like her that much and want to bring her in, then leave with her.” Although the Old Master didn’t use any offensive words, it was already very harsh.
Gabriel Zhekova: “…”
What do they mean, really liking her?
There is no relationship between him and Jenny Kirk!
He didn’t want to ruin his reputation at this age!
Gabriel Zhekova noticed that the elders’ attitude had become quite firm.
Earlier, the Old Madam seemed to be preventing Victoria Wheeler from speaking.
But what she actually meant was obvious to everyone and didn’t require any thought.
Gabriel Zhekova didn’t expect the elders’ attitude to be so firm.
He had initially thought that bringing someone along was not a big deal.
But now it seems, if he brings Jenny Kirk along, he shouldn’t even think about entering the door.
The Old Master didn’t say anything else.
It became incredibly quiet on the walkie-talkie.
Gabriel Zhekova took a deep breath and turned his gaze to Jenny Kirk.
Jenny Kirk also knew that there was no hope today.
Even if she pretended to be clueless, she couldn’t expect to pass through this door.
Jenny Kirk weighed her options in her heart.
Instead of letting Gabriel Zhekova say it, she took the initiative to take a step back.
She could also leave Gabriel Zhekova with a good impression and face.
In the future, if anything happens, it would be easier to discuss.
So, Jenny Kirk’s face turned red, looking as if she was insulted here.
Her voice trembling, she said, “Uncle, I… I didn’t realize it would be so inconvenient for me to come today.”
“I did not consider properly and also did not pay heed to manners. I shouldn’t have come, knowing well that it’s a family feast.” Jenny Kirk said, tears streaming down her face.
She felt wronged.
It was just a trip over.
Even if it was a family feast, what would be the problem with her being an addition?
Would they run out of bowls and chopsticks if she joined?
Was there a problem with having an extra friend at a family feast?
This old master of the Zhekova family was forcing her so fiercely that he didn’t leave her any dignity.
Jenny Kirk clenched her fists tightly, her nails were embedded deeply into her palms, leaving deep purple marks.
Tears fell from her eyes, pitter-patter.
Adrian Zhekova and the others in the living room watched everything clearly on the television screen.
But no one softened their heart because of this.
Then, Jenny Kirk took a deep breath and forced a shaky smile onto her trembling lips, “Rather, I have caused a dispute between the elders.”
Victoria Wheeler rolled her eyes and said in a quiet voice, “She really has a big face.”
Chapter 816: Chapter 816: What dream are you having?_1
Everyone in the living room turned to look, curious as to why Victoria Wheeler would say such a thing.
Then they heard Victoria say, “This young lady thinks she can cause a rift among the Zhekova Family elders all by herself.”
“For her to cause a rift among the elders, they would have to take her seriously. But do we take her seriously?” Victoria asked, rolling her eyes.
Maverick Zhekova watched as his wife’s eyes rolled so far back, they seemed to reach the sky.
He quickly massaged Victoria’s eyelids, worried that if they rolled back too far, her eyes would become uncomfortable.
Victoria continued, “She believes she can turn the Zhekova Family upside down all by herself. Does she think she’s some sort of enchanting beauty that can cause national disasters? Isn’t this the definition of being overly presumptuous?”
Everyone: “…”
Initially, they didn’t think Jenny Kirk was that presumptuous.
But after hearing Victoria’s words, they suddenly realized just how presumptuous Jenny Kirk really was!
Does she think too highly of herself?
She even believed that due to her involvement, the Zhekova family might have a conflict.
What is she dreaming about?
Jenny Kirk: “…”
That wasn’t what she meant at all!
She was just trying to play the sympathy card by pretending to retreat.
How did it become ‘being presumptuous’ when it got to Victoria Wheeler?
Victoria Wheeler…
Just thinking about this name made Jenny’s heart ache.
She was Adrian Zhekova’s mother!
Since she liked Adrian, she had to win not only his favor but also that of his mother.
But now, leaving Adrian aside, his mother Victoria already seemed to dislike her.
This made Jenny Kirk feel that the road ahead would be tough.
She had watched the video that Adrian Zhekova posted on Facebook before.
Not only Cindy Clarke posted that video, but Adrian did too.
Not to mention that so many people were sharing it.
It was at the top of the hot topic list, how could she possibly have missed it?
Of course, she also noticed the support the elders in the Zhekova family showed Cindy in the video.
However, this contradicted what Gabriel Zhekova mentioned today.
Jenny Kirk only returned to China before the Spring Festival.
She wanted to take advantage of the festival period, hoping to reconnect with Adrian Zhekova.
She had been overseas for a long time and naturally didn’t know that Adrian was married.
Moreover, Adrian did not announce it widely at that time.
He just appeared at various events with Cindy without hiding it.
Only the folks inside their circle knew about it.
When Jenny Kirk came back, she couldn’t immediately rush to find Adrian.
So when she found out, it was on the third day of the New Year when she saw the video posted by Adrian and Cindy.
She saw all of Adrian’s friends sharing it.
Including Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler, they specially logged onto their official Facebook account to share it, showing their support.
Even the Old Master and Old Madam shared it as well.
The elderly couple may be old, but they always keep up with the trends and never let themselves fall out of touch with the modern era.
They are competent with all the social networks that young people commonly use online.
Including Facebook and Whatsapp.
Of course, there are fewer users on QQ now, but they used to use it a lot.
They often browse short videos on TicToc.
Old Madam would watch various videos uploaded by original creators on CouTube.
They are familiar with the mainstream platforms that young people play with online.
Therefore, they all logged into Facebook to share the post in no time, expressing their full support with words.
At that time, when Jenny Kirk saw these posts, it felt like she was dreaming, lacking any sense of reality.
How could Adrian… have gotten married so quietly?
Because she had returned to China before the festival, her university classmates had organised a reunion to welcome her.
During the dinner, Adrian Zhekova’s name was brought up.
They were questioning her about whether she had kept in touch with Adrian over the years
They hadn’t been following the events of the Cooking Competition.
After all, the Cooking Competition are within its niche, and did not make it into mainstream news.
It’s like how celebrities might be well-known, but their fan group activities are mostly just circulated within the fan groups.
Often, what seems like big news within these groups goes unnoticed by outsiders.
These classmates did not usually care about cooking events either.
So naturally, they didn’t know about the Cooking Competition.
Even less so about Zoe Silverstone, Iris Doone and the others creating a fuss.
They hadn’t even heard about the rumors between Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke.
What they remembered was that during university, Jenny Kirk seemed to be the only person who could hold a conversation with Adrian.
Of course, to be able to “hold a conversation” meant having the courage to greet Adrian Zhekova directly.
No one else even had that courage.
Moreover, they all remembered Jenny vaguely implying at the time that her family had business dealings with the Zhekova Family.
So she had privately met Adrian and even chatted with him.
Although they weren’t very close, she had marked her presence around Adrian.
Jenny Kirk even played a cunning game back then.
After all, she had only implied it, not stated it outright.
How it was interpreted was based on the classmates’ own understanding.
If the classmates thought she was close to Adrian, that was their understanding.
She had never explicitly stated it.
If Adrian were to investigate this matter, she had the right to deny it.
Besides, she thought that Adrian wouldn’t waste his time investigating such a thing.
As Jenny Kirk speculated, Adrian didn’t investigate.
Because no one dared to gossip around Adrian or ask him if he was really close to Jenny.
However, after all these years, when these classmates questioned her again, their intentions weren’t entirely good.
After all, they’d also witnessed the moments when Adrian had ignored Jenny.
Therefore, while they wouldn’t say it publicly,
behind Jenny’s back, there was a lot of gossip about whether she was just boasting.
Maybe her relationship with Adrian wasn’t as good as she claimed it was.
Otherwise, why wouldn’t he even acknowledge her?
Later, Jenny Kirk went overseas.
After Adrian graduated, he naturally had no further contact with these junior classmates.
They weren’t close when they were in school, let alone after graduation.
Thus, they had no idea of Adrian’s current circumstance.
That’s why they would ask Jenny Kirk about Adrian at the reunion.
On one hand, they were curious about Adrian.
They had nothing better to do, might as well gossip!
On the other, they also wanted to see Jenny embarrass herself.
Didn’t she say she knew Adrian?
If she really knew him, had a real relationship with him, how could she not know about his ongoing affairs?
At that time, Jenny Kirk had no choice but to put on a brave face and make up some news.
For instance, she was studying overseas and didn’t come home every year.
Unlike regular international students who took every opportunity to go home during holidays,
whenever she had holidays, she would go out and travel the world with classmates.
She did not come home very often and hence didn’t come into contact with Adrian a lot.
However, she knew more about Adrian than her classmates did.
But how could Jenny Kirk not detect the mockery in her classmates’ words?
Chapter 817: Chapter 817: Dismounting Power_1
So, in a fit of impulse, she said that during the Spring Festival holiday, she planned to pay a New Year’s call to the elders of the Zhekova Family.
When she sees Adrian Zhekova, she must tell them about his recent circumstances.
Her classmates heard this and instantly chimed in enthusiastically, “You’re going to pay a New Year’s call at the Zhekova Family Mansion?”
Jenny Kirk: “…”
Just then, Jenny Kirk almost turned livid.
She would pay a New Year’s visit to Adrian Zhekova’s parents’ house, but they might not even acknowledge her.
And yet to the Zhekova Family Mansion?
What was she dreaming of?
However, Jenny Kirk was too ashamed to admit it.
After all, she had blown her own trumpet.
And she had done so for many years.
Once a lie is told, multiple other lies must follow to cover it up.
Now that she had been put on the spot, she had no choice but to bite the bullet and admit it.
She wasn’t able to approach Adrian Zhekova’s parents.
Though, she did have a good relationship with Gabriel Zhekova.
Plus, she heard that the fifth day of the month is the fixed date for their annual family feast.
So, she chose this time to pay a New Year’s call to Gabriel Zhekova early.
And took the opportunity to propose going with them for the New Year’s visit.
Because their families had business collaborations.
So, Gabriel Zhekova did not refuse.
Thinking that paying a New Year’s visit was not a big deal, there was no need to refuse over such a small matter.
So, he brought Jenny Kirk along.
Jenny Kirk bit her lip, hurriedly shook her head denying Victoria Wheeler’s assertion, “I didn’t think that way!”
Jenny Kirk took a deep breath and said, “It wasn’t… It wasn’t because of me that the elders had unpleasantness among them. It was because of me, the elders were in a bad mood.”
It was simply that the elders of the Zhekova family did not like seeing her.
If she said it this way, the meaning would be different.
Only then did Victoria Wheeler reluctantly say, “At least you’ve understood now, it’s not too late.”
Jenny Kirk: “…”
There was nothing more fatal than getting stabbed by Adrian Zhekova’s mother herself.
Then Jenny Kirk said to Gabriel Zhekova, “Uncle, I’m sorry, I caused you so much trouble today.”
“I didn’t know that coming to pay my respects with you would cause such a fuss.”
“I just innocently said that I was coming to pay my respects with you. If I had known earlier, I wouldn’t have said that, I wouldn’t make you uncomfortable, and make the elders think that I don’t know the rules.”
Jenny Kirk still wanted to explain herself.
She felt that she still could try her best.
“I’m not someone who doesn’t know the rules.”
Moreover, it’s quite polite to pay a casual visit for New Year’s greetings for ordinary families, isn’t it?
But now, as the elders of the Zhekova family have just said so, she cannot voice her thoughts.
Otherwise, it would seem as if she was blaming the Zhekova family.
“Grandfather was right. I did not let you know in advance. Moreover, today is the family feast, so I shouldn’t… I shouldn’t have chosen such an unfortunate time to visit.”
The Old Master was angry to death.
Who’s your grandfather!
Yet he couldn’t be so petty as to voice it out loud.
He was old and could speak his mind directly.
But equally, he also needed to be broad-minded.
He should not make a fuss over a small matter.
Doing so would be embarrassing.
Yet, everything was so frustrating.
The Old Master rolled his eyes.
“I will find another time to visit. I will definitely contact you beforehand,” Jenny Kirk said, “However, that cannot be considered a New Year’s visit, but a visit to apologize specifically.”
“That won’t be necessary,” the Old Master responded promptly. “We understand your intention to pay respects. We acknowledge your apology as well.”
“Young lady, there’s no need for you to come here again,” the Old Master said.
“We’re old and prefer quiet,” the Old Madam slowly said.
“The address of our family mansion has never been a secret. But no one disturbs us because they know we don’t like being disturbed.”
“Ordinarily, we just keep in touch with a few familiar old friends. Others, if we don’t know them, we don’t meet them.”
“Young lady, please consider our wishes. We’ve lived a lifetime. In our youth, we had to consider many things, concessions had to be made for many people, and we had to hand it over to our whims. We had to keep a smile on our faces even when facing people we didn’t know, or even liked.”
“In the face of unfamiliar strangers, if someone visits, we must receive them well, and have a heart-to-heart conversation with them to avoid being impolite.”
“We’ve been learning to do this since we had a sense of understanding and had to keep forcing ourselves to do it.”
“It’s not easy now that we’re old and can be arbitrary because of our age. We want to live according to our preferences and don’t want to force ourselves like we did when we were young.”
“We may live according to our preferences, but we don’t harm others or break the law,” the Old Madam continued.
“Now, we just want to live comfortably, having our quiet days. We don’t want to receive strange people, after all, we don’t know each other, so what’s there to talk about?”
“We don’t want to get to know people we don’t want to know, we don’t want to be disturbed.”
“Young lady, we’re old and we only have these few demands,” said the Old Madam, “please don’t force us for your own happiness.”
The Old Madam said a lot, but her intention was singular.
We don’t want to see you.
Don’t come here.
But the Old Madam made it sound pitiful.
Having said all this, if Jenny Kirk still wanted to visit, even in the guise of an apology, it would be coercion.
Now, Jenny Kirk felt extremely stifled inside.
How is it that even coming to apologise became her fault?
This Old Madam was too cunning!
Having said all this, how was she supposed to visit them again?
Even if not for the sake of apologising, this Old Madam’s words blocked all her possible justifications for visiting.
Jenny Kirk took a deep breath and said, “I understand.”
“Then… I won’t disturb you anymore.” stated Jenny Kirk.
“I’m sorry for causing trouble for the elders today,” Jenny Kirk said with regret, shooting an apologetic glance at Gabriel Zhekova.
And then she left.
Gabriel Zhekova’s expression was rigid.
Today, no matter what, Jenny Kirk had been driven away before his own eyes.
He could not escape this.
Now Gabriel Zhekova felt that he had lost all his dignity today!
Initially, he wanted to teach Cindy Clarke a lesson.
But now, Cindy Clarke had already seen his embarrassing situation.
Where would he find the means to teach her a lesson!
“Now that the person is gone, can you open the door for us?”, Gabriel Zhekova said stiffly.
Only then did the Old Master say, “Open the door.”
Butler Howard then opened the door for them.
Victoria Wheeler then said to Cindy Clarke, “Did you see? From now on, when you go out, as long as it’s someone you don’t like, you don’t have to be polite, no matter what the reason.”
Chapter 818: Chapter 818: Just Like Pretending_1
“No matter what they do that bothers you. Whether it’s their words or their looks that annoy you, feel free to push back. Don’t be scared of them!” said Victoria Wheeler.
Victoria had no fear of Cindy Clarke causing trouble when she’s out.
Was Cindy the kind of person who stirs up trouble?
Cindy usually doesn’t pick fights with people.
Unless they proactively cause trouble for her.
Besides, it doesn’t seem Cindy has realized that she now has the means to stand up for herself.
Keep in mind that Cindy is no longer alone now.
She’s not a helpless little child anymore.
No matter how big the trouble is, the Zhekova Family can handle it.
Victoria felt it was important to make Cindy understand how much she’s changed.
And to get used to it.
“Look, just like that ‘poseur,’” said Victoria.
“Poseur?” Samson Zhekova didn’t understand and asked directly.
Anyway, he’s used to Victoria occasionally saying things that others can’t comprehend.
So, he had also developed this habit. If Victoria says something that he doesn’t quite get…
Then he shouldn’t bother puzzling over it.
Shouldn’t try to figure out how Victoria’s mind works.
It’s a maze normal people can’t fathom.
So, there’s no point in tormenting himself over frivolous matters.
Just asking Victoria directly will give him the answers.
So, Samson Zhekova just asked directly.
“It’s that Jenny something,” Victoria waved offhand, “I forgot her name, but she’s pretending to be better than she is, so phony.”
So, she just called her a ‘poseur’.
Samson Zhekova gave a thumbs up to Victoria: “Aunt, the name you gave her is spot on!”
“Of course.” Jenny Kirk laughed proudly.
Samson Zhekova is a good kid with a keen eye.
Way better than Ethan Zhekova.
Victoria continued, “You see, when we talk about her, she can only indirectly rebut our words. But when we completely shut her down, she clearly feels very aggrieved.”
“If it was someone else, she would have immediately started playing the blame game. But now, she doesn’t dare shift the blame onto us. Even if she feels wronged, she has to swallow it.”
“Why is it so? Isn’t it because she fears us?” Victoria Wheeler brashly told Cindy Clarke, “Let me tell you, people outside are afraid of us. So when you’re out there, don’t let yourself suffer.”
“You don’t have to consider them, worrying whether they would feel sad or worrying about their pride,” Victoria said, “In the end, all that matters is your happiness. If someone makes you unhappy, you make them suffer. Base your happiness on their suffering.”
“You’re a part of the Zhekova Family now, you really do need this freedom. Without it, where’s the fun? Then what’s the use of joining the Zhekova Family?”
Victoria Wheeler pursed her lips, “If we can’t even give you this kind of confidence, then we Zhekova Family will really be a disgrace.”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
She secretly glanced at Adrian Zhekova.
Mom’s words were too blunt.
The Old Madam then nodded in agreement, “Cindy, your mother is right, listen to her.”
“Be more arrogant outside in the future. If anyone makes you uncomfortable, just call them out on it! After all, even if you confront them, they can’t say anything about you,” said the Old Madam.
“If someone acts like a wronged little flower, let them act. You’re the wife of the Zhekova Family, what’s wrong with bullying people?”
“After all, your mother and Adrian never refrained from bullying people when they were out,” said the Old Madam.
“…” The Old Master made a face, “You’re acting as if you didn’t bully people when you were outside. You’ve just aged and don’t get out much anymore. When you were young, you were very fierce and often bullied people.”
“Don’t talk about me, you’re the same,” huffed the Old Madam.
Cindy didn’t know if the old couple was saying all of this just to comfort her, to make her believe or if it was really true.
But she remembered their words.
Cindy smiled and said, “Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, Dad, don’t worry.”
“I won’t deliberately cause trouble or bully people, but if someone else bullies me, I won’t tarnish the Zhekova Family’s honor.” Just like what Adrian Zhekova said to Morgan one time, as a family member, Morgan can’t be bullied outside.
If anyone dares to bully him, there’s no need to be polite.
With Adrian Zhekova around, he won’t let people bully him.
But similarly, if others don’t provoke him, he shouldn’t bully others for no reason outside. That would also tarnish the Zhekova Family’s honor.
The Old Madam held Cindy’s hand, patted it twice and said with a smile, “You’re too cautious.”
“Honestly, even if you did bully someone outside, it’s alright. Besides, I trust you. Anyone you would bully is definitely not a good person.”
Cindy couldn’t help but laugh.
She really appreciated the Old Madam’s trust in her.
But what if she got spoiled and started bullying good people, what then?
“You won’t get spoiled,” Adrian Zhekova whispered in her ear.
Such a good girl like Cindy, how could she possibly get spoiled?
No matter how much they pamper her, she won’t lose herself.
Since she was a little girl, Cindy had never been pampered.
Now, from the Old Madam to Adrian Zhekova, they all feel that they can’t pamper Cindy enough.
The Old Madam then continued, “Do you think Gabriel Zhekova is a good person outside? He’s frequently bullied people under the Zhekova flag outside.”
“It’s just that we’ve been watching him, so he doesn’t dare to go overboard. If we weren’t watching him, who knows what he would do.”
Then Aria Evans chimed in.
Aria Evans let out a scornful huff, “When he’s showing off outside, he’s stingy to mention the Zhekova Family flag and understand that my elder brother is the Family Head. But when he’s at home, he becomes defiant. Isn’t this the typical case of being a bully at home?”
Everyone: “…”
True, Aria Evans had a point.
Gabriel Zhekova truly is a typical home-bully.
While they were talking, finally Gabriel Zhekova and his family walked into the Main Hall.
Hearing the sound of the door, everyone stopped their conversation about Gabriel Zhekova.
Because they had just watched Gabriel Zhekova’s family on the monitor, so there weren’t any feelings of unfamiliarity when seeing them now.
When they hadn’t seen them before, there was some nervousness. However, after listening to what Aria Evans said about Gabriel Zhekova and watching them through the cameras for quite some time, Cindy found her nervousness had unknowingly dissipated.
Seeing Gabriel Zhekova again, Cindy felt calm without any specific thoughts.
From Aria Evans’ words, she already had an idea of Gabriel Zhekova’s worth.
As long as he doesn’t give up the struggle for the position of Family Head, he won’t truly be liked by the Old Madam and the Old Master and won’t be truly welcomed.
Chapter 819: Chapter 819: Driven Away by His Anger _1
Therefore, whether Gabriel Zhekova likes her or not is no longer important, Cindy Clarke didn’t need to care.
Moreover, why should Cindy care for the respect of a man who was always eyeing the position of Family Head, Maverick Zhekova.
Not being enemies is already considering both’s familial relationships.
“Uncle Adrian, Aunt Cindy.” As soon as they walked in, Gabriel Zhekova greeted.
Mila Harrison followed and greeted the same way.
Ethan Zhekova on the side called out: “Grandfather Adrian, Grandmother Cindy, Uncle, Aunt, third uncle, third aunt.”
Ethan Zhekova called out each one of them.
Mila Harrison then looked at Cindy Clarke with a smile: “So this is Morgan’s wife, my great niece-in-law, right?”
Having heard what Aria Evans had previously said, Cindy hadn’t expected Mila Harrison to have such a smiling demeanor.
She seemed quite easy to get along with.
But not knowing much about her, it’s not good to judge immediately.
“Aunt Evans.” Cindy greeted.
Mila Harrison responded with a smiling nod, then seeing Morgan, she asked: “Is this your child with Morgan?”
The little boy walked over and obediently called out, “Grandmother.”
“What a good child, so handsome.” Mila Harrison praised.
Anyone who complimented the little one for being handsome, the little boy felt they had good judgment, and would unashamedly accept the praises.
There were really very few people who didn’t like the little boy when they met him.
Mila Harrison looked at Adrian Zhekova and then at the little boy, saying, “Just by looking it’s clear they are father and son. They look so much alike, as if they were made from the same mold.”
The little boy curiously looked at Adrian Zhekova, the elders all said so, but he didn’t feel he looked so much like Adrian Zhekova.
Mila Harrison smiled and said, “Your father has grown up now, he’s an adult, and his facial features have fully developed, so it doesn’t look much like you. But when he was little, he looked just like you.”
“If you don’t believe me, just get out your dad’s childhood photos and you’ll see.”
The little guy immediately looked at Cindy and said, “Cindy, we haven’t seen dad’s photos yet.”
Cindy also realized this.
Indeed, she had been with Adrian Zhekova for such a long time, but she hadn’t even seen his childhood photos.
Not to mention Cindy, even the Old Madam hadn’t thought of this.
Let’s not even talk about Victoria Wheeler.
Victoria Wheeler spends her days trying to compete for favor with the little boy, she wouldn’t focus on her son.
Just as well it was brought up now. Looking at a photo isn’t a big deal, the Old Madam immediately got up and said, “Wait for me. I’ll go get the photos, I didn’t think about it before.”
Upon hearing this, Aunt Evans said to the Old Madam, “Old Madam, I’ll go with you.”
The Old Madam was getting old and her strength was not reliable, especially when she suddenly bent down or climbed, it could be dangerous.
Aunt Evans quickly followed the Old Madam.
Aunt Evans and the Old Madam went to the study together. Photos of the children in the family from when they were young are all kept there.
Aside from one photo of each person displayed, the rest of the photos are stored together.
There was a dedicated cabinet in the study for these photos, organized by Aunt Evans and Butler Howard.
When Aunt Evans opened the wardrobe, she saw neatly stacked paper boxes inside.
There were labels on the boxes, acting as markers.
It clearly indicated whose photos were inside.
One of the boxes had Adrian Zhekova’s name on it.
Aunt Evans took that box down.
Although all the photos were printed on photo paper, a thick stack of them filled an entire large box, which was quite heavy.
Just as Aunt Evans was about to move it, Butler Howard came in.
Seeing him, Aunt Evans hurriedly waved him over: “Just in time, come and help me move this down.”
Then Butler Howard came over and said to the Old Madam: “Old Madam, you go back to the living room first. Aunt Evans and I will bring the box.”
“Okay.” The Old Madam nodded and went back to the living room first.
Aunt Evans and Butler Howard then moved the box down together.
“Give it to me.” Butler Howard said to Aunt Evans.
Butler Howard was strong and managed to carry the box by himself.
Once Aunt Evans let go, she and Butler Howard brought the box back to the living room together.
The Old Madam then called Victoria Wheeler: “Come and help me, let’s look for Adrian’s childhood photos. Find the ones when he was about four or five years old, around the same age as Morgan.”
Victoria Wheeler and Maverick Zhekova were also assigned tasks.
Even Adrian Zhekova and Cindy were each given a stack of albums to look through.
Actually, it was quite simple, all they had to do was open it and see the age in the photo, they could identity it in a few seconds, at the speed of flipping through an album.
But Cindy looked slowly.
Because the photos of Adrian Zhekova’s childhood were all unfamiliar to her.
So, while looking, Cindy also took the opportunity to look at pictures of Adrian Zhekova at different ages.
Unexpectedly, in the first album she found photos of Adrian Zhekova from college, and she didn’t want to let go of them.
She whispered to Adrian Zhekova, “Actually, I’ve always regretted not knowing you earlier, and not being able to see your youthful appearance.”
Cindy’s fingertips gently swept across the photo.
Gently touching the face of Adrian Zhekova in the photo.
“Although you were already a young man in college, I wanted to see you at that time,” Cindy said.
“I wanted to see your youthful naivety during your college days,” Cindy smiled.
Most of these photos were of Adrian Zhekova and Zane Hamilton and others taken together.
There were photos of the eight of them together.
And also individually paired photos.
During their college days, there were backdrops of the basketball court, the football field, and images of them skiing on the snow-capped mountain.
The young people, high-spirited.
The collagen on their faces was still full.
Due to their youth, even if they were thin, their face shape didn’t seem as thin as now, and wasn’t as serious and resolute as now.
Back then, Adrian Zhekova was filled with sunshine.
Standing with his friends, he could flash a big white-toothed smile even when he laughed.
“That’s so good.” Cindy spoke with both envy and regret, “I wish I had met you then.”
“Don’t even mention it, he had such a bad temper then.” The Old Madam said, “If you had met him earlier, wouldn’t he have made you mad to death?”
“By then, you would have already been annoyed by him,” the Old Madam thought, thank goodness Cindy and Adrian Zhekova hadn’t met so early.
Otherwise, if Cindy was annoyed away by Adrian Zhekova, where will Adrian Zhekova find another wife?
Cindy: “…”
“Even if we had met back then, I wouldn’t be able to talk to Adrian. We didn’t know each other, and we were people from two different worlds, there was no chance of recognition.” Cindy said.
“I just thought that if I had seen him earlier, it would have been enough to just watch him from a distance,” Cindy murmured.
“I didn’t want to know him, I just wanted to see him with my own eyes, to see his then lively look.”
Chapter 820: Chapter 820: Little Bun_1
Cindy Clarke just wanted to see the real him from that time, not just in a photo.
All she yearned for was a glimpse of him from every stage of his life, not asking to have known him.
Adrian Zhekova held Cindy’s left hand that was currently gripping the edge of the photo album.
Their fingers slipped through the gaps of each other’s, one by one.
They tentatively intertwined, until at last they were crisscrossing each other tightly, binding them together.
Still holding Cindy’s hand, Adrian Zhekova placed her hand on the photo album spread out on his lap.
With his left hand, he gently traced the back of her hand instead of leafing through the album.
She didn’t demand to know him, she just wanted to see him as he used to be.
She yearned to observe the side of him she’d never seen before.
Her curiosity and regrets filled every moment they’d never spent together.
This regret was due to the deep love and attachment she felt for him.
Cindy thought to herself, if she could travel back in time she would definitely watch Adrian Zhekova grow up.
However, there was an age gap between them.
Even if she could travel back to when she was a baby, she could only witness Adrian Zhekova at the age of five.
Well, five years old was also good enough.
He would be the same age as her little one, both essentially chunks of adorable baby fat.
The Old Madam didn’t rush them to find the photographs.
After all, it wasn’t a matter of urgency.
Seeing how well Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke got along, nothing made the Old Madam happier than this.
The photo album in Adrian Zhekova’s possession was taken when he was in junior high school.
Cindy Clarke hadn’t intended to look at Adrian Zhekova’s album.
Yet her hand was held tightly by Adrian Zhekova and placed on the photo album on his lap.
As such, when Cindy’s gaze fell upon their intertwined hands, it naturally lingered on the photo album resting on Adrian Zhekova’s lap.
As she looked down, she spotted photos of Adrian Zhekova, who appeared considerably younger in the album on his lap.
He looked more innocent, still immature, half-grown, just a young adolescent.
Immediately, Cindy took an interest and set her own album aside.
She then asked Adrian Zhekova, “When were these photos taken?”
Adrian Zhekova took a perfunctory glance at the very familiar photos and said, “During junior high school.”
Cindy Clarke looked and saw the photos included Zane Hamilton and their group.
There were group photos and several smaller clusters of them.
Regardless, those same individuals kept appearing throughout the album.
Cindy commented, “You and Zane Hamilton have a truly deep relationship.”
Adrian Zhekova nodded, “After all, we’ve been together since we were kids. Although we weren’t born in the same year, we’re so close we could have been in the same diaper. It will be the same for Morgan and Derek Smith.”
This response made Cindy laugh.
If her little one could have so many such good friends and could build relationships as deep as Adrian Zhekova and Zane Hamilton, Cindy would be truly happy.
“Oh, I found it!” Aunt Evans exclaimed with glee, everyone’s attention immediately moving to her.
“It’s here,” Aunt Evans passed the photo album she held directly to Cindy.
Cindy took it, and opened it to the first page. The first picture was a large family photo.
The elders were seated in the middle, with Adrian Zhekova occupying both their laps—each leg on a different lap.
Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler flanked the elder couple.
In the photo, Adrian Zhekova looked small and adorable, just like a bun, seeming to be around four or five years old.
The Old Madam came over to take a look and laughed as she said, “I remember that this was taken on Adrian’s fourth birthday. We all went together to take a family portrait.”
As it was a paper photograph and couldn’t be enlarged, and since it was a family photo with many people, each individual appeared rather small.
Back then, Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler were still young.
The young Maverick Zhekova looked somewhat like Adrian Zhekova does now.
Victoria Wheeler appeared somewhat younger, her beauty not at all inferior to a star’s.
Back then, the Old Master still had his hair dyed black, not greying like he does now.
In contrast, the Old Madam had consistently dyed her hair since then, and never allowed her grey to show.
Beholding their elders, who appeared 20 years younger, seemed surreal.
Cindy felt a bit overwhelmed, looking at the photo that depicted the much younger elders, Maverick Zhekova, and Victoria Wheeler, then comparing them with the four people now in the room.
Cindy thought to herself, how wonderful it would have been if she’d met them sooner.
If only her elders could be a little younger.
That way, she could spend more time with them.
As the elders were aging, she didn’t know how many more years they had left together.
For adorable and kind elders like them, Cindy couldn’t bear to part with them.
In her life, the Old Madam was the very first to offer Cindy a taste of a familial bond.
Cindy felt a pang of melancholy, taking deep breaths to manage her emotions before she turned the next page of the album.
The photos in the back were all Adrian Zhekova’s.
As was the case with other albums, most were group photos with Zane Hamilton and their gang, others with Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler, and still others with the elders.
Some were photographs of them taken in small groups.
Seeing these photos, Cindy not only got to see Adrian Zhekova’s childhood, but also caught a glimpse of Zane Hamilton and the others when they were children.
Comparing the adorable buns in the photos with the mature individuals they’d become today, the former seemed an endearing sight.
Cindy also found a close-up of Adrian Zhekova among the photos.
At four years old, Adrian Zhekova’s face was round, his cheeks chubby.
The corners of his mouth were adorned with a milk mustache, puffing out slightly.
Even through the photo, one could almost smell the milky scent.
The resolution of the old camera wasn’t as high as today’s, and combined with the age of the photos, which were quite old and had slightly yellowed, the image was somewhat blurry.
Yet it was still evident that Adrian Zhekova’s babyface had been fair and soft.
Her little one came running over, and since he was standing beside Cindy, looking over at her, his face was directly in her line of sight.
She looked again at the photo of Adrian Zhekova and then at her little one’s face.
Indeed, as Mila Harrison had said, their resemblance was uncanny.
Her little one, cupping his cheek, his head bobbing, asked, “Do we really look that alike?”
Hearing this, Cindy looked again at her little one and then at the photo, nodding heavily: “Yes, you really do look alike.”
“Here, let me take a picture of you,” Cindy said, “You’ll see for yourself once we compare the two photos.”
After all, her little one couldn’t currently look in a mirror.
Cindy took a close-up photo of her little one’s face.
After she had taken the shot, she pulled up the photo and compared it with Adrian Zhekova’s photo.
“Do you see the resemblance?” she asked.
The photo was quite old, spanning more than 20 years.
Everything from the resolution to the colour had changed.
If a picture of Adrian Zhekova as a child taken with current technology was compared with her little one, it would be hard for even her little one to tell which was his own photo.
“They really do look alike!” her little one exclaimed with surprise.
He’d heard people mention the resemblance, but without a direct comparison, he hadn’t given it much thought.