Ch. 841..850
Chapter 841: Not Losing to Cindy Clarke_1
Wendy Clarke hadn’t expected, this was really quite a coincidence.
Today was the first time Ethan Zhekova met Cindy Clarke and by night, he knew her too.
Really, you could not deny, that it was quite a coincidence.
As Wendy Clarke was contemplating, Ethan Zhekova spoke again, “However, regarding Cindy Clarke …”
Wendy Clarke looked up at him.
By then, Ethan Zhekova was standing very close to her, closer than she realized.
...
The two of them were close enough to sense each other’s breath.
Ethan Zhekova sneered slightly, saying, “I truly don’t like her much.”
Ethan Zhekova glanced at Wendy Clarke and said, “She’s so pretentious. She is not like us at all.”
Wendy Clarke’s heart fluttered as she thought that this was indeed as she had anticipated before.
The Zhekova Family probably didn’t value Cindy Clarke.
Seeing Lyke Zhekova’s parents and the elders in the Zhekova family being so protective of Cindy Clarke, Wendy Clarke mistakenly believed that the Zhekova family was such an exception.
Now, looking at Ethan Zhekova’s attitude, it seems that it’s only Lyke Zhekova’s parents that stand apart from the majority in the Zhekova family when it came to Cindy Clarke.
Most of the Zhekova family treated Cindy Clarke the same as she imagined they would.
This seemed to be more normal.
Wendy Clarke felt relieved as she realized she had not misjudged the situation.
Because the fact proved, she was right after all.
“But, I didn’t expect you to be Cindy Clarke’s sister,” Ethan Zhekova chuckled, also raising his glass.
Wendy Clarke’s gaze faltered slightly and she said, “Now you know. So, do you want to distance yourself to avoid suspicion?”
Ethan Zhekova chuckled and said, “Why should I avoid suspicion? Cindy Clarke is Cindy Clarke, you are you. I have no connection with her, at most we can be considered as in-laws. I don’t know her well, and I don’t like her either.”
“It’s hard to meet someone I like. It would be nonsense to distance myself from you because of her,” Ethan Zhekova said.
Wendy Clarke’s heart pounded at Ethan Zhekova’s words. Her breaths grew heavier.
Difficult to find someone that he likes?
So, could the person Ethan Zhekova speaks of be…her?
Wendy Clarke thought it could be.
But she also felt that she still needed Ethan Zhekova’s affirmative response.
Even so, her heart was already elated, unable to suppress her excitement.
Ethan Zhekova likes her!
They just met for the first time.
Ethan Zhekova already likes her.
It seems he had been smitten at first sight.
Could this actually be love at first sight?
Wendy Clarke didn’t find it unexpected that Ethan Zhekova fell in love with her at first sight.
This was absolutely normal.
She was beautiful and her temperament had incrementally improved over the years.
If Ethan Zhekova fell in love with her at first sight, it wouldn’t be incomprehensible to her.
Besides, even Cindy Clarke could make Lyke Zhekova fall in love at first sight.
Why couldn’t she do the same to Ethan Zhekova?
Though Cindy Clarke had never explicitly told her, Wendy Clarke believed Lyke Zhekova was smitten with Cindy at first sight.
She believed that if it were a relationship born out of familiarity, there would be no way Lyke Zhekova would ever grow to like Cindy Clarke, solely based on her character.
The only commendable feature Cindy Clarke had was her face.
The reason Lyke Zhekova could possibly like Cindy Clarke was perhaps because he first found her face attractive.
Otherwise, could Cindy Clarke have attracted Lyke Zhekova with her personal charm?
Wendy Clarke then raised the glass in her hand to Ethan Zhekova. “In that case, let’s have nothing to do with them.”
Ethan Zhekova clinked his glass against hers saying, “Naturally.”
A shy smile appeared on Wendy Clarke’s face.
The corners of her eyes subtly expressed excitement.
Finally, she felt that her luck was turning for the better.
Being with Ethan Zhekova, she didn’t feel dominated by Cindy Clarke at all!
***
Cindy Clarke and Adrian Zhekova had no idea, that just within such a short period of time, Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke had mingled together.
Although Adrian Zhekova had sent someone to keep an eye on Ethan Zhekova, the feedback wasn’t so quick.
Adrian Zhekova’s man still needs to continue his watch, even if there was feedback, it would be tomorrow.
Right now, Ethan Zhekova was only flirting with Wendy Clarke, there was no sign of any subsequent movements.
It wasn’t a situation threatening Morgan Zhekova or Cindy Clarke.
Adrian Zhekova’s guys naturally did not need to hastily report.
They can’t report every little thing as soon as it happens.
Just secretly recording the scene of Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke together.
And then send it directly to Adrian Zhekova tomorrow for him to see.
By then, Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke were at home.
The little one also followed them home.
Adrian Zhekova really wanted to leave the little one at the family mansion.
But tomorrow he needs to take Cindy Clarke to Lyke Zhekova’s place. If they left the little one at the mansion, they would have to go out of their way to the mansion tomorrow, wasting more time.
So they decided to bring the little one back home.
If the kid knew that the reason Adrian Zhekova was willing to bring him back home was this, he would try to discredit Adrian Zhekova in front of Cindy Clarke.
But for now, the kid didn’t know.
It took Adrian Zhekova a lot of effort to put the little one to bed.
Finally, they had some alone time to be with Cindy Clarke.
Adrian Zhekova expressed his tiredness with a quiet sigh.
He and Cindy Clarke had skipped the courtship phase and were already raising a kid together.
They couldn’t even enjoy the most intimate parts of a relationship.
This was quite disheartening.
At that moment, they were on the bed, cuddling and watching a movie projected using a projector.
The movie they were watching was a love story.
Foreign romance films have a larger scale, especially ones like this with some artistic elements.
As the protagonists embraced each other, the tensions escalated.
With the close-up shot, the female protagonist gently moved her hand from the male lead’s chest to his abs.
The male lead had an impressive physique.
His abs were well defined, but his waist was slim; it was certainly an appealing sight.
The female lead’s fingers slowly traced the lines of his abs.
Drops of sweat glistened on his abs.
Cindy Clarke couldn’t help but swallow.
Although she did not covet the male lead’s physique or looks,
She appreciates the charm of local men compared to foreigners.
Of course, it’s not that she can’t appreciate the allure of Western men.
It’s just that she appreciates and prefers the local charm.
Take Adrian Zhekova for instance.
In Cindy Clarke’s opinion, whether it concerns looks or physique, Adrian Zhekova surpasses the male protagonist in the movie.
Though the male protagonist was a heartthrob and had numerous fans worldwide,
She still prefers Adrian Zhekova.
Thinking of this, Cindy Clarke couldn’t help but turn to look.
She happened to catch a glimpse of Adrian Zhekova’s side profile.
Adrian Zhekova’s features were quite pronounced among Asians but also softer than Westerners.
His eyebrows were thick and gave the impression of sternness, typical of male actors on screen.
The distance between his eyebrows and eyes was shorter than most people’s, making his eyes seem more profound.
As a man, he had long and curly eyelashes, especially dense.
At the moment, relaxing while watching the movie, Adrian Zhekova’s eyebrows and eyes have softened considerably compared to when he is at the company.
Chapter 842: Chapter 842: Don’t Have The Energy to Compete_1
His features soft and serene, his nose tall and straight, his thin lips at ease.
In the flickering light of the movie, his features seem all the more pronounced.
In this slightly dimmed light, he seems all the more beguiling.
Cindy Clarke’s gaze drifted uncontrollably to Adrian Zhekova’s waist again.
His clothes concealed it. Through the fabric, nothing could be discerned.
But Cindy knew just how striking the contours of Adrian’s waist were under his clothes.
...
My, that man’s waist was a sight to behold.
A hound’s waist; it was practically made for him.
One glance and you knew he was an exceptional specimen.
Thinking of this, Cindy’s face grew hot, and a flush heated her mouth.
She was thinking, she’s quite the experienced driver now.
The things she allowed to occupy her mind were getting a bit too explicit.
If it were before, she wouldn’t even think about it, let alone when she was single.
Even early on when she first started seeing Adrian.
She would’ve been too embarrassed to gaze at Adrian’s waist, let alone to entertain the thought of it.
But now, Cindy still didn’t dare to blatantly stare.
She only dared to secretly steal glances at Adrian’s waist, swallowing gently and discretely.
Even with Cindy trying to be discreet, Adrian could still feel her gaze.
It increasingly felt hotter.
Like the sun converging into a single point, burning onto his waist.
Adrian glanced at Cindy, who had her head lowered, all he could see was the swirl of her hair.
Even without seeing, Adrian could imagine her lowered head, sneakily glancing at him.
Thinking of her, like a kitten, stealing glances at him again and again.
It only made Adrian more amused.
“What are you sneaking glances at all the time?” Adrian asked, his voice slightly hoarse, making its way to Cindy from above her head.
Cindy did not expect that Adrian would notice.
She had been so engrossed in watching Adrian, she had missed the ensuing scenes of the movie’s leads.
Now, hearing Adrian’s question, Cindy felt even guiltier.
She didn’t even dare to look at the scenes in the movie anymore.
All she could hear was the breathing of the movie’s leads, it was quite intimate.
Especially without visual, the pictures her mind painted based on sound were even more explicit than the film.
“N-nothing…” Cindy said guiltily.
But at this moment, even without using a Family Head ability, without looking into Cindy’s eyes, just by looking at the direction of her lowered head, Adrian could guess where Cindy was looking at.
Adrian did not force Cindy to raise her head, he just held her in his arms.
Leaning down close to her ear, he whispered softly, “Is my waist better looking, or is his?”
Cindy felt Adrian’s warm breath brushing against her ear, it sent tingles down her scalp.
Her body shivered, knowing that Adrian’s “he” was referring to the male lead in the film.
Truth be told, this male lead was an international icon.
His body was superbly chiseled.
However, Cindy felt she preferred Adrian’s.
Thinking about his strong and narrow waist, it was difficult for Cindy to deny her attraction to him in good conscience.
So, she told the truth: “Yours is better looking.”
Since she was already discovered by Adrian, Cindy didn’t bother to conceal it anymore.
She even had a hint of recklessness about her.
She directly reached out to touch his waist.
It was still so firm.
Because Adrian had set up a fitness room at home, whenever he was at home and resting, he would carve out time to exercise for an hour or so.
The amount of time was not long, but with such persistence, Adrian’s physique was incredibly well maintained.
“After all, I can only see, not touch him. Who knows what he’d feel like if I actually did?” Cindy said, “Unlike you, you are tangible, I can touch you.”
“…” Adrian chuckled lightly, pinching Cindy’s cheek, “What? If you could touch him, you’d go touch him?”
“No, of course not.” Cindy replied, “Besides, this is all hypothetical. I can’t touch him in real life.”
“Listen to you talk. If you really wanted to, Dylan could make it happen.” Adrian said.
Cindy almost forgot, Zane Hamilton, Dylan’s family-owned company, is the top film and television company in the country.
They’ve even set foot in Hollywood, acquiring an established film company in Hollywood.
Even if that actor wasn’t signed to the Hamilton company, Hamilton’s strength alone could enable Cindy to meet him if she really wanted to.
A simple matter indeed.
Even some red carpet events, award ceremonies, if Cindy wished to go, to get close to a galaxy of stars, it would only take a simple invitation from Zane.
Cindy looked up to ask Adrian: “What if Dylan really could arrange it, would you let me?”
Adrian glanced at the screen in front of him, “Foreigners often have body odor.”
Cindy: “…”
His words made her feel as if she could smell it through the screen.
This man, if he didn’t want to let her, why’d he have to bring up body odor as an excuse.
“I still prefer yours.” Cindy said.
“Not because of the body odor?” Adrian asked.
Cindy: “…”
Can we stop bring up the matter of body odor?
“Regardless of whether he has it or not, I still prefer yours.” Cindy stated.
Adrian’s waist was just so enticing.
Adrian felt that it was only appropriate that he lets this girl properly feel him once more.
So that the next time she sees another man’s waist, she would have him as a basis for comparison, and every one of them would fall short of the bar he’d set.
If this happened often, Cindy wouldn’t even have the energy to notice other men.
She would find others uninteresting, not worth a second glance, and as time passed, she would even loose the desire to look at all.
Discarding his shirt, Adrian grabbed Cindy’s hand and placed it on his bare waist.
“The movie…” Cindy said.
The movie was still playing, it wasn’t finished yet.
Although, Cindy’s attention was no longer on the movie.
But, interrupting the movie halfway and letting it lead elsewhere, Cindy felt rather embarrassed.
Who knew, Adrian would raise an eyebrow: “Why? Want to keep looking at that wild man?”
Cindy: “…”
What did he mean by ‘wild man’?
He was simply an actor, and besides, he was only on the screen, he didn’t even know her.
Consequently, because Cindy didn’t respond in time, she was punished by Adrian.
“No wild men, just you.” Cindy hastily replied.
She just heard Adrian hum a few times, but she didn’t know if he was satisfied or not.
At that moment, she heard Adrian say: “I must make sure you don’t even have the energy to look at other men.”
Adrian took a short pause, then added: “I must also ensure you don’t have the energy to compare.”
Cindy was puzzled by these words, but when Adrian’s lips directly met hers…
Cindy understood.
When the movie ended, Cindy didn’t know.
She couldn’t discern if the breathing sounds were hers and Adrian’s or the movie’s leading actors.
Her mind was in a turmoil, she just felt like Adrian was extraordinarily vigorous tonight.
Chapter 843: Chapter 843: Look How Weak You Are_1
All Cindy Clarke knew was that she really didn’t have the strength to look at other men or even compare them anymore.
Even when there was a male actor on the screen right in front of her, she didn’t have the energy to compare.
In the past, Adrian Zhekova always somewhat considered her stamina, and he was clear about his own fitness levels.
Adrian Zhekova was usually diligent about his fitness, having both physical and mental strength.
Knowing this, he usually restrained himself.
But tonight, Adrian Zhekova was determined to show Cindy Clarke how formidable he was.
...
In the future…
What future? There was no need for comparisons!
He wanted Cindy Clarke to know just how fortunate she was to have a husband like him.
Even her share of love from him was more than what others had.
Look at those celebrities, they may be good-looking and have great figures,
But who knows if they are all for show and no substance.
Having him was far more practical.
Adrian Zhekova didn’t voice this thought, he just persistently busied himself with action.
Resultingly, Cindy Clarke had a rough night.
When Adrian Zhekova finally settled down and held her in his arms,
It was not only Cindy Clarke’s legs that were trembling, even her hands were shaking.
Because tonight Adrian Zhekova didn’t hold himself back at all.
After a previous period of restraint, tonight he finally let it all out, and he couldn’t help but exert all the effort he’d previously been holding back.
Under these circumstances, how could Cindy Clarke handle Adrian Zhekova.
So she either held onto his shoulders or grasped the sheets and pillows.
Whatever her hands could reach and grab, she grasped.
Moreover, her fingers would unwittingly exert force.
So when it was all over and her fingers finally relaxed, they were disobedient and trembling uncontrollably from the sustained compression.
Inwardly, Cindy Clarke cursed this man for his insanity!
She wanted to kick him but found she had no strength in her legs.
She wanted to punch him, but one move made her arm sore and aching terribly.
She couldn’t help but stay still.
It wasn’t that she was fragile, rather she was simply no match for Adrian Zhekova.
Cindy Clarke realized, that when Adrian Zhekova gave his all, she couldn’t keep up with his pace.
“Aye!” Unexpectedly, Cindy Clarke heard Adrian Zhekova sigh, “Next time join me in my workout.”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
Cindy Clarke didn’t even have the energy to talk now.
But she still had to reply: “Why should I need to work out?”
She had no desire to move.
She felt she was quite healthy.
She was active enough in her daily life and didn’t need to work out.
“With your level of fitness, how can you keep up?” Adrian Zhekova said, “Usually I restrain myself and you’re already struggling. I finally gave it my all tonight and look at how weak you are.”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
“That’s it then.” Adrian Zhekova unusually asserted himself to Cindy Clarke for his own future happiness and pleasure.
Really, he didn’t realize it when he was holding back.
But tonight he finally felt the enjoyment.
After a full meal, how could Adrian Zhekova ever go back to eating only 70% full?
So no matter what, he would drag Cindy Clarke to work out with him.
Cindy Clarke: “…”
Cindy Clarke was so angry it made her teeth itch.
After tormenting her all night, he still wanted to drag her to the gym.
But Cindy Clarke didn’t have the energy to think much and soon fell asleep in a daze.
It wasn’t until the next day that she faintly heard Adrian Zhekova speaking with their little one.
Cindy Clarke had a bit of consciousness but still didn’t want to wake up.
She just wanted to pull the covers over and continue sleeping.
But her mind was telling her there was something she needed to do today.
Chapter 844: Chapter 844: She Doesn’t Need to Lift a Finger_1
“Why did Cindy sleep in so late today?” A little voice wafted in from outside, “Even on her late days, Cindy doesn’t sleep this late.”
“Don’t rush her, let her sleep.” Cindy heard Adrian’s voice faintly.
“Dad, are we going to Fourth Grandfather’s house today?” the little one asked again.
“Hmm, it’s noon now, we’ll go this afternoon.” Adrian said.
Cindy hadn’t woken up yet, so they decided to go in the afternoon.
“I sure have a lot of grandfathers.” The young man shook his head, musing.
...
Adrian chuckled, lightly flicking the young man’s head.
“Cindy is very tired, keep your voice down and don’t disturb her.” Adrian instructed again.
The child blinked his big eyes, puzzled, “We’ve been with Cindy these days. She hasn’t done anything, why is she so tired?”
Adrian: “…”
Oh, should he tell his son that he was too vigorous, so that’s why Cindy is so tired?
“Dad, is Fourth Grandfather a nice person?” the young one asked again.
“Does he resemble second Grandpa or third Grandpa?” the lad questioned.
He liked third Grandpa but disliked second Grandpa.
If Fourth Grandfather is like third Grandpa, he will go.
If Fourth Grandfather is like second Grandpa, he doesn’t want to go.
“Emm…” Adrian thought for a moment, then said, “He doesn’t resemble either, but Fourth Grandfather is a good person, don’t worry.”
If Fourth Grandfather wasn’t pleasant, Adrian wouldn’t have bothered to take Cindy and Morgan with him today.
Upon hearing Adrian’s response, the child felt reassured.
During this blurred conversation, Cindy also remembered.
They were supposed to visit Third Great Grandpa and Lyke today.
Cindy quickly got up.
Only to find when she moved, her arms, legs, and waist were excruciatingly sore.
It was like she couldn’t even recognize her own body.
A slight movement resulted in sharp muscle pain.
Especially when she tried to rise, since her muscles had to exert an effort.
Slight muscle strain triggered aching pain.
It was like the first time doing yoga, the first time bending over after a long period of no exercise.
On the second day, any movement such as bending, squatting, sitting down, or getting up would hurt so much that you feel like screaming.
Cindy didn’t feel comfortable screaming.
Otherwise, she might have brought the child over, asking why she was screaming.
She would have to answer that it hurt.
Then the child would ask, why does it hurt?
What could Cindy answer to that?
Cindy understood the young man too well. Even if nothing had happened, she could predict what he would say.
So she clenched her teeth tightly, not making a sound.
Dragging her ache-ridden body to the restroom to freshen up.
Cindy wondered if this was a foretaste of the difficulties of aching waist and legs and muscle and joint pain in her old age?
At this moment, Cindy couldn’t even keep her waist straight. She had to bend over, almost lying on the table next to the sink, struggling to brush her teeth.
Adrian chatted with Morgan outside for a while, with Morgan doing most of the babbling.
Quite a little chatterbox.
Adrian received the video footage taken last night from his subordinate when Morgan was still talking.
The footage was of Ethan and Wendy meeting at the pub last night, all taken by Adrian’s men.
The reason it only arrived now was because of the noise in the pub.
Adrian’s people tried to go unnoticed, so naturally, they had to hide in inconspicuous corners, and they couldn’t get too close to Ethan.
Given the background music and trying to avoid being detected, naturally, Adrian’s people couldn’t record the conversation between Ethan and Wendy.
It was impossible to stick a microphone under Ethan and Wendy’s eyes.
So after they left, they removed the background music and tried their best to reduce the noise to the minimum.
But even then, they couldn’t record Ethan’s conversation with Wendy.
So they found someone who understood lip-reading to figure out what the two of them were saying.
After tidying up these bits, they sent everything to Adrian.
Saving Adrian from asking questions one by one.
They tried their best to be a good subordinate.
That’s why it took a while.
Adrian didn’t watch the footage in front of Morgan; he just told him, “I am going to check if Cindy’s awake yet.”
“Didn’t you just say not to wake Cindy up?” Morgan immediately said, why was he now going to wake Cindy up?
Adrian shot him a glance, saying, “I’m just checking to see if she’s awake, not making any noise.”
Aunt Jenkins was preparing lunch in the kitchen at the time.
It was too late for Cindy to get up by noon, even if she could, it would be too late for her to prepare lunch.
Adrian was still okay with waiting for Cindy to have lunch together.
But it was better for Morgan to eat on time.
After speaking, Adrian went back to his room first.
As soon as he went in, he saw that the bed was empty.
Water noises could be heard coming from the restroom.
Adrian went to open the restroom door directly.
He saw Cindy, hunched over, with her elbows bracing against the sink, washing her face.
Adrian: “…”
“This posture of yours…” Even Adrian, who had seen a lot, was taken aback by Cindy’s bizarre posture.
Cindy turned to Adrian as soon as she saw the culprit came, grimacing in pain, “It’s all your fault, I can’t even move without pain in every muscle.”
“I have to go see Third Great Grandpa and Fourth Uncle in the afternoon. I can’t even walk without pain, sitting down hurts so much, it’s terribly embarrassing!” The thought of the afternoon made Cindy feel overwhelmed.
“How about we don’t go this afternoon.” Adrian suggested.
Seeing Cindy in this condition, it seemed somewhat arduous.
“No, we can’t do that.” Cindy immediately stated.
Originally, she was supporting herself on the sink with her elbows.
Now she wanted to get up, she first raised an elbow, changed it to a hand to support herself on the sink.
After steadying herself, she then raised the other hand. Now both hands were supporting herself on the sink.
She then tried to stand up with her face twisted from muscle pain.
Adrian really hadn’t expected Cindy to be in such pain.
Actually, it’s not a big deal, it’s not like she’s injured.
It’s just comparable to the symptoms of a person who suddenly indulges in intensive exercise after years of no exercise.
However, it really is painful.
Seeing Cindy like this, Adrian hurried over and helped her stand straight.
“Have you finished freshening up?” Adrian asked her.
Cindy nodded, “I originally wanted to take a bath and wash my hair this morning, but I can’t even lift my hand because of the pain.”
Having a bath usually involved lifting hands and arms to apply body wash, right?
It was already challenging for Cindy to lift a little bit, let alone keep it constantly lifted and moving around.
After romping with Adrian last night, Adrian had bathed her.
With Adrian around, naturally, she didn’t lift a finger.
Chapter 845: Chapter 845: Refuse to Continue Witnessing their PDA_1
So she wasn’t really dirty at this moment, but she always felt insecure if she didn’t wash her hair. If it got greasy, it would look bad.
Adrian Zhekova was supporting her, holding Cindy Clarke just like he was embracing her.
He lowered his head, his nose touching Cindy’s hair: “It smells nice, no need to wash.”
“I washed it the day before yesterday, it’s the second day today.” Cindy said, she needed to wash her hair if she was going out.
Adrian Zhekova thought that Cindy was probably mad at him.
He needs to make up for it to appease her.
...
All of a sudden, Adrian thought of something.
“How about I wash it for you?” he suggested.
“How would you wash it for me?” Cindy asked in surprise, “If I could bend over, I would wash it myself.”
“You can lie down, you don’t have to move, I can wash it for you. Just like at the hair salon,” Adrian suggested.
“But where will I lie down? I can’t lie on the bed. When washing hair, it’s bound to wet the bed,” Cindy said, “Forget it, no need to wash it. I think my hair can make it through the day.”
“There’s a perfect place for this,” Adrian said, leading Cindy out of the bedroom.
The child was very happy to see Cindy up.
“Cindy, you’re awake,” the child said.
Cindy nodded, and then heard the child ask, “Where are you going?”
Cindy also looked at Adrian with puzzled eyes.
Because she didn’t know either.
“We are going to the gym,” Adrian said.
Then, the child, like a little tail, followed them.
Following Adrian and Cindy to the gym.
Adrian took Cindy to an arm strength machine.
This machine installed by Adrian was the same as the ones in a regular gym.
There was something like a small bed underneath it.
“You can lie on this, it’s perfect,” Adrian said, feeling quite clever.
But Cindy hesitated, wondering if it was appropriate for Adrian to wash her hair>.
“Maybe not,” Cindy said.
On the contrary, Adrian was enthusiastic and insisted on experiencing the feeling of washing Cindy’s hair.
He insisted on washing Cindy’s hair no matter what.
Cindy: “…”
Had she known, she wouldn’t have brought up the hair washing in the first place.
Adrian doesn’t know how to do it!
This time it’s washing hair, next time wouldn’t he want to experience cooking too?
“Hurry up, once we’re done, we can eat lunch,” Adrian urged.
“Ah, I forgot about lunch,” Cindy realized.
“It’s okay, Aunt Jenkins is doing it,” Adrian reassured her.
Finally, Cindy felt relieved.
Adrian insisted on helping Cindy to lie down.
Cindy couldn’t argue with him and had to go with it.
Although sitting down was quite painful, lying on the moderately soft and hard little bed was really comfortable.
“You wait here,” Adrian said, “I’m going to bring some hot water.”
There was also a restroom and a bathroom on the second floor which was very convenient.
Adrian left, but the child stayed to chat with Cindy.
“Cindy, why did you get up so late today?” the child did ask eventually.
Cindy: “…”
“I…. I don’t know. Somehow, I slept until this late,” Cindy said with an awkward face.
But it seemed the child didn’t notice, he asked again, “Why do you seem under the weather?”
When Cindy sat down just now, she was in so much pain that her facial features almost wrinkled up.
Even if Cindy didn’t say it, the child could tell.
Cindy: “…”
“I’m here,” Luckily, at this moment, Adrian came in with a basin.
There were two kettles in the basin.
“One kettle is hot water, the other is cold. I can mix them for you, so I don’t have to run back and forth,” Adrian explained.
Anyway, the small bed on the equipment was low, and Cindy’s head was at the perfect height with the basin when she lied down on it.
Adrian then directly sat on the ground for convenience.
He gathered all of Cindy’s long hair in his hand.
Fortunately, Cindy’s hair was not too long, so washing it wasn’t troublesome.
However, Adrian wasn’t experienced, so he was not very skilled in washing hair.
It took quite some effort to get her hair all wet before he squeezed some shampoo into his palm.
After lathering it up, he applied it onto her hair.
The dense bubbles from the shampoo, along with the friction in her hair, became richer and richer.
Slowly, the foam stained Cindy’s forehead.
Some water with foam made its way along her eyebrows, landed on her eyelashes.
Some got into Cindy’s closed eyes.
“Oh no, it’s getting into my eyes.” Cindy quickly shouted, “Adrian!”
“Right away.” Adrian quickly fetched a towel to wipe the foam off Cindy’s eyelids.
Then washed Cindy’s face with clear water, “Is it okay?”
“Yes, it’s okay,” Cindy felt that having Adrian wash her hair sounded romantic, but when she was in the midst of it, it was very nerve-wracking.
She was constantly on edge, fearing the foam would get into her eyes.
But Adrian became more skilled after a while.
Cindy couldn’t help saying, “How come you pick up everything so quickly.”
She felt that Adrian must be a winner in life.
Not to mention other things, even with things he didn’t know, he learned quickly and picked up in no time.
This was truly enviable.
“Wait, once your hair is all clean of the shampoo, we can apply conditioner,” Adrian said.
Cindy quickly said, “We can skip the conditioner, as long as my hair is clean.”
Cindy was getting a bit restless now.
“Won’t your hair get dry?” Adrian questioned.
“The sooner we finish, the earlier we can have lunch and leave,” Cindy explained, “I can just apply some hair care essential oil later.”
Only then did Adrian wring out the water from her hair and use a towel to dry her hair as much as possible.
Finally, he put a towel on Cindy’s head to dry her hair.
He carefully wrapped Cindy’s long hair in the towel, being careful not to pull her hair too hard.
As a result, the towel was kind of loose.
Looking at it, he suggested, “Why don’t I just blow-dry your hair.”
A lot of the remaining moisture had been absorbed by the towel in this while.
It wouldn’t take long to blow it dry.
Thinking about it, Cindy agreed.
And so, Cindy received full-service hair washing and drying from Adrian.
Finally, Adrian finished with all the fuss and helped Cindy up.
The child who was initially forced to witness PDA had refused to continue and left earlier.
Now he ran back saying, “Dad, Cindy, Grandma Jenkins said lunch is ready.”
Just in time, Cindy and Adrian had also finished here.
As Adrian was about to start cleaning up, Aunt Jenkins also came up and said, “Sir, madam, you go ahead with lunch, I’ll clean up here.”
So, Adrian and Cindy went for lunch with the child.
Chapter 846: Chapter 846: Even The Couple Is Watching Them Together_1
At the dinner table, Adrian Zhekova remembered that he originally wanted to show Cindy Clarke the video concerning Wendy Clarke and Ethan Zhekova.
Since there was nothing to do while eating and Aunt Jenkins had already finished tidying up the fitness room, she left.
Adrian Zhekova showed his mobile phone to Cindy Clarke: “Last night, Ethan Zhekova met with Wendy Clarke.”
Cindy Clarke was shocked and before looking at Adrian Zhekova’s mobile phone, she asked: “How did Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke get to know each other? When did they meet?”
The Gabriel Zhekova family harbored ill intentions towards Adrian Zhekova and Morgan Zhekova.
And Wendy Clarke couldn’t wait to see Cindy Clarke defeated.
...
Even, considering Wendy Clarke’s character, it wouldn’t be unlikely for her to wish for Cindy Clarke’s death.
These two people getting together, there could only be trouble.
Now even their couple was targeted as well.
“Take a look at the video. Even though you can’t hear the voices in the video, someone who understands lip-reading was hired to interpret it. There should be no issues.” Adrian Zhekova said.
“According to Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke, they met for the first time last night.” Adrian Zhekova said, “They were also trying to probe each other.”
“The first meeting?” Cindy Clarke was puzzled, but didn’t ask more.
She’d watch the video first.
If the video had the answers, there would be no need to ask more questions.
If not, she’d discuss it with Adrian Zhekova.
“This…” Cindy Clarke was stunned when she saw the video and heard their first sentence, “Is this dubbed?”
Adrian Zhekova chuckled: “They had the person who understands lip-reading do a real-time dubbing. This makes it more intuitive to watch.”
And it was easier to ascertain if the speech and lip movements matched.
Adrian Zhekova’s subordinates meticulously checked it.
What they said, indeed matched their lip movements.
Originally, the voices couldn’t be heard, only the opening and closing of lips could be seen, it was quite chaotic and incomprehensible.
But once the voices were heard coupled with the lip movements.
Whether what Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke said was what was implied became clear, it was impossible to trick anyone.
When Adrian Zhekova watched it, he also paid attention to the pronunciation and the matching of the lip movements.
After watching the video, Cindy Clarke furrowed her brows.
“These two, it was their first meeting.” Cindy Clarke said, feeling that things weren’t so simple, “But, was their meeting coincidental?”
“I feel like it’s not quite so.” Cindy Clarke asked Adrian Zhekova, “Is Ethan Zhekova the type who frequents places like these for leisure?”
Looking at the scene, there was only one man beside Ethan Zhekova.
It didn’t seem like a typical scenario for casual drinks and entertainment.
Although she wasn’t at the scene, it wasn’t good to make hasty judgments.
But from the dynamic video, there were a few instances where the man accompanying Ethan Zhekova also made it into the shot.
After all, the video was shot from a distant corner, and it couldn’t be accurate.
From these few shots, Cindy Clarke watched with a critical eye.
The young man’s attitude towards Ethan Zhekova didn’t seem friendly, more like a subordinate.
Especially at the beginning when Ethan Zhekova just walked in.
Since Adrian Zhekova’s men had been watching Ethan Zhekova.
Even though they followed Ethan Zhekova into the pub.
But as soon as they sat down, they started filming Ethan Zhekova.
At that time, Ethan Zhekova had not yet offered Wendy Clarke a drink and was not with Wendy Clarke.
One of the subordinates noticed Wendy Clarke and started filming her first.
Meanwhile, another continued filming Ethan Zhekova.
Therefore, after Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke met, the young man following Ethan Zhekova did not often appear in the shot.
But in the beginning, he was always in the shot.
The young man was being respectful and careful towards Ethan Zhekova, it was impossible that he was Ethan’s friend.
If the purpose was purely relaxation and enjoyment, it wouldn’t be in such a manner.
Looking at it, Cindy Clarke felt more like Ethan Zhekova was waiting for Wendy Clarke.
Cindy Clarke then asked Adrian Zhekova: “To me, it seemed like Ethan Zhekova targeted Wendy Clarke specifically.”
“After he sat down, his gaze was constantly on Wendy Clarke, clearly he knew beforehand that Wendy Clarke was there.”
Could Ethan Zhekova have love at first sight for Wendy Clarke?
It’s not that Cindy Clarke was being narrow-minded.
But how could a person like Ethan Zhekova, who wholeheartedly wants to push Adrian Zhekova out and strengthen himself through marriage, seriously like a commoner?
Love at first sight was impossible in Ethan Zhekova’s case.
Lust at first sight would be the truth.
But if it was indeed lust at first sight, how much charm could Wendy Clarke have to attract Ethan Zhekova’s attention?
Assuming Ethan Zhekova didn’t know the relationship between Wendy Clarke and her.
And he simply found Wendy Clarke attractive.
Then Ethan Zhekova’s taste was indeed unique.
He didn’t fancy the gorgeous ones, but was attracted to Wendy Clarke who was merely above average.
After all, Ethan Zhekova wasn’t considering marriage in his relationships.
He prioritized looks and body, it was all physical attraction, no emotions involved.
Under such a premise, soulful conversations were impossible.
There was no time and patience to develop an understanding of the inner self.
So Cindy Clarke felt, that if it was purely about looks, Wendy Clarke might be a bit lacking
“However, I don’t know much about Ethan Zhekova, is he a man who would… casually flirt with girls?” Cindy Clarke asked.
“What are his usual hobbies?” Cindy Clarke asked.
The reason Cindy Clarke believed that Ethan Zhekova was not serious about Wendy Clarke, even it wasn’t considered a romantic relation.
Apart from knowing Ethan Zhekova’s ambitions, even if he truly fell in love with an ordinary girl, he wouldn’t marry her.
Furthermore, in the video, Adrian Zhekova also received photos taken by his men who followed them all the way.
Because Cindy Clarke was directly using Adrian Zhekova’s mobile phone, she saw all the content.
After Ethan Zhekova and Wendy Clarke left the pub, Adrian Zhekova’s men continued to follow them.
Since both of them had been drinking, naturally they could not drive.
Ethan Zhekova had a driver, so he took Wendy Clarke in his car.
It was expected that they would go to a hotel or a similar place together.
Unexpectedly, Ethan Zhekova only dropped Wendy Clarke off at the entrance of her home before leaving on his own.
He did not accompany Wendy Clarke for some fun.
Afterwards, Ethan Zhekova just went home alone.
If Ethan Zhekova simply wanted a one-night stand, he would not have acted like he was on a date, or gallantly send Wendy Clarke back home without doing anything.
Adrian Zhekova looked at Morgan Zhekova, some words were inappropriate to say in front of Morgan Zhekova.
Conveniently, Morgan Zhekova noticed the glance from Adrian Zhekova and said: “Is there something inappropriate for minors that I can’t hear?”
“I’m afraid that speaking too much about your second uncle’s affairs might corrupt you.” Adrian Zhekova changed his explanation.
“Speak more about it, I’ll treat it as a negative example. Anything my second uncle does, I’ll do the opposite.” Morgan Zhekova cunningly said.
Chapter 847: Chapter 847: How Do You Know So Clearly If You’ve Never Been There_1
However, one has to admit, the little guy does have a point.
If it’s about being a bad role model in other respects, Adrian Zhekova doesn’t mind enlightening the little one.
For him to take as a warning.
But on the subject of Adrian Zhekova’s personal relationship matters, even if he’s progressive in his outlook on education, he can’t discuss it with his son who’s not even five years old yet.
“There are things I can tell you, others I can’t. I’ll wait until you’re older to discuss certain topics,” Adrian Zhekova said.
The little guy is full of zest and curiosity. If spoken to about these subjects now, he might actually comprehend them.
He pouted and continued eating his lunch.
Children, they are so underappreciated.
No one ever tells him anything.
A single phrase ‘you’re too young’ was enough to dismiss him.
Adrian Zhekova saw that the little one was sulking but didn’t throw a tantrum.
He didn’t insist on knowing what was being kept from him by wailing and causing a scene.
Adrian Zhekova then smiled faintly. His son is indeed well-behaved.
And so, the three of them finished their lunch together.
Adrian Zhekova then urged the little one to change into his outdoor clothes.
He and Cindy Clarke also returned to their bedroom to change.
And took this opportunity, Adrian Zhekova revealed to Cindy Clarke what he had held back from discussing in front of their son.
“Ethan Zhekova usually is a bit…” Adrian Zhekova pondered his wording for a moment, then continued, “carefree in his choices.”
“Given his usual indulgences, he wouldn’t ordinarily be found at a basic pub,” Adrian Zhekova stated.
“Ethan Zhekova has spots he frequents.” Adrian Zhekova said, “These places are not open to the general public, and it’s hard for your average person even to know about them.”
“Entry is often granted through a connection or a friend’s referral. Of course, the requirements are high. There are membership fees, which can range from several millions per year.”
“Naturally, the more expensive the place, the more unimaginable the activities.”
“Inside these places, there’s nothing they don’t cater to, making it a true gold-sink,” Adrian Zhekova explained.
“What exactly can be found there?” Hearing Adrian Zhekova describe it, Cindy Clarke became even more surprised.
“Let’s start with the basics, the ordinary food and drink, a single dish can cost several thousand. And it isn’t even necessarily that good. It’s more about aligning with the Clubhouse’s high-end image.”
“And of course, the customers who frequent such places are hardly strapped for cash. They aren’t going there for the food either. However, some people do conduct business there.”
“Because things are expensive, it appears more high-end,” Adrian Zhekova explained.
“The Clubhouse’s exclusive and secretive nature also makes it a suitable place for discussing important issues.”
“Besides these basic offerings, they also hold secretive auctions,” Adrian Zhekova added.
“Gambling isn’t involved?” Cindy Clarke asked.
“Gambling and drugs, these two are high risk, and the Clubhouses tend not to dip into these areas. Especially considering the fact that those who can afford to spend there are usually well-known or high-ranking individuals in society. Any scandal could lead to serious repercussions.”
“As opposed to drugs, they allow gambling within certain limits. It is done discretely, more like a game. While ordinary people may wager a little bit of money in games, if those individuals get involved, the stakes are much higher.”
“But the biggest money circulation is from auctions,” Adrian Zhekova explained, “Take for example items that are not so legally obtained. Goods stolen by grave robbers and sold on the black market. The more valuable items are auctioned at such places. It acts like a high-end black market.”
“Antiques that were smuggled overseas are sometimes resold by foreign buyers, due to various reasons, most often through such venues.”
Cindy Clarke sighed.
No wonder, Adrian Zhekova said the real money circulates there.
He referred to it as a gold sink.
The life of the rich is truly unimaginable.
“Besides these, of course, there are activities related to men and women,” Adrian Zhekova added.
“Multi-faceted activities, due to the Clubhouse’s secretive location and lack of restraint,” Adrian Zhekova said, “There are not many girls within the circle who are aware of these places, because the men wouldn’t tell them.”
“Financially independent women wouldn’t go there. Those without the means naturally wouldn’t have a way in.”
“Those who do go are usually from the fringe, like young models, who willingly participate in such activities for the money.”
“Thus, they are brought in and presented to clients for selection,” explained Adrian Zhekova.
“Isn’t that like a more expensive…” Cindy Clarke shyly left her sentence hanging.
Adrian Zhekova nodded: “Exactly.”
“They offer one-on-one, multi-on-one, and group engagements,” Adrian Zhekova elaborated.
“Remember the news exposé about a party on South Sea Island?” Adrian Zhekova asked. “The one where the outrageous happenings were leaked?”
Cindy Clarke nodded, she’d seen that exposé.
It caused quite a stir online.
Wave after wave of shocking revelations. It was a blatant challenge to societal norms.
“The activities at those Clubhouses would only be more excessive, more challenging to people’s sense of morality than what was leaked,” Adrian Zhekova said, “It just hasn’t been exposed yet.”
Bertrand York also owns a Clubhouse, named Red Roof.
But it’s nothing like the Clubhouse mentioned by Adrian Zhekova.
Bertrand York’s Clubhouse is simply a place for food and business discussions.
While the pricing is steep, the reasons are the excellent environment, good services, rarely found ingredients and unique dishes.
Also accounting for some margins.
However, it does not indulge in any underhanded activities.
Many people hear ‘Clubhouse’ and assume it’s a seedy place.
It’s tainted by the places that Ethan Zhekova and his circle frequent.
Without waiting for Cindy Clarke to ask, Adrian Zhekova quickly defended his innocence: “I have never been to the kind of place that Ethan Zhekova frequents!”
Cindy Clarke was startled.
She hadn’t even considered this issue yet.
But Adrian Zhekova brought it up himself.
Which made her think.
“You’ve never been, so how come you know so much about it?” Cindy Clarke asked.
She definitely trusts Adrian Zhekova.
This man, he’s the picture of rectitude.
It’s not only Adrian Zhekova asserting his innocence.
Even if someone tried to spread rumors that Adrian Zhekova had been or wanted to go to such places to Cindy Clarke,
She wouldn’t believe them.
After all, Adrian Zhekova gives her such a strong sense of security, it’s hard not to trust him.
The sort which doesn’t allow even a brief period of doubt to arise.
So even though Adrian Zhekova described it in detail, not a single doubt crossed Cindy Clarke’s mind.
The question Cindy Clarke asked is not because she has doubts about him.
Chapter 848: Chapter 848: What’s the use of him looking for Wendy Clarke?_1
Just following his words, a very reasonable doubt arose.
Isn’t this exactly what this conversation is about?
Cindy Clarke just naturally continued the conversation.
“…” Adrian Zhekova also realized that Cindy Clarke hadn’t thought in this direction at all.
It was only when he took the initiative to explain that he induced Cindy Clarke to think in this direction.
Otherwise, Cindy Clarke wouldn’t think about this at all.
Adrian Zhekova quickly explained: “I heard this from others.”
“Oh.” Cindy Clarke nodded in agreement, she believed him.
She really did believe it.
However, Adrian Zhekova felt that Cindy Clarke was being sarcastic.
In other words, Cindy Clarke didn’t know what Adrian Zhekova was thinking.
Otherwise, Cindy Clarke would have to say that sometimes men’s minds are also very complicated!
They always say that women’s minds are complicated and full of various thoughts.
Adrian Zhekova quickly explained: “After all, our circle is small, just this much.”
“Besides, Ethan Zhekova is my cousin. Wherever he goes and what he does, even if it has nothing to do with others, people would bring him up as a topic to me.”
“Although he doesn’t report every single detail to me, his matters can serve as a starting point.”
“Moreover, even though I don’t go to such places, when I socialize, there are always people who want to take me there. How could I not investigate what’s inside these places?”
“From the expressions of those who invite me, I can tell that they are not ordinary clubhouses. There’s something off about them. Coupled with the usual news about Ethan Zhekova, how could I possibly go to such disgusting places?”
“I then had people investigate the inside of that clubhouse in detail that’s how I know all this.” Adrian Zhekova said.
“At first, I had just heard about it, so I didn’t go. But after knowing the detailed situation inside, I would never go there even more.” Saying this, Adrian Zhekova revealed a look of disgust on his face.
He obviously felt that the place was filthy, and held it in extreme contempt.
Cindy Clarke couldn’t help but laugh and said, “I understand.”
“I don’t suspect anything at all.” said Cindy Clarke. “It’s true.”
In order to make Adrian Zhekova believe her, Cindy Clarke raised her head and looked straight into Adrian Zhekova’s eyes, letting him read her thoughts.
Adrian Zhekova indeed understood.
He understood that Cindy Clarke never doubted him from the start.
Adrian Zhekova just helplessly shook his head, thinking how good it would be if Cindy Clarke also had the ability to read minds.
In that way, he could prove his innocence effortlessly.
“Did Ethan Zhekova purposely send Wendy Clarke home indicating that he wants to seriously pursue and date her?” asked Cindy Clarke.
According to what Adrian Zhekova said, if Ethan Zhekova just wanted to play around, his behaviour would not be like this.
“Seriously pursue and date her.” Adrian Zhekova muttered, “Ethan Zhekova might not be without such intention.”
This time, Cindy Clarke was truly surprised.
Cindy heard Adrian Zhekova continue speaking: “The process is indeed like that, but the outcome is bound to be different.”
When Cindy Clarke looked at him with questioning eyes, Adrian Zhekova thought in his heart, this girl’s eyes could talk.
Even without the ability to read minds, just by looking into her eyes, he knew what she was thinking about.
Looking at Cindy Clarke, Adrian Zhekova couldn’t help but smile, saying, “Both Ethan Zhekova and my second uncle and aunt would like to marry a girl from a wealthy family. Neither Ethan Zhekova himself, nor my second uncle and aunt, think highly of Wendy Clarke.”
Cindy Clarke nodded her head.
She was very clear about this.
After all, yesterday, the contempt Gabriel Zhekova and Mila Harrison had for her, she had experienced it first hand.
Ethan Zhekova hadn’t even had a good look at her and the little one.
Ethan Zhekova thought Cindy Clarke didn’t care.
Although Cindy didn’t show any abnormalities yesterday.
But in actuality, Cindy Clarke noticed everything.
“Ethan Zhekova himself also doesn’t respect her. So naturally, he isn’t intending to develop any good results with Wendy Clarke.” Adrian Zhekova said.
“So, he was aiming for you, looking for Wendy Clarke to use her.” Cindy Clarke frowned, “But what can he use Wendy Clarke for?”
“Wendy Clarke doesn’t know anything about you. Even about me, ever since I came to Belfard, she has had no understanding of me.” Cindy Clarke said.
Otherwise, at the New Year’s Day banquet, there wouldn’t have been such a big blunder.
She wouldn’t even have known about Cindy Clarke and Adrian Zhekova’s marriage.
Because when it came to those close to her, Cindy Clarke naturally wouldn’t hide anything.
“Moreover, even if we’re connected by blood ties, to tell you the truth, I have no contact with Wendy Clarke and wouldn’t give her any opportunity to come find me.” Cindy Clarke frowned and said, “So what’s the point of him looking for Wendy Clarke?”
Do they want to smear her name with the Clarke Family’s?
Indeed, Wendy Clarke had nobody to help her before.
But with Ethan Zhekova as backup, things would be different.
If they really wanted to smear her, with Ethan Zhekova raising hell, it would be quite troublesome to deal with.
Could it be that he wanted to use her to hurt Adrian Zhekova?
Adrian Zhekova thought to himself, there were too many ways to make use of Wendy Clarke.
No matter what, Joshua Clarke and Christy Xenos are Cindy Clarke’s parents.
Even though Cindy Clarke doesn’t have feelings for Christy Xenos and Joshua Clarke is weak…
But still, Joshua Clarke hadn’t done anything to seriously hurt Cindy Clarke.
Though weak and easily influenced, he had hurt Cindy Clarke’s heart.
But as his child, if something really happened to Joshua Clarke, could Cindy Clarke really ignore it?
It’s possible that Ethan Zhekova could control Cindy Clarke by harming Joshua Clarke.
Of course, it’s also possible to utilize Wendy Clarke, brainwash Joshua Clarke, and unite them to do something against Cindy Clarke.
In short, there are many possibilities.
However, Adrian Zhekova didn’t tell Cindy Clarke.
It’s just a guess for now.
Sharing too much would just cause Cindy Clarke more trouble.
Adrian Zhekova just smiled, put his hand on Cindy Clarke’s shoulder and led her into the walk-in wardrobe connected to the bedroom.
After Cindy Clarke and the little one moved in, Adrian Zhekova remodeled the room a bit.
He left his original walk-in wardrobe as it was and built a separate new one for Cindy Clarke, connected to their bedroom.
“My people are telling me everything about Ethan Zhekova. As soon as he makes a move, they report it to me instantly.” Adrian Zhekova said, “So no matter what Ethan Zhekova does, we would know it right away.”
“Of course, in that case, we would know what he’s up to.” Adrian Zhekova said.
He said it in a relaxed tone: “Alright, don’t think so much. Change your clothes first.”
Cindy Clarke nodded, she could only do so.
Adrian Zhekova then also went to his walk-in wardrobe to change his clothes.
Since they talked for quite a while before changing their clothes, it took them some time.
By the time they came out of the bedroom, the little one had been waiting in the living room for quite a while.
Hearing their voices, he quickly ran over: “Daddy, Cindy, why are you guys so slow!”
Chapter 849: Chapter 849: The Old Master is Probably Going to Provoke Again_1
The little guy put his hands on his hips, suspecting that the two of them had been whispering behind his back.
Humph!
The little guy puffed out his cheeks and pouted.
These two were always secretive!
Cindy Clarke knew the little guy too well.
Upon seeing his reaction, she immediately knew why the little guy was upset.
...
He didn’t even have to speak out.
As it happened, the little guy’s eyes met Adrian Zhekova’s.
In this way, the little guy freely found out what was on his mind.
The corner of Adrian Zhekova’s mouth then slightly curled up.
Cindy Clarke quickly put on a serious face and looked the little guy up and down.
“Wow! You look so handsome today,” Cindy said.
As expected, the little guy immediately forgot his recent resentment.
He promptly puffed up his little chest.
As the golden grandson of the Zhekova Family, how could he have only one set of new clothes for the holidays?
During the holidays, in addition to the new clothes that Cindy Clarke and Adrian Zhekova bought for the little guy.
The elder couple also got some for him.
There were also clothes from Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler.
The main thing was, none of the seniors wanted to fall behind.
How could there only be new clothes from Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke?
The grandparents wanted the little guy to know that they hadn’t forgotten about him either!
As a result, the elders also took the little guy to the shopping mall to choose clothes.
Consequently, a competition ensued between the elder couple.
Both elders fought to pay the bill.
The old master bought a coat.
Old Madam felt that the rest of what she got wasn’t as expensive as that coat.
This inequality bothered her.
So, the old madam also decided to buy the little guy a coat of the same value.
Originally, the old madam wanted to buy a coat more expensive than the one the old master bought in order to outdo him.
However, when the old master saw this, he immediately became frantic.
“That’s so sneaky! Trying to buy something more expensive than mine! No way, you have to buy something of the same price as me!” the Old Master protested.
If it really came down to it, the old master would make up for the price by buying more sweaters, trousers, and such.
But he feared the old madam wouldn’t be honest. If the old master bought first and the old madam later, she might outdo him in price.
So, the old master said, “You can buy that one too, but for the sweater you’re buying later, you have to buy first.”
Upon hearing this, the old madam caught on to the old master’s plan.
The old madam expressed that she would not be deceived.
“Ha! I see what you’re up to! You want me to buy first so you can buy something even more expensive later!” the old madam said.
Little guy: “…”
The little guy was getting anxious, he never thought that his great grandfather and great grandmother would start arguing over buying him new clothes.
This… thank goodness he was just a little boy, a boy at that.
Otherwise, it would be like that red whatever water!
However, this still highlighted his status as the golden grandson of the Zhekova Family.
His status even surpassed his dad’s.
“Great Grandpa, Great Grandma, don’t fight over me,” the little guy was holding his chubby cheeks, blushing and twisting his waist.
Oh dear, being so popular did have its own troubles!
“I bought first this time, next time you buy first, that’s fair!” the old master stomped his feet.
“Ah! Let’s not argue, let’s not fight!” the little guy argued anxiously, “How about… how about we all buy clothes around the same price?”
It’s hard to find different clothes that cost exactly the same.
“Just… if they’re just a few or tens of yuan apart, it doesn’t matter,” the little guy suggested. Remembering the price of the coat the old master just bought for him, he quickly added, “even a few hundred yuan apart would be fine.”
The clothes that Cindy Clarke used to buy for the little guy weren’t considered luxurious.
There were some worth tens of yuan, hundreds, even thousands.
But she had never bought any worth tens of thousands.
This time, the old master bought a famous down jacket brand.
It cost a staggering twelve thousand.
Now the old madam wanted to match this price.
The little guy had tried on several pieces from this brand.
There weren’t many options for kids’ clothes to begin with.
The little guy had chosen his favorite one.
So the old madam decided that buying more from this store wasn’t suitable.
Therefore, under the reluctant gaze of the saleswoman, they went to another equally expensive down jacket brand.
This brand had a completely different style, and the old madam had the little guy try on a few pieces.
Thinking that he looked good in all of them, she wanted to buy all of them.
But with the old master watching like a hawk, there was no way the old madam would let that happen.
So the little guy said, “Great Grandma, it’ll be warm again in a few months and I won’t be able to wear them anymore! Let’s just buy one this time, we can buy new ones later, so I’ll always have new clothes to wear!”
Finally, the old madam reluctantly agreed.
After much effort, she finally picked out one with a price similar to the one the old master had chosen.
Therefore, the two elders began to compete again to buy other items.
Although the little guy felt very fortunate.
But with the old master and the old madam competing like this, the efficiency of clothes shopping dropped significantly.
They spent an entire day shopping.
Not only were the two elders overwhelmed.
But the little guy also didn’t want to visit the shopping mall again in the short term.
It was a painful yet enjoyable experience.
Of course, this competition didn’t occur between Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler.
But Maverick Zhekova felt that since Cindy Clarke and Adrian Zhekova had bought clothes for the little guy, and even the two elders had each gotten him a set, they, as grandparents, shouldn’t fall behind, either.
So they also took the little guy shopping for another set of clothes.
As a result, the little guy had a total of four sets of new outfits for the holidays.
Whenever he went out to pay a New Year visit, he could always wear something different.
And his outfit today was different from the other days.
And these were all outfits that the little guy had picked out himself.
The little guy was pleased that his fashion choices had been validated.
“This coat was bought by Great Grandpa, this sweater by Great Grandma, these trousers by Grandpa, and these shoes by Great Grandpa,” the little guy said.
Cindy thought that if the two elders had been present, the old master probably would have felt provoked again.
Today, the old master bought one more item.
The old master won.
“You mustn’t tell Great Grandpa and Great Grandma about this,” Cindy quickly warned, “otherwise, they’re going to start arguing again.”
The little guy nodded: “I won’t say.”
Checking the time, it was already 2pm. Time to head out.
So the three of them quickly set off.
Adrian Zhekova drove them to the place where Third Old Master Zhekova lived.
Although Third Old Master Zhekova was wheelchair-bound and less mobile, he was still in good spirits.
And his mind was clear.
“Fourth Uncle isn’t usually here, so Third Grandpa has his own caregiver, along with servants and bodyguards assigned by the family. This is to avoid hiring outsiders who’s backgrounds are unknown,” she explained.
They don’t want anyone to take advantage of Third Old Master Zhekova’s age or the fact that he has limited mobility to skim a little off the top.
In reality, whether they worked for the family mansion or for Third Old Master Zhekova, they were always well-compensated.
There was no need to skimp or feel short-changed; they earned a fair amount.
Chapter 850: Chapter 850: Lyke Zhekova_1
Take Butler Howard and Aunt Evans’ possession of two houses in Belford – this is already a far superior achievement compared to those locals who are struggling to make ends meet.
Moreover, they usually bring numerous nourishing gifts to the family mansion.
The two old folks can’t possibly consume everything on their own.
Such food items could easily expire if kept for too long.
The elderly would not be stingy and would naturally give it to those working in the mansion.
Butler Howard and Aunt Evans have no shortage of these.
...
They don’t even need to spend their own money to buy them.
The offerings from the older generation alone are enough for them.
The situation is the same at Third Old Master Zhekova’s place.
However, satisfaction and temperance often depend on the individual.
Some are greedy, no matter how much they obtain, they’re never content.
They always want more.
Excess can either be shared with their own family, or sold at a profit.
Of course, not everyone is like this, but in order to avoid potential problems, the Zhekova Family has arranged for trustworthy family members to look after Third Old Master Zhekova.
These are people our family can trust.
It lessened much of our worries.
“Fourth Uncle, like us, chooses to reside somewhere near to the company for the convenience of his work.” Adrian Zhekova explained.
The family mansion became part of Belford’s commercial district because it was a property inherited from ancient times.
Back then, the mansion sat atop the Imperial City Base.
Indeed, like the old mansion, some buildings are cultural relics that cannot be demolished due to modern construction.
This mansion just happens to belong to the Zhekova Family generation after generation.
Therefore, the geographic location of the mansion is an exception.
Nowadays, it’s practically impossible for a grand villa to be located within a city’s district.
It’s always a bit out of the way.
However, there’s plenty of land and the environment is good.
The area where Third Old Master Zhekova lives is a bit far, but the greening within the area is particularly good.
Looking around, lush greenery is everywhere.
Living here feels like residing within a large garden.
The caregiver can easily take Third Old Master Zhekova for a daily sunbath.
They do not need to walk far; a stroll within the residential area is convenient enough.
However, because it’s somewhat remote, it’s inconvenient for Lyke Zhekova to get to work.
While they were talking, the three of them had already reached the entrance of Third Old Master Zhekova’s residence.
Adrian Zhekova rang the doorbell.
Cindy Clarke was very nervous yesterday, mainly because she didn’t know Gabriel Zhekova well.
This caused her to feel apprehensive before entering the mansion.
Even earlier, the first time she visited the family mansion with Adrian Zhekova, although it was not her first visit.
Her original visit to the mansion was as a chef.
But that earlier meeting was as Adrian Zhekova’s girlfriend.
At that time, she was quite nervous too.
Even later events, no matter what happened, were less nerve-wracking than that particular occasion.
However, after meeting Gabriel Zhekova’s family yesterday and understanding what kind of people Gabriel Zhekova and Ethan Zhekova were,
Cindy Clarke naturally wouldn’t have any more respect or concerns for them.
Visiting the Third Old Master today, it had a different feeling.
Adrian Zhekova had already mentioned that Third Old Master Zhekova and Lyke Zhekova were both good people.
Cindy Clarke wasn’t worried.
She didn’t expect them to like her at first meeting.
Cindy Clarke acknowledges that she is not a person who is universally loved by everyone she meets.
As long as the Zhekovas do not hate her, she’s satisfied.
When Adrian Zhekova pressed the doorbell, Cindy Clarke did not show any signs of nervousness.
Morgan Zhekova was curious about the big gate in front of him.
The main gate of the villa wasn’t very high.
The security here was excellent, and the villas were designed for aesthetic appeal rather than having tall fortifications.
Furthermore, protection was provided at Third Old Master Zhekova’s place, so burglary was not a concern.
Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke were tall enough to look directly over the gate and walls to see some of the scenery within the courtyard.
It was only because Morgan Zhekova was too short to see over the gate.
Shortly after, a young man approached.
This was one of the bodyguards in charge of the security here.
“Master Adrian, Mrs.,” the young bodyguard immediately greeted them.
Morgan Zhekova was too small.
Behind the door, the young bodyguard couldn’t see Morgan.
Only when the gate was opened did he see Morgan standing on the other side of Adrian Zhekova.
Immediately after seeing Morgan’s adorable appearance, the young bodyguard understood why he didn’t see the kid earlier.
Taken aback, he couldn’t help but suppress a smile and greeted, “Hello young master.”
“Hello, uncle,” Morgan replied, with a soft voice.
This voice nearly softened the young bodyguard’s heart.
He almost succumbed to the temptation and lifted Morgan up just to squeeze his soft cheeks.
Adrian Zhekova led Cindy Clarke and Morgan through the courtyard and finally to the front door.
Before he could ring the doorbell,
The front door swung open.
In front of them stood a very tall and handsome man.
He appeared to be in his thirties, not much older than Adrian Zhekova.
Cindy Clarke was stunned for a moment.
This man bore a slight resemblance to Adrian Zhekova, making him unmistakably a member of the Zhekova Family.
“Come in, come in,” the man said warmly as soon as he saw them.
“Fourth Uncle, you shouldn’t have opened the door yourself,” Adrian Zhekova laughed.
It was only then that Cindy Clarke realized that this man was Lyke Zhekova.
He looked much younger than she expected.
Maverick Zhekova was 55 years old, but he looked as if he was in his early 40s because he took good care of his health.
However, Maverick Zhekova felt compelled to maintain his youthful appearance.
Who could blame him? Victoria Wheeler looks so tender and young.
Maverick Zhekova didn’t want people to think they’re father and daughter or uncle and niece when they go out together.
He had no choice but to go all out to maintain his appearance.
Also, he didn’t want Victoria Wheeler to despise him!
With a wife so beautiful and young, he didn’t want to appear like some old fart by her side
Straightened by the thought of Victoria Wheeler’s potential disgust,
Maverick Zhekova has been working hard to keep himself fit and fresh.
He has maintained his physique and face looking sharp.
Meeting strangers who don’t know him, they could mistake him for a popular celebrity.
Cindy Clarke’s Fourth Uncle in front of her looked merely thirty-ish, but she didn’t know how old he really was.
If she met him on the road not knowing who Lyke Zhekova was, she would also suspect him to be some celebrity.
“It’s your first time bringing Cindy Clarke and Morgan here,” Lyke Zhekova said with a smile.
One look and you knew he attached great importance to this meeting.
This was entirely different from Gabriel Zhekova.
Talk about Gabriel Zhekova, even though he has the Zhekova genes, his looks were not significant.
Perhaps it’s because Gabriel Zhekova was always preoccupied with seizing power, leaving no time or energy to maintain his appearance.
In fact, he looks much older than Maverick Zhekova.
His face was marked with deeper and more wrinkles.
Lyke Zhekova had a gentle look, and his gaze on Cindy Clarke and Morgan was one of kindness.
Adrian Zhekova then led Cindy Clarke and Morgan into the house.
Once inside, they found that Third Old Master Zhekova had also come to the entrance.
He was at the entrance hall.
To give them room to change their shoes, he didn’t stand by the door like Lyke Zhekova.