Ch. 911..920
Chapter 911: I Still Prefer You_1 They found a comedy show to watch while enjoying some barbeque and beer.
What a blissful life, indeed!
“Cindy is here too,” the Old Madam said, “I thought you’d want to chat with Cindy some more.
You haven’t had the chance to talk much.”
“Fortunately, we’re all here.
You must be worried about Cindy since you’re at home all by yourself?” the Old Madam added.
Peggy Lewis: “….”
The Old Madam’s words hit the bull’s eye.
Peggy Lewis was wavering indeed, yearning to go.
...
She was indeed quite worried about Cindy Clarke.
If Cindy weren’t there, regardless of what the Old Madam said, Peggy Lewis definitely would not have wanted to go to the family mansion.
“So I was thinking, since you haven’t eaten dinner yet,” the Old Madam continued, “Lyke hasn’t eaten either.
He’s coming back anyways, so he might as well bring you along.”
Listening to the Old Madam’s words, Peggy Lewis started to feel that something was off.
Why is it that Lyke Zhekova needs to bring her back to dinner?
“That’s settled then,” the Old Madam declared, then added a complaint to Lyke, “It’s all Lyke’s fault.
He neglected even a simple task of having dinner together.”
Peggy Lewis was dumbfounded.
Is dinner such a crucial matter?
“Even I didn’t anticipate it, let alone Mr.
Zhekova,” Peggy Lewis responded.
“Just because you didn’t anticipate it doesn’t mean Lyke is not at fault,” the Old Madam defended, “It’s settled then.
Hurry up and let Lyke bring you back, alright?”
The Old Madam didn’t give Peggy Lewis another chance to speak and directly demanded, “Peggy, give Lyke the mobile phone.
I have a few more words for him.”
Peggy Lewis had no choice but to comply obediently.
She answered with a “Sure” and handed the mobile phone to Lyke Zhekova, saying, “Old Madam would like to say a few more words to you.”
Lyke Zhekova took over the mobile phone.
Nowadays, mobile phones are made with larger and larger screens, thus increasing their size as well.
Generally speaking, when two people pass a phone to each other, considering the size, their hands shouldn’t touch.
Peggy Lewis just held half of the phone.
It might be because Lyke Zhekova’s fingers were too long.
He reached out casually, and the tips of his index and middle fingers accidentally brushed the tip of Peggy Lewis’ fingers.
Covering most of her fingernails and the skin around them.
It was surprisingly warm.
Peggy Lewis’ fingers trembled a little as if a faint current passed through.
Especially where he had touched, it was more intense.
However, Lyke Zhekova seemed to not have done it on purpose.
In less than a second, he quickly moved his fingers away.
Once Peggy Lewis let go, she saw that Lyke Zhekova had taken the phone with no unusual expression on his face.
He must have accidentally touched her just now.
Peggy Lewis thought she was overthinking.
Peggy Lewis despised this about herself.
She wasn’t usually like this.
She never fancied herself in a narcissistic way, thinking a man would like her just because he got close.
Nor was she a love-struck fool, who liked a man just because he was good-looking.
Of course, her own steaming thoughts and reality are definitely different.
Peggy Lewis realized her reaction was unusually strong.
During ordinary times when she went to the Supermarket to buy things and had to hand over items to clients, there were inevitably accidental touches.
Whenever she passed things, her hand might accidentally touch the other person’s.
But she never thought much about it.
She was truly unusual tonight.
She was behaving completely like a love-struck fool.
While Lyke Zhekova was still on call, Peggy Lewis slyly pinched herself on the thigh.
Being brutal towards herself, she didn’t show any mercy.
She used excessive force.
Peggy Lewis pinched herself so hard that she almost brought tears to her eyes.
She sharply inhaled a breath.
Lyke Zhekova was still talking to the Old Madam.
However, most of the time, the Old Madam was speaking while Lyke just responded “Hmm” casually.
Lyke Zhekova wasn’t paying attention.
He didn’t care about the Old Madam’s words.
He didn’t even remember what the Old Madam said and some of it he didn’t even hear clearly.
He just casually responded with a “Hmm.”
At this moment, Lyke Zhekova’s attention was still on Peggy Lewis.
Seeing how Peggy Lewis was still struggling, even her facial expressions slightly distorted, made Lyke Zhekova intrigued.
After hanging up the phone, Lyke Zhekova asked Peggy Lewis, “What’s wrong?”
Peggy Lewis squeezed out an expression, pretending to be fine, which was worse than crying and said, “Nothing.”
Lyke Zhekova doubts for a while but couldn’t figure out anything.
He just suggested, “Shall we get in the car then?
We should head to the family mansion.”
This was Peggy Lewis’ first time going to the family mansion.
She got in the car in a dizziness, still feeling somewhat clouded.
Even though she was worried about Cindy,
how did she end up going to the family mansion?
As Lyke Zhekova drove the car out, Peggy Lewis began to hear a continuous “beep” sound.
Peggy Lewis was still a little dazed previously.
Now awakened by the beeping sound, she was puzzled, “Why is it continuously ringing?”
Only then did Lyke Zhekova reply, “It’s a reminder that you’ve not put on the seat belt.”
Peggy Lewis finally came to her senses and quickly put on her seatbelt.
She completely forgot about the seatbelt when she first got onto the car due to her dizziness.
After wearing the seatbelt, she felt extremely embarrassed.
How could she forget such a thing?
At the family mansion, after the Old Madam hung up the phone, she said to Cindy Clarke, “Cindy, I’m sorry for using you to lure Peggy Lewis here.”
Cindy Clarke shook her head, “No worries, I had nothing important to do anyway.”
“Ah, I just thought of what Samson said about observing how Fourth Uncle interacted with Peggy Lewis.” the Old Madam mentioned.
Old Madam again took Cindy’s hand and whispered, “As a matter of fact, the one I like the most is….”
“Ahem!” Before the Old Madam could utter the word “you”, Cindy quickly coughed to interrupt.
Not because Cindy was narcissistic, but given the Old Madam’s history of favoritism within the household, Cindy was certain that the word “you” was about to be said.
No room for doubt at all.
So, Cindy stopped the Old Madam from uttering the words.
She signaled the Old Madam with her eyes that Victoria Wheeler was still present.
The Old Madam quickly changed her tact.
Indeed, she did not dare to continue.
Cindy knew she was about to say it.
Cindy just kept smiling.
The Old Madam chuckled awkwardly and said, “In any case, I like you better.”
But she omitted the word “most.”
Cindy nodded in understanding but just brushed off Old Madam’s comment about “liking her more.”
Chapter 912: An Image is Formed in the Mind_1 Who doesn’t know about Old Madam’s petty skills?
I bet Victoria Wheeler knows it too.
From the expression on Victoria Wheeler’s face, one can tell.
Cindy Clarke simply and insincerely said, “Grandmother, I am aware.”
Victoria Wheeler feels like she can’t bear to look anymore.
The two of them seem to be purposefully getting on each other’s nerves.
***
Peggy Lewis is not a hesitant girl.
She travelled quite a distance with Lyke Zhekova earlier.
...
They had a chat under her house which wasn’t exactly friendly, but at least it wasn’t awkward.
The journey to the family mansion took even longer than the trip to Peggy’s house.
They both chatted a lot on the way.
Peggy Lewis gradually started to relax.
She didn’t expect Lyke Zhekova to be such a talkative person.
Lyke Zhekova even talked about her company and work.
Before they knew it, they reached the entrance of the family mansion.
Lyke Zhekova got out of the car and opened the door for Peggy Lewis.
They pressed the bell at the entrance of the family mansion, and not long after, Butler Howard opened the gate.
Lyke Zhekova then led Peggy Lewis inside.
Butler Howard initially wanted to receive them.
After all, it was Peggy Lewis’s first visit to the family mansion.
But Old Madam was worried that this would put pressure on Peggy Lewis and scare her.
So they decided to keep things casual.
Thus, Butler Howard didn’t formally greet them.
Lyke Zhekova walked with Peggy Lewis through the courtyard of the family mansion.
The garden of the family mansion is lit well at night.
The traditional garden looks even more eerie at night if not lit properly.
Especially the artificial piles of rocks in the garden, which seem even more shadowy under the moonlight.
Walking through it can be scary.
Hence, the family mansion’s garden is always well lit at night.
Especially when young ones live in the family mansion, who can’t keep still and love to play outside.
They can’t be allowed to get scared.
Even with such precautions, having company is necessary.
Walking around here alone can be quite scary.
The main reason is that the garden is huge, and it can be a bit unsettling to wander alone at night.
At this point, Peggy Lewis felt a bit nervous.
Even though she knew it was just the family mansion and there was nothing to be scared of.
But she couldn’t help but think too much.
However, Peggy Lewis didn’t want to stick too close to Lyke Zhekova.
That might look like she was taking advantage of him and might cause a misunderstanding, which would not be good.
But Peggy Lewis didn’t consider, who would be making use of whom if she got closer.
Peggy Lewis could only try to stay as close to Lyke Zhekova as possible.
The distance between them was kept at an arm’s length, she couldn’t get any further away.
At this time, Lyke Zhekova said, “Are you hungry?”
Peggy Lewis shook her head and said, “No, not at all.
I’m really not hungry.”
“It was my oversight earlier.
If Old Madam hadn’t reminded me, I wouldn’t have remembered,” Lyke Zhekova said, “It’s already this late, and I didn’t even think that you might be hungry.”
The fact that Lyke Zhekova seemed so self-blaming made Peggy suggests, “I’m really not hungry.
I was actually thinking of getting takeout when I got home and eating while watching variety shows.
It’s quite relaxing.”
“What kind of takeout were you thinking of?” Lyke Zhekova wondered.
If Peggy wanted to eat something, then Aunt Evans could prepare it for dinner.
“Grilled food.” Peggy Lewis said, “Sipping beer while eating grilled food and watching a comedy show is quite comfortable.”
Peggy Lewis continued with a bit of embarrassment, “That’s what I usually do.”
Lyke Zhekova could already picture it in his head.
Although he didn’t know what Peggy’s home looked like, he imagined her lounging on the couch, eating, drinking, and watching TV.
It’s mundane, but still warm and cosy.
However, it seemed that the grilled food that Peggy Lewis wanted to eat tonight couldn’t be arranged.
Lyke Zhekova thought somewhat regretfully.
“What kind of shows do you usually like watching?” Lyke Zhekova asked.
Neither Lyke Zhekova nor Peggy Lewis realized that their conversation had turned into Lyke Zhekova leading the topics.
A man who was usually not curious about women, now had countless questions he wanted to ask, things he wanted to understand.
“I usually like watching something light and funny.
Whether it’s TV shows, movies, or variety shows, I like to watch something relaxing that doesn’t require much thinking, just for fun,” Peggy Lewis said.
“After all, work pressure is already quite high.
During work, you have to be wary of traps in the workplace, and deal with clients,” Peggy Lewis said, “You have to be careful and it’s quite mentally taxing.”
In the workplace, it’s not like there aren’t any good colleagues.
It’s just that even one or two bad ones in a department can cause a lot of headaches.
They don’t know what these people are thinking, doing things that are harmful to others and don’t benefit themselves, yet they relish it.
They dig a pit for others, even if others fall into it, it does them no good, yet they persist in doing it.
If you dig a pit and someone falls into it, you get a promotion and a raise, Peggy Lewis could understand that.
But it brings absolutely no benefits, and they handle it like a palace intrigue…
is it fun?
“Not just at work, but also various other things in life.
I feel like life is never easy for anyone.
When you can catch a break, it’s better to relax than to watch something that makes you feel bad,”
Peggy Lewis laughed: “So, I don’t watch those serious dramas or films with tragic storylines or tear-jerkers.
They would just make me more frustrated, wouldn’t they?”
There aren’t many outlets for frustration in life.
But whenever you get a chance to rest, if you watch something depressing, it just makes you feel even worse.
Lyke Zhekova chuckled, “Do your colleagues often cause trouble at work?”
Peggy Lewis didn’t expect Lyke Zhekova to ask so specifically.
However, she also took it lightly: “Those work-related issues are common for everyone.
No company is completely peaceful, it’s completely normal, really nothing to complain about.”
“Once you start working, you have to face this.
Even if there weren’t any issues with colleagues, there would be issues with bosses, clients, and all kinds of unpleasant things,” Peggy Lewis said.
Lyke Zhekova nodded.
He had never experienced this since he is the boss.
However, he also has to face other troubles.
He also has his own pressures.
Thinking of this, he heard Peggy Lewis laughing and saying, “See, not only do I face trouble, but you must face it too.”
“Me?” Lyke Zhekova was surprised that Peggy Lewis would say this.
“I think compared to me, I have to deal with colleagues, bosses, and clients.
You might not have a boss, but you have the company’s performance and difficulties in business to deal with.”
Chapter 913: Sorry, forgive my offense_1 “Every position has its own worries,” said Peggy Lewis.
Ordinary employees often feel unbearably pressured at work.
But then again, people like Lyke Zhekova carry the livelihoods of many others.
This is a different kind of pressure.
The more you gain, the more pressure you bear.
Peggy Lewis is not an ignorant girl.
She has been competing in the workplace for many years, experiencing many things.
...
Even now, she remains a strong contender for the department head position.
The current head of their department is preparing for promotion.
The position left behind naturally has to be filled from within the department.
If it were assigned to an outsider, the current employees would surely object.
Moreover, the department head position isn’t a high-ranking one.
It’s not worth it for the company to hire externally, causing internal strife amongst the employees.
Also, there are capable workers within their department.
Like Peggy Lewis and one other, they are popular candidates.
The manager has nominating rights, and their choice will be seriously considered by the company.
After all, nobody knows her subordinates’ capabilities better than the department head.
So lately, the competition between Peggy Lewis and another colleague has been quite intense.
So lately, the challenges Peggy Lewis is facing have actually become greater than before.
And she knows, if she loses, she might not be able to stay in this department.
So she can’t afford to lose.
It’s not that she can’t switch jobs.
But she has her foundation here.
Even with job experience and past achievements, she can’t compete with the old employees in other companies.
So, Peggy Lewis keeps lifting her spirit up.
She has to win.
She can only win.
And once she actually becomes a manager, the pressure will naturally be greater than when she was an ordinary employee.
She will carry heavier responsibilities.
Many responsibilities, good or bad, she will have to bear.
But regardless, the fact that Peggy Lewis could become one of the strong contenders for promotion to head of department in just four years underscores her capability.
Because she has seen a lot and interacted with many, Peggy Lewis has her own insights.
She’s no longer those girls still in school or who have just graduated, who are still in the dreamy stage.
Believing they are the heroes in idol stories.
Meeting a rich and handsome man who is deeply in love with them at first sight.
If someone else meets Lyke Zhekova, they might really be overjoyed.
“What’s wrong?” Lyke Zhekova turns to ask Peggy Lewis.
Even though Peggy Lewis didn’t speak, Lyke Zhekova felt that her mood seemed a bit off.
Her body seemed very tense and she appeared a bit nervous.
Even though Peggy Lewis didn’t speak.
And even though it’s night, not as bright as daytime, Lyke Zhekova could still tell.
“No…nothing.” Peggy Lewis shook her head.
She thought that Lyke Zhekova was asking what she was thinking about.
Of course, Peggy Lewis couldn’t possibly tell Lyke Zhekova what she was thinking.
Even if she wasn’t coveting him, what she was thinking about was still a bit too embarrassing to speak about.
Coming back to her senses, she stopped thinking about this and that and returned to reality.
Just because she was thinking about a bunch of messy things just now, she was distracted and didn’t notice the scary atmosphere.
But now that she’s coming back to her senses, she starts to notice again.
Lyke Zhekova somehow got a hint as to why Peggy Lewis was nervous.
“Don’t be afraid,” Lyke Zhekova said.
It’s fortunate that the old mansion doesn’t have the habit of hanging red lanterns, otherwise it would be even scarier.
“I’m fine,” Peggy Lewis said.
“I’m sorry, forgive my impudence,” Lyke Zhekova said.
Before Peggy Lewis could react to what Lyke Zhekova meant, her shoulder was wrapped around by Lyke Zhekova.
His long arm wrapped around her from behind her shoulder, his hand grasping her shoulder firmly.
Peggy Lewis was still wearing her coat, so the warmth of Lyke Zhekova’s body didn’t penetrate through the thick garment.
But Peggy Lewis could still feel the firm grip of Lyke Zhekova’s hand.
He was holding her shoulder tightly, giving a very secure feeling.
So, the impudence Lyke Zhekova was referring to before, was this?
Lyke Zhekova is too much of a gentleman!
Even just touching a shoulder, he has to apologize first.
Of course, ordinary friends of different genders won’t casually hook shoulders in regular social interactions.
But occasionally for protection, or due to crowdedness that requires some guidance, there’s no need to apologize first.
Lyke Zhekova is really rare.
“I see you’re quite nervous,” Lyke Zhekova said, “Indeed, the arrangement of the old mansion is very retro.
Especially given that the mansion itself is indeed an ancient one.”
“The layout of the garden, when seen during the day, is charming and pleasing, but indeed slightly frightening at night,” Lyke Zhekova said, “Especially at night when the garden is very quiet, walking alone can indeed be quite scary.”
Peggy Lewis nodded in agreement.
Lyke Zhekova laughingly said, “We try to make the old mansion as bright as possible at night.
But because excessive lighting will cause light pollution, we’ve always been careful.
Even though there’s lighting, we haven’t made it overly bright.”
That’s why it’s somewhat scary with the dim and shadowy lighting.
Truth be told, feeling Lyke Zhekova’s arm around her shoulder, Peggy Lewis felt a lot more secure.
While walking, she was almost leaning against his side.
The distance between the two was very close.
Even though she hadn’t reached the point of being fully embraced by Lyke Zhekova, there was no distance left between the two.
Peggy Lewis could clearly feel that she was walking side by side with Lyke Zhekova.
Lyke Zhekova’s presence was very strong to begin with, and now that the two of them were close, his presence intensified.
Even her breathing carried the scent of his cedarwood mixed with lemon.
Peggy Lewis was in a daze, at this moment, where was the room to imagine ghosts that would scare her?
She just followed Lyke Zhekova in a daze.
She didn’t even remember how she went through this part of the path.
She only knew that, in her daze, at some unknown time, they had arrived at the main hall.
Only then did Lyke Zhekova release Peggy Lewis’s shoulder.
Suddenly, his hand felt a bit empty.
“We’ve arrived,” Lyke Zhekova said, his fingers twitching a bit, like he wanted to grasp something.
Lyke Zhekova’s gaze dropped, falling onto Peggy Lewis’s hand.
He thought that holding her hand and leading her should be suitable, right?
“Ah, oh.” Peggy Lewis nervously gained back her senses, her hands clasping each other.
She didn’t give Lyke Zhekova a chance to hold her.
Lyke Zhekova: “….”
The two of them entered the door together.
As soon as they entered, the child pounced into Peggy Lewis’s arms: “Godmother!”
After calling out, he poked his head out from Peggy Lewis’s embrace and called out to Lyke Zhekova: “Fourth Grandfather!”
Seeing the cunning smile on the child’s face.
Chapter 914: Fourth Uncle, I really don’t know anything!_1 Lyke Zhekova: “…”
He always feels like the little guy is doing it on purpose.
Did this little fellow figure something out?
Lyke Zhekova was puzzled.
He had merely driven Peggy Lewis home.
What could the little one have figured out from that?
Peggy Lewis hadn’t spent much time with the little guy during today’s competition.
Now they meet again, and Peggy Lewis didn’t want to let the little one go.
...
“Peggy, come in,” the Old Madam called out warmly.
“Old Madam,” Peggy greeted, “Old Master.”
The Old Madam put on a stern face and said, “Why are you still keeping things so formal?
Didn’t you just call me nicely on the phone?”
Peggy thought to herself that she was neglectful just now.
She regarded the old woman as an ordinary elderly person and naturally called her Grandmother, didn’t she?
It was a habit.
After hanging up the phone, however, Peggy realized something.
As the matriarch of the Zhekova family, it seemed inappropriate to call her Grandmother directly.
To her surprise, the Old Madam didn’t seem to mind at all.
Instead, she felt that Peggy was being too polite.
Following the Old Madam’s lead, Peggy politely responded: “Grandmother.”
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
Could the Old Madam actually blame him?
He didn’t think the Old Madam was that clever either.
Lyke Zhekova coughed casually.
Hoping that the Old Madam would remember that their age difference was slightly off.
The Old Madam didn’t seem to recall.
She just lead Peggy to come in and sit down.
Peggy greeted all the elders one by one, then turned her eyes to Cindy Clarke.
Among everyone here, she is most acquainted with Cindy.
When the Old Madam asked her to take a seat, Peggy naturally sat next to Cindy.
Lyke Zhekova glanced around and saw that there was no seat next to Peggy Lewis.
And even if there was, for him to just go and sit there would be somewhat abrupt, it would be strange.
At this point, except for Gabriel Zhekova’s family and the Third Old Master Zhekova, everyone was here.
The Old Master and Old Madam had not informed Gabriel Zhekova’s family at all.
They didn’t even like Cindy, let alone now with the addition of Peggy Lewis.
They surely wouldn’t like her either.
Having them come over would only ruin the atmosphere and serve no other purpose.
Thus, the Old Master and Old Madam kept quiet.
Besides, Gabriel Zhekova’s family didn’t even come to watch Cindy’s competition.
Why invite them for a meal separately?
It would just be a waste of time!
As for the Third Old Master Zhekova, his legs and feet were not in the best condition.
Otherwise, the Third Old Master Zhekova would have certainly come.
Lyke Zhekova thought for a while and finally sat across from Peggy Lewis.
As soon as he lifted his head, he could see her.
The position wasn’t bad.
It also wouldn’t interrupt Cindy and Peggy’s conversation.
Before Peggy could ask, Cindy said, “Don’t worry about me, I’m really fine now.”
“From the end of the competition till now, there have been so many people at home keeping me company and chatting with me about various topics, engaging me in conversation.
I have already moved on from the mood I was in during the competition,” Cindy told Peggy.
“Besides, Adrian wouldn’t just watch me get bullied.
He still needs to help me vent,” said Cindy, “The competition is over, the result can’t be changed.
Dwelling on the past will only upset me and worry everyone else who cares about me.”
“So, in my case, the incident is already over and it hasn’t affected me.
Even though I didn’t win any awards, the fans recognize me, and that’s enough,” said Cindy.
Peggy knew Cindy well, just as Cindy knew her.
From the looks of it, Cindy really doesn’t care about it anymore.
Peggy sighed with relief.
In the end, she felt that the decision to come over was the right one.
She felt assured only upon seeing Cindy with her own eyes.
Otherwise, she would have been so worried that she wouldn’t have been able to sleep well when she got home.
At this time, dinner was ready.
Aunt Evans came out to announce it, and everyone went to the dining room together.
The dining table was round, and the seating was naturally arranged according to seniority.
There was no deliberate arrangement, but everyone understood the unspoken arrangement.
As a guest and the junior among them, Peggy thought she’d just wait for everyone to sit down first, and then she would take the remaining seat.
After all, even if she couldn’t sit next to Cindy, she would probably end up sitting next to the little one.
Both were comfortable choices.
Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler sat to the left of the Old Master while his right side was occupied by the Old Madam.
To the right of the Old Madam sat Jayden Zhekova and Aria Evans.
Originally according to seniority, it should have been Lyke Zhekova sitting next to Aria Evans, then Samson Zhekova.
But Samson Zhekova was particularly insightful tonight and sat directly next to Aria Evans, causing Lyke Zhekova to sit down next to him.
As for Adrian Zhekova and Cindy, they naturally those seats next to Victoria Wheeler.
The little guy sat next to Cindy.
In this way, the empty seat was right between the little guy and Lyke Zhekova.
Upon seeing this, the Old Madam thought the seating arrangement was excellent.
Although nothing had been said in advance, everyone had a mutual understanding of where to sit.
Everyone’s mutual understanding was so strong that they placed Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis together.
The little guy was sitting there, obviously eager.
Cindy quietly nudged the little fellow as a warning not to be too naughty.
Thus, Peggy ended up sitting with Lyke Zhekova.
Aunt Evans prepared tonight’s dinner.
Aunt Evans’ cooking skills may not be comparable to Cindy, but they were great nonetheless.
Moreover, she had learned quite a bit from Cindy and had improved her cooking skills.
The Old Madam said to Peggy, “Don’t be a stranger with us, we’re all family.”
Peggy didn’t dwell on what the Old Madam said, she just smiled and agreed.
After a few bites, the Old Madam asked Peggy, “Peggy, how old are you this year?”
“I’m 27,” said Peggy.
The Old Madam calculated the numbers, and found Peggy’s age difference with Lyke Zhekova wasn’t large.
10 years wasn’t a problem.
However, the Old Madam still said: “Oh my, our Samson is 27 too, you two are of the same age, which month is your birthday?”
Upon hearing this, Lyke Zhekova wondered what was the Old Madam implying?
Was she suddenly trying to matchmake Samson Zhekova and Peggy Lewis now?
Lyke Zhekova instinctively glanced at Samson Zhekova.
Samson Zhekova was holding a milk bun.
The milk bun was very soft, when you tear it apart, there was hot, steamy sesame filling inside.
Just the smell was irresistibly delicious.
At the moment Lyke Zhekova looked over, Samson Zhekova had just stuffed half a milk bun into his mouth.
The warm sesame filling made him grunt.
Upon hearing what the Old Madam said and being looked at by Lyke Zhekova, Samson Zhekova was immediately overwhelmed.
He wanted to explain, but his mouth was full and the bun was still burning hot, he couldn’t speak.
Samson Zhekova was so flustered his face turned red.
“Eat slowly,” Lyke Zhekova picked up Samson’s cup of Coke and passed it over to him.
Samson Zhekova: “…”
He felt even more alarmed, didn’t he?
Since when has his Fourth Uncle been so considerate?!
Samson Zhekova took the Coke, but didn’t take a sip.
Coke with a milk bun, wouldn’t it be unbearably sweet?!
After finally swallowing half of the milk bun, he immediately shook his head at Lyke Zhekova and whispered, “Fourth Uncle, I really know nothing!”
Chapter 915: Sister, oh!_1 Samson Zhekova didn’t understand why the Old Madam was framing him like this!
Samson Zhekova was wronged!
With teary eyes, Samson Zhekova looked at Lyke Zhekova, who was disgusted by his act.
“Drink your Coke quickly.” Lyke Zhekova somehow felt like he had wronged Samson!
Who was Samson trying to fool with his play pity act!
Immediately, Lyke Zhekova got angry.
He despised Samson Zhekova.
...
At such an old age, he was still like a kid, fond of drinking Coke!
At this moment, watching the kid holding the glass with his two hands, drinking Coke with a beaming face.
Looking back at Samson, who listened to him and took a sip of Coke.
Instantly felt that Samson Zhekova’s mental age must be only five years old.
Then, Peggy Lewis said, “I was born in April.”
Upon hearing that, the Old Madam commented: “Oh, so you’re older than our Samson, who was born in June.”
When Samson Zhekova heard that, he eagerly called Peggy Lewis sister, bypassing Lyke Zhekova.
Peggy Lewis: “…”
Even though she didn’t mind the age difference.
But the thought of being addressed as ‘sister’ by a grown man like Samson Zhekova was unpleasant, right?
Moreover, she was just two months older than Samson Zhekova.
And yet, she was addressed as ‘sister’ by a grown man.
Could he dare to prefix ‘sister’ with ‘little’?
The feeling of being addressed as ‘sister’ and ‘little sister’ are completely different!
But at this point, Samson Zhekova did not care about Peggy Lewis’s feelings.
He just stared desperately at Lyke Zhekova.
He was really innocent!
But Lyke Zhekova couldn’t be bothered to entertain him anymore.
Now that the word ‘sister’ had been said, Lyke Zhekova thought, there wasn’t much left to talk about.
Then, the Old Madam asked again: “So, do you have a boyfriend?”
She had heard from Cindy Clarke that Peggy Lewis was still single.
But the Old Madam felt that she should ask once more and let Peggy Lewis answer herself, it would be better to have someone else hear it.
“Not yet,” replied Peggy Lewis.
The Old Madam wouldn’t be interested in her love life, right?
She hadn’t expected to be pushed towards marriage just by coming over for a meal.
At this, a thought flickered through Lyke Zhekova’s mind.
He had ignored this possibility before.
It didn’t even cross his mind, he had subconsciously assumed that Peggy Lewis was still single.
He was so preoccupied with calculating the age difference between him and Peggy Lewis that he forgot about such an essential matter.
If Peggy Lewis already had a boyfriend, that might present a real problem.
Luckily, she did not have a boyfriend.
Seeing Lyke Zhekova relax at this, the Old Madam thought, this kid, still pretending!
Today, luckily she, the Old Madam, was present.
Or else can Lyke Zhekova handle it all by himself?
That would be too difficult!
Peggy Lewis thought that the Old Madam, like other elders, would urge her to quickly get into a relationship and get married.
Who knew, she would hear the Old Madam say, out of the blue, “Being single is good.”
Peggy Lewis was surprised and looked at the Old Madam.
And the Madam smiled, “You are so beautiful and exceptional.
You must be cautious and not casually get married.”
“Marriage is a lifelong matter.
No one wants to be miserable after marriage.
Who would want to get divorced if they can live lovingly their whole life?” The Old Madam said, “Divorce might seem like a simple thing, but what causes divorce?
Isn’t it because one is disappointed in the marriage and in the partner?
That’s why people get divorced.”
“Who would want to prepare for a divorce before getting into marriage if they could live happily ever after?
That’s why it’s important to find someone you like, and won’t regret marrying.” The Old Madam said.
“Two people living together requires compromise.”
Chapter 916: Old Madam’s Tactics Begin!
_1 “Not every habit and hobby can be the same between a couple.” It’s not a clone, after all, “but it’s important to love each other enough to be willing to compromise and adjust.”
“The prerequisite for this is to like and love each other.
Without this premise, after marriage, life becomes a compromise.” Old Madam said, “But that’s life for the next several decades, constantly living a compromised life, which puts too much pressure on one another.”
“So don’t rush it.
You have to find the one you like.” the Old Madam said.
Peggy Lewis never imagined that the Old Madam could be so open-minded.
Samson Zhekova also looked at the Old Madam.
...
The Old Madam was speaking so well, why hadn’t she demanded the same from them?
Lyke Zhekova glanced at Samson Zhekova.
Old Madam, of course, was saying Peggy Lewis shouldn’t rush into marriage out of convenience.
A girl’s lifetime, how important!
So don’t rush and try to find someone you both like.
Though it is true that even if both people love each other, marriage might still be unfortunate.
But mostly, it’s indeed happiness.
Shouldn’t we touch love just because of a little possibility of misfortune?
“Absolutely,” the Old Madam continued, “This doesn’t mean you should just stand there, passively waiting.
How can love come if you wait in this way?”
The Old Madam boldly suggested, “You must actively go out and find it!”
“Some people say that the chances of meeting the person you genuinely love in this life are slim, and most people are just settling.
But I don’t agree with that,” said the Old Madam.
“If you just stay put and don’t look, how could you meet?
The probability of encountering true love is not small.
The small chance is passively standing in place, allowing true love to find you.”
“However, the world is too vast, and the possibility of a chance meeting while searching aimlessly is indeed too small,” said the Old Madam.
Peggy Lewis blinked, isn’t the probability still low?
Listen to what the Old Madam said; “So, it’s better to pay more attention to the people around you.”
Samson Zhekova: “…”
Wow!
It’s starting!
It’s starting!
The Old Madam’s routine is starting!
He knew it, the Old Madam had just said so much, but her attitude was so different from when she was urging them to get married.
This wasn’t the Old Madam’s character.
She was waiting for it here!
As the Old Madam said to Peggy to pay more attention to the people around her, Samson Zhekova’s gaze slowly slipped from Peggy’s face to Lyke Zhekova’s.
Obviously, the Old Madam was hinting at Lyke Zhekova.
However, Peggy didn’t think about considering Lyke Zhekova at all.
She responded to the Old Madam, “You’re right, I should get out more and not be so resistant to making new friends.”
She didn’t have the nerve to say it, but she looked at appearances.
So, the blind dates arranged by her family got dismissed outright due to their looks.
If she talked about this, she was afraid the Old Madam would look down on her.
“If there was someone nearby that I had feelings for, we would have already been together,” said Peggy Lewis, “but there isn’t.”
Her colleagues, the people she deals with at work, going back to school days.
Actually, she has been in contact with quite a few men.
But she just doesn’t feel that way; it just doesn’t feel right.
During her school days, there were many male students around.
But there were surprisingly no moments that made her heart flutter.
After graduation, they all went to work, and classmates seldom gathered.
In the end, they gradually lost contact.
As for the colleagues she met at work, there was really none she liked, just ordinary friends.
The longer they were around each other, the more familiar they became, the less likely there would suddenly be any signals of a heartbeat.
So, according to the Old Madam, she should start looking for someone among the people around her.
Peggy thought for a long time, and many faces passed through her mind.
But, strangely, none were to her liking.
They were all too familiar, and she had never thought about it from a different perspective.
Hearing this, the Old Madam became anxious.
Isn’t Lyke Zhekova right next to Peggy?
How could she not meet anyone she likes?
Although Lyke is a bit older, right?
But a ten-year gap isn’t too outrageous, right?
Why didn’t Peggy consider Lyke?
However, it was a little comforting to hear from Peggy that she didn’t have any feelings for the men around her.
At least for now, Lyke didn’t have any competition.
They didn’t have to worry about anyone else swooping in and stealing Peggy’s heart away.
But they couldn’t be too certain about this.
What if something unexpected happened?
The Old Madam thought for a moment and then asked, “Then, around you, hasn’t anyone shown interest in you?”
Peggy thought for a while and said, “Not really.”
“The colleagues in our company, either they are younger than me.” Peggy didn’t dare to say that those slightly younger male colleagues were pretentious.
At a young age, they always pointed out this and that, saying that today’s girls are like this and that.
Even though they weren’t much themselves, they acted like they had seen through all women, felt that women weren’t good here and there, seemed worthless.
Forget about them loving to find younger women; even if there were those who liked older women, Peggy wouldn’t be interested.
“As for those who are about my age or a little older, they either have girlfriends or are already married,” said Peggy.
So, in fact, her social circle is not extensive.
It’s just that area.
The people she’s in contact with are just that many.
It’s not that she deliberately doesn’t look for love; it’s just that there are really no suitable ones around.
Old Madam breathed a sigh of relief.
“That’s true, if there was someone suitable around, you would have had a boyfriend already.” Could Lyke be so lucky now?
Old Madam felt that Lyke’s luck was fantastic.
If he couldn’t get out of being single this way, it would truly be a travesty.
“My point is, since there is no one suitable among those you already know, you should consider the new ones you meet.
They might be your destiny.” laughed the Old Madam.
Peggy blinked, a bit dumbfounded.
Was the Old Madam suggesting that she should make new friends?
In reality, Peggy only really had one personal friend, Cindy Clarke.
Also, because of her busy work, she didn’t have much personal time to socialize.
The circle of friends that she interacted with was still within her work circle.
If she really had to name new people she met, she only met the Zhekova family today.
Even if she had just met the Zhekova family, Peggy originally had no intention of getting to know them.
Even if she was Cindy Clarke’s best friend, she never planned to have much of a relationship with Cindy’s in-laws.
The original relationship was far removed.
Moreover, the Zhekova family was a bit special, and she didn’t have any particular thoughts about them.
Who could have known that reality would be so magical?
Chapter 917: The Melon Has Hit Himself_1 “She was surprisingly sitting at the Zhekova family dinner table, eating with everyone.
All the new people she had met were right there.
Peggy Lewis blinked.
Could it be that the Old Madam was hinting her to choose from them?
Peggy Lewis was frightened by her own thoughts!
She was really bold!
Why was she thinking in this direction?
...
The Old Madam definitely didn’t mean that.
Even if there was no distinction of classes, it wasn’t as if she would be introduced into the Zhekova family just because she was unmarried.
Such thought was indeed too ground-rooted!
Looking around at the dining table, those the same age as her were Adrian Zhekova and Samson Zhekova.
Adrian Zhekova was married so definitely not him.
Could the Old Madam be hinting at Samson Zhekova?
Impossible!
She must be overthinking!
Peggy Lewis thought to herself.
She completely ruled out Lyke Zhekova.
He was an elder after all!
Even if Lyke Zhekova insisted that the age gap wasn’t big, he was still older.
Lyke Zhekova was extremely touchy about the age issue, Peggy Lewis guessed, probably because he couldn’t help it at home.
Despite being called Fourth Uncle, he could only accept it.
But she didn’t have any relationship with him, it was not appropriate for her to still call him Uncle at her age.
As for anything else, Peggy Lewis hadn’t really thought it through.
Lyke Zhekova happened to see Peggy Lewis’ eyes, filled with uncertainty, land on Samson Zhekova for quite a few seconds before hurriedly looking away.
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
Could it be that she thought that the Old Madam wanted to match her with Samson Zhekova?
What’s with that look!
Why didn’t she glance at him?
He didn’t like her, either.
After all, they had just met today.
He wasn’t the kind of person to fall in love at first sight.
It was just that he felt he wasn’t that old either.
Their ages were almost the same.
They were all young people, so why did Peggy Lewis only look at Samson Zhekova and not him?
Where was he not suitable?
Anyway, the Old Madam had found out all she needed to know about Peggy Lewis.
Peggy Lewis was single and had no boyfriend.
She didn’t have anyone she liked and no one seemed to be pursuing her.
Therefore, the Old Madam felt relieved and asked, “By the way, what do your parents do?”
“My father is a high school teacher, my mother is a junior high school teacher,” Peggy Lewis said.
“They are both teachers,” the Old Madam nodded repeatedly.
“That’s really good.”
“So when I was in elementary school, it was okay.
In junior high, my mother was there, she’s a junior high English teacher.
When I went to High school, my father was there, he’s a high school Math teacher,” Peggy Lewis recalled the past with great discomfort.
“I went to the same schools where they worked for junior and high school, all the teachers were their colleagues.
They knew exactly where my grades dropped, what I learned was not solid, how I performed in class, when I daydreamed, they knew everything.”
“But there’s also a benefit to it.
My academic performance was stable and I didn’t get the chance to slack off,” the Old Madam wanted to ask if Peggy Lewis ever had a puppy love relationship.
She didn’t mean anything else by asking, she was merely gossiping.
But Lyke Zhekova was different.
He really wanted to know.
Thinking about the purest and most intense love of boys and girls, most of which happens during student years, Lyke Zhekova’s heart couldn’t help but feel impatient, agitated and restless.
By the time Peggy Lewis was in junior high, he had already graduated from college.
When Peggy Lewis was in high school, he was already in charge of the company.
There was no way they crossed paths.
During Peggy Lewis’ young years, he didn’t know which boy had taken advantage of her.
When Lyke Zhekova thought about this, he sullenly asked, “At that time, under your parents’ watchful eyes, you surely couldn’t have puppy love, right?”
Peggy Lewis blushed with embarrassment and said, “I…”
Peggy Lewis was too shy to say it, but Cindy Clarke had already figured out what Lyke Zhekova was implying.
She laughed and said, “Peggy has been single since birth, and has been Solo until now.”
“She has never dated,” Cindy Clarke said.
Peggy Lewis sneakily reached out her arm and poked Cindy Clarke behind the kid.
Not having any dating experience wasn’t something good!
How embarrassing it was to be said loudly!
Peggy Lewis had to say, “During junior and high school, my parents were always around, along with all the teachers and school leaders.
All were monitoring me.
I wouldn’t dare to date.”
“At that time, my parents were focusing on my academic scores, my study pressures were great, so I didn’t have the mood to date,” Peggy Lewis said.
“Back then, I was known as the nerd in our class.”
“Did any boy fancy you?” Lyke Zhekova asked again.
“I was a nerd, when you were in school, which boy would like a nerd?” Peggy Lewis counter-questioned.
Lyke Zhekova raised his eyebrows and laughed, “When I was in school, there were no nerds.”
Peggy Lewis remembered, they all studied at Jetaime Academy.
The kid had also told her about Jetaime Academy.
In there, simply good academic performance was of no use.
You needed to be quick-witted, naturally there wouldn’t be any nerds.
“Plus, the whole school knew I was the child of teachers, who would dare to like me?” Peggy Lewis said.
At that time, she was like a live mine in her class, no one dared to touch her.
Even if someone was on good terms with her, they would be accused of trying to please her and the teachers.
During the school days, children could have surprisingly enormous malice.
“What about college?” Lyke Zhekova asked again.
Cindy Clarke watched from the side, Lyke Zhekova was being too obvious!
Peggy Lewis, however, noticed nothing wrong and said, “In college, I didn’t meet anyone I liked.”
She was too shy to say, she judged people on their looks!
In college, to be honest, the entire school didn’t have many handsome boys.
Was it like an idol drama, where the campus hunk attracted all the attention?
Even if there were handsome guys, they already had girlfriends.
Most of them had started dating since high school.
She had lost at the starting line!
Cindy Clarke was enjoying the gossip of Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis.
When she heard Adrian Zhekova ask her, “Speaking of which, it reminded me.”
Cindy Clarke looked suspiciously across, only to hear Adrian Zhekova ask, “I’ve never asked you either, have you dated when you were in school?”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
Heavens!
She never expected this gossip to come around to her.
“No.” Cindy Clarke said.
“When I was in junior and high school, I was entirely focused on studying well, getting scholarship, and being able to attend the school I wanted to.
When I was in high school, I was determined to leave Nork City.”
“I knew that my mom might not be willing to pay my college tuition, so I had to get a college scholarship.
At that time, the pressure was terrifying, but it was also a kind of motivation.
How could I have the mood for puppy love?”
“Besides, Wendy Clarke is from the same school as me, although she is older, but we are in the same school, if anything happened, we would know it clearly.” Cindy Clarke said.
“If I really had puppy love, she would certainly go back and tell.”
Chapter 918: Could Fourth Grandfather be a Scumbag Man?_1 “If my parents knew, do you think they’d spare me?” Cindy Clarke laughed, “In primary school, I simply didn’t understand it, and in junior and senior high school, I neither had the time nor the courage.”
Adrian Zhekova almost asked, ‘What if you did have the time and the nerve?’
However, he chose not to voice the question.
Because it was all hypothetical.
Back then, Cindy had neither the time nor the courage.
There was no need to speculate about things that had already happened.
However, Adrian thought of Ian Morris, who had admired Cindy in high school but hadn’t confessed until recently.
If it weren’t for that, he might not have had his chance with her.
With that, Adrian Zhekova let out a deep breath of relief.
...
Indeed, his connection with Cindy was stronger.
A fate arranged by the heavens!
At that moment, he heard Cindy say: “As for university, you know.”
She dropped out during her first year and didn’t continue after that.
Working while pregnant, there was no time to think about romantic fantasies.
While Cindy was whispering to Adrian, no one else could clearly hear what they were saying.
Lyke Zhekova was aware that Peggy Lewis had never been in a relationship before.
So, he didn’t have to ponder over what the young man who dated a teenage Peggy would have looked like.
Lyke Zhekova subtly glanced at Peggy Lewis.
He wondered what Peggy might have looked like during her teenage years.
Of course, Peggy Lewis is still young and very beautiful.
So beautiful that she would stand out in any crowd.
Moreover, given her current economic status, she has the means to maintain her exquisite appearance.
Her complexion features delicate and glowing skin.
Despite her minimal makeup, she looks stunning.
Every inch of her is detailed and refined.
Lyke Zhekova was increasingly curious to see what Peggy looked like during her school days, before she started doing her makeup.
Was she the naive and even somewhat silly type?
At the dinner table, the Old Madam, taking advantage of her seniority, began to inquire about the situation of Peggy’s family.
From her parents’ jobs to the family composition.
Upon hearing that Peggy had returned to her hometown for the New Year, she asked where her hometown was.
Thus, she got some insights into Peggy’s circumstances.
The Old Madam also wanted to figure out what type of boy Peggy is interested in.
However, afraid that it would be too obvious, she somehow managed to refrain from asking.
“You and Cindy are good friends, and Cindy always mentions you in front of us,” the Old Madam said.
“Cindy has said that during her toughest times, you were always by her side.”
“When she was pregnant, gave birth to Morgan, arranged his birth certificate, and settled his residence, you were the one who helped secure all those affairs,” the Old Madam added.
The Old Madam knew that these things appeared trivial, but would be impossible to sort out without some connections, especially in Belfard.
This was possible thanks to Peggy’s extensive social network as a hair-stylist.
“When Cindy was taking care of Morgan on her own and was overwhelmed, you were the one who was helping her,” the Old Madam added.
Upon hearing this, Peggy began to feel anxious.
What did the Old Madam mean by that?
Was it because she had helped Cindy in the past, so the Old Madam wanted to give her some kind of material reward as an expression of gratitude?
Peggy swallowed nervously, becoming increasingly tense.
Really, it’s not necessary!
She and Cindy are friends.
If she were to be rewarded with money or some goods, wouldn’t that imply that after receiving these things, she should decrease her interactions with Cindy?
Without realizing it, Peggy began to imagine herself in a rejected Cinderella story laden with family prejudice.
However, she never expected the Old Madam to say, “You and Cindy are such good friends.
I heard from Cindy that her one truly good friend is you.”
Upon hearing this, Peggy was deeply moved.
She immediately looked at Cindy, her eyes sparkling with emotion.
She knew that, even after Cindy got married, she wouldn’t abandon her friend.
The Old Madam then added, “So, make sure you visit frequently in the future!”
Peggy was stunned.
So this is what the Old Madam meant?
“Don’t consider us strangers,” the Old Madam laughed as she spoke.
“Make sure to come and hang around often.”
“Like today when you were worried about Cindy, but because we were present, you hesitated to tag along,” the Old Madam was able to understand Peggy’s concerns.
“Actually, you don’t need to be so formal with us,” the Old Madam said, “You’re Cindy’s friend, so in my eyes, you’re like one of our younger generation, like a half-child of the Zhekova Family.”
Peggy hadn’t expected the Old Madam to say this.
If others heard that she had easily become a semi-member of the Zhekova Family, wouldn’t they be envious to death?
On the side, Lyke Zhekova had his heart in his mouth.
He feared that the Old Madam would say Peggy was a half-child of Maverick Zhekova.
Fortunately, the Old Madam’s saneness was still intact, and she did not say this.
Peggy nodded, whether she would come or not, under such circumstances, she could only agree.
Perhaps the Old Madam was just being polite.
Given their advanced age, and rarely going out much, it was evident that the elderly couple preferred not to deal with outsiders much.
If she were to visit frequently, it was likely she would disturb them.
However, since the Old Madam had personally asked, she acquiesced readily.
How could the Old Madam not see that?
She told Peggy: “I’m not just being polite, I meant what I said.”
“When you have time, come and visit.
If you happen to bump into a situation like today, and I don’t mean anything unpleasant,” the Old Madam added with a laugh.
“For instance, when we all meet, you should join us!”
“Even if Cindy doesn’t come on normal days, you should still come over more often.
Most of the time, Morgan is at the family mansion, and he often mentions you,” the Old Madam said.
Lyke Zhekova chimed in, “During the New Year, I also heard Morgan talking about you.”
The little guy thought for a moment, but couldn’t remember when he had mentioned his godmother to his Fourth Grandfather?
It seemed they never had that chance!
Usually, the topic would only come up during conversations.
But, he and Lyke Zhekova hadn’t had a chance to even talk about Peggy.
The little guy looked at Lyke Zhekova accusingly.
How could he tell lies!
The little guy discreetly tugged at Cindy.
Cindy looked down at him.
The little guy then beckoned Cindy to lower her head.
Cindy leaned in towards the little guy.
Bending over close to Cindy’s ear, he whispered, “Cindy, do you think Fourth Grandfather could be one of those scumbag men?”
Cindy: “…”
Cindy’s mouth twitched as she said in a low voice, “Don’t say such nonsense, what makes you think so?”
The little guy said softly, “I never mentioned Peggy to Fourth Grandfather.
So, isn’t he deceiving her by saying that?”
“He hasn’t even started dating her yet, and he’s already deceiving her.
Doesn’t that make him a scumbag?” the little guy said.
Cindy: “…”
At that, Cindy was so shocked that even the corner of her eyes twitched.
Chapter 919: You Don’t Have Much Time Left_1 Cindy Clarke quickly glanced at Lyke Zhekova, grateful that he had not overheard the conversation.
However, she wasn’t certain if Peggy Lewis, seated next to the youngster, had eavesdropped or not.
Fortunately, Peggy Lewis did not catch any of it.
The little one’s whisper to Cindy Clarke was too inaudible for anyone to overhear.
To ensure Peggy Lewis didn’t hear a word, they spoke in hushed voices.
Cindy Clarke, whispering, said, “Your Fourth Grandfather was merely agreeing with what your Great Grandmother said in order to encourage your Godmother to visit more often.”
The little one nodded his head in understanding and said, “Oh, are they trying to manipulate Godmother?”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
“Wouldn’t that count as deceiving Godmother?” the youngster asked again.
Not knowing what else to say, Cindy reluctantly confessed, “Actually, your dad did the same thing to us.”
And it wasn’t just her; both of them had been manipulated by the same tactic.
...
The youngster had indeed been tricked by his father, Adrian Zhekova, on several occasions.
The little one: “…”
He didn’t know how to respond anymore.
Cindy Clarke nudged the youngster, saying, “Why don’t you help your Fourth Grandfather, huh?”
“Even though your Godmother could become your Fourth Grandmother if she marries him, at least you’ll get to see her at least once a week, if not every day.” Cindy said.
“Moreover, during every family gathering, your Godmother will surely come.” Cindy continued, “Even before she marries your Fourth Grandfather, she would still have a perfect reason to come and play with you regularly.”
“Otherwise, how could she feel comfortable visiting this often?” Cindy whispered into the youngster’s ear.
Giving it some thought, the little one realized she was speaking the truth.
Her statements were indeed valid.
“So, you need to help your Fourth Grandfather.” suggested Cindy Clarke.
To her surprise, the youngster was a very convincing helper.
Once the little one made up his mind, he wouldn’t hesitate to take action.
No procrastination whatsoever.
Thus, he spoke to Peggy Lewis: “Yes, indeed!”
“Sometimes Daddy has to work long hours, and only Cindy and I can come.
If Godmother were here too, that would be great!” the little one chimed in.
Peggy Lewis nodded, “Fine, I’ll come to find you when I have free time.”
The youngster nodded back with delight.
And before they knew it, the dinner came to an end.
Peggy Lewis couldn’t overstay her welcome.
This time, without the Old Madam saying anything, Lyke Zhekova took the initiative to say, “I’ll take you back.”
Peggy Lewis knew that no matter how much she refused, it would be futile.
Perhaps due to the education Lyke Zhekova received in the Zhekova family, he wouldn’t let a lady go back alone at night.
That’s what Peggy Lewis thought.
Peggy Lewis didn’t refuse, and at the same time, the Old Madam said, “That’s right, let Lyke take you back.”
Lyke Zhekova put on his coat and went to fetch Peggy Lewis’ coat.
Just as Peggy Lewis was about to take it from him, Lyke Zhekova moved behind her.
Preparing to help her put on the coat, like a true gentleman.
‘What kind of upbringing did the Zhekova family provide?’
Astonished, Peggy Lewis felt her heart flutter.
Her entire body went stiff from the tension.
Nobody had ever treated her this way before.
‘This scene is straight out of a soap opera!’
Especially when Lyke Zhekova looked so handsome.
As she nervously raised her arms to put on the coat, her every move was rigid.
The tension was palpable.
Lyke Zhekova helped her put on the coat.
Peggy Lewis thought that was the end of it.
However, to her surprise, Lyke indicated he wanted to button her coat and tie the belt around her waist.
As Lyke Zhekova lightly adjusted her coat and proceeded to button it,
Peggy Lewis hastily held on to her coat saying, “I can do it myself.”
If she allowed Lyke to do this too, it would be too much.
Lyke Zhekova just smiled and did not insist further.
But, he just stood there, hinting that he intended to watch Peggy button up her coat.
Peggy Lewis: “…”
Under Lyke Zhekova’s attentive gaze, her hands shook with nerves.
Her rising anxiety.
It stopped her from even managing the simplest task of fastening a button.
Frustrated, she tossed it aside.
She just crossed over her coat and tied the belt around her waist.
Done.
Meanwhile, Samson Zhekova had observed everything in detail.
He thought to himself, ‘Any normal person would feel anxious under Lyke’s intense gaze.’
“You animal!” Samson Zhekova silently told Adrian Zhekova.
How on earth did Lyke manage to remain single with this level of expertise?
Watching Lyke’s method makes it evident he’s ready to abandon his bachelorhood, Samson noted jealousy.
So, he stealthily sidled up to the Old Madam.
With a cunning smile, he whispered to the Old Madam, “Second Grandmother, just look at Fourth Uncle.
He seems to know what he’s doing!”
The Old Madam approvingly nodded, “Who would have thought, your Fourth Uncle does know how to be decisive when the time calls for it.”
Look at the way he’s got the girl’s full attention.
He seems to be pushing it a bit too far though!
Even though the Old Madam thought so, the grin never left her face.
Samson said up front, “If Fourth Uncle is so skilled, why haven’t we seen him succeed with a woman before?”
The Old Madam: “…..”
He had a point!
If he’s this slick, how can he still be single at the age of 37?
This implies that he was intentionally single before!
And all this while he’s been pretending to be annoyed by women and acting like a stoic man.
Isn’t he good at manipulating though?
The Old Madam was angry at heart, yet she held back because Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis were still in the throes of romance.
The Old Madam took a few deep breaths to calm herself down before talking to Samson again, “What does this mean?
It only goes to show, your Fourth Uncle hadn’t met anyone he truly liked before.”
“Look, now that he’s met a girl he’s fond of, the moves he’s making are fast and precise.
Don’t they all seem calculated?” the Old Madam added.
“And what else does this tell us?” the Old Madam questioned again.
Samson blinked, unsure about what else it could imply.
“This also suggests that opportunities come to those who are prepared.” the Old Madam enlightened Samson, “Your Fourth Uncle has his tricks up his sleeve, always prepared, waiting for the right girl to appear to make his move.”
Samson: “…”
The Old Madam looked at Samson: “So, you need to hurry up.”
“Even if the girl you like hasn’t appeared yet, you must make preparations so that when she does, you are ready.” the Old Madam advised.
Samson: “…”
“Furthermore.” the Old Madam added.
Suddenly, Samson had a bad feeling.
What else could there be?
“Your time is running out.” the Old Madam declared, “Once your Fourth Uncle’s matter is resolved, it will be your turn.”
“Did you think, I could allow you to keep being this disillusioned?” the Old Madam chided.
Samson: “…”
No…
Was he considered disillusioned just because he was still single?
While they were talking, Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis had already walked up to the doorway, bidding farewell to the rest.
The youngster was the first to wave his hand: “Goodbye Fourth Grandfather, goodbye Godmother.”
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
He looked at the youngster.
Chapter 920: Our Morgan Zhekova’s Sacrifice is Too Great_1 Just earlier at dinner, the little one was so cooperative.
Lyke Zhekova felt like the kid must have caught on to something.
So now, calling Fourth Grandfather and Godmother, must be intentional, right?
Lyke Zhekova glanced towards the little one.
The kid still looked innocent and harmless as ever.
Even when Lyke Zhekova looked his way, the kid blinked, appearing utterly adorable and clueless.
...
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
Adrian Zhekova’s kid, how naive could he be!
It’s impossible!
The kid’s response only reassured Lyke Zhekova that the actions were indeed intentional.
But right now, Lyke Zhekova had no time to deal with the kid, he left with Peggy Lewis.
After Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis left, Cindy Clarke gently scratched the kid’s nose, “Naughty!”
“If Godmother truly ends up with Fourth Grandfather, I won’t be able to call her Godmother for much longer!” The kid felt quite wronged, “So I am making the most while I still can!”
Upon hearing this, Old Madam’s heart ached.
She quickly pulled the kid into her arms saying affectionately, “Oh my, for your Fourth Grandfather’s life-long happiness, our little Morgan’s sacrifice is too great.”
“Exactly.” The kid nodded in complete agreement.
Adrian Zhekova: “…”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
Samson Zhekova: “…”
***
Over here, Lyke Zhekova took Peggy Lewis home.
Lyke Zhekova had already learned Peggy Lewis’s home address.
Just given the current situation, he drove her home without having to use a GPS.
Peggy Lewis remarked in surprise, “Just from that little trip earlier, you’ve already memorized the route?
You’re just too incredible.”
“I do have a pretty good memory.” Lyke Zhekova responded.
Peggy Lewis expressed her admiration, “That’s not just ‘pretty good’!
Even Belfard’s taxi drivers, spending years navigating through Belfard’s streets and alleys can’t do the same without a GPS.”
Belfard’s cityscape changes rapidly.
With roads constantly expanding and being repaired.
Overpasses are crisscrossed and getting taller and taller.
The roadways are becoming more and more complex.
Nowadays, there aren’t many people who drive without using a GPS.
“Such a small thing and see how you praise it.” Lyke Zhekova said with a teasing smile on his face, “I’m about to grow conceited from so much praise.”
“But it really is a remarkable feat.” Peggy Lewis said, “Especially at night when it’s so dark and unlike the daytime.
To be able to remember the route with just one journey at night is all the more impressive.”
“Your memory is really too incredible.” Peggy Lewis stated.
Just with this kind of memory, Lyke Zhekova would’ve had an easier time studying than others and would learn faster.
He would definitely be known as a genius or at the very least, the legendary top-of-the-class.
Upon hearing this, Lyke Zhekova couldn’t resist turning to look at Peggy Lewis.
She was all smiles.
Lyke Zhekova thought that it was truly rare to find someone like Peggy Lewis who could praise others with such sincerity without coming off as hypocritical, and it felt really good to hear.
This time, the security guard at Peggy Lewis’s residence recognized Lyke Zhekova’s car and license plate.
Although he didn’t understand why they had returned only to leave again.
He didn’t stop them and let them through right away.
Lyke Zhekova thought to himself, there really is something different about where Peggy Lewis lives.
Even the security guard seemed exceptionally astute.
Once again, Lyke Zhekova parked his car downstairs at Peggy Lewis’s building.
He got out of the car and helped Peggy Lewis out.