Ch. 111..120

Chapter 111

Chapter 111 The Birthday Of Uncle Curtis

“I knew it! I can recognize his tan skin anywhere!” Kristie ranted. “D*mn it. That despicable vixen is not only two timing but also seducing a man younger than her!”

Kristie couldn’t be more upset. That stupid Gray Wolf must be blind. Does he even know what a slut his girlfriend is? And yet, he thinks that she’s pretty? Bullsh*t! She’s nothing compared to me!

The longer Kristie stared at their similarly colored clothes, the more unsettled she became.

Coincidentally, a man with a chequered jacket tied to his waist walked past her. Grabbing onto him, Kristie pulled off his jacket and stuffed some money into his hands.

“I’m buying this!”

The man was rendered speechless by her sudden action.

Thereafter, Kristie hid behind a pillar to bide her time. It wasn’t until Rayna left for the ladies that she strutted gloriously up to James.

James, who was in the midst of listening to the sales pitch, was shocked to see the salesperson being shoved aside.

Arms on hips, Kristie glared at him. “D*mn you, Gray Wolf. Why aren’t you answering my calls?”

“I’ve already quit and am no longer your bodyguard, so why should I take your calls?” Annoyed by the interruption, James nudged her aside to allow the salesperson to continue.

What luck! How did I end up running into her in a place like this?

Naturally, the salesperson didn’t dare proceed as she cordially greeted Kristie, “Ms. Winton.”

Ignoring the greeting, Kristie desperately clung to James. “Why did you quit? Did I allow it? If Mr. Tylinski didn’t pay you enough, I could make up for it!”

James suppressed the anger within him. “This isn’t about money. I quit because I had something else to do.”

“I don’t care. You’re not allowed to quit!” Stomping her feet, Kristie scoffed, “Ever since you left, there’s no one to cook for me. I feel moody all the time and can’t even focus during filming.”

“In that case, why don’t you just starve yourself to death?”

“It would be a shame for someone as pretty as me to die like that. I endeavor to live my life to its fullest potential!”

The salesperson, who had tugged her head between her shoulders, was dumbfounded.

The common knowledge that Kristie was the apple of Curtis’ eye deterred anyone from getting into an argument with her. Therefore, the salesperson was shocked by the verbal sparring that unfolded before her eyes.

Afraid that she would be caught in the crossfire, the salesperson prepared to leave discreetly. However, she had barely moved her feet when Kristie’s voice rang out above her. “Which unit is he looking at?”

Pointing at the scale model, the salesperson meekly answered, “One of the high-end residential areas along Mayfair Street.”

“How much does it cost?”

“Nine million eight hundred and sixty thousand.”

Pulling out her purse, Kristie retrieved a bank card and handed it to the salesperson. With a slight raise of her chin, she declared proudly, “Swipe this and send the purchase agreement to my condominium tomorrow.”

When it dawned upon him what was going on, James grabbed her hand. “What are you doing?”

“Buying you the house!” Kristie added, “You like the unit, don’t you? I’m buying it for you.”

“I can pay for it myself. I don’t need you to do this!” The sullen look on his face was evidence that he was humiliated by her gesture. “Take back your card.”

When she failed to struggle free from his grasp, Kristie used her other hand to pass her card to the salesperson as she barked, “What are you still standing there for? Get it done at once!”

Upon receiving the card, the salesperson swiftly slipped away.

Just like a vixen, the smug-looking Kristie even stuck out her tongue at James. “Now that you owe me nine million eight hundred and sixty thousand, you have to work as my bodyguard to pay off the debt. Otherwise, I’m going to sue you for it!”

James was stumped for words, for this was the first time in his life he encountered such an unreasonable girl.

Irritated by the sight of his short-sleeve shirt, Kristie shoved the jacket in his direction. “That shirt is ugly. Put this on!”

“Why should I? It isn’t dirty.”

Without any hesitation, Kristie grabbed the orange juice a passerby was holding. No sooner had she stuffed some cash over than she spilled the drink over James’ shirt. “It is now.”

F*ck!

James had no choice but to give in.

After he changed into the chequered shirt in a quiet corner, the satisfied Kristie stuffed her bag into his arms. “Let’s go. I still have an advertisement to film!”

“Go ahead. I’m waiting for someone.”

“I don’t care!” Kristie snapped. The last person she wanted to see was Rayna. Grabbing James by his sleeve, she began to tug him along. “Just send her a message.”

Unable to hit nor scold Kristie, James resigned himself to obeying her and dropped Rayna a message.

After Kristie and he left the building, Rayna emerged from the ladies to feel her phone vibrate. Upon checking it, she saw James’ message informing her that something had come up in school.

Without giving the matter too much thought, she returned to the salesperson and instructed, “I’ll take the unit you showed us just now. Here, swipe this card.”

The salesperson was dumbfounded.

What am I supposed to say? Should I tell her that the unit she had her eye on was bought by Ms. Winton and presented to her boyfriend? There’s no way those words are going to leave my mouth!

Noticing the awkward expression on the salesperson’s face, she asked, “Has it already been sold?”

“Yes…”

“What a shame. I liked it very much.” The disappointed Rayna regretted not buying it. Nevertheless, she knew she would put James under a lot of pressure by doing so.

After informing the salesperson that it was no big deal, she circled around the scale model to check out the other developments. Throughout the entire time Rayna was there, the salesperson left what had transpired unsaid, despite the urge to do so.

“Ms. Garland.”

While she was scrutinizing the units, a sudden voice took her by surprise.

Turning around, she was greeted by the sight of the casually dressed Curtis. Compared to how he looked at work, he appeared more relaxed but still stood out amongst the crowd.

Sneaking a glance at the scale model behind Rayna, Curtis asked, “Are you in the market for a property?”

“Mmm-hmm, I want to get my mom a better place.” Rayna nodded. “Are you here for the same reason, Mr. Faymon?”

After a quick exchange with the salesperson beside him and sending him on his way, Curtis explained, “I’m arranging accommodation for a few of my friends who are coming back here.”

Rayna was rendered speechless.

That’s why you’re buying property? How extravagant!

Soon, the salesperson returned with a layout plan which Curtis handed to Rayna. “This development belongs to Faymon Group, so take your pick, Ms. Garland. If there’s a unit you fancy, it will be my gift to you.”

“No, no, a discount is good enough. I can’t accept a gift like that,” the shocked Rayna frantically declined upon realizing that it was a Faymon Group project. “I don’t want to be too indebted to you. It makes me feel bad.”

Breaking into a rare smile, Curtis replied warmly, “Ms. Garland, not only have you been a great help to me recently, but you also turned down the three wishes I granted you. Therefore, it’s I who owe you, and giving you a gift is the least I can do.”

“There’s no such thing. I’m just carrying out my duties as an employee of Faymon Group,” Rayna explained. “If you’re adamant about giving it as a gift, I would rather not purchase a unit here.”

“Fine, a discount it is.” Curtis didn’t insist.

After dismissing the salesperson, he accompanied Rayna attentively to survey the units that caught her eye on the scale model.

Sensing the good mood he was in, Rayna asked out of curiosity, “Mr. Faymon, did something wonderful happen recently?”

“No, it’s just my birthday today,” Curtis replied in a gentle tone, beaming with his eyes. “I’ve invited a few friends out to discuss business and celebrate my birthday at the same time.”

The answer stunned Rayna.

Today is Uncle Curtis’ birthday? His thirtieth birthday?

Chapter 112

Chapter 112 Your Beauty Mesmerizes Me

The news caught Rayna off guard, giving her no time to prepare a gift. Recalling that Curtis liked sweet soup, she brought out the thermos in her bag and handed it to Curtis.

“About that, Mr. Faymon, I wasn’t aware that it was your birthday, so I didn’t prepare a gift. My mom made this, so if you don’t mind, you can have it. Also… happy birthday.”

The pink thermos held within her slender hands resembled a jewel, a sight so pleasing to the eye that it elicited a faint smile from Curtis.

She’s such an interesting woman. Every time she presents a gift, it always turns out to be something down to earth.

However, Curtis’ hesitation in taking it caused her imagination to run wild. Since Curtis had everything he fancied, giving the sweet soup began to feel like a bad idea to her.

Just as she retracted her hand, Curtis took the thermos from her. With a gentle smile, he replied, “Thank you, Ms. Garland. This is a wonderful present. I like it very much.”

A light blush descended upon Rayna’s cheeks. “You’re too kind, Mr. Faymon.”

When Curtis invited her to join him for the evening, Rayna declined cordially, cognizant that she and his friends were of different worlds.

Thereafter, Curtis took a call and needed to leave. Before he did, he gestured for the salesperson to come over. “Ms. Garland, just let him know which unit you fancy, as I’ll be taking my leave.”

Rayna nodded in acknowledgment.

After Curtis was gone, Rayna continued to survey the layout plan and scale model. In comparison to the few projects she discussed with Curtis, she still preferred the one at Mayfair Street due to its ease of access to public transport.

“I’ll take this one.” Upon making her decision, Rayna handed the salesperson her card. Initially, she wanted to use James’ details but ended up handing over her own ID card since he had taken his with him.

Due to the salesperson’s efficiency, the paperwork was completed within ten minutes.

The price she saw upon signing stunned her. “Only eight hundred thousand? Did you make a mistake?”

“Mr. Faymon has instructed us to give you a ninety percent discount for your chosen unit,” the salesperson explained. “Every unit here belongs to the Faymon Group. Therefore, you just need to pay eight hundred thousand, and we’ll take care of the rest.”

Rayna was at a loss for words.

I just wanted a symbolic discount. A hefty ninety percent discount is as good as giving me the unit for free.

Rayna asked, “What if I don’t want it?”

“Are you unsatisfied with this unit? You’re free to choose another one. I’ll just give Mr. Faymon a heads- up.” Just as the salesperson was about to give Curtis a call, Rayna stopped him.

“I’ll take it. I’m signing it now.” Rayna put her signature down immediately and handed the document back.

Since I have rejected him once, doing so a second time would make me look unreasonable. I might as well accept it. Uncle Curtis is right. It’s no big deal to accept a reward after all I have done for him.

The unit she bought was fully furnished, allowing one to move in anytime.

Upon completing the procedures, Rayna drove back to her condominium and gave Linda a call on her journey home. She instructed the latter to start packing so that she and James could help her move next week. Linda naturally had no objections.

As Jessica wasn’t back yet, Rayna was alone in the condominium. After setting out the rest of the food Linda prepared on the table, she took a shower and planned to watch a movie. It was then that she received a few messages and documents from her colleagues, spoiling her mood.

Wasn’t I supposed to be on holiday? In the end, I’m just working in a different office!

By the time she looked up after finishing her work, the sky was already dark, as it was already seven in the evening. It was then that her phone suddenly rang.

Annoyed by it, Rayna answered, “Who is it?”

“Ms. Garland, it’s me, Ms. Gardner,” Naomi replied. “Do you have some time now?”

“What is it about?”

“Mr. Faymon… there’s something wrong with him.” Stumbling on her words, Naomi explained frantically, “When I picked him up at seven-thirty at the club, just as he requested, he refused to leave. Instead, he looked listless and would drink whenever someone asked him to.”

Listless?

Guessing that Curtis must have drunk something strong like brandy, she replied anxiously, “Keep an eye on him, and stop him from drinking any more. Which club is he at? I’ll head over right away!”

“I appreciate it, Ms. Garland.”

During the drive to the club, Rayna had a sudden realization.

Slapping her own forehead, she ranted, “What’s wrong with me? Why am I going? Shouldn’t I just let Ms. Gardner take care of it?”

This will make me look as if I care a lot about Uncle Curtis.

Nevertheless, she had driven past the tunnel and was about to arrive at the club. Too late to turn back, Rayna steeled herself for the task. Soon, upon stopping her car by the street, she hurried into the venue.

Once she located the private room and entered, she was greeted by the sight of Naomi bantering with the other guests while frantically taking the wine glass away from Curtis’ hand to stop.

“You’ll have to excuse me, but Mr. Faymon can’t hold his liquor. He has already reached his limit.”

No sooner had she spoken than Curtis’ influential business partners became upset. “This isn’t vodka. There’s no way anyone can get drunk on this. Besides, all of us know how well Mr. Faymon can really hold his drink.”

“It looks to me that he wants to drink it, so you had better not spoil the party by getting in his way.”

“Exactly. Today is his birthday after all!”

Naomi didn’t dare offend any of the powerful figures. Hence, the sight of Rayna caused her eyes to glisten as if her savior had arrived. “Ms. Garland, you’re finally here.”

“I’m sorry. I was caught in traffic.” Wearing a slight smile, Rayna threw Curtis—who was sitting on the couch—a glance. In place of the distant expression in the afternoon was a clueless and stupid look.

The moment he saw Rayna, Curtis stopped struggling with Naomi over the wineglass. Instead, he got up from the couch.

“Sweet—”

Before he could finish uttering the word “Sweetheart,” Rayna lunged forward to cover his mouth. With an awkward expression, she explained to everyone, “I’m sorry, but Mr. Faymon is drunk.”

“Since today is his birthday and he has invited all of you here to celebrate, it would be rude to spoil the party. Ms. Gardner, please stay back and entertain the guests. I’ll send Mr. Faymon home.”

Naomi nodded in acknowledgment. “Thank you, Ms. Garland.”

With that, Rayna hastily dragged Curtis out of the room. Even though the latter was cooperative, Rayna covering his mouth made for a comical scene.

It wasn’t until they left the club that Rayna heaved a sigh of relief. She then confronted Curtis, “Mr. Faymon, didn’t Mr. Tylinski remind you not to drink recklessly? Do you think you can disregard his advice just because it’s your birthday?”

“I just drank a little brandy, so don’t be mad, Sweetheart.” Curtis sincerely admitted that he was wrong. With his gaze drifting around her belly, he remarked in a gentle tone, “Being angry is bad for the baby.”

Rayna’s lips twitched. “Mr. Faymon, the pregnancy was fake. Have you forgotten?”

“How could it have been fake?” Curtis questioned groggily. “Sweetheart, are you messing with me? I swear I won’t drink brandy again, so don’t be angry with me.”

Rayna was rendered speechless.

D*mn it. Uncle Curtis has lost his spine in his current condition. Whatever I say is useless!

Not wasting any more time talking to him, Rayna ordered him into the car.

Curtis got in obediently and would occasionally turn to ogle at her. Without even looking, Rayna could feel the burning passion of his gaze, which she found annoying.

“Mr. Faymon, can you stop staring at me?”

“Sweetheart, you’re gorgeous.” The effects of the alcohol deepened his voice, making it sound raspy and consequently seductive. “I’ll never tire from admiring your beauty every day.”

 

Chapter 113

Chapter 113 Not Pregnant

Rayna’s face flushed as he flirted with her. It was only during that period could she receive Curtis’ compliments.

She cleared her throat and feigned nonchalance. If I listen to more of Uncle Curtis’ words, I’ll burst into flames from blushing too hard. ”I’m sending you home, Mr. Faymon. You’ll feel better tomorrow after a good night’s sleep.”

“Will you be keeping me company, Sweetheart?”

Of course not!

Sensing her silence, he said, “Today is my birthday. You’re not celebrating this day with me, Sweetheart?”

“Didn’t those people help celebrate your birthday?” she muttered and stole a glance at him. Unexpectedly, Curtis was staring at her. Her heart skipped a beat when she noticed the anticipatory look in his pensive gaze.

Is he looking forward to me celebrating his birthday with him?

Initially, Rayna could’ve just sent him to his mansion, and she would be free to go home. However, she had rarely had the chance to see that side of him. He was gentle, and his gaze was not cold and harsh as usual.

It would be very difficult for her to see him behave in that manner again, so her heart softened.

“Fine.”

Rayna turned the car around and drove toward the amusement park.

The amusement park was even more crowded and lively during the nights of the weekends compared to regular days. The whole place was brightly lit, the giant Ferris wheel rotated round and round, and the sound of people chatting and laughing reverberated in the air.

They entered the park after having their tickets checked. All of a sudden, he wrapped his large and warm hand around hers. “There are a lot of people here in the amusement park. I think it’ll be better for me to hold your hand to prevent the baby from getting hurt.”

Rayna was at a loss for words. Can you stop saying that, Uncle Curtis? I’m really not pregnant!

Naturally, Curtis couldn’t hear Rayna’s inner thoughts as he continued to lead her through the crowd with their hands linked. Sometimes, when passers-by accidentally moved closer to her, he immediately stretched out his hand to shield her and chided others sternly, “Please watch where you’re going. My sweetheart is pregnant.”

The passers-by would then apologize to the couple repeatedly.

Rayna was so embarrassed she wished for the ground to swallow her whole.

There were a lot of food stalls in the amusement park, and Rayna wanted to try some of the delicacies. However, Curtis refused her by saying that the spicy food would hurt her stomach or that she shouldn’t eat ice cream because it was too cold.

In the end, he managed to invoke her temper. She threw a tantrum and shrugged off his hand. “Just let me die in hunger!”

“Don’t be mad, Sweetheart.” He caressed and coaxed her, “Let’s not consume any unhealthy food for the baby’s sake. I’ll buy something else.”

He seated her on a bench before moving away to purchase the food himself.

As realization gradually dawned on her that she had just lashed out at him, Rayna used her hand to cover her face.

Luckily Uncle Curtis won’t remember any of these when he wakes tomorrow. Otherwise, I’ll be so embarrassed.

Soon, he returned with the food he had bought. He held a set of fries in his left hand and a cup of milkshake in his right. Due to his tall figure, Curtis was extremely eye-catching as he navigated through the horde.

“I’ve tried a piece of the fries, and they’re fresh. Have a taste, Sweetheart.” He picked up a piece of the fries and blew on it before delivering it to her mouth. “I also purchased a cup of hot milkshake.”

“I-I’ll do this by myself.” She wasn’t used to that pampered treatment.

“Are you disdaining me, Sweetheart?”

Rayna was stumped.

That’s not what I meant, okay? I’m simply not used to letting others feed me.

Curtis was reluctant to put down his hand, so she had no choice but to eat the piece of fries. She was surprised by how delicious the snack was. Right after she finished a piece, he fed her in the same manner again.

Then, he handed her the cup of hot milkshake.

Behind them stood the large, colorful, and dazzling Ferris wheel. Bending down in front of Rayna, Curtis was exceptionally gentle and thoughtful, seemingly dedicated all his tenderness to caring for her.

A strange sensation, an unprecedented sweet and warm feeling, spread within her.

She even hoped that time would flow a little slower at that moment.

After eating and resting for a short while, Curtis held her hand again as they continued to move through the crowd. Taking in how happy the others were, Rayna also wanted to sit on the Ferris wheel, but he forbade her.

“No. The Ferris wheel is too high. Besides, there will be a higher chance for an accident to happen.”

Fine. I won’t sit on the Ferris wheel, then.

Rayna conceded. When she saw many people enjoying the bumper cars, she wanted to try them out too. Unfortunately, Curtis denied her again. “No. That’s a game involving people driving cars to knock into one another. The intense activity will harm the baby.”

She was on the verge of smashing her cup of milkshake to the floor in frustration. “If you won’t allow me to enjoy any activities here, are we just here to walk around aimlessly?”

“I’m not prohibiting you from enjoying yourself, but you should avoid these dangerous pursuits.” He corrected her while pointing to one side. “I think this is perfect. You may go ahead and indulge yourself in fun, Sweetheart.”

She looked in that direction, and her facial expression slackened instantaneously.

Ha! Of course, he thinks the carousel is great. There won’t be any danger since the ride will just go round and round.

Amidst her inward laments, Curtis had paid for the ride. He bent down to carry her in his arms. Then, after entering the venue, he carefully placed her on the rainbow horse. “Have fun, Sweetheart.”

Rayna was at a loss for words.

Another couple was about to enter the merry-go-round venue. When the girl saw how doting Curtis was, she immediately raised a ruckus. “Ah! Look how attentive the other girl’s boyfriend is. I don’t care. I want you to hug me as he did!”

“You’re already an adult. Why do you need me to carry you?” the boy grumbled. Still, he lifted her onto the wooden horse.

Curtis’ face darkened as he said to that boy in displeasure, “To me, my sweetheart will always be eighteen years old. She’s like a child who won’t grow old, and I’m willing to hold her in my arms for the rest of my life. Your girlfriend doesn’t look like she weighs over eighty pounds, yet you’re complaining even when she asked you to hug her for a short while. I think it’s time for her to find another boyfriend.”

The boy was utterly humiliated by Curtis’ remark.

Rayna’s cheeks reddened slightly. Nevertheless, she couldn’t help but purse her lips and smile.

Uncle Curtis is so cute!

The carousel started to move as cheerful music played in the background. The crystal chandelier atop also spun according to the rhythm, illuminating the faces of all the girls riding the horses, giving the captivating scene a magical vibe.

Rayna felt a little self-conscious when she noticed Curtis taking photos of her using his phone. However, after some time, perhaps due to the influence of the other girls, she cooperated by striking a few poses while smiling faintly at the camera.

The ride that lasted for five minutes felt like a century. Probably because of the hot weather, her sideburns became drenched in sweat when she got down from the carousel.

Wiping off her sweat, he asked, “Do you want to ride it again?”

“Once is enough.” She shook her head. After interacting intimately with him for so long, Rayna no longer felt awkward. Instead, she grew accustomed to his various thoughtful gestures. “Let’s go check out other features.”

“We’ll do as you say, Sweetheart.”

A lot of people crowded around the stall beside the balloon-shooting booth. Attracted by the liveliness, Rayna dragged Curtis over to check out the commotion.

Noticing the timer on the table, they realized it was a challenge. Anyone successfully performing a dead hang on the steel bar for four hundred and twenty seconds could win the extra large-size blue whale plushie at the back of the stall.

The whale was three meters in length, looking impressive and colossal.

Many people surrounded the scene, but not many attempted. After all, lasting four hundred and twenty seconds on a dead hang was highly demanding for those who weren’t athletes.

“The last contender was covered in sweat even after two minutes.”

“This is too difficult. Who can accomplish this?”

Sensing Rayna staring at the enormous blue whale, Curtis whispered, “Do you like that whale, Sweetheart? In that case, I’ll win it for you.”

“That’s not needed. I’m just looking around—”

Before she could finish her sentence, he had already strode forward to talk to the booth owner. Then, he smiled at her, flexed his wrists, and jumped up to catch the steel bar above him.

She covered her mouth with her hand.

Dead hang was a form of exercise that strained a person’s arms. Talking to someone else while doing the exercise would rapidly drain one’s energy. Hence, she feared she would affect his performance by conversing with him.

And just like that, seconds continuously ticked away.

 

Chapter 114

Chapter 114 Sorry For Bothering You

…220… …225… …230… …235…

The crowd saw that Curtis had endured for 260 seconds and counting. Excitement bubbled up all around. Curtis, however, looked perfectly at ease as he kept his eyes trained on Rayna.

…400… …410… …419…

At the 420th second, Curtis was still hanging on. Whispers of amazement and admiration sounded all around. Curtis glanced at the timer and casually let himself drop to the ground, landing gracefully on his feet.

Rayna hurried over to him and reached for his hands. Flipping them around, she saw that his palms were red and tender. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. It was easy.”

The game operator approached Curtis with the huge whale plush toy in tow. “Wow, good job, young man! I’ve been running this game for years, and after the couple about four years ago, you are the second person to hang on for that long!”

Curtis took the plush toy from the man and said with a smile, “My sweetheart took a liking to this whale, so I thought I’d give it a shot.”

Rayna’s ears turned pink at his words.

The blue whale plush toy was huge, almost three meters in length. Curtis was afraid that Rayna might have trouble carrying it, so he tossed it over his shoulder and held it with one hand, his other one

holding onto Rayna’s. Passersby could not help but stare at the beautiful-looking couple wherever they went.

“Sweetheart, are there any other games that you would like to play?”

“No. Let’s head back.”

Although it was Curtis’ birthday, it seemed that Rayna was the one who had been enjoying the amusement park, and she was rather embarrassed at the realization. After the two of them got into the car, Rayna drove toward her mother’s house with the big blue whale taking up the entire backseat.

Linda was about to go to bed when the two guests arrived. She was surprised to see Rayna when she pulled open the door and exclaimed, “Why are you here again?” As she glanced past her daughter, Linda saw Curtis standing behind the latter. She was doubly surprised at the sight of the striking man.

“It’s his birthday today. I brought him over for a special birthday meal,” Rayna explained. She turned to Curtis and introduced Linda by saying, “Mr. Faymon, this is my mom, Linda.”

Curtis nodded politely at Linda and said apologetically, “Ah, my mother-in-law! Sorry for bothering you this late.”

Rayna blushed at the way Curtis had addressed her mother.

For a brief second, Linda stared back at Curtis, dumbstruck. Then, she quickly returned his greeting and pulled the door open to admit Rayna and Curtis. “This man is so much more handsome than Julian. I like him better,” whispered Linda to Rayna as the latter walked past her into the house.

“Mom, he’s my boss. Don’t be silly,” Rayna hissed at her mother.

“Then why did he address me like that?”

Rayna could not say that Curtis was drunk because her mother would never believe her. Instead, she ignored the question and quickly changed the topic. She dragged Linda into the kitchen and said a bit too loudly, “Mom, you’re the best cook I know! Let me help you!”

Curtis, on the other hand, sat politely in the living room as he waited.

Right then, his phone vibrated in his pocket as someone was video-calling him on WhatsApp. After a brief moment of thought, he answered the call, and a young man wearing a ponytail appeared on the screen.

“Happy birthday, Curtis!” Wyatt said with a smile. He raised an eyebrow questioningly as he took in Curtis’ background. “Where are you, Curtis? It looks like an old house.”

“My mother-in-law’s house,” Curtis replied with a faint smile.

“Huh! Who’s your mother-in-law?” Wyatt asked with his eyes wide open in surprise.

Curtis wore a strange expression on his face. Seeing the look on Curtis’ face, mischief crossed Wyatt’s mind, and he wanted to tease the former.

“Jeremy, I think something’s wrong with Curtis over here,” he called out to Jeremy.

Soon, Jeremy’s face appeared on the screen. He squinted at Curtis and asked, “Did you have something to drink earlier, Curtis?”

“I had some brandy.”

“Ah, brandy has a high alcohol content. No wonder Curtis looks a little out of it,” Jeremy said to Wyatt. Then, he turned back to Curtis and asked curiously, “Curtis, where are you exactly?”

“Haven’t I already said that I’m at my mother-in-law’s?” Curtis repeated rather impatiently. However, nothing could spoil his good mood that night. He continued in a rather smug tone, “My sweetheart and her mother are making a special birthday meal for me.”

“Curtis, you’ve been single for the longest time! What’s going on—” Wyatt countered.

Jeremy smacked him before he could finish his sentence.

He shoved Wyatt out of the screen and flashed Curtis a bright smile. “You’re always saying how busy your lady is. It’s so sweet of her to make time to celebrate your birthday with you. Can I say hello to her?”

Curtis nodded and told him to wait before he stood up and walked toward the kitchen.

“Sweetheart.”

“Huh? What do you want?” Rayna was unnerved to hear him call her so intimately. It was fine with her if there was no one else around, but with her mother within earshot, Rayna felt embarrassed and uncomfortable.

Curtis handed her his phone and said, “Jeremy wants to say hi to you.”

Jeremy?

Rayna was still wondering who that was when she caught sight of the young man wearing a white jacket on the video call. He looked polished and refined.

Jeremy did a double-take when his eyes landed on Rayna. “Hello! I’m Jeremy,” he introduced himself in a friendly voice.

Rayna nodded at him and explained, “Er, Mr. Faymon had a bit too much to drink, so…”

“Oh, I know!” Jeremy replied with a smile. There was no trace of anger or hostility in his tone. “I just wanted to thank you for taking care of Curtis and for celebrating his birthday with him.”

“Oh, you’re welcome.” Jeremy’s friendly tone put Rayna at ease.

After some small talk, Jeremy ended the call.

When Wyatt got up from the carpet where Jeremy had pushed him down, he saw the latter putting away his phone. “Hey! Did you hang up already? I wasn’t done speaking to Curtis!” he yelled in an annoyed tone. But almost immediately, he sounded curious as he asked, “Who was that woman on the call just now? Does Curtis really have a girlfriend?”

“Maybe she’s someone who works for Curtis,” Jeremy guessed. “I have a good impression of her. She’s easy to get along with.”

“You shouldn’t have ended the call so quickly! I could’ve taken a look as well!”

“We’ll be flying back next Friday. Wouldn’t it be better to meet her in person?” Jeremy tossed the phone at Wyatt and turned to leave. “Just hurry up and finish what you’re supposed to do. I’m not going to help you.”

“Come on! Don’t do this. Aren’t we the best of friends?” Wyatt coaxed him in a wheedling voice. “We can have fun once we get home. Ah, I’m excited just thinking about it! After two more years in Norham, I’ll be ready to retire!”

“Do you want to bet on it?”

“Okay! What shall we bet?”

After a short while, a bowl of steaming hot mac-and-cheese was served.

Rayna had stuck a candle right in the middle of the bowl and lit it up. She then asked Curtis to make a wish.

The old Curtis would never have entertained such a childish notion. However, the man closed his eyes at that moment, whispered a wish in his heart, and blew out the candle.

Curtis scooped a spoonful of the mac-and-cheese into his mouth. It was dripping with three kinds of melted cheese and aromatic herbs. The dish was truly one-of-a-kind. “Linda, you really are an amazing cook! This is the best mac-and-cheese I’ve ever had! No other can top it!” he praised.

Linda smiled from ear to ear, bursting with pride. “Come over anytime! I’ll make it for you again!”

Rayna just smiled as she watched their interaction.

There won’t be a second time!

By the time Rayna drove Curtis back to his home, it was already past eleven o’clock and fast approaching midnight.

Curtis lingered in the car for a long time. “Sweetheart, you really won’t move in here?”

“We’ve already agreed before that we will live separately. Go on in. Take a shower and go to bed,” Rayna coaxed Curtis with ease.

The latter unbuckled his seatbelt and swung open the car door. Suddenly, he turned back toward Rayna, leaned over, and pressed a kiss onto her lips. Rayna was caught off guard.

“Be careful on the road, Sweetheart.”

While Curtis’ voice was still ringing in Rayna’s ear, he had already shut the car door behind him. Rayna quickly composed herself and drove off. In the rearview mirror, she watched Curtis walk up the steps to

his front door and enter his house.

On the way back to her own home, Rayna brought her finger to her lips and touched them lightly. Her heart had been beating wildly since she had driven off from Curtis’ house.

Why did he kiss me again?

Chapter 115

Chapter 115 Is Uncle Curtis Getting Married

She began to feel an intense heat in her body as the man’s warmth lingered on her lips. When she was about to lose all self-control, she quickly returned to her condominium and took a shower to tame that steamy sensation.

On Monday morning, Rayna drove Jessica to the office. The latter would normally spend forty minutes on her daily commute to work, but she managed to cut her travel time by half today. Having a car is so convenient!

After entering the office, Rayna noticed some wedding favors on her desk. In fact, everyone had received them at their respective workstations.

She grinned and asked her colleague, “What are the wedding favors about? Is someone getting hitched?”

“It’s Ms. Faymon from the planning department,” the colleague replied. “I heard she’s pregnant and will be marrying someone from a prominent family in Mapleton next month. The wedding favors are from her.”

“Really?” Rayna seemed baffled. Hadn’t she vowed not to marry anyone since the son of a government official from Frosa hurt her feelings? Yet, all of a sudden, she’s ready to tie the knot? Getting pregnant at her age can be risky as she is a few years older than Curtis. Did something happen to the Faymon family?

Nevertheless, Rayna did not let those questions get to her as she had tons of work to do.

She texted Curtis about it but did not get an immediate response.

She did not receive a reply from him in the afternoon—not even the next day. In fact, he did not even come to the office for the next few days. Brooklyn, too, disappeared after giving out the wedding favors.

The office remained peaceful as nothing major happened.

A few days later, Kristie came to Faymon Group in a huff and confronted Rayna in her department.

“I always thought you’re good at seducing men.” Feeling disappointed, Kristie tossed a newspaper on her desk and glowered at Rayna. “How could you allow someone else to take advantage of you? What has become of you?”

Rayna was confused to hear that. When she lowered her head to read the newspaper, a photo of an intimate young couple caught her attention.

The newspaper’s headline, printed in a large font, read: Mr. Curtis Faymon will be tying the knot with Ms. Jasmine Sanders from Lorentz Group!

Rayna instantly felt her blood run cold. U-Uncle Curtis is getting married?

“You’re so useless, Rayna!” Kristie poked the newspaper with her index finger as if she was poking Rayna. “Since when did that woman hook up with Curt? I wasn’t aware of this because I was busy filming, but you? How could you not know about this?”

“Hey! Say something! Answer me! Are you deaf? Someone stole your man. Are you not mad?” she continued to bellow.

Rayna gradually came to her senses amidst Kristie’s angry outburst. She pressed her lips together and said calmly, “Kristie, I’m afraid you’ve misunderstood my relationship with Mr. Faymon. There’s nothing between us.”

“That’s bull! Curt wouldn’t have treated you so well if there was nothing between the two of you. When you were in Tyrandas—” Kristie stopped in her tracks as she recalled Curtis’ warning. Instead of completing her sentence, she cast Rayna a disdainful look.

Rayna asked, “Tyrandas?”

Come to think of it, she remembered Kristie did say something that made no sense to Curtis when she had regained consciousness. Why don’t I have any clue about what happened at that time?

“Nothing. Can you please step up your game?” Kristie pouted, expressing her dismay. “I don’t like you, but at least you come from a decent family.”

She continued, “Jasmine’s mother is an embarrassment. Do you know what she did for a living? Moreover, Jasmine is an illegitimate child of the family. The media will make Curt a laughing stock if he marries that woman!”

“Ms. Sanders’ family background has nothing to do with me,” Rayna said. She was not in the mood to continue this conversation with Kristie. “Go ahead and do what you want, but leave me alone.”

Kristie stomped in frustration and growled, “I wouldn’t have come to you if I had a choice! Curt has been ignoring me, and he refused to take my calls. You should be glad that I’m on your side!”

She continued, “Can we call a truce and get rid of that woman first? You don’t want Curt to marry her, do you?”

“First of all, I’ve never thought of you as my rival, Ms. Winton, so please stop thinking of me as your enemy,” Rayna said. “Secondly, Mr. Faymon can marry anyone he likes. There’s nothing we outsiders can do about it.”

At that point, she just wanted Kristie to leave her alone. “I still have a lot of work to do, Ms. Winton. I’d appreciate it if you could leave me alone.”

“You—”

“Jordan, please see Ms. Winton out.”

Kristie did not want to end the discussion, but the grim-faced Rayna immediately ordered her subordinate to escort her out. After giving Rayna a murderous glare, Kristie stormed out of the office in her heels.

Silence befell her office after Kristie had left, but Rayna was not in the mood to go through the documents on her desk anymore.

Staring at the newspaper, she felt utterly out of sorts. I celebrated his birthday just a few days ago, and today, he announced he’s getting married. How did everything happen in the blink of an eye?

Since Curtis’ wedding announcement made headlines, it instantly became the talk of the town. Rayna noticed that everyone in Faymon Group was also busy discussing the big news about the CEO.

Even when she went up to the secretarial department, Naomi, too, expressed her disbelief. “Mr. Faymon told me he’d be busy these two days, but it never crossed my mind that he’d be busy with his engagement! This is so unexpected!”

Rayna responded with a faint smile. “Maybe they have known each other for a long time.”

“I’ve worked with Mr. Faymon for years, but I’ve never met Ms. Sanders,” Naomi said softly. “I heard Old Mr. Faymon was admitted to the hospital and is now hanging by a thread. All the Faymons are planning their next course of action.”

She continued, “I supposed that’s why Mr. Faymon decided to marry in haste. He might be running Faymon Group, but Old Mr. Faymon is still the company’s director. If anything goes south, all the Faymons, including the daughters-in-law and children, will definitely want a piece of the pie. Mr. Faymon doesn’t have the final say in the company.”

“Old Mr. Faymon is in the hospital?” Rayna’s expression darkened. “He had a vacation overseas, hadn’t he? I thought he was in the pink of health.”

Naomi replied, “Yes, he did. I heard Mr. Faymon instruct someone to bring him back because he had a cardiac episode. But this time, I have no clue if Old Mr. Faymon was hospitalized because of the same health issue.”

Rayna began to ponder. No wonder none of the Faymons came to the office these few days. Ms. Sanders might be an illegitimate child, but since she has Lorentz Group and the Sanders family on her side, I guess marrying her will be a wise move for Uncle Curtis.

After glancing at Rayna for a moment, Naomi said, “Ms. Garland, I’d always thought you and Mr. Faymon were an item, but I guess fate decided to play a cruel trick on you two.”

Rayna’s heart skipped a beat upon hearing that, but she immediately pulled herself together and responded with a grin, “He was looking out for me because he knew I’d made enemies the moment I was appointed the company’s regulator. Anyway, carry on with your work. I’m going back to my office now.”

Rayna left the secretarial department as soon as possible because she did not want Naomi to ask more questions.

Bewildered by Rayna’s reaction, Naomi could only watch her leave in haste.

After a long, hectic day, Rayna leaned against the chair, feeling utterly exhausted.

Yet, she could not help but recall the news about Curtis’ wedding. While she was scrolling her phone, the same article popped up again on the screen. Out of frustration, she tossed her belongings into her bag and left the office.

Jessica could tell that Rayna was having a bad day. After glancing at her for a few seconds, she decided to sit quietly in the car.

Their car could hardly move as they were stuck in a jam. It was as if the traffic of the entire city was snarled up. After arriving at the underground car park of the shopping mall, Rayna got down from the car and slammed the door.

 

Chapter 116

Chapter 116 Because You Have Fallen For Him

Rayna’s action sent shivers up Jessica’s spine. While walking to the elevator, Jessica could not help but advise, “Don’t take it out on your car since it didn’t do you wrong. What if you damaged the door? You’ll have to send it to the workshop for repair.”

Rayna responded in a calm voice, “Am I angry? I don’t think so. Why should I be angry?”

“Look at you. Pretty sure everyone can read the expression on your face,” Jessica muttered. “I know you’re feeling down. Why don’t you talk to Mr. Faymon? Tell him you don’t want him to get married.”

“He can marry anyone he likes. It has nothing to do with me,” Rayna uttered.

Jessica said, “You’re in love with him.”

“No, I’m not,” Rayna denied.

“If you’re not in love with him, why would you be mad when you learned about his engagement?”

“I’m not mad. I’m just…” Words caught in Rayna’s throat. She scratched her head as her frustration grew. I don’t even know why I’m so annoyed!

Jessica tapped the back of one hand against her other palm as if she saw through Rayna. “See? You’ve fallen for him, but you refuse to admit it. Why are you hiding your feelings? Mr. Faymon is wealthy and handsome, and you’re a good match for him! Even though you didn’t come from a prominent family, you’re a Norham University graduate! Besides that, Mr. Faymon knows you’re smart. That was why he transferred you to a new department and made you a manager. There’s a vast difference between a manager and an ordinary employee. You know that, right?”

“That’s not how I think of him. Besides, he’s Julian’s uncle, so…”

Realization dawned on Jessica upon hearing that. “So that’s your concern, huh? Why let that bother you, Rayna? Now that you’ve divorced Julian, you can marry anyone you like. I’m sure the Faymons will have no problem with you dating Curtis.”

Frustration continued to overwhelm Rayna. She interrupted Jessica, “Enough. So what if I have feelings for him? He’s engaged now. Let’s just put this behind us.”

‘But you…” Jessica did not want to give up persuading Rayna, but upon noticing the murderous glance Rayna shot her, Jessica became ashen-faced.

Knowing Rayna was having a tough time accepting the news, Jessica decided not to rub salt into her wound anymore.

The two women did not speak to each other throughout the walk to the supermarket. Even after they had filled the shopping carts with groceries and made the payment at the counter, they remained silent. While Rayna did not feel like talking because she was frustrated, Jessica kept mum because she dared not add fuel to the fire.

“Miss, you dropped something!”

Rayna and Jessica heard a child’s voice from behind when they were about to walk out of the supermarket with their shopping bags. A young boy ran over and stopped Rayna from leaving.

“This is your car key, right?” The boy showed her a car key in his hand.

Clad in branded clothes and a black baseball cap, the boy exuded a sophisticated aura. The fact that he had rosy cheeks with chiseled facial features also suggested that his parents, too, must be easy on the eyes.

Rayna checked her bag and realized her car key was missing.

“Thank you.” She took the key from the boy. I must have dropped it at the counter just now.

“You’re welcome. Be careful next time!” the boy said. Upon noticing the laces on Rayna’s heels had gotten loose, he squatted down and helped her fasten them.

Jessica exclaimed, “What an adorable kid! Others would have called us madams. Not only is he sweet, but he’s also caring. What a gentleman!”

The boy’s action also caught Rayna by surprise.

She thought it was inappropriate for her to reward the boy with money, so she took a few bottles of yogurt drinks out of the shopping bag and gave them to him. She smiled at him and said, “Thanks for giving me back my car key and helping me with my lace-up heels. I can’t think of a better way to thank you, so here you go—these drinks are for you.”

“Don’t mention it. I’m glad I could help.” The boy waved a dismissive hand instead of accepting the drinks.

Rayna gently pulled his hand over and gave him the drinks. “This is a token of appreciation from me. I might not be able to drive home tonight had you not given me back the key.”

“Come on, take the drinks. They’re delicious!” Jessica thought he looked cute, so she took the opportunity to pinch his cheeks. My goodness, they’re so soft and tender!

After the boy had accepted the drinks, a thirty-year-old rushed over.

“Could you not run around?” the woman reprimanded the boy and helped him put his mask on. “Didn’t I tell you to put your mask on? Look at the dust around you!”

The boy was annoyed. “What dust? We’re in a shopping mall, for goodness sake. I even can’t breathe properly with this mask on.”

“Of course, there is dust everywhere, especially when people are walking around you,” the woman uttered. Upon noticing the yogurt drinks in his hand, she snatched them from him and asked, “Where did you get these?”

Rayna stepped in. “I gave him the drinks. He found my car key, and I gave him these as a thank-you gift…”

“No, thanks. He doesn’t like to drink all these!” The inconsiderate woman tossed the yogurt drinks into a bin without hesitation.

“Hey, how could you—” Jessica was about to explode in rage.

Rayna immediately pulled Jessica away as she could tell that the impolite woman was the boy’s nanny.

After responding with a grin, she said to the woman, “I’m so sorry. We didn’t know that. Anyway, I appreciate this little guy’s help. We’re gonna go now.”

Rayna then dragged Jessica with her, leaving the boy and the nanny standing at the supermarket’s entrance.

“Come on, let’s go.” The nanny held the boy’s hand, yet she could not stop mumbling, “You shouldn’t have picked up random things from the floor. There might be germs all over that car key! I’m sure someone else would have picked that up and returned them the key.”

All of a sudden, the boy pulled his hand away from her.

His reaction caught the woman off guard. When she turned around to look for the boy, he was already rummaging through the bin, looking for the yogurt drinks.

The nanny caught up with him. “Leave them in the bin. Tell me what you want, and I’ll buy it!”

“The germs would have wiped out the entire human race if they were that scary!” The grim-faced young boy raised his voice after pulling down his mask. “I only get to leave the house three times a week, and whenever I’m out, you’d always make me put on a mask and wear a cap. You said you didn’t want me exposed to germs, but deep in your heart, you just didn’t want me to be seen in public!”

The nanny was bereft of words as she did not expect him to figure that out.

“If you feel bored staying at home, I’ll try to get your mom’s permission to take you out more often,” the nanny said. “Your mom is just worried about your safety. All right, let’s go home, shall we?”

“Leave those drinks in the bin. I’ll get you new ones,” she added.

“No! They’re my reward!” The boy hugged the yogurt drinks. To children, rewards meant the world to them if someone appreciated their help.

“How could you take something out from the trash bin…” The nanny panicked.

The boy shot daggers at her and replied aloofly, “Why can’t I? Listen carefully—you’re just a nanny my mom hired to take care of me, so you better show me some respect. If you try to be rude or throw my things away again, I’ll fire you! For your information, I don’t need my mom’s permission to do that!”

“All right, all right. I’ll not do it again.” The nanny broke out in a cold sweat.

The boy might be young, but he exuded a domineering aura that would cause anyone to shudder.

After letting out a cold snort, he took down his cap, tossed it to the nanny, and walked away while hugging the yogurt bottles. The childcare worker had no choice but to catch up with him while carrying his cap and mask.

Meanwhile, all the Faymon Group employees were still hyped about their CEO’s engagement.

Curtis even delivered wedding favors to the office a few days later.

This time, the wedding favors were custom-made by Saint Confectionery. Each box contained only ten chocolates, but its retail price was up to the thousands. Curtis even gave everyone in Faymon Group around six thousand as monetary gifts.

 

Chapter 117

Chapter 117 A Gift From Uncle Curtis

The agitation in Rayna was about to subside when she suddenly noticed the glaring wedding favors and monetary gift on the table that burned her eyes.

It just so happened that Jordan came in to deliver some documents.

Rayna threw the wedding favors and monetary gift to him. “Take these. I don’t want them.”

“Oh, okay.” Jordan was stunned for a moment before asking cautiously, “Ms. Garland, you seem to be in a bad mood these days. Is it because we aren’t doing our job properly?”

Can they see that I’m in a bad mood too?

Slightly taken aback, Rayna forced a smile. “No, you’re doing a great job. It’s my problem.”

“Tell me if you need anything.”

Jordan soon left, but he merely took the wedding favors, not the monetary gift.

After staring at the document in front of her for a while, Rayna felt that the words in the document became jumbled up and ended up becoming the content of the newspaper she previously saw. She could not help but bring the palm of her hand to her face in exasperation.

What’s wrong with me? Why am I so upset? I barely interact with Uncle Curtis except during the business trip to Tyrandas, where we spent some time together. After we came back, we go about our daily life. Why would I fall for him?

The screen of the phone on the table lit up. There was a new WhatsApp message.

Curtis: Ms. Garland, I would like to invite you to dinner tonight. Let’s meet at Red Bricks Restaurant at seven o’clock.

Rayna’s hand trembled when she clicked to view the WhatsApp message.

Uncle Curtis hasn’t contacted me for so many days. He did not even send me a single WhatsApp message. Why does he suddenly invite me to dinner tonight? Has he texted the wrong person? But then there’s “Ms. Garland” in his text.

His WhatsApp message left Rayna absent-minded for the rest of the day. She had been hesitating, unsure if she should accept his invitation. When it was time to get off work, she decided to go home with Jessica.

As soon as she got out of the elevator, Rayna saw Naomi outside, who was obviously waiting for her.

Naomi gave her a faint smile. “Ms. Garland, it’s raining. Mr. Faymon is afraid that it will be inconvenient for you, so he asked me to drive you to Red Bricks Restaurant. What do you think?”

“She’s okay with it!” Jessica replied before Rayna could respond. “I’m leaving now.”

She gestured to Rayna before scurrying off to take a taxi.

Rayna was rendered speechless.

The road was even more congested than usual during a rainy day, and cars were traveling at a low speed. In the end, they arrived at Red Bricks Restaurant at seven twenty.

Rayna opened the door of the restaurant and went in. She immediately saw the man sitting by the window without asking the waiter. Leaning slightly against the chair, he seemed to be on the phone as there was a faint smile on his face.

Pursing her lips, she walked over.

“Mr. Faymon.”

As soon as Curtis looked up and saw Rayna, he whispered into the phone and ended the call. Then, he got up and helped her pull out the chair across from his before she could do it.

The waiter brought the menu over after that. Rayna looked at the menu and casually placed an order.

After the waiter left, she could not help but ask, “Mr. Faymon, why did you think of inviting me to dinner? Is something wrong?”

“No. I just want to treat you to dinner.” Curtis flashed her a faint smile.

Rayna found that Curtis seemed to look happier and more at ease. Before that, he was indifferent and standoffish despite being easy to get along with. The difference made her feel bitter.

Is it because of the engagement?

Curtis took out a dark blue gift box from his pocket and pushed it to Rayna. “Ms. Garland, here’s a gift for you.”

Rayna took the gift box and opened it.

On the velvet cloth nestled a necklace. The end of the necklace was engraved with the Anglandurn name of Van Cl*ef & A*pels, while the pendant was a Ferropenean word—Néonatal—cut out of diamonds.

Néonatal meant new life.

Rayna was dazzled by the gleaming jewelry. After a few seconds, she closed the gift box and pushed it back to Curtis. “Thanks, Mr. Faymon, for your kindness. I can’t accept this. In fact, I can afford the

jewels myself. You should also ask Naomi to take back the little castle you gave me previously.”

“Ms. Garland, I just wanted to express my gratitude to you with the gifts. Nothing else. You can afford them too, so they are not a burden to you,” replied Curtis.

Rayna shook her head. “I’ve done nothing to deserve it, Mr. Faymon. I’m already very grateful that you gave me a house that costs eight hundred thousand, so I’ll definitely work for Faymon Group and you, Mr. Faymon, with all my heart.”

Her indifferent tone and the way she addressed him brought a frown to his face. He was a little annoyed.

He felt that it was much nicer for her to call him “Uncle Curtis”.

“Take it as a congratulatory gift, then.” Curtis pushed the gift box over again and raised the corners of his thin lips. “I haven’t congratulated you yet on your transfer to the Department of Regulators as a manager.”

“It’s all right.”

Before Rayna could finish her sentence to reject his gift, Curtis pressed his hand on the gift box and gazed at her, making Rayna’s hand tremble. In the end, she accepted the gift.

After the food was served, they began to eat and rarely talked.

Occasionally, Curtis would ask her about her work and if it was difficult to deal with, while she would tell him that everything was fine. She wanted to ask him about his engagement, but she could not bring herself to do it.

By the time they finished the dinner and left the restaurant, it was still drizzling, making the air a little stuffy.

Curtis drove the car over and insisted on sending Rayna back.

It was so quiet inside the car that Rayna could even hear her own breathing. She turned her head sideways to look at Curtis, who was driving and pursed her lips. “Mr. Faymon, congratulations on your engagement.”

Curtis responded in acknowledgment and added, “Initially, it’s sufficient for our two families to have a meal together for the engagement, but Jasmine’s status in the Sanders family is rather special, so I told the media to issue a notice, trying to make it look good for her.”

“Is that so? It seems that you dote on Ms. Sanders a lot.” Rayna tightened her grip on the gift box in her hand, feeling upset. “Your tone even changes at the mention of Ms. Sanders. You seem really happy.”

Curtis could sense that something was wrong with Rayna’s tone, so he looked at her out of the corner of his eye. She was holding the gift box tightly with her head lowered and lips pursed, but he could not see the look on her face clearly. A strange feeling swelled in him.

Has she fallen in love with me?

Curtis tugged at his tie as he wanted to talk about something with her, but in the end, he said, “There’s a document in the drawer in front of you. Take a look at it when you’re home. I need your help with something.”

“Okay,” Rayna replied as she opened the drawer of the car and took out a document.

At first, the rain was gradually easing off when they left the restaurant, but it became heavier. Soon, the rain was now drumming on the car windows.

Turning his head sideways slightly, Curtis glanced at the rearview mirror, and a sneer flashed across his eyes as if he had seen something. Then, he slammed on the accelerator, jerking the car forward.

Rayna jolted backward as she instinctively gripped the grab handle and reminded, “Mr. Faymon, you should drive slowly on rainy days.”

It’s not like I’m in a rush to head home.

Just as she finished speaking, there was suddenly a car with high beams that went against the traffic in front of the car she was in. Its dazzling light blinded her. All she knew was that the car she was in was shaking and had bumped into something hard.

The world around her began to spin as she was nearly thrown out of her seat. The airbag popped and pressed on her. In the next second, the car rolled over, tossing her around and making her feel dizzy.

 

Chapter 118

Chapter 118 Last Protection

When things settled down, Rayna felt her ears buzzing, and her right shoulder was in severe pain. There was a sweet taste in her throat before she spat out a mouthful of blood uncontrollably.

When she was able to open her eyes, she found that her body was extremely heavy, as if someone was pressing on her.

Curtis had unbuckled his seatbelt at a crucial time and jumped over to protect her, so more than half of the shattered windscreen had pierced his back. There was blood all over him while he got stuck in the deformed car.

“C-Curtis.” Rayna gently moved him away from her with trembling hands. His blood-covered face was a shocking sight. His weak breathing made her panic.

Curtis’ eyes moved under the closed lids before he opened them with difficulty.

With the same dark eyes, he looked up and down at her with labored breathing and asked in a hoarse voice, “Are you okay?”

“I’m okay, but you…” Rayna saw shards of glass on his back, and tears welled up in her eyes. Her voice was trembling as she added, “I’ll help you…”

“I’m fine. You should go out first.”

Even though his lower body was stuck in the cracks of the car, and his voice was hoarse, he still spoke with a gentle voice as he removed the surrounding shards of glass and opened the car door to let Rayna out.

After Rayna left the car, she wanted to pull him out. Being drenched by the rain, she was so anxious that she was about to cry.

However, Curtis grabbed her wrist and said in a hoarse voice, suppressing the pain, “Rayna, you have unmatched talents, and you are the only one I can trust. Please look after Faymon Group if I die.”

“You’re talking nonsense! You won’t die!” Rayna yelled at him and told him to shut up as she was triggered by the word “die”. She tried hard to remove the heavy object on his legs.

Yet, Curtis’ body was so stuck in the car that she could not move him an inch no matter how hard she tried.

His clothes were completely soaked in blood. He could no longer hold Rayna’s hand tightly and slowly let go before he closed his eyes amidst her crying and scolding.

“Don’t sleep, Curtis. You hear me? Open your eyes!”

No matter how hard Rayna shouted, Curtis remained motionless. If she had listened closely, he had nearly stopped breathing.

Rayna was surrounded by a great sense of fear.

Fortunately, she found her phone in the car. The screen was cracked but it could still be unlocked. After wiping the rainwater off the screen, she called the ambulance with trembling hands.

“Hello, there’s a car accident on Meadow Street. Yes, it’s very serious. Please hurry up.”

The car accident also caught him off guard. His usual calmness was instantly replaced by consternation, a feeling he had never had. Before his car came to a complete halt, he had stumbled out of it.

The black Bentley in front was hit so hard that it was deformed, with shards of glass all around it.

Jefferson ran over and was only relieved when he saw Rayna who was squatting beside the car and talking on the phone crying. He then went to help her up. “Are you okay?”

When he saw the blood on her right shoulder, he immediately took out a handkerchief from his pocket and pressed it against her shoulder, trying to make her leave with him.

“I’m taking you to the hospital.”

“Save Curtis first. He’s still inside and he’s stuck in the car. I’m afraid the ambulance won’t make it in time. Please help him, Jefferson!” Rayna said eagerly while grabbing Jefferson’s hand.

Anger swelled in Jefferson. He grabbed her phone and smashed it to the ground. “Isabelle, why do you still care about others at a time like this? You’ll die. Come with me!”

“No!” Rayna pushed him away fiercely and shouted, “Jefferson, what you’re doing is pointless! Do you think you can fix everything by sending flowers and following me for several months? I’m not Isabelle either! Isabelle Griffith is long dead!”

Jefferson felt a suffocating pain in his chest. He wanted to explain everything to her, but this was not a good time, so he was determined to drag her into the car.

They were then fighting in the rain.

As Rayna could not break free from his grip, she raised her hand and slapped him hard in the face.

The slap caused his head to turn sideways and knocked his glasses off his face. A slap mark soon appeared on his cheek. It was not until her palm went numb that Rayna realized what she had done.

An ambulance was approaching and its siren became louder. Soon, it arrived at the scene. After apologizing to him, Rayna turned around and ran over to help, while Jefferson was rooted to the spot.

Rayna and several nurses spent a lot of effort to pull out Curtis who was stuck under the car. As his legs were stuck for too long, they had become a mass of bleeding flesh. The sight brought tears to Rayna’s eyes.

Soon, Curtis was put on a stretcher and carried into the ambulance.

Seeing that Rayna also got into the ambulance, Jefferson came back to his senses and strode over.

“Isabelle!”

He only managed to take a quick glance at her before the door of the ambulance was closed, and the ambulance left.

Jefferson wanted to chase after her, but the violent beating of his heart made him gasp in pain. His face was distorted as if he could not bear it anymore as he fell backward to the ground in the rain.

…

Rayna had been on edge all the way from the ambulance to the operating room of the hospital. Filled with fear and uneasiness, she stared at the red light of the operating room without blinking.

The doctor said that Curtis is fine, so I have to trust what the doctor told me.

Time ticked by. After what seemed like forever, there was a flurry of footsteps from the other side of the corridor, and then several people came to the operating room.

All of them exuded an air of elegance, but the looks in their eyes were different.

With the help of the wall, Rayna stood up and scanned the people, who seemed to be from the Faymon family. She had seen them when she had dinner at the Faymon residence before her divorce from Julian, who was also standing before her at that moment.

Seeing that Rayna was there, Julian had a complicated look in his eyes. He noticed that she was drenched and her right shoulder was covered in blood, so he took off his coat and put it over her, but she turned him down.

“Don’t reject me now.” Julian grabbed her hand to stop her from removing the coat and went on to ask, “I saw from the news that Uncle Curtis had a car accident on Meadow Street. Were you in the car too?”

Has the news of the car accident spread in such a short time?

Feeling doubtful, Rayna replied, “Yeah. There was a car going against the traffic with high beams on. Mr. Faymon couldn’t dodge it in time and get into the accident.”

“The police will check the surveillance footage to find out what really happened.” Brooklyn walked over and continued in a stern voice, “I will definitely not let you off if Curtis’ car accident is related to you.”

“That’s enough, Brooklyn. Your cousin is still in the operating room. Don’t talk so much.” One of the Faymon family members turned to look at Rayna and added, “You should leave now. You’re not needed here.”

“I’m staying. I’ll leave after Mr. Faymon is safe,” Rayna replied coldly.

“Ms. Garland, what you said is worth pondering, isn’t it?” Brooklyn scrutinized Rayna. “Why are you so worried about Curtis? Is something going on between you and him?”

“Mr. Faymon is my boss.”

“Heh, we can’t say for sure whether you regard Curtis as your boss or something else!”

Rayna pursed her lips.

Just as she was about to say something, another two people came over.

It was a lady in a dark purple dress with a kind face. Looking fit for her age, she did not have a single grey hair, making it impossible to tell her age. She was wearing a pair of gray sheepskin high heels, and a housekeeper was following behind her.

 

Chapter 119

Chapter 119 Curtis Can Only Depend On A Wheelchair

Brooklyn called, “Aunt Sienna!”

It turned out to be the fourth daughter of the Faymon family, Sienna Faymon, Curtis and Brooklyn’s aunt.

“Is everyone here?” Sienna nodded as she looked at the red light above the operating room. She then asked, “I heard Curtis got into an accident. How is he?”

“He’s still in the operating room, so we’re not sure,” Brooklyn said as she glanced at Rayna. “This is Rayna Garland. She’s the manager of the newly established Department of Regulators at Faymon Group. She was also in Curtis’ car.”

Upon hearing Rayna’s name, Sienna narrowed her eyes. In an instant, it seemed like her sharp gaze was directed toward Rayna as she glared at the latter. Sienna had a neutral expression, but her eyes told a different story.

All this while, she had only heard of Rayna. Now that she saw the real person, she noticed that the same person had rejected her business proposal to follow Curtis to discuss a different business in Tyrandas, and caused her to lose a finger.

Sienna walked toward Rayna. Although she was shorter, she emanated an expressive aura. With a hand raised, she was about to slap Rayna.

She moved at a great speed.

Just as Rayna was about to return the action, Julian grabbed her arm and pulled her behind him. With that, the slap from Sienna landed on the lower half of his face with a clean and crisp sound.

Julian licked the corners of his lips that were turning numb before he said, “Aunt Sienna, Rayna is my ex-wife. She’s also hurt. If there’s anything, you can come to me. Besides, this matter was also the other driver’s fault. It has nothing to do with her.”

“The two of you are already divorced, yet you’re still protecting her?” Sienna asked angrily, “Is she more important than your uncle?”

“Aunt Sienna, you have to be reasonable in everything,” Julian said, “Let’s wait for the police to check the surveillance cameras. Once they find out the reason and if it is her fault, it still won’t be too late for you to discipline her then.”

Brooklyn laughed sarcastically. “Julian, the news of you committing adultery was exposed by your ex- wife, which caused you to be transferred to the branch office in Horington. That made you a laughing stock, yet now, you’re protecting her. I don’t understand what you’re doing!”

Julian replied, “It was my fault for cheating on her. I was the one who harmed her, so it’s reasonable for her to take revenge on me. After all, we were once husband and wife. I am not going to see her get hit.”

Rayna glanced at Julian.

Compared to before, he seems like a different person. Why is that?

Sienna put her hand down. Rayna noticed that Sienna’s right hand had only four fingers, and she had no ring finger. From the looks of it, it looked like it had been chopped off.

Sienna said, “This is the Faymon family’s issue. We don’t need any outsiders here. You folks should go.”

“You guys” also included Julian. Sienna did not acknowledge him as a part of the Faymon family. After all, he was just a relative who relied on the Faymon family.

Julian did not overthink it. His expression did not change as he turned around and grabbed Rayna’s hand. “Let’s go. We need to clean the wound on your shoulder, or else it’ll be infected.”

Rayna was silent, but she did not want to leave.

No matter how many people from the Faymon family came or how concerned they were about Curtis’ condition, she did not trust any of them.

“Rayna.” Julian tugged on her arm.

Rayna remained unmoving.

“Enough. Just leave. We don’t need you here to take care of him!” Brooklyn said in frustration. She was about to call the guards to chase them out.

The guards did not come, but three other people showed up.

The three men that arrived were all outstanding people, each taller than the other with different yet handsome facial features.

The man walking in the front was especially cool. His facial features were as sharp as a knife, and he exuded an intense cold aura. His legs, hidden behind those black pants, were long, yet they gave off a feeling of lifelessness.

Rayna stared blankly at the man’s face. She felt as though she had seen him before. Soon, the face of the boy she had met in the shopping mall a few days ago slowly overlapped with the man’s face.

That boy looks like a replica of this man! Is this a coincidence?

Rayna was still in a daze as those three men came forward.

Jeremy, whom Rayna previously met through a video call, greeted her gently, “Ms. Garland.”

“Wow, Missy. You’re so pretty!” A young man swung an arm around Jeremy’s neck and looked at Rayna excitedly. He showed her a peace sign and said, “We added each other as friends on WhatsApp. Do you remember?”

Upon hearing the nickname “Missy,” Rayna thought of when Curtis forwarded her a WhatsApp contact. That contact had messaged her, asking, “Missy, can we get to know each other better?”

The corners of her lips twitched. “Wyatt?”

“That’s me!” Wyatt grinned. “It looks like I have a place in your heart!”

Rayna was at a loss for words.

Jeremy elbowed Wyatt hard in the stomach to shut him up before he asked Rayna, “How’s Curtis?”

“Mr. Faymon is still in surgery.” When she thought of what she had seen, Rayna’s shoulders trembled as she held her hands together to calm herself down. “The doctor said that there’s no need to worry. His condition is not serious.”

Jeremy looked relieved. “Then Curtis should be fine.”

Rayna and Jeremy started talking to one another. Those few people from the Faymon family were confused. They had never met Jeremy and the others.

A glimmer of darkness flashed across Sienna’s eyes.

From how Jeremy addressed Curtis, Sienna determined they had a close relationship with him.

“You’re all Curtis’ friends, right?” Sienna’s tone was gentle yet ruthless as she said, “Please go back. We, from the Faymon family, will take care of him.”

The man leading the group shot Sienna a look.

Wyatt smiled instead. “Ma’am, not only is our Curtis a member of the Faymon family, but he is also our relative. Since he got into an accident, it’s also compulsory for us to take care of him.”

Brooklyn replied, “You guys don’t have the Faymon name. If we let you take care of him, won’t that make people think that we are not dedicated to caring for him?”

Wyatt narrowed his eyes and whistled as he said, “It’s obvious who has ulterior motives and wants to do harmful things.”

“What are you trying to say? Be clear about it!” Brooklyn glared at Wyatt as her tone turned sharp. “Curtis is my cousin. Do you think I’m pretending to be worried because he got into an accident?”

“I can’t help it if you want to be that sensitive.” Wyatt shrugged.

The emotionless man wearing a black shirt suddenly spoke. His tone was cold as he said, “Wyatt.”

Wyatt huffed and remained at Jeremy’s side, not saying anything more. On the other hand, Brooklyn glanced at the man and grimaced as she backed down after noticing that he was not a force to be reckoned with.

Rayna looked at the man once more.

Curtis looked like he was not someone who was approachable, but he was actually a gentleman and a warm person. However, this man seemed lifeless. His eyes seemed like a deep pool. No matter how you threw a rock into it, the waters in it would not ripple. That made him seem heartless.

Jeremy noticed that Rayna kept staring at the man, so he introduced the two, “This is my eldest brother, Theodore Xavier.”

Rayna nodded.

Suddenly, the light above the operating room turned off, and the two heavy doors were opened. The first to come out was the doctor, followed by a few nurses and Curtis, who was pale and unconscious on the hospital bed.

Everyone immediately gathered around them.

Sienna asked in a panic, “Doctor, how is my nephew?”

“Sorry. We’ve done our best,” The doctor’s face was full of sympathy as he said, “Mr. Faymon’s legs were injured badly. I’m afraid he would need to depend on a wheelchair for the rest of his life.”

“No, that’s impossible!” Sienna’s face turned pale, and she swayed back and forth. The others held her up so she would not collapse to the floor. “Doctor, please try again. It doesn’t matter how much it costs!”

Rayna felt like she had entered a frozen cellar and felt chills run down her spine.

This must be fake, right? Uncle Curtis is only thirty years old. There are still many things for him to handle at Faymon Group. How could his legs be paralyzed?

 

 

Chapter 120

Chapter 120 Why Should Curtis Inherit Faymon Group?

The doctor was helpless toward Sienna’s begging. “This has nothing to do with money… Mr. Faymon’s legs were badly injured, and we’ve done our best. Excuse me. I need to get back to work.”

The doctor was in a rush to get to his next operation and left. The nurses pushed the hospital bed and sent Curtis to the ward. Outside the operating room, only the people from the Faymon family, Rayna, Jeremy, and the others, were left.

After learning about Curtis’ condition from the doctor, Jeremy and the others’ expressions changed. Wyatt was agitated and wanted to grab the doctor, but Jeremy stopped him.

“That’s enough. Are things not chaotic like they are now?” Jeremy glared at him before turning to look at Rayna. His expression turned serious as he asked, “Ms. Garland, didn’t you say Jeremy’s condition was stable? How did this happen?”

“I-I don’t know…” The nurse reassured me he was all right when we were in the ambulance. Why did it turn out like this? ”If only Mr. Faymon did not send me home…”

Then we wouldn’t have encountered a car with its high beams on and driving on the opposite road. We won’t be in a deadly accident either.

“I already asked all of you to leave, yet you were adamant about staying here!” Brooklyn hit Rayna with her bag as she angrily yelled, “Are you satisfied with the result? Who are you trying to show that pitiful face of yours to?”

Julian wrapped Rayna in his arms to protect her and blocked Brooklyn’s attack. “No one wanted Uncle Curtis to end up like this. This was an accident. You shouldn’t blame her.”

Brooklyn huffed. “It’s still too early to conclude it as an accident! As long as I’m still in Faymon Group, I will never allow this woman to work there!”

“Are you done arguing?” The noise caused Sienna’s head to ache. Her gaze was sharp as she said, “Your uncle is still unconscious, yet you still have the mood to argue?”

Nobody dared to say a word after being scolded.

Ever since knowing that Curtis’s legs are crippled, Rayna had been in a daze. She could not hear the argument around her. All she could think of was when she celebrated Curtis’ birthday with him at the amusement park before bringing him home to eat the pasta her mother made. She was embarrassed when she heard him call her mother “Mom” so naturally.

Those events happened not long ago. Why did things take a turn for the worse?

As Curtis’ identity was unique, the doctor arranged a single VIP room for him, making it no different from home. Theodore was concerned about Curtis’ safety and had all the patients on that floor move to other floors.

Within fifteen minutes, more than a dozen highly skilled bodyguards sealed off the entire floor. Even the people from the Faymon family who wanted to visit Curtis were blocked from entering.

Sienna’s expression turned grim.

At that moment, Brooklyn shouted, “What’s the meaning of this? Curtis is from the Faymon family, yet you won’t allow us to visit him? Order these people to stand down. We’ll arrange our people to stand guard!”

Ever since she arrived, she had been arrogant and did not care about anyone’s pride because of her identity as part of the Faymon family. Theodore glared at her and said only two words, “F*ck off!”

Those words were cold and ruthless, and they angered Brooklyn to the point that she became breathless. However, that man gave off such a lifeless feeling, and he did not seem like one to be trifled with, so she did not dare to even let out a breath.

Theodore’s men guarded the floor heavily. The people from the Faymon family were unable to enter, and after arguing for some time, they left one by one. A housekeeper held onto Sienna and left too.

Julian wanted to bring Rayna to clean her wound, but she declined. After that, Julian received a call, and his expression changed. Without saying a word, he left in a hurry.

After leaving the hospital, Sienna got into a car parked at the side of the road. At that moment, her expression changed. She did not look as kind as she was when she was in front of everyone. Her expression was now cold.

When the housekeeper entered and closed the door, Sienna asked, “Is it true?”

“Yes, Ms. Faymon,” The housekeeper said in a low voice. “That doctor is one of us and won’t dare to lie to us. He even sent me a message saying that Mr. Curtis’ legs were crippled. He won’t be able to stand in the future.”

“Great! This is him suffering the consequences!” Sienna smiled, and she felt at ease. “Old Mr. Faymon brought him in, yet he really thought that he was from the Faymon family and wanted to take control of everything? He dared to prevent my son from getting promoted and even screwed up my business. I won’t let him live in peace! How can a punk like him inherit Faymon Group?”

The housekeeper also nodded. “Exactly. Mr. Curtis is only a little smarter. Even though so many people are in the Faymon family, Old Mr. Faymon is really fond of him. Previously, Old Mrs. Faymon liked you the most, yet he decided to give Faymon Group to Mr. Curtis. Besides you lot disagreeing, we, the housekeeper, also think he is unfair.”

Sienna rubbed her right hand and stared at the empty spot where her ring finger was supposed to be. It looked rather unsightly.

Until today, she had no idea who had kidnapped her and chopped off one of her fingers. However, she suspected that Curtis might somehow be related to this matter.

“Curtis is no different than a disabled person now. Who knows if he can properly manage Faymon Group when he wakes up?” Sienna rolled her eyes. “Old Mr. Faymon is also hospitalized. It’s our turn to enter Faymon Group.”

She glanced at the housekeeper.

The housekeeper had been with her for a long time and knew what she was thinking. “Don’t worry, Ms. Faymon. I have taken care of everything. No matter how the police investigation goes, the accident happened because the driver had his high beams on and was driving on the opposite side of the road. We also have some dirt on him, so he won’t dare to say anything to the police. He’ll go to jail quietly.”

“Okay, good.”

Rayna followed Jeremy and the others to the ward, but they did not enter the room. Instead, they stood outside. Rayna stood on her tiptoes and peeked inside to see Curtis lying on the bed.

He was wearing a hospital gown, and his face was pale. Her heart clenched to see that he was still unconscious.

“Relax, Ms. Garland,” Jeremy said softly as he patted Rayna’s shoulder, “This is not your fault, so don’t be so hard on yourself. Medical treatment is so advanced nowadays. When Curtis wakes up, we’ll send him abroad to receive treatment for his legs.”

“You’re right. I was just too upset.” Rayna wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes. Jeremy is right. If the doctors in the country cannot treat him, maybe the doctors abroad can find him suitable treatments.

Rayna pursed her lips and said, “However, I am also partially responsible for Mr. Faymon’s accident. I’ll stay here and take care of him until he wakes up and I’ll also pay for his treatment in the future.”

Wyatt joked, “Your sense of responsibility makes it seem like you want to take Curtis as your wife.”

Rayna was at a loss for words.

“Can you just shut up?” Jeremy rolled his eyes in annoyance at Wyatt.

Upon seeing Theodore staring gloomily at the hospital room, Jeremy said, “Theodore, how about…”

Just as he spoke, a commotion could be heard from the other end of the hallway.

A bodyguard rushed over and said, “A woman wants to come in. She said she is Mr. Faymon’s fiancée.”

“Why is Curtis so lucky this year? He’s got beauties following him wherever he goes.” Wyatt jokingly huffed as he ignored Jeremy’s look of disdain while the latter asked the bodyguard to let the woman in.

Theodore’s fingers twitched at the side of his pants as his lifeless eyes stared at the hospital room.

Soon, the bodyguard brought a young woman over. She wore a gray linen skirt with a thin shawl over her shoulders. She had delicate and elegant features and looked to be a dignified and beautiful woman.