Ch. 171..180

Chapter 171

Chapter 171 Pays For What He Did

Rayna turned and left at breakneck speed, with her heart rapidly beating against her chest.

In reality, she had developed feelings for Curtis, especially after finding out about the night at Tyrandas. However, the moment Curtis was about to say something to her, she chickened out and could only think of running away.

When she reached the main house, her cheeks were still flushed red. Right after she pressed the doorbell, a pair of hands shot out from behind and grabbed her. Her mouth and nose were covered as she was dragged into a dark corner.

“Mmph!” Rayna struggled with all her might after she processed what was happening to her. Her efforts were in vain as the person behind her was exceptionally strong.

The door to the main house then flung open, but there was no one to be seen.

“I thought I heard someone press the doorbell just now,” mumbled the housekeeper. She looked left and right several times. Upon seeing that there was really no one around, she thought she had heard wrongly and swiftly went back into the house.

Rayna was dragged to a warehouse nearby.

She knew that once she was locked up inside, it would be hard for her to escape. Calming herself down and recalling the moves that James had taught her, Rayna hurled a back fist at her assailant with the aid of the moonlight.

A pained grunt was heard. From his voice, Rayna guessed that it was a man. As his grip loosened, Rayna took the chance to land another blow on his abdomen with her elbow. When the man released her, she scrambled toward the exit desperately.

“Help!”

Shouting at the top of her lungs, Rayna was about to get out of there, but she was dragged back by the hair again.

She located the ring on her finger and quickly tapped on it.

The ring had been given to her by James for emergencies. She could only pray that James would notice and call her. Then, the housekeepers would go and look for her at the pond.

I have to buy herself more time!

The man cursed furiously and twisted Rayna’s arm toward her back mercilessly, snapping them in the process.

Intense pain shot up from Rayna’s wrists to her whole body. She let out a high-pitched scream.

The man threw her on the floor and closed the door. The warehouse was shrouded in complete darkness for a few seconds, but it soon became bright again.

“Rayna, no one will hear you even if you scream until your voice turns hoarse.” He crouched in front of Rayna and reached out to pat her face. “Everyone has gone over to the pond, and the door of the main house is soundproof.”

Rayna looked up and saw Jason, who was behaving arrogantly and seemed to be very pleased with himself. “This is the Faymon residence. Do you think Curtis will let you off for harming me?”

“It doesn’t matter as long as you don’t die.” Jason laughed freely. Evidently, he did not care at all. “Even if he finds out, the worst he can do is punish me for it. What else do you think he can do to me? Do you think he’s some hotshot? He’s just an adopted orphan while I have the Faymon blood flowing in my veins. Even Uncle Alfred wouldn’t dare to do anything to me.”

“Look at you. You poor thing,” said Rayna, full of pity. “You said it yourself. You’re a Faymon, yet you don’t hold a candle against Curtis. You’re in your twenties, but you don’t have any skills or talents to shout about. It’s no wonder why your dad likes your brother but not you.”

“Say that again!” Jason’s face darkened considerably as he held Rayna’s chin roughly.

“I said you’re such a pitiful boy!” Rayna repeated herself. “You’re aware that you’re such a failure. Since you can’t get the upper hand against Curtis, you chose to bully a weak woman like me instead!”

“I’ll kill you!” Jason was livid. He slapped Rayna hard a few times, then threw her onto the floor and started strangling her. It was as if he really wanted her dead.

Rayna couldn’t breathe properly with Jason on top of her. It was useless no matter how much she struggled.

Her consciousness started fading away.

When he noticed that Rayna’s breathing was getting weaker, Jason sniggered and let go of her. “I told you. I won’t let you die. Whatever Curtis has done to me, I’ll repay him a hundredfold by taking it out on you!”

The incident at the club a few weeks ago, coupled with the humiliation he suffered earlier, had filled his heart with burning hatred and a desire for vengeance. Now that Rayna had fallen into his hands, there was no way he would forego such a precious chance for revenge.

Jason took out his phone, turned on the video recording function, and aimed it at Rayna.

Rayna instinctively knew what he had in mind. Her face fell as she tried her best to retreat and move away from him. However, he viciously stomped on her ankle, causing her to yelp in pain.

“Look at the camera, Ms. Garland,” teased Jason as he continued applying pressure on her ankle. He was extremely satisfied with Rayna’s painful expression that was shown on the phone screen. “When I’m done, I’ll send you a copy.”

Not one to give in, Rayna spat at the camera and scolded, “Jason Faymon, you’re trash! You’re a waste of air when you’re alive, and you’ll be a waste of space when you’re dead!”

Jason landed a kick squarely on her stomach.

It hurt so much that Rayna’s breathing stopped for a few seconds, and her body curled up even more.

“It’s useless to trash talk, Rayna.” After he continued recording for a while more, Jason set up the phone somewhere high. He then yanked Rayna’s hair to lift her face up. “Why don’t we let the netizens of the whole country admire you, eh?”

“Is this all you can do?” Rayna was unruffled. Instead, she mocked Jason, “There are so many videos on the internet nowadays. I’ll be forgotten in just a few days. Why would I need to be afraid? You, on the other hand, should be scared. I won’t let you off! I’ll make your dad kneel and apologize to me!”

For the first time in his life, Jason was threatened by a woman.

Rayna had successfully angered him to the extreme even if she did not plan on it.

Jason’s face contorted with fury. He hurled Rayna onto the floor again, not caring if she was almost passing out from the pain.

“You b*tch! How dare you threaten me! I’ll make you regret your own words!” said Jason insidiously.

Rayna was earnestly scared now. She squirmed and struggled.

Why isn’t anyone here yet? Did James not call me?

“Jason, you sc*mbag!”

With a twisted smirk, Jason pressed Rayna’s head to the ground so that she could not move. “Come on. Is that all you’ve got?” he jeered.

Rayna screamed and cursed with every vulgar word she knew as she felt utterly disgusted with Jason’s hand that was touching her.

“Go on. Curse me more. I’ll make you wish that you were dead in a while more,” mocked Jason. He then lowered himself and whispered into Rayna’s ear, “Let’s see who’ll come to save you. Hahahaha!”

Enraged, Rayna wanted to spit and curse at him, but her head was pinned to the ground. She panted heavily due to anger.

I’ll make sure this filthy b*stard pays for what he did to me!

Jason had completely lost it by then.

Everyone in his family had been saying that he could not compare to Curtis and that he was useless. It did not matter to him now.

Haha! I’ll have the last laugh!

Right then, the steel door crackled. It was then cut through by a laser!

The warehouse was brightly lit. The two figures on the floor astounded everyone who was standing at the door.

Curtis’ gaze swept over Rayna. His expression immediately became grim and terrifying. “Turn around!”

Everyone turned around in an instant.

Jason did not expect anyone to come to Rayna’s rescue. Just when he turned to face Curtis, the latter took out a pistol from under his wheelchair and pulled the trigger.

“Curtis, no!” Alfred tugged on his hand.

The shot missed its original spot and landed on Jason’s right shoulder instead. Curtis’ gaze darkened as he swiftly planted another bullet into Jason’s thigh.

Chapter 172

Chapter 172 Jealous

Jason screamed in pain. He let go of Rayna and collapsed onto the ground. Blood dripped from his gunshot wounds as his body twitched uncontrollably.

Curtis wheeled himself quickly into the warehouse to look for Rayna, only to see her lying motionless on the ground, looking dazed and pale. His heart twisted in pain when he saw her condition. Mustering his strength, he lifted her and wrapped her with a blanket.

“It’s okay. Everything’s fine now,” Curtis gently comforted her while caressing her hair. “I won’t let him off the hook.”

Without looking back, Curtis brought Rayna out and left the warehouse.

“You idiot! How dumb can you be!” Alfred was riled by his nephew’s foolishness. He felt as though he would suffer a heart attack anytime from the rising blood pressure. He turned his head toward the housekeeper and hollered, “Get a doctor over quickly!”

Curtis brought Rayna home and carried her to the bathroom. He realized both her hands were limp; her wrists had been dislocated during the incident earlier. He clenched his jaw, wishing he had put a shot straight into Jason’s chest earlier.

“It’ll hurt. Bear with the pain for a bit, okay?” Curtis said.

After locating the disjointed bones in Rayna’s wrists, Curtis shifted them back into their original places in a swift action.

“Ouch!” Startled by the pain, Rayna regained consciousness, her forehead perspiring excessively. She slowly blinked and tried to make sense of the current situation. When she realized she was being held in Curtis’ arms, her eyes grew moist from the relief she felt.

Before that, her mind was blank, and she had no clue about what had happened.

“It’s all right. It won’t hurt anymore.” Curtis kissed her hands gently, without caring that they were covered with filth. Rayna, however, felt embarrassed and quickly withdrew her hands.

Seeing that the bathtub had been filled, Curtis said, “Have a nice relaxing bath. I’ll have someone to get some clothes for you.”

“Don’t leave, please?” Rayna tugged the corner of Curtis’ shirt. After what she had been through, she became a bit paranoid. “J-Just stay here. I’ll…”

She did not want to be left alone.

“Okay,” Curtis agreed. He proceeded to call the housekeeper, his back facing the bathtub the entire time.

Rayna overheard the conversation Curtis had with the housekeeper. Her face blushed when she heard Curtis get all her body measurements right.

How does he know my measurements? I’m overthinking; he must have guessed them.

After she soaked in the bath for a while, Rayna’s stiff body finally relaxed. Looking at the faint red marks on her chest, she felt overwhelmingly disgusted, making her nauseous.

Curtis could hear that Rayna was feeling unwell. He clenched his fingers but did not want to overreact.

He asked softly, “Are you hurt?”

“No.” Rayna took a deep breath and tried to calm down. She did not want Curtis to worry about her. “Mr. Faymon, how did you find me?”

“All thanks to your brother,” Curtis replied. “Your brother called you, and the housekeeper answered the call. When the housekeeper couldn’t find you at the pond, she passed the phone to me.”

“Looks like my plan was successful.” Her heart shuddered as she looked at the ring on her finger. “To think I almost didn’t wear it and wanted to leave it at home… It saved my life.”

“What is it? Can I take a look?”

Rayna stretched out her hand so that Curtis could see the ring. “My brother gave me this ring. I don’t know what modification he did to it. He asked me to tap it if I’m in danger.”

The ring looked no different from a normal ring. In fact, it looked like it was made of inferior quality.

Curtis stared at the ring for a while and suddenly recalled the phone call with Rayna’s brother. The voice seemed vaguely familiar.

“What’s your brother’s name?”

“James Griffith,” Rayna answered, feeling puzzled. “Why do you suddenly ask my brother’s name?”

Curtis took out his phone and showed Rayna a photo. “Is that him?”

The youth in the photo was undoubtedly James. It looked like an identification picture. He had a solemn expression.

“Yes, that’s my brother.” Rayna was a little shocked. She looked up at Curtis. “M-Mr. Faymon, why do you have a picture of my brother? Don’t tell me…”

She was slightly flustered, and her thoughts began to run wild.

Seeing her stammering nervously, Curtis burst out laughing. He cupped the back of her head with his hand and pulled her close to him. “Do you want to test my sexual orientation?”

Curtis’ deep and magnetic voice sounded particularly sexy.

Rayna’s face flushed redder as she felt Curtis’ breath. “I-I think there’s no need for that.”

Curtis chuckled lightly, amused at her reaction. From the corner of his eye, he could see the faint red marks on her chest. His gaze turned dark, and a glint of murderous intent flashed across his eyes.

“Enjoy your bath.” Curtis gently stroked her hair. “We’ll settle those matters when you feel better. Even if his father speaks up for him, I won’t let him off.”

Rayna felt uneasy. “Why don’t we—”

“No way. I know what you’re thinking,” Curtis interrupted her coldly. “I’ve already given him a chance. Rayna, even if the Faymon family is torn apart, it has nothing to do with you.”

Rayna could only nod her head.

She knew she could not change Curtis’ mind, but she feared he might go overboard and cause his relationship with the Faymon family members to sour. She planned not to pursue it further. However, since Curtis was bent on seeking justice for her, she had no reason to insist on being a saint.

Besides, given her personality, she would not forgive Jason either.

Remembering that Curtis had not answered her earlier question, she asked again, “Mr. Faymon, you haven’t told me how you came to know my brother and why you have his photo.”

“I had him do something for me previously.” The sister-brother relationship between Rayna and James was new information to Curtis. He guessed that Rayna probably did not know what James had been involved in, so he gave a vague answer.

“He’s just a student. What can he help you with?” Curtis’ vague reply stirred Rayna’s curiosity further.

Curtis turned his gaze toward Rayna’s ring and did not say anything.

“Oh, I get it,” Rayna concluded based on Curtis’ reaction. “My brother has always been interested in this kind of stuff. He excelled at natural sciences during high school. I always thought he would become a scientist in the future and contribute to society. Mr. Faymon, he’s very busy with his schoolwork, so please be lenient with him.”

She continued after a slight pause, “I hope you can promise me something. If he comes to you with an ambitious idea, please don’t indulge him! Our family is not short of money, and I don’t expect him to be a high achiever too. I only want him to lead a carefree life.”

Curtis became curious. “Ambitious idea? For example?”

Rayna explained, “You know boys his age can be very eager at times. Especially if he gets to know Cillian, I fear he will have thoughts of joining the military or becoming a bodyguard. I won’t be able to have peace of mind if he decides to head in that direction.”

Curtis chuckled.

You really have no clue what your brother is doing. Not only does Cillian know your brother, but he also has to call him boss!

Rayna became confused when she saw Curtis laughing. “Mr. Faymon, did I say something wrong? Why are you laughing?”

“Nothing’s wrong. I just felt that it’s tough on you, being an older sister,” Curtis replied while trying to suppress his laughter. “You worry about your brother all day, fearing he might go astray.”

“Well, hasn’t he already?” Rayna lamented as thoughts of James’ sexual orientation came to mind. “I don’t understand why he’s not interested in any of the adorable girls around him. I don’t know how to

tell my mother about this. Speaking of which, I used to dislike Ms. Winton. But looking at my brother now, I thought she might be a good fit for him. By the way, Mr. Faymon, Ms. Winton seems to have someone she likes.”

Curtis raised his brows. “Really? How come I’m not aware of that?”

“That’s because I’m the one she approached, not you!” Rayna rolled her eyes at Curtis, resting her chin on her palm. “She looked for me twice, and each time she threw me a check, telling me to break off with someone called Gray Wolf. She even said it was shameless of me to be in a relationship with someone much younger.”

Rayna sighed before continuing, “I found it to be so absurd. I don’t even know who this other boyfriend is. Afterward, I thought about it and guessed Ms. Winton most probably likes someone. But the person doesn’t feel the same way and decided to use my name as a shield. That must be why Ms. Winton misunderstood and came to find me. Besides, who would call himself Gray Wolf? Isn’t that weird?”

“She really said that to you?” Curtis asked.

Curtis had been wondering why Kristie had suddenly stopped clinging to him. After listening to Rayna’s story, he understood why—Kristie had found a new target.

 

Chapter 173

Chapter 173 She Is My Sister

“That’s right. I still have the check in my bag!” Rayna replied.

A sudden thought came into Curtis’ mind. He posed another question to Rayna. “Why do you think your brother is homosexual?”

“Because of that time when I called him to come home for a meal,” Rayna mumbled. “The person who answered the call seems to be a girl. She had a bad temper and said I was disturbing her. I asked my brother if the girl was his girlfriend. He denied it and claimed that the person was his roommate, who happened to have a high-pitched voice. Afterward…”

Rayna rested against the side of the bathtub and sighed. “When I asked more, he started to hem and haw. That was when I knew something was up.”

“Which day was it?”

“Huh? Why do you ask about the day? It should be Wednesday, I think.”

Curtis rubbed his chin, recalling the Wednesday morning Kristie had sent him several text messages. She was complaining about Gray Wolf abandoning her for a date with another woman when he was her bodyguard and supposed to protect her at all times.

So she was following James then and thought Rayna was his girlfriend?

Very soon, Curtis made sense of everything. He casually remarked, “Trust me. Your brother is straight as a stick.”

“Why is that so?” Rayna inched closer to Curtis, curious about his claim.

“Instinct.”

Rayna could not help but burst out laughing. “If you’re a woman, I’ll hundred percent trust your instinct. But Mr. Faymon, you’re a man, so I don’t believe you!”

“Well, just don’t dwell too much on it.” Curtis did not say anything more. Some things were better left for James to explain personally. “Don’t be too shocked if he brings a girl and introduces her to you in the future.”

Rayna waved her hand. “Nah, I won’t interfere as long as he likes her. It doesn’t matter if she’s not pretty; she can make it up with her intelligence! It doesn’t matter what kind of girl she is as long as she’s not like Ms. Winton. Girls like Ms. Winton tend to be whiny. They’re more suitable to be married to prestigious families and be pampered by their husbands. My brother is so easygoing. He’ll be bullied if he has a girlfriend like Ms. Winton.”

Rayna rambled on for a while before realizing Curtis was looking at her oddly. She knew she had spoken too much and hastily explained, “Mr. Faymon, please don’t get me wrong. I don’t mean anything in particular. I’m just giving an example!”

Curtis simply hummed in response.

He would love to see Rayna’s shocked expression if she knew who exactly James’ girlfriend was.

Curtis would not consent if Kristie got together with a man like Cillian. But James was different. He was outstanding in several aspects, and it helped that he was Rayna’s brother too.

Curtis’ dull response baffled Rayna.

She was about to probe further when a phone rang.

Curtis took the phone from his pocket and looked at it before passing it to Rayna. “It’s your phone.”

“Mine?” Rayna had forgotten that her phone was with Curtis. She took the phone from him and saw that it was James calling. “Hello, James.”

“Rayna, are you all right?” James asked concerningly.

With a faint smile, Rayna replied, “I’m fine, thanks to your timely call.”

“Did anyone touch you?” James asked while suppressing his anger. “Are you hurt? I’ll go find you tomorrow.”

“I’m genuinely fine,” Rayna assured. “You must concentrate in school, okay? Oh, remember to give Mom a call. I most probably won’t be able to go back tonight.”

James hummed in acknowledgment. “I called Mom earlier. She mentioned Julian visited her and gifted her some pastries.”

Rayna was startled. “Just pastries? Nothing else?”

She did not expect Julian to visit her mother with pastries instead of coming to the Faymon residences to celebrate Thanksgiving.

“And hundreds of thousand in cash.” James began to sound agitated. “He said something about letting you down. After what he did, he still had the cheek to think about reconciling with you. What audacity! When I’m free, I’ll help Mom shift to another place so she won’t be bothered by annoying people.”

“All right, I’ll let you handle this matter.”

Before ending the call, James suddenly asked, “Rayna, are you with Mr. Faymon now?”

“I am.” Rayna felt a little guilty for some reason. “Don’t get the wrong idea. I’m only helping Mr. Faymon to settle some matters. Nothing more.”

James kept silent for a while before answering, “Have an early night, Rayna.” And then he ended the call.

Meanwhile, at some ceremony across the globe in Pillere, James was looking at his phone with a darkened expression.

Forty minutes ago, he suddenly received an urgent notification on his phone. The tracker, which he had given Rayna in the form of a ring, had been activated, and he had immediately called her then.

Initially, it was the housekeeper who answered the call, and the phone was passed to someone else after that.

He was surprised when he first heard Curtis’ voice. But because of the urgent situation, he sought Curtis’ assistance to check on Rayna first. After he calmed down and thought about it, he felt something was amiss.

It wasn’t until the call with Rayna only did he discover that his sister seemed to have a close relationship with Curtis all this while. He also found out Rayna was the only employee with the last name Garland in the translation department of Faymon Group.

Does that mean the person I was tasked with protecting during the trip with Curtis in Tyrandas was my sister?

Just as James was lost in thought, Kristie, who had been searching high and low for him, came over. “I’ve been looking for you the entire day. What are you doing here? Anyway, let’s go back now. My legs are aching.”

While Kristie was complaining and whining, she lost her balance on her stilettos and lurched toward James. Before she could regain stability, she felt a firm grip on her arm.

“Stupid Gray Wolf, you’re hurting me!”

James did not seem to notice Kristie’s pain. His face darkened, and he asked her solemnly, “The woman whom you made fun of in Tyrandas, was she called Rayna?”

Kristie was stunned by James’ terrifying expression.

She thought he was condemning her for bullying his girlfriend, so she became nervous and started to mumble, “I didn’t want to be mean to her. It was her fault for behaving like a vixen and pestering Curt non-stop. Also, she was clearly in the wrong for cheating on you! Since you both have broken up, and she accepted my check, why are you still speaking up for her and lecturing me?”

James grabbed her and pushed her against the wall. His eyes were cold and terrifying. He gritted his teeth and bellowed, “She’s my sister!”

“You’re too much! Curt doesn’t even treat me this way!” Kristie screamed in pain as her back knocked hard against the wall. However, very quickly, a sudden realization hit Kristie. She stared at James with wide eyes. “What did you just say?”

He and Rayna are siblings?

“Kristie, I’m warning you. If you dare lay a finger on my sister again, I will not let you off even though you’re a woman!” James hissed at her coldly and shoved her a bank card. “You can withdraw three million from here. As for the remaining seven million, I’ll have someone transfer to you in seven days!” With that, James walked off without looking back.

Seeing that James was leaving, Kristie panicked. She stumbled toward him and tugged his shirt. “I-I didn’t know she was your sister. Anyway, I didn’t do anything to her.”

“Let go.” James’ voice was icy and distant.

“I admit it was my fault for being too willful then. I’m willing to apologize to your sister.” Kristie tightened her grip on James’ shirt. “We’re in Pillere now. Aren’t you afraid of me getting into danger after you leave? What if I get bullied?”

James forcefully pried open Kristie’s fingers and pushed her away. “You can go out and hail a taxi back to the hotel. Oh, you should call Mr. Faymon. I’m sure he will take care of you.”

“No, I don’t want that!” Kristie lunged forward and hugged his waist tightly. She began to wail frantically, “I only want you! Please don’t leave me. I can apologize to your sister a hundred times or until you’re satisfied.”

All along, Kristie had been treated like a princess by the people around her. She had never had to beg anyone in this manner before. It was the first time she had felt afraid of losing someone.

“I like you, Gray Wolf.”

“Ms. Winton, I don’t deserve your affection!” James rejected Kristie heartlessly.

He pushed her away and strode out. He did not even care when Kristie fell to the ground.

 

Chapter 174

Chapter 174 Why The Hell Are You Crying

“Come back here!” Kristie exclaimed frantically.

She finally got to her feet after removing her cumbersome heels and rushed to keep up.

By the time she reached the empty streets, James was nowhere to be found.

“Why won’t you listen to me, you stupid Gray Wolf! I didn’t do it on purpose.” Kristie sobbed profusely as she took in the desolate scene around her.

She had no idea that they were siblings.

Kristie crouched down and burst into uncontrollable tears as she was overcome with the indignity she’d suffered.

He’s too much!

How could he abandon me in such an unfamiliar place?

Several blonde-haired youths who were passing by noticed Kristie weeping by the road. They took in her flawlessly fair skin and exchanged glances before making their way toward her.

One of the youths crouched down beside Kristie and asked in broken Anglandurn, “Hey, why are you crying?”

Kristie raised her head and was repulsed by their hoodlum-like behavior. “How does this concern you? Leave me alone!”

She stood up and prepared to leave.

“Come on, don’t go! Let’s have some fun together!” The youth grabbed Kristie.

“Get your filthy hands off me!” Kristie shrieked as she slapped his hand off her. The youths started encircling her as if she were part of their gang to avoid attracting too much attention.

They were about to coerce her to go along with them when a tall and broad figure appeared menacingly.

“Let her go.”

The youths were annoyed at being disrupted. “Who the hell are you? She’s ours now, so get out of our —”

The youth did not get to finish his sentence, as he was punched in the face.

Before any one of the youths could react, they were already lying on the ground whining in pain with aches in various parts of their body.

Once he was done thrashing the delinquents, James pulled Kristie along with him stonily and strode off.

“Slow down. I can’t keep up.” Kristie stumbled behind him and cast him a sidelong glance. She had not foreseen his return.

She sniffled and added, “I’ll apologize to your sister once I’m back in the country. I’m aware of my mistake, so please tell me that you won’t leave me.”

James ignored her.

Kristie cried out in pain and tripped.

She would have fallen if James had not supported her. His face was lined with impatience. “What is it again?”

I must be out of my mind. Why did I come all the way back here out of concern for her safety?

She’s indeed a worrisome creature. How senseless is she to be out crying in such cold weather? To think she managed to draw the attention of a bunch of thugs! She’d be done for if I hadn’t been there.

Kristie whimpered piteously. “I think I hurt my feet.”

It was only then that he noticed that she was barefooted. Her pale soles were covered in dirt, while her left one had been cut by shards and was bleeding ceaselessly.

He was ticked off. “Why aren’t you wearing your shoes? Are you daft?”

“That’s it! I’ve had enough of your temper!” Kristie was at her limit. “It’s all thanks to your vanishing act! I wouldn’t have been able to walk at all if I’d continued wearing my heels.”

In the next second, she put on a pitiful look as she clung to his arm. “Come now, don’t be mad at me. I’ll do anything you say if you stop being angry.”

“Get your hands off of me.”

“I don’t want to! Carry me. I can’t walk and my foot is bleeding!”

“I’ll hail a cab.”

“I’m having a migraine right now and can’t stand sitting in a car!”

No matter what James suggested, Kristie hung onto him stubbornly as if she feared he’d escape. In the end, he was left with no choice but to carry her back to the hotel on foot.

Once they reached the hotel room, James helped tend to Kristie’s wounds. He then placed some medication and a glass of warm water on the side table.

“These are your pills. Remember to take them later. I’ve sent a message to Cillian. He’ll be here tomorrow morning.”

“But I want you and only you!” Kristie held his arm. “Please don’t leave me. I’ll apologize to your sister all night if that’s what it takes to make you stay right now.”

She was about to make the call when James held onto her hand. “Ms. Winton, that won’t be necessary.”

“Everyone makes mistakes. You can’t just condemn me without giving me a second chance.” Kristie’s tears flowed freely. “Besides, she was guilty of bullying me too.”

“Why the hell are you crying? I didn’t even so much as reprimand you.” James was vexed. “Stop it!”

Kristie’s wails increased in volume. Her make-up continued to smear even further when she wiped away her tears, so much so that her face had a comical look to it.

“Says who? You’re too much! Jeremy and Wyatt don’t even raise their voice against me. You’re the only one who’s let me shed these many tears. This is the first time I’ve been so upset! I even hurt my foot because of you!”

James’ eyebrows twitched as he relented in exasperation, “Stop crying. I’ll stay with you.”

Kristie instantly did as told. “I’m hungry.”

James had intended to call for room service but had to compromise when Kristie made a fuss about it. Ultimately, he changed her room into a condominium service suite and requested some ingredients to be delivered.

Kristie held onto him from behind as he cooked in the kitchen.

“I need to prepare our meal.”

“Go ahead. I won’t be in your way,” Kristie said. “I’m just afraid you’ll run away.”

James let her be.

Kristie got bolder as she took advantage of James’ silence as consent to feel him up. He finally put a stop to her advances by grabbing hold of her hand just as she was reaching under his shirt.

James’ face was as dark as a nimbus cloud. “Can you please stop fooling around?”

“It’s just a little touch.”

“Keep this up and I’ll stop cooking.”

Kristie pursed her lips. “I don’t mind you returning the favor!”

James managed to put together a three-course meal despite the limited ingredients available. Kristie licked her bowl clean and was pacified for merely ten minutes before pestering for a shower.

James shut her down. “That will have to wait till tomorrow. Your foot cannot be exposed to water.”

“But I’m all sweaty. I don’t feel comfortable sleeping in such a state.”

“No way.”

“Gray Wolf, you’re unbelievable!”

Kristie tackled James, hitting and biting him. Her tactic worked as James grew so sick of her harrying that he let her do as she wished.

James supported Kristie by the hand into the bathroom and went out to get a bathrobe.

He was caught off guard by how swiftly Kristie had undressed by the time he returned.

Her skin was pearlescent, and her body had just the right amount of softness despite being slim. Her back would have been flawless if not for the ugly scar that resembled a millipede stretching across it.

James had barely caught a glance before he turned his back to her. “I’ll leave the bathrobe here.”

“Don’t you dare take a step out!” Kristie yelled. “You have to monitor me. What if I slip and drown in the bathtub?”

Chapter 175

Chapter 175 The Past Of Kristie

James shot her an indifferent look. “No, thanks.”

“Why are you so wary of me? What do you think I’ll do to you?” Kristie grumbled in dissatisfaction.

Jeez, it’s not like I’m going to do anything to you.

Back when they were staying at the condominium, James had always watched over Kristie when she slept. However, at that time, she was wearing pajamas, unlike now.

Under such circumstances, he couldn’t help but peek at her.

Even though he knew he shouldn’t do so, he couldn’t control himself.

“What’s with the injury on your lower back?” James asked casually to distract himself.

Kristie froze for a split second when she heard his question. The look in her eyes changed. Then she pointed at his face and yelled, “You perv! How do you know I have an injury on my lower back?”

James cleared his throat, feeling helpless. “I accidentally saw it just now.”

“But you did see it! I don’t care! You have to be responsible for me!” Kristie pouted as she lifted her head to stare at him.

“What exactly happened?” James asked again, pretending not to hear what she had said.

“It’s just an old injury.” Kristie, lying in the bathtub, replied in feigned nonchalance. “All thanks to that injury, I’m living a good life now.”

James sensed something was wrong with her. However, he didn’t want to question her further to make her uncomfortable. “Enjoy your bath,” he responded instead.

Kristie shot him a look. “I know it was stated in my profile that I have a good family background, but it was all forged by Curt. I don’t even know my mom’s identity. The only thing that I know is that my dad is a pimp.”

James pursed his lips. He didn’t expect Kristie to have a backstory like that.

“That man had affairs with different women and impregnated them. If they give birth to a baby boy, he’ll sell the boy. If it’s a baby girl, he’ll put her in a barbershop and find someone to raise them, and then they’ll have to work and earn money for him when they grow up,” Kristie shared. “Because I was pretty, he thought it’d be a waste for me to stay in the barbershop. So he sold me to DM Premium Club for one million on my seventh birthday…”

Those painful memories from her past flooded her mind. It was as though someone had ripped her wound apart, and she could barely hold herself together.

James couldn’t bear to see her recalling her painful past. “You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to,” he uttered in a deep voice.

Kristie shut her eyes and went on, “The boss of the club thought I’d look even prettier when I grew up, so he sent me to school and had me learn different musical instruments until I was thirteen.”

On her thirteenth birthday, the boss of DM found a buyer, and they were willing to pay ten million to buy Kristie out.

She knew if she were to be bought out, she would become nothing more than a toy, and her life would be ruined. She would rather die than become a man’s toy.

“I initially wanted to burn the club down, but the buyer had something to do and didn’t show up that day.” Kristie still had lingering fears whenever she thought about what had happened that night. “Then my savior was here. When I was heading back, I saw a few people coming into the club and going to the private room on the third floor to discuss business. That was the first time I met Curt. At first glance, I was certain he’d be able to save me, so I followed them.”

At that time, she just wanted to find a chance to approach Curtis. She was even willing to sell herself to him if he could save her. However, never had she expected that she would run into an accident.

Curtis had only brought a man with him that day. When his man went out to answer his call, only Curtis, Kristie, and four men from the other party were left in the room. Just as one of the men was talking, he swiftly pulled out a knife and charged toward Curtis.

At that moment, Kristie was pouring liquor for Curtis at the side. She didn’t know what she was thinking, but when she saw the man charge toward Curtis with a knife in his hand, she pounced on Curtis.

Then, she passed out from the sharp pain and didn’t know what had happened afterward.

One week had passed when Kristie woke up. Curtis’ assistant visited her in the hospital and asked her what she wanted as compensation. Kristie shook her head and said she just wanted to meet Curtis.

After waiting in the hospital for a few days, she finally met Curtis. She didn’t bother to hide anything and told him her intentions. Curtis didn’t say a thing but proceeded to order his assistant to arrange accommodation and a housekeeper for her.

Later, Kristie attended school again under the arrangement of Curtis and even signed with the entertainment company under Faymon Group.

Just like that, she had remained by Curtis’ side since she was fourteen. When they got closer, she wasn’t as reserved anymore and started to act playfully. Then she met Theodore, and both of them

accepted her as though she were their little sister.

After hearing Kristie’s backstory, James felt his throat tighten and didn’t know what to say.

He didn’t expect her to have a dark past given her superiority complex and bad temper.

If the buyer did show up at the club that day, would she perish together with the club?

“What’s with your expression?” Kristie was feeling slightly uncomfortable when she saw James staring at her compassionately. “If you really feel sorry for me, why don’t you let me touch your abs? Even though I’ve been by Curt’s side for so long, he only sees me the same as his assistant. I’ve put in so much effort all these years, but I still lost to your sister. How frustrating!”

Back then, she really did like Curtis. She had put in so much effort and wanted nothing more than to marry him. However, after that, she finally realized that she loved Curtis like a brother, and it was nothing romantic.

Even if Curtis kissed another woman in front of her, she felt nothing.

Kristie was just teasing James just now. However, he darted toward her and lifted his shirt, exposing his muscular abs.

“You can touch it.”

“Are you for real?” Kristie couldn’t believe her ears. She stretched her hands out and started caressing his abs. His abs felt hard to her touch, and she was delighted by the sensation she felt. “Finally! Some of the actors claimed they have abs, but some of their stomachs are as hard as a stone, and some are just sagging fat!”

James was slightly irritated when he heard her words. He refused to let her touch his abs anymore.

“What’s wrong?” Kristie was somewhat upset when she saw him pulling down his shirt. “It hasn’t even been twenty seconds.”

“Nothing’s wrong.”

Kristie’s eyes twinkled when she saw James’ reaction. “Are you jealous?” she teased while smiling mischievously.

“No, I’m not.”

“Are you sure? I can tell that you’re jealous!”

James didn’t want to quarrel with her. He turned around and was about to leave when an idea struck Kristie. She stood up instantly and pretended to fall into the bathtub with a loud thud. “Ouch!”

James immediately turned around when he heard Kristie. He hurried over to help her when he saw that she couldn’t get up from the bathtub. “Stop moving around and take a bath properly!” He couldn’t help but raise his voice at her.

“I didn’t do it on purpose,” Kristie said. She wrapped her arms around his neck as she spoke and refused to let him leave. “I didn’t ask for it. I was merely acting out a scene written in the script. I’ll be criticized if I use a body double to act out a scene like this, so I had no choice but to do it myself. Besides, I’d always sanitize myself after doing a scene.”

Upon hearing her explanation, James relaxed his brows. “Why are you telling me this?”

“I just don’t want you to be jealous,” she breathed as her hand slithered under his shirt again. “Let me touch your abs again!”

“Stop messing around.” With that, James turned around and walked out the door. “I’m going to check if the bedroom is safe.”

Kristie was at a loss for words.

 

Chapter 176

Chapter 176 This Is So Embarrassing

Rayna had a nightmare again.

This time, she woke up to find herself clinging to Curtis like a sloth.

They had split the bed into two sides. Curtis was still sleeping on his side with his hands crossed on his abdomen. On the other hand, Rayna, a terrible sleeper, had occupied his space.

Her face flushed. She quickly moved her leg away from him and inched to the side. Is he having a deep sleep?

Rayna looked at Curtis and realized he was still sound asleep. Looking at his long eyelashes and alluring Adam’s apple, she had the urge to touch it, and she did.

In the next second, the man grasped her wrist.

Curtis gave her a sideway glance and said in his raspy voice, “Ms. Garland, do you like to touch people’s Adam’s apple that much? What bad habit is this?”

“I’m just curious.” Rayna smiled sheepishly. “Mr. Faymon, you slept very soundly.”

“I only fell asleep at five in the morning.” Curtis flashed her a half-smile. “Someone couldn’t sleep properly and kept nuzzling up against me. She even kicked me off the bed once.”

Rayna was dumbfounded. I guess he’s not lying to me, judging from my pose when I woke up this morning.

“Um, I’m gonna go wash up.” Rayna made up an excuse to sneak away. Yet, as soon as she got up, Curtis pulled her toward himself.

While grabbing her hand, Curtis stared at her intently. “Aren’t you going to compensate me?”

“I-I-I will,” Rayna stuttered uncontrollably. Her body stiffened as she felt too embarrassed in that position. “I’ll prepare meals for you when we—mmph!”

Curtis forced her to lean down, then pressed his lips against hers.

Rayna’s heart pounded wildly when she felt his breath. Although she felt a little nervous, she couldn’t help responding to his kiss.

After that kiss, Rayna propped her hands on either side of the man’s head. “Mr. Faymon, if you don’t mind…”

She wanted to tell him something.

Curtis stared at Rayna intently to give her courage. She prepared herself and was about to continue when she suddenly felt something warm flowing in her lower abdomen. I think…

Curtis seemed to have felt it too, and his expression changed subtly.

Rayna scrambled out of Curtis. When she saw the bloodstain on his smokey-grey pajamas, she covered her face with her hands. “Oh my gosh! This is so embarrassing!”

“It’s not like this is my first time seeing you being embarrassed.” Curtis appeared nonchalant. There was a glint in his eyes as he looked at the blood on his pajamas. “It gives me a good idea.”

Rayna didn’t care about what was on his mind. She hurried to the bathroom to calm herself down.

After Rayna finished washing up and walked out, she saw a doctor in the bedroom, chatting with Curtis, who was in his wheelchair. They seemed to have finished their conversation the moment she approached them.

Rayna uttered, “I just got my period. Mr. Faymon, aren’t you exaggerating by getting a doctor here?”

Despite saying so, she felt a little touched.

After the doctor left, Curtis said, “I invited the doctor for something else. You just need to sit next to me and watch when we go down later. Don’t say anything.”

Rayna was a tad disappointed, so she only hummed in acknowledgment.

A group of people had already gathered in the living room when they went downstairs. Compared to the lively atmosphere the night before, it was as if dark clouds had loomed over the place at that moment. Everyone had a different expression.

“Curtis.” Chester stepped forward from the crowd, seemingly wanting to tell Curtis something.

Curtis replied in a calm voice, “Let’s talk after breakfast.” As he spoke, he brought Rayna to sit at the dining table before ordering the housekeeper to serve breakfast.

Rayna’s expression turned grim when she noticed Alfred was also in the living room.

She whispered to Curtis, “Should we ask Old Mr. Faymon to come over and have breakfast?”

“Since Chester is here, I bet he won’t be in the mood to eat.” Curtis picked up a spoonful of oatmeal to feed her. “He won’t be starved to death by skipping a meal anyway.”

“Mr. Faymon, I can do it myself.” Rayna wanted to take the spoon from Curtis so she could eat on her own, but he gave her a look, which made her retract her hand. Ugh, fine. I’ll let him feed me, then. Does he have to scare me with that look?

The duo finally went to the living room and sat beside Alfred after they finished their breakfast.

Chester walked over, then lowered his head apologetically and said, “Curtis, it’s my fault for failing to discipline Jason and letting him do such a despicable thing.” It was the first time Rayna had seen him humble himself to make an apology to Curtis.

After that, Chester said to Rayna, “I’m sorry, Ms. Garland. I’ll bring Jason over to give you a sincere apology when he wakes up.”

Curtis’ gaze turned icy. “Uncle Chester, this is not a trivial matter, so it can’t be settled with just an apology.”

“Yes, yes, I know,” Chester responded respectfully. “But Jason is still unconscious until now. He’s severely injured because you shot him twice. We’re a family. Why must—”

“Why must I make a fuss about it? I’ve been going easy on him since he’s my cousin. Yet, he shows me no respect!”

Curtis then asked someone to set up the projector.

A minute later, the projector displayed the video footage of Jason bullying Rayna in a private room. Although the video was muted, everyone in the living room could see whatever had happened through it.

Alfred let out a sigh. “This boy…”

Chester’s expression took on a subtle change. Soon after, he smiled and claimed, “That looks like friends squabbling with each other. Perhaps you’re making a big deal out of it and misunderstood something, Curtis?”

“Uncle Chester, you should get a checkup at the hospital if you’re blind!” Curtis roared without showing Chester any respect. “If I had ignored the fact that we’re family, I would have fired those two shots at

his heart!”

Chester tensed up when he heard that.

“Jason was wrong, but was he the only one in the wrong?” Sienna piped up. “The private room was dimly lit. Jason might have mistaken her for someone.”

“Oh, how about this time, then? Did he mistake her for someone else again? There are street lights every few meters across the road. Is he blind?” Curtis retorted with a smile. “Aunt Sienna, I have no objections to you defending Jason since he’s your nephew. But you have to consider whom he laid his hand on and whether he could do so to that person!”

His words sent a chill down everyone’s spine.

Curtis usually kept a low profile and rarely returned to the Faymon residence. Even if he went back for dinner, he would treat everybody with deference. Everyone was terrified to see him exuding immense murderous intentions that day.

“Curtis, how could you compare that woman with your cousin?” Brooklyn got up from the couch. “Are you even from the Faymon family? How could you side with an outsider? You claimed that Jason did wrong again, but I think Rayna is at fault too! She was married to Julian, and she caused a commotion when they divorced. Who knows if she’s taking revenge on the Faymon family on purpose? Maybe the car accident you got into was orchestrated by her because she intends to take over Faymon Group.”

Rayna’s expression darkened. Curtis held her hand tightly because he didn’t want her to say anything in response.

Alfred yelled, “What nonsense are you spouting? It was an accident. Don’t blame it on Rayna. I’m the one who appointed her to be the acting CEO. Do you have a problem with me?”

 

Chapter 177

Chapter 177 What A Superb Plan

“Uncle Alfred, I’m not spouting nonsense,” Brooklyn stated calmly. “Rayna has been keeping an eye on Curtis after her divorce. Aren’t you curious about that? I even found out that she went to the bar to seduce Curtis before the divorce.”

Upon hearing that, Rayna grew apprehensive. Damn! How did Brooklyn find out about that?

Curtis remained unruffled as he watched Brooklyn take out a document from her bag and hand it over to Alfred. “Uncle Alfred, take a look. They even went to the hotel.” Brooklyn continued to add fuel to the flames. “Julian was wrong for cheating on her. She could have just divorced him. However, she waited for Curtis at the bar with revenge in mind. What a scheming woman.”

After flipping through that document, Alfred shifted his gaze to Curtis. “Is this real?” If what she said was true, it’d be all over.

Irrespective of the fact that Julian and Curtis were related, the behavior of Rayna going to the bar to seduce Curtis was despicable because she and Julian had not divorced yet at that time.

Rayna grew anxious as she noticed the severity of the matter to Curtis.

When she was about to bear the responsibility for it, Curtis tightened his grip on her hand and answered, “No.”

Brooklyn’s face clouded over. “Curtis, you’re lying! Stop covering up for this woman!”

“I was still on the plane that day, so how could I be at the bar?” Curtis’ thin lips curled up slightly. “If you don’t believe me, you can look for the secretary to check my itinerary. Besides, how could you assume that’s me by judging the back profile alone? Perhaps Rayna and Julian had a fight, then Julian went to the bar to find her before they went to the hotel.”

“No way! He’s cheated on Rayna, so why would he go look for her? Even if you’re not the man in the photo, Rayna still had an affair as a married woman! The Faymon family can’t accept a woman like her!”

“Are you and Rayna friends?” Curtis asked patiently.

Brooklyn glanced at Rayna in disgust. “Who in the world would want to be friends with a woman like her?”

“Then you have no idea about her personality,” Curtis uttered nonchalantly. “Julian had cheated on Rayna, but he still had to placate her as she was his wife.”

“Curtis, you’re—”

“Let’s figure it out by asking Julian.” Curtis whipped out his phone. “After all, surveillance footage can be faked. I don’t believe what you’ve said, and the others may not trust my words.”

The call was connected shortly after.

Curtis cut straight to the chase and asked Julian, “Julian, where were you that night? I heard that Rayna went to the bar, and a man took her away. Do you have any idea who he is?”

Rayna’s heart lodged in her throat. She felt nervous and uneasy. Why is he asking Julian about this? What if Julian refuses to cooperate?

“It’s me.” Everyone heard Julian’s words because the phone speaker was turned on. “That night was our first wedding anniversary. We wanted to celebrate it together, but she found out about me cheating on her, so she went to the bar out of anger. After knowing that, I hurried over to look for her. Unexpectedly, she got wasted, so we spent the night at the hotel.”

“Julian!” Brooklyn nearly exploded in anger because he had ruined her perfect plan. “How could you put in a good word for Rayna after how she has treated you? Why didn’t you tell the truth?”

“I’m telling the truth. You all can investigate it as you please.”

Curtis hung up the phone and stared at Brooklyn, who had a grim expression, coldly. “Brooklyn, do you still have anything to say now that Julian has admitted he was the one who brought Rayna to the hotel that night?”

Brooklyn looked around before she fixated her gaze on Rolanda.

“Tell them.” Brooklyn pointed at Rolanda. “Where was Julian that night?”

“I-I don’t know!” Rolanda broke into a cold sweat as she could not afford to offend anyone at the scene. She hated Rayna to the core. How did I end up with such an ex-daughter-in-law?

Curtis uttered, “Just tell the truth. You may not like Rayna, but you’ve known her for so long, so you should know what kind of person she is and whether she’d have an affair.”

Rolanda was no fool. She knew well that Curtis was aloof and taciturn. Now that he’s willing to talk so much with me, I bet he’s trying to make me give my two cents. I need to protect myself as well. Additionally, compared to Brooklyn, I’m more unwilling to let Curtis hold a grudge against me.

After thinking about it carefully, Rolanda replied, “Indeed, I dislike Rayna as her family is poor, and she isn’t worthy of my son. Apart from that, she’s perfect. She’d give half of her salary to me each month and was filial to me. Even if she had a fight with Julian, she’d never cheat on him.”

Brooklyn glared at Rolanda. She would have beaten the latter up if it wasn’t for her identity.

“Brooklyn, I guess that’s all you wanted to know?” Curtis threw daggers at her as he smiled. “Now, let’s talk about Jason’s bullying of my woman.”

Chester knew Curtis wouldn’t accept his apology. He looked at Alfred and said, “Alfred, I understand that Jason has screwed up, but he has received his punishment. As you know, Fiona is not well after giving birth to Jason and has been recuperating at home. I don’t even dare to tell her about this matter because I’m afraid her life will be in danger.”

With tears in his eyes, he went on, “Alfred, I’ve failed to educate my son well.” He then bent his knees, about to kneel on the floor.

“What are you doing?” Alfred tugged Chester’s hand, exasperated. He then turned to Curtis. “Curtis, Jason has been punished for his foolishness, so let it go. We’re family. It’ll be awful if words get out.”

“Dad, are you trying to help Jason beg for mercy? All right. I’ll only forgive him if he returns the child to Rayna!”

Alfred was taken aback by his words. “Don’t tell me…”

“Old Mr. Faymon, Ms. Garland had a miscarriage,” the doctor piped up. “It’s caused by overwhelming shock. Ms. Garland was already in poor health. It’ll probably be difficult for her to get pregnant in the future because of the side effects of her miscarriage.”

Rayna was bereft of speech. So this is what Uncle Curtis was referring to! Whoa! What a superb plan!

Everyone was dumbfounded.

“She looks strong. How is it possible that she had a miscarriage that easily!” Upon regaining her senses, Brooklyn uttered, “Uncle Alfred…”

“That’s enough! Are you trying to make things worse?” Brooklyn was stunned by Alfred’s furious roar. “You’ve been targeting Curtis since the beginning. Are you going to say he got a doctor to lie to younoveldrama

now?” Alfred got up from the couch. “Since everyone is here today, let me say this again. Curtis is my son. I’ll never forgive whoever that bully my son and hurt my grandchild!”

With that, he left and handed over the situation to Curtis. His intention was clear.

When Curtis saw Chester’s dejected expression, he said in a calm voice, “Uncle Chester, Jason killed my child. I don’t want him to pay for it with his own life. I only want him to cut off one of his arms.”

“Curtis, he’s your cousin!” Chester gritted his teeth. “Can’t you just let him go?”

“It’s precisely he’s my cousin that I’m showing him some mercy.” While staring at Chester menacingly, Curtis continued, “Break his arm, or you do it on his behalf.”

He didn’t have the intention to let it slide no matter what.

At that moment, a few tall and muscular bodyguards stormed into the living room. “Mr. Faymon.”

Curtis nodded before he responded nonchalantly, “I’ll have to trouble you guys and the doctor to assist Uncle Chester. I want to see an arm half an hour later.”

“Understood!” the bodyguards answered loudly.

 

Chapter 178

Chapter 178 No Match For You

“Y-You…” Chester stammered, unable to finish his sentence. He could only watch Curtis and Rayna leave. A metallic taste filled his mouth as he spat out a mouthful of blood.

“Chester!” Sienna rushed forward to help him. “Are you all right?”

“That brat!” Chester vociferated, his chest heaving up and down with rage. I can’t believe Alfred’s adoptive son would push me to this point. Worse, I have to sacrifice Jason’s arm.

Sienna whispered, “You know how much Alfred values children. He must feel awful after losing his grandson. Besides, he clearly favors that adopted son. There’s nothing we can do about it.”

Chester roared, “I must take my revenge!”

“This way, please.” The bodyguard walked over. “Decide if you want to amputate your arm or your son’s so that the doctor can start preparing the anesthetic.”

Hearing that, Chester almost spewed another mouthful of blood. He shut his eyes before shoving Sienna away and walking upstairs.

After getting shot twice, Jason was still in a coma. Even without anesthetic, he would not feel the pain of having his arm severed. Chester’s face twitched when he saw his beloved son’s battered state.

He walked to the floor-to-ceiling window and took out his phone to make a call.

When the call was picked up, Chester said through gritted teeth, “Tell Mr. Hamilton that I’m willing to sell all of Faymon Group’s shares at a low price to him. However, he must promise me something in return.”

Meanwhile, Rayna was still in a daze when she left the residence. She felt as though she was having a dream.

Now I know what it means to be an actor!

She was impressed by how Curtis had kept going until Chester was rendered speechless. In the end, the latter was so furious that he coughed up blood. She had never witnessed such dramatic scenes in her life.

Noticing Rayna was spacing out, Curtis asked, “What’s on your mind? Have you not come to your senses yet?”

“Why are you asking so many questions? I need time to digest everything.” Rayna shot him a look before moving two steps to the side. “I think I should stay away from you. I’m no match for you.”

Curtis let out a light chuckle and reached out to pull her to sit on his lap. “Didn’t you learn anything?”

Rayna inhaled deeply. “Seriously? What can I learn from this?”

“You can learn many things. What kind of tactic you should use when dealing with certain people, for example? If you spare him, he will think you’re a coward.”

I suppose he’s right.

Rayna recalled when Jason had bullied her, he had arrogantly declared that Curtis would not dare to do anything to him.

Nevertheless, she was still a little concerned. “Didn’t you see how furious Chester was? He’s going to retaliate against you in the future for cutting off his son’s arm. Also, you shouldn’t have lied to your dad.”

Curtis narrowed his eyes at her remark. “How self-righteous of you.”

“No, that’s not it.” Rayna waved a dismissive hand. “What I mean is, we could have gotten someone to cut off his arm secretly. You shouldn’t have acted so arrogantly. After all, you aren’t in good health either.”

“I want to make them remember so they won’t dare to touch my people again. To my dad, blood is thicker than water. He wants to let Jason off the hook, so I can’t do anything about it.”

Rayna furrowed her brows. “I’m afraid that the car accident will happen again. It will put you in danger.”

Besides, that car accident was not accidental either.

There was a glint in Curtis’ eyes. Sienna had planned the car accident. However, he was the one who lured Sienna into a trap in the end. Rayna had been kept in the dark regarding this matter.

If she finds out the truth, will she understand me? Or will she be mad at me?

As Curtis pondered about it, he could not help but feel frustrated. Pursing his lips, he called out, “Rayna.”

“Mr. Faymon, I know what you want to say.”

Curtis froze at her words.

Rayna clasped his hand, her gaze unwavering and warm. “No matter what happens, I’ll always be by your side. I will take care of you and help you solve your problems.”

Curtis’ expression softened. “Anything else?”

“Let me think about it.” Rayna wanted to suggest taking a break overseas. In the end, she said, “T- That’s if you don’t mind me.”

“Hmm?”

“In the future, I-I-I can take care—”

Just then, Rayna’s phone rang, interrupting her and also startling her.

“Let me answer this first.” Rayna rose to her feet from Curtis’ lap. She answered the call while cursing inwardly. This damn phone!

“Hello, who is this?”

After a short pause, the person on the other end of the line greeted, “Isabelle.”

Words eluded Rayna when she heard that name.

Curtis saw her body stiffen after she answered the phone.

He approached her in his wheelchair and heard Rayna warn someone calmly, “If you dare to come back for my mom, I’m going to turn you into ashes.”

With that, she ended the call.

Curtis did not ask her any questions. “Let’s pack up our things. It’s time to head back.”

Rayna nodded in acknowledgement.

By the time the two returned to the residence, the bodyguards had already taken care of the matter concerning Jason and showed the thing to Curtis. He waved his hand, telling them to incinerate the severed arm. Chester was so angry that he was rendered speechless.

When Alfred heard they were leaving, he immediately called Rayna to the study.

“Rayna, it’s the Faymon family’s fault that you had a miscarriage.” Alfred let out a long sigh. “I didn’t expect Jason to do such a despicable thing.”

Rayna was scared out of her wits. Since her pregnancy was fake, she was afraid that Alfred would blame himself for this. ”I-It’s fine. I’m still young, after all. Besides, Mr. Faymon is taking good care of me.”

Alfred nodded in understanding. “Yes, you guys will have many more opportunities in the future. Try to have more children if possible!”

Rayna was at a loss for words.

No, that won’t be necessary.

“I have to thank you,” Alfred said gratefully. “Although Curtis has crossed the line today, I can sense a trace of warmth from him nowadays. It’s all thanks to you. As you know, when I adopted Curtis back then, some of the members of the Faymon family couldn’t stand the sight of him. Nonetheless, he endured everything in silence and studied hard. At the age of thirteen, he started learning business with me. While others were still in university, he had already graduated. He secured a three hundred million contract for Faymon Group when he was twenty years old. Then, he managed to push himself into the upper management of the group and became its younger member.”

“There’s no way I could accomplish any of these.” Rayna pursed her lips and let out a sigh of admiration. “Mr. Faymon is truly outstanding.”

A smile bloomed on Alfred’s face. “Yes. Among the Faymon family’s children of the same age, not even his Aunt Sienna or Uncle Chester can compare to him. That’s why I’m going to hand over Faymon Group to him,” he stated proudly. ”He used to be a quiet guy, but he was never this aloof to other people. Then, something happened to him. His personality changed after he returned from a business

trip. There are times when I don’t know what is on his mind. Rayna, I hope you can make him happier. I don’t want to see him burying himself in work and keeping people at a distance.”

Patting Rayna’s hand, Alfred continued, “He’s an excellent leader. He will make a good husband and father too. I hope to see him have his own family and children since he has suffered so much in the past.”

Rayna blushed at his words. “Please don’t say that. You’re Mr. Faymon’s family too.”

Alfred shook his head and smiled sadly. “I know my own body. I don’t have long to live. I’ll be satisfied to see you guys doing well and having children before I leave this world.”

With that, he opened the desk drawer and took out something.

It was a sapphire ring. Even though the gem was not huge, its color was stunning. The ring looked beautiful and exquisite.

Alfred looked at the ring and sighed. “This is the only belonging left behind by his mother.”

“You know Mr. Faymon’s mother?” Curtis exclaimed.

 

Chapter 179

Chapter 179 Take A Swim

“Yes.” Alfred smiled faintly, his tone carrying a hint of regret. “She was a good child. If I had been there earlier…”

Perhaps it was too painful for him to share the story. He did not say anything further.

Alfred handed the sapphire ring to Rayna. “Here, take this. It’s useless for me to keep it.”

“I can’t accept this,” said Rayna as she took two steps back. She liked Curtis, but it was still uncertain how their relationship would develop from there. It was a gift too burdensome for her to accept. “It’s best if you give it to Mr. Faymon.”

“Oh, my poor Curtis.” Alfred let out an exaggerated sigh. “No one likes him since he was a child. I can’t believe he’s suffering the same fate as an adult. I’ve failed massively as his father.”

The corner of Rayna’s lips twitched when she heard that. “No way. Mr. Faymon is such an outstanding person. He’s never short on admirers.”

“In that case, you should take this.” Alfred pushed the sapphire ring into her hands. “From now on, I’ll entrust Curtis to you. Ow! I think I have a headache.” He rubbed his temples. “I’m going to get some rest. You two go on. Come back for dinner whenever you’re free.”

Rayna was stumped for words.

By the time she came to her senses, Alfred had already left the study. She looked at the sapphire ring in her hands helplessly.

Rayna was caught off guard when Alfred appealed to her emotions.

Curtis approached her in his wheelchair. “What did my dad say to you?”

“It’s nothing.” Rayna stealthily hid the ring behind her back. “He told us to come back for dinner when we have time.”

“Is that so?” Curtis arched a brow, looking at her with a penetrating gaze. “Did he say anything else?”

“Nope.”

Hearing that, Curtis decided not to ask any more questions. Rayna went downstairs behind him, hesitating whether to give him the ring. In the end, she stuffed it into her bag.

I shouldn’t give it to him first to avoid evoking his painful memories.

On the way back, Rayna glanced at the scenery flashing by the window. She thought of the events from the previous night until that morning. The level of excitement was similar to that of taking a roller coaster ride. It was a surreal experience for her.

Right then, something popped into Rayna’s head. Turning to look at Curtis, she asked, “Mr. Faymon, did you discuss it with Julian in advance? Don’t tell me you thought this through last night.”

“No.”

Rayna froze. “Then why did Julian…”

Julian was calm and collected when he said those words. I don’t believe it if Curtis didn’t communicate with him beforehand.

“Don’t you know why?” Curtis shot her a knowing look. “He still likes you.”

Rayna pursed her lips and remained silent. He also spoke up for me when we were at Faymon Group last time.

Curtis could tell that Rayna was getting lost in thought. He furrowed his brows, feeling displeased for some reason. Leaning over to her, he probed, “What’s the matter, Ms. Garland? Do you want to get back with him?”

“No, I don’t.” Rayna felt uncomfortable with how close they were. She leaned back and continued, “I don’t like to cling to the past. But I should at least thank him for helping me.”

Curtis’ tone softened. “It’s fine. I’ve said it on your behalf.”

Rayna wanted to say something, but she suddenly had muscle contractions in her lower abdomen. She bent over in pain, breaking out in a sweat.

“What’s wrong?”

“I’m having menstrual cramps.”

Recalling that Rayna had also suffered from cramps during her last period, Curtis pulled her closer so that she could lean on his shoulder. Then, he instructed the driver to buy a box of ibuprofen at a pharmacy.

“Mr. Faymon, you don’t have to—”

Rayna’s face flushed bright red as she struggled to get up from him. However, Curtis held her shoulder tightly. He spoke in a stern voice as if he would not take no for an answer. ”Lean on me, and stay still.”

He took the thin blanket off his lap and wrapped it around her waist.

Rayna did not struggle again as she rested her head on his broad shoulder. For some reason, she suddenly felt her pain subside.

Even though Uncle Curtis looks high and mighty, he’s quite a caring person.

After taking ibuprofen, Rayna was back on her feet again. She was too lazy to go out on such a scorching day, so she bought some ingredients online, including a large watermelon.

After she filled a plate with watermelon slices, Curtis took it away from her. “You shouldn’t eat cold fruits.”

“It’s fine to eat one slice.”

Curtis shot her a warning look, and she instantly withdrew her hand and made a “be my guest” gesture. ”Go ahead and eat them. I’ll eat some nuts!”

Let’s see if you can finish half a watermelon by yourself!

Rayna had been lazing around for two days. Besides handling a batch of important documents, she refused to do anything else. Nevertheless, she felt bored after spending a long time in the mansion.

“The weather is so hot, isn’t it?” Rayna sat with her legs crossed while munching the nuts. Once she saw the scorching sun outside, she lost her mood to go out. “Wouldn’t it be nice to take a swim right now?”

Looking at the back garden full of flowers, she said disdainfully, “Say, Mr. Faymon, why don’t you build a swimming pool after buying such a huge mansion? What’s the point of having a garden?”

The garden looks beautiful, but it’s not useful at all. And it was so damn expensive!

“This is my mansion. So what if I build a garden?” Curtis uttered nonchalantly. “Besides, the swimming pool gets dirty easily.”

Rayna snickered at his remark. “What about these flowers, then? They have to be properly taken care of, right? Mr. Faymon, aren’t you afraid that someone will steal your flowers and sell them?”

“The mansion is surrounded by surveillance cameras. No one would dare to do that.”

Rayna’s cheeks slowly reddened when she thought of the surveillance footage she saw last time. She cleared her throat and got up from the cushion. ”The weather is too hot. I’m going to take a stroll around the community pool.”

“It’s forty degrees outside. Aren’t you afraid that you’ll melt if you go out?” Curtis glanced at her from head to toe. “Besides, your period isn’t over. It’s easy to get infected with bacteria when you swim.”

“C-Can you please stop saying that?” Rayna was embarrassed to hear Curtis mention her period. “It’s already been three days, so it’s fine. I’ll just take a short swim.”

Curtis scrolled through some information on his phone before passing it to her.

When Rayna looked at the phone, he stated slowly, “Check out the news. Tsk… I advise you not to go. Otherwise, you’ll have many illnesses when you grow old.”

Damn it!

Rayna was on the verge of having a breakdown. Tossing the phone at him, she barked through gritted teeth, ”I’m not going! Are you happy now?”

With that, she trudged upstairs angrily.

I must have lost my damn mind when I moved in here!

Curtis smiled as he watched her go upstairs. Then he dialed a number.

“What’s up, Curtis?”

“I have a job for you to earn extra income. Do you want to take it?” Curtis asked casually.

“Is it okay if I say no?” Wyatt did not let his guard down. “I always feel that you’re up to no good.”

“No, you must take it.”

Wyatt was bereft of speech.

Rayna was in a foul mood that night. Not bothering to prepare a meal, she decided to order takeouts. However, not only did Curtis not complain at all, but he also ate a lot, which made her feel even more infuriated.

Will it kill him to beg me to cook a meal?

After eating, Rayna went back to her bedroom early and complained to Jessica on the phone.

When Rayna finished venting, Jessica exclaimed, “Then you should move back!”

“What about Mr. Faymon?”

“Look, you don’t want to move back when I told you to, yet you’re complaining about Mr. Faymon.” Jessica let out a sigh of frustration. “I think you’re a masochist.”

“I’m afraid that the housekeepers won’t take proper care of him,” Rayna mumbled, feeling sullen. “Tell me, how come a picky guy like him enjoyed the food I ordered?”

Words eluded Jessica at that moment.

Rayna continued, “He should have said so if he wants me to cook. Why must he act so high and mighty?”

Once again, Jessica remained silent.

“What’s wrong with having a period? Why can’t I take a swim on such a hot day? What am I supposed to do, then?”

Needless to say, Jessica felt a heartache coming. She did not want to listen to Rayna’s endless nagging. “Let’s not talk about this. Anyway, I’m currently dating Wyatt. When are you going to the office? Let’s have a meal together, shall we?”

 

Chapter 180

Chapter 180 Bringing His Boyfriend To Meet Me

“Oh, that’s great… N-No, wait!” Rayna came to her senses and was shocked by Jessica’s words. “How long has it been, and both of you are already together? Didn’t you say you despised him for being a terrible guy?”

“I didn’t say he was terrible. I only said he seemed like a guy who would mess around with girls,” Jessica replied. “Besides, we’re just dating right now. If we’re not compatible with each other, we’ll just break up!”

It’s amazing how optimistic she is!

Rayna became anxious. “Aren’t you going to consider my brother? He’s young, handsome, and has the potential for growth too.”

“Well, I’m just not meant to be with him.”

After chatting for a while, Rayna hung up the call and grumbled about James to herself. Why in the world did he stand her up twice? Now Jessica has already been taken!

Just when she was just about to take a shower, someone knocked on her door. She could only turn around to open it.

“What’s the matter, Mr. Faymon?”

“Nothing in particular. I just wanted to give you something,” Curtis said as he passed her a tiny box. “You can wear these earplugs when you sleep at night. The mansion next door is under renovation.”

“Okay.” Rayna took the box of earplugs from him.

While taking a shower, she recalled that the mansion next door seemed to be quite far away from them. It won’t be noisy for us, right? Besides, who would renovate their house at night? Are they out of their minds?

Even though she was complaining, Rayna still decided to wear the earplugs to bed, concerned that the noise might disturb her sleep.

Rayna slept very comfortably that night due to the excellent noise-canceling function of the earplugs. As usual, she went downstairs to water the expensive flowers in the backyard after washing up.

As soon as she slid open the glass doors, Rayna was stunned by the sight in front of her.

The backyard, which had been filled with expensive roses, now boasted a large rectangular swimming pool surrounded by Epean-style tiles, which gave it an extremely classy and elegant look.

“What the…” Rayna thought her eyes were deceiving her. She rubbed her eyes, only to find the swimming pool still in front of her. “Where did this pool come from? It’s too magical!”

Curtis came over in his wheelchair and said, “Why are you spacing out so early in the morning?”

Rayna turned around to look at him as she pointed toward the pool. “Mr. Faymon, where are your millions?”

Curtis raised his eyebrows and replied nonchalantly, “You mean those flowers? It’s getting hot out here. I was worried they’d wither quickly, so I had Wyatt relocate them and build a pool instead.”

“Have I not been caring for them every day?” Rayna rolled her eyes.

Just because she knew they were expensive flowers, Rayna would take care of the flowers herself every day. Yet, the man had decided to remove those roses on a whim.

No wonder he told me to wear earplugs to sleep! He was planning to build the pool anyway. It’s amazing how they managed to build it overnight! They’re really fast!

Rayna glanced at the pool again before asking Curtis in an excited manner, “Can I take a dip in the pool later?”

“No,” Curtis said flatly.

“You can’t swim anyway, so why did you build it? Just to look at it?”

Curtis nodded.

Rayna was so infuriated that she refused to speak to him anymore.

How petty!

Having tuned out Curtis’ refusal, Rayna finished her breakfast and took a rest. Noticing that the weather was becoming warmer, she then went back to her bedroom and changed into her swimsuit before plunging into the pool with glee.

The swimming pool took up the entire backyard, and Rayna flitted her legs gracefully in the water, swimming back and forth happily.

It was far more enjoyable than swimming in a community pool.

After swimming for a while, Rayna made a fruit salad and a jug of fruit punch before heading back to the pool with a laptop in her hands. She soaked in the water while eating dessert and reading her emails. It was a blissful moment for her.

Not long after, Curtis came over in his wheelchair.

“Mr. Faymon!” Rayna greeted him with a smile before shoving a piece of mango into her mouth. “It’s such a great idea from you to change the back garden into a swimming pool! It feels so nice.”

Curtis lowered his head to look at her. “I remember saying no to your request, Ms. Garland.”

“Hey, we’re family, aren’t we?” Rayna said shamelessly. “A pool is meant for swimming anyway. Isn’t it a waste to just leave it like that?”

“The only way you make your point is by talking a lot.”

“I brought over some Red Hibernia. How about I make you a cup?” As Rayna climbed out of the pool, her wet white swimsuit clung to her body, highlighting her beautiful figure.

Curtis felt his abdomen tightening all of a sudden.

Upon closer observation, Rayna seemed to have lost quite some weight. Although her waist had become slimmer, she retained her usual curvaceous figure, her legs slender and fair.

He only had a glance before Rayna draped a towel over her body and entered barefoot into the house.

Curtis believed his decision to have Wyatt and his men build a swimming pool overnight was definitely right when he thought about Rayna’s alluring figure attracting many perverts in the community pool.

He should be the only one who got to enjoy such a spectacular view.

Rayna then carried a small, round table with some coffee-making equipment to the garden and began to make coffee skillfully without skipping any steps. Soon, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the atmosphere.

“Have a taste.” Rayna passed the cup of coffee to him. “This is the authentic Red Hibernia!”

Curtis glanced at her as he took a sip of coffee from the cup. “Nicely brewed,” he complimented.

“Of course! I paid to learn from a master barista!” Rayna replied smugly. “To express my gratitude, Mr. Faymon, I am gifting you with this pack of Red Hibernia. I’ll go take another dip in the pool, okay?”

Curtis merely hummed in acknowledgement.

Leaning back in his wheelchair, he slowly sipped his coffee as he watched Rayna swim in the pool. With the glistening sunlight enveloping her figure, she looked like a mermaid.

Curtis felt comfortable and relaxed just watching her like that, and he found the time spent pleasant and blissful.

Meanwhile, Rayna was unaware of his blazing gaze toward her and believed it was hot because of the scorching sun. She found a shady spot to rest, then took her phone to reply to some messages when she suddenly received a call.

Rayna took the call. “Hey, James.”

“Are you free later, Rayna?”

“Yes, I am,” Rayna replied. “Does this have anything to do with Mom moving?”

“No.” James sounded quite embarrassed to speak. “I’d like to invite you for a meal and introduce you to someone.”

Rayna’s imagination went wild when she heard her brother’s awkward tone of voice. She felt slightly nervous.

Oh, no!

Rayna wiped her face, knowing she would have to face the inevitable. She believed she could handle it. “Sure. Why don’t we have lunch together? You can choose the restaurant you like.”

“Okay. I’ll send you the address in a bit.”

After they were done chatting, Rayna hurriedly climbed out of the pool and asked Curtis anxiously, “What do I do? My brother’s bringing his boyfriend to meet me. What kind of gift should I prepare for him?”

Curtis cleared his throat. “You haven’t even seen that person, and you already assume it’s going to be his boyfriend?”

“I’m eighty percent sure about it!” Rayna replied. “He sounded way too unusual. He should be happy about having a girlfriend. I’m going upstairs to get changed. I’ll have to buy a present later!”

Curtis could not help but chuckle.

He was really impressed with Rayna. She has such a wild imagination!

Rayna spent a long time picking out an outfit. After deliberating for over half an hour, she finally came downstairs and asked for Curtis’ opinion about her dress.

“Looks good.” Curtis pondered for a bit and added, “I’ll go with you.”

“That would be great!” Rayna was beyond touched. She was worried about being awkward by herself at lunch, yet she was too embarrassed to tell Curtis. “Then I won’t be nervous anymore.”

I’m just worried that you’ll pass out from shock when you see that person, Curtis mused.

Rayna had wanted to get a gift for James’ partner, but Curtis told her it wasn’t necessary, and it might even make them seem distant instead. His words made sense to her, so they went to the restaurant directly without buying a present.

When Rayna wheeled Curtis into the restaurant, trying to look for James’ table, someone approached them.

“Curt, you’re here too?”

Only then did Rayna realize the woman in front of her was Kristie.

What a ridiculous coincidence!

Kristie was usually dressed in flashy and extravagant outfits, but she was dressed as a pure and innocent young girl that day, wearing a linen dress and a beret. She swept a glance at Rayna and greeted politely, “Rayna.”