Ch. 331..340

Chapter 331

Chapter 331 Worried Something Would Befall Her

Curtis had imagined dozens of plights Rayna could have encountered, but never did it occur to him that she came to Hallsbay to look for Jefferson. Worse still, she broke up with him directly without telling him the reason.

Cillian inched a few steps to the side, quaking like a leaf.

I’ve worked for him for a long time, but this is the first time I’m seeing him so… manic. I hope he doesn’t go off the deep end.

Noticing that the situation wasn’t right, the doctor vaguely murmured a few words to Curtis before taking off.

Curtis and Cillian remained rooted to the spot.

Right then, they were in a hospital corridor with patients coming and going. Curtis was tall and had striking looks, so those walking past even thought that a celebrity was there to film a movie and glanced in their direction every so often.

After standing there for a while, Cillian could no longer take it. Biting the bullet, he uttered, “Just say the word if you need me to do anything, Mr. Faymon. Let’s not stand here for eternity.”

Curtis swung his eyes at the man, his gaze sharp and shrewd.

At once, Cillian stiffened.

“Cillian, when I asked you to lend me your phone back then, you were extraordinarily nervous. Besides, there was a glint of guilt in your eyes,” Curtis enunciated in a deep voice that carried a sense of oppression.

Crap! He has got keen eyes!

“R-Really? Haha, I was merely afraid that you’d flip through my WhatsApp and all. I’ve got persecutory delusion,” Cillian fibbed uneasily, trying to cover up his guilt.

Hearing that, Curtis snorted a bark of laughter. “Why didn’t I know about that when I’ve been your boss for so long?”

“It’s a recent development.”

“Do you know something?”

Haunted by guilt once more, Cillian sounded unconfident as he denied, “No.”

Not bothering to yak with him, Curtis unlocked the phone and rang Wyatt up. “Wyatt, help me check this phone’s call history, then go into TXJ Corporation and see whether you can obtain the recording of every call received.”

“I’ll talk, Mr. Faymon! I’ll talk!” Cillian promptly raised his hand in surrender.

D*mn it! I almost forgot that Faymon Group has a collaboration with TXJ Corporation, thus possessing much authority over it. If Wyatt really gets into the system and procures the call recordings, I’ll truly be dead!

Under Curtis’ piercing gaze, he gulped before continuing weakly, “Ja… Ah, I mean, Ms. Garland phoned me, but I kept it from you, Mr. Faymon. I’m sorry.”

“Why did she call you?”

Cillian quickly arranged his words in his mind. “She… She was seemingly crying. She told me she was going away to do something, asking me to take good care of you and Roxanne, Mr. Faymon.”

Curtis scanned every inch of the man’s face, seemingly trying to determine the veracity of his words.

“Did she say where she was going?” Irritation flooded him after he had searched for such a long time, only to learn that Rayna was with Jefferson. He yanked at the constrictive buttons of his shirt, revealing his collarbone slightly.

Throughout it all, he radiated a burst of coldness that kept others away from him.

In response, Cillian shook his head.

Ultimately, that was a lie he made up, and he had no idea where Rayna would go either.

His gaze darkening a shade, Curtis demanded, “Did you go to James after returning from Yeringham?”

Cillian tried his best to remain unfazed, but his eyelids quivered. Oh my goodness, he’s really terrifying! I didn’t say anything, but he surmised my past whereabouts to a tee!

“From the looks of you, that must be the case.” Sneering, Curtis strode out on his long legs. daily new chapters upload only on alaniniz(dot)com While doing so, he searched for James’ contact from Cillian’s phone.

Cillian hurriedly chased after the man, silently offering a prayer for James.

Sorry, Rayna and James. Mr. Faymon was too powerful, and I wasn’t his match at all!

As soon as the call was connected, Curtis questioned, “Where did your sister go?”

Upon hearing his voice, James reckoned that he must have gotten to the bottom of things and didn’t bother keeping anything from him. “She has gone abroad on a cruise ship an hour ago. I bought them the tickets.”

“She’s with Jefferson?”

“Yes,” James admitted. Then, he added, “Don’t waste your resources to investigate. They’re using fake identities, and several ships left within that hour, so your men wouldn’t be able to find them.”

“I want to know the reason.” Curtis’ voice was cold and low.

He believed that there was nothing between Rayna and Jefferson, but the fact that she suddenly broke up with him and took a cruise abroad with Jefferson had anxiety inundate him.

He was only worried that something would befall her.

“Mr. Faymon, you’ve already broken up with my sister.” Pausing for a brief second, James went on, “It isn’t necessary for her to tell you whatever it is she wants to do. That aside, I don’t know either.”

Following that, Curtis snorted coldly. “You wouldn’t have said that if it’s true. Anyway, I won’t coerce you further. So be it since she wants to go abroad so much. She’ll make a call back sooner or later.”

After saying that, he hung up the phone.

Subsequently, he twisted the ring on his finger. It was a prize he and Rayna won when they went to Jetroina on vacation, and Rayna personally put it on him in acknowledgment of their relationship.

Only when the man’s aura was no longer as daunting did Cillian dare approach him. “Where are we going now, Mr. Faymon?”

“Back to Norwal City.”

Well, I’ll grant her the freedom to go and do whatever she wants, but I only hope she’d call me if she were to run into danger. Hopefully.

Wyatt had no idea what happened between Rayna and Curtis, but he could surmise that something had happened when the latter sought his help to track Rayna. Nonetheless, it wasn’t his place to

interfere.

The company plunged into turmoil after Gerald’s death, so he had been swamped with work in the office for the past few days. Usually, he only went home at seven or eight o’clock at night.

Fortunately, his house wasn’t empty and cold. Instead, there was still a hint of warmth.

When he had entered the house, he took off his jacket and handed it to the housekeeper. From afar, he heard laughter from the kitchen, only to find Pamela and Jessica in the kitchen when he went over for a look.

Pamela was teaching Jessica how to prepare Irushean dishes.

The latter was clumsy and often knocked things over, but Pamela merely clapped a hand over her mouth and giggled without any disapproval on her face.

“What are you two doing, Mom? Just leave the cooking to the housekeeper. There’s no need to bustle around!” Unbuttoning his cuffs, Wyatt walked into the kitchen.

Seeing that he was home, Pamela harrumphed. “What has it got to do with you when we love eating our own cooking? Have the housekeeper cook for you later and eat it alone!”

Wyatt smilingly pleaded for mercy, explaining, “I was just worried that you’d be tired!”

“Hey, don’t just stand there! Quick, get me a plate. The lasagna won’t taste good when it’s overcooked. Hurry up!” Jessica urged without stopping whatever she was doing.

“Coming, coming!” Pulling open the cabinet, Wyatt took out a few plates from in there.

When the lasagna was served, a fragrant aroma wafted into the air.

Inhaling deeply, Wyatt complimented, “How fragrant! Your cooking skills have improved, Babe! I think I won’t have any problems eating five plates!”

“Dream on! I’m never cooking that much!”

“Don’t you want to fatten me up, Babe? If I’m fat, others won’t be able to steal me away from you. How great!” Wyatt leaned over and kissed Jessica shamelessly.

At that, Jessica rolled her eyes at him. “How narcissistic to assume that everyone fancies you!”

“But of course! After all, I’m incredibly handsome.”

Shaking her head, Pamela tactfully went out as though she couldn’t stand their public display of affection.

Shortly after, dinner was ready.

During dinner, Pamela pinned her eyes on them and subtly remarked with a smile, “Wyatt’s father has just been laid to rest, so you two can’t have a wedding within three years. But then, that’s not a hindrance to registering your marriage.”

When realization dawned upon Jessica, her face flamed. “L-Let’s talk about this in the future, Mrs. Lopez.”

“No, there’s no need to wait! I agree!” Wyatt seconded his mother. Pondering for a moment, he suggested, “It’s Wednesday tomorrow. City Hall will be open, so let’s make a trip there in the morning.”

 

Chapter 332

Chapter 333 Not Blackmailing But Simply Negotiating

Wyatt’s expression darkened frightfully. Smashing the phone onto the ground, he crushed it with his leg.

Across from him, Zephyr remained calm and unruffled. He licked his lips before noting, “It doesn’t matter even if you destroyed the phone, Mr. Lopez. I’ve got several videos of the same variety, and I’ve hidden all the original copies away.”

“What do you want?”

“Fifty million. That aside, I want to terminate my contract with my current company, and you’ll be paying the liquidated damages for me. Arrange for me to join Excellent Entertainment Company, and I’ll hand you the original copies of those videos,” Zephyr stated.

Hearing that, Wyatt guffawed aloud. “Are you f*cking blackmailing me?”

Zephyr wasn’t the least bit afraid. Instead, he even chuckled. “I’m not blackmailing but simply negotiating with you, Mr. Lopez. I’m sure you know the identity of the woman in the video. And I know she’s dating you right now.”

He then smacked his lips as though in reminiscence before continuing, “I really didn’t expect that I’d be so lucky to sample your woman, Mr. Lopez. If the videos were to be played on various websites, the number of views and downloads would definitely be staggering.”

Abruptly shooting to his feet, Wyatt leaned across the table and seized Zephyr’s neck with a hand.

A murderous aura emanated off him, and his face was as dark as thunder.

The pressure on Zephyr’s neck was so great that his face turned purplish, and he had difficulty breathing. “It’s fine if you kill me, Mr. Lopez. Once I die, those videos will be automatically uploaded. So what if you were to delete them? They’ll resurface after a while.”

Sanity returned to Wyatt, and he threw the man away hard. Falling back onto the chair, he took out his phone while looking all grim. “Bring me a check and a contract.”

As Zephyr coughed, he touched his sore neck, terror lingering within him.

Oh my goodness, he almost strangled me to death just now!

When he heard Wyatt ordering someone to bring a check over, he knew he had won the gamble. But at the same time, he felt puzzled inwardly.

I know all the stories about him, so why does he value a woman so much now? Anyway…

He cast a look at the ruined phone under the table.

I never specified the identity of the woman in the video. He was the one who presumed she was Jessica, so it wasn’t my fault.

After hanging up the phone, Wyatt demanded coldly, “Have someone send the original copies of the videos over.

“He’s on the way. Be patient,” Zephyr replied.

Shortly after, Wyatt’s man had sent the check and contract over.

Filling in the amount for the check and penning his signature on the contract prepared, Wyatt flung it at Zephyr. Zephyr signed the contract as well before putting it into his bag. At the same time, he took out a flash drive and held it out.

“Since you’re a man of your word, Mr. Lopez, I’m also handing you all the original copies. Don’t worry, for I don’t have any other videos. I still want to make a living in Norwal City, after all.”

Without bothering to check its content, Wyatt crushed the chip at the flash drive’s connector and stuffed it into his pocket.

Getting to his feet, he stalked away.

Unexpectedly, Zephyr called out, “There’s one more thing I’d like to say, Mr. Lopez. Jessica is using you. She’s cruel beyond words, so don’t fall for her.”

Ignoring him entirely, Wyatt left the restaurant.

After getting into the car, he turned and instructed his assistant, “Get the check back. Then, tell those at the borders to send him abroad and leave him to fend for himself. Also, make the necessary arrangements where his parents are concerned.”

“Understood.”

While driving to the office, Wyatt gave Jessica a call.

Finally, Jessica answered her phone. “Yes? I went out to buy something in the morning. The housekeeper said you left without even eating breakfast. Do you have too much work at the office? And shall I bring breakfast over for you?”

Wyatt initially wanted to ask her about her relationship with Zephyr.

She isn’t acquainted with Zephyr, no? Why does he have such a video of them? Or had she dated him in the past? But I’m sure she was still an untouched virgin when we had intercourse for the first time. Or did she secretly hook up with him later?

However, her words of concern right then had him nixing that idea. Yet, he didn’t know what to say anymore.

Seeing that he had been keeping mum for a long while, Jessica queried, “Why aren’t you saying anything?”

“My phone slipped under the seat earlier. I didn’t see you when I woke up this morning, so I called to ask where you’d gone.” Wyatt’s tone turned airily, and he chuckled.

“You gave me a fright. I thought something had happened to you. You haven’t arrived at the office? Don’t talk on the phone while driving. It’s too dangerous. I’ll bring you breakfast later. See you!”

Jessica hung up right after saying that.

Wyatt glanced at his phone. The smile on his face gradually faded, and his gaze turned unfathomable.

Ten minutes later, he drove into the underground garage. When he reached the top floor and stepped out of the elevator, he bumped into his secretary.

The secretary bowed slightly. “Good morning, Mr. Lopez. Mr. Tylinski from Faymon Group came over half an hour ago, and I arranged for him to wait for you in the CEO’s office.”

Hmm? Why is he here to look for me?

Murmuring in acknowledgment, Wyatt loosened his tie and entered the CEO’s office.

Upon catching sight of Gabriel, he asked, “Mr. Tylinski, what happened between Curtis and Rayna? Don’t tell me they’re about to break up?”

“Not about, but already.” Gabriel heaved a sigh.

For a moment, Wyatt was blindsided. “Huh? Things were just fine between them, no? Why did they break up? No, why did you come and look for me, then? I’m not capable of having them reconcile.”

All of a sudden, Gabriel’s expression turned solemn.

Wyatt’s heart lurched. “Whoa! Don’t tell me I hit the nail on the head?”

Gabriel locked the door before making his way back and handing a document to the man. “This is from Mr. Xavier. He said you’ve got the right to know about some things.”

In truth, he didn’t want to make the trip.

Life is already difficult for me as I’ve got to keep an eye on Curtis, who flies into a rage easily at all times. On top of that, Theodore called and questioned me about why Jessica hadn’t left. I’ve told him it was Mr. Faymon’s orders to only arrange for her to go abroad later, but he sent that document over early in the morning and requested that I visit Lopez Group to hand it to Wyatt, his attitude insistent. F*ck! I’m truly lowlier than dirt before these few big shots I can’t afford to offend.

“What is this?” Lifting his head, Wyatt eyed the man even as he took the document from him.

“You’ll know when you open it and have a look, Mr. Lopez,” Gabriel uttered.

When Wyatt opened the document, Gabriel stood slightly farther away so that he could streak over to the door and make a hasty escape in the event that the man went ballistic.

I’m no punching bag!

The instant Wyatt’s nonchalant gaze scanned over the contents of the document, his pupils abruptly constricted. As he read further, his expression grew increasingly darker, and his lips pressed into a thin line.

After reading it, he clenched the papers hard and remained motionless for a long time.

A strong sense of unease swamped Gabriel. In the next heartbeat, he saw the man shooting a leg out and kicking the coffee table. A carpet blanketed the floor, so the glass coffee table was sent flying but didn’t shatter.

As though finding that insufficient, Wyatt sprang to his feet and picked up the chair, swinging it at the desktop before moving on to the rosewood cabinet. Ornaments rained down to the ground in a torrent.

Rampage-like crashes rang out from the CEO’s office unceasingly.

Hanging his head low in silence, Gabriel inwardly exclaimed, Fortunately, Mr. Lopez chose to smash things in his fit of rage and not pummel me! How lucky!

An eternity later, when he noticed that Wyatt’s fury had seemingly lost its intensity, he murmured, “Mr. Xavier said that you can do anything you want, but you must spare Jessica’s life.”

It was precisely because of Curtis’ and Theodore’s morals and bottom lines that he was willing to work for them.

Jessica is really pitiable. Her sister committed suicide after having been defiled, and her parents were backed into a corner in their bid to seek justice for their eldest daughter, thereby taking their lives as well. That aside, the few perpetrators still wanted to end her life. She abided by the law, yet she ended up with her family all dead. Anyone would be seething!

Chapter 333

Chapter 333 Not Blackmailing But Simply Negotiating

Wyatt’s expression darkened frightfully. Smashing the phone onto the ground, he crushed it with his leg.

Across from him, Zephyr remained calm and unruffled. He licked his lips before noting, “It doesn’t matter even if you destroyed the phone, Mr. Lopez. I’ve got several videos of the same variety, and I’ve hidden all the original copies away.”

“What do you want?”

“Fifty million. That aside, I want to terminate my contract with my current company, and you’ll be paying the liquidated damages for me. Arrange for me to join Excellent Entertainment Company, and I’ll hand you the original copies of those videos,” Zephyr stated.

Hearing that, Wyatt guffawed aloud. “Are you f*cking blackmailing me?”

Zephyr wasn’t the least bit afraid. Instead, he even chuckled. “I’m not blackmailing but simply negotiating with you, Mr. Lopez. I’m sure you know the identity of the woman in the video. And I know she’s dating you right now.”

He then smacked his lips as though in reminiscence before continuing, “I really didn’t expect that I’d be so lucky to sample your woman, Mr. Lopez. If the videos were to be played on various websites, the number of views and downloads would definitely be staggering.”

Abruptly shooting to his feet, Wyatt leaned across the table and seized Zephyr’s neck with a hand.

A murderous aura emanated off him, and his face was as dark as thunder.

The pressure on Zephyr’s neck was so great that his face turned purplish, and he had difficulty breathing. “It’s fine if you kill me, Mr. Lopez. Once I die, those videos will be automatically uploaded. So what if you were to delete them? They’ll resurface after a while.”

Sanity returned to Wyatt, and he threw the man away hard. Falling back onto the chair, he took out his phone while looking all grim. “Bring me a check and a contract.”

As Zephyr coughed, he touched his sore neck, terror lingering within him.

Oh my goodness, he almost strangled me to death just now!

When he heard Wyatt ordering someone to bring a check over, he knew he had won the gamble. But at the same time, he felt puzzled inwardly.

I know all the stories about him, so why does he value a woman so much now? Anyway…

He cast a look at the ruined phone under the table.

I never specified the identity of the woman in the video. He was the one who presumed she was Jessica, so it wasn’t my fault.

After hanging up the phone, Wyatt demanded coldly, “Have someone send the original copies of the videos over.

“He’s on the way. Be patient,” Zephyr replied.

Shortly after, Wyatt’s man had sent the check and contract over.

Filling in the amount for the check and penning his signature on the contract prepared, Wyatt flung it at Zephyr. Zephyr signed the contract as well before putting it into his bag. At the same time, he took out a flash drive and held it out.

“Since you’re a man of your word, Mr. Lopez, I’m also handing you all the original copies. Don’t worry, for I don’t have any other videos. I still want to make a living in Norwal City, after all.”

Without bothering to check its content, Wyatt crushed the chip at the flash drive’s connector and stuffed it into his pocket.

Getting to his feet, he stalked away.

Unexpectedly, Zephyr called out, “There’s one more thing I’d like to say, Mr. Lopez. Jessica is using you. She’s cruel beyond words, so don’t fall for her.”

Ignoring him entirely, Wyatt left the restaurant.

After getting into the car, he turned and instructed his assistant, “Get the check back. Then, tell those at the borders to send him abroad and leave him to fend for himself. Also, make the necessary arrangements where his parents are concerned.”

“Understood.”

While driving to the office, Wyatt gave Jessica a call.

Finally, Jessica answered her phone. “Yes? I went out to buy something in the morning. The housekeeper said you left without even eating breakfast. Do you have too much work at the office? And shall I bring breakfast over for you?”

Wyatt initially wanted to ask her about her relationship with Zephyr.

She isn’t acquainted with Zephyr, no? Why does he have such a video of them? Or had she dated him in the past? But I’m sure she was still an untouched virgin when we had intercourse for the first time. Or did she secretly hook up with him later?

However, her words of concern right then had him nixing that idea. Yet, he didn’t know what to say anymore.

Seeing that he had been keeping mum for a long while, Jessica queried, “Why aren’t you saying anything?”

“My phone slipped under the seat earlier. I didn’t see you when I woke up this morning, so I called to ask where you’d gone.” Wyatt’s tone turned airily, and he chuckled.

“You gave me a fright. I thought something had happened to you. You haven’t arrived at the office? Don’t talk on the phone while driving. It’s too dangerous. I’ll bring you breakfast later. See you!”

Jessica hung up right after saying that.

Wyatt glanced at his phone. The smile on his face gradually faded, and his gaze turned unfathomable.

Ten minutes later, he drove into the underground garage. When he reached the top floor and stepped out of the elevator, he bumped into his secretary.

The secretary bowed slightly. “Good morning, Mr. Lopez. Mr. Tylinski from Faymon Group came over half an hour ago, and I arranged for him to wait for you in the CEO’s office.”

Hmm? Why is he here to look for me?

Murmuring in acknowledgment, Wyatt loosened his tie and entered the CEO’s office.

Upon catching sight of Gabriel, he asked, “Mr. Tylinski, what happened between Curtis and Rayna? Don’t tell me they’re about to break up?”

“Not about, but already.” Gabriel heaved a sigh.

For a moment, Wyatt was blindsided. “Huh? Things were just fine between them, no? Why did they break up? No, why did you come and look for me, then? I’m not capable of having them reconcile.”

All of a sudden, Gabriel’s expression turned solemn.

Wyatt’s heart lurched. “Whoa! Don’t tell me I hit the nail on the head?”

Gabriel locked the door before making his way back and handing a document to the man. “This is from Mr. Xavier. He said you’ve got the right to know about some things.”

In truth, he didn’t want to make the trip.

Life is already difficult for me as I’ve got to keep an eye on Curtis, who flies into a rage easily at all times. On top of that, Theodore called and questioned me about why Jessica hadn’t left. I’ve told him it was Mr. Faymon’s orders to only arrange for her to go abroad later, but he sent that document over early in the morning and requested that I visit Lopez Group to hand it to Wyatt, his attitude insistent. F*ck! I’m truly lowlier than dirt before these few big shots I can’t afford to offend.

“What is this?” Lifting his head, Wyatt eyed the man even as he took the document from him.

“You’ll know when you open it and have a look, Mr. Lopez,” Gabriel uttered.

When Wyatt opened the document, Gabriel stood slightly farther away so that he could streak over to the door and make a hasty escape in the event that the man went ballistic.

I’m no punching bag!

The instant Wyatt’s nonchalant gaze scanned over the contents of the document, his pupils abruptly constricted. As he read further, his expression grew increasingly darker, and his lips pressed into a thin line.

After reading it, he clenched the papers hard and remained motionless for a long time.

A strong sense of unease swamped Gabriel. In the next heartbeat, he saw the man shooting a leg out and kicking the coffee table. A carpet blanketed the floor, so the glass coffee table was sent flying but didn’t shatter.

As though finding that insufficient, Wyatt sprang to his feet and picked up the chair, swinging it at the desktop before moving on to the rosewood cabinet. Ornaments rained down to the ground in a torrent.

Rampage-like crashes rang out from the CEO’s office unceasingly.

Hanging his head low in silence, Gabriel inwardly exclaimed, Fortunately, Mr. Lopez chose to smash things in his fit of rage and not pummel me! How lucky!

An eternity later, when he noticed that Wyatt’s fury had seemingly lost its intensity, he murmured, “Mr. Xavier said that you can do anything you want, but you must spare Jessica’s life.”

It was precisely because of Curtis’ and Theodore’s morals and bottom lines that he was willing to work for them.

Jessica is really pitiable. Her sister committed suicide after having been defiled, and her parents were backed into a corner in their bid to seek justice for their eldest daughter, thereby taking their lives as well. That aside, the few perpetrators still wanted to end her life. She abided by the law, yet she ended up with her family all dead. Anyone would be seething!

 

Chapter 334

Chapter 334 As Long As You Love Me

Wyatt snagged a tissue and wiped the blood on his hand before sitting on the couch, which was still in considerably good condition.

Picking up the cigarettes and lighter from the ground, Gabriel held them out to him.

Wyatt took a cigarette and dangled it in the corner of his mouth. Gabriel went over to light it for him but couldn’t decipher his expression. “If you find it difficult to do anything, I’ll make the arrangements for Ms. Marsh.”

“Do she and her sister look very much alike?”

“I’ve seen her sister’s picture, and they do look quite alike. But Ms. Marsh later had minor cosmetic surgery and even worked hard on her figure.” While saying all that, Gabriel stole a glance at the man.

Wyatt puffed out a smoke ring, the white smoke shrouding his tense face. “Get me a laptop.”

Gabriel promptly scurried off to do as instructed.

A minute later, he returned with a laptop in hand. Besides, he thoughtfully took a chair and presented it to Wyatt together.

Taking a deep drag on the cigarette, Wyatt snagged it from the man. In the next second, his fingers flew across the keyboard.

Gabriel could only see the shadow of his hand. Countless programs were open on the laptop screen, and Wyatt even made a video call to someone, instructing the person to execute his orders posthaste.

When his hands had left the laptop, Gabriel cast another glance at the screen, only to be shocked to the core. “Whoa! It turned out that Bianca was in a relationship with that guy who’s in the entertainment industry, Zephyr!”

In no time, realization dawned upon him. “She once suffered a miscarriage. If she had only been with him while alive, the baby must have been his.”

After saying that, he clutched his pounding heart even as he inwardly warned himself, Of all people, never offend Mr. Lopez!

Meanwhile, Wyatt’s gaze remained fixated on the laptop. “Zephyr sought me out this morning and showed me a video. I was wondering how he took it when they weren’t acquainted.”

Jessica has probably long since known about it, and that’s why she said she likes Zephyr after having a row with me on the cruise that day. It’s so that I’d be jealous and ruin him. No wonder he said that she was using me when I left.

Sheer shock inundated Gabriel. “How daring that he even dared to play a fool of you! So, Mr. Lopez—”

“Get out!” Wyatt ordered. His hands were propped against his forehead, and his voice was tense. It was as though he was suppressing some emotion or other.

Not daring to tarry, Gabriel left the office.

No sooner had he gone out than he bumped into a woman wearing a mask. She called out to him, inquiring, “Why are you here, Mr. Tylinski?”

While at that, she pulled her mask down.

“Ms. Marsh.” Seeing that it was Jessica, and she was even holding a lunch box in her hand, Gabriel cautioned after a moment’s contemplation, “Mr. Lopez is in a bad mood because of some work matters.

It might be a bit messy in there.”

Apprehension and worry flooded Jessica. “Is he okay?”

“He’s fine, but the things in the CEO’s office didn’t fare as well. I’ve got something else to do, so please excuse me. Hang in there, Ms. Marsh.”

“Ah, sure.”

Watching him leave, Jessica muttered in bewilderment, “Why did he tell me to hang in there?”

The moment she pushed open the door to the CEO’s office, she was taken aback by the mess in the room. Wyatt was seemingly uninjured on the couch, so she breathed a sigh of relief before walking over with the lunch box in hand.

“Don’t smash stuff even if things aren’t going your way at work. It’s your money. Won’t it distress you to buy new stuff?” she nagged. Nevertheless, she righted the coffee table and placed the lunch box on it.

Throughout it all, Wyatt remained motionless with his head cradled in his hands.

Noticing something amiss, Jessica sat beside him and asked softly, “What’s wrong?”

Wyatt finally reacted, turning to look at her. A glimmer of savagery flitted across his eyes, tinged with a hint of disorientation and something indescribable.

He then hugged her close to him, his arms tightening around her bit by bit.

Oh, how I wish to strangle her to death for having set me up and duped me! Even if she wanted revenge, she could’ve had someone else do it. No matter how much I disliked the man, he was still my biological father. But then, I can’t bring myself to hurt her because of my love for her. If it weren’t for my father and those few others doing such a thing, she wouldn’t have ended up without a family.

Jessica’s arms hurt from his tight grip, the pain so unbearable that she blurted, “You’re hurting me, Wyatt. W-What exactly is wrong with you?”

Wyatt buried his head in the hollow of her shoulder; his voice was hoarse. “Do you love me, Jessie?”

Without hesitation, Jessica replied, “Very much so.”

“How much?”

Jessica pondered for a while before teasing, “That depends on your performance. I’ll love you more if you’re good to me. But if otherwise, I won’t love you anymore. Instead, I’ll go and find another man!”

Sensing a pain in her arms once more, she hurriedly coaxed, “All right, all right. I love you and won’t go looking for another man. Stop acting like a kid. You’re really hurting me.”

“For real? You’re not lying to me?” Wyatt cradled her face, his eyes seemingly carrying some suppressed emotion.

He hid his emotions exceedingly well, so Jessica didn’t notice anything amiss. She planted a kiss on him. “Yes. I love you very much. Otherwise, why would I take care of your mother? It’s not like I’ve got nothing to do.”

Is it not because you feel guilty? She could’ve orchestrated a car accident for our entire family, yet she didn’t do so.

As Wyatt gazed into her limpid and earnest eyes, he recalled her meticulous care of Pamela. The fury within him dissipated by half, and he kissed her back. “I love you, too.”

As long as you love me, I’ll pretend as though I know nothing.

“Okay, let go of me now that you’ve kissed me.” Unceremoniously slapping his hand away, Jessica opened the lunch box and urged, “Get to work after you’ve had breakfast. You still need to handle the company’s matters.”

By then, Wyatt had turned energetic again. “What did you bring for me?”

“Oatmeal.”

In a flash, Wyatt’s face fell. “I’ve been eating this for three days, and it’s still this? Can’t I have something else?”

At his mournful expression, Jessica rolled her eyes at him. “You’ll be in the office for the entire day, so having oatmeal in the morning is more nourishing. Okay, fine. I’ll cook you something else tomorrow. Be good and eat, quick.”

While he had breakfast, Jessica helped to straighten the CEO’s office slightly. daily new chapters upload only on alaniniz(dot)com Verily, she was stumped. “You could’ve just gone someplace to vent if you were angry. Why did you have to destroy your office? You ruined this desktop that cost tens of thousands and this rosewood cabinet. You really deserve to end up bankrupt and experience life, Wyatt!”

Wyatt’s gaze dimmed, and he shrugged. “What could I do when my temper spiked?”

Jessica was promptly rendered speechless.

Pouring him a glass of water, she started after a brief hesitation, “My application for the university I submitted has been approved. I want to go and further my studies, so I might have to go abroad for some time—”

“No! You’re already good enough, Babe. I want you to stay by my side and keep me company,” Wyatt interrupted, seemingly a tad panicked.

“It wouldn’t be for long. I’ll come back a few times each month,” Jessica fibbed.

In truth, she knew that she might never come back again once she had gone abroad.

Even if Curtis and Theodore weren’t pressuring her into leaving, she would still do so. She only approached Wyatt for revenge, and her resolve had already weakened once. As such, she couldn’t allow herself to fall deeper.

Aware of her intention, Wyatt naturally disagreed. “No, no. I want to see you every day. Aren’t you carving my heart out to leave?”

Averting her gaze, Jessica hardened her heart and declared, “That’s a university I’ve worked toward for a very long time, and I really want to go. If you insist on having me make a choice between going abroad and you, let’s break up.”

“Wait for a bit longer, okay? I’ll go with you when I’ve settled everything in Lopez Group.” Wyatt held her hand in his and carefully kissed it.

“Wyatt Lopez—”

“Didn’t you say you love me? Or was that a lie? I want to go with you wherever you go. Hadn’t I said that I’d always remain by your side?” Wyatt gave Jessica a peck.

The debt has been paid, and she must be tired after suffering much, so it’s enough. Admittedly, I’ve fallen for her.

 

Chapter 335

Chapter 335 To Give You A Present

Jessica’s heart skipped a beat. Though she wanted to refuse, she could not do so.

Finally, she nodded. “Okay.”

Just then, the phone rang, which gave her some time to calm herself. Seeing Jasmine as the caller, Jessica let Wyatt continue eating while she stepped aside to take the call.

As soon as the call connected, Jasmine asked, “Mr. Tylinski says Curtis and Nana are facing some problems. What happened?”

Since it was safer to have fewer people know about the matter, Jessica decided to say, “I’m not sure, either, but I think they broke up. Nobody knows where Nana is now.”

“Huh? But how—”

Jessica’s eyes glinted, and she whispered, “This is their matter. We shouldn’t interfere. Anyway, are you and your son allergic to cats? Nana’s Ragdoll cat is still in the condominium. I’m afraid I’ll do a poor job of taking care of it. Can you please help to take care of it until Nana returns?”

She feared she might not be able to contact Jasmine in time if she found an opportunity to flee.

Rayna had accompanied Jefferson to Frosa and could not return for the time being. Hence, the Ragdoll cat needed someone to take care of it.

“Sure. Carl loves cats,” Jasmine agreed to it immediately. Still worried about Rayna, she asked, “But isn’t Curtis worried about Nana? She’s missing, after all.”

“I think so? Anyway, Nana says she’ll call me if something happens.”

Jasmine hummed in response. “All right. Let me know if she does. I’ll definitely be able to help out if it’s something within my power.”

“Of course.”

After hanging up, Jessica returned to the couch.

Wyatt asked curiously, “Was that Jasmine?”

“Yes. She says Carl likes cats, so I let them take Nana’s Ragdoll cat home to take care of it. I’m afraid something might happen to the cat if I don’t check on it often,” explained Jessica.

Wyatt looked up and stared at her. “Is it really not because you’re trying to make arrangements before running away?”

A rush of panic flooded into Jessica’s heart. She punched him angrily and snapped, “Hey, I’m not that immoral, okay? It’s because your mom doesn’t like pets that shed fur. If you keep saying that, I’ll just return to the condominium. Why bother wasting my energy taking care of you when you think of me as a bad person? You’re horrible!”

Wyatt grabbed her hand and grinned. “There, there. I’m just afraid. It’s my fault, okay? I’ll make you some dinner tonight. How about that?”

“Hmph. Can you really call your cooking dinner? I bet even animals won’t eat it.”

A hurt expression spread over Wyatt’s face. “Babe, don’t be like that. I’m really talented at cooking. You just never realized it.”

“Ugh. I’m not talking to you anymore. I need to get to work.” With that, she snatched the bowl from him and deftly packed the lunch box. Just as she got up to leave, Wyatt grabbed her hand.

He feared she would run away if he let her go. After all, she had gotten her revenge. There was nothing that could make her stay.

Could she be lying when she said she loved me?

Right then, Jessica turned around and warned, “Let go. I’m going to be late if I don’t leave now.”

Wyatt squeezed her hand tightly before slowly letting it go. “Thank you for your hard work, Jessie. Please remember that I love you and will always be by your side.”

“I know. Stop being so cheesy.” Jessica forcefully pulled her hand away.

At that very moment, a secretary knocked on the door. Hearing that, Jessica hurriedly removed her hand and rushed out the door, saying to the secretary tactfully, “It’s a little messy in there. Please get some cleaners to clean it up.”

G-Get some cleaners?

The secretary was so close to misunderstanding the entire situation when she saw Jessica’s expression. Reminding herself of her role as a secretary, the former suppressed her curiosity and calmly gave a brief answer.

After getting permission to enter the CEO’s office, the secretary realized the office was in a complete mess. She took in a deep breath and spotted Wyatt on the couch with his head lowered, looking utterly dejected.

Seeing that, the secretary quietly put down the documents and went out to get the cleaners.

She dared not ask him a single question.

Meanwhile, Jasmine had arranged a time with Jessica and gotten the keys to Rayna’s house through a courier service. Just as she was on the way to the condominium to get the cat, she received a call from Carl, who said he wanted to tag along as well.

Thus, Jasmine brought him along to get the cat from the condominium.

The condominium’s floor was covered in dust since it had been unoccupied for many days. The Ragdoll kitten sat curled up on the couch in the living room. It was not shy when it saw Jasmine and Carl entering the house.

It made its way over with its short legs and lay on Carl’s feet.

Noting that, Carl squatted and patted it. Clearly, he liked the cat. “Mommy, is this Ms. Garland’s cat?”

“Yes. She’s not around, so we’ll have to take care of it for the time being,” Jasmine said while opening the cage and putting the Ragdoll cat in it. “You’ve got to take good care of it when we get back, okay?”

“Don’t worry, Mommy. Ms. Garland’s cat is my cat. I’ll definitely take good care of it.”

Jasmine knocked his head gently. “Tsk. Look at you. I can’t believe you already know how to please someone at such an age. I heard that you were even eyeing Rayna’s unborn baby, eh?”

To her surprise, Carl said matter-of-factly, “I’m just worried I won’t be able to find a wife when I go to the army. So, I want to find a partner before that happens.”

“What if the baby is a boy?”

Carl thought about it before saying, “Then, she’ll give birth to another one. She definitely won’t just have one baby. If not, no one will inherit her good looks anymore. It’ll be a pity.”

Shaking her head, Jasmine commented, “You and your cheeky ideas. I really wonder if you’re my child. You’re not like your dad or me.”

Carl responded, “Of course I am! Who knows? I might’ve just inherited Daddy’s hidden attribute that you didn’t know of.”

Jasmine did not know whether to laugh or cry in response to that.

As they were leaving the condominium with the cat, Carl asked, “Will Daddy really return during Christmas?”

Jasmine immediately smacked her forehead. She had been so busy at Sanders Group that she forgot to tell Carl about Theodore. “Oh! I almost forgot all about it. Your dad’s back. He’s in Norwal City now.”

Carl’s eyes lit up instantly. “Really?’

“Yes. I’m not lying to you. Your daddy will be shocked if he sees you. I’ll get him to have dinner with us tonight,” Jasmine said with a smile while patting his head.

“Hurry up and tell Daddy, then.” Carl had not seen his father in many years. Now that he had found out he was meeting the latter soon, he got excited and urged Jasmine to make a call.

At that, Jasmine smiled and pulled out her phone to call Theodore.

Meanwhile, Carl held his breath.

It did not take long before the call got through. Theodore was the first to speak. “What’s up?”

“Let’s have dinner at my house tonight.” Glancing at Carl, Jasmine added, “I have a huge present for you.”

However, Theodore did not agree to it right away.

Jasmine’s heart sank when there was no answer from him. “Is your mom making things difficult for you?”

“No. It’s my dad. He got hurt at Xyperia.” Theodore’s tone was laced with helplessness and worry.

“Is it serious?”

“No, but the troops are scattered. So, I’ve got to go over to help and will have to stay there for some time. My flight is at eleven o’clock. I’m afraid I can’t have dinner with you tonight,” said Theodore apologetically.

Jasmine glanced at her watch.

It’s already ten o’clock.

She asked, “Are you flying from Norwal City Airport?”

“Yes.”

“Wait for me there!” With that, she hung up and ran to the car with Carl. “Your daddy’s leaving the country soon. I’m taking you to the airport now.”

The situation at Xyperia was extremely tense. There was no telling when Theodore would come back once he left.

 

Chapter 336

Chapter 336 Waiting For You

Carl asked, “Daddy’s leaving again so soon after coming back?”

“That’s right!” Jasmine didn’t drive as fast as she could on the highway to the airport because her child was in the car with her. Besides, he was getting restless. If he were older, he would’ve taken the wheels himself.

Forty minutes later, they arrived at their destination.

When she saw the boarding time for Theodore’s flight was over, she hurriedly gave Gabriel a call. As the flight attendants were doing a headcount on the plane, she arrived at the airport strip with the groundskeeper.

A flight attendant went to the first-class cabin and informed Theodore, “A woman with the last name Sanders is looking for you, Mr. Xavier.”

Knowing that Jasmine had arrived, Theodore immediately exited the plane.

In the distance, he saw her standing in the cold breeze, her coat fluttering in the wind.

When he saw the tall boy on her right, he was dumbfounded. Isn’t he Rayna’s friend’s child?

Carl was similarly dumbstruck the moment he saw Theodore.

“Mommy, he… he…” The boy turned to his mother. “I met this man twice before.”

In response, Jasmine patted him and said, “He’s your father!”

After Theodore strode toward her and stopped, she grinned and pushed Carl toward him. “Since you’re leaving, and we can’t have dinner tonight, I decided to deliver you your ‘present.”

Theodore was temporarily at a loss for words.

Both son and father gazed at each other quietly.

In the end, Jasmine broke the silence. “Why are you two just staring at each other?”

“Jasmine Sanders!” Theodore’s expression abruptly darkened as he uttered with stifled anger, “How dare you hide such an important thing from me for so long!”

She barked, “Do you think I wanted to do that? If you want to blame someone, blame your outrageous mother! I took her money to raise our child, but I didn’t know she changed my letter! You don’t get to shout at me! Shouldn’t you be thanking me instead for raising your son so well? I wanted to let you know when I went to Jetroina back then, but you pissed me off—”

Without warning, Theodore pulled Jasmine into his embrace and hugged her tightly. “You d*mn woman! Thank you for your hard work, and I’m sorry you had to deal with the Sanders family while raising our son.”

Her eyes were already wet as she hugged his waist. “It’s nothing. I’m just glad you’re back.”

“I should’ve known.” Fury rose in his voice before he sighed resignedly. It should’ve been obvious to me early on why this child looks so familiar. It’s because he resembles Jasmine. I bet she kept hiding him from me because she was afraid I would find out the truth.

Jasmine smiled. “It’s not too late for you to know now. Aren’t you going to greet your son? While we keep hugging each other, he’s just standing in the cold breeze.”

Promptly, Theodore released her and went to Carl.

Carl waved at him courageously and beamed. “Hello, Daddy!”

Upon squatting down to reach the same eye level as the boy, Theodore intentionally put on a stern expression. “You noticed we looked alike early on, didn’t you? Why didn’t you tell me anything?”

“Mommy said you were in the military, so I thought you would only return during Christmas,” Carl replied innocently. “Back then, I thought I was the son of one of your brothers.”

“I’m an only child,” informed Theodore resignedly. I think I’ll be remembering the scare I had today for the rest of my life.

The boy grinned. “Does it matter? It’s not like it’s too late for us to reunite, even though it has happened so late. You’re still my Daddy!”

“Come here.” The man’s voice was trembling slightly as he opened his arms. “Let me hug you.”

Without delay, Carl pounced into his father’s embrace.

Theodore’s arms were shaking as he hugged his child’s tiny frame. It wasn’t easy for him to control his emotion. “I’m sorry I couldn’t be by your side during your childhood.”

“Come on, Daddy,” the boy spat with disdain. “Mommy said men shouldn’t be melodramatic. Besides, I’m only four years old. My childhood has just started, okay?”

“Your mommy taught you well.”

“But of course! She’s the best mommy in the whole world!” Carl praised proudly. “That’s why you need to appreciate her. Otherwise, I’ll take her and leave.”

“I will.” Patting the boy’s head, Theodore uttered, “I love you two the most.”

It was then the flight attendant suddenly appeared. “It’s time to leave, Mr. Xavier.”

Upon carrying Carl by his arm, Theodore stood up. “I’m not leaving anymore.” Now that I know I have a four-year-old son, I just want to return home and keep him company instead of going anywhere else.

“You should go,” Jasmine suggested. “I think you should still visit your injured father. Besides, we’ve waited for you for a few years now. What are a few more months?

“There are people taking care of him. I really want to stay with you two.”

Shaking her head, she chuckled. “Your headspace really was thrown into chaos after you saw your son, huh? You should really go for your mother dislikes me. If you refuse to go back, I have a feeling she’ll hate me even more.”

Upon hugging him, she continued, “I know it won’t be long. Our son and I will be waiting for you.”

The flight attendant urged Theodore to leave again.

Hence, with no other choice, he put Carl down, removed the scarf around his neck, and put it on the boy. “Take good care of your mommy, okay? I’ll go and take care of some business.”

“Roger!” Carl responded with a straightened back. “You must return early, Daddy.”

“I will.” After making that promise with his son, Theodore unwillingly returned to the plane with the flight attendant.

Although, he had to go through the inspection again because he left the plane. As he did, he turned his line of sight toward his family.

Jasmine smiled faintly and waved at him.

Gazing at her, he thought, It’s thanks to Curtis’ matter that I returned from Norham. Otherwise, I would’ve never returned to Norwal City due to that misunderstanding, and I would’ve never known that

I had a son. I’m grateful for what fate has arranged for me.

As Jasmine watched the hatch door closed with Carl, she sighed. “If I knew your father was going away, I would’ve let you two meet earlier.”

“It’s pointless to regret that now, Mommy. You can’t turn back the clock. Rather than lamenting about that, you should think about what present you should give me on Christmas. It’s still going to be the two of us celebrating it this year.”

Dissatisfied, she questioned, “I already gave you your present. You still want more?”

“Eh?”

“Haven’t you met your father already?”

It was then Carl realized what was going on and protested, “You’re too cunning, Mommy. Isn’t it your duty to take me to meet with my daddy? If you don’t want to buy me a gift, just say so.”

She nodded. “You’re right. I’m too poor to buy you a gift.”

“You’re so stingy, Mommy.” He sighed and touched the scarf on his neck. “In that case, I’ll use my money to buy a gift for you this year.”

“You’re such a good son.” Gently pinching his cheek, Jasmine smiled. “I look forward to my gift, then!”

Silently, he thought, I feel like she’s trying to scam me of my money when she said that!

Rayna took Jefferson on a one-day cruise trip. The next day, they arrived at Jetroina.

The signal in the sea was bad. Thus, she had to reconnect to the internet on roaming with her new phone before she received Jessica’s message, which stated: Jeremy’s laboratory is in Yorksland,

Frosa. I was worried Wyatt would get suspicious, so I didn’t ask for the exact address. However, I did narrow the search area and marked all the laboratories in Yorksland. I’m sending you the map now.

Frosa was quite far away, so Rayna wanted to take a plane there, which she thought of switching to in the middle of the trip.

However, Jefferson might not make it in his condition.

Chapter 337

Chapter 337 I Need You

In the end, she bought the tickets for the ship. Even though the journey by sea took more time, the ship would sail directly for Frosa. She had taken into consideration Jefferson’s condition and the high probability of them being tracked by Curtis if they were to fly.

Over the last two days, the emotionless Jefferson barely said a word as he allowed her to lead him around. Rayna’s heart ached in sympathy because she felt she was guiding an empty shell of a man.

Once they settled into the ship, Rayna prepared a cup of warm water and handed it to him along with his medication.

When he took them without a word, Rayna couldn’t stand it any longer. “Jefferson, it pains me to see you this way. Whatever it is, tell me instead of keeping it to yourself.”

She hated it when he behaved like he was already a dead man.

Jefferson glanced out the window, taking in the expansive blue sky and the glistening tips of the ocean waves.

A short while later, he replied softly, “Don’t go looking for the lab. Take me sightseeing instead. I’m well aware of my own condition, and going to the lab isn’t going to make a difference.”

Despite taking his medication a moment ago, he began to cough uncontrollably until his hands were covered in blood.

Rayna, eyes burning, frantically wiped his hands with a paper towel. “I’m sure it will work. Who knows, they might already have completed their research by the time we arrive.”

Holding his hand tightly, Rayna pleaded, “You’re only in your twenties. How can you resign yourself to death? At the very least, stay alive for my sake. I want you to find happiness.”

Jefferson gave her face a gentle stroke.

Such soft and tender cheeks. She looks the same as when we first met. In fact, she didn’t seem to have changed at all. And now, she has grown very confident and can face adversities without my protection. Curtis is right to say that I have underestimated her. She can no longer be restrained anymore.

“I was wrong to be crippled by my fear,” Jefferson murmured. “I was worried that my brother would attack you but learned that you were more courageous than I thought and was capable of protecting yourself.”

Instead of guiding her properly, he pushed her away causing them to lose each other.

Rayna shook her head. “No, you have always been protecting me. You’re the reason why I am unharmed. I still need you now, just like in the past.”

“But my days are numbered.”

Rayna—with a firm yet sorrowful look in her eyes—shushed him with a finger on his lips. “You’ll live a long life. Once you recover, take me skiing, all right? Didn’t you promise to teach me how to ski?”

Jefferson couldn’t help but smile.

He wasn’t under the illusion that Rayna broke up with Curtis because of any love she had for him. He was well aware that she sympathized with him due to his impending death.

Consequently, she was just trying to comfort him.

Jefferson held her hands tightly. “All right. I’ll teach you how to ski once I’ve recovered. Moreover, let’s go traveling and see the most beautiful sceneries across the world.”

Wearing a teary-eyed smile, Rayna gave him a forceful nod. “I’ll be waiting.”

“Mmm-hmm.”

Thereafter, Jefferson’s mood visibly improved as he began chatting with Rayna. It was only then that the latter’s concerns were finally eased.

At noon, Rayna brought Jefferson to the restaurant for lunch.

Even though Chanaean food was served on board, it was barely cooked through and even had a stench to it, as the chef wasn’t Chanaean.

Rayna couldn’t stand it anymore after having a few mouthfuls. When her stomach began to churn, she attempted to rush to the restroom. Nevertheless, she was unable to make it in time, so she turned her head and puked into the garbage bin instead.

With an anxious expression, Jefferson came over to stroke her back. “Are you all right?”

Rayna shook her head. “I’m fine. I just can’t get used to the food on the ship.”

Jefferson poured a glass of water for her at once. When she had finally recovered, he summoned the waiter and whispered something into the latter’s ear.

Noticing what was going on, Rayna asked, “What did you tell him?”

“I got him to prepare lunch again.”

“It’s fine. I’ll eat something else instead.”

However, Jefferson insisted, “No, we’ll have to change the food if you’re not used to it. Otherwise, it will be bad for your stomach.”

Rayna had no choice but to let him have his way.

Ten minutes later, the waiter came back with another Chanaean meal.

Rayna wasn’t sure if a different chef had prepared it, but the food no longer smelled and was spicy enough for her taste. As a result, she wolfed it down in no time.

Once they were done with lunch, Jefferson handed the waiter his card.

However, the waiter returned it after twice failing to swipe it. “Sir, your card isn’t working.”

“Give it another try.” Jefferson’s brows furrowed slightly. “I use it very often.”

Unfortunately, the waiter came back when it still didn’t work.

“Here, take mine.” Rayna handed her card over as she teased Jefferson, “You might have used it too many times and forgot that you emptied the account.”

Jefferson replied with certainty, “That can’t be. There are at least tens of millions inside.”

Rayna was bereft of words.

Upon leaving the restaurant, Jefferson insisted on using the phone on the ship. A gloomy expression descended upon his face when he was informed of something over the phone.

After hanging up, he informed Rayna, “All my cards have been frozen.”

“Is this your brother’s doing?”

“Other than him, I can’t think of anyone else capable of doing so.” Jefferson attempted to make another call. “I’ll get Ringo to come over.”

However, Rayna held his hand back. “It’s tiring for him to go through such a hassle. Why don’t you call him when you reach Frosa instead? Besides, we can still use my card.”

She then dragged Jefferson away. “All right now, it’s time for you to go back to your room and rest.”

Jefferson had no choice but to comply.

After she had painstakingly returned him to his room and watched him fall asleep, Rayna trod out softly and walked to the ship’s deck where the wind pounded on her cheeks.

Despite the painful sensation she felt, Rayna felt invigorated by it.

As she stared out at the deep blue sea, her mind began to wander. Does Arnaud know where we are? I wonder how Curtis is back in Norwal City. Is James taking good care of him?

Other than Jefferson’s sickness, her second biggest fear was Arnaud telling Curtis about the matter.

Therefore, she hoped that her arrangements didn’t come too late.

Despite her detailed planning and securing James and Cillian’s help, little did she expect Arnaud to have already sent the information to the Faymon residence before she even kick-started her plan.

Meanwhile, at the Faymon residence, Alfred fell into a long silence after reading the anonymous letter.

Although he was aware that such letters usually come with insidious motives, he still couldn’t stop the surge of emotions within him when he learned that his daughter-in-law was still alive.

After a long while, he gave the number on the letter a call.

“Hello, who is it?” When the call quickly connected, the gentle and familiar voice almost brought tears to Alfred’s eyes.

“Xandra?” he asked in a quivering voice. “Is it really you, Xandra?”

A brief silence was followed by the sounds of a woman’s repressed sobs. “Dad…”

Alfred’s lips began to tremble. “Xandra, you’re still alive!”

As Alfred’s health was deteriorating and stopped him from going out, he even obtained Sandy’s permission after much persuasion to have the butler bring her over. He was dying to meet his dear girl.

Waiting anxiously in the living room, he finally heard the faint roar of an engine twenty minutes later. Only then did he rush out of the house excitedly.

From afar, he could see the butler leading a woman who was dressed in a black jacket. Even though he couldn’t recognize her face, he couldn’t deny the familiarity of her eyes.

At the sight of Alfred, Sandy pursed her lips in silence.

When both of them were finally standing face to face, Sandy’s shoulders began to bob while tears gradually streamed down her face. The sympathetic Alfred pulled her into his embrace. “Xandra, I know how tough things have been…”

 

Chapter 338

Chapter 338 This Is No Time For Jokes

Unable to hold her emotions back any longer, Sandy wailed as she buried her face in Alfred’s shoulders. Even the butler felt for her.

With his heart going out to her, Alfred patted her on the back to provide comfort.

Once Sandy had cried enough, Alfred invited her into the house and asked in a concerned tone, “Xandra, where have you been over the last twenty years? How did all this happen?”

Wiping her tears away, she explained softly, “Back then, I attended a dinner with Sylvester related to an investment project. During that dinner, I ran into Boniel Terblanc…”

Alfred’s brows furrowed, “The Terblanc family from Yartran?”

Sandy nodded.

She proceeded to relate everything that happened to Alfred, including her reason for coming to Norwal City. After the blood clot in her brain was removed, she regained her memories and saw Curtis a few times in secret.

Trembling in rage, Alfred slammed his cup on the table. “What they’ve done is too much! If I had investigated further and found out that the Terblanc family was behind this, I would have gone all out against them!”

Pieces of the shattered cup subsequently fell onto the ground.

Worried that Alfred’s emotions would affect his health, Sandy hurried over to calm him down. “Dad, that’s all in the past now. You have to watch your health.”

The teary-eyed Alfred looked at her intently. “Xandra, I failed you. If only I had… All I did was engross myself with Curtis and Faymon Group…”

Sandy shook her head. “Don’t say that, Dad. I know you had no choice back then. Even if you continued the investigations, you would only learn of my death, which would end the search for me.”

Holding her hand, Alfred let out a sigh.

Not wanting Alfred to worry, Sandy changed the topic. “Dad, where’s Sylvester?”

“He…” Alfred threw her a hesitant glance, unable to bring himself to tell her.

As she felt her heart tighten, Sandy probed, “Did Boniel harm him?”

With a pained look on his face, Alfred explained, “He gave me a call, asking me to see him. By the time I arrived, he had put a gun into his mouth and shot himself, in front of Curtis no less.”

Sandy’s eyes widened, thinking that Alfred was joking.

“He might have known about your kidnap by Boniel. Helpless to save you, he was probably overwhelmed by despair.” An excruciating pain gripped his heart while speaking.

“No… No…” Sandy mumbled to herself, unable to believe her ears. “Boniel promised me that he wouldn’t harm Sylvester. How could he be dead? It can’t be…”

As her reaction broke Alfred’s heart, he couldn’t help but add, “Xandra, that was what happened. I couldn’t bring myself to lie to you. Curtis was present when his father killed himself and was traumatized by the scene. In my fear that something untoward would happen to him, I had him hypnotized to forget the incident. Fortunately, he grew up to be an outstanding young man just like his father.”

Overwhelmed by grief, Sandy wept with her face buried in her hands, tears flowing through the gaps of her fingers.

She had thought that all her sacrifices would allow her husband and son to live a good life. Unfortunately, she was devastated by the cold hard truth upon regaining her memories.

“How could he leave me behind…” Sandy bawled in despair. “What’s the point of all my suffering then? I might as well die alongside him!”

“Stop with this foolish thought, Xandra,” Alfred comforted her. “Back when I thought all of you were dead, all my hair turned grey. And now that you’re alive, you can’t believe how happy I am. Curtis, too, will be equally elated.”

“Dad, no!” Sandy grabbed Alfred’s hand and pleaded, “Don’t tell him. He has suffered enough. Just pretend that I’m still dead.”

“But you’re his mother…”

Shaking her head in tears, Sandy explained, “I couldn’t ask for more seeing that he has grown up into a fine young man. I don’t want him to learn of the past, so I beg of you. Please don’t tell him.”

Alfred felt indignant on her behalf. “I’m sure he’ll understand. Are you really satisfied with just watching him from afar?”

Sandy continued to shake her head vehemently.

Finally, Alfred decided to acquiesce to her wishes. Just as he was about to speak, the door opened abruptly, and in walked Curtis, who was greeted by the sight of the two.

Panic gripped Sandy the moment she saw him.

Despite the grim expression that descended upon his face, Curtis took off his jacket and handed it to the housekeeper. Entering the living room, he focused his sharp gaze on Sandy.

“Curtis, what brings you here?” Alfred greeted him with the intent of ushering him away. “You must be hungry. I’m famished too. Let’s go have something to eat.”

“That can wait.” Standing upright, Curtis stared at Sandy as he inquired in a grim tone, “Is she your guest?”

Alfred nodded. “That’s right. We’re done, and she’s just about to leave.”

Curtis’ brows furrowed. “In that case, why is she crying?”

“Um, it’s… it’s…” Alfred stuttered before adding, “actually, she’s a salesperson. She’s crying because I scolded her over the outrageous requests she requested.”

Upon wiping away her tears, Sandy got up from the sofa. “Old Mr. Faymon, I’m sorry to have bothered you.”

When she tried to leave in a hurry, Curtis grabbed her arm.

“I recognize your voice.” Curtis gave her a solemn look. “You were the one who called Rayna and told her that you are Sandy Verlice, Jefferson’s mother.”

“You’ve made a mistake. I’m not.” Sandy forced an awkward smile while suppressing the emotion in her voice.

Snorting in response, Curtis sneered, “The mistake isn’t mine! Why have you come to the Faymon residence? Did Jefferson send you?”

Sandy didn’t dare reply as she tried to struggle free from Curtis’s grasp to no avail.

“Enough, Curtis, let her go,” Alfred interrupted. Deliberately ignoring the pleading look in Sandy’s eyes, he sighed in resignation. “She’s your mother.”

The words struck Curtis like lightning.

Staring blankly at Sandy, he clarified with Alfred. “Are you going to marry her?”

Alfred glared at Curtis as he bellowed, “Nonsense, she’s your biological mother! Also, I’m actually your grandfather. It’s time you change the way you address me.”

Rendered speechless, Curtis released Sandy and pinched his forehead. “Dad, this is no time for jokes.”

Curtis was in a bad mood given that his fiancée had just eloped with someone else.

“I’m not joking at all.” Wearing a grim expression, Alfred—ignoring Sandy’s protests—related the past to Curtis.

Sandy sobbed in a muffled tone with her hand covering her mouth.

As Curtis stood there listening, an icy expression descended upon his face, filling the room with a cold wave of iciness and tension.

Once he finished, Alfred sighed with an expression that brimmed with guilt. “I’ve failed your father. If only I had brought all of you home, none of this would have happened.”

Unexpectedly, Curtis replied calmly, “I’ve seen a copy of our DNA report. Both of us are not related by blood.”

“Upon learning that Wyatt was investigating the matter, I had the results tampered with.” Alfred explained, “I didn’t know what to tell you if you were to see the DNA results.”

Curtis clenched his trousers all of a sudden.

Turning his attention to Sandy, he questioned her, “Is this the truth, or is this one of the schemes you hatched with Jefferson?”

Bereft of words, Sandy managed to eke out an apology after a long pause.

“I’m sorry.”

Alfred couldn’t hold himself back from defending her. “This isn’t your mother’s fault, Curtis. Don’t blame her.”

Devoid of emotion, Curtis responded with a sullen look as he summoned Jeremy with a call, ignoring Alfred’s words.

 

Chapter 339

Chapter 339 Rayna Has Resigned From Faymon Group

Soon, Jeremy arrived with a big medical box.

He was baffled by the sight of the trio in the living room where a woman was crying amidst a suffocating atmosphere.

W-What’s going on?

Rolling up his sleeve to expose his arm, Curtis flatly instructed, “I need to do a DNA test between me and her.”

“A DNA test?” The stunned Jeremy turned toward Sandy, as if he could guess what was going on.

No wonder Curtis told me to bring my equipment.

Opening the big medical box, Jeremy retrieved a machine with a thirteen-inch screen that looked like a computer. The moment he turned it on, it revealed a complicated setting.

“Put a drop of blood here.” Jeremy pointed to a silver plate on the machine before handing Curtis and Sandy needles to collect their blood with.

A DNA test at the hospital usually required three days. Even those with the best equipment still needed five hours to complete the process. Compared to them, Jeremy’s machine was different.

He had spent five years together with the researchers in Loang to invent it. With just a single drop of blood, the machine could instantly analyze a person’s health condition and propose a corresponding treatment plan.

In consideration of their service to Loang and many other factors, the Loang government had all the researchers sign a non-disclosure agreement. Therefore, other than research facilities, only militaries were in possession of the machine.

With an emotionless face, Curtis drew a drop of blood and put it on top of the plate.

Sandy hesitated for a while before stepping back while giving Curtis a teary-eyed look. “Forget it. There’s no point in testing, as you’re not my son anyway.”

“We’ll know for sure once the test is done,” Curtis replied coldly as he grabbed Sandy’s hand. As he shot Jeremy a glance, the latter took Sandy’s blood without a moment of delay.

Once the blood was dropped onto the silver plate, the dark screen came alive a few seconds later. Rows of Anglandurn words populated it rapidly before finally coming to a stop.

After going through the data, Jeremy turned to face Curtis. “Both of you have a DNA match of ninety- eight percent—she’s related to you by blood.”

With her shoulders trembling, tears flowed down Sandy’s face.

In contrast to her, Curtis stood there without a change in emotion.

While consoling Sandy, Alfred turned toward Curtis and lamented, “Curtis, I know what you’ve learned today is a lot to take in, and the fault is very much mine. Having said that, she’s your real mother and has sacrificed a lot for you. I hope that you’ll respect and acknowledge her.”

“I’m not a ball that either of you can kick around.” Curtis wasn’t mad, for he had always dealt with problems with calm. It was just that the frostiness he exuded was often mistaken as hostility by others.

Giving Alfred a cold stare, he continued, “You claim that this is for my own good, while she tells me that she has sacrificed a lot for me. However, none of you have ever given me the right to the truth. All this

while, I have always assumed that I was an adopted orphan. To repay my debt of gratitude toward the Faymon family, I was willing to sacrifice my life. The reason I tried to investigate my origins was to find out why I was abandoned and to see if there was some sort of misunderstanding. But now, you end up telling me such an outrageous story.”

The person he had addressed as “father” for twenty years turned out to be his biological grandfather, making him a true descendant of the Faymon family.

When he had the Terblanc family investigated together with Jefferson’s origins, he even mocked and pitied the latter for it. Little did he expect his circumstances to be worst than Jefferson’s.

At that moment, it dawned upon him why Rayna had broken up with him in tears. Her knowledge of the truth was probably the reason for her decisiveness.

She must have known that Jefferson and I are brothers of the same mother. What a joke!

Alfred murmured, “Curtis…”

“You’re right. Now that your daughter-in-law has returned after a twenty-year disappearance, you should be consoling her.” A mocking smile flashed across Curtis’ face before he turned and left.

The moment Jeremy regained his senses, he quickly packed up and ran after Curtis.

With the latter brimming with hostility, Jeremy didn’t dare approach him. All he could do was quietly keep his distance until both of them were sent to Faymon Group.

Upon their arrival, Curtis alighted from the car and ordered the driver to take Jeremy back. With an indifferent expression, he reassured Jeremy, “There’s no need to follow me. This revelation doesn’t affect me in any way.”

Nodding in acknowledgment, Jeremy couldn’t help but comment, “I seemed to have seen her somewhere before…”

“Her name is Sandy Verlice.”

“What?” The shocked Jeremy raised his head to look at Curtis. “I-Isn’t she—”

“Kenneth’s second wife and also Dorothy’s mother.” Curtis’ tone was devoid of emotions as if he wasn’t involved in the matter. “Previously, she was married to Boniel Terblanc, Jefferson’s father.”

With that, Curtis turned and left.

As the shocked Jeremy remained in the car, he stared blankly at Curtis’ leaving silhouette.

F*ck, how is something as ridiculous as this even possible!

Despite learning the shocking truth that day, Curtis was barely affected by it.

Other than the anger he felt in the beginning, Curtis quickly returned to his work once he was back in the office. During that time, he rejected the repeated calls Alfred made to him.

It wasn’t until five days had passed that Gabriel carried a big box into the CEO’s office.

As the contents of the box looked heavy, Gabriel almost broke his back carrying it. Upon entering the office, he carefully placed it on the table before handing Curtis two documents.

“Mr. Faymon, these are the transfer agreements for Planet Cruise and the management rights of Obelisk Mall.” Gabriel spoke carefully in front of the sullen-looking Curtis.

However, Curtis was buried in his work as if he didn’t hear the former at all, leaving Gabriel standing there in silence.

Gabriel wasn’t aware of what happened four days ago at the Faymon residence. Hence, he assumed that Curtis’ gloominess was the result of Rayna’s departure.

It wasn’t until ten whole minutes had passed that Curtis began to react. As he flipped through the two documents casually, his eyes darkened when they fell upon the feminine signature at the bottom.

When he glanced at the big box, he let out a sneer as if he could guess what was in them. “She really is a woman of her word. Before leaving, she remembered to return everything she promised.”

Is she never going to return?

Sensing his boss’ exasperated tone, Gabriel couldn’t help but shiver as he lowered his head to look at the document in his hand.

Mr. Faymon, there’s more here… D*mn it, how unlucky can I be? Every time something happens between Mr. Faymon and Ms. Garland, I will always end up as the go-between and suffer because of it! Being an assistant is such a tough job!

After taking a deep breath, Gabriel meekly handed the document in his hand to Curtis. “Mr. Faymon, this is Ms. Garland’s resignation letter. It’s already signed.”

No sooner had he spoken than an icy atmosphere engulfed the entire office—anyone around would shiver in fear.

Rayna’s second resignation from Faymon Group made for exciting times indeed.

Chapter 340

Chapter 340 A Chance To Choose

Curtis’ expression was grim. She broke up with me unilaterally and returned everything. Now, she even resigned from Faymon Group. She just wants nothing to do with me! Am I an object? Why am I getting thrown around by everyone?

A dozen minutes had gone by, and Curtis was still keeping mum. At that moment, there was a tense aura around him.

Gabriel’s legs were shivering, and he was on the verge of breaking down. Please say something, Mr. Faymon. Anything will do.

“Get out.”

Gabriel thought he heard something, but he wasn’t sure. Hence, he turned toward Curtis. Gabriel felt a chill down his spine when he saw how solemn Curtis’ expression was. “M-Mr. Faymon? What did you —”

Without even lifting his head, Curtis yelled, “I told you to get the he*l out!”

“Yes!” Gabriel promptly scampered out of the CEO’s office like a mouse.

Right then, Curtis was left alone in the office.

A long while later, Curtis started a program to check the location of the self-defense ring that he had given Rayna.

The computer screen loaded for a while before showing the location of the ring. According to the program, the ring was located in a hotel named LockeTiti Hotel in Xenhall, Frosa.

Curtis smirked when he saw the address. Jeremy’s laboratory is in Frosa. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out why Rayna had brought Jefferson there. However, I didn’t expect her to act so quickly!

Curtis suppressed his anger and searched for LockeTiti Hotel’s contact before making a call.

Meanwhile, after six days on the sea, Rayna and Jefferson finally arrived in the city of Xenhall in Frosa, which was over thirty thousand kilometers away from Chanaea.

It was drizzling in Xenhall that day. With the temperature just slightly above freezing point, it was so cold that it could make one shiver all over.

Upon arriving at LockeTiti Hotel, Rayna noticed the line at the reception. Not wanting Jefferson to tire himself out, she told him to wait in the lounge area while she checked them in.

Moments after Jefferson left, he returned with a cup of hot chocolate. He gave the hot chocolate to Rayna and said, “I’m all right. I’ve been taking my medication over the past few days, so I feel good. I’ll wait with you.”

Rayna nodded and took a sip of the hot chocolate.

Five minutes later, it was finally their turn to check in. Rayna handed the passports over and uttered in fluent Ferropenian, “I want a suite for five days.”

“A moment, please.” The receptionist took the passports and smiled politely.

The receptionist then started checking them in, but the phone suddenly rang. Seeing that her colleagues were busy, the receptionist answered the phone. “Good day! This is LockeTiti Hotel.”

The person on the other end of the call said something to the receptionist.

“May I know who you’re looking for? I’ll check from my end,” the receptionist replied.

The conversation on the phone went on, and the receptionist suddenly glanced at her computer screen before raising her gaze toward Rayna.

Rayna was baffled. Why is the receptionist looking at me when she’s on the phone with someone else?

In the next second, the receptionist passed the phone to Rayna and said, “Ms. Garland, Mr. Faymon of Norwal City in Chanaea would like to have a word with you.”

Norwal City? Mr. Faymon? That has to be Curtis! I came here by ship, and the route I took wasn’t a common one. Besides, I even had James’ help. How did Curtis find out about my location? He even called the hotel directly. Rayna knew the answer to her questions when she lifted her hand and saw the ring.

Unfortunately for her, she forgot to return the ring. Oh my… The self-defense ring has a tracker, and that’s how Curtis knows my location!

Jefferson was listening intently. He then looked at Rayna and remained silent.

On the other hand, Rayna took a pause before taking the phone and said, “Mr. Faymon.”

Since they had already broken up, she had to address him differently.

“Sandy went to the Faymon residence.” Curtis’ voice was so cold that when Rayna heard it, she could sense his anger. “I know everything now,” he added.

Rayna’s heart sank when she heard that. I’m one step behind. Arnaud had already told the Faymon family about it!

She then closed her eyes and uttered in a slightly bitter tone, “Does that include the relationship between you and—”

“Yes,” Curtis interrupted. “Didn’t we make a promise to never lie to each other? Rayna, you hid a lot of things from me, and you’ve even brought him to Frosa.”

“I’m sorry.”

Curtis snickered icily in response. There was a hint of despair in his voice when he said, “Rayna, don’t you know what kind of person I am? Did you think I would kill him after I find out about it? You’re such a foolish and self-righteous woman! I’m not an irrational teenager! If I were to seek revenge, I would kill his father and destroy the Terblanc family!”

Rayna gripped her phone tightly, and she started choking up. “I’m sorry, but he’s dying. I can’t watch him die. After all, I’m the reason he’s in this state.”

“Is that why you chose to trample all over my feelings?”

“No!” Rayna quickly refuted. Couldn’t come up with an explanation, she pleaded, “Curtis, I want him to continue living. I want to let him try Ixora.”

“Who told you the location of Jeremy’s laboratory? Did Jeremy or Wyatt tell you about it?” Curtis asked. “I don’t think you’ve asked them. Otherwise, they would’ve told me. Did Jessica tell you about it?”

Rayna said nothing in response.

After a brief moment of silence, Curtis laughed sinisterly, as if he was trying his best to keep himself composed. “Rayna, I’ll get Mr. Tylinski to fetch you from Frosa. If you were to return, I’ll forget about you breaking up with me.”

“Please let Mr. York give Ixora to Jefferson.”

“Don’t negotiate with me, Rayna!” Curtis sounded grim. “I know he’s innocent, but what about me? What have I done wrong? I’m already being very merciful for not killing him but I’m not God!”

Rayna listened quietly, and her eyes were brimming with tears. I know neither Curtis nor Jefferson is wrong, and Curtis has been more than generous. However, I can’t let Jefferson live for only three months!

Jefferson, who had been standing next to Rayna in silence, suddenly bent forward and coughed violently.

Rayna was heartbroken when she saw the blood on Jefferson’s palm. Jefferson needs to take Ixora as soon as possible. Otherwise, he’s going to die.

Rayna endured the reluctance she was feeling and stammered, “I-I’m sorry, but he has nothing left… I can’t let him die after three months. I’m truly sorry…”

With that, she ended the call.

Over in Faymon Group in Norwal City, Curtis glanced at his phone in a daze. The words she said were still ringing in his ears. Gradually, the look in his eyes turned frigid, and his fingers started trembling. Did she say Jefferson has nothing? What about me? What do I have?

A long while later, Curtis placed the phone on his desk and signed Rayna’s resignation document with a solemn expression on his face.

Once he was done with the document, he called for Gabriel through the internal landline. I’m not a child and neither is Rayna. Since she wants to find a way out for Jefferson, I’ll let her be. I’m pissed off, but there’s no point in smashing things up. I have to be rational. She wants a breakup, no? Let’s tie up all the loose ends!

By the time Gabriel entered the office fearfully, the frigid look in Curtis’ eyes had disappeared. In fact, he looked like his usual self.

Curtis threw the document toward Gabriel and ordered flatly, “Hand Ms. Garland’s resignation to the HR department. After that, assess all the employees in the Department of Regulators before assigning them to the departments as you deem fit.”

“Mr. Faymon, are you shutting the Department of Regulators down?” Gabriel was stumped. When Ms. Garland resigned the last time around, Mr. Faymon didn’t shut down the entire department. He kept it running until Ms. Garland came back and became the manager. This time around, he wants to shut the department down. Does that mean Mr. Faymon and Ms. Garland have broken up for good? Is he not letting Ms. Garland come back ever again?