Ch. 41..50

Chapter 41 The Wilful Princess

“Ms. Winton, it’s not surprising that you have such a habit, but I don’t.” Rayna gave her the side-eye. “The keycard was given to me by Mr. Tylinski. Mr. Faymon is aware and has given his permission.”

Kristie clenched her teeth in anger.

D*mn it, why didn’t Mr. Tylinski give me one?

Rayna then added in surprise, “Ms. Winton, is that why you’re surfing on your phone? Because you don’t have the key?”

“Of course I do. I have just forgotten to bring it and don’t feel like going back for it.” Kristie thrust her chin forward. “I came here specifically to monitor you so that you won’t be able to scheme against Curt.”

Rayna took a deep breath. “Ms. Winton, it isn’t…”

Once the door opened, Kristie slipped into the house and warned Rayna, “Don’t think just because you have slept with Curt once that you can do as you please. I have my eyes on you.”

Rayna was speechless.

Fine. Even if I explain, this stubborn princess will probably refuse to listen.

As Rayna brought the ingredients into the kitchen, Kristie followed closely behind. Annoyed by the latter, Rayna dropped a live fish at her feet on purpose.

“Ah!” Kristie screamed in terror as the fish flopped around her leg. “Rayna, you must have done it on purpose! Take it away from me!”

“I’m sorry. My hands just slipped.” After apologizing, Rayna tried to catch the fish but failed repeatedly.

As the fish jumped three feet high, it brushed across Kristie’s leg.

No sooner had her face lost all color than Kristie dashed out of the kitchen, closing the door behind her and leaving only a small gap.

Rayna was finally at ease.

“Rayna, y-you…” Glaring at Rayna, Kristie—unable to swear due to her upbringing—reprimanded her instead, “Curt doesn’t eat fish. Why did you buy fish?”

“He doesn’t eat fish, but I do,” Rayna replied in an innocent tone. “Taking care of him doesn’t mean that I don’t have to eat, right? Besides, he never stopped me from buying fish.”

She then approached Kristie with the fish in her hand. “Ms. Winton, do you eat fish? This one is particularly delicious!”

Amidst Kristie’s scream, the door slammed shut instantly.

“Curt, I’m being bullied!” Beyond the door, Rayna could hear Kristie running upstairs in tears. Hence, she figured the latter must have gone to Curtis to complain.

By the time Rayna prepared the ingredients and stored them in the freezer, Curtis had already come down.

He was dressed in a light-gray-hand-tailored suit as if he was going out for a meeting. Kristie, holding his arm, was pouting pitifully.

“Good morning, Mr. Faymon,” Rayna greeted. The sight of him in a suit reminded her of his wounds. Hence, she remarked, “The doctor advised that you should be wearing looser clothes over the next few

days to avoid any pressure on your wounds.”

Furthermore, she had accidentally grabbed his wounds the night before and wasn’t sure if they had worsened.

“Last night, I got my personal doctor to deal with it, so it’s fine.” Just as Curtis spoke, he put on the square cufflinks that Kristie had just handed over. “I’m going out for a meeting. You should come with me.”

Rayna nodded. “All right.”

“Curt, you have to teach her a lesson!” Kristie shook his arm. “She just used a living fish to scare me.”

“Usually, don’t you always stay far away from living seafood?” Curtis gave her the side-eye. “If you hadn’t gone too close, how would you have been frightened?”

Kristie stomped her feet. “Curt, why do you always take her side?”

“She has done nothing wrong. It’s you who’s being wilful,” Curtis replied coldly. “Also, I recall that you are due to start filming for your new movie, so why aren’t you with the film crew now?”

“Mr. Zane has taken leave from the film crew due to some personal issues. Hence, I’m on a break too.”

“In that case, you should be studying your script at home. What is your manager doing?”

Cognizant that Curtis was accusing her manager of being incompetent, Kristie responded coyly, “Come on, I’m already familiar with my lines. Besides, no one can stop me from coming to see you.”

The words caused Rayna to feel a tingling sensation in her ear.

She couldn’t deny that Kristie was adept at playing coy. Considering her good looks and gentle voice, her attempt at doing so sounded natural, although it might feel cringy to some.

On their way out, Kristie even slowed down on purpose to walk next to Rayna.

“Rayna, you should give up.” Brimming with haughtiness, Kristie broke into a smug smile. “I will follow you everywhere so that you won’t have the opportunity to be alone with Curt.”

Rayna’s lips twitched.

In that case, I should really thank you, Ms. Winton.

Meanwhile, Gabriel was already waiting outside the mansion. When he saw Curtis emerge with two women behind him, he simply adjusted his spectacles before opening the car door.

“Good morning, Mr. Faymon.”

Kristie slipped into the backseat without hesitation and held onto Curtis’ arm upon his entry. “Curt, where’s your meeting? I want to go with you.”

“I’ll get Mr. Tylinski to send you home, and I’ll go and see you in the evening,” Curtis remarked.

“I don’t want to go home!” Kristie snorted in protest. “I want to be by your side. What if you need my help? Come on, take me along with you!”

“Stop making a fuss.”

“I don’t care. I insist on going!” While speaking, Kristie even gave Rayna, who was sitting in front, the side-eye. “This dumb woman can’t even make a cup of coffee. What else is she good for?”

“Ms. Winton, if you want to go, just be honest about it. There’s no need for such personal attacks, is there?” Rayna turned toward Kristie. “Besides, I’ve never used such coffee equipment before. Hence, it’s understandable for me to make a mistake.”

Even though she had made coffee for Curtis the night before, she could tell from the frown on his face that it wasn’t good. Hence, after checking on the internet, she realized she had used the wrong equipment.

Although she didn’t know how Kristie came to know about it, using the incident to attack her was just too much.

“Why didn’t you check the manual since you’ve never used it before? Stop making excuses and just admit your mistake!” Kristie snapped. “Anyway, something like this won’t happen when I’m the one making the coffee, for the coffee I make tastes excellent.”

Rayna was bereft of words.

“Enough.” Curtis was annoyed listening to the two women arguing inside the car first thing in the morning. “You can come along but don’t cause any trouble.”

As Kristie broke into a delightful smile, she tightened her grip on Curtis’ arm. “Mmm-hmm, I’ll behave.”

Soon, their car arrived at a golf course.

It was the biggest and most exclusive golf course in Norwal City. With membership fees at one million per year, only the social elites were able to afford it. Naturally, Faymon Group had a stake in it too.

While Rayna rode in a buggy together with Curtis and Kristie toward the golf course, she cupped her chin while scanning the surroundings. From Kristie’s perspective, Rayna looked just like a country bumpkin who had never been to the city before.

“I’m sure you have never played golf, haven’t you?” Kristie asked haughtily as she crossed her legs and shook them. “If you beg me, I’ll teach you how to play later.”

“That’s not going to happen.” Rayna smiled faintly.

Even though she didn’t like the sport, she did play when she went out with Jefferson in the past. Although she wasn’t particularly good and nowhere as good as professionals, she was capable enough for amateurs.

In fact, she had even been to the most luxurious golf course in Lightspring before. Therefore, the one in Norwal City didn’t particularly impress her. She was simply curious, as she hadn’t been to a golf course in a long time.

In response, Kristie let out a heavy snort.

After the waitress ushered them to a private room within the restaurant, Rayna was greeted by the presence of three blond men. Even Jonathan, her supervisor, was there.

 

Chapter 42 Intolerable

Despite her surprise, she knew it wasn’t the time to show it. Just when she planned to take a seat after Curtis had greeted the men, a figure suddenly beat her to it.

“Ms. Garland, your place is over there.”

Kristie had placed her bag on the seat on Curtis’ left before seating herself on his right. After that, she —not wanting Rayna to be anywhere close to Curtis—directed the other woman to sit beside Jonathan.

Rayna raised her brow in seething anger as she took the seat next to Jonathan.

I’ll just bear with it.

After Rayna came over, the smiling Jonathan remarked, “Ms. Kristie is just naughty. I hope you don’t mind, Rayna. Anyway, it’s good that you’re sitting with me. Both of us can talk.”

Rayna whispered, “I wouldn’t dare offend the apple of Mr. Faymon’s eye.”

“Haha, I’m surprised you realize how much Mr. Faymon spoils her.”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Rayna broke into a helpless smile. “Mr. Faymon even tolerates her taking up the seat with her bag.”

Furthermore, she had never seen Curtis hit Kristie before. At most, he would just reprimand her.

Jonathan nodded. “That’s right. Ms. Kristie was personally groomed by Mr. Faymon. Despite her mischievous demeanor, she’s extremely capable. Otherwise, Mr. Faymon wouldn’t have allowed her to stay by his side all the time.”

How is she capable? In acting?

Soon, the answer would be evident to Rayna.

As the blond men spoke Anglandurn, there was nothing for Rayna and Jonathan to do. Thus, both of them sat quietly there, watching Curtis negotiate with them.

Meanwhile, Kristie had lost her earlier playfulness as she sat obediently beside Curtis. All it took was a look from him for her to take over the negotiations with their potential partners.

Not only did she know Anglandurn, but she could also speak it with a Lightspring accent. Speaking in a gentle voice and carrying herself with a confident poise, she would also pepper her conversation with humor, much to the delight of their guests.

After watching how Kristie carried herself, Rayna finally understood.

Despite her willfulness, Kristie had a talent for business. Coupled with her pretty face and alluring voice, she did earn her right to be pampered.

As the negotiations were about the export and transportation of commercial products and both sides would benefit from the collaboration, the deal was sealed in half an hour. Thus, the remaining time was spent eating and chatting.

Jonathan whispered, “Rayna, let’s go out for a chat.”

“All right.”

Cognizant that her supervisor had something private to discuss, she followed him out to the golf course.

As there weren’t many golfers around, one of the staff handed Jonathan a golf club. After casually hitting a few balls, Jonathan came back down with his forehead drenched in sweat.

Rayna, handing him a towel, commented with a smile, “Mr. Lawson, you’re really good to have your ball land on the green.”

“Age is catching up with me. Even golf tires me out easily.” Wiping his sweat with the towel, Jonathan chuckled and asked, “I’m going over to the Norham branch soon. Are you aware of that?”

“I am, but I thought you don’t like going overseas?”

Previously, he had already rejected the same transfer once due to the fact that his daughter was still young. Back then, he was concerned that coming back once every few months wasn’t enough time to bond with his daughter.

“Since it’s a direct order from Mr. Faymon, do I have a choice?” Jonathan sighed. “Furthermore, they’re short-handed over there. Other than hiring a few foreigners for senior management positions, the rest will be filled with internal staff.”

Rayna nodded in acknowledgment.

This practice wasn’t just limited to Faymon Group. Every global financial and technological firm would place its own people within senior management despite hiring a few foreigners as lip service.

“I’m sure you’re also aware that once I leave, the translation department will need a new supervisor.” Jonathan tapped his golf club on the floor. “Mr. Saunders plans to plant one of his own men in that position.”

After a brief silence, Rayna asked, “Mr. Lawson, what do you think about it?”

“Of course I’m against it, as his men will only stir trouble within the department. Internally, only you and Edith stand out, but she’s not under consideration.”

“Because she belongs to Mr. Grant’s faction.” The sharp Rayna quickly understood the situation. “If I— someone who is capable yet not politically aligned with anyone—takes that role, I won’t do any harm to the company’s interest.”

Truth be told, Rayna suspected something was amiss when Curtis returned from overseas and frequently visited the office. In fact, the latter had even transferred the reluctant Jonathan to the Norham branch.

Jonathan hummed in acknowledgment. “Rayna, I’m sure you’re aware that Mr. Faymon was adopted by Old Mr. Faymon. Considering that he isn’t a Faymon by blood, he will face a difficult time gaining the support of the Faymon family regardless of how capable he is.”

After a brief hesitation, he patted Rayna on her shoulder. “Even if you’re unwilling, I insist on having you take over my position. Other than you, I don’t trust anyone else.”

Rayna pursed her lips. “Mr. Lawson, I’m sure you know that I harbor no ambition, hence positions are of no interest to me. All I want is to make a simple living and avoid being embroiled in any conflicts.”

Once I get involved in the power struggles of prominent families, there’s no way I can escape unscathed.

She never planned to get herself entangled with Curtis until she fell into his trap and was forced to promise him that she would negotiate the partnership on his behalf. As for the fate of the Faymon family, she had no interest in it at all.

“I know. If it wasn’t because of that, I wouldn’t have spent my time grooming you.” After falling into a brief silence, Jonathan added, “Rayna, just think of it as protecting the department you’re working in. Anyway, I’ll talk to Mr. Faymon about letting you take over my role. You can assume it until I find someone else after which you’ll be free again. How about that?”

Rayna didn’t answer immediately.

If Mr. Lawson can’t find anyone for a year, wouldn’t I be stuck in the position the entire time? Plenty can happen in a month, let alone a year.

After much consideration, Rayna finally agreed, “Fine, but I’m not doing this for Faymon Group’s sake. After working here for so long, you have taught me a lot. You’re like my mentor. Hence, this is my way of returning the favor.”

A smile of relief descended upon Jonathan’s face. “In that case, my mind has been put at ease.”

“Didn’t you say that you don’t know how to play golf? Why did you come over to the course?” In the midst of their conversation, Kristie approached them and began to mock Rayna.

Ignoring her, Rayna turned her head away, for she knew that engaging in a conversation with someone like Kristie would be playing into her hands.

Just as expected, Kristie simply snorted at the cold shoulder Rayna gave her before ordering the staff to bring her golf bag over. Meanwhile, Curtis and his business partners found a place to sit and have coffee.

Kristie, looking adorable in her light-pink sports attire, tied her hair up before playing golf. When she did, she was so focused on the game that she looked like an entirely different person.

With a swing of her golf club, she whacked the golf ball and landed it on the green. When the business partners clapped and cheered, Curtis curled his lips into a rare smile.

Kristie lifted her chin at Rayna. “The joys of playing golf is something you’ll never understand.”

“Really? In that case, I would like to experience it.” Rayna was finally infuriated after being repeatedly provoked. “Mr. Lawson, can I borrow your clubs?”

Jonathan replied with a smile, “My ordinary clubs pale in comparison to those owned by Ms. Kristie. I don’t think you can hit far with them.”

“It’s fine.”

As it had been two to three years since she last held a golf club, Rayna felt a little rusty. While she was taking some time to find the proper grip, Kristie ridiculed her, “There’s no need to force yourself if you don’t know how to play.”

Jonathan proceeded to guide Rayna a little.

Finally, Rayna firmed her grip on the club. Taking a deep breath, she swung the club with all her might, hitting the golf ball off its tee and sending it to the far end of the green.

 

Chapter 43 The Ball Strikes The Back Of The Knee

After looking out to the horizon, the smirking Kristie commented, “That’s just the standard of a beginner.”

Wanting to humiliate Rayna, Kristie hit another ball. This time, it flew even further than the first. With sweat beading off her forehead, she was evidently drained by it.

In truth, playing golf depended more on technique than brute strength. The more relaxed one’s arms were, the further one could hit the ball.

Ignoring Kristie’s snide remarks, Rayna adjusted her posture and hit another ball.

This time, the ball flew so far that it seemed to disappear into the horizon.

When Kristie was unable to spot where the ball landed, she sneered, “Hey, did it fall right in front?”

No sooner had she commented than a whistle was heard from afar.

“I-It’s a hole-in-one?” Kristie widened her eyes in disbelief. “It’s rare for me to hit that even after playing for two years. How can a newbie like you achieve it?”

Rayna smiled slightly. “I never said that I didn’t know how to play. That was just your own assumption.”

Kristie stomped her feet in response.

The sound of the whistle indicated that someone had hit a hole-in-one. Naturally, Curtis and his business partners all heard it.

Smiling, one of them commented, “I didn’t expect this lady to be good at golf. In addition, she looks pretty too. Mr. Faymon, which department does she work in? Is she married?”

The man stared intently at Rayna, clearly interested in her.

Curtis, too, was surprised that the graceful Rayna actually knew how to play golf. In response to the inquiry, Curtis curled his lips and replied, “She just got divorced, and her family is in shambles.”

“How can someone not want such a beautiful woman?” Briefly shocked, the man was now further intrigued. “Her name’s Garland, isn’t she? I’m going to chat her up.”

Just as he spoke, he called out to Rayna, “Ms. Garland, are you free to chat?”

Curtis was somewhat upset.

He assumed the man would back off after he made himself clear, but the latter’s interest only deepened. Is he trying to hit on my woman and take her home?

However, Rayna had already come over before Curtis could react.

Given the man’s intense interest in Rayna, his friends simply smiled knowingly. As for Rayna, she had no choice but to chat with him, as it would be rude for her to refuse.

“Ms. Garland, which is the country you would like to visit the most?”

“Danontand.”

“That’s the country of fairytales. I like it very much too. In fact, my maternal grandmother is from Danontand.”

Rayna didn’t know what to say.

“Ms. Garland, did you get your eyes from your mother? They’re beautiful. Your mother must have been a gorgeous woman.”

Rayna eked out a smile. “Yes, I take after my mother.”

“Ms. Garland, when you have the time, let’s travel to Danontand together.” The man pressed on. “When I was little, I stayed in Danontand before. Hence, I know the place very well and can be your guide.”

Rayna was speechless.

Is this guy trying to hit on me?

Without any warning, Curtis spilled his coffee on Rayna, causing her to spring to her feet. Even when doing so, he took care to only wet the bottom of her outfit.

“I’m sorry. My hands slipped,” Curtis apologized. “You should head to the restroom to clean up.”

“In that case, I must thank you, Mr. Faymon.” Rayna smiled through her gritted teeth before leaving for the restroom. Even though she was peeved by Curtis’ method, it did release her from her conversation.

Meanwhile, Kristie was irked by the sight of what happened.

Why is this slut seducing everyone she sees? How did she end up having coffee spilled on her? And she even smiled at Curt after he handed her a tissue?

By the time Rayna came back after cleaning up, Kristie was incensed. Just as she stomped her feet, she accidentally kicked a golf ball which triggered an idea in her head. The next second, she swung her club at the ball.

Golf balls were inherently weighted, and the one hit by Kristie struck Rayna behind the knee.

“Argh!” she exclaimed in pain. As she shuddered, she lost her balance and collapsed to the ground.

Curtis—with a drastic change in expression—sprang to his feet to support her.

“What happened?”

His question was redundant, as the look on Rayna’s face and the rolling golf ball by the side said it all.

“Kristie Winton!” Curtis looked up at the other woman, his face terrifyingly grim. He was evidently furious since he had never yelled her full name before.

“I… I didn’t see where I was hitting.” Tucking her head between her shoulders, Kristie protested innocently, “I didn’t do it on purpose. Besides, it doesn’t look like it hurts much.”

“What did you say? Do you want me to give you a taste of your own medicine?” Rayna snapped. If it wasn’t because she couldn’t stand, she would’ve given Kristie a slap.

After all, she had had enough of the latter’s antics.

“Can you stand up?” Curtis tried helping Rayna up.

However, due to the heavy impact from the ball, Rayna’s entire body would hurt terribly the moment she moved a muscle, let alone stand. Consequently, her eyes began to redden.

“Mr. Faymon, you should send her to the hospital. I’m worried that there might be lingering problems if we don’t hurry,” Jonathan anxiously suggested. “I’ll take care of our guests here.”

Cognizant that time was of the essence, Curtis nodded. He then wrapped one hand behind her back and the other underneath her legs before carrying her in his arms. Just as he passed by Kristie, he stopped abruptly.

The anxious Kristie twiddled her fingers. “Curt, I’m sorry.”

“What did I tell you, hmm?” His tone was grave. “You just refuse to listen! Go back and write ‘I’m sorry’ a hundred times! Also, you’re grounded for the next three days. Without my permission, you’re not

allowed to leave the condominium at all!”

“Curt!” Tears were welling up in Kristie’s eyes. “I’ve already admitted my mistake, so please don’t ground me.”

“Go back right now!”

Kristie had never been scolded like that by Curtis before. Frightened by his sullen expression, she burst into tears and sobbed as she ran out of the golf course.

Meanwhile, a minivan was parked in the open-air parking lot with a tall young man leaning against it. Wearing a baseball cap and a short sleeve shirt that revealed his tan skin, he seemed to be resting with his eyes closed.

At the sound of the footsteps, James opened his eyes abruptly.

When he saw that the woman running toward him matched the one in the picture, he opened the back door at once. “Ms. Winton.”

“Shut up!” Kristie bellowed before getting into the vehicle and slamming the door shut herself. If James had reacted any slower, his fingers would have been crushed.

In response, he swore at her under his breath.

He had assumed that standing in for his sick friend as a bodyguard for twenty thousand a month was an extremely good deal. Unexpectedly, it turned out that the person he was supposed to protect was a wilful girl.

“What are you spacing out for? Are you a fool? Drive!” The furious Kristie kicked the door from the inside.

James was speechless.

At the same time, Rayna was trembling in excruciating pain. Gritting her teeth, she couldn’t hold back her tears as they streamed endlessly down, dampening Curtis’ shirt.

Curtis comforted her, “Bear with it a little longer. We’re almost at the hospital.”

Upon arriving at the open-air parking lot, Curtis put Rayna in the back seat of the car. Just as she looked up, she coincidentally caught a glimpse of a minivan driving out of an alley in front of them and the young man who was in the driver’s seat.

Isn’t that James?

As the sight of the familiar face caused Rayna to momentarily forget the pain she felt, she stretched her neck to take a closer look but the vehicle was already gone.

“What is it?” Curtis asked when he noticed her reaction.

Rayna was in too much pain to speak, so she could only manage to shake her head, thinking that she was mistaken. After all, James was studying in a boarding school and should be in class instead of outside.

Chapter 44

Chapter 44 Almost Crippled

Upon their arrival at the hospital, the part where Rayna was hit in the leg was already swollen badly. Even the doctor who came over to examine her was shocked.

“What happened?”

“She was hit by a golf ball.” Curtis loosened his tie. Despite having his shirt wrinkled from Rayna’s grip, he looked just as distinguished as ever. With a grim expression, he remarked, “Please take a look at her.”

While examining the wound, the doctor asked Rayna about it before applying a cold spray to it. No sooner had the cold mist come in contact with the wound than Rayna shivered in reflex.

“Luckily, the force wasn’t that great. Otherwise, your leg would have been crippled,” the doctor commented as he typed out the prescription on his computer. “You should stay here for two days for observation. Once you’re better, we can take another X-ray of it.”

Curtis’ brows furrowed at the doctor’s words. “All right. Thank you.”

Once they were done, Curtis attempted to carry Rayna out of the consultation room. However, the awkward Rayna pushed his hand away by reflex. “Mr. Faymon, it’s fine. I can walk by myself.”

It’s embarrassing for him to carry me around all the time.

Curtis looked at her leg with a frown. “Are you sure?”

“I should be able to.” Rayna curled up her injured leg and tried hopping on her good leg. However, she lost her balance but was quickly caught by Curtis.

As Curtis bent over to pick her up, the momentary sense of falling caused her to hug his neck reflexively. Rayna, noticing the spot on his shirt that was still wet from her tears, couldn’t help but blush.

She had tried hard to resist crying earlier but was just overwhelmed by the pain.

With both of them in close proximity despite her efforts to avoid him, the sound of his steady heartbeat echoed in her ear, while the alluring and mature scent of his cologne filled her nostrils.

In the midst of her fantasies, she had already been carried into the ward and placed on the bed.

“What’s wrong?” At the sight of her reddened face, Curtis assumed that she wasn’t feeling well. “Shall I get the doctor?”

“I’m fine. I’m just a little thirsty.” She had barely spoken when her cheeks blushed harder at her intensifying embarrassment. Despite throwing her a glance, Curtis didn’t say a word as he handed her a cup of water.

Holding the cup up to drink, Rayna pretended to be calm.

“Ms. Garland, I’m sorry that I failed to keep an eye on Kristie and allowed you to be badly injured,” Curtis apologized while pinching his forehead. “Kristie can be mischievous at times.”

“I know. I’m not holding it against her,” Rayna replied. Initially, she did plan on making a fuss, but a better idea came to mind. “Remember how you got hurt on my account during the cocktail reception? We’re even now.”

Curtis nodded. “All right. Anyway, you should rest in the hospital for the next few days. I’ll let Mr. Lawson know about it.”

“Thank you, Mr. Faymon.”

“Mr. Faymon, Ms. Garland.” A knock on the door was followed by Gabriel entering with a fruit basket. Behind him was a middle-aged caregiver.

Gabriel explained, “Ms. Garland, I’ve hired a caregiver for you. She lives nearby and knows how to cook. If you’re sick of the hospital food, you can get her to prepare your meals.”

“Thank you.” I’ve just gotten my wounds treated and Mr. Tylinski has already found me a caregiver. Given how efficient he is, it’s no surprise that he’s Curtis’ assistant.

“Ms. Garland, you should get some rest.” Curtis left with Gabriel after seeing there was nothing else left for him to do.

The moment he stepped out of the hospital, Curtis’ expression drastically darkened.

“Who sent her home?”

“The person I found for Ms. Kristie previously. He’s a retired member of the special forces, codename— Gray Wolf,” Gabriel replied. “He personally sent Ms. Kristie back to the condominium and is keeping an eye on her.”

“She has gone too far this time,” Curtis commented grimly. “Fortunately, she didn’t exert too much force and Rayna’s leg is fine. Otherwise, I would have sent her to the island and locked her there for two months!”

Despite my warnings to her not to hurt Rayna, she just refused to listen.

Adjusting his spectacles, Gabriel gave his opinion. “Ms. Kristie would’ve done the same if it was any other woman because she’s worried that someone would steal you away.”

“Inexplicable jealousy.” Curtis pinched his forehead in exasperation. Despite what happened, he couldn’t hit her due to the promise he made. “Is she writing her lines of repentance?”

“She is. Gray Wolf says that she’s doing it in tears.” Gabriel couldn’t help but laugh when the image of it popped into his mind. “Her tears had wet her notebook and smeared her writing. Thus, she had to start again on an entirely new one.”

Curtis instructed coldly, “Get Gray Wolf to keep a close eye on her and make sure she stares at the wall in repentance for three days. If she dares to leave the condominium, her punishment will be increased by a day.”

“I’ll let him know shortly.” After acknowledging the orders, Gabriel asked, “When we go overseas, do you want Gray Wolf to tag along? He studied in the same school as Mr. Xavier, and even earned first place in the international sniper competition.”

He’s a sniper?

Upon deliberating on the matter, Curtis added, “Put him on a separate private jet behind us, and deploy him if anything happens. Otherwise, he’s not needed.”

Even though his men were already in place over there, having more of them watching from the shadows was considered additional insurance.

Every day, the caregiver would help Rayna apply the cold spray on her wound and feed her the medication. Noticing that the swelling had gradually gone down, Rayna tried to get out of bed and walk.

Even though she could finally stand on her feet, walking was still a painful endeavor.

Consequently, the doctor advised her to stay in the hospital longer. Since she had hurt herself at work and would be compensated for her injuries, Rayna was in no hurry to leave.

Roxanne called and said through the phone, “Rayna, I’ll be off in two days. Let’s have dinner then.”

“You still have the cheek to call me?” Due to what happened at the cocktail reception, Rayna bellowed, “I don’t even want to see you now, let alone have dinner with you!”

“Come on, Rayna, it’s not like I did it on purpose,” Roxanne mumbled before bursting into a giggle. “I signed another contract for a drama and have transferred my pay to you. Remember to check your account.”

“How much did you get?”

“Six hundred thousand, and I’ll get the remaining three hundred thousand once filming is done. I’m only keeping a hundred thousand for myself.”

“That’s more like it.” The money helped to ease Rayna’s anger. “Roxanne, let me warn you, you had better behave. If I find out that you’re up to something, I’ll definitely skin you alive!”

“I’m busy with filming now and have no time for any funny business. Anyway, I got to go now.” Before ending the call, Roxanne grumbled, “You criticize me all the time but never James.”

Rayna scoffed, “That’s because he’s so much more well-behaved.”

“He just pretends to be that way in front of you. You definitely haven’t seen him when he’s up to no good.”

“Are you asking for trouble?”

Roxanne ended the call without any hesitation.

Soon, Rayna received a notification on her phone that informed her she had received five hundred thousand in her account.

Given that Roxanne was a spendthrift and never saved, Rayna would keep the former’s money and leave her a little for her expenses.

Once we save a little more, I’ll start hunting for a house. After all, the property market is the only thing worth investing in nowadays.

Thinking back to the side profile she had caught a glimpse of at the golf course, Rayna still felt that it was James. Perhaps he sneaked out to have some fun and happened to be caught by me.

Holding that thought, she gave James a call.

 

Chapter 45 Take My Card

Meanwhile, James was keeping watch of Kristie at a condominium in Cerulean Bay and cooking. When he heard Rayna calling him on the phone, he turned off the stove immediately and rushed into the bathroom.

Having ensured no one was around, he picked up his phone. “What is it, Rayna?”

“Must I have a good reason to call?” Rayna snapped. “Is everything okay at school?”

“Everything’s pretty okay.”

“Are you sure? Did you jump over your school wall just to skip class?”

“Rayna, do you think I’m someone who will do that?” James asked, rubbing his nose.

I finished my homework early and went out through the gate above board, but still, I can’t let Rayna know I’m part-timing. She’ll skin me alive.

“Well, I must be wrong, then,” Rayna mumbled on the other end of the phone. “By the way, didn’t you say you don’t have enough money? Why didn’t you accept the money I wired over to you?”

“Ah, I wanted to buy some equipment, but I didn’t have enough, so I asked Mom instead,” James answered with a slight cough, his voice betraying a hint of hypocrisy. “But I didn’t buy it in the end because my friend gave me his.”

“But sharing it with your friend is not the best solution.” Rayna thought James needed some clothes or shoes. “Come home if you’re free this weekend. I’ll bring you shopping.”

“I’m not sure about that. I’ll ask later in the afternoon.” The truth was that James could always go home since he was just right outside, but since Rayna was under the impression that he had been at school for a few months, it would be weird for James to agree to go home right away.

“Let me know when you find out. I’ll pick you up.”

Bang!

Someone pounded the bathroom door loudly before James could even reply to Rayna. “What’s taking you so long? Get out already!” Kristie shouted from the outside.

On the other side, Rayna vaguely heard a woman’s voice and asked softly, “Is that your girlfriend?”

“No. She’s just a classmate. I’ll hang up first, Rayna. Bye!” Afraid that Kristie might shout again and give his game away, James quickly hung up after saying goodbye.

He pulled open the door and glared down at Kristie with his face gloomed. “Ms. Winton, do you have a problem with me using the toilet?”

“I do!” Kristie snarled, glaring back at him with her eyes wide. “This restroom is for my private use. You can only use the one in the guest room. Is that clear?”

James was stumped for words.

He had always thought that Roxanne was the fussiest person on earth until he met Kristie, but he had no choice but to give in because he was cash-strapped.

“Yes, Ms. Winton. Understood.”

This is the best offer ever. I get twenty thousand per month, five hundred for food, and another five hundred for allowance daily. All I need to do is drive her around and carry some shopping bags for her.

Having gotten a lecture from Kristie, James pulled a long face and went back to the kitchen to make lunch.

“Why are you cooking again?” Kristie asked, going over to the kitchen when she smelled the aroma. She was horrified by the dishes on the table.

“I’m poor. I can’t afford to eat out.”

Kristie pouted. “I can’t let my bodyguard live so cheaply.” With that said, she walked into her room with her slippers on and returned again after a minute with a card.

“Take this. The password is 123456. You can buy anything with it.”

“I don’t need it.” James turned her down coldly. “Ms. Winton, I’m here as your bodyguard. You’re not the person who employs me, so I can’t take anything from you.”

“What about you teach someone a lesson for me? I’ll give everything in this card to you,” Kristie asked, going closer and tugging his sleeve with a pitiful look on her face. “Something bad happened recently. I ran into an annoying woman and ended up being asked to write a hundred apology letters because of her.”

To Kristie, her humiliation after returning from the golf course that night was scarring. She bawled her eyes out as she penned one hundred apology letters till three or four in the morning that day.

Whenever she recalled that incident, she would feel an urge to chop Rayna into pieces.

“Ms. Winton, I’m not a gangster. I’ll never do something that offends the law,” James replied, pushing her hand away and filling his plate with spaghetti.

Kristie stared at him, baffled, as James went over and sat down in the kitchenette.

What’s wrong with him? Curtis and Wyatt would always give in whenever I talked to them like this. They would give me whatever I wanted. Why does this not work on this guy?

Kristie took up the kitchen knife and looked at her own reflection on the smooth surface.

My makeup is on point, and so is my hair. Everything’s so perfect there’s nothing to nitpick on.

“Don’t you find me attractive?” Kristie inquired as she walked over to James with the knife. Unlike other bodyguards she had before, James had not spared her an extra glance over the past days when they were together.

Those bodyguards would secretly eye her and use her credit card, and one of them even installed a pinhole camera just to spy on her like she was a piece of meat.

Kristie gazed at James and continued, “Are you gay?”

“Pfft!” Food spewed from James’ mouth the moment he heard that. His color changed, and he almost swore at her, but he quickly reminded himself to behave since he was Kristie’s bodyguard.

“Ms. Winton, I’m straight.”

“Then why doesn’t my charm work on you?” Kristie questioned, inching closer with the knife as if she would break James’ neck. “Am I not pretty? How is it that you don’t find me attractive?”

James was at a loss for words.

“I have a girlfriend, and she doesn’t like me checking out other girls,” James lied and pushed the knife away from his head.

Kristie was surprised. “You might be handsome, but you’re poor. I can’t believe you have a girlfriend.”

James ignored her and continued eating.

“Is she prettier than me? Is she also a bodyguard at your company?”

Her words fell into silence. “Come on! Answer me!”

Kristie kept bugging James with the same question, but the latter completely disregarded her and ate away. Looking at him eating, Kristie sniffed and realized that the food smelled delicious, despite looking oily.

She suddenly felt like having some too, so she went to the kitchen and grabbed some cutlery.

At first, she was reluctant, looking at the greasy gumbo, but when she took a slice of meat in the end and put it in her mouth, her eyes sparkled.

“This tastes heavenly!” Kristie exclaimed, holding her cheeks. “I can’t believe you’re such an amazing cook!”

“As you said, I’m the one who cooked this, and I don’t intend on sharing it with you,” James said, pulling the dish back. “Ms. Winton, your meal will be delivered in three minutes.”

“Hey, are you the boss, or am I the boss?” Kristie shouted, pulling back the plate. “I’ll ask Curt to fire you if you bully me.”

Speaking, she took another piece of meat and mumbled, “Get me some spaghetti.”

“I only cooked my portion!” James retaliated.

“Can’t you make more? It’s not like I don’t have noodles in this house!” Kristie demanded.

The gumbo tastes so good. I must have it with spaghetti!

Kristie eyed James’ spaghetti and suddenly had an excellent idea. She ran over to the kitchen to fetch another plate and scooped away the spaghetti James had not eaten into her own plate.

James’ lips twitched.

I can’t with her.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Thinking it was the delivery guy, James got up and went to get the door.

“Mr. Tylinski!” It turned out that the person at the door was no delivery guy, but Gabriel, who had earlier on sent James to the hospital for a checkup and assigned him as Kristie’s bodyguard.

 

Chapter 46 Hands Off

“I was on my way back from work, so I figured I might as well swing by to send Ms. Kristie lunch,” the assistant said.

Gabriel was unaware that James took up the job on his friend’s behalf since the latter was also from the same school as Gray Wolf, so it went without saying that Gabriel took James as Gray Wolf.

James rubbed his nose and noted, “You should’ve come earlier. She just had my lunch.”

“What?” Gabriel was stunned.

He was bewildered when he saw Kristie eating the greasy food on the table.

The picky eater had never fancied oily food throughout Gabriel’s time with her. Kristie’s meals were all tailor-made for her by particular restaurants, so Gabriel was surprised when he saw her eating regular food.

“Ms. Kristie, I thought you didn’t like food like this? They’re greasy. You’ll put on weight,” Gabriel exclaimed.

“Stop nagging. You’re annoying,” Kristie said, rolling her eyes. My appetite’s good today, so why does he have to make a huge fuss out of it?

The assistant was rendered speechless.

He put the food he had brought on the table and called James aside so he could talk to the bodyguard alone.

“Are you free next month? I might need you to go abroad,” Gabriel inquired.

“I thought you said I only need to take care of her for a week?” James asked with a frown. He had taken up the job only because he needed some extra money. “I don’t have a passport and won’t do anything illegal.”

“We’re flying in a private jet, and everything has been arranged. You don’t need a passport,” Gabriel replied, pushing his glasses and smiling. “It’s not something against the law. Mr. Faymon has a business negotiation and is afraid someone might want to harm him. I’ve arranged for a few men to go along so you won’t be alone. All you need to do is keep watch from the dark to ensure his safety. I can wire you fifty thousand in advance if you agree to take this assignment. That’s half of the total payment.”

One hundred thousand?

James thought for a moment and nodded in the end. “I’m down for it if I just need to keep an eye on him.”

“We have a deal,” Gabriel uttered gladly with a sigh and shook James’ hand.

To Gabriel, anyone from James’ school would never disappoint, and he felt assured that someone like James could follow Curtis along for that trip.

“What are you guys talking about?” Kristie weighed in unhappily with her plate in her hand. “Why are you guys whispering behind my back? Can’t you all just say everything in front of me?”

“We were talking about those dangerous fans of yours and how we need to ramp up security to protect you,” James answered, grabbing her head and turning her away. “Go back and eat.”

“Don’t touch my hair! Get your dirty hands off me!” Kristie shrieked.

“I’ll let you go if you go back to the kitchen.”

“Let me go first!”

Gabriel shook his head, looking at the playful duo, and glanced at James.

His first impression of the young man was that James was reliable. He treated everyone the same, which was why Gabriel was assured that James would not harbor ill intentions toward Kristie.

Not long after that, Rayna received a call from James saying he would be home for the weekend, yet it so happened that that was when Rayna was discharged from the hospital, so she asked him to pick her up at the hospital before they went shopping for clothes and going home.

“Why are you at the hospital, Rayna?” James interrogated the moment he saw his sister at ten that morning. After getting Rayna’s address and ward number, he went to the hospital.

“A spoiled brat drove her golf club into my knee during a business trip, so the doctor asked me to stay at the hospital for a few days. Luckily, it’s no big deal.”

“Like the doctor would ask you to get admitted if you were really okay,” James disagreed with a gloomy face. “I would’ve broken both her legs if I were there!”

“Thank God you’re not there, then. Things would’ve gone haywire if you were with me,” Rayna joked.

She felt James had grown taller after not seeing him for some time. He looked dependable in his crew cut and black casual wear, and Rayna thought she was beginning to see signs of manhood in the youth.

Rayna raised her hand and compared her height to James’. When she realized she was only at his shoulder height, she could not help but utter, “It’s only been months, and you’ve shot up!”

“I’m one hundred and eighty-nine centimeters tall now.”

“Wow!” Rayna was astonished. She took a closer look at him and found out the clothes James was wearing were those she had bought for him last time, but because he had grown taller, his trousers looked shorter.

“There are three women at home, so I’ll have to grow taller to protect all of you,” James commented proudly with his brows arched. “Can you walk, Rayna? I can carry you if you can’t.”

“No, thanks. I’m not crippled,” Rayna said, glaring at him.

James rubbed his nose silently and followed her.

After they checked out of the hospital, Rayna brought James to a shopping mall to buy him some clothes. Rayna also called Linda to ask if she needed her to bring any food home, but Linda said no, so the siblings continued shopping on the sixth floor of the mall, where they found all the brands of male apparel.

Rayna went into every store with James to check out the clothes. Given James’ strapping build and attractive face, along with Rayna’s graceful bearing because of her profession as a translator, many salespeople came up to them the moment they entered.

“Rayna, I might grow taller in the future, so we should just go for something cheaper,” James noted as he looked at the price tags. He felt spending thousands on a piece of clothing was unnecessary.

“We can buy new ones when you grow,” Rayna assured, stuffing some clothes in James’ hands. “I can afford all these. Go try them out.”

“Okay.”

Because James’ body figure was impeccable, everything suited him, making him look like a model, so Rayna bought all the items, and the two left the store with a few bags.

“James, who’s the girl I heard over the phone the other day?” Rayna suddenly asked as she elbowed him. “I thought you said your school separates girls from guys according to classes?”

“She’s really just a schoolmate. She came to borrow something,” James explained.

“Yeah. Like I would believe you. It felt more like she was trying to act cute,” Rayna dissed.

She wasn’t acting cute. She was shouting at me.

Seeing James did not reply, Rayna added, “I’m not against you dating at this age. You just have to make sure you don’t cross the line. She’s her parents’ treasure, too, so you shouldn’t toy with people’s feelings.”

“You’re getting ahead of yourself, Rayna,” James said with curved lips before changing the topic. “What about that guy you talked about when we went out that time? I haven’t heard much about him from you lately.”

Like Roxanne, James was also of the opinion that Rayna was way out of Julian’s league, but to Rayna herself, she was not good enough for that man. Because James did not think they were a good match, he had never addressed Julian as his brother-in-law.

Rayna’s face darkened when James mentioned him. She fell silent for a brief moment before she spoke again. “You must’ve not heard about it since you’ve been at school. We divorced. He cheated on me.”

“W-What? You guys divorced?” James stammered, still unable to reconcile with what he had just heard.

“What’s with that face?” Rayna asked, looking at him from the corners of her eyes. “Roxanne reacted the same way too.”

James put his hand over her shoulder, saying, “It’s nothing. I’m just happy for you. He’s scum, so it makes total sense for you to dump him. I can even get rid of him completely if you want me to.”

“Watch what you’re saying. Don’t spew nonsense! I don’t want you getting involved in anything illegal. Besides, I’ve dealt with him on my own, so you have nothing to worry about,” Rayna warned.

 

Chapter 47 That Is Why You Are Still Single

James smiled widely. “All right. I don’t mind you not getting married, though. I can earn money and feed you.”

“You should finish your studies first. Let’s pick two suits for you just in case you need to attend some event at school,” Rayna suggested. Deep down, she felt comforted that James had grown to be understanding and responsible.

The brother and sister continued chatting until they came to a store called Character.

Located in Yeringham, the century-old suit outlet became one of the world’s top luxury suit brands after it was acquired and rebranded by Faymon Group. Its products were popular among consumers.

“Hey, don’t touch or dirty our clothes if you’re not buying anything.”

“Yeah! Just scram if you’re not serious about buying a suit. You should just go shop downstairs.”

The sales staff were reprimanding someone when Rayna and James entered.

They looked over and saw a plainly-dressed old man standing in front of a row of suits. It seemed like he intended to pick a suit for himself, but the staff had disdain written all over their faces as they insulted him.

Seeing that the old man wanted to touch the clothes again, one of them frowned in dismay and slapped his hand away. “Didn’t I say don’t touch it? Who’s going to buy it after you touch it?”

James pursed his lips in disgust. “What’s with the attitude? He’s just a salesperson here.”

“I bet you feel exasperated,” Rayna agreed, looking at him with a faint smile. “I feel the same way too.”

Speaking, Rayna walked over and took a suit down from the shelf. “The material looks good,” she commented as she turned the piece around, trying to see if it would fit James.

When the salesperson saw the shopping bags they carried, he hurried over enthusiastically. “Of course. This is a good choice. The material is imported from Irushea, and this piece is handmade. Your boyfriend is very handsome. He should try these two as well,” the man complimented generously as he took more items from the shelf to pass to Rayna.

Rayna faked a face as if she was contemplating. “You’re right. I want all these.”

“All of them?” The sales assistant was stupefied, for one of those suits cost tens of thousands. When he heard that Rayna was getting everything, a huge smile broke out on his face, and he brought all those suits to the counter for packing.

“Hold on,” Rayna suddenly called out with a smile. “You see, I’m a little of a clean freak. I don’t like people touching my things. I don’t want any of the suits you just touched.”

“Miss, you…” The man’s face fell.

“What is it?” Rayna asked back. “That’s what you said to the old man. You should be glad he shops at your store, yet you spurned him as if you don’t think he can afford your products.”

With that said, Rayna went over to hold the old man. “Let’s go, sir. There are other better stores around here where people are not rude.”

Despite dressing basically, the old man gave off an elegant air. Throughout the whole encounter, he remained calm and composed, and when Rayna invited him, he darted his sharp gaze at her and nodded. “Sure,” he said.

Then, the three of them left for another shop.

“Were you picking a suit for someone, sir?” Rayna asked.

“Yes. I was looking for a suit for my son. His birthday is coming soon, although I forgot when exactly it is. I wanted to buy him a necktie. Could you pick one for me?”

“Of course. I’m also getting my brother a suit and a tie.”

They went into Armani, and Rayna told the agent James’ size. After James went to try out his suit, she chose a necktie for the old man.

“May I know the color of the suits your son usually wears?” she asked.

“Mostly black. He’s picky. He doesn’t like anything too colorful.”

Rayna swept her gaze across the ties at the display counter and picked two after a while. “What do you think about these?”

“I like your taste,” the man complimented.

“I’ll take these two, then. Could you wrap them up? It’s a gift,” Rayna said to the sales assistant.

“Right away.”

At the same time, James had just tried two sets of suits, and Rayna felt both fitted him well, so she selected two neckties to go with each suit and paid for everything in one go.

When the old man saw this, he went forward to stop her. “I can pay for the neckties.”

“It’s okay. They are not that expensive. You should keep the money for yourself,” Rayna insisted, pushing back his card, for the man reminded her a lot of her grandfather, who had passed away.

The old man thanked her profusely and offered to treat them to a drink.

Rayna and James accepted the offer and ordered two milkshakes at COCO. While paying, the old man ordered one for himself as well. After that, the lot went downstairs together.

“Get home safely, sir. Bye!” Rayna said with a smile as she got into the cab.

“Bye!” The man smiled back.

Not long after Rayna left, a black sedan pulled up beside the road, and Gabriel darted over to the old man. “Old Mr. Faymon! Mr. Faymon asked me to come over to pick you up.”

“You don’t have to rush over if you’re busy,” Alfred said as he pulled open the door and went to the backseat. He took two mouthfuls of the milkshake he had bought. Hm. It’s too sweet, but it tastes nice. I bet that’s why young people like this so much.

When Gabriel got in the car, Alfred instructed, “Get me a passion fruit milkshake from COCO.”

“Passion fruit milkshake?” the assistant blurted. He was in for a shock when he saw that Alfred had a cup of milkshake in his hand. “I thought you only liked coffee. Since when did you start taking milkshakes?”

“Don’t tell me I can’t have it because I’m old. This is the trend now. I bet that’s why you’re still single. You don’t even know how to talk nicely.”

Gabriel facepalmed in his heart.

Come on. You don’t have to say something so personal, Old Mr. Faymon.

Meanwhile, Rayna brought James to buy a pair of shoes when their cab passed by a sneaker store. “I don’t want you wearing other people’s shoes. You might get stinky feet.”

James played along and went into the shop with her.

Phew. Luckily, she has no idea what I meant by “equipment.” She would kill me if she knew.

After a day of shopping, the two siblings returned to see Linda with all the goods they had bought.

Like Rayna, the mother was thrown off guard when she saw James had grown much taller. She talked to him for a bit and prepared food in the kitchen. James offered to help, but Linda refused.

“Just let her be,” Rayna chimed in, biting an apple. “She only gets to cook more dishes when we’re around. She usually just cooks for herself.”

James suddenly felt miserable. “I’ll try to come home more often.”

“You just need to focus on your studies,” Rayna reminded. She did not want her brother to get distracted. “Roxanne and I will come home more often, so you don’t have to worry.”

“All right,” James replied shortly. He suddenly remembered something and dug his hand into his pocket before taking out a ring. “Take this, Rayna. I made this on my own. It has a tracking system in it.”

The black and thin ring looked ordinary without any embellishment.

“Tap once to activate it, and tap twice to shut it down,” James explained, doing a demonstration. The ring turned dark red with a single touch. “Tap it once when you’re in danger. I’ll go to your rescue when I get a notification.”

 

Chapter 48 I Will Break Your Neck

“Interesting! Did you make this? Was it difficult making something like this?” Rayna was intrigued by the ring. She tapped it twice, and the red light dimmed.

“It’s not too difficult. It’s harder getting the materials,” the brother replied. James managed to get the materials from his instructor because he had put extra effort into his assignment. The material would cost a tonne if he were to sell it off in the market.

James had made two similar rings. One of them had a more appealing design, and James originally wanted to give it to Rayna and the plain one to Roxanne, but Kristie saw the prettier one and took it.

When Kristie saw that ring, she put it on immediately and refused to take it off. She even threw James her credit card, saying, “It’s just a ring. Just charge however much you want for it. I’m not giving it back to you.”

Little did she know, money was not the main issue to James, but regardless, James had no intention of arguing with her, for he dreaded her high-pitched screech most of all.

So, he had no choice but to sacrifice Roxanne. He figured he could just take the ring back from Kristie when he quit.

“Does Roxanne have one?” Rayna suddenly asked. “She’s in the entertainment industry, so I guess she needs this more than I do.”

“She does. I’ll give it to her later.”

Since James had said so, Rayna did not see why she should turn him down. Although the design was not to her taste, Rayna still put it on since it fitted her ring finger nicely and was a tracker made especially by her brother.

When lunch time came, the doorbell rang. It was Roxanne.

“I hope I’m not too late. I came right after I finished the shoot for an ad,” she announced gleefully. She looked at her brother in disbelief upon entering the house. “James! What did you eat at school? You grew so tall!”

“I didn’t have any superfood. You only have yourself to blame for not being as tall,” James ridiculed.

“Hey! I’m a hundred and seventy! I’m taller than Rayna, at least!” Roxanne seethed, kicking James. “Please speak politely to your sister. You’re always so rude. Does it hurt being polite to your elder sister?”

“Why do I feel like you’re younger than me?”

“Cut it out, James!”

“All right. That’s enough. Come over and eat,” Rayna called out, knocking on the table.

After Roxanne went over to the table, Rayna glared at her and questioned, “Since when are you taller than me? I’m also a hundred and seventy,” Rayna pointed out.

“Rayna, that’s not your height. You’re a hundred and sixty-eight.”

Rayna picked up a piece of beef and stuffed it in Roxanne’s mouth. “Shut up and eat!”

Linda smiled, looking at the children bantering among themselves.

During the meal, Linda saw to it that Roxanne had two plates of spaghetti until she was so full she lay flat on the couch after the meal. Since Roxanne was not rushing to go home, Rayna suggested that they play poker.

Roxanne readily flashed ten thousand in cash for the game, but all the money ended up being pocketed by James.

“James Griffith! Can’t you go easy on me just once? I’m your second elder sister! Do you have something against me? This is my money!” Roxanne bellowed in disgruntlement as she booted James.

“Just shut up if you’re a noob,” James teased with his lips curved. He was in a phenomenal mood, for he had just won the game.

“Rayna! He’s bullying me!” Roxanne complained to Rayna. “He’s even taking advantage of me in a game. He’s insufferable!”

“Says the one who kicked me!” James begged to differ.

“So, what? How could you do this to a woman? You’re doomed to be single forever, James!” Roxanne shouted, kicking him twice again.

“He already has a girlfriend, though,” Rayna suddenly interrupted with a sly smile.

“For real?” Roxanne was surprised. She looked at James and asked, “Who’s this tasteless girl?”

James’ expression darkened.

“What? James has a girlfriend?” Linda came dashing over when she heard their conversation. “James, you’re still young. You should focus on your studies now.”

“Mom, she’s just my schoolmate. No one has the time to think about relationships at my school,” James explained, rubbing his buzz cut.

“Good to know,” Linda noted with a sigh of relief.

“I bet she doesn’t even like you. Look at yourself in the mirror. You’re so clueless. I wouldn’t even fall for you if I were a young girl,” Roxanne chaffed with a laugh.

“You’re so annoying, Roxanne,” James retorted with a fallen face.

Kristie is already a handful. I can’t believe I have to deal with Roxanne even after work.

The sister stuck out her tongue at James and took out her phone as she turned to Rayna. “Rayna, I came across a really cool beautifying app recently. Why don’t we take some selfies together?”

Rayna looked back in disgust. “I’m not sure about you, but I’ve really had enough of you. I already see you every day.”

“Hey! It’s just a few photos!”

James stared hard at Roxanne, feeling something was amiss, and his gaze turned cold.

The three of them stayed at Linda’s place until about three in the afternoon before taking their leave.

Rayna wanted to send James back, but the latter declined.

“It’s fine, Rayna. I can go home with Roxanne. I have something to discuss with her,” he answered, hugging Roxanne’s shoulder.

“Okay, then.”

So, Rayna hailed a taxi after she walked out of the residential area.

As for James, since Roxanne’s minivan was just right beside the road, he went in with her with his arm still around her.

“What do you want, James?” Roxanne questioned the moment they got in.

Instead of answering, James grabbed her phone from her bag and unlocked it before Roxanne could even stop him.

When he clicked into the album, he saw numerous photos of Rayna and waved the phone in front of Roxanne. “Why did you take so many photos of her?” he interrogated.

“What’s wrong with that? Can’t I take pictures of my sister?” Feeling uncomfortable under James’ burning gaze, Roxanne came up with a strained excuse.

“Don’t lie! You’re so selfish and vain!” James scoffed. He thought Roxanne had used Rayna’s photos for unscrupulous purposes, so he opened her WhatsApp.

Roxanne felt her heart thumped violently.

That’s it.

James scrolled through her chats but did not find Roxanne’s conversation with Jefferson, for she had the habit of deleting all her conversations with him.

James could not put a finger on anything without any proof.

“That’s enough, James,” Roxanne snapped, snatching her phone back. “She’s my sister. I won’t do anything to her, even if I’m selfish and vain. I’m not that mean!”

“Then why did you save so many photos of her?”

Roxanne felt so pressured she broke into a sweat. She pouted, answering, “Fine. I’ve been looking for a boyfriend for her since she divorced Julian.”

“You’re looking for a boyfriend for her? I doubt you’ll even come across anyone decent,” James commented, eyeing her from tip to toe.

“What do you mean?” Roxanne reacted in dissatisfaction. “I’m still popular in the circle and know many high-level executives in many companies. They’re way better than Julian.”

“She has just gone through a divorce. Can’t you give her a break, at least? Whether she gets married or not has nothing to do with you,” James argued, his hand pressing against the car seat.

“I’m just trying to help our own sister! You don’t have to be so hard on me as if I did something unforgivable,” Roxanne replied, shrinking backward to keep some distance.

“You’d better not do anything. I don’t care how you behave in the entertainment industry, but I’ll break your neck if you dare use Rayna as a bargaining chip.”

Roxanne paled. That was the first time James ever threatened her.

 

Chapter 49 Thoughts Running Wild

Jessica had just reached home when Rayna arrived with some food.

Jessica used to stay at Tucker Condominium after signing a three-year lease, but she was tricked by a long-time scammer and ended up in dire straits. When Rayna saw that, she asked Jessica to move in since there was an empty room at her condominium at half the rental price.

“You’re my savior, Rayna! I can’t believe you brought me food! I did an experiment today, and it was successful. Why don’t we go out and celebrate later?” Jessica asked, pecking Rayna on the cheek twice.

“Why should we go out? We can just celebrate at home,” Rayna asked, puzzled.

“Of course, we have to. It’s been some time since I came to Norwal City, but I’ve always been buried in my design drafts every weekend. I never had the chance to explore the place,” Jessica complained.

She’s right. I’ve been resting a lot over the past two weekends, but Jessica has been working overtime since the planning department has been busy.

“All right, then. I’ll bring you out later.”

Afraid that the food might turn bad the next day, Jessica finished them off immediately. “Mm! This tastes delicious! Your mom’s cooking is superb! It’s so good I almost swallowed my tongue!”

“She used to be a chef,” Rayna replied. “She had to bring the three of us up, so sometimes I’ll cook when she was working. My brother picked up the craft when he grew up too.”

In fact, Roxanne was the only one among them who did not know how to cook.

“I didn’t know you had a brother. Is he still studying?” Jessica asked out of curiosity, holding her glasses.

“Yes. He’s at boarding school, so we don’t see him often, but it’s weird. His school doesn’t require a university entrance exam. They admit students based on internal referrals,” Rayna said with a nod.

“Oh! He must be really smart, then,” Jessica remarked, moving closer to Rayna. “By the way, I saw Kristie going out when I came home in the morning to grab something. There was a tall and hot guy beside her. Do you think she’s cheating on Mr. Faymon?”

“I don’t think she will. The man you saw is probably her bodyguard.” From what Rayna observed, Curtis was the only man Kristie cared about. She had never ever paid attention to anyone else.

Besides, Kristie would not have the guts to keep a sugar baby right under Curtis’ nose.

“He keeps a straight face and looks a little like Brad Pitt. It would be nice if he were my boyfriend,” Jessica noted wishfully, biting her fork.

Here, she sighed. “But that’s never going to happen. I’m busy with work all the time and don’t even have time for myself, what more having a boyfriend? Life is hard!”

Rayna pursed her lips, smiling. “Don’t worry. I’ll bring you to meet some hot guys later.”

“I love you, Rayna!”

Rayna turned on her laptop to sort some work stuff before heading out. There were still a few documents Curtis sent in her email, making her wonder if he even took what she said seriously when they talked the other day.

I thought we’d called it even between us. Why do I still have to go through his documents for him? The people in the secretarial department are there for a reason.

“Let’s go, Rayna!” Jessica had already showered and dressed up when she hurried Rayna up.

The latter almost burst out laughing when she saw Jessica.

Because Jessica looked too young for her age, she looked like a student even after she put on something sexy. She looked petite and slim, with her hair tied up in a bun. Anyone would agree that she was cute.

“What’s the matter? Is there something wrong with my clothes?” Jessica asked, looking at herself.

“No. You look adorable. I’m sure some places won’t even allow you in,” Rayna said, trying to hold in her laugh.

“I know I’m short, so please stop rubbing it in.”

“Fine. I’ll stop,” Rayna agreed, going into her room to change into a maxi and get her bag before heading out with Jessica.

They left between nine and ten, and it was the peak hour. The traffic was congested, with many cars flooding the street.

Worried that Jessica would be denied entry into the club, Rayna brought her to a bar instead, but Jessica refused to settle for that, so she searched for a good place for fun online and dragged Rayna into the car.

After going one round, they arrived at Heavenly Palace.

“I don’t think this is a good idea,” Rayna said, looking at the club in aversion, for it reminded her of the day she was plastered and committed the worst mistake in her life.

“This place is buzzing with people! Google says this is the most happening place in Norwal City, and there are many hotties around here. I’ve never been here before. Let’s go!” Jessica burst out in excitement.

Given how adventurous she was, Jessica eagerly tugged Rayna into unchartered territory. When they went in, the guards looked at her briefly and let them in, and they entered a dimly-lit venue where everyone was walking around looking like zombies.

When a waiter observed that Jessica was new to the place, he approached her to ask if she was interested in playing any games. Feeling uneasy, Rayna asked, “Are there any private rooms available?”

“I’m sorry, miss. All the rooms have been taken tonight. Why don’t you sit at the table instead?” the waiter suggested, pointing at a less-packed table facing the stage.

Rayna agreed and walked over with Jessica. Then, she ordered some alcohol.

“This place is really something else. There are so many cool guys around here. Don’t you think so, Rayna?” Jessica asked with her eyes glimmering as she looked at the man performing on the stage.

“Yeah,” Rayna answered dismissively. She glanced at the man and quickly retracted her gaze. She had no idea why he reminded her of Curtis when he had a towel wrapped around him.

He looked so charming back then. His build was great, and he was strong. His Apollo’s belt was even apparent above where his towel was.

“Ahem!” Rayna suddenly choked on her alcohol when she realized her thoughts had wandered. Her cheeks were flushed.

What was I even thinking?

“Are you okay, Rayna? Did you just choke?” Jessica asked. When she saw how red Rayna’s cheeks were, she nodded knowingly. “I see. You’re mesmerized by that guy on the stage.”

“Nonsense,” Rayna replied, taking another sip to cover up.

“Hey there, pretties. Is it just the both of you?”

“Do you guys want to join us?”

Suddenly, a group of men and women approached them with some dice. When Jessica saw that, she beckoned the lot over, and their table became filled with people in no time.

Rayna was vigilant at first and sat aside to watch, but when someone pulled her into the game, she loosened up a bit and started having fun.

Amidst the crowd, a careful pair of eyes had been watching Rayna and the others.

A man in full black left silently to make a call when he observed that Rayna was having a good time playing and drinking with other men.

Meanwhile, over at the Faymon residence, it was already past ten when Curtis arrived home in lethargy after work.

Alfred was still up and watching the news in the living room when he reached.

“Why are you still awake, Dad? Didn’t the doctor say you should sleep before eleven because of your health?” Curtis asked with a frown as he walked in.

He was about to call the housekeeper over to bring Alfred to his room.

“I know my body, so stop nagging me like my doctor. You’ve been busy with the company ever since you came back. You don’t even come home sometimes. When will I ever get to talk to you if I don’t stay

up late to wait for you?” Alfred questioned, displeased.

“I’m sorry, Dad. I’ll spend more time at home once I’m done and over with the work I have. All right?” he proposed, sitting down on the couch beside Alfred.

 

Chapter 50 With Help From My Young Friend

That seemed to have improved Alfred’s mood considerably. “Have you eaten yet? Would you like Macey to help make you some supper?

“I had something before I came in, so I’m not really hungry right now.”

“Let me get you something to drink then.” Following that, Alfred stood up and went inside the kitchen. He retrieved a cup of milkshake from the fridge and went on to place it down in front of Curtis. “Kept it well-chilled, so it is still drinkable.”

“A milkshake?” Curtis was nonplussed. “I’m not going anywhere near that. Too much sugar.”

“It’s just one cup once in a while. What harm could that possibly do?” Alfred shot him a look. “Being this health conscious when you’re barely thirty makes you even more obsessive than an old man like me!”

That got Curtis subtly twitching his lips.

Acknowledging that there was no getting out of this, he slid a straw into the milkshake. Two sips from the beverage were enough to have his brows creased up in a tight furrow.

This is sickeningly sweet, but still tolerable.

“How do you find it?” Alfred asked.

“It’s all right.” Curtis chuckled as he inspected that cup of beverage. “Surely, you did not wait up for me just to make me drink this milkshake?”

“I did, actually. A young friend recommended that I try this when I went out today,” said Alfred before he let out a sigh. “I guess I must really be getting old, being received with such disdain when making my

rounds at the store.”

Curtis’ expression turned dark when he heard that. “Which store was that? I’ll have Gabriel fire every single of them who were on the roster today.”

“Bah, forget it. Their jobs are hard enough as it is. Maybe it was because I showed up dressing a little too casually.” Waving his hand, Alfred then nudged the package on the coffee table toward Curtis. “Your birthday is almost here, so I went out and got you this. Go on and have a look at it.”

Curtis unwrapped the gift box to find two designer neckties in very tasteful colorways.

“Hmm. Pretty nice.”

“Yeah, I thought so too.” It was rare that the usually fussy Curtis would also take such a liking toward the ties. Alfred puffed up his chest, seemingly very pleased with himself. “My young friend had a hand in helping me to pick out these ones as well.”

“This young friend you keep going on and on about. Was it someone you have just met today?” Curtis asked in amusement. “Looks like this little fellow has left quite an impression on you. If possible, I’d like to meet ’em for myself.”

Curtis had hardly ever seen Alfred return home in such a fine mood after a day out in town.

“I’m afraid that that won’t be possible anymore,” Alfred lamented. With her beauty and wonderful personality, I bet she’s already attached. How could there be any chance for anyone else to woo her?

The thought of marriage prompted Alfred to look inquisitively toward Curtis. “Say, Curtis, you have been spending quite a bit of time working abroad. Was there any girl out there who had caught your fancy?”

“Not as yet.”

Alfred exhaled and began to lecture him. “Don’t be so picky and find yourself someone who you like. I’m not that old-fashioned, so you don’t have to bother too much about what your uncles think. I’ve raised you myself, Curtis. You grew up without any siblings, so I really don’t want you to still carry on living a lonely life after I’m gone. I truly hope to see you have a family of your own.”

Coming to that point, Alfred tried to make it more light-hearted. “Just look at your uncles. Their kids are all married, with some having as many as three children of their own already. Then consider your own position. Without a wife and children, how much could you realistically expect to receive for your share of the inheritance? As things stand, most of it will likely go to them as and when I kick the bucket.”

“You’re going to live to a ripe old age,” a solemn Curtis insisted. “I’m going to make sure of that, no matter the cost.”

Though deeply touched, Alfred replied, “It’s only natural to experience sickness and death in old age. Such is the full circle of life, so I’ve made my peace with it. It is only you who I cannot stop worrying about.”

He regarded the handsome and strapping Curtis with mixed emotions.

The Faymon family simply owes this boy too much.

“Be patient.” Curtis paused before he spoke up. “I’d be heading overseas on a work trip in a couple of days. Let me look into it when I return. I’d swear that I’d bring someone back to see you.”

“I’ll be holding you to that. When the time comes, don’t even think about using your busy schedule as an excuse.” That finally drew a smile from Alfred who even went on to advise him further. “You know that the money is always going to be there, so why don’t you learn to live like those young people out there, and try going on a date more often for a change?”

Curtis smiled out of politeness, for in spite of Alfred’s concern for him, he himself had no interest whatsoever in romantic pursuits.

While the father and son pair chatted, Curtis’ phone suddenly rang.

When he saw that the call came from Gabriel, Curtis picked it up right away with the assumption that it must be about some matter of importance. “Yes?”

“Uh, Mr. Faymon. Cillian has been following Ms. Garland. He had just informed me that she had gotten herself drunk at Heavenly Palace,” Gabriel said. “He doesn’t quite know what to do because the friend she is with happens to be drunk as well.”

“So, what you’re trying to tell me here? Are you clueless just like him?” Curtis was so annoyed that he started scoffing. “Are you calling me because you are expecting me to fix this for you?”

“Cillian thinks that there might be someone else watching Ms. Garland. I suspect that they may be working for Jefferson. She’d be due to fly off in a few days’ time, so that makes me worried that something may happen to her during this time.”

Hearing that, Curtis massaged his temples.

He had nearly forgotten that Rayna and Jefferson used to be an item, and this time, Jefferson was also angling toward clinching that deal. In view of that, the latter would surely make a move on Rayna when he had a chance.

“Forget about the backup. Go link up with Curtis directly and escort her home,” Curtis ordered.

“The thing is, Mr. Faymon…” an apprehensive Gabriel said. “Elizabeth has an upset stomach and is on a drip, so I’m currently keeping her company at the hospital. You know that I wouldn’t have called to trouble you otherwise.”

That did not sit well with Curtis. “It’s just a cat. Surely it won’t run off by itself even if you left it at the veterinary hospital?”

“She’s not just any cat, Mr. Faymon. She’s Elizabeth, my Elizabeth.” Gabriel solemnly corrected him. “I can’t allow anything to happen to her because she’s the very reason that I would do anything for a living at all.”

The stupefied Curtis then hung up, looking quite dour.

Had it been any easier for him to find an assistant as competent as Gabriel, he would surely have fired the latter in a heartbeat.

“It’s getting late, Dad. You should have the housekeeper help you upstairs.” Straightening himself up from the couch, Curtis felt that he had to be there personally to ensure that Jefferson did not get in ahead of him. “I’m heading out. I have something to take care of.”

“Is this about a woman?” Having overheard bits and pieces of what was said, Alfred thus said teasingly, “Looks like you do have women around you after all!”

“It’s nothing like that. She’s just a friend.” Curtis replied in exasperation.

“Always good to have more friends then. Have fun.” Alfred cast him a knowing look and reminded him to be mindful on the road. Then the old man headed upstairs with a little more pep in his step. As for Curtis, he decided against trying to explain any further.

He’s not going to believe me anyway.

Hopping into a random car in the garage, it took Curtis just over ten minutes to reach the entrance of Heavenly Palace.

“Mr. Faymon.” Having waited outside for some time, Cillian promptly approached when he saw Curtis arrive.

Lifting his head to gaze upon Heavenly Palace’s signage, it brought back memories of the business meeting he attended there where he first got acquainted with Rayna. Didn’t think that that woman would continue coming here after all this time. Hasn’t she learned her lesson yet?

As he walked along, Curtis asked, “What’s the situation?”

“It’s kind of strange now that I think of it,” said Cillian, scratching his head. “Those people only kept playing games with Rayna and her friend. They didn’t try anything else apart from that, nor did they behave inappropriately while they were drinking.”

Curtis’ expression turned grim.

No one who hangs out in this place is of the decent sort. The only logical explanation is that they must have been sent by Jefferson.

Picking up his pace while he made his way toward the bar, Curtis pushed past the door that hindered him and strode inside. He was immediately assailed by the blare of the music and a blast of the wintry air-conditioning. The dim interior lighting of the venue was designed to foster a somewhat sensuous vibe.

“Ms. Garland is right over there, Mr. Faymon.” Cillian pointed.

Tracking visually in the direction where the former was looking, Curtis saw several men and women seated at a booth, indulging in some sort of game. Rayna was there downing a drink with her head reared back. Her flushed cheeks attested to the state of drunkenness she was in.