Ch. 511..520

Chapter 511

Jefferson walked over and complimented her with a smile. “Yes, you look stunning.”

He asked Curtis, “Mr. Faymon, does my wife look good in that wedding gown?”

Curtis glanced at the woman before answering, “No. The gown exposes her flabby upper arms.”

That insulting remark rendered Rayna speechless.

“My wife is pregnant and has gained some weight, so it’s normal for her arms to look a little flabby.” Jefferson grinned before turning to the store manager. “I think this dress brings out the curves of voluptuous women. What do you think?”

“Yes, yes, yes.” The store manager, who was already breaking out in a cold sweat, bobbed her head repeatedly.

As an avid reader of entertainment news, the store manager was aware of the rumors about Curtis and Rayna. She always thought Rayna was lucky because the men in her life were all big shots. The fact that she was marrying Jefferson further proved how blessed she was.

Just when she thought everything would go well, Curtis made an unexpected appearance all of a sudden. I understand Mr. Hamilton is doing this to annoy Mr. Faymon, but why does he have to drag me into this?

The store manager decided to sit on the fence to avoid offending anyone. She smiled and replied, “We have many gowns in the store. Feel free to go through them one by one. It takes time to pick the one that you’re satisfied with.”

Jefferson said, “That was why we’re here today. We have ample time to go through all the gowns here. I want this gown, so pack it for me. I’ll update you if my wife is interested in another piece.”

“Why do I need so many gowns?” Rayna immediately stopped him. “Just one gown will do.”

“We should get some spare ones. Gowns get dirty fast, and you might accidentally tear them too.” Jefferson tickled her nose with his finger. “Wedding is an important life event, so it must be perfect. Don’t keep thinking of helping me cut costs, okay?”

Rayna hummed in response and responded with a wry smile.

She felt uncomfortable as she could tell someone was shooting daggers at her from a distance.

While tension was high between the men, Kristie, who had put on a gown in the fitting room, ran toward Rayna after admiring her own beauty in the mirror for some time.

“Rayna!” She embraced her gently as she knew Rayna was pregnant. “You look gorgeous in this gown! It fits you like a glove!”

Rayna sized up the gown Kristie was wearing and froze for a minute. “W-Why are you in a wedding gown?”

“Curt told me to put it on,” Kristie replied. She lifted the train of the gown and spun around. “What do you think? Do I look pretty? Oh, I’m so in love with this gown!”

The expression on Rayna’s face changed. Curtis told her to put on the wedding gown?

“Who are you marrying?” Rayna asked.

“Curt has made all the necessary arrangements for me!” Kristie immediately explained as she was afraid Curtis might cause further misunderstanding. “That’s why he brought me here to pick a wedding

gown!”

“Kristie.” Curtis expressed his disdain by knitting his brows. “Why are you so talkative today?”

Kristie rolled her eyes at him. I’m trying to say the right thing to avoid misunderstanding, yet he blames me for being talkative. How atrocious!

Curtis made that remark because he felt Kristie had talked too much, but his response had given Rayna the wrong idea. She recalled what Curtis had said when she went to look for Kristie. “Since you dote on your brother, I can dote on Kristie too. He had caused so much trouble, but I haven’t even settled the score with him. Yet, you asked me what’s going to happen to him? I’ll tell you now—if he appears in front of me, I’m afraid I might teach him a lesson! Once she forgets about James, she can live a better life and meet someone who loves her more.”

Feeling completely drained out of energy, Rayna pinched Jefferson hard.

Jefferson instantly turned his attention to her. “What’s wrong, Belle?”

“I-I’m not feeling well.” Rayna felt sick at heart.

Her stomach churned as she spoke. When she felt she was about to throw up, she immediately covered her mouth with her hands.

“Are you going to throw up?” Jefferson felt anxious upon noticing how miserable she was.

After asking the manager where the restroom was, he quickly brought her out of the store.

“What’s wrong with Rayna?” Kristie looked at Rayna and Jefferson before muttering, “Pregnant mothers will experience morning sickness. Rayna must be experiencing that now, am I right?”

Curtis’ expression turned grim. “Return to the fitting room and try the other wedding gowns!”

“All right, all right. You don’t have to scream at me. Geez!” Kristie pouted in annoyance. “Why vent your frustration on me? You’re the one who failed to keep Rayna by your side. It’s your fault.”

“What did you just say?”

Kristie was so afraid he might explode that she lowered her head and returned to the fitting room with a gloomy face.

As soon as Kristie left for the fitting room, Curtis called the manager over and fished a credit card out of his wallet. “No matter how many gowns they choose, I want you to make payment with this card.”

The manager was able to read between the lines. After steadying herself and accepting the credit card, she said, “Sure. Don’t worry, Mr. Faymon. I know what to do.”

Curtis was pleased to see how alert the manager was. He then turned around and left the store.

The manager paused for a moment before asking, “Mr. Faymon, are you not going to wait for Ms. Winton?”

“She’ll be fine. She can walk on her own.”

The manager did not know what else to say upon hearing that.

After Curtis left the bridal store, Rayna, who had just walked out of the restroom, was hesitant to linger in the store as she did not want to deal with Curtis anymore. She turned to Jefferson and said, “I don’t feel well. Let’s pay for this gown and leave, shall we?”

Jefferson agreed and went downstairs to make payment.

“All right, Mr. Hamilton. The payment is complete.” The manager returned the card to him and said apologetically, “But we ran out of receipts. Can I give you the receipt when you come to collect the

wedding gown?”

“Sure.” Jefferson put his card into his pocket and left the store with Rayna.

After they had stepped out of the building, the cashier could not help but ask the manager, “You’re aware that you made payment with another card instead of Mr. Hamilton’s? I hinted to you just now.”

“I know.” The manager tore the receipt and sighed. “Focus on your work. Don’t invite trouble.”

The cashier hummed in acknowledgment.

By the time Kristie walked out of the fitting room with another wedding gown, everyone had left except the cashier.

“Where’s Mr. Faymon?” she asked the cashier.

The cashier replied, “Mr. Faymon left. He said he had urgent matters to attend to. He also wanted me to tell you to take a cab home.”

A vortex of anger swirled inside Kristie. “How could he do this to me? He brought me here and went off without me? Argh!”

“I’ll buy the wedding gown in the fitting room. Wrap it up for me!” Kristie instructed the cashier. “Mr. Faymon will pay for the dress with his credit card!”

“I’m sorry, Ms. Winton. Mr. Faymon didn’t leave his card with us,” the cashier replied.

Kristie was so mad that she was bereft of words.

The cashier further added salt to her injury. “Mr. Faymon also said a teenager like you don’t need a wedding gown. He wanted you to just wear the clothes you came in.”

Kristie cussed Curtis repeatedly in her heart.

After changing into her daily wear and returning to the store, she noticed the cashier was chatting with a man.

After taking a closer look at the tall man, Kristie shot daggers at him and exclaimed, “Are you stalking me, you perv*rt? Didn’t I tell you to stay home?”

“Mr. Faymon sent me here,” he answered.

“I don’t need you to fetch me. I can walk!” Kristie exploded with rage. Before leaving, she turned around to look at him. “Do you have a credit card with you? What’s your credit limit?”

Samson asked, “Yes. What do you want to buy, Ms. Winton?”

“Really? You have a credit card?” His answer perked her up. “Curt pays you well every month, right? I want you to pay for a wedding gown with your credit card. I’ll pay you back once we get home!”

 

 

 

 

Chapter 512

“Ms. Winton, the card Mr. Faymon gave you is frozen while the one you’re carrying has only a hundred thousand, so how are you going to pay me back?”

Rayna widened her eyes in surprise. “You knew?”

“Mmm-hmm.”

“Come on, lend me your card. I really like the bridal gown.” It was rare for her to find one she liked at first sight that also fitted her perfectly. “I’ll pay you back in installments, all right?”

“Which one?”

Kristie quickly carried the gown to show him, her face filled with anticipation. “This one. How does it look?”

“Hmm, it does look good.” After throwing it a glance, Samson inquired with the salesperson, “How much does this gown cost?”

“Let me check.” After checking with the manager, the salesperson replied, “This piece was designed in collaboration with C&C and costs one million and ninety thousand.”

Kristie hummed in acknowledgment. “It’s rather cheap.”

She had bought many limited edition bags previously that cost around eight hundred thousand. Coupled with the fact that she was decked out in designer wear on a daily basis, she could never grasp the idea of something being expensive.

Realizing something, she turned to Samson. “Don’t tell me that you don’t even have a million?”

“I do.”

“Good—”

“But I don’t want to lend you a million just to buy a bridal gown,” Samson refused. “Ms. Winton, if you only pay me tens of thousands a month, you still won’t be able to clear your debt even after I quit.”

“My card is just frozen for the time being. Curt will definitely unfreeze it next month.”

“Did Mr. Faymon tell you that?”

Kristie’s ensuing silence was an implicit admission that she was lying.

Samson turned around and walked out the door. “Let’s go, Ms. Winton.”

However, Kristie lunged forward to hug his leg with her body squatting on the ground.

When his leg failed to budge, Samson turned to look at her. “Get up. Why are you buying a wedding gown when you’re not getting married?”

“I don’t care! Just buy it for me!” Pouting her lips, Kristie began to kick up a big fuss. “By buying it now, I can give my boyfriend a surprise when he returns!”

Samson was rendered speechless.

“I beg of you, please lend me your card!” Kristie continued to plead coyly. “I’ll sell some of my bags to pay you back after this.”

She was truly enamored with the gown.

All this while, she would never act cute in front of other men other than Curtis and those close to her, but for some reason, Samson had become an exception.

After spending some time with him, he filled her with a sense of security, triggering the urge within her to stay by his side.

Despite not knowing the reason, she just gave in to her emotions.

At that moment, Samson’s eyes glistened for a fleeting moment before he let out a sigh.

“Fine, I’ll buy it for you. Can you please get up already?”

“I knew it! You’re the best!” Kristie scrambled up to her feet and instructed the salesperson, “Pack that gown up for me. We’re going to pay for it right away!”

“Yes, Ms. Winton.” The salesperson was trying hard to hold back her laughter after watching the entire episode.

Nevertheless, Kristie didn’t hold it against her as she left proudly with Samson.

When she arrived downstairs, two young girls in exquisite makeup were whispering in each other’s ears.

Hearing the name “Wyatt Lopez” being mentioned by accident, she walked over to eavesdrop.

One of the girls complained, “Don’t you think that Mr. Lopez is crazy? He orders us to his place just to hear us speak coyly. If he isn’t satisfied with your performance, he would lash out fiercely and kick you out.”

Another girl added, “A friend of mine went there before and was yelled at before being thrown out. Fortunately, she was paid a handsome sum of money.”

“Don’t the rumors say that Mr. Lopez spoils his female companions? How did it come to this?”

“Who knows? But I can’t deny his generosity.”

“He has to be! No one would behave obsequiously after being humiliated if it wasn’t for money,” the girl scoffed. “If he pays me, I, too, would be willing to spend the night with him. Haha!”

Unable to contain her anger, Kristie strutted forward in her heels to confront them.

“And here I was, thinking that you were actually pretty. Hmph!” Kristie threw them a look of disdain. “Mr. Lopez was right to kick you out. Just look at yourselves, even I would do the same like him.”

The two girls turned pale at the sudden disparagement.

Thereafter, one of them realized what was going on. “Kristie Winton? Even if you’re a star, it doesn’t give you the right to insult us.”

“Are you even worthy of my ridicule?” Kristie scrutinized them from head to toe. “Instead of going for plastic surgery or learning how to dress better from some fashion magazines, you chose to shamelessly walk around with fake designer goods!”

As the girl frantically hid her bag behind her, she puffed her chest and retorted, “Even with our fake bags, we’re still better off than you, a slut. You truly deserve to be blacklisted!”

“What did you say?” Grabbing the girl’s hair, Kristie glared at her. “Who are you calling a slut?”

“You, obviously!” the girl screamed. “Do you think just because the videos have been deleted that no one knows about them? Compared to us ordinary folks, you’re despicable for doing it with a group of men!”

Kristie’s overwhelming anger sent her into a daze.

When she was still acting, she would frequently help Curtis out with his business negotiations and was naturally well-protected all the time.

Little did she expect someone to use this to slander her behind her back.

However, before she could react, the girl was suddenly pulled from her grasp.

All she saw was Samson picking up a vase from the side and smashing it onto the girl’s head. With her head bleeding from the impact, the girl screamed incessantly.

Samson then threw aside the broken vase and glared at the girls. His murderous intent was clear from the vicious expression on his face.

“Get lost!”

His thundering voice terrified them to the brink of tears.

After the bleeding girl’s companion helped her to her feet, both of them staggered their way out of the shop and fled.

Subsequently, Samson gave the stunned shop owner a wad of cash. “This is for the vase.”

With one hand holding the bridal gown bag, he led Kristie out with the other.

Thereafter, Kristie had no idea how she got back into the car, for her mind was preoccupied with the girl’s words and the image of Samson smashing a vase on the girl’s head.

“She accused me of being a slut,” Kristie mumbled, feeling as if she could break down anytime. “I’m not. I’m not! No one will dare touch me because Curt will protect me.”

Just as she spoke, a sense of bitterness overwhelmed her, causing her to burst into tears.

I’m really scared, and I don’t know why I’m crying.

Giving her a hug, Samson comforted her in a gentle tone, “Forget what they said. They were just making baseless comments after watching the news. You’re the prettiest princess in the world—”

The moment his hand came into contact with Kristie’s arm, she felt her hair stand on end as she let out a fearful scream.

“Don’t touch me!”

As she recoiled to the other end of the car, her hands subconsciously wrapped themselves around her trembling shoulders.

As Samson gradually retracted his hand, his fingers balled into fists. The terrified look on Kristie’s face triggered an intense heartache within him.

When he noticed that Kristie was still shivering uncontrollably after a while with no sign of calming down, he opened a bottle of water and dropped a tablet in. After giving it a shake, he handed it to her. “Here, drink some water.”

Kristie received the bottle from him and took two mouthfuls.

With her head pressing against the window, her eyes gradually closed when drowsiness set in soon after.

It wasn’t until she fell asleep that Samson pulled her into his embrace.

Staring into her slightly reddened eyes, he stroked her icy hands with his heart filled with anger and guilt.

“I’m sorry.” Stroking her cheeks, he murmured, “I failed to protect you.”

 

 

 

 

Chapter 513

Meanwhile, the sales of Glory’s new products exceeded all expectations. Supported by a wave of positive consumer reviews, the factory began preparing a second batch for sale when stocks of the first batch had largely been drawn down.

Once the busy period at Glory was over, Rayna applied for a long leave to prepare for her wedding at the end of the month.

As for her bridesmaid, she chose two—Kristie and Roxanne.

Upon learning of the news, Roxanne rushed back from overseas and questioned Rayna the moment she saw her. “Rayna, are you sure about this? I thought you had feelings for Mr. Faymon. Why—”

“Obviously, I wouldn’t marry him if I wasn’t sure. This is a big decision after all.” While speaking, she gave Roxanne a pinch. “Anyway, Jefferson has told me everything, so why aren’t you on board now that I’m marrying him?”

Roxanne exclaimed, “He really did?”

“There’s no reason for him to hide anything from me now that we’re about to get married.” Rayna added, “As for you, how could you not be grateful after what he has done for you?”

“Come on, you’re overreacting.” With her face being pinched by Rayna, Roxanne mumbled, “I was just helping Jefferson monitor you, not like I did anything else.”

“I’m surprised you still got the cheek to bring it up!”

Roxanne tucked her head between her shoulders after being yelled at. Thereafter, she quickly changed the topic. “Have you ordered the bridesmaid dress? How does it look?”

“Are you trying to outshine me? Don’t forget that I’m the one getting married!” Rayna rolled her eyes at her sister. It was then that something occurred to her. “Have you seen Cillian recently?”

“Not really. He’s still in Xyperia.” Roxanne picked up an apple from the fruit plate and bit into it. “On my way back, I gave him a call and told him about your wedding. He told me to convey his wishes and get you a gift on his behalf.”

Roxanne’s brows knitted as she continued in an upset tone, “I have no idea what he’s doing there, and now, he seldom takes my calls. At the rate things are going, he’ll probably forget that I’m his girlfriend.”

Rayna instantly knew that he was there because of Theodore.

After all, other than her brother and Cillian, there were very few competent bodyguards whom Curtis could trust.

However, the thought of James’ death brought a grim look to Rayna’s eyes.

Despite having left James’ ashes at the funeral home for a long time, she still didn’t dare tell Linda about it.

“Rayna, what’s wrong?” When she saw Rayna’s face turn pale abruptly, Roxanne probed, “Is there something you can’t tell me? Do you actually not want to marry Jefferson?”

Deep down, Roxanne had always felt Rayna’s breakup with Curtis was too abrupt. Now that the latter was rushing to marry Jefferson, she couldn’t help but feel that something was amiss.

Even though she liked the idea of having Jefferson as her brother-in-law, she still wanted Rayna to find happiness.

“I almost forgot!” Roxanne scanned the surroundings and asked curiously, “I just noticed that I have not seen James. Where has that brat gone to? Is he still together with Kristie?”

Feeling a squeeze in her heart, Rayna pursed her lips as she replied, “He… is still overseas and can’t return for the time being.”

“But I’m busy too. In fact, I had to beg the film crew to give me two weeks off!” Roxanne snorted in response. “How can he not attend something as important as your wedding? I don’t care. I’m going to call him and give him an earful!”

“He has turned off his phone. You can’t reach him.” Rayna added, “Enough of that. Come and check out the bridesmaid dress.”

Roxanne put away her phone and walked over. “Is it gorgeous? If not, I’m going to wear my own gown instead.”

Rayna didn’t know what to say.

Meanwhile, the wedding of Glory’s CEO was a high-profile event where the press scrambled for the opportunity to report on it.

Those who received the invitation flaunted it publicly, whereas those who didn’t could only look on with green-eyed envy while trying to secure it through back channels.

In addition, all of Glory’s business partners and friends of the couple were also invited.

The next day, one of the wedding invitations arrived at Faymon Group.

The instant Gabriel saw what it was, he regretted personally accepting the delivery instead of letting Tilly do it.

Sending this to the CEO’s office would be suicide!

After pondering over his dilemma, Gabriel steeled himself and entered Curtis’ office.

“Mr. Faymon,” Gabriel said as he warily placed the invitation on the table, “Glory’s CEO sent this wedding invitation over.”

When Curtis looked up at the invitation on the table, his eyes narrowed as he went on to open it.

Upon flipping it open, he was greeted by a picture of the wedding couple wearing gentle smiles. The details of the invitation were written beside it together with both their signatures.

However, Curtis sneered in response.

Jefferson really knows how to get on my nerves. He must be worried that I wouldn’t attend the wedding. That’s why he got someone to send the invitation here!

While waiting, Gabriel could clearly sense the tension in the air and see Curtis’ darkening expression. He even felt a chill down his spine as panic began to set in.

He then suggested, “Mr. Faymon, if there’s nothing else—”

Curtis interrupted him, “Mr. Hennessey of Ocean International just called me. Do you know what he wants?”

The question stunned Gabriel. “I don’t. I have not received any calls from his company.”

After chuckling the invitation aside, Curtis flatly explained, “He told me that he received an email last night relating to the proposal for Project C. The sender demanded a billion for it. Otherwise, he would send it to three of our competitors.”

“Really?” The stunned Gabriel gasped. “Only the representative of Ocean International and we know about the project which is top secret. How did it leak out?”

Curtis stared at him with a grim look in his eyes. “Mr. Tylinski, what do you think?”

“Mr. Faymon, the document has always been locked in the safe. As for my access to the archives room, you can check the surveillance feeds for it.” Cognizant that Curtis suspected him, Gabriel immediately defended his innocence. “After working for you for so many years, I’m well aware of where my boundaries lie.”

“I know.” Curtis tapped his finger on the document while exuding an icy aura. “Ocean International suspects that there’s a mole at our end. Thus, the project is now canceled.”

“Don’t we have the same reason to suspect them too?” Gabriel volunteered, “Mr. Faymon, I’ll definitely get to the bottom of this and not allow them to pin such an accusation on us.”

Curtis hummed in agreement.

Nevertheless, when he caught a glimpse of the invitation again, he felt a piercing pain in his head as he instructed Gabriel, “I’m heading to Xyperia on Friday, so book my flight tickets for me.”

Gabriel knew that Curtis was concerned about Theodore. “With Cillian there, I’m sure there’s nothing to be worried about.”

“Just get it done.”

“Yes, of course.”

No sooner had Gabriel emerged from Curtis’ office than it dawned upon him that something was not right. Whipping out his phone to check the calendar, he realized that next Friday was the twenty-fifth.

Oh? No wonder Mr. Faymon insists that I book him the flight ticket.

On the morning of the twenty-fifth, Curtis was sent to the airport where he would fly off to Xyperia.

Upon entering the terminal with his luggage in tow, he was greeted by a live telecast on the huge screen hung above his head. The camera angle was showing the interior of St. Paterlica’s Church and the guests who gradually arrived.

The sight triggered Curtis’ exasperation.

What’s the big deal about the wedding? Is it really necessary to reserve the airport’s screen for the event? That’s so lame.

After being ushered into the VIP lounge, Curtis heard his phone ring before he could take a seat.

Curtis slid to answer with a furrow of his brows. “I’m at the airport, preparing to fly to Xyperia.”

 

 

Chapter 514

“Curtis, from where did you learn of this medication?” Jeremy cut him off in a solemn tone. “Who’s taking it?”

Curtis recalled the list of medications he sent to Jeremy a while ago which he didn’t receive a reply on. Now that the latter was questioning him in a strange tone, the concerned Curtis asked, “Is there anything wrong with them?”

“Tell me who’s taking them first? Is it Rayna?”

“Mmm-hmm.”

Jeremy continued, “Tell her to get rid of them. Those medications have been confirmed five years ago to contain substances that are harmful to the mother and her fetus. That’s why they have long been banned internationally. I don’t know where she had gotten them from, but long-term use will cause the fetus to die in the mother’s womb.”

“Are you sure it’s a banned drug?” Curtis’ expression had grown extremely sullen. “She received the drugs from the hospital. If there’s something wrong with them, there’s no way the hospital would have dispensed it to her.”

Jeremy reminded him, “Curtis, there are all sorts of characters in a hospital. Since you don’t work there, how would you know they give the same drugs to all pregnant mothers?”

The gravity of the situation immediately dawned upon Curtis, after which, he strode out of the VIP lounge with a scowl on his face and a growing sense of dread.

Meanwhile, Rayna had changed into her bridal gown. With Kristie and Roxanne escorting her, she entered the car and headed for the church.

Despite feeling the urge to say something, neither Roxanne nor Kristie dared to do so.

Their car sped through the streets and arrived at St. Paterlica’s Church in half an hour.

Outside the church, the press had already set up camp on both sides of the red carpet in an orderly manner. With their cameras aimed at Rayna, they started clicking furiously the moment she alighted from the car, hoping to get the best shot of the bride.

Linda, who had arrived ahead of time, came up to receive her daughter.

As she stared at Rayna in her wedding gown, it finally dawned upon her that her daughter was all grown up and about to get married. “I’m sorry that I failed to take good care of you.”

“Mom.” Rayna gave her a look of resignation. “Can you not say such things on my wedding day?”

Linda nodded. “Fine, fine. I’ll stop.”

Holding Linda’s hands, Rayna walked on the red carpet in the direction of the church.

As she approached the building, anxiousness began to descend upon her previously calm mind, causing her to feel a little lost.

It’s my wedding day today. Unlike in the past when I did it to escape something, I’m marrying a man who loves and cherishes me. However, why does my heart feel empty still?

Upon looking up, Rayna realized that she had entered the church, where the chairs on both sides of the aisle were filled with friends and business partners. Even Sandy and Alfred were in attendance.

When Alfred’s eyes met Rayna’s, he flashed a gentle smile at her. Contained within it was a sense of warmth and a hint of regret.

Nevertheless, he knew there was nothing he could do about her not becoming his granddaughter-in- law.

It wasn’t until Rayna didn’t see Curtis that she let out a discreet sigh of relief. Locking gazes with Alfred, she returned his smile before allowing herself to be led up to the altar by Linda.

There, Jefferson was dressed in a white suit and looked dashing in it.

As he watched on with an affectionate look in his eyes, all he could see was Rayna.

Thereafter, Linda solemnly placed Rayna’s hand in his palm. “Her dad and I divorced a long time ago. Now that she’s getting married, only I can give away the bride. I hereby place her in your care and hope that you will cherish her always.”

“I definitely will.” Jefferson gave Rayna a longing look. “She is all I ever wanted.”

And now, we’re finally getting married.

After giving her daughter away, the tearful Linda gradually backed away from the altar.

Jefferson subsequently squeezed Rayna’s hand. “You’re beautiful, Belle.”

“I know.” Pursing her lips into a smile, Rayna reminded him, “The guests are looking, so don’t try anything funny.”

“Okay.”

Both of them got into place while holding each other’s hands.

With that, the pastor, standing before them, began to officiate the wedding.

Finally, he turned to look at Jefferson, “Mr. Jefferson Hamilton, are you willing to take Ms. Rayna Garland as your lawfully wedded wife? To love and cherish her, in sickness and in health.”

“I do,” Jefferson replied in a gentle yet firm tone while holding the hand of the woman he loved.

After that, the pastor turned toward Rayna. “Ms. Rayna Garland…”

Watching the couple at the altar and listening to the pastor’s words, Alfred couldn’t help but let out a deep sigh. “How did Curtis let such a wonderful girl slip through his hands?”

“Dad, stop sighing.” Sandy added, “If it isn’t meant to be between the two of them, there’s no point in forcing the matter.”

Deep down, she still resented Jefferson and had no intention of seeing him.

If it wasn’t because she was friends with Linda and Alfred insisted on attending the wedding, she would definitely not have shown up.

Alfred let out an exasperated snort. “Curtis is just too reserved for his own good. Once Jefferson learned of their breakup, he tried his very best to win her back. As for Curtis, he ended up pushing her into the arms of his rival.”

The problem with this grandson of mine is that he’s too aloof and never shows concern for anything that doesn’t benefit him. When it comes to matters of the heart, being too restrained will get him nothing.

Thinking of Curtis’ character elicited another deep sigh from Alfred. “Is he in the office again?”

“His assistant mentioned that he’s on an overseas business trip.”

“Nonsense, he must be trying to avoid the wedding!” Alfred spoke candidly. “He’s such a coward to go into hiding just because his ex-fiancée is marrying someone else!”

Sandy defended Curtis, “Dad, how can you say that about your own grandson? What if he really has something important to do?”

“Do you think I don’t know what he’s up to after spending thirty years with him?” The more he looked at the wedding couple at the altar, the angrier he became. “If he has any guts, he would be crashing this wedding right now!”

Sandy was stumped for words.

Back at the altar, the pastor was already asking Rayna, “Are you willing to take Mr. Jefferson Hamilton as your lawfully wedded husband?”

The guests fell silent as they waited with bated breath.

Closing her eyes to calm herself down, Rayna broke into a slight smile as she spoke. “I—”

“She isn’t willing!” A deep male voice pierces through the church to cut Rayna off.

Stunned, the curious guests turned toward the entrance in unison, only to be greeted by the appearance of a towering figure.

Recognizing the familiar voice, Alfred was filled with elation when he saw who it was. “He really did come to win her back!”

“Dad, you had better not get ahead of yourself,” Sandy whispered. “The wedding is being broadcasted live. This scene of him disrupting it will soon go viral!”

With that, she got to her feet intending to stop it.

However, Alfred quickly stopped her. “Just think about it. Your son is thirty years old, not twenty anymore.”

After struggling with herself, Sandy finally sat back down.

As for Rayna, she instantly knew who it was the moment she was interrupted. Jolted by the turn of events, she tightened her grip on Jefferson’s hand without turning around.

Striding down the aisle and up to the altar, Curtis was relieved that the ceremony wasn’t over yet.

Thank goodness I made it.

He ascended the altar and grabbed Rayna’s hand. “Rayna, come with me.”

Gasp!

All the guests were stunned.

Mr. Faymon is really aggressive! Not only did he crash the wedding but also demanded that the bride leave with him without any regard for the groom?

One of the guests muttered, “This is the first time I have witnessed someone crashing a wedding. On top of that, Mr. Faymon is the one doing so.”

“Me too.”

Even the cameraman filming the live telecast was shocked by the scene.

Staring blankly at the three persons at the altar, he didn’t know whether to turn off the camera or continue filming.

 

 

 

Chapter 515

Jefferson was very agile. The moment Curtis made a move, he immediately pulled Rayna behind him and stared at Curtis.

“Mr. Faymon, I’m more than happy to welcome you if you are here to attend our wedding.” Jefferson looked hostile as he was talking. “However, if you are here to cause trouble, then don’t blame me for defending her!”

Curtis calmed himself down and become more rational. “She is experiencing some issues after taking your labor suppressants. I need to take her to the hospital.”

“Then I should go with her as well. Mr. Faymon, please take a seat.”

Curtis knew that he was being too impulsive.

Even if Rayna’s labor suppressants had issues, he could have just sent him a message. Why would I show up at their wedding? What’s wrong with me?

His hands twitched. Just as he was about to leave the stage, he glanced at the woman standing behind Jefferson.

She was dressed in a pure white wedding gown and looked elegant and beautiful.

She lowered her head, and her veil covered her gorgeous face.

She stood very close to her groom and did not notice Curtis.

His eyes darkened. All of a sudden, he had a strong inclination to take her away with him.

Otherwise, he would regret it for the rest of his life.

He decided to follow his impulsiveness and removed his tie. Just as Jefferson was about to make a move, Curtis wrapped the tie around Jefferson’s hands, bent down, and scooped Rayna easily into his arms.

When she got lifted up suddenly, Rayna got a shock.

Seeing that Curtis was walking down the stage with her in his arms, she turned pale and started pushing him. “Curtis, what are you doing? It’s my wedding day today! Put me down now!”

“I know,” replied Curtis curtly. “But you need to go to the hospital.”

Rayna was at a loss for words.

Curtis was incredibly fast in his movement.

By the time Jefferson undid the tie and rushed down the stage, Curtis had already walked out of the church with his bride.

The wedding guests exchanged glances as they saw Jefferson running after Curtis and Rayna.

“Hahaha! He’s my grandson for sure!” Alfred was beyond ecstatic when he saw Curtis run off with the bride. “I knew that he will come to take Rayna away. He’s exactly like me!”

Sandy was speechless.

Hmph! Who was the one who kept scolding Curtis and calling him a coward?

Rayna was still struggling when she was being placed in the car. She was so furious that her voice was shaky when she talked. “Curtis, this wedding is being broadcast live. What’s going to happen to Faymon Group now?”

“I have already contacted the people controlling Twitter and the various media websites,” said Curtis calmly. “It’s not a big deal if we can’t put a blanket ban on the media. Faymon Group has encountered scandals in the past anyway.”

After another few attempts to break free, Rayna knew that it was futile. She then looked at him calmly and said, “Curtis, we aren’t children anymore. After what you have done just now, Faymon Group will suffer the greatest loss.”

Since that night she knelt down and begged him, she had already given up on him.

Curtis did not know what to say and struggled. “The labor suppressants that you have taken in the past have some issues. I need to take you to the hospital for a checkup.”

“What do you mean?” asked Rayna with a frown. “How do you know which labor suppressants I have taken?”

To that, Curtis replied, “Carl has shown me the picture of the medicine box before. He said he has collected it once on your behalf. He saw that you have finished all the medications you have at home, so he went to the hospital to get some more for you. Did you take any of the medicine that he has brought back for you?”

“I can’t remember.” Rayna shook her head. She was not lying. “Recently, I have been too busy.”

“Then let’s go to the hospital for a checkup.”

Rayna remembered lying to Curtis about the age of the fetus. She lied and claimed that the report belonged to someone else. If they went to the hospital, it would not be long before he found out that the babies were his.

“Stop the car!” shouted Rayna. “I’ll go on my own. There’s no need to trouble you.”

Curtis held her down. “There are so many cars on the road. Where do you intend to go? Or, is there something you are keeping from me?”

Rayna panicked instantly and sneered, “You think too much. I just don’t want to be recognized at the hospital later on. People will surely admonish me for ditching my groom and having an affair with you, Mr. Faymon!”

Curtis nearly choked on his saliva, so he said nothing. Instead, he instructed the driver to continue driving.

Very soon, they arrived at the hospital.

Curtis forced Rayna to go to the hospital. However, everyone was staring at her in curiosity while they were on the way to the obstetrics and gynecology department since she was still in her wedding gown.

After carrying her into the doctor’s office, Curtis informed the doctor, “There is something wrong with the labor suppressants that she has taken earlier. Please do a thorough checkup for her.”

Since it was not convenient for him to stay on, he left after giving his instruction.

Curtis gave Gabriel a call and got him to try to stop Jefferson from coming to the hospital.

After he was done with the phone call, he saw a nurse about to enter the consultation room. When he recalled the odd way Rayna behaved in the car earlier on, he stopped the nurse.

“Please check the condition and gestation age of the baby for me. Don’t let her know.”

After a thorough checkup, Rayna and her baby were found to be in a healthy condition. However, Rayna refused to have her report generated.

She even told the doctor that the man outside was not related to her and her baby and hoped that the doctor would not divulge any detail about her pregnancy.

In truth, she had no idea that the nurse who had gone out earlier had already told Curtis about everything.

Curtis did his calculation and confirmed that when they had their vacation in Jetroina the year before, it was then they did not take any precautions. As such, she got pregnant. The child was his.

In the past, he had his suspicions, but Rayna denied it. Now that he discovered that the baby was his, he was stunned and could not keep his cool.

This d*mn woman! How dare she lie to me and tell me that the child belongs to Jefferson!

If he had not been shrewd enough and asked the nurse to keep a tab on things, he would never find out the truth.

Curtis rubbed his temples. Before he could calm himself down, the door of the consultation room opened.

Out came Rayna, and she eyed him coldly. “Thank you for waiting, Mr. Faymon. Both the baby and I are fine. I still need to rush back for my wedding. You don’t have to worry about sending me.”

With that, she held her heavy gown and took a step.

Curtis immediately went toward her and carried her in his arms. Since she lost her balance, she had no choice but to put her arms around his shoulders.

“I told you I don’t need you to send me back. I can get a taxi,” Rayna protested. In her state of panic, she pushed his hands away and told him off, “My wedding gown is so heavy. If you drop me, the baby

will be injured even though it’s fine now!”

Curtis said nothing.

Rayna was getting annoyed. “Curtis, put me down!”

Curtis held on to her with a firm grip and strolled out of the hospital. He looked at her coldly and said through gritted teeth, “Rayna, you’re really something. I can’t believe it!”

His frosty stare scared the wits out of her. She was worried that he might have discovered something.

Then again, he did not go into the doctor’s office just now.

“W-What do you mean?” Rayna pretended to be composed and continued, “If you refuse to put me down, I’ll sue you for sexual harassment!”

“I’m carrying the mother of my child. Who dares to sue me?”

Rayna stared at him in disbelief. “How did you find out? You didn’t…”

Curtis glanced at her in anger and frustration. “That’s why I feel that the IQ of our child shouldn’t take after you. You are so stupid!”

Rayna was gobsmacked.

It took her a while before she regained her composure and decided not to argue with him. “So what if you know the truth? Curtis, we broke up a long time ago. Why does it matter?”

“It matters because the child is mine,” said Curtis unhappily. “I will not allow my child to acknowledge another man as his father!”

“I don’t mind!”

 

 

Chapter 516

He took a deep breath and said, “Rayna, I know well of your personality. Both of us need to calm down.”

Rayna snapped, “I am calm. Can’t you let me get married peacefully and give birth to my children someplace? After I deliver these babies, I’d rather them address Jefferson as their daddy.”

Curtis was stumped.

An urge to strangle Rayna washed over him.

Grimacing in silence, he left the hotel while carrying her in his arms. Rayna continued to struggle in his embrace. She panicked when she was reminded that the wedding ceremony would be on live broadcast and reporters would be swarming the hospital entrance.

“Curtis, put me down! There could be reporters outside. You may not care about your reputation, but I do!”

“No one will dare to take a picture of us.”

Seeing she was about to be carried out of the hospital, Rayna anxiously buried her face in his arms. Her heart raced as she thought fearfully about how the media would falsely publish articles about her.

However, when she secretly looked up, she noticed there weren’t any reporters outside the hospital, and only a car was stopped on the roadside.

Rayna was rendered speechless. Only such a short time has passed. How efficient are his subordinates?

After he carried her into the car, Rayna uttered while wearing an icy expression, “Can you stop messing around? I’m in a hurry to get married!”

Curtis ignored her and ordered the driver to bring them back to the Faymon residence.

Rayna’s expression grew darker when she heard that. She was on the verge of breaking down. “Curtis, can you please let me go? Do you really think these children are related to you simply because you contributed a sperm?”

Curtis kept his temper in check and didn’t mind her remark. He merely glanced at her coldly.

“Curtis, I’m going to sue you for kidnapping me! Stop the car. I want to get out! Do you hear me, Curtis? Quit staying silent and let go of me!”

Regardless of how she struggled or scolded him, Curtis remained indifferent and held on to her.

In the end, Rayna got tired of chiding him.

When they reached the Faymon residence, Curtis carried her out of the vehicle and entered the house after the housekeeper opened the door.

Alfred and Sandy had returned. Alfred had even gathered a group of housekeepers, cheerfully describing to them how domineering and heroic Curtis had acted by going to the church to win back Rayna during her wedding.

When he turned around and saw Curtis carrying Rayna into the house, Alfred immediately got up from the couch.

“You’re back?”

“Help me, Old Mr. Faymon!” Rayna cried for help when she saw Alfred. “Mr. Faymon is abducting me!”

Alfred’s heart softened. He cleared his throat and pretended to be mad. “What are you doing, Curtis? How could you treat Rayna like this? Hurry up and put her down, or I won’t forgive you!”

“She’s pregnant with a triplet.” After saying that, Curtis carried Rayna upstairs.

Alfred and Sandy were stunned. They stood in a daze for a long while.

“Did you hear what Curtis just said?” Alfred turned to look at Sandy in shock. Even his voice trembled as he spoke. “R-Rayna is pregnant, not to mention she’s carrying a triplet?”

Sandy nodded blankly. “I-I think so.”

“Oh my goodness!” Alfred’s heart pounded heavily and rapidly as he almost passed out in utter delight.

“Ah, Dad!” Sandy hurriedly stepped forward to support him.

After entering the study, Curtis locked the door behind him and took out his phone to make a call. “Come to the Faymon residence.”

Right after he put Rayna down, she impatiently rushed to open the door.

Unfortunately, Curtis was standing in front of the door, and he wouldn’t budge no matter how forcefully she pushed him. She glared at him while gritting her teeth. “There’s no meaning to this. Get out of my way, Curtis!”

“Let’s talk, Rayna.”

Since they were back home, Curtis wasn’t worried Rayna would escape. He undid the buttons of his shirt with one hand to breathe better while asking her, “You saw the news spread by the media about my marriage with Wendella previously, didn’t you?”

“How is that my problem? Move aside!”

Curtis understood Rayna too well. He knew she cared about the news just by observing the slight changes in her expression. It’ll be easy for me to explain myself if she still cares.

He elaborated patiently, “She deliberately let out that information and hired some media members to spread the news. At that time, I was truly infuriated by you and thought these children belonged to Jefferson, so I allowed Wendella to do as she pleased.

“I’m not in any relationship with her. We’re only putting on a facade of being together because I need her father’s connections. You’re also well aware of Theodore’s matter. I don’t have any other choice because it is tough to deal with the Xavier and Young families.”

Rayna remained unfazed even after listening to his account. “These things happened so long ago. I don’t need you to explain anything to me. There’s no need for you to do this.”

“There is. I know there are some misunderstandings between us, so I must clarify things with you. After Vivi suffered the miscarriage, I discussed terms with her and compensated her monetarily. I thought that would solve the problem, but she targeted you while I was abroad. Also, I went overseas to deal with Theodore’s matter. I wasn’t allowed to bring a phone there, so I wasn’t immediately informed when you were in trouble. That was undoubtedly my mistake for not preparing a backup number at the company.”

“I said that’s not important anymore. I don’t need your explanation,” Rayna suddenly yelled at him hysterically. Anguish filled her chest when she was reminded of the sufferings she had gone through previously. Tears brimmed in her eyes, and she couldn’t stop herself from crying. “Stop explaining. I don’t want to listen to these. I really don’t.”

She was always met with disappointments whenever she harbored hope. If he genuinely cares about me, why is he always missing when I need him? Does he know how upset and disheartened I was at that time?

Curtis felt heart-wrenching pain, looking at the tears streaming down Rayna’s cheeks. He pulled her into his embrace and said, “I’m sorry. I haven’t been calm enough recently and have allowed so many misunderstandings to happen between us. The unfortunate incidents that befell Theodore and Jasmine took me by surprise. I wasn’t able to handle the matters inside and outside the country well. Not only was I swamped, but I also had to put my guard up against the Xavier family.”

“Stop talking.” Tears wet his shirt as Rayna whimpered. “I’m telling you not to speak further.”

I’m about to begin a new life, so why does he have to disturb me now? I don’t need this late apology from him!

“If I don’t tell you, you’ll never know what I’m doing every day or if I care about you.” He held her tightly while smelling her unique scent, prompting a sense of serenity to creep into his heart. “I suppose Gabriel told you about what happened to Jasmine? She’s now in a vegetative state. The doctor said she might wake up or remain in that condition for the rest of her life.”

Sensing her shivering body, he stroked her back to comfort her. “We didn’t dare to let the doctor inform Theodore about this terrible outcome. Unexpectedly, something bad happened to Theodore as well afterward. I was beside Theodore when he argued with Old Mr. Xavier. You know, when Theodore aimed the gun at his heart and pulled the trigger, my body turned cold, and I immediately leaped forward…”

Curtis closed his eyes as he couldn’t bring himself to replay that scene in his head.

At that time, he had assumed Theodore’s father scolding Theodore would be the worst-case scenario, and they would be able to return to the country successfully afterward. Curtis never anticipated Barnaby to provoke Theodore.

Curtis had known Theodore for so many years and had never thought the latter would end his own life with a gun.

Curtis continued, “We hurriedly sent Theodore to the hospital and waited outside the operating room for two hours. The doctor told us Theodore would’ve died on the spot if the bullet’s trajectory weren’t off course. My mind was blank when I stayed outside the ward that day. I even blamed Theodore for losing his composure and wondered why he had to argue with Old Mr. Xavier.”

 

 

Chapter 517

Here, Curtis let out a deep sigh. “But when I calmed down, I realized Theodore’s not wrong. The person he loved was knocked over by someone his biological mother employed. And now, Jasmine’s still unconscious in the hospital. It’s only right that he wanted to seek justice for his lover.

“That’s why I hurried over when I returned to the country and found out you had brought Selena to the hospital. I feared Mrs. Xavier would do something to you, and that you’d end up in a worse state than Jasmine.”

“What are you going to do about Carl, then?” Rayna finally spoke. “How are you going to tell him about his parents and the fact that another woman’s pregnant with his father’s child?”

“You don’t have to worry about that. The doctor assigned to Selena is arranged by Jeremy. The child won’t be born into this world,” Curtis said.

A wave of relief washed over Rayna.

She had been constantly worried about that matter, but she could not find a solution for it.

However, a grim look returned to Rayna’s face almost instantly as she pushed Curtis away. “You’re done talking, right? Move aside, then. I want to go out.”

“Rayna, do you still not understand after everything I’ve said?” Curtis remained standing in front of the door, showing no signs of wanting to let her leave. “Don’t you know what’s in my mind?”

To his dismay, Rayna said calmly, “I don’t want to. All I know is that I’m getting married today, and my husband’s surname is Hamilton.”

Her words infuriated Curtis. He grabbed her hand and pinned her against the door. “Rayna, can’t you talk to me properly? Must you really make me angry?”

“I am calm, and I know what I’m saying.” Rayna turned her face away to avoid looking at him. “That’s your friend. It’s only right that you’re so worried. You don’t have to explain the situation to a stranger like me.”

“Rayna”—Curtis’ tone turned grim—“Look at me.”

After a moment of silence, he continued, “If you don’t, that means you’re feeling guilty.”

His words successfully elicited a reaction from Rayna. She turned around and met his eyes. “Why should I feel guilty?”

Curtis’ eyes bored into hers. “Look in my eyes and tell me you really love Jefferson. Tell me you married him out of love, not out of revenge on me.”

His sharp gaze made her heart clench and her eyelashes quiver.

Suppressing the emotions surging in her heart, she gritted her teeth and said fiercely, “Yes. I love him. That’s why I’m marrying—”

Before she could even finish, Curtis cupped her face and sealed her lips with a fervent kiss, stopping her from saying things that would anger him.

No matter how hard Rayna pounded his chest, Curtis did not budge. It was not until she was panting from the kiss that he let go of her lips and stared fixedly at her. “Have you calmed down now?”

“Y-You…” Rayna was so furious that she breathed heavily, her chest rising and falling as she took breaths that were filled with his scent.

Curtis rubbed a finger on her face. “Rayna, you can’t fool anyone with your gaze. I’ve known you for a long time. I know what kinds of faces you make when you lie.”

Rayna pursed her lips, looking stubborn and calm. “So what? What’s that supposed to mean? We’re not related. I have the freedom to choose whoever I want to marry. Even if I don’t love him now, that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t give myself a chance. Let’s just leave things this way, Curtis. This will benefit both of us.” Rayna let go of his arm while keeping a rein on her emotions. “We can still be friends, and our companies can still collaborate with each other.”

Curtis was exasperated. “You’re carrying my child, yet you’re saying you want to only be friends with me. Rayna, I didn’t groom you just to be friends with you.”

Rayna yelled, “Then what do you want from me? I will gladly return all my skills to you if that’s possible. No. It’ll be better if I never met you in the first place.”

I never would’ve gone to the bar if I had known it would change my life forever.

“Rayna…”

Rayna dodged his hand and inched backward until her back was plastered tightly against the door. “I will think of the past every night when I sleep. I can’t forget it no matter what I do. It’s so suffocating. I’m begging you, Curtis. Please just leave things the way it is.” Rayna hung her head as hot tears fell onto the carpet. “Yes. I admit I loved you. But even if I still have a special place for you in my heart, that doesn’t mean anything. You hated me over Kristie’s matter. Then you told my brother about Arnaud’s whereabouts and let him travel to Yartran alone, which killed him. Aren’t you done taking revenge on me?”

Curtis knitted his brows. “How did you know about it?”

Rayna inhaled sharply to calm herself down. “It’s pointless asking all that now. My brother has already paid you with his life. We don’t owe you anything now.”

“Rayna, listen to me.” Curtis grabbed her shoulder with force to make her look at him. “I admit it. I sent James to Yartran, but that’s because he has great marksmanship, which makes it easy for him to kill Arnaud. But I’m not that cruel, and James didn’t die. He—”

“Enough!” Rayna interrupted. Finally, she broke down. “I’ve already received his ashes. If he’s not dead, then where is he? Tell me!”

Just then, someone knocked on the door.

Curtis’ expression finally relaxed, and he pulled Rayna aside. “He’s here.”

He went to open the door.

Standing by the door was a tall man who was in his fifties. There was also a long and fearsome scar on his neck.

It was none other than the man who had been taking care of Kristie—Samson.

Curtis invited him in and said in exhaustion, “Your sister thought you were dead and almost hit me.”

“What are you talking about?” Rayna glanced at the middle-aged man and then at Curtis. “Curtis, I’m not mad to the point that my eyesight’s affected. I know what my brother looks like!”

Suddenly, the middle-aged man reached up to his neck and tore the horrific scar from his skin.

It turned out there was a tiny voice changer hidden underneath it.

After he removed the voice changer, he said, “Rayna, it’s really me. I’m not dead.”

“J-James?” Rayna recognized her brother’s voice. However, she was at a loss when she stared at his face. “Is it really you? But—”

James explained, “When I went to Yartran for the second time, Mr. Faymon told me to fake my death in order to make Arnaud drop his guard. I purposely discarded the emerald pendant on the road. Mr. Faymon found someone who resembled me in terms of size, changed his facial features, and made him die on my behalf. After that, I followed Mr. Faymon’s men and went to Mr. York’s. Mr. York gave me a pill, which made me look like this.” James touched his face, which felt rather rough. “I couldn’t get used to it in the beginning, but I managed to calm down. I’m fine as long as I don’t look into the mirror.”

Seeing it was really her brother, Rayna threw herself at him and hugged him tightly. “You gave me such a fright! Why didn’t you tell me? I thought you were dead! I was on the verge of breaking down…” she cried out.

Curtis could not bring himself to see them hugging so tightly. He stepped forward and pulled Rayna away. “Dorothy’s father is terribly influential in Jetroina. It’s almost impossible to get rid of him once he works with Arnaud. That’s why I sent James over. I told him not to tell you about it in case it might make you worry. Besides, it’s more convincing if fewer people knew about it.”

“Oh, so now you’re talking about it, huh?” Rayna pounded Curtis’ chest with tears streaming down her cheeks. “Do you have any idea how smart Arnaud is? What if your plan fails?”

 

 

Chapter 518

The more she spoke, the harder she sobbed. “Did you know how devastated I was when I thought James was dead? I didn’t even know how to tell my mom about it. You’re too much, Curtis!”

“You’re right. You’re right,” Curtis admitted. “Stop crying. It’s not good to keep crying when you’re pregnant. Besides, I know the limit to things. I won’t do it if I’m not confident about it.”

Rayna swatted his hand away. “You’ll only make me worry by not telling me such a major matter!”

Curtis sighed and asked helplessly, “Do you think I don’t know what your character is like? You’re emotional and impulsive, and you never gave me a chance to talk to you properly. You were constantly mad at me.”

He then asked, “Rayna, did you think I knew about your pregnancy back in Summerbank? Was that why you thought I got someone to add those herbs to the duck stew and gave it to you to make you have a miscarriage?”

Rayna did not want to recall the incidents from the past. “It’s pointless talking about that now.”

“It’s not. Just tell me. Is that what you thought? Did you think I didn’t want the baby?” Curtis stared at her sternly.

The atmosphere turned tense in an instant.

James could not help but pipe up, “Uh… Since you two have something to discuss, I shall take my leave first.”

“No!” Rayna hastily grabbed him. “It took so long for me to find out you’re still alive. Don’t leave. We’ll go home together. You’ve been missing for so long that Mom’s been asking where you’ve been.”

Curtis forcefully pulled her away. “He will, but let’s settle this between us first.”

He shot James a look.

James nodded and said to Rayna before leaving, “Rayna, Mr. Faymon treats me really well. Don’t blame him for what happened.”

After James left, Curtis locked the door from the inside in case Rayna escaped without him realizing it.

“Rayna, answer the question I asked just now.”

“We have nothing to talk about. Move over, Curtis.” Rayna scowled.

Just as Curtis was about to say something, he noticed Rayna was leaning on one side and frowning as if she was feeling uncomfortable. Recalling the moment he hugged her earlier, he realized she was wearing high heels.

Perhaps her feet ache from standing too long in heels.

He leaned over, picked her up, and went straight to the study before placing her on a chair.

Rayna wriggled. “What are you doing?”

“Move again and I’ll fix you on the chair with duct tape.” Shooting her a glare, Curtis lifted the hem of her skirt and placed her legs on his thighs.

As he removed the high heels, he heard her inhale sharply. Clearly, she was hurting a lot. He could not help but chide, “Why force it if it doesn’t fit? Are you going to learn the lesson only when your legs are paralyzed?”

“It’s none of your business! I’m going to wear it even if it doesn’t fit!” With her soles locked in his hands, Rayna felt a rush of heat flow through her legs. She tried her best to pull her legs out of his grasp. “Let

go of me, Curtis.”

Those heels must’ve rubbed against her soles really badly. Seeing the pink skin on her legs, especially her toes, which were incredibly red, he gently massaged them while feeling utterly worried.

Unable to retract her legs, Rayna could only glower at him and sulk.

Although Curtis was not a professional, her legs hurt less after the massage.

When he saw Rayna was no longer frowning, he asked seriously, “If you don’t answer my question, I’ll keep asking until you do, and only then will I release you.”

Seeing how persistent he was, Rayna finally admitted, “Fine! Yes, that’s exactly what I thought. After returning to Norwal City, I asked around and found that such herbs are usually excluded from duck stews unless the guest asks for it.”

“So, I was right.” Curtis could only let out a helpless sigh upon realizing his suspicion was right.

However, the more he thought about it, the more he thought something was amiss. Why did she treat me so coldly during the time she rushed back to Norwal City when something happened to Vivi? And why was she so agitated at the hospital that day?

Thinking back to the time when she had a shoot at Summerbank, he realized it was his actions and how he had given her all that food that made her misunderstand everything. No wonder she suspects I knew of her pregnancy and that I was the one behind the duck stew incident. I never knew the misunderstanding between us was so severe.

Curtis then said, “You don’t believe it when I said you’re a presumptuous woman who overthinks. I wouldn’t have known about your pregnancy if Vivi hadn’t told me. When I found out Vivi had a miscarriage, I sent someone to look into it. There was nothing. All I knew was that those herbs were

more expensive, including the duck stew. I just wanted to order a more high-quality duck stew. I never considered it so much. Why would I ask someone to send such a thing over if I knew you were pregnant?”

Rayna did not respond. She merely pursed her lips and eyed him suspiciously.

Curtis knew she still did not trust him. “When you rushed back to Norwal City, I only thought it was because you had a lot to do at your company. That’s why I didn’t think much about it. Then Cillian called me. When I heard about what happened to Jasmine, I couldn’t go to you. I went to Xyperia instead for fear that things would become more chaotic there.”

Rayna could not hold back her words anymore. She questioned him, “Really? It wasn’t your doing? Didn’t you suspect anything when you saw my bulging belly on the plane to Summerbank?”

“No. I just thought you had much to eat and that your stomach was bloated.”

Still unwilling to believe him, Rayna commented, “You’re smart. Surely you already knew I was pregnant, and you didn’t want me to keep the baby. Otherwise, why didn’t you explain it to me when it happened? Why now?”

Curtis’ head hurt, for it was too mentally taxing to talk to her. “I’m smart, but I’m not a gynecologist. I would be elated if I knew you were pregnant. Why would I want you to abort them? Back then, many things were also happening in Xyperia apart from yours. Besides, I only realized something was off after analyzing the situation. That’s why I went to the hospital to look for you the moment I came back from Xyperia, wanting to bring you to get an examination before talking about it. But what did you do? You told me the child wasn’t mine. Tell me. How was I supposed to stay calm after hearing that?”

Rayna was taken aback after hearing the truth from him.

As it turned out, not only Curtis did not know about her pregnancy, but he also had no intention of harming the child. Instead, she was the one who had completely misunderstood the situation the entire time.

Even so, knowing all that was pointless.

It was too late.

Rayna pursed her lips and said calmly, “I misunderstood you, but the truth is not important anymore. Since we’ve broken up, I’ll take care of the child.”

She pushed him away and walked off barefooted.

Immediately, Curtis blocked her path, looking gloomy and exasperated. “Where are you trying to go in such a state?”

“To get married. My husband’s still waiting for me at the church.” Rayna walked around him.

Curtis blocked her off again. “Oh, I dare you to. The second you get out there, I’ll get someone to publish news about you bearing my child. I’d like to see how you’re going to work after that.”

“You—” Rayna glared at him. “You’re really shameless!”

“I know you too well, Rayna. I need to be reasonably shameless when it comes to dealing with you.”

 

 

Chapter 519

Rayna was speechless, and just as she was racking her brain to come up with something to curse at him, her body was lifted up into the air.

The moment she realized Curtis had carried her again, her expression darkened. “Curtis, stop carrying me again and again! I can walk on my own!”

“The floor is cold, so I’ll carry you down and get the housekeeper to bring house slippers for you,” he nonchalantly said.

Then, with his knee against the wall, he easily opened the door and brought Rayna out.

“I don’t need you to carry me! Let go of me! Curtis Faymon, don’t be shameless! I don’t need you doing anything for me!”

No matter what curses she spewed, the man remained unperturbed. Livid, Rayna bit his shoulder.

Yet, instead of hearing a cry of pain from Curtis, she heard someone trying to hold back their laughter.

At that, Rayna lifted her head and found out that they were already downstairs. Alfred was standing a distance away, watching her every move. He was holding back his laughter as he looked at them with loving eyes.

A wave of awkwardness crashed into Rayna, and she pinched Curtis hard. “You’re shameless!”

“I did remind you. You just didn’t hear me.”

“Remind me? When did you even do that?”

The two of them were so close to each other, so there was no way she would not have heard him.

He didn’t say anything at all!

“Belle, how can you always ask Mr. Faymon to carry you?” came Linda’s voice. When she turned around, she saw that her mother was there too.

Rayna froze. “Mom, why are you here?”

“Xandra invited me here for a meal,” Linda answered. “Hurry up and come down. Everyone’s watching!”

Rayna shot Curtis a look. “He’s the one who insisted on carrying me!”

“It’s fine, Ms. Linda. She’s not heavy.” Curtis smiled at Linda.

Only after the housekeeper brought the cotton house slippers over did Curtis finally set her down.

The second Rayna put on the slippers, she hastily towed her mother along with her and put a distance between him and her.

Still smiling, Alfred said, “Rayna, are you hungry? Why don’t you eat with me before leaving? It’s been a long while since we’ve seen each other.”

Alfred was always nice to Rayna. Moreover, he was a soft-spoken elderly with weaker health, so Rayna found herself unable to reject him—she ended up agreeing to his request.

While eating, Alfred kept taking more and more food for Rayna. Once in a while, he would ask her about Glory and praise her for being capable.

He also kept taking food for Linda, saying, “You should eat more, Ms. Linda. You must have had a tough time taking care of Rayna all these years.”

“You’re too kind,” Linda exclaimed. “You’re older than me, so please just call me by my name. Please don’t be so formal with me, or else I’d be too frightened to come again!”

“Of course, of course.” Alfred nodded and smiled. “It’s as if you’re Xandra’s real sister. This is truly fated to be. Look at how the kids are together again.”

He then turned to Rayna and beamed at the young woman. “Rayna, you’re pregnant with triplets now. I’m sure it’s hard for you too.”

Alfred had just been ruminating about how gutsy his grandson was to make a fuss at the wedding, but when he found out that Rayna was pregnant, he was so excited he nearly had a heart attack.

He thought his grandson was snatching a wife back, but as it turned out, Curtis was snatching three babies back too.

Meanwhile, Rayna could not bring herself to say those cruel words to Alfred.

But she was devastated. She did not want to have any connections with Curtis anymore.

Thus, she steeled herself and said, “Old Mr. Faymon, I’ve already broken up with Mr. Faymon. I want to raise the kids myself.”

Alfred was a witty man, and he showed none of the emotions he felt on his face. All he said was, “It’s good that you want to raise the kids yourself, but you’re currently managing a few companies. You’re busy, and I’m afraid that you might overwork yourself.”

Before she could say anything in response, he continued, “Yes, it’s true that you’ve separated from Curtis, but we’re still friends, right? Look at how close your mother is to Xandra. It won’t be too much if you call Xandra your godmother, right?”

“Old Mr. Faymon, what are you trying to say?”

Alfred quickly said, “What I mean is that, since Xandra can be considered your godmother, it’ll be nothing unusual for her to take care of you. So, do move into the Faymon residence. Of course, we won’t stick our noses into your work.”

Rayna was silent for a while.

If not for her quick wit, she would have stepped right into Alfred’s trap.

Moving into the Faymon residence means acknowledging my relationship with Curtis. If someone finds out about this and takes photos of me coming in and out of the house, I’ll never be able to clear my name.

“That’s right. Rayna, do move in,” Sandy gently prompted. “You have three babies in you right now. You’re having it much more difficult than other pregnant women. Your godmother’s heart aches for you, and she wishes to take care of you too. It’s fine even if you can’t be in a relationship with Curtis, but our feelings are still genuine, right?”

“I’m fine,” Rayna rejected. “I have a house, and I can hire a housekeeper or move to my mother’s place if I’m too busy. I won’t be used to staying here. Thank you for your offer, however.”

All of a sudden, Alfred coughed twice loudly and paled.

“Dad, what’s wrong?” Sandy hastily walked over to rub his back. “Is it your heart?”

Alfred nodded.

Sandy quickly asked the housekeeper to bring the medication over for him.

It was only after taking the medicine did the colors on Alfred’s face returned.

He then sighed. “I’m old now, and my health is declining. I have to take so many pills every day… I wonder how long I have left.”

Rayna felt bad when she took in the elderly man’s pale complexion. “Don’t overthink it. Medicine is much more advanced now. Focus on the treatment, and you’ll surely live a long life.”

Alfred waved dismissively. “I’m just old and much weaker. Well, to be honest with you, I’m not afraid of death. I’ve lived through decades of life, and I’m done with it. But I feel bad about how there are so few children in the Faymon family. I’m sure you know this too. My other siblings… Huh, Curtis is my only grandson. What use is his brain if the Faymon family ends up ceasing to exist?”

Alfred let out a deep sigh again. “I wish there were more people in the Faymon family. Even if we can’t maintain our wealth for over three generations, at the very least, we won’t end up disappearing from history.”

Even a fool would be able to understand what Alfred was trying to say.

Nevertheless, the old and frail man made Rayna’s determination waver.

Julian, who had died for her, was technically part of the Faymon family as well.

The memories only hurt Rayna when she recalled them.

Closing her eyes, she said to Alfred, “I’m sorry, but I won’t move into the Faymon residence. However… When I give birth to the babies, I’ll give two of them to the Faymon family while keeping one for myself. Old Mr. Faymon, this is the most I can do. Please don’t force me anymore.”

Alfred drew his white brows together. Right as he was about to part his lips and say more, the silent Curtis enunciated, “Sure, you can have the kid. We’ll sign an agreement. You’re not allowed to marry before the kids turn three. Otherwise, you’ll have to forfeit the last child to the Faymon family as well.”

Rayna nearly slammed the table in anger as she shot to her feet.

Tamping her anger down with much difficulty, she squeezed out, “Mr. Faymon, be reasonable. The kids are all mine, and I’ve already relented much by giving two of them to the Faymon family.”

“I’m being reasonable with you. I just want you to sign an agreement.”

“Agreement my *ss! You’re just putting limitations on my life!”

“Rayna, kids need the accompaniment of their parents when they’re young,” Curtis said. “I don’t want you to marry so early and neglect my kid because you have a husband.”

“You’re too much, Curtis Faymon!” Rayna roared. “All you did was contribute a few sperms, so learn to be satisfied to have gotten two kids for free! Why must you take all my children from me?”

 

 

Chapter 520

Curtis looked calm in contrast to the woman’s fury. He even said, “My sperms are of the best quality. Another man might not be able to let you get pregnant with triplets. If you want the kid, you’ll have to accept my term.”

“Mom!” Rayna whipped her head toward her mother. “Are you not going to help me out?”

“I-I don’t have anything to say to this.” Linda was surprised to hear Rayna call out for her. Cautiously, she said, “I think Mr. Faymon is right…”

“Right? You call this right? He’s guilt-tripping me!”

Rayna was shaking from fury when she realized that even her mother was not taking her side. In the next second, she shoved her chair away and stormed outside.

“Ms. Linda, please continue with your meal.” With that said, Curtis hurried after her.

Right as Rayna reached the garden, Curtis, who caught up with her, grabbed her hand tightly.

“Are you going back? I’ll send you home.”

“I don’t need that!” Rayna bellowed. “Let go of me!”

Yet, Curtis brought her to the open-air parking lot and shoved her into the car as if he could not hear her.

After getting into the driver’s seat, he was greeted by the sight of Rayna’s angry expression. At that, he let out a silent chuckle before leaning over to buckle her safety belt for her.

When he pulled the safety belt past her stomach, he saw a slight bump in her stomach.

Then, he tugged on the safety belt to check its elasticity to make sure that it would not press too much against her stomach.

As he started the car, he asked, “Back to the condominium?”

Rayna turned her head toward the window and ignored him.

He slowly drove out of the Faymon residence as both continued to stay silent.

When Curtis noticed that the air conditioner was directed at Rayna, he reached over to push the flaps up and increased the temperature.

Once Rayna realized that the inside of the car had gotten hotter, she grimaced and pushed the flap back down to direct the breeze at herself.

“Stop messing with it.” Curtis pushed it back up.

“Who’s messing with you? I’m feeling hot.” Rayna huffed and redirected the air conditioner at herself. “If you don’t want me to be in your car, stop the car and let me off.”

“You’ll be feeling unwell later if you have the air conditioner directed at you,” he said.

Right as Rayna was about to adjust it again, he shot an icy look at her, warning her that she was risking another round of chiding from him if she were to keep doing that.

Rayna scowled and looked back out of the window.

Curtis then drove into the underground garage before taking the elevator to Good Times Restaurant on the second floor with Rayna.

As Rayna was in a wedding dress, the second they stepped out of the elevator, the other patrons in the restaurant turned to look at them.

“Mr. Faymon,” the server greeted, only giving Rayna a brief glance with a polite smile. “It has been a while since your last visit. We have a room available right now, so please let me lead you there.”

Curtis hummed quietly in response and brought Rayna there.

“Why did you take me here?” she uttered in a low voice, still angry. “I don’t want to eat. I want to go back.”

She, too, had realized that her wedding dress was attracting a lot of unwanted attention.

However, Curtis did not let go of her. Instead, he tightened his grip and said, “I realized you weren’t eating much at home, so I brought you here to eat more.”

“That is your home. Not mine!”

“I never said it was your home either.” Curtis turned to glimpse at her. “Ms. Garland, are you overthinking this?”

Rayna stiffened. Once she realized what the conversation had been, she clamped her mouth shut.

The two of them had been fighting since morning, and she was tired. No matter how long she fought with him, the man would continue to do as he pleased.

Hence, once she took the menu, she began ordering everything she set her eyes on.

Less than half an hour later, all the dishes she ordered were served.

Rayna had not eaten anything for the entire day, so she was indeed hungry. Furthermore, the food at Good Times Restaurant was good, so she never once paused her meal.

“Slow down,” Curtis said, fearing that she would choke on her food before pushing the glass of grape juice toward her. “No one’s going to kick you out of here anytime soon.”

Rayna lifted her head to glance at him, but as she had stuffed her mouth full of food, her words were muffled.

“You… Don’t talk…”

Curtis chuckled despite himself. “All right, all right. I won’t say anything anymore.”

Rayna then bit into the meat, but before she could swallow, nausea rushed up her throat.

Her face turned ashen.

Once she found the trash can, she vomited the food she just ate back out.

“What’s the matter?” Curtis hurried over to her, his face almost as pale as hers. “Did you eat too much?”

Rayna took the glass he handed to her and drank half of the water inside, but she still felt uncomfortable after that. “This is frustrating. My pregnancy symptoms are getting worse. I feel like vomiting every time I eat something.”

Why do other pregnant women eat so much during their pregnancies while I puke everything I eat?

Curtis’ heart ached when he heard that.

He knew that she had been having a rough time since she had gotten pregnant, but this was the first time he saw it with his own eyes.

There were no colors on Rayna’s face at all, and she looked exhausted.

“Do you want some fruits?” Curtis softly asked. “I’ll ask them to send some in here.”

“I can’t eat them.” Rayna was already feeling ill, and her mood only took a turn for the worse at the sight of the origin of her frustrations. “Curtis, you b*stard, why didn’t you take any safety precautions back then?”

The longer the pregnancy went on, the longer she had to endure the troubles and symptoms that came with the babies. Her excitement for them was gone.

I hate him so much!

Curtis cleared his throat awkwardly. “I asked you about it back then, but you said to do whatever I like…”

“Bullsh*t!” Rayna cursed. “How can I possibly have heard what you said back then?”

Knowing that she was feeling terrible, Curtis softened his voice even more and said, “Okay, okay, this is all my fault. Have more of this tomato soup. It’s spicy, so I doubt you’ll vomit after having it.”

However, she only had two mouthfuls before her stomach churned again. Annoyed, she threw her spoon on the table.

When she saw that Curtis was still beside her, she scowled and snapped, “Stop sitting here and go somewhere further. It’s annoying to see you here.”

Despite her angry snarling, Curtis had to keep his temper in check. Thus, he moved to the seat opposite hers in resignation.

In the end, all the dishes on the table turned cold while Rayna only drank half a bowl of tomato soup.

Her stomach simply disagreed with everything.

After the meal, Curtis drove Rayna back.

The cool breeze helped take away some of Rayna’s frustrations, and she calmed down.

In a quiet voice, she said, “Curtis, you don’t need to humble yourself to be this nice to me. I wasn’t joking when I said we were over.”

“I know.” Curtis hummed in agreement. “I’m not doing this on purpose. You have a fiery temper because you’re pregnant. Any friend—or even a stranger—would be more accommodating toward you too.”

“So you’re telling me that I’m overthinking this and that I’m hoping to get back together with you?”

“Is that what you think?”

Rayna was rendered speechless from the overwhelming fury. It took her a while before she could squeeze out, “You have such a silver tongue, Curtis Faymon! I can never win against you, can I?”

Curtis chuckled. “I wasn’t trying to do anything to you.”

Rayna frowned and ignored him.

He soon drove into the residential area. When they drove toward the condominium, Rayna spotted Jefferson, who was sitting at the staircase.

He was still wearing his suit, but he had a tired look and a phone in his left hand. It seemed like he was on a call with someone.

Rayna had been so preoccupied with fighting with Curtis that she had nearly forgotten about Jefferson.

Guilt swelled in her chest when she figured out that he had come here to wait for her.

Everyone must be laughing at Jefferson when Curtis took me, his bride, away at his wedding.

Once the car came to a stop, Rayna unbuckled her safety belt and hastily went down the car.

“Jefferson,” she cried out.

Jefferson lifted his head. The second he saw Rayna, his eyes lit up. He hung up his call and rushed toward her.

But before he could touch her, Curtis grabbed his hand.