Ch. 531..540

Chapter 531

He was fed up with the intense pain in his heart that woke him up at night, leaving him unable to breathe. Seeing the vacant space in his room only made him even more distressed.

Wyatt closed his eyes and waited for the plane to fly.

Stella was among the other passengers boarding the plane, making their way up the aisle to locate their seats.

She happened to spot Wyatt when she was trying to find her seat.

“Mr. Lopez,” Stella greeted him with a warm smile. “Are you going to Yartran on a business trip, too?”

Wyatt opened his eyes and shot her a cold, disdainful gaze. It appeared as though he was looking down on her.

He then shut his eyes, not bothering to respond to her greeting.

“I apologize for interrupting your rest,” Stella said. She didn’t feel awkward at all despite his rude response.

Her seat was on the saw row as Wyatt but on the right side of the aisle.

After putting her luggage in the overhead bin, Stella settled into her seat. She occasionally glanced at Wyatt. Her warm smile was long gone, and she bore a grim expression.

Wyatt would usually ask his assistant to reserve a first-class ticket for him if he were to go on an overseas business trip. Why is he flying economy instead? It’s a long journey to Yartran. If this is a

business trip, he shouldn’t be wearing a suit now. His suit seems wrinkled, so it’s obvious he left in a hurry and didn’t have time to change out of his suit.

Stella was a smart woman. Based on Wyatt’s disheveled appearance and destination, she deduced he was rushing to Yartran as he was aware of Jessica’s location.

Is he going to the place Jefferson arranged for Jessica or somewhere else? After Jessica disappeared, even my sponsor’s men couldn’t find her. I doubt Wyatt knows where she is since he resides in Norwal City, Chanaea. I’m wondering if he knows where she is.

After the plane took flight, the lights were dimmed. It was quiet, so Stella soon fell asleep.

Over ten hours later, the plane finally landed at Yartran.

Stella followed the other passengers in exiting the plane. She noticed Wyatt didn’t have any luggage. He walked quickly and soon disappeared from sight. His actions merely confirmed her suspicions.

She hastily caught up to him and saw him flagging down a taxi by the road. The taxi took off quickly.

Stella memorized the taxi’s license plate. After getting herself a taxi, she told the driver to head to her hotel. She then changed into a local SIM card and dialed a number.

When the call connected, she recited the license plate of Wyatt’s taxi. “This is the taxi Wyatt took. Don’t lose them.”

It was past ten at night when Stella finally arrived at the hotel.

After checking into her room, she changed back to her original SIM card and gave Gabriel a call.

“Have you arrived in Yartran?”

“I arrived an hour and a half ago,” Stella replied, sounding exhausted. “It was a tiring flight, so I didn’t call you until I reached the hotel.”

“It’s fine. I’m glad you arrived safely.” Gabriel felt bad as she sounded really tired. “You should wash up and get some rest. The meeting with our business partner is tomorrow morning. I’ll give you a morning call tomorrow.”

“Mm.” Stella blew him a kiss. “You should rest early, too. Remember to miss me.”

“Of course. I miss you every day.”

Stella had just hung up when someone rang the doorbell.

Knowing that her boss had dispatched someone to pick her up, she quickly changed her attire and applied makeup before opening the door.

A man clad in the hotel’s uniform was standing outside. “Ms. Zink, my boss sent me here to pick you up.”

“Is he that indiscreet?” Stella joked. “The hotel is full of surveillance cameras. Isn’t he afraid someone would check the surveillance footage?”

The man told her, “Ms. Zink, you will not show up in the surveillance cameras in this hotel.”

Hearing that, Stella relaxed and agreed to leave with him.

She traveled to Yartran under the pretext of a business trip, so she had to return to Chanaea. It was wise to always be cautious.

Half an hour later, the taxi she was in arrived at the underground car park of a club.

The man escorted Stella to the elevator to reach the top floor. They walked down a circular hallway before coming to a halt in front of a door.

Stella entered the room to find a large, inviting space with a vibrant but not garish color palette. She immediately spotted a man sitting on the couch.

The man had a typical Adrunian appearance, with golden hair and bright blue eyes. He reclined on the couch as he spoke to someone beside him.

Despite his lazy demeanor, he looked like an elegant gentleman. No one could copy his vibe.

The man who brought Stella here came in and told the handsome man, “Sir, she’s here.”

Hearing that, the handsome gentleman stopped talking to the person beside him and looked up.

“Ms. Zink.”

He spoke fluent Chanaean, but his tone was haughty and superior. His gaze was filled with disdain as he looked at Stella, conveying his belief that he was of a higher status.

Stella approached the man with a warm smile, unaffected by his condescending demeanor. She gracefully took a seat and poured herself a glass of brandy, making a toast by clinking her glass with the glass on the table.

“Mr. Cyrus, let us toast to our first meeting.” She flashed a smile before downing her drink.

Arnaud frowned slightly at her words.

The man who brought Stella over immediately reported softly, “Sir, I told her nothing.”

“I guessed it myself.” Stella didn’t seem tipsy even though she had just finished a glass of brandy. She poured herself another glass. “I checked the number that contacted me earlier and found out about her identity.”

“Oh?” Seemingly interested in her explanation, Arnaud raised his hand to dismiss everyone else.

He raised his chin, gesturing for Stella to continue speaking.

Without hesitation, Stella revealed, “I found out that Dorothy Verlice was the one who sent me to Chanaea to become a spy in Faymon Group. I then checked where she worked. Once I realized you were Jefferson’s brother, it became clear why I had been sent to be a spy at Faymon Group and who my real boss was.”

She shrugged and continued nonchalantly, “It is easy to find anything through the Internet now. Am I right, Mr. Cyrus?”

“You’re smart. Way too smart.” Arnaud clapped his hands as his lips curled into a smirk. “You investigated me and discovered that I’m your boss. Ms. Zink, you’re amazing!”

Stella raised her glass and chuckled. “You’re exaggerating.”

Arnaud rubbed his jaw and mocked, “Your father couldn’t defeat Curtis after working for years in Faymon Group. He’s a fool, so I had no idea his daughter could be this smart.”

“Sir, you’re right. He’s an old fool,” Stella replied as an icy glint appeared in her eyes. “If he’s smart, he would’ve acknowledged me and asked for my help. That way, he wouldn’t have to die.”

In the end, she sighed wistfully. “What a pity his assets were seized.”

Stella was Mathias’ illegitimate child, but he had never acknowledged her. He would only occasionally give her mother some money.

Despite knowing who her father was, Stella never liked him.

Back when Naomi found her and told her about Mathias, she didn’t bother showing him any concern. In fact, she wished he would be jailed so she could inherit his assets.

 

 

 

Chapter 532

Unfortunately, Mathias’ misdeeds led to his assets being confiscated, leaving his wife and daughter with no place to stay.

That also meant it’d be even more difficult for Stella, who was merely his illegitimate child, to claim a dime from him.

In all honesty, her reason for working with Naomi and becoming a spy in the Faymon Group wasn’t to get back at Mathias. It was simply because Naomi could pay her well.

As for a heartless sc*mbag like Mathias, Stella couldn’t care less if he died.

Arnaud smiled as he crossed his legs and leaned back on the couch. “Even if you can’t get anything from your father, there’s no need to fret. That pathetic inheritance is nothing compared to what I can give you.”

“You’re right, Sir. Your generosity is incomparable,” Stella replied, a smile tugging at her lips while she twirled her hair. “I know there are many benefits from working with you, so rest assured that I’ll do my best.”

Arnaud took a sip of his brandy and nodded, clearly impressed with Stella. Like Naomi, she was deviously clever, and it wasn’t every day that he got to meet a woman of such caliber.

“You’re a lot smarter than I imagined, Ms. Zink. The person you sent to Summerbank accomplished their tasks perfectly. However…” he said before casting a sidelong glance at Stella. “I only told you to keep an eye on Rayna. I didn’t give any other instructions, did I? It’s impressive that you’ve gotten yourself acquainted with Mrs. Xavier, but there are times when lies backfire. Given the status and power of the Xavier family, not even I would be able to protect you if anything goes wrong.”

Stella smiled, seemingly unfazed by Arnaud’s words or the Xaviers’ clout.

“Sir, do you know what the butterfly effect is?”

Naturally, that piqued Arnaud’s interest. “Tell me more.”

Stella showed her pearly whites as she plucked a grape and popped it into her mouth, looking both sultry and elegant.

“When a basket of eggs drops on the ground, those at the bottom and sides will most likely crack, while the ones in the middle stay well-protected. However, if you were to toss the eggs out, there’s no doubt they’d all break,” Stella explained calmly. “Jessica and Jasmine’s friendship with Rayna is hardly a threat. What’s scary is the men supporting them. Those are the ones who are the most difficult to deal with. Therefore, as long as we can create a rift among them, we’d be able to set off a series of negative consequences.”

With that, Stella locked eyes with Arnaud and grinned. “Once we’ve torn them apart, don’t you think it’d be much easier to accomplish whatever we’ve set our minds to?”

Upon hearing that, Arnaud felt a chill run down his spine.

Wow. Stella Zink is way more brilliant and calculating than I thought. That said, she’s also a cold- blooded woman who only cares about her own interests. People like her are the most terrifying, especially since they can betray others in the blink of an eye. Well… I can continue working with Stella, but I’d have to be constantly wary of her. After all, she’s not someone I’d want as a close confidant.

In just a few seconds, Arnaud had a newfound respect for Stella, though he didn’t let it show on his face. Classy and charming as always, he raised his glass and toasted her.

“You sure are a force to be reckoned with, Ms. Zink. I’m impressed.”

“Ah, but I’m nowhere as formidable as you, Sir,” Stella replied. “You’ve planned everything without stepping out of the house. I have faith that you’ll outdo Jefferson within the next three years.”

As soon as he heard that, Arnaud arched a brow. “Oh? What do you know about that?”

Stella smiled politely and shook her head. “I wouldn’t know unless you want to tell me.”

After staring at the woman for several seconds, Arnaud, too, let out a chuckle. “That’s a good attitude to have, Ms. Zink. I must say you’re worth every penny.”

“Thank you, Sir,” Stella said before pouring herself another glass of wine. “Anyway, given the severity of Jasmine’s injury, she’d most likely be bedbound for the rest of her life. You don’t have to worry about me.”

“Are you sure Mrs. Xavier never suspected you at all?”

“Of course! She treated me as a friend and even invited me for tea to pick my brain!” Stella replied smugly. “I had only visited the beauty salon a few times and chatted with her. Never in my wildest dreams did I think she’d befriend me that quickly! All I did was pull out a random news article, and she immediately believed me and did everything as I said.”

Ha. I’ve always known that Mrs. Xavier’s a sharp-witted lady and not one to be messed with. I was worried she’d see through my facade from the get-go, but to my surprise, she turned out to be nothing more than a paper tiger! I merely told Mrs. Xavier that Jasmine had secretly married and was pregnant. Who knew she’d take my story at face value? Not only did she believe Jasmine was a promiscuous woman, but she also asked me for advice. What a joke!

Despite her deeds, Stella remained unapologetic and derisive. “Oh, if only Mrs. Xavier had used her brain more, Jasmine wouldn’t have ended up in such a sorry state.”

“You were the one who planned for Jasmine to suffer, yet you’re still blaming Mrs. Xavier for not being clever enough?” Arnaud scoffed. “Are you sympathizing with Jasmine? Or… Could it be that you’re jealous of Rayna?”

“That’s right. I’m jealous of Rayna,” Stella admitted without skipping a beat. “I can’t stand how lucky she’s been. Have I not proved myself to be smarter than her? I’ve played her and her little gang like a fiddle, for goodness’ sake!”

The next second, her gaze darkened as she took a whiff of the brandy. “The both of us started from the bottom, but why does she still get to live a good life despite her parents’ divorce? Why does she get to make friends with powerful and influential people?”

The world is full of clever and beautiful women, so why must Lady Luck favor Rayna? She has achieved everything that others might not even accomplish in their lifetime. This is so unfair! I want Rayna to be utterly down and out. I want to see how pathetic she is when she loses her love, luck, and friends!

Having caught the hint of jealousy in Stella’s eyes, Arnaud curled his lips into a smile. “I thought you were a smart and capable woman who only cared for yourself, Ms. Zink. Who knew you’d be jealous of other women too?”

“No matter how clever you are, there will still be times when you can’t beat other people’s good fortune.”

Having chatted with Arnaud for so long, Stella knew she had to return to the hotel soon to avoid suspicion.

With that, she decided to get to the point.

“Sir, I know you’ve called me here today because Naomi is dead, and you need someone to work for you. Alas, you’d never be honest with me because I’m too discerning,” Stella said sweetly with a faint smile. “Lucky for you, I don’t mind that one bit. All I care about is that you pay me enough.”

“As long as you execute my instructions well, you’re free to name the price. By the way, do you have anything to do with the leak of Ocean International and Faymon Group’s plans?”

Upon hearing that, Stella smiled wider. “Well, I live with Gabriel, and his computer password is really easy to crack. In all honesty, I never thought he’d digitize the plan and store it in his personal computer.”

“What? You’re dating Curtis’ assistant, Gabriel?” Arnaud exclaimed, clearly shocked by the discovery.

Given Stella’s ambition, I always thought Curtis would be her target… Who knew she’d go to such an extent?

Naturally, it didn’t take long before Arnaud figured out Stella’s devious plan. “I can’t believe you said that with such nonchalance, Ms. Zink. You truly are a ruthless gold-digger.”

“Ha! People who are too naive can’t survive in this world.”

 

 

 

Chapter 533

“I did all this for your benefit, Sir,” Stella said as she held Arnaud’s gaze. “Besides, didn’t you approach me because you knew I was clever?”

Before Stella could say any more, Arnaud interrupted, “I’ve told my father about Jefferson and Rayna getting married. I think he’d be making a trip down to Norwal City. After all, their wedding was ruined by Curtis.”

Stunned, Stella stared silently at the man’s handsome, defined face.

Not only was he calm and collected, but he also had a smile tugging at his lips. The more Stella looked into Arnaud’s gentle blue eyes, the more she felt chills running down her back.

All of a sudden, she burst into laughter. “Sir, you say I’m ruthless, but you’re way worse.”

After downing her brandy, Stella set her glass down and stood from the couch.

“Once the plans between Ocean International and Faymon Group are leaked, there’s no doubt the latter will be in disarray. I hope you’ll take secret action when that time comes, Sir,” she added as she approached Arnaud and stuck her hand out. “I’ll do whatever you want me to do. As for me, my target is Faymon Group.”

Arnaud gazed at the woman’s svelte hand and grinned. “You have a big appetite, Ms. Zink.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re the first woman I’ve met to be so ambitious and goal-oriented,” he replied as he shook her hand to solidify their deal. “I have no complaints about that.”

Stella nodded with a smile. “Well, it’s getting late. I should head back to the hotel. I hope to taste your wines again, Sir.”

With that, Arnaud ordered his subordinate to send Stella back.

Now that he was alone in the private room, Arnaud slowly poured himself another brandy and thought back to his conversation with Stella.

Before long, a smile crept across his face. “Ha. It’s easy to carve one’s empire, but it’s difficult to guard it.”

I may not have confronted Curtis head-on before, but I know how formidable he is. He got rid of his uncle and aunt without much fuss and gained complete control of the Faymon Group. Even I must admit that’s impressive. Therefore, why would he give away Faymon Group just because their plans were leaked? Stella Zink is, without a doubt, devious and clever. However, she lacks experience in the business world and naively believes that everything will go her way. Ah… Forget it. After all, she has proven herself useful by doing what I told her to, thus allowing me to take over the Terblanc family.

Meanwhile, Wyatt had arrived in Yartran and went straight to the address provided by Rayna. To his dismay, the place was completely empty.

Undeterred, he stopped a resident nearby and began asking questions.

As luck would have it, the resident lived right next to the unit. “Ah, yes. A Chanaean woman used to live there. She’d occasionally head out for a walk with a housekeeper. However, she just upped and left after the shooting incident. I have no idea where she went.”

After asking the resident for the woman’s appearance and confirming that it was indeed Jessica, Wyatt became even more panicked. He was deathly afraid that something untoward might have happened to her.

Without further ado, he called up his subordinates in Yartran and ordered them to look around for Jessica. Then, he rushed to the nearest police station to obtain the surveillance footage. Alas, by the time he managed to pull strings to access the surveillance cameras, he realized they were all out of order.

Argh! Rayna must’ve known about this a while ago! Why else would she give me this address to help search for Jessica?

Wyatt had half a mind to call and scold Rayna, but he also knew there was a chance the latter might mock him for being useless. Eventually, he gave up on that thought and continued his frantic search for Jessica.

Back in Chanaea, Jacob had just gotten home from work when Hazel asked him sarcastically if he had forgotten about his pregnant wife.

It was only then that Jacob suddenly remembered how he had inadvertently rescued Jessica in Yartran and even worked with her to fool his mother.

Afraid of being reprimanded by Hazel, Jacob coaxed her and immediately bought a flight ticket to Yartran for the following day.

Thankfully, he still remembered where he had arranged for Jessica to stay.

When the housekeeper opened the door, her surprise was quickly replaced with a polite smile. “Ah, Mr. Valentine, have you come to see your wife? Mrs. Valentine is in the pink of health. The doctor comes over regularly to give her checkups too.”

“Wife?” Jacob muttered before the housekeeper’s perplexed look snapped him out of his daze. “Oh! Yes, yes! I’ve come to see her after finishing up my work.”

The housekeeper merely held her tongue and led Jacob into the house.

To the latter’s surprise, Jessica was nowhere to be seen. “Where is she?”

“Oh, Mrs. Valentine told me to buy her some paints and drawing boards this afternoon. I think she’s painting in the study,” the housekeeper replied as she walked to the laundry room. “I’ll do the washing first, Mr. Valentine.”

“Ah! Does that mean the doctor I found has dropped by and treated her eyes?”

Hmm… When I first called the doctor, he said the laboratory was too busy and that he could only find time for Jessica after three months. Has he swung by already?

“No, but Mrs. Valentine said she felt like drawing.”

“Huh? How is she supposed to draw if she can’t even see?” Jacob muttered under his breath as he made his way up the stairs.

The study was at the end of the hallway, and by the time Jacob got there, he saw that the door was wide open.

A shelf had been set up beside the floor-to-ceiling windows, and a young woman sat in front of an easel, occasionally dabbing her paintbrush on the drawing board.

Dressed simply in a brown knitted dress, she was a picture of obedience and poise.

Jacob slowed his steps as he admired the scene before him. The evening sun had shone aslant through the windows, casting a warm glow over Jessica that accentuated her beautiful features.

One thing was for sure—she was as pretty as a picture.

Enraptured by the woman’s beauty, Jacob was in such a daze that he hit his face against the door frame and yelped in pain.

Having heard the noise, Jessica turned around and blinked. Alas, there was still no pupil response in her eyes.

“Mr. Valentine?”

“Yes. It’s me,” Jacob said as he rubbed his forehead and let out a dry laugh. “I was texting someone and accidentally hit my head on the door. How embarrassing, huh?”

“Oh, that’s careless of you. I’ll tell the housekeeper to bring you some ointment later.”

By then, Jacob had already walked up to Jessica. “No, no. Don’t trouble her for something so trivial. You know, it’s good that you have hobbies, but how can you draw with your current lack of sight? The paints have gotten—”

Just then, Jacob caught a glimpse of the drawing board and gasped.

“Oh, d*mn!”

As it turned out, he was staring at a sunflower.

Even though the leaves were a little crooked, there was no denying it was a beautifully painted sunflower. In fact, one might even think it was an abstract painting.

On top of that, the hand caressing the sunflower had been painted perfectly, thus making the artwork so much more stunning.

Jacob quickly turned to look at Jessica. “Have you regained your sight?”

The latter shook her head.

“H-How did you draw this, then?” Jacob stuttered as he pointed at the painting. “You can paint so well despite not being able to see. If you continue working on it, you’ll be a master artist in no time!”

A smile slowly spread across Jessica’s face. “Not at all. I asked the housekeeper previously what color to use for each square and committed that to memory. I was only painting for fun. Does it look good?”

“It’s very good!”

Upon seeing the smile on Jessica’s face, Jacob suddenly realized how different she was from the first time he met her. Not only had her mental state done a one-eighty, but she also looked much healthier.

“You look pretty when you smile,” Jacob added. “You should smile more in the future.”

“Okay,” Jessica said sincerely with a nod. “Thank you for saving me and going the extra mile to care for my baby and me.”

“Oh, don’t mention it. We’re partners, remember? I helped you, but you’ve also helped me in return. By the way, what did you and my mother talk about when she was here the last time?”

“Ah… Your mother was easy to deal with,” Jessica remarked as she tried to stifle a giggle. “She kept grumbling about you and said you finally made something of yourself when you got a wife. Otherwise, she’d have severed ties with you.”

 

 

 

 

Chapter 534

Jacob sighed, feeling he was caught in a difficult spot.

“My mom is being unreasonable. How can she be so hasty and impatient in handling this matter? I can consider accepting her gesture if she introduced better women to me. However, all the women she set me up with on blind dates are horrible! My mom even introduced Hausen’s CEO’s daughter to me in the past, telling me how wonderful she was. D*mn it! You should’ve seen that woman in person. She scared me out of my wits with her mantrap-like appearance.”

Hearing that name, Jessica knitted her brows. “Hausen?”

“Oh. That’s a big company, but you wouldn’t know if you didn’t work in the finance industry.” Jacob didn’t sense her unusual behavior. “Regrettably, the CEO of Hausen, Justin Morales, died, and the company went bankrupt. His daughter and wife seemed to have left the country. Fortunately, his family met its downfall. Otherwise, I think I would have to cut ties with my mom because she’s fond of Justin’s daughter.”

Jacob had been curious about something. He couldn’t shake off the feeling that Justin’s death was somewhat related to Wyatt.

Otherwise, how else could they have died after he saw them off just a few moments ago?

Wyatt was even summoned to the police station because of that matter. However, he was merely detained for a few days before being released unscathed.

Seeing Jessica lowering her head in silence, Jacob asked her, “Are you not feeling well?”

“Yes. It is common for me to feel discomfort and nauseous during pregnancy.” She regained her senses and casually made up an excuse to reply to him. “It’s nothing major.”

He contemplated briefly before saying, “I’ll bring you out for dinner tonight to try some different food and buy you some clothes.”

“That’s not necessary.”

“That’s all right. We won’t be spending much anyway. Perhaps my mom will want to visit again. She will definitely be suspicious about our relationship if she sees you being mistreated.”

Jessica uttered hesitantly, “I can’t see.”

“It’s okay. You’ll be fine if you wear a pair of sunglasses and hold onto me the whole time.” Noticing the paint stains on her hands, Jacob said, “Your hands are very dirty. Do you want me to bring you to get washed up?”

“Okay.”

He brought her to the powder room and thoughtfully squeezed some liquid soap onto her palms.

Standing at one side and looking at her washing her hands, Jacob was again reminded of the drawing outside. He asked curiously, “Why did you draw a hand beside a sunflower? Is there any meaning behind the painting?”

Jessica paused briefly and answered casually, “I drew it because I thought the picture was very artistic.”

“Oh.” He nodded. She’s right. That painting is indeed artistic. Not everyone will admire and appreciate such a drawing.

Jessica needed to change her clothes as well because it was soiled. She told Jacob she could do that on her own without the housekeeper’s assistance, so he went downstairs first.

When he saw the housekeeper, he said to the latter, “I’m bringing her out for dinner, so you don’t have to prepare our meals tonight.”

“Okay.”

Jacob added, “Also, go downstairs to measure the size of the painting downstairs and frame it. Hang the drawing in the living room. It’s quite a nice artwork.”

The housekeeper knew Jessica was blind, so she reckoned there was nothing special with the painting. She said with a smile, “Of course. That drawing is more precious than the masterpieces in the art gallery since your wife drew it.”

Jacob shrugged.

Initially, he planned to secretly bring the drawing back home and flaunt it in front of his friends before falsely describing the painting as an exorbitant piece of art to earn some big bucks by selling it.

However, he felt it was inappropriate to do so because Jessica drew the painting.

After a few minutes, Jessica came downstairs after changing into a loose-fitting long dress.

She was familiar with the house’s layout, so even if she couldn’t see her surroundings, she could amble downstairs with the help of the handrails.

If Jacob didn’t know she had lost her vision, he might even be convinced she wasn’t handicapped.

He helped her to put on a pair of sunglasses.

The sunglasses were oversized and couldn’t even fit on the bridge of Jessica’s nose. Her comical appearance caused him to laugh out loud.

“Hey.” She gazed in his direction in displeasure.

“It’s the sunglasses’ fault. There’s nothing wrong with you.” He suppressed his urge to laugh. “I’ll buy a new pair of sunglasses for you later.”

Jessica ignored him and strode toward the door by herself. Jacob hastily followed her.

After helping her to change her shoes and open the door, he held her hand.

Her hand felt warm and soft this time instead of cold like last time.

Noticing her withdrawing her arm, Jacob grabbed her hand and placed it around his arm. “If you don’t want to walk with a white cane or on a tactile pavement, you’ll have to let me guide you.”

Subsequently, Jessica didn’t struggle anymore and left the house while holding his arm.

After walking for a short while, he helped her into the car.

After Jessica lost her vision for some time, her initial nervousness and panic subsided as she grew accustomed to her condition. She felt contented as long as she had a place to sleep and eat.

That was her first time going out with someone after turning blind.

She asked Jacob to lower the car window as she wanted to feel the cool breeze and listen to the sound of the wind whistling.

While the car was waiting for the traffic light to turn green, she could even hear the passers-by conversing. At that instant, she felt warm and happy.

Jessica asked, “Where are we going?”

“I’ll bring you to have dinner first.” Jacob took out his phone as he spoke. “Do you want to eat Chanaean cuisine or Adrunian food?”

“Chanaean cuisine, then.” She asked after replying, “Will it be troublesome for you?”

“No. Just let me know if you want to eat anything.” After finding the address to the restaurant, Jacob informed the driver where to go.

Jacob’s heart ached as he took in Jessica’s cautious demeanor. He couldn’t help but say, “You don’t have to think of yourself as a nuisance. I wouldn’t have rescued you if I thought you were troublesome. Besides, we’re collaboration partners. You’re also helping me out.”

Although Jessica was blind, her eyes weren’t damaged, so she was as pretty as before.

He almost stretched out his hand to touch her but quickly controlled his desire. “Josie, you don’t have to live so carefully or think you’ll trouble anyone for wanting to do something. You should smile more. That way, your child will feel your good mood.”

She must’ve been a vivacious person in the past with a dazzling smile and probably became so timid, submissive, and depressive after she was met with some devastating experiences.

Jessica blinked. Then, her eyes curved into gorgeous crescents as she smiled faintly. “Okay.”

Soon, the car arrived at Chanaean Street.

Stores selling various delicacies lined the street. As it was nighttime, the place was crowded and extremely lively.

Jacob brought Jessica into a Chanaean cuisine restaurant.

He read out the dishes available on the menu and ordered all the food Jessica wanted to eat.

As the restaurant was established by a Chanaean store owner, the taste of the dishes was authentic. Even the air inside the restaurant was filled with the scent of spices.

Jacob didn’t have any dietary restrictions, nor was he a picky eater. He thought the food there was quite delicious.

Jessica took a few spoonfuls of the food before she started vomiting. She tried eating again, and after repeating the cycle a few times, even her face turned pale. In the end, she didn’t have the appetite to eat anything.

The turns of events scared Jacob out of his wits. He called an Adrunian restaurant and ordered some soup to be delivered over.

He let Jessica try out all kinds of soups.

After seeing her appetite improve as she finished a plate of spaghetti and a bowl of soup, he could finally relax.

“Your boyfriend is such a jerk!” Jacob complained, “Women have such a tough time during pregnancy, yet he could still argue with you and even abandon you overseas. If I were in his situation, I wouldn’t dare retaliate if my wife scolds or hits me during her pregnancy.”

Jessica merely smiled without responding.

Fearing she might feel unwell after having her meal, Jacob deliberately brought Jessica to shop around Chanaean Street. He bought some interesting items he saw before taking her to the shopping complex to buy some clothes.

Jessica tried a few outfits. However, after knowing the price of the clothes, she told Jacob her stomach would increase in size very quickly during her pregnancy, so she wouldn’t need to purchase such expensive clothing since she would have to change her clothes frequently.

Despite agreeing with her, he secretly paid for those garments as well before leaving the store.

After that, he took her to a store selling maternity clothes. There, Jessica selected and bought a few sets of clothes.

“That’s enough. Your mom will bring me to purchase more clothes when she visits. I won’t be able to keep them anyway, so these clothes should last me for a long while. Besides, I’m getting tired of shopping.”

“Okay. We’ll go home then.” Jacob thought she must indeed be exhausted when he noticed the layer of sweat covering her forehead.

He took out a piece of tissue to help her wipe off the sweat while asking cheerily, “So, how do you feel? Don’t you feel your mood improved after spending some time outside? You look much better than when you were cooped inside the house earlier.”

Jessica grinned and nodded. “Yes. I think I’ve yet to lose touch with the world.”

Jacob couldn’t help but smile and teased her, “In that case, I should bring you out more often to avoid causing you to be out of touch with the world.”

They chatted happily while strolling on the street.

Meanwhile, on the opposite street, a tall figure moved among the crowd. His suit was wrinkled, and a distraught look spread across his handsome face.

He glanced around his surroundings, seemingly searching for something impatiently.

When he shifted his gaze onto the opposite street, Jacob was coincidentally guiding Jessica into the taxi before getting into the vehicle himself.

As a result, that man only saw the taxi drive away.

 

 

 

Chapter 535

Half an hour later, Jacob brought her back home.

As he was dragging Jessica into the house, he said, “Things are getting busy at Norwal City, so I won’t be able to come so often. Just call me if you need anything. Also, let the housekeeper know where you will like to go. I paid her an exorbitant amount just to take care of you. Don’t worry about being a bother. Okay?”

“I understand.” With that, Jessica followed him into the house.

She leaned on the shoe rack to remove her shoes when Jacob stopped her. “It’s difficult for you. Allow me.”

Jacob then proceeded to remove her flats and put on a pair of comfy bedroom slippers for her.

Jessica found it awkward. She wanted to thank him but did not want him to tell her off. Instead, she pursed her lips and asked, “Is your company also in Norwal City? So, do you know Glory?”

Ever since she arrived at Yartran, she had not been in touch with Rayna.

“Yes, I’m aware of it. That company sells cosmetics.” After changing her shoes for her, Jacob did the same for himself. “Recently, something major happens in Glory. I suppose you aren’t aware of it.”

“What is it?”

“Norwal City is a branch of Glory. Do you remember they have new CEO and vice CEO a few months ago? The new CEO is of mixed blood, and he is about to get married to the vice CEO, Rayna. Guess what happened when the two of them stepped into the church?”

Jacob tutted before continuing excitedly, “Mr. Faymon showed up and stole the bride! Oh my! At that moment, I was shell-shocked. I heard about the rumors between Rayna and Mr. Faymon, but I didn’t expect him to have the guts to kidnap the bride.”

Jessica exclaimed and looked startled.

Since she lost her eyesight, she hardly ever listened to the news, so she had no idea that something of such magnitude had taken place.

It turned out that the wedding between Rayna and Jefferson nearly happened.

After she got over the excitement, she asked Jacob, “So what happened afterward? Did Rayna and the CEO of Glory got married?”

“After what Mr. Faymon did, of course, the wedding did not take place.” Jacob then gasped and added, “The PR department of Faymon Group is very efficient indeed. Within a few hours, they managed to block off all the news regarding the fiasco. There was hardly any uproar at all.”

He then asked Jessica out of curiosity, “Why did you ask me about Glory? Do you know anyone who is working there?”

“Yes,” answered Jessica vaguely. In addition to her blindness, she seemed to be lost in her thoughts. As a result, she did not feel the steps and tripped. Her body fell forward.

Jacob, who was standing next to her, reached out to support her waist when he saw that she was about to hit the ground. The very next moment, he had her in his embrace.

When her head hit him on his chest, she cried out in pain.

“I-I’m sorry,” Jessica got flustered and began to apologize.

She did not know which part of him had she hit, so she started feeling around with her hands. “Where did I hit you? Are you all right? Does it hurt?”

Jacob grabbed her roaming hands.

His heart skipped a beat when he felt her soft touch. Very soon, he let go of her hands and coughed before saying, “I’m all right. There’s a step here, but you didn’t realize. Thankfully, you didn’t fall.”

Just then, the housekeeper came down from upstairs and saw the two of them at the door.

“Mr. Valentine, Mrs. Valentine, you’re back?” The housekeeper smiled when she saw the shopping bags in Jacob’s hands. “That’s right. Sir, you should bring Mrs. Valentine out more often. It will get too boring for her to stay at home.”

Jacob was used to the way his housekeeper addressed Jessica. He acknowledged by saying, “But I still have a lot of work to do. You will have to look after her and take her out in the future.”

“I understand,” said the housekeeper as she nodded. She then turned to Jessica and said, “Mrs. Valentine, your pajamas are ready.”

“All right. Thank you.”

Jessica then told Jacob that she would be going to her room first. She stretched out her arms and tried to figure her way out. Once she located her sense of direction, she made her way up slowly.

Jacob wanted to lend her a helping hand but, he was worried about hurting her self-esteem.

He looked at the slow movement of hers and felt pity for her. How can such a beautiful woman like her be blind? It’s so unfair.

When the housekeeper saw that Jacob was standing still, she asked, “Mr. Valentine, aren’t you going up to help Mrs. Valentine?”

“Isn’t she already up there?”

“Haiz!” The housekeeper rolled her eyes at him before she reminded him, “She’s your wife after all. Her eyesight isn’t good, and you hardly come by. Why don’t you spend more time with her and help her with her shower?”

Jacob nearly choked on his own saliva.

If she is really my wife, I will definitely do it without being told. The issue is she isn’t my wife!

“It’s fine. She seems to be doing well on her own.” Jacob coughed lightly and appeared awkward. “Oh, by the way, please prepare the second bedroom. I’ll be sleeping there.”

The housekeeper looked at Jacob strangely again before going upstairs.

Jacob was at a loss for words.

Does my housekeeper think that I’m a scumbag?

Worried that Hazel might check on him, Jacob took photos of the clothes that he bought for Jessica and posted their romantic outing online so that it could be viewed by their friends and Hazel.

He had no idea when the collaboration between Jessica and him would come to an end. It would be better if less friends knew about it.

Once the housekeeper was done setting up the bedroom, she went downstairs and informed Jacob.

He put his phone away, picked up the shopping bags, arrived outside Jessica’s door, and knocked on it.

“Come in.”

After receiving her permission, Jacob went in.

He saw that Jessica was done washing up and dressed in her silk pajamas. At that moment, she was lying in bed and listening to music.

“I’ve brought your shopping up for you,” said Jacob. “Will you like me to place them in your wardrobe?”

Jessica nodded before saying, “Don’t trouble yourself. Just get the housekeeper to do it.”

“It’s no problem. Anyway, I have already brought them up here.” With that, Jacob walked toward the wardrobe and saw the row of beautiful clothes hanging there. A smile appeared on his face. He was quite certain that his mother had bought those clothes for Jessica.

Hazel dressed exquisitely with the help of a stylist. Her taste could be too hard on the eyes if she were left on her own accord.

If he were Jessica, he would not wear those clothes either.

Jacob kept an eye on Jessica while he hung up the new clothes.

“Do you listen to music before you sleep so early every night?”

“Yes. Sometimes, I’ll feel uncomfortable in the wee hours of the morning. When I wake up, I find my throat very dry,” said Jessica helplessly. “That’s why I sleep early. Music is used to soothe the child too.”

Jacob felt sorry for her when he heard that. “It must be difficult for you.”

He shut the wardrobe door and walked over to the bed. He could not help but say, “In that case, why don’t you give your boyfriend a call and ask him to fetch you?”

Jessica moved her eyes in his direction and started to get nervous. “Don’t you want me anymore?”

“No, that’s not what I meant.” All of a sudden, Jacob felt like a heartless b*stard. “I’m very busy and can only visit you once every two months. I won’t be able to keep you accompanied. Someone told me that pregnant women tend to think too much. I’m worried that your mind may run wild if you stay at home all by yourself. If anything happens to you, I will be blamed, won’t I?”

“So, that’s what you are worried about.” Jessica was aware that he was thinking for himself too. She comforted him with a smile, “Even when I’m alone, I can paint or listen to audio books. Don’t worry about anything. I’m not that fragile.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Jessica nodded. “You saw that I was nearly being… I survived, didn’t I?”

She placed her hand on her tummy and said softly, “I’m in a foreign land, and I can only depend on you. Please… help me one more time. Once my friend is available, I’ll give her a call. Then, there will be no need to trouble you anymore.”

 

 

Chapter 536

“No, no, I don’t think you’re troubling me,” Jacob swiftly interrupted. “All right, I think we should stop talking about that. Just remember that if you’re feeling hurt anywhere, tell the housekeepers or me about it.”

He grabbed Jessica’s phone and continued, “What audiobooks do you like to listen to? I’ll help you get them. Next time, just tell the AI assistant the name of the book you want to listen to.”

After he set up the audiobooks she liked listening to, he talked with her for a while.

Upon seeing her joyous smile, he felt happy too and wanted to tell her he was planning to bring her out for a picnic tomorrow. Before he could do that, however, the phone sitting on the bedside table rang.

Jacob glanced at the number on the screen and answered the call. “Damn you. Why are you calling me in the middle of the night?”

“I saw your Instagram.” The man on the other end sounded drunk and exhausted. “Come find me at the club.”

“You’re in Yartran?”

“Mm.”

“Are you messing with me?” Jacob rolled his eyes, irritated. “There are so many cities in Yartran. How the heck would I know which city you’re in and if we’re in the same place?”

Annoyed, the man exclaimed, “I’m at Blacks. Just get the hell over here!”

Blacks was the bar where Jacob had discussed business matters last time and brought his friends.

I didn’t expect Wyatt to be in the same area as me right now! Jacob rubbed the space between his eyebrows and let out a sigh. “Fine. I’ll change my clothes and head over there later.”

Upon hanging up the phone, he informed Jessica resignedly, “My buddy is in Yartran, and he’s drinking in Blacks right now. I think something happened to him, so I’m going to meet up with him. You go to bed first, all right?”

Jessica nodded and reminded softly, “Be careful, and come home soon.”

“I’ll do my best. He sounds smashed.” Jacob sighed. I wonder if I can even return tonight.

Before he left, he stood at the entrance and said, “I’ll bring you out for a picnic tomorrow. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” Even after Jacob shut the door, Jessica was still feeling somewhat uneasy. That voice in the call… sounds like Wyatt’s.

She shook her head. No. There’s no way Jacob knows Wyatt. That’d be too much of a coincidence.

Arriving at Blacks, Jacob stepped into the building and started looking for Wyatt.

He found Wyatt sitting in the corner of a couch.

“Oh my god! Are you crazy?” He couldn’t resist reprimanding Wyatt when he saw the empty bottles on the table. “This is brandy! Did you think you were drinking beer? Aren’t you afraid of drinking yourself to death here?”

Opening his eyes, Wyatt glanced at Jacob and pointed at the empty spot next to him. “Sit.”

“Like heck I will!” Jacob rolled his eyes and snatched the bottle in Wyatt’s hand away.

He then summoned a waiter to clean the table and bring medication that would sober Wyatt up.

Jacob sat next to Wyatt, took in the latter’s soulless appearance, and furrowed his eyebrows. “What’s the matter with you? You’ve been acting oddly for a while now, and now you look even more like a lost soul.”

Wyatt lay on the couch, his hand resting on his forehead, as he uttered hoarsely, “I can’t find her. She’s gone.”

Even after searching the entire area for days, he still couldn’t find Jessica.

Jacob stuffed the medicine into Wyatt’s mouth and asked, “You got yourself into this state because you’re searching for someone? Who are you looking for? Your wife?”

“I don’t want the meds!” Wyatt slapped his friend’s hand away and spat out the medicine. “I want to drink! Get me another bottle!”

“You’ve drunk three bottles of brandy. Is that not enough for you?”

“No.” Shaking his head, Wyatt pointed at his heart. “I’m feeling a lot of pain here. Too much pain. It’ll only stop hurting after I’m drunk.”

Gazing at his friend, Jacob sighed. “We’ve known each other for a very long time. To me, you’ve always been this high-spirited and carefree person. I’ve never seen you this lost before.”

Wyatt stared at the lights above him and muttered, “Is that so? Why does my heart hurt so much, then…”

I can’t find her no matter where I look. Anytime I think about her, my heart hurts. It hurt so, so much… He panted and yelled at a waiter, “I want to drink! Someone brings me more!”

“Stop drinking! You’re really going to die if you drink any more!” Jacob pulled his crazy friend up and signaled the waiter not to bring any more alcohol. “Sober up, goddamnit! There are many other women

in the world you can take as your wife! It’s not like it’s hard for you to do that.”

Drunkenly, Wyatt glared at him. “You don’t know shit!”

“Fine, I don’t! You do!” Jacob said sarcastically. “Who was the one who said money is more important than women in the past, huh? If you know shit, would you have ended up like this?”

That rendered Wyatt speechless.

Moments later, he spoke as though he had just lost his soul. “Yeah, I don’t know shit.”

“Why did she lie to me? Why…” He hugged his head. His headache got so bad that he felt as though his brain was going to explode. Gritting his teeth, he muttered, “Why did she abort my child? Damn her…” Why am I still chasing after her?

“What are you saying, Wyatt?” Jacob couldn’t hear his friend clearly, so he leaned closer. “Who lied to you? Who are you cursing? Is it that woman?”

Abruptly, Wyatt lifted his head and demanded, “I want to drink! Bring me more!”

“Fine, fine! I’ll bring you more.” Jacob was slightly terrified by his friend’s demeanor. Since he couldn’t win against Wyatt, he summoned a waiter and secretly asked the waiter to bring beer instead.

After the beer arrived, Wyatt downed one cup of it after another as though he was drinking water in a desert. As he did, he mumbled grimly, “Why did she lie to me?”

Jacob had given up persuading his friend to stop. I doubt he’ll listen to what I say anymore. If I keep going, I’ll probably piss him off, and he’ll hit me, which I don’t want.

Silently, he sat next to Wyatt. They both drank until one in the morning.

After Wyatt passed out on the couch, Jacob asked a waiter for assistance and brought his friend into a taxi.

When Jacob arrived at his place with Wyatt, he used all his might to drag the latter upstairs and into the side bedroom.

“You’re an idiot, Wyatt!” Jacob rubbed his sore arms. “If you weren’t my buddy, I would’ve just ignored you!”

He tossed Wyatt onto the carpet and placed a towel on the latter’s body, then slept on the bed.

By the time Jacob woke up, it was already eight in the morning.

After cleaning himself in the bathroom, he walked out and saw that Wyatt was still sleeping on the carpet. He recalled what had happened last night and kicked Wyatt. “Wake up, Wyatt.”

“Scram!” Wyatt’s voice was filled with hostility. He turned away and continued sleeping.

Jacob cursed Wyatt in his mind, kicked him again, and left the room after changing his clothes.

When he passed by the master bedroom, he saw the door was shut tight and knocked on it. “Josie, are you awake?”

No one replied.

Assuming she was still asleep, he went downstairs. He saw the housekeeper busying about in the kitchen, and that breakfast had been served on the dining table.

He said, “Prepare an extra portion of breakfast. I brought a friend back here last night.”

“Understood, Mr. Valentine.” It was then the housekeeper noticed he had arrived downstairs. “Has Mrs. Valentine not woken up yet?”

 

 

Chapter 537

“No. I checked on her earlier, but I didn’t get any response,” Jacob answered.

“Mrs. Valentine slept quite early last night, didn’t she?” The housekeeper was confounded. “She usually comes downstairs at around eight.”

Upon hearing that, Jacob thought something was off. She’s usually not a sleepyhead, so why didn’t she reply earlier?

“I think she’s feeling unwell because of her pregnancy.” Jacob put down his cup and stood up. “I’ll take a look at her.” He returned to the master bedroom and knocked on the door. “Josie, are you feeling unwell? Josie?”

Even after he yelled her name a few times and knocked loudly, she still didn’t respond.

His countenance turned grim as he opened the door.

Upon entering the room, he saw Jessica grimacing, although her eyes remained closed.

Jacob hastily went up to her and patted her cheeks. “What’s going on with you, Josie?”

It was then he realized she was covered in sweat.

Without delay, he put a coat on her and carried her downstairs.

He said to the housekeeper, “She’s not doing well. I’m sending her to the hospital right now. Take care of my friend when he wakes up and tell him where I went.”

The housekeeper nodded. “Understood! Call me if you need anything, Mr. Valentine.”

Just as Jacob left, Wyatt woke up.

Upon sitting up, he rubbed his temples as he still had a headache.

He studied the bedroom and recalled he had called Jacob last night. I think this is his place.

“Goddamnit! How dare he let me sleep on the carpet!” He glowered when he realized he was on the ground. I can’t believe he just tossed me onto the carpet. I usually treat him so well!

Seeing that his suit had gotten all wrinkly and smelly, Wyatt frowned and went to take a shower.

Once he was done, he grabbed two pieces of clothing from the wardrobe and put them on.

The housekeeper noticed Wyatt when he came downstairs, so she informed him, “You must be Mr. Valentine’s friend. Breakfast is ready. Please take a look if they’re to your liking.”

“You speak Chanaean quite fluently.” Wyatt sat at the dining table. “Did he specifically hire someone who could?”

The housekeeper nodded. “Mrs. Valentine doesn’t speak the local language fluently, so he hired me to take care of her.”

“Mm.” It was then Wyatt realized he was the only one around. “Where’s Jacob?”

“Mrs. Valentine’s feeling unwell, so he sent her to the hospital. He asked me to take care of you.”

There was a lot of food on the table, including buns and milk.

“Your cooking’s pretty good, especially the buns,” Wyatt praised.

The housekeeper replied, “Mrs. Valentine taught me how to make them.”

Upon hearing that, Wyatt raised his eyebrow. “When did Jacob hire you? What does his girlfriend look like? Is she pretty?”

“I’ve been caring for her here for a long time.” The housekeeper sighed. “While she’s beautiful, and her personality’s pleasant, her eyes… She can’t see, and Mr. Valentine rarely visits. I know they sleep in separate rooms, and he doesn’t care about her that much. However, her eyes aren’t working well, and she’s pregnant. He has to look after her well for the baby’s sake. You’re friends with Mr. Valentine. Please advise him to do that.”

There’s no way I have the time to pay attention to Jacob’s matter when I’m dealing with my own stuff right now. Besides, Jacob settled her here and rarely visits. Clearly, he’s not taking her seriously. What can I possibly say to change his mind? Still… I pity her, and the housekeeper genuinely seems to care for her…

Wyatt merely responded non-committally to the housekeeper’s words.

After he finished his breakfast, he was ready to leave the house and the country.

He thought it’d be pointless for him to stick around any longer since he still couldn’t find Jessica after such a long time. He had a lot of company matters to attend to.

“You’re not waiting for Mr. Valentine to return?”

“No. I’ve booked my plane ticket already.” Wyatt went to grab his coat. “Tell him that I left when he returns.”

“All right.”

When Wyatt grabbed his coat and was about to leave, he accidentally saw an oil painting hanging on the wall.

It was a painting of a sunflower.

Seeing that triggered a flashback. Jessica also likes to draw sunflowers. She almost burned her sunflower painting when we had our argument that day. Not only that, she treated me even colder after what happened. I don’t know where the sunflower pendant she gifted me is, either. The more he thought about it, the more irritated he became.

After taking a few steps away from the painting, he turned back, grabbed the painting, and transferred some money into Jacob’s account to consider him buying it.

Jacob brought Jessica to the hospital. The doctor examined her and said she was fine and that her body was just a little weak.

The doctor subtly reminded, “You and your wife appear quite young, Sir. If you aren’t in a hurry to have a child, you should wait until after her body has recuperated. What do you think?”

Jacob was stunned for a moment. He rubbed his nose awkwardly upon understanding what the doctor was referring to. “I’ll ask her about it.”

“Very well. I shall take my leave now.”

After Jacob paid the medical fee, he returned to the ward and saw Jessica had woken up.

Instead of being subtle as the doctor, he cut straight to the chase. “The doctor said your body’s not doing well and suggested you abort the child.”

For a long period, she remained silent.

She caressed her abdomen and said, “I eat well every day, and a doctor visited me before for a check- up. Why is my body still so weak?”

While he could tell she wanted to keep the child, he was confused. “Why do you still want to keep the child despite how your boyfriend treats you? Do you still love him?”

Instead of answering the question, Jessica turned to look outside the window.

A long silence ensued before she uttered hoarsely, “Let me give it a try. If I can’t keep the child, I’ll let them go.” I’ve lost two children, yet the heavens still don’t grant me any favors.

Seeing how upset she appeared, Jacob didn’t say anything in response. After she felt better, he took her back home.

The housekeeper informed, “Your friend left after he had his breakfast. He told me to let you know that.”

“He ate my food and slept in my room, yet he didn’t even say thank you!” he grumbled. Then, when he saw the empty wall, he asked, “Where’s the painting on this wall?”

“You mean the sunflower Mrs. Valentine painted? I think your friend took it.”

That rendered him speechless. That shameless b*stard! I can’t believe he took my stuff when he left!

Pursing her lips, Jessica smiled. “It’s just a painting. I feel honored that he likes it.”

“But you spent so much effort drawing it!” Jacob sighed, patted her head, and changed the topic. “Rest well today. I’ll bring you out for a picnic tomorrow.”

She froze for a moment before nodding.

When Jacob had time to check his phone, he realized Wyatt had transferred him a rather large sum of money, which cheered him up. “That’s more like it!”

He used that money to buy a lot of clothes for Jessica and transferred the rest to her card.

The reason he did it was that he was worried he wouldn’t be around if she was in trouble. If she needed help, she could use the money on the card.

For the next few days, Jacob took her for a picnic, shopped with her, and then spent time with her on a yacht. He did all that in hopes of lifting her mood.

Unbeknownst to them, someone had been following them.

After he stayed in Yartran for a week, his company summoned him back to Chanaea.

He asked the housekeeper to take good care of Jessica and hurriedly returned to the country.

The day after he left, Jessica’s phone rang.

 

 

 

Chapter 538

As Jessica’s phone only had two contacts, Hazel’s and Jacob’s, she thought Hazel had called her and answered her phone.

“Ms. Jessica Marsh.” The voice on the other end didn’t sound like Hazel or Jacob.

Clearly, they weren’t the ones calling her.

Upon hearing that the person was calling her by her real name, Jessica asked with a frown, “Who are you?”

“Who I am is not important. What’s important is what I’m about to tell you.” The man on the other end snickered. “Did you know your aunt and uncle are already dead while you’re living happily in Yartran?”

“What are you saying?” Jessica barked. “I don’t know how you know my name, but I don’t know you! Also, my aunt and uncle are doing well! You don’t need to worry about them!”

“Ms. Marsh, did you not suspect why your uncle was beaten up back then?”

“What do you mean?”

“It means I know everything. I pity you, which is why I want to tell you the truth, Ms. Marsh.” The man paused before speaking one word at a time in a sinister voice. “I bet you don’t know Mr. Lopez was the one who gave us the address and asked us to pay Oliver a visit. He also told us to get your location out of Oliver by any means necessary.” He sighed. “We didn’t want to hurt him too badly, but we couldn’t go against our employer’s wishes. If I didn’t send you a text message in secret asking you to head over to his place, your uncle would’ve been done for. I just didn’t expect your aunt to get into a car accident. That has nothing to do with us.”

“You’re lying! Shut up! Shut! Up!” Jessica’s hand was trembling, but she still managed to speak calmly. “My aunt and uncle are being taken care of. You don’t need to worry about them.”

Then, she ended the call hastily. However, she was still panicking because she was worried what the man said was true.

She wanted to dial Rayna’s number, but she was so distraught that she forgot her number.

As Jessica tightened her grip on her phone, trying to recall the number, it rang again.

She answered the call and realized it was still from the same man. “I called you because I felt guilty, and I happened to have your number, Ms. Marsh. If you don’t believe me, you can ask your friends in Norwal City about it.”

Composedly, she asked, “Who’s Mr. Lopez?”

“Stop joking around, Ms. Marsh. You know who Mr. Lopez is and why he sent us to your uncle’s house.”

Wyatt? Jessica hung up the phone. That’s impossible. Even if he can’t find me, I doubt that he’s cruel enough to hurt my aunt and uncle. Then again, he did threaten me in the past that if I escaped, he’d hurt them.

“Don’t think I’m joking with you right now, Jessica! There’s nothing I can’t do!” It was as though Wyatt’s threat was repeating next to her ears, which sent a shiver down her spine.

In response, she asked her the AI assistant on her phone to call Jacob as her hands shook uncontrollably.

She bit her fingernails forcefully to calm herself down while waiting for him to pick up the call.

“What’s the matter?”

“Mr. Valentine, can you help me investigate two people?” Her voice was quivering as she spoke. “One’s called Oliver Marsh, and the other… Their identification numbers are…”

Upon sensing something was wrong based on her tone, he quickly asked, “Okay, I’ll ask someone to look into them. Are you all right?”

“I-I’m fine.” Jessica forced herself to calm down. “Tell me what you find about them when you do.”

“I will. Don’t panic, all right?”

Meanwhile, a professional assistant entered the CEO’s office of Lopez Group and reported to the man sitting at the office table, “We still haven’t gotten any leads, Mr. Lopez.”

“Goddamnit!” Wyatt was enraged to hear that and hurled his pen toward the assistant. “I’m only asking you all to search for a woman! What the heck are you all doing?”

The assistant responded aggrievedly, “We’re still looking for her, but we’ll find her.”

“Then go find her! Why are you here?”

“There’s something I need to tell you.” The assistant informed carefully, “While searching for Ms. Marsh, we discovered her aunt and uncle had passed away. Their ashes are being kept at a funeral home.”

Wyatt grimaced. “How did they die?”

“I heard her aunt died in a car crash.” Seeing that Wyatt wasn’t getting angry, the assistant promptly reported everything. “When I was investigating their deaths, I learned from their neighbor that someone

assaulted them in their home that night. The surveillance cameras were destroyed, so I couldn’t find out who the ones responsible were.”

“This is a premeditated act!” Wyatt slammed his hand on the table. “Ask the police to help out. Check the surveillance camera footage on the streets near their home. Find out who the attackers are!” I knew she used my phone that night and transferred some money, but I didn’t reveal to her I was aware of what she did. I stopped paying attention to her aunt and uncle because I thought they had left the country. Their deaths are certainly unexpected.

Because of the news, he felt very exasperated throughout the whole day. He even wondered why Jessica didn’t return to Norwal City after she had learned of their deaths.

Then, someone called him.

“I’ll meet you at the club later tonight, Wyatt!” Jacob said gleefully. “I got a business I want to discuss with you. You’re definitely going to be happy with the price!”

“Like heck I will! I’m not in the mood!”

“Oh, come one. You still have to make money even if you’re upset. Consider doing it as compensation for the painting you stole from me.”

“Didn’t you receive my money? I didn’t steal it from you!”

“Hey, that painting was drawn by a master artist! It’s an invaluable piece of art!” Jacob grumbled. “Besides, I was the one who took you back to my house when you got drunk that night in Yartran. Am I not a good friend?”

“Shut up!” Wyatt was annoyed by his friend’s insistence. “I’ll head over there tonight!”

Jacob chuckled. “Great! I’ll be waiting for you.”

After Wyatt took care of his matters in the company, he left the building at half past seven and headed to the club.

Jacob arrived at around the same time with a few guests. After he took them to the restaurant for dinner, he received a text from Wyatt announcing his arrival. He took Wyatt to the restaurant and introduced him to the guests.

The guests knew who Wyatt was. After exchanging some pleasantries, they had dinner and went to a private room to discuss business.

Upon listening to their proposal, Wyatt was quite interested in the collaboration. They discussed the details and eventually decided to sign the contract on Wednesday.

Once that was done, they had fun eating and drinking.

After wrapping up his conversation with the guests, Jacob approached Wyatt and winked. “What do you think? I was right about the money, wasn’t I? I’m such a good friend for sharing this lucrative opportunity with you. Don’t you agree?”

Wyatt sneered, “Don’t be smart with me!”

“I treat you as my buddy, so don’t treat me as a tool, all right?” Jacob draped an arm around his friend’s neck. “Celebrate like always?”

Wyatt shoved his arm away. “All right.”

“Let’s toast to our friendship!” Jacob beamed as he clinked his glass with Wyatt’s even though the latter was ignoring him.

After Jacob took two sips, the phone in his pocket vibrated.

He took out his phone and read the text he had received. His expression changed drastically.

Upon telling Wyatt he was going out to get some fresh air, he left the room, found a quiet spot, and called Jessica.

The call connected quickly. In a panic, she asked, “Did you find out anything about them, Mr. Valentine?”

 

 

 

 

Chapter 539

“Are you closely related to these two persons?”

“Yes!” Jessica continued to ask, “Where are they now? Are they okay?”

Jacob hesitated briefly before answering, “I sent someone to check and received some information. One died from serious injuries at the hospital, while the other passed away in a car accident. Both were cremated, and their ashes are placed at the funeral home.”

Silence ensued for a while after Jacob finished speaking.

“Josie, are you all right?” Jacob asked worryingly.

“They are… dead?” Jessica responded after a long while with a stammer. “Both are dead?”

Jacob hurriedly answered, “There’re many people with the same name in the country. Could it be that you gave me the wrong ID card numbers? Perhaps you’d like to verify the info again; I can always check again on my end.”

“No, it can’t be wrong… The ID card numbers are correct…” Jessica suddenly began to sob. “How can they be dead… They were the only family members I had left in this world…”

Jacob smacked his head after realizing his recklessness.

If he had known Jessica was asking about her family members, he would not have told her the truth directly.

“Relax for now, Josie. It might be a mistake on my end,” Jacob gently comforted her. “I’ll ask my men to check again. It’s my fault. I shouldn’t have said anything without verifying the facts first.”

The sobs on the other end of the phone had already turned into loud wails, drowning Jacob’s voice.

It was a heart-wrenching cry that made Jacob anxious and upset.

He hung up the phone and called the housekeeper taking care of Jessica to head upstairs and check on her while making his way to the private room.

Upon entering the private room, Jacob apologized profusely, “I’m sorry, everyone. I need to leave now as I have an urgent flight to take. Please continue to have fun.”

He found his jacket on the couch and prepared to leave.

Wyatt glanced at Jacob. “You’re going to Yartran to find your girl?”

“Yes. I said something wrong and made her cry… So I got to make amends. Argh, what a nuisance!” Jacob scratched his head in frustration. “Anyway, they’re your guests. It’s only right that you entertain them.”

Wyatt could not be bothered to respond and looked away.

In a hurry, Jacob did not realize he had grabbed his jacket the wrong way. As such, something dropped out of it as he walked.

It bounced on the carpet a few times before landing near Wyatt’s shoe.

The private room was rather brightly lit. Thus, it was not difficult for Wyatt to spot the item that had rolled to his feet. He bent over and picked it up.

Wyatt’s eyes widened when he saw the sunflower pendant made of gems on the carpet.

It was the pendant gifted to him by Jessica.

He was sure it was the same pendant as the sales associate at Van Cleef & Arpels mentioned that it was the only piece in the world!

Seeing Wyatt help to pick up his item, Jacob approached him and wanted to take it back. “Thanks, Wyatt. I’m leaving—”

“Where did you get this pendant from!” Wyatt interrupted Jacob. Holding on to the pendant tightly, he had no intention of returning it to the latter. “Who sold this to you?”

Jacob was taken aback by Wyatt’s abrupt uproar and his ferocious expression.

He thought Wyatt was joking around with him and replied tiredly, “Stop fooling around. I must leave now.” With that, he reached out for the sunflower pendant.

Wyatt grabbed Jacob’s wrist with his other hand. Gritting his teeth, he demanded, “Answer me. Where did you get this from!”

“D*mn it, that hurts!” Jacob shouted in pain. He thought that his wrist was about to be snapped by Wyatt. “It’s a gift from my wife. Wyatt, don’t f*cking tell me that you have your eye on it. I’m not selling it.”

“Where did your wife get it from?” Wyatt continued to question. “What’s her name?”

“I don’t know!” Jacob was still gasping in pain. “Let go of me first. You’re going to break my hand, d*mn it.”

“What’s her name!”

Jacob yelled again in pain as Wyatt tightened his grip once more. He gave up and replied, “Josie. Her name is Josie.”

“Josie…” As Wyatt mumbled the name, he realized it was similar to “Jessie” and suddenly thought of the sunflower painting he had brought back earlier. At the thought of that, his breathing became rapid.

“The painting that I brought back. Was it drawn by her?”

Jacob was shocked. “How… How did you know that?”

I knew it!

Wyatt did not expect the person he had been searching for so long was actually near him all along.

At one point, they were merely separated by a wall!

“Bring me to her!” Wyatt forcefully dragged Jacob and left with hurried steps.

He pulled out his phone and called his assistant, ordering him to arrange for a private jet quickly.

Jacob apologized to the remaining guests in the room and gestured to them to continue eating and drinking.

The man was in a state of confusion after being dragged out by Wyatt without an explanation. “Say, Wyatt. Why are you looking for my wife so urgently? Did she steal this pendant?”

Wyatt turned around and stared at him with a sullen expression. He gritted his teeth and shouted, “The pendant is not the only thing she stole!”

Jacob was dumbfounded.

What is Wyatt implying? Don’t tell me Josie is a serial offender who often steals.

Nonetheless, Jacob did not dare to provoke Wyatt, given his hostility.

When the private jet arrived, Jacob boarded it as told. He did not dare to question anything.

The Shadow, borrowed from the military base, was a supersonic aircraft; it took only three hours to reach Yartran.

The private jet landed on a spacious field. Its engine produced a loud swirling sound, and the downdraft almost caused the grass to be blown away.

As Jacob alighted the plane, he was about to comment on how amazing the ride was when he saw Wyatt striding toward the house.

Wyatt did not bother to press the doorbell. Instead, he reached for a fire extinguisher nearby and used it to smash the lock with immense force.

“What the h*ll are you doing? Are you crazy!” Jacob ran toward him, stunned.

Before Jacob could scold him, Wyatt had already destroyed the lock and barged into the house.

Has he gone bonkers? Why is he in such a hurry? Jacob cursed at Wyatt under his breath while trying to catch up with him.

After reaching the second floor, he finally found Wyatt in the master bedroom. Jessica was also inside, sitting by the bed, shielded by a trembling housekeeper.

The housekeeper was so relieved to see Jacob. “Mr. Valentine, y-your friend here…”

“It’s all right. He just had too much to drink.” Jacob hurriedly went to pull Wyatt away and calmed him down. “Hey, look at how you are scaring them. Can you calm down first? How much has she stolen from you? I’ll compensate you accordingly.”

“Get your hands off me!” Wyatt pushed Jacob away with all his might. His gaze remained fixed on the woman behind the housekeeper.

To think that she had been hiding here during this long period while he was searching for her.

This d*mned woman!

Wyatt’s chest rose and fell intensely. Forgetting what he had said before, he strode toward both women, pushed the housekeeper aside, and yanked Jessica off the bed.

“You’re f*cking good at hiding, huh? Well?” Wyatt yelled in Jessica’s face.

Wyatt’s rage was ignited when he saw Jessica lowering her head and keeping silent. “I’ll break both your legs when we get back. Then we’ll see how you can run away then!”

Jacob reacted immediately and rushed forward to stop him.

“Wyatt, are you out of your mind? She’s pregnant and blind. Why are you being so fierce to her?”

“Mine!” Wyatt hollered at Jacob.

Jacob was taken aback. “Yours? What do you mean?”

“She and the child—they’re mine!” Wyatt grabbed Jacob’s shirt and pulled the latter to his face. He stared at Jacob with bloodshot eyes and asked, “Did you touch her?”

“S-She… She’s the one you’ve been looking for?” Jacob glanced at Jessica and asked. He was in a daze and did not understand what was going on.

Wyatt’s face inched so close to Jacob’s that he could feel the former’s breath. Gritting his teeth, Wyatt questioned again, “Did you touch her?”

Terrified by Wyatt’s outburst, Jacob started trembling and replied with a stammer, “N-No…”

 

 

 

Chapter 540

After receiving a reply, Wyatt brushed Jacob off violently and carried Jessica outside with a darkened expression.

The housekeeper was frightened and asked in a trembling voice, “S-Sir, what happened?”

Jacob scrambled from the floor and ran after Wyatt. He grabbed Wyatt, who was about to leave through the door. “Wyatt, if she’s the one you have been finding, look at what she has become!”

“Let go of me!” Wyatt looked at him.

“Let her go. We can have a proper discussion then.” Jacob had grown fond of Jessica after interacting with her and observing her become more cheerful with each passing day.

He was worried Jessica would suffer since Wyatt seemed to have lost his mind.

He felt sorry for her.

“I ask you to let go of me! Don’t force me to hit you,” Wyatt bellowed, the look in his eyes grim.

Jacob did not let go of Wyatt, forcing the latter to stay. “Wyatt, let me give you a piece of advice. She’s not in the right state to leave with you. You should let her choose whether she wants to leave.”

Since Jacob refused to let him leave, Wyatt lost his cool and kicked Jacob in the chest, sending the latter flying away.

Jacob slammed against the wall, letting out two pained coughs.

Wyatt didn’t even cast him a glance as he walked away with Jessica. Outside, the whirling sounds of helicopter rotors could be heard.

Soon, the helicopter left.

Jacob couldn’t get up for a long time. He lay on the ground and massaged the area where he was kicked, inhaling sharply. “This b*stard went all out on me…”

D*mn it! I should have gone for training!

Jessica did not say anything on the way back to Norwal City. She was curled up in the seat with her head lowered as if she was in a trance. Wyatt kept glancing at her with a darkened expression.

The helicopter arrived at Zenisan Villa and landed on a helipad behind the artificial lake.

The housekeepers in Zenisan Villa had not left yet, so when the doorbell rang, one of the housekeepers ran over to open the door. She got a fright when she saw Wyatt carrying a woman.

“M-Mr. Lopez.”

Wyatt ignored her and carried Jessica up the stairs.

Another housekeeper who arrived later asked the housekeeper who had opened the door, “Mr. Lopez has arrived, and he does not appear pleased. Who is he carrying in his arms?”

She replied, “It seems like Ms. Marsh.”

The two housekeepers shared a look. They were aware that their days would no longer be peaceful.

After entering the bedroom, Wyatt placed Jessica on the couch and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt. “Why did you run away? Tell me.”

Jessica’s head was still lowered. It was as though she didn’t hear him.

“Jessica, I’m asking you a question!” Wyatt squatted in front of her and grabbed her by her chin tightly, forcing her to look at him.

A pair of large gorgeous, but lifeless eyes greeted him. Her face was covered in dried tears.

She couldn’t see Wyatt at all.

Wyatt sensed something amiss with her and suddenly remembered Jacob said that Jessica could no longer see. He felt a pang in his heart as frustration overwhelmed him.

“I’m sorry. I was too impulsive,” Wyatt replied softly and held her hand.

It hurt him to feel her ice-cold hands.

When he found Jessica, he promised he wouldn’t get mad at her. Nevertheless, he lost all reasoning the moment he saw her.

Wyatt held her hand close to his lips and kissed it. He said gently, “Let’s stop fighting and live our lives properly. I promise I won’t get angry at you anymore.”

Jessica remained silent, so Wyatt stood up and hugged her. “Jessie, please reply to me. I know I was in the wrong. You can hit or scold me however you want.”

She was so skinny because she had lost so much weight. Wyatt’s heart felt as if it had been stabbed by a dagger.

“I forgive you. Let bygones be bygones.” Wyatt nestled his head in her neck. He breathed in her familiar scent, finally at ease.

No matter what Wyatt said, Jessica simply kept quiet.

Wyatt was not in a hurry. He held her face and kissed her. “Jessie, please talk to me.”

He didn’t like how cold she was and how she ignored him.

Jessica opened her mouth and struggled to form her words. “I-I’m sorry. I’ll listen to you…”

The smile on Wyatt’s face stiffened.

Jessica grabbed onto his clothes and started crying uncontrollably. She pleaded, “I-I will never run away again. I promise I’ll listen to you obediently. I’ll do whatever you want me to do.”

Her tears fell into her mouth. She continued to beg in a hoarse voice, “Please let Uncle Oliver and Aunt Danielle go.”

“They are dead.”

Jessica suddenly started screaming, “No! They aren’t dead! You must be hiding them! Please! I beg you! Let them go!”

She waved her hands in the air as she struggled to get out of his arms.

Before Wyatt could react, Jessica kneeled in front of him. “I’ll never run away again. I promise I will stay by your side obediently. P-Please let them go…”

Her misty eyes were swollen and red from the crying.

She could not see where Wyatt was but still tried to grovel before him.

Wyatt quickly stopped her. He was so livid to the point that his chest heaved violently. “Jessica, do you think I’m that heartless to hurt your loved ones?”

Jessica was still begging, “Please. I’m willing to do whatever it takes if you let them go.”

A mocking smile appeared on his face.

The first person she suspects after learning about her uncle’s and aunt’s deaths is me! She doesn’t trust me at all! She doesn’t know how much I care for her.

As Wyatt wasn’t saying anything, Jessica waved her hands in the air until she touched his shirt. She started to unbutton his shirt with trembling hands.

Wyatt grabbed onto her hands.

Jessica jumped in fright. “I’ll never run away again. I’ll give you whatever you want.”

“Stop sobbing! D*mn it!” Wyatt was frustrated by her cowardly demeanor and undignified begging. “If you keep crying, I’ll kick you out!”

Jessica immediately bit her lips to stop herself from crying.

Wyatt noticed that she was too tense. Her back was drenched with sweat, causing her clothes to be wet, so he carried her to the bathroom.

He pressed a button to run a bath before uttering to Jessica, “Take off your clothes!”

Jessica immediately pulled the zipper on her dress without hesitation.

She quickly removed her clothes.

When Wyatt turned around, he saw Jessica hugging herself as she was stark naked.

Although she had a fair-skinned and smooth complexion, she was too thin. The slight bump on her stomach signified that she was still pregnant.

Wyatt cursed, “Do you not know to wrap yourself with a towel after taking off your clothes?”

He felt regretful right after he scolded her.

How could she take a towel herself since she couldn’t see anything?

Wyatt took a towel and wrapped it around her before turning on the heater.

After filling the tub with water, he checked the temperature before letting Jessica enter it.

However, Jessica grabbed onto his hand. She was trembling as she pleaded softly, “Can we do this somewhere else?”

Wyatt knew what she meant and immediately got upset.

However, he thought about how he had humiliated her before. He had not cared about what she was feeling and only cared about venting his anger on her.

He felt a lump in his throat. It took him a while before he could say anything. “You’re dirty. Let me help you bathe.”