Ch. 171..180

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 171

Samuel: I’ll come back tonight.

Kathleen: Are you done with work?

Samuel: I miss you.

He badly wanted to return to her side and protect her.

Before he could even deal with Christopher, Caleb showed up.

Samuel was not even close to dying, yet there were already so many people lining up to take his place.

Kathleen: You don’t have to worry about me.

Samuel: It’s fine. It’s all settled.

Kathleen: I’m going to wash up now.

Samuel: Okay.

Although he believed that she was not a woman of easy virtue, he was still worried that she might have feelings for Caleb.

Perhaps, Kathleen had been more reserved when it came to Christopher because of Samuel.

However, Caleb was different.

He was totally unrelated to Samuel. There was no blood relationship between them, and they were not competing against each other in their respective businesses.

Kathleen would not need to worry about anything. There was even a chance that she might actually consider Caleb as a potential partner.

As such, Samuel was incredibly tormented by that thought.

He wanted to go back as quickly as possible, but he still had to finish his tasks on hand.

At noon, there was a business luncheon organized by his business partner.

Samuel attended the event in a black suit, looking refined yet aloof. There seemed to be a cold aura radiating off his body.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Macari,” a sexy lady greeted him as she approached. She was seductively dressed in a long, red dress with spaghetti straps.

Her hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her lips matched the fiery red color of her dress. She looked incredibly alluring and enchanting.

Samuel stared at her impassively.

“Have you forgotten who I am?” she asked, her attractive lips quirking up.

“Should I know who you are?” he questioned back frowningly.

“I’m Scarlett Harrison, Kathleen’s friend from high school.” She smiled faintly. “We met when I visited the Macari residence.”

“Doesn’t ring a bell.” The man was still as distant as ever.

“I wonder if you’ve taken a look at this morning’s trending news, Mr. Macari. I never imagined that Kathleen would turn out this way,” Scarlett remarked with a meaningful smile.

“This way?”

“That’s right.” She knitted her brows. “She’s such a promiscuous woman, seducing so many men. Is that what a proper lady should be doing?”

Samuel wanted to drink, but Kathleen had instructed him not to.

Therefore, he was only holding a glass just for show.

He would listen to Kathleen, even if she were not with him.

“Mr. Macari, I know you want to reconcile with Kathleen, but you have to think it through. She’s merely using you.” Scarlett scrutinized his handsome countenance.

I must say Kathleen’s really lucky to have shared a bed with such a good-looking man for three years. I wonder how enjoyable it is for her in bed every night.

She had been pining after Samuel ever since the first time they met.

Unfortunately, there were so many obstacles in her way of interacting with him, such as Kathleen.

Moreover, she was not that close to Kathleen, so there was next to no chance of chancing upon Samuel.

Now that she had finally met the man, there was no way she would let this opportunity slip.

“Mr. Macari, Kathleen told me once that she was only clinging onto you because your family is rich and powerful. She’s a greedy woman who wants to covet your family’s wealth. She doesn’t even love you.” Scarlett began sowing discord. ”Otherwise, she would not have gotten into ambiguous relationships with so many men right after coming back. She’s simply trying to boost her fame.”

A cold glint flashed across Samuel’s eyes. “Why don’t you tell that to Kathleen’s face?”

She instantly stiffened.

“Do you dare to confront her?” he asked frostily.

Right then, everyone started looking at them.

“Do you have a death wish? How dare you insult her in front of me?” Samuel’s deep voice was chilly and ominous.

Scarlett blanched.

“She is not tied to anyone and has the freedom to be with whomever she wants. I love her and will continue to protect her regardless of who she chooses. This isn’t something people like you can use to drive a wedge between us. If I ever hear you insulting her again, I’ll make sure that you won’t have a place in this industry,” he threatened.

The woman was rooted to the ground, unable to move an inch.

“Tyson!” Samuel shouted sternly.

“Yes, Mr. Macari.” Tyson walked over.

“Tell Mr. Simmons I won’t hesitate to terminate our partnership if he dares to pull such a thing again.”

“Yes!” Tyson nodded.

Samuel then left in long strides while Tyson immediately went to look for Elijah Simmons.

Once Elijah heard what had happened, he instantly broke into a cold sweat.

“It really wasn’t me who arranged for Scarlett to attend the luncheon, Mr. Hackney!” he hurriedly explained.

“Mr. Simmons, Scarlett Harrison is your employee. Do you think I won’t be able to see right through your decision of selecting her to attend this event?” Tyson rebuked.

They were merely devils trying to pretend to be angels.

It was apparent that they had wanted to make use of Scarlett’s beauty.

At that, Elijah became utterly awkward.

“Handle the rest of the matter on your own,” Tyson added before turning around to leave.

“Yes, yes.” Elijah wiped the sweat off his forehead.

He then called for Scarlett and gave her a harsh slap. “Useless! Didn’t you say that everything will go just fine?”

She held her face in silence.

“You even said you knew Samuel and told me he would show you respect!” Elijah berated. “In the end, you’re nothing but a liar!”

Scarlett gritted her teeth in rage, not reflecting on her mistakes at all.

Instead, she placed all the blame on Kathleen.

It was during the afternoon break when Kathleen saw the trending news.

Samuel Macari Caught Scolding Someone

Is Kathleen Johnson Worth It?

Samuel Macari Bullying A Woman

She turned to Charles when she read the headlines. “Can you get someone to remove these?”

“Let him settle it himself.” The latter was in the middle of playing a game.

“But Samuel did this to protect me,” she replied with furrowed brows.

“That is what he should have done,” he said sternly. “He never protected you when you were with him. Are you moved just because he defended you publicly once? Get a grip!”

Kathleen was rendered speechless.

“Don’t worry. The news only just started trending. It’ll definitely be gone once you refresh the page,” he continued.

Just as her brother said, the news had disappeared when she refreshed it.

She breathed a sigh of relief.

At that moment, Christopher called.

“Aren’t you going to get that?” Charles glanced at his sister, who was hesitating to pick up.

After a brief moment of contemplation, she answered the call. “Hello, Chris.”

“Did you really go to the Lewis residence yesterday?” Christopher asked in a vague voice.

“Yes.” Kathleen nodded.

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line. “Caleb does not seem to have any scandals so far. There was never any news of his girlfriend or partner. If you choose to be with him—”

“Chris,” she interrupted him. “You have friends of the opposite gender too, right?”

“Mm,” he replied after a moment.

“I’m only platonic friends with Caleb,” she stated. “Just like what he explained, I only went to his house to get something. It’s that simple.”

“I understand,” he responded softly.

“Good. Thank you for your concern.”

Christopher felt like Kathleen was trying to distance herself from him.

Ever since Felix got in the way, she had become especially polite toward him.

In the beginning, he was confident that there could be something between them.

However, it would now be difficult to go back to how things were previously.

Christopher was worried, afraid, and at a loss for what to do next.

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 172

“Kate,” Christopher rumbled her name.

“What is it?” Kathleen asked in mild confusion.

That tone of his was far too gentle.

“I’m jealous,” he admitted in a hoarse voice. “I know there isn’t actually anything going on between you two, but I still got angry when I saw the news.”

His words left her stunned.

“You’re a smart lady. I’m sure you know my feelings for you,” he continued with a gulp. “If you don’t fancy Caleb, please give him a proper rejection, all right?”

Kathleen’s head was throbbing uncontrollably.

“There’s seriously nothing between us, Chris. I swear,” she insisted in helplessness.

“Mm, I believe you.” His voice was low as a mumble. “If there’s anything you need, come look for me, not him.”

“He sells medicinal herbs, though. I can only look for him.”

“I’ll be the middleman for you two, then,” Christopher suggested meaningfully. “You don’t have to interact with him.”

Subtle discomfort was starting to tug at the woman’s heart. “I have my own social life too. I don’t want anyone to interfere with whom I talk to and what I do with them.”

That made the man pause.

“I don’t like the feeling of being controlled. I mean, do I really have to get your permission for everything I do?” she added flatly. “I hope you understand what I mean.”

Even though Samuel had refused to publicize her identity back when they were together, he had never tried to control her in any way.

It was true that Kathleen had a docile and obedient personality.

Nonetheless, that didn’t mean she would simply let someone else dictate her life.

Christopher was aware that he had crossed the line.

“I’m sorry. That was insensitive of me,” he murmured, knowing he had gotten ahead of himself.

He had been in too much of a hurry to get rid of all the uncertainties.

In the process of doing so, he had pushed Kathleen past her limits.

“I’m hanging up.” With that, she ended the call, leaving Christopher dumbstruck.

Charles eyed his sister and piped up, “Christopher must be heartbroken.”

“I don’t like it when people try to interfere with my life,” she declared impassively.

“He’s just a little too possessive.” Charles tried to defend Christopher.

That made her get to her feet. “Why should I have to sacrifice my social life for his possessiveness?”

Her reply left him dazed.

“He’s using the fact that he likes me as an excuse to do things that I disapprove of. Don’t you think that’s disrespectful of him?” she continued to point out while gazing down at her brother. “Do you guys think I’m some kind of toy?”

After saying that, she turned to leave.

Meanwhile, Charles was still stupefied.

It’s over. Christopher really pissed her off this time.

“Kath—” He wanted to stop her.

Unfortunately, Kathleen was already gone.

Charles began to scratch his head, sensing an incoming storm.

Kathleen filmed an entire night and finally knocked off work at two in the morning.

She returned to the lounge to get changed, then walked out of the film set.

Charles approached her and asked, “Darling, do you want to get some fondue?”

However, she merely ignored him, got into the Alphard, and shut the door.

Unable to get into the vehicle, Charles was on the verge of tears. “I’m sorry, Kathleen!”

Instead of responding, Kathleen looked right at the driver and ordered coldly, “Start the car. We’re going home.”

The driver didn’t dare to disobey, so he immediately started the engine.

As much as Charles wanted to cry, no tears would come out.

It seemed that his sister was seriously enraged right then.

She closed her eyes to rest in the car until they got to the Johnson residence.

When the driver told her they had arrived, she finally opened her eyes and got out of the vehicle.

Samuel’s voice sounded right as she was about to head into the residence.

“Kate,” he called out in his husky voice.

Upon hearing that, Kathleen turned around and saw the man in a black suit slowly making his way toward her.

“I’m back.” He stood in front of her, startled by the look on her face. “Who on Earth made you so angry?”

Her expression was one of intense displeasure.

At that moment, the headlights of a car flashed on them.

Kathleen turned around to take a glance, then turned back to him and questioned, “Have you eaten yet?”

Samuel shook his head in response.

“Neither have I. I have some ingredients at home. Would you fancy some fondue?” she suggested with a brow arched.

“Sure,” he agreed while nodding.

“Come on in, then.”

He obediently followed her in.

Either way, he would do whatever she asked him to.

Once Charles got out of the car and saw Kathleen bringing Samuel into the house, his heart skipped a beat. He instantly chased after the duo.

Kathleen took her coat off. “Have a seat. I’ll go get things ready in the kitchen.”

Samuel took the coat from her and hung it up on the rack. “I’ll help you out. It’ll be faster if we both do it together.”

With a nod, she accepted his offer.

Thus, he took off his own coat and hung it up as well before following her into the kitchen.

Kathleen opened up the fridge, which was packed to the brim with anything one could ever need.

She chose a few of the ingredients inside.

Both of them preferred food with a milder taste, so she decided not to make the fondue overly sweet.

Samuel helped her with rinsing the ingredients while she prepared the other things.

Neither of them spoke to each other.

Meanwhile, Charles soundlessly observed them from the doorway.

Nobody paid any mind to him, and he felt as if he had been abandoned.

The fact that Kathleen had let Samuel inside was actually a form of rebellion and provocation toward Charles.

He knew that he had shot himself in the foot that day.

“I’ll help out too,” he suggested softly.

“You don’t have to rinse that many of the ingredients, Samuel. It’s just the two of us eating, after all,” Kathleen reminded.

Charles was dumbfounded to hear that.

Samuel hesitated for a moment. He looked at Charles briefly, then shifted his gaze away. “Mm.”

They left Charles frozen in place.

In the meantime, the duo finished up the preparations.

Kathleen and Samuel sat at the dining table and began eating the fondue while Charles sat silently at the side.

He picked up a water bottle and twisted it open.

I highly doubt Samuel can resist the urge to ask why Kathleen went to the Lewis residence! Kathleen’s simply too naive. Samuel’s possessiveness is even more terrifying!

“Is the opening ceremony going to be held the day after tomorrow?” Kathleen began.

“Mm. I’ve already told Tyson to get everything ready. It’ll start at ten in the morning the day after tomorrow and end at one in the afternoon.” Samuel’s gaze was murky. “It won’t interfere with your filming schedule.”

“I have to drive there, though. That will cause a significant delay,” she replied while chewing on some food. “I’ve already applied for leave, so all I have to do is get back to the set in the afternoon.”

“It’s not good to keep taking leaves,” Charles commented in a hushed voice.

“It’s fine. If anything, I’ll have a talk with the film crew,” Samuel stated icily. “There’s nothing money can’t solve.”

Charles let out a snort. Is he even hearing himself?

“That’s true. There’s nothing money can’t solve,” Kathleen agreed meaningfully. “You can even kill someone with enough money. All you have to do is hire a hitman to get rid of the person you hate most.”

How terrifying!

Charles, who was sitting next to her, began to tremble.

“Indeed. The scandal between you and Caleb began trending because the Yoeger family kept adding fuel to the fire,” Samuel muttered.

That was within Kathleen’s expectations. “They truly do keep an eye on me at all times.”

“I heard that Old Mrs. Yoeger is ill,” remarked Samuel.

Ill?

“Doesn’t that mean the matters I’ve entrusted to Old Mrs. Macari have gone down the drain?”

“Well, it’s only hearsay.” There was a hidden implication in Samuel’s tone as he went on, “It seems to be quite a complicated illness, though.”

She frowned. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

What exactly has happened to her?

“She’s got Alzheimer’s,” he revealed. “I’m sure you know what that is.”

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 173

Kathleen was taken aback to hear that. “Alzheimer's?”

“That's right,” Samuel affirmed, fixing his frosty gaze on her. “You guys need to set your plan in motion right now. Otherwise, if Old Mrs. Yoeger really loses her memory, then things might take a bad turn for you two.”

She nodded. “Mm, I got it.”

Even so, he continued staring intently at her.

“What? Is there something on my face?” She put down her fork and started patting her own cheeks.

He merely shook his head lightly.

“Ha!” Charles scoffed. “He obviously wants to ask what you did at the Lewis residence last night!”

Upon hearing that, Kathleen turned to Samuel.

“Didn't Caleb already explain it?” Samuel uttered indifferently. “He said Kate went there to get some medicine.”

“You're unbelievable, Samuel Macari. That look in your eyes just now made it so obvious that you were contemplating whether to ask my sister about her relationship with Caleb!” Charles grumbled.

“I trust her when it comes to that,” Samuel countered with composure.

Despite that, Charles refused to believe it.

Samuel sure is an expert at pretending to be the good guy.

“When I went to the airport that day, Kate promised to help treat my illness. It was too severe, though, so she wanted to get me a prescription personally. That's why she went looking for Caleb,” Samuel methodically elucidated. “Caleb owns the biggest medicinal herb business in the country, so there are herbs he can get that other people can't. Kate chose him in particular for that very reason.”

Charles was at a loss for words.

Kathleen peered at her brother and taunted, “Hmph. Hear that? Intelligence is a gift. I sure hope you guys have been blessed with it.”

Charles didn't want to respond to that.

A while later, he spoke up once more. “Even if that's the case, aren't you angry or jealous at all?”

“Does it matter if I am? I still don't have the right to stop her,” Samuel stated truthfully.

That only rendered Charles even more speechless. “Keep pretending.”

Samuel eyed Kathleen with a profound stare. “I can process those negative emotions on my own without being vocal about them. I wouldn't do anything that you'd hate, though.”

It wasn't that he didn't have the desire to possess her. He just wouldn't show it.

This b*stard Samuel is too good at acting!

Once they finished eating, Kathleen stood up and started tidying up.

“Just leave it. We can clean up tomorrow. You should go to bed for now,” Charles urged.

Kathleen's cold reply was, “It's none of your business!”

The grievance on Charles' face was unmistakable. “I'm sorry, Kate. I was wrong.”

“Why would you be the one at fault? You're my older brother, aren't you?” she sneered.

“No, no. You have more power than me, actually,” he said with sincerity.

Kathleen didn't intend to pay her brother any more attention. Instead, she turned to Samuel. “I'm going to be filming all day tomorrow. You remember how you promised to tell me why your body turned out like this when you left, don't you?”

“Yeah.” The man nodded.

“We'll go to the morning opening ceremony together in two days. I hope you'll tell me the truth.” She gazed right into his obsidian eyes.

“Mm.”

“Good night,” she murmured.

He got up and responded, “Good night.

Then, he put on his coat and left the Johnson residence.

Charles was utterly flustered.

Is Samuel going to tell Kathleen the truth? Is this no longer going to be kept a secret? Oh no. Everything might be about to come to an end. I have to hurry and inform Christopher!

Following Samuel's departure, Kathleen eyed her brother icily. “I've told you this before, Charles. No matter how horrible Samuel may be, he's never even thought of trying to control me. Get it?”

Her words made him purse his lips.

“Ever since you and Christopher decided to suddenly declare that we were engaged, I've just been tolerating the two of you. I never thought that you both would have such unusual thoughts about what happened with Caleb,” she continued to mock. “Do I not have the right to make my own decisions? Am I supposed to sacrifice my social freedom just because Christopher likes me? Who is he to me, anyway? What right does he have to try and control me? What about you? Why are you speaking up on his behalf?”

Charles didn't dare to utter a word.

“Think about it,” she remarked in an apathetic manner. “I'm going to get some rest.”

He quietly observed as his sister ascended the stairs, then let out a sigh.

Nonetheless, he called Christopher right away.

“It's me, Christopher,” he croaked. “I think Kate is about to find out about that matter.”

“Did Samuel tell her?” Christopher asked after a pause.

“It looks like he's about to,” Charles muttered. “Kate's definitely going to hate us if she finds out.”

Christopher's lips twitched. “There's nothing we can do about that.”

“Are you planning to give up?”

“Do I have another choice?” Christopher said self-deprecatingly. “It wasn't like we could hide this in the first place. Were you really hoping that Samuel would help us keep it under wraps?”

“All right. Since that's what you think, I'm not going to worry about it anymore.” Charles massaged his temples. “Ultimately, she's still my sister, so she won't really ignore me no matter how angry she is. You, on the other hand...”

Christopher fell silent.

Sometime later, he finally replied, “I thought she would start to like me back.”

“If not for your grandfather and Astrid kicking up such a fuss, then maybe that would have been the case,” Charles concurred. “All of this only happened because of them.”

The look on Christopher's face darkened.

What Charles had said was right.

If not for what Felix had done, Kathleen wouldn't have cut Christopher off so cleanly.

She was just too clear-headed, which was why he had always been cautious.

Unfortunately, that caused him to end up missing a lot of opportunities.

If not for Felix and Astrid, he would have won over Kathleen by at least a half, if not all of her.

Meanwhile, Kathleen returned to her room and saw Samuel standing on the balcony across from hers.

She went outside with a shawl wrapped around her.

The man watched her intently. “Did you have a fight with your brother?”

“Mm.” She puffed up her cheeks. “He keeps trying to defend Chris.”

He put both hands down on the cold railing and tightened his grip on it. “Did Christopher try to stop you from interacting with Caleb?”

Kathleen sucked in a deep breath. “Even worse. He told me that if I wanted to buy any medicine from Caleb, I could go through him instead.”

Her explanation baffled Samuel.

“Does he think I'm mute or socially inept?” she raged. “I hate being controlled like that. At first, he and my brother kept trying to keep secrets from me. When they made a public statement saying he was my fiancé, I was already about to explode.”

“Are you not mad at the fact that I've been publicly saying I still have feelings for you, then?” Samuel inquired in a deep voice.

“It's not the same.” She shot him a stern look. “Whether you have feelings for me or not is your own problem. It's not like you're saying I accepted your confession or anything. Since it's your business, I can't stop you from thinking that way. It's different when it comes to them, though. They locked me into a predetermined identity and kept making choices for me. I hate it!”

He could tell that the woman was genuinely infuriated. On top of that, it wasn't the kind of fury that could be quelled by brushing it off with a joke.

“Honestly, even though I know why you went to the Lewis residence, it still bothers me a lot,” he admitted as he gazed at her. “I was worried you'd be attracted to Caleb too.”

She stared back at him without speaking.

“The thing is, I knew I had no right to interfere,” he went on earnestly. “Not that I would ever try to interfere in your life, of course.”

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 174

Kathleen kept her mouth shut.

“As I said, Samuel, how you feel for me is your business. As long as you keep it to yourself, that's fine. There's no need to say it out loud. It'd be a disaster if what you said ended up making the other person uncomfortable.”

Samuel's gaze fixated on her.

“However, Christopher actually said it. That's what pissed me off,” she emphasized. “All I want is for him to respect my wishes instead of trying to make choices for me. Samuel, when I got married to you, Old Mrs. Macari also questioned me over and over again. She only allowed the marriage to happen because she saw I didn't want it any other way.”

He didn't respond to that.

“I messed up too, though,” she confessed bitterly. “You didn't want to marry me, yet I insisted on it. Hence, I don't have the right to criticize anyone else.”

“Do you really think just anyone could force me into anything?” There was a heartfelt look in his gaze. “I was the one who refused to face my true feelings. I liked you, which was why I agreed to marry you. It's not like I felt aggrieved or anything. You don't have to blame yourself.”

All she did was look at him. “You don't have to comfort me.”

“I'm not trying to comfort you, Kate,” he protested with dimmed eyes. “You know I have feelings for you. If I had wanted to take advantage of your guilt, I could have acknowledged the fact that you and Grandma had backed me into a corner. If I had done that, you would have treated me better out of remorse. But I told you before that I would never lie to you. Every word that I'm saying right now is the truth.”

A sense of warmth suddenly wormed its way into Kathleen's heart.

“It's getting really late. You should sleep early too. Good night.” She immediately got up and turned away.

Samuel merely watched her back view without a sound.

He knew he had already conveyed to her the feelings in his heart.

There was no way for him to know what she thought about it, though.

He could only hope he would be more sincere in pursuing Kathleen this time instead of trying to trick her.

Two days later, Kathleen stood in front of the house waiting for Samuel.

He didn't make her wait long. In less than a minute, he had already driven the car out and pulled over in front of her.

She gave him a quick greeting before getting into the vehicle.

In the meantime, Charles stood at the door and observed silently as they left.

At that point, Kathleen had been ignoring him for two consecutive days.

He was so upset that he genuinely could cry.

She turned to glance at her brother and flashed a resigned smile.

Looks like it's about time.

Samuel glimpsed at her. “You guys still haven't made up?”

“It's not that simple. We're getting there, though,” she answered lazily. “As siblings, it wouldn't be beneficial to give him the silent treatment for too long. I just need to teach him a lesson. It's not like I could truly cut ties with him.”

He didn't probe further, so Kathleen side-eyed him.

There was an impenetrable look on his face. “What is it?”

“Are you going to tell me now?” she asked curiously. “Or are you planning to stay quiet for the whole ride?”

The man smirked. “Do you want to hear about it now?”

She nodded.

“Is it okay if I want to do something else first, then?” he queried tentatively.

“Sure.” Kathleen didn't feel like he would do anything over the top.

After all, Tyson was still driving in the front seat.

Samuel's gaze deepened when he heard that.

His long, slender hand reached out to unbutton his suit. Then, he loosened the buttons on his black vest.

What is he doing?

He proceeded to remove his tie and continue to unbutton his white shirt one by one, revealing the scars that reached all the way from his chest to abdomen.

It was an incredibly deep scar that twisted and turned like centipedes.

In any case, Kathleen was a child from a prestigious medical family.

Yet, the sight of Samuel's scars astounded her to the point of speechlessness.

“When you left that year...” He paused briefly before continuing, “I got into a fight. That person used a very sharp knife and cut my chest open all the way to my abdomen. Other than my heart, all of my internal organs were damaged. I barely managed to survive. That's why my body turned out this way.”

A fight?

“Mr. Macari!” Tyson was panicked.

He had assumed Samuel was finally willing to come clean to Kathleen.

Unexpectedly, there were still some things the man was keeping in the dark.

“Keep driving,” Samuel ordered chillingly.

That scared Tyson into silence. He continued driving the car seriously.

Kathleen furrowed her brows.

Samuel cast her a gentle gaze. “Now, you know why my body is—”

Before he could even finish, however, he was interrupted by Kathleen's finger lightly grazing his scar.

It seemed that her eyes had become red-rimmed.

He nearly died.

It would be a lie to say she wasn't upset.

Samuel smiled subtly as he coaxed, “Don't worry. I'm still alive.”

All of a sudden, she grabbed the collar of his shirt. “Hmph!”

He froze.

“Are you trying to trick me?” she accused furiously.

Samuel stiffened in a fluster. “Why would I do that?”

“Would you really get hurt this badly from a fight?” she fumed. “There are so many people around you at all times. Do you think I don't know that?”

He didn't try to talk back.

“Moreover,” she thundered, “I started learning about medicine from my granddad at a young age and learned how to identify wounds. I'm well-informed about the difference between a self-inflicted wound and a stab wound, even more than you are!”

The atmosphere in the car began to freeze over.

Kathleen placed one hand on his chest and looked right at him with a clear gaze. “Why did you hurt yourself?”

In turn, Samuel put his hand on her waist. A trace of disbelief surfaced on his exquisitely handsome face. “Because I missed you.”

His words made her go stiff.

Using his other hand, he wiped her tears away. “Nobody would tell me where you went. I searched for you everywhere, nearly going insane from the search. Kate, It was then that I realized one could miss someone so much that every part of their body was in pain. I knew I loved you, but only then did I understand that I loved you to my bones. I was in so much pain, and I had no choice. I knew I had hurt you, and you would never return for the rest of my life. That's why I stabbed myself with a knife and forcefully—”

“Stop!” She covered his mouth to stop him from elaborating any further. Tears were streaming down her face uncontrollably, and her hands were trembling.

In fact, her entire body was quivering.

Her eyes completely filled up with tears to the point that her vision was starting to blur.

She couldn't see Samuel's gorgeous face clearly anymore. Everything looked hazy to her.

Samuel got Tyson to stop the car.

The latter pulled over on the side of the road, then got out of the vehicle.

“Don't cry anymore, Kate,” Samuel said in a husky voice.

“They... They...” Sobs were choking her up. “They told me that all you did was stab yourself, but... They never told me that you nearly cut your own stomach open. Not a single soul let me know.”

If she had found out that Samuel nearly died back then, she definitely would have lived in regret for the rest of her life.

“Who told you that all I did was stab myself?” Samuel put his large hand on the back of her head and rested his forehead against hers.

“My brother and Chris,” she choked out between sniffles. “If I had known how badly you were injured, I would have come back to see you for sure.”

He then pulled her right into his arms and gave her a tight, forceful hug. If he could, he wanted to absorb her straight into his own body.

“Hearing you say that is enough for me,” he whispered gruffly.

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 175

Kathleen pushed Samuel away and sat aside with confusion written all over her pale face. “Why did you do that?”

“Because I missed you.” He slowly buttoned his shirt back up and sorted out his attire.

As she watched how the man returned to being the elegant, noble elite he was, she could not associate him with the possibility of self-harm.

Samuel did not look like he would do such a thing.

He is a self-centered man. Why would he harm himself because of sentiments? Furthermore, it’s such a severe case of self-harm.

Kathleen’s mind was in a mess.

Samuel looked at her with his dark, unfathomable eyes. “Kate, I’m the same as you. I miss the children too.”

She froze.

“Because of my mistakes, I’ve caused harm to my own child, and my beloved wife left me.” A bitter smile appeared on his refined face as he continued, “I can’t forgive myself for ruining what could’ve been a loving family with my own hands.”

Kathleen’s heart ached when she heard that.

“Don’t I deserve to die?” Samuel said in a husky voice, his dark eyes gazing deeply at her.

She did not know how to respond to that.

As he looked at the woman’s lost and uneasy expression, he was certain about her answer.

She had thought of wanting me to die.

Meanwhile, Kathleen could not explain her feelings either.

When she lost her child, she had indeed thought of wanting Samuel to die.

If not because of him, her child would’ve been safe and sound.

However, right then, when she saw the state Samuel was in, she did not want him to lose his life.

The internal wounds within her were not healed.

Instead, they were buried deep within her heart.

Despite that, she knew very well that she could no longer accept Samuel anymore.

Even when he was in his current state, she felt it was unacceptable.

The woman started sobbing.

It was too much for her to bear.

She thought she could be cold-hearted, but upon seeing the wound on his body, she was caught off-guard and abruptly broke down.

Samuel cautiously moved over to embrace her. “I’m sorry for making you go through so much.”

Kathleen sobbed, “Samuel, things can’t go back to how they were before. We can’t go back anymore. No matter what you say or do, there will always be a thorn in my heart. The closer you are to me, the more pain I would feel.”

He stiffened.

“It’s too excruciating,” Kathleen choked out. “It’s been a year, and I thought things would change. However, I realized nothing has changed at all.”

Samuel grew a little panicked. “Don’t cry. I’m not trying to make you feel sorry for me. I’m really not.”

He truly was not trying to make her feel bad.

It was just because she asked, and he did not want to lie to her.

He had lost her trust before and said never to lie to her again.

Unfortunately, he still lied to her once more, albeit it was eventually exposed by her.

He lightly patted Kathleen’s back, comforting her gently.

That sense of helplessness and fear swept over him again.

To be honest, he knew better than anyone that once they started to discuss the matter, he and Kathleen would not have a future anymore.

It was not that he wanted to give her up.

However, he could not bear to see her going through such a miserable time.

He embraced the woman and carried her on his lap. Then, he told Tyson to get back into the car.

The latter did not dare to ask any questions and only focused on driving.

Samuel did not say anything either. All he did was held onto the young lady in his arms tenderly and cautiously.

There was no other expression on his handsome face, but Kathleen, who was in his embrace, had a very conflicted look.

Soon, they arrived at their destination.

Samuel asked Tyson to get out of the car to make preparations.

Kathleen had stopped crying by then. She remained silent while still snuggling in Samuel’s arms.

He gently stroked her head. “Did you bring your makeup kit?”

She nodded.

He flashed a gentle smile. “Your makeup has smudged, you messy kitten.”

Kathleen lifted her head. “Samuel, I—”

He put a finger on her red lips. “Just indulge me this once, all right?”

Samuel’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he gulped. “I know what you want to say. Frankly, I didn’t want to tell you about this at all because you’re going to forgive me. Once you’ve forgiven me, you’ll no longer hate me, and you won’t have any feelings toward me anymore.”

She stared blankly at him. “You know me too well.”

“Touch up your makeup first. The opening ceremony is about to begin. After we settle the event, let’s find a place to talk about this, okay?” he asked hoarsely.

“Mm.”

The opening ceremony was a straightforward task.

After Kathleen finished touching up her makeup, she followed Samuel out of the car.

She looked radiant and stunning as she carried a professional smile, behaving demurely.

The way she held onto Samuel’s hands was very natural as well.

Once the opening ceremony ended, a group of reporters came over for an interview.

They fixed their eyes on Kathleen while asking, “Ms. Johnson, what’s your current relationship with Mr. Macari?”

Kathleen gave a confident and beautiful smile. “We’re friends and working partners.”

The reporters were astonished.

Her lips curled up gracefully. “Nobody said a couple can’t be friends after a divorce, right? Moreover, Mr. Macari and I have moved on from our past. We will continue to look ahead in the future.”

Samuel looked at her silently with an unfathomable gaze.

That’s good. She can let go of the troubles in her heart and accept a new life. That’s better than anything else.

The reporters wanted to ask Samuel more questions.

However, his countenance, albeit handsome, was as scary looking as a Grim Reaper, and the reporters were afraid to ask further.

The interview finished shortly after.

Samuel then led Kathleen to the hotel next to them to rest.

He took her to the presidential suite and said, “Get some rest. I’ll be back later.”

She hesitated. “Samuel…”

He turned to look at her.

As she walked toward him, her dark pupils reflected the handsome man’s face.

Samuel lowered his head. He cupped her face in his hands and said, “Rest well. If there’s anything, we’ll talk about it tonight.”

With that, he lowered his hands and left.

Kathleen knitted her brows slightly.

Why did he leave in such a hurry?

Still, Kathleen rested obediently.

After crying so much, she actually had a headache.

When she woke up from her nap, she was startled that somebody was sitting by the bedside and hurriedly sat up.

Samuel grinned. “Did I scare you?”

She nodded.

He said in his solemn voice, “I wanted to ask you to get something to eat downstairs, but I couldn’t bear to wake you up from your sleep.”

She pursed her lips.

“Come and sit here. Let’s chat.” The man pointed next to him.

Kathleen sat over to where he pointed with the blanket covering her legs, tilting her head to lean on his shoulder.

He felt a slight clench in his heart.

“I agree with what you said today about how we should look forward. Nonetheless, it’s easier said than done,” Samuel stated in his husky voice.

Kathleen remained silent.

“I’ve said in the car that I know you’ll forgive me when you find out I harmed myself. Our love and hatred will be wiped clean. From today onward, you won’t have any feelings toward me anymore.”

“I’m sorry.” She gripped the blanket.

“It’s not your fault. We all have to pay for our mistakes. Since I did something wrong, I deserve it,” he said self-deprecatingly.

Her eyes turned red.

“Katie, can you please call me Sam one last time?” he requested hoarsely.

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 176

Kathleen nodded. “Sam.”

Samuel held her hand. “I won’t pester you anymore in the future, nor will I constantly appear before you. I won’t immediately return home once you go to the Macari residence and do anything you dislike either.”

Her heart ached when she heard his remarks.

“But if you need my help, you can look for me at any time. I won’t just stand by and do nothing.” He continued to remind her, “The Yoeger family is complicated. It’s not surprising if your brother can’t understand it. Thus, you have to remember to look for me if you need anything. Don’t go to the others. They don’t know as much as I do.”

“Mm. I got it.” She gave a slight nod.

“Vanessa took Nicolette back not because she wanted to make up to the latter.” He furrowed his brows. “Zachary needs a kidney transplant, so Nicolette is merely the kidney source they’re looking for. But in order to make her donate her kidney willingly, the Yoegers have promised to fulfill some of her terms. You need to be wary. I will keep my eyes on them as well so that you won’t be in danger. However, at the same time, you need to be mindful.”

“All right.” She continued to nod.

“Felix is an extremely dangerous man. He might seem to be retiring from the family business, but his words are still absolute in Morris Group.” Samuel remained indifferent. “Had it not been for the Macaris’ presence all these years, Felix would have thrown my Aunt Emily out of the house long ago. It’s unlikely that her husband and Christopher can protect her. Therefore, Christopher may not be able to protect you as well. You have to be cautious.”

Sullenly, she stated, “It’s genuinely impossible between Chris and me.”

“That’s… great.” After a short pause, the man said, “All right. That’s all that I want to remind you. Do you have anything to say to me?”

“I’m immensely worried about your health. Hence, I will continue to provide you with consistent treatment in the future. You can’t refuse it.” She knitted her brows. “If not, I would’ve asked for the medicine from Caleb in vain, not to mention the annoying weird scandals that arose from that.”

Samuel was stunned. “Did you go there specifically to get medicine for me?”

“What else?” Her frown deepened. “Do you think I need it?”

He felt a warmth in his chest. “Thank you. I promise you.”

The woman let out a sigh. “At first, I had so many things to tell you. But when I stand in front of you, it seems like everything is redundant.”

“Then, I’ll wait until you wish to speak about it,” Samuel replied in a deep voice.

After musing on it, Kathleen asked, “Can I ask you a question?”

With a nod, he responded, “Mm. Go ahead.”

Pursing her lips, she queried, “Why do you like Nicolette so much?”

He froze momentarily. “Actually, I don’t like her that much. I had mistaken my gratitude for her in saving my life as love at first sight.”

“Tsk! I’ve saved you once as well. Why didn’t you feel grateful toward me, then?” she grumbled.

He frowned. “When did you save my life?”

“One time, I followed my father to the orphanage to give free medical consultations to the staff and children. At that time, Old Mrs. Macari took you there as a volunteer. You had a fight with a young kid there. When you had your guard down, he pushed you into the water. I was the one who saved you!”

“That was you?” His frown deepened. “I always thought it was Nicolette because she was the one who gave me mouth-to-mouth resuscitation when I woke up.”

Kathleen was at a loss for words.

“I’ve asked her about it. She said she was the one who saved me.” Samuel’s expression turned grim.

“What nonsense!” Kathleen fumed. “After I got you out of the water, I went to look for the adults to help you.”

He gazed at her wordlessly.

Could I have been deceived for all these years? So it was Kathleen, not Nicolette, who saved me. At that time, I noticed Nicolette’s clothes were wet too, not to mention she gave me mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Therefore, I assumed she was the one who saved me. As it turns out, I was wrong?

Kathleen felt the energy draining from her. “I always wondered why you didn’t have any reaction upon seeing me. In the end, you don’t even remember it.”

Grasping her hand, the man asked, “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“At that time, you treated me as if I was some kind of plague. I reckoned it would be useless to tell you,” she replied.

Samuel fell silent.

She’s right. Back then, I was indeed immensely aloof toward her.

“Drat!” he cursed furiously.

If it were not for Nicolette taking the credit, I would have had a blissful future with Kathleen. In the end, Nicolette ruined everything. I won’t let her off that easily. The last bit of sympathy I have toward her has disappeared!

Kathleen sighed. “At this point, we shouldn’t blame other people anymore. Perhaps, we are simply not destined for each other.”

Upon hearing her remarks, he did not utter a word.

He regretted and resented himself deeply.

Turning to look at the man, she called out, “Sam?”

Samuel turned and gazed at her intently.

With a faint smile, she said, “Everything is perfect. We have cleared things up and resolved all the problems. I feel that the burden has been lifted from my heart in an instant.”

Still, Samuel looked at her in misery.

“Moreover, this is great for us. If we still can’t be together after experiencing so many hardships, then it means we are truly not destined for each other. The Heavens indeed has its own plans,” she remarked mockingly.

Wrapping his arms around the woman, he said, “That’s enough.”

As a matter of fact, he had regretted it too much.

Meanwhile, Kathleen stayed in his arms quietly.

She was no longer as emotional as she was when they were in the car earlier.

Even though her eyes were still red-rimmed, she did not feel any burden in her heart anymore.

Both of them had used their own ways to repent their past.

Thus, they finally felt at ease.

Samuel took a deep breath. “Let’s have one last date together, shall we?”

Stunned, she asked, “A date?”

“Let’s have it right here. I want to have a date with you for the final time,” he explained.

After a short hesitation, she nodded. “Okay.”

Samuel told her to get ready for it while he went outside to wait for her.

Half an hour later, the duo appeared on the streets.

In order to prevent others from recognizing them, both of them wore face masks.

They spent the day wandering around.

“It looks like this small city is very vibrant,” Kathleen commented.

“Mm. If this place doesn’t become a major development area, it can become a vacation spot after it undergoes slight revamping,” Samuel remarked. “But the management has set the rules. Nothing can be done anymore.”

“Fortunately, the two mines are not disturbed. Or else, it won’t be this picturesque,” she explained.

“You’re right,” he said flatly.

“When will the people move?”

“After New Year’s Day. It’s the management who fixed the time. Everything has to be done quickly.”

She was taken aback. “Isn’t it weird that they are in a rush?”

He nodded. “Mm. I heard Felix went to see the management. In order to avoid any trouble, they urged me to start the works as soon as possible.”

Kathleen frowned. “If you start the work in a hurry, will there be any trouble?”

Pursing his lips, he answered, “Even if there is a problem, it won’t affect the development. Don’t worry about it.”

“Is Felix crazy? Why is he always going against you?” she asked in displeasure.

Samuel gave a half-smile. “Probably because I remind him of my grandpa.”

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 177

I really forgot about that.”

said Kathleen awkwardly.

“Don’t worry. I won’t let him go that easily.” Samuel said in a frigid and overbearing tone.

“I can only cheer for you, then.”

Glancing at her, he snorted.

She frowned. “What’s that gaze?”

“Felix almost became your grandpa!” he remarked bitterly.

Hearing that, Kathleen was rendered speechless.

Nonetheless, he held her hand and kept walking forward.

“How petty!” she muttered under her breath.

“Indeed, I am!”

Not wanting to argue anymore, she glimpsed at the clock on the building. “Sam, it’s almost midnight.

They had agreed not to have anything to do with each other after the clock struck twelve. Not even family

In the future, Samuel wouldn’t pester her anymore.

“This way!” He squeezed her hand slightly.

She followed him to a mountainside.

Looking down, they could see the entire city.

Samuel took off his mask. It was utterly chilly on the mountain in winter.

He then helped Kathleen to remove her mask too.

Next, he cupped her face with both hands.

Her petite face was flawless, so fair and delicate.

Not only that, but her large eyes were like black pearls, sparkling in the dark.

Samuel couldn’t help but touch her face with his cold fingers, his dark eyes abruptly turning scarlet.

“It’s almost time to bid farewell.” She raised her hand and gently covered the back of his.

He couldn’t utter a word.

“Sam?” Kathleen pursed her lips.

His breath became heavier as he lowered his head and captured her lips, venting all his emotions on that kiss.

Reluctance, regret, indignance.

He had never felt so emotional before and almost wanted to go back on his words

He genuinely didn’t want to let her go, but what could he do?

Kathleen had already bid goodbye to him, and he knew they could never go back.

She said they had to look forward.

Hence, he had no choice but to respect her wishes even though she would not be in his future anymore.

He felt that his life had stopped, and he had lost all motivation.

The reason why he agreed was that he wanted to make her life easier.

That was it.

Fireworks appeared in the small city at the foot of the mountain.

Meanwhile, Samuel kissed Kathleen so passionately as though he was about to devour her.

In his tight embrace, the woman could hardly move

By the time they broke apart when the fireworks ended, her legs had turned weak.

Samuel breathed heavily as he held the back of her head with his large hand. “I love you, Kate.”

I’ll only love you in my life. No matter where you go, I’m going to miss you.

The next day. Samuel and Kathleen left the hotel together.

Charles came to pick up Kathleen at the lobby.

“Did you sleep well last night? Samuel asked politely as he looked at the woman, seemingly trying to restrain himself.

She blushed. “Mm”

“Last night…” He paused. “If you feel unwell, then go to the hospital.”

Her face turned even redder at that.

How could I go to the hospital! Last night was really… I was overcome with lust!

In fact, Samuel was too good at bewitching her.

“Get in the car,” Charles piped up with a dark expression

“Mm” Kathleen had no choice but to nod, glancing at Samuel. “Goodbye.”

“Goodbye.” The man retracted his gaze

Seeing him in that state, she could guess that Samuel had completely let go of her after last night Good That’s how it should be

She quickly got into the vehicle

After closing the door, Charles urged the driver to leave at once

Samuel only raised his head after the car drove away. He said coldly. “Let’s go back too.”

“Mr. Macari, are you genuinely going to give up on Ms. Johnson? Tyson asked.

“Give up?” Samuel sneered. “Impossible!”

Tyson was taken aback. I knew it!

Samuel narrowed his eyes.

Had he not said that, how could he have had her?

Now that he had gotten Kathleen’s body, he would proceed to win her heart next

Nevertheless, he was no longer in a hurry

Kathleen is so youthful and adorable, she can only belong to me.

Tyson thought Samuel was sly and reckoned the man would definitely be taught a harsh lesson by Kathleen in the future.

Absolutely! No doubt about that

In the car, Charles glanced at his sister and queried, “What’s going on?”

“Nothing Kathleen shook her head indifferently.

For some reason, she kept recalling what happened in the hotel room last night

There had been a blackout in the hotel, and knowing that she was afraid of the darkness, Samuel stayed with her the whole night.

However, what happened next was…

Ahhh!

She was still in slight disbelief

For some unknown reason, the atmosphere last night became intimate out of the blue.

It was true that Samuel did it only once as he promised

Sull, she could feel his touch all over her body.

Every inch of her skin had been covered by his breath, and it seemed that he wanted to leave some kind of mark on her so that people coveting her wouldn’t dare to approach her again

It was too insone last night

Samuel nearly went crazy

Kathleen looked out of the car window and said, “Pull over at the pharmacy in front”

Charles was at a loss for words

Samuel Macari, that ticking bastardi

gel

Roge surged

his chest

He quickly got out of the car and returned soon after, handing her the medicine with a grim expression

“Eat it.”

“Is this a painkiller?* Kathleen asked, perplexed.

“Don’t be silly. You have to take… birth control pills after doing that

She furrowed her brows. “After doing what? Charles, you…”

Charles paused briefly. “Did I get it wrong?”

Kathleen was speechless.

“Then, why did you two speak so ambiguously just now? One will easily be misunderstood!” he fumed,

She was too embarrassed to say anything more.

Samuel didn’t go all the way.

He merely kissed her and nearly drove her out of her mind.

He had not missed any part of her body with his lips, claiming to want her to feel unforgettable bliss.

In the end, he truly did it, and it was indeed still replaying vividly in her mind

“Well, I was wrong about him this time, then.” Charles breathed a sigh of relief. “I’ll buy you some painkillers.”

He got out of the car again

Meanwhile, Kathleen hid her face in her down jacket, blushing furiously.

Kathleen had returned to continue her filming

In the evening, Dlana called her.

“Katie, I’ve arranged everything. Don’t forget to come tomorrow night,” the woman said with a smile.

“Thank you for everything, Old Mrs. Macari.” Kathleen was grateful

“Don’t be silly! I don’t want you to thank me”

“I’ll be there tomorrow afternoon. See you then”

“Great!” Diana nodded and hung up.

However, as soon as she stood up and was about to return to her bedroom, she spotted Samuel

“Why are you back?” she questioned coldly

“I came back to see you all, of course. I’m afraid I’ll die one day and never see you guys again, the man answered apathetically

Upon hearing that Diana was speechless

“Iven if I die. You guys won’t care anyway.” Samuel added frostdly “You all care inote about Christopher than I wonder if I should exchange itry position with him

“You!” Diana glared at him and snickered. “I see you’ve revived!”

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 178

If this had happened in the past,

Samuel would not have grumbled about it.

However, he finally knew how to voice his feelings after suppressing them for a year.

It was also why Diana asked him that question.

Samuel smiled. “I’ve always been alive.”

Hearing his response, Diana said in an ironic tone, “Bah! Look at you now! You look as fine as how you were a year ago. You appeared always to be on the brink of death before this.”

“A year ago?” He replied smilingly, “It’s good that I’m like how I was a year ago. Katie was still my wife at that time.”

“Ah! Don’t bring misfortune to her!” Diana’s expression darkened.

He asked coolly, “What if I insist on pursuing her? I’ll never let her go, I’ve decided to win over her heart. I won’t let the others have the chance to go near her.”

Hearing his words, she asked worriedly. “What are you trying to do? Don’t bully katie anymore!”

“I would like her to become my wife,” he answered casually

Shocked, Diana stared blankly at him.

With that, Samuel walked upstairs.

When she snapped back to her senses, she rubbed her temples before calling out, “Maria?”

Maria walked over to her and asked, “What’s the matter, Old Mrs. Macari?”

“Ah! My head hurts!” Diana sighed.

Anxious, Maria responded, “Huh? Shall I get a doctor now?”

“No! Ask Katie to come here. I want to see her,” instructed Diana.

“All right.” Maria nodded in response.

The next moment, she wanted to phone Kathleen Immediately

Before she could do that, Diana blurted out, “Walt a minutel I almost burst a blood vessel listening to Samuel’s words. Hmm, It’s fine Katie is at the filming set. Let’s not disturb her.”

“Sure.” Maria nodded

The Macari residence was bustling with crowd and activities the next day, as Dlana had Invited many

guests

The most prominent guest she invited was Frances, but the latter had not arrived yet.

Kathleen arrived earlier upon receiving the invitation

Charles came along too

Hofring Kathleen’s hard in hers, Diona introduced Kathleen to the people around her

hris my granddaughter, Kathleen Johnson’ said blana with a smile

Upon hearing that, an awkward expression appeared on the guests’ faces.

“Well, I know what you all are thinking. Anyway, Kathleen will be my granddaughter from now on! You should take care of her when she’s in trouble,” Diana instructed.

The crowd nodded sheepishly. “Sure!”

Kathleen smiled awkwardly.

Just then, Samuel walked over, looking handsome and emanating an elegant yet cold aura.

The guests fell silent once they saw him.

Meanwhile, Kathleen blushed shyly upon seeing him.

“What are you talking about?” Samuel was polite, but there was a tinge of aloofness in his eyes.

No one dared to respond to his question.

After all, everyone did not dare to offend him.

“We’re talking about you having a sister,” said Diana meaningfully.

What? Sister?

Samuel glanced at Kathleen. “Come one, call me Sam.”

Kathleen was rendered speechless.

His words left everyone at the scene dumbfounded as well.

He raised his brows and added, “Why don’t you call me that? Are you not going to acknowledge me? I’m your brother.”

“Go on, Katie. Address him as he wish!” persuaded Diana.

Awkwardly, Kathleen called out, “Sam.”

Samuel flashed her a half-smile and teased, “Won’t Charles be vexed because you’ve got another brother now? After all, you’ve changed the way you address me.”

Kathleen furrowed her brows upon hearing his words.

“Oh! It seems like you don’t want to

Upon seeing her reaction, he smiled meaning acknowledge me as your brother, do you?”

“Sam,” Kathleen called out his name again nonchalantly.

Satisfied, he replied, “Good girl!”

Then, he stroked her halr affectionately. No one knew what was on his mind.

Seeing that, Kathleen pursed her lips.

After a while, he retracted his hand and stood aside aloofly

Just then, sorricone came in and sold something 10 Diana, “Old Mrs Mocani, Ms. Yoeger is here”

“Oh? Old Mrs. Yoeger is not coming? Diana frowned.

That person shook his head.

Diana turned over to look at Kathleen

The latter lowered her voice and responded, “It’s okay, Grandma. Let’s see what she wants.”

Hearing her words, Diana nodded faintly.

As soon as Kathleen responded, Vanessa entered the residence.

She was not the only who came, as Nicolette was with her as well.

Diana’s face fell immediately when she saw them. “Hmph!”

Samuel remained forbidding.

“Hi, Old Mrs. Macari!” Vanessa smiled,

“Why are you here?” Diana questioned coldly

Vanessa smiled meaningfully and replied, “My mother isn’t feeling well, so she asks me to come.”

Kathleen remained silent and turned around to look at Samuel.

Samuel strode toward Kathleen and stood beside her before saying icily. “Katie has some medical skills Why don’t you let her treat Old Mrs. Yoeger?”

Startled, Vanessa stared at her contemptuously. “Oh! Does she really know medicine?”

“My granddad is a renowned traditional medicine practitioner.” Unfazed, Kathleen glanced at Vanessa frostily

“Really? Vanessa asked back in a cold manner

Kathleen knew Vanessa did not believe her.

“Hey, Kathleen! Nicolette narrowed her eyes as she looked at Kathleen

The was as cool as a cucumber as she replied, “Did someone talk to me?”

Sitting on a wheelchair, Nicolette looked up at Kathleen indifferently

She was still wearing a mask to cover the scar on her face

“Heal my face if you are that capable Nicolette raised her brows.

Kathleen scoffed Treat your face? Do I need to do that?

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here out of respect for you, Old Mrs. Macari. Is this how you treat your guests?”

Wynnie came over and chimed in, “The Macari family always welcomes our guests, of course! However, we can’t enjoy the privilege of the Yoeger family coming here because you’re always on your high horse. Anyway, we must treat every one of our guests with respect.”

Vanessa bit her lip and shot daggers at Wynnie before saying, “Ha! How good you are with your words, Mrs. Macari!”

“Haha! I only know how to speak to a civilized human. Some people can’t even speak human language,” Wynnie retorted with a smile.

Vanessa’s face fell.

Suddenly, everyone tensed up as they felt the tension in the air in the Macari residence grow thicker.

Kathleen asked casually. “Nicolette, do you still remember slapped you previously?”

Nicolette pursed her lips upon hearing her words. “Ha! How dare you mention it now! You beat me to

Remaining indifferent, Kathleen uttered, “Oh! Isn’t that the reason why you’re here tonight? That’s fine with me. Why don’t.we settle accounts with each other since you’re here?”

Nicolette responded, “Settle accounts? How do you want to do it?”

Kathleen soon put a frosty façade on her beautiful face and said, “Let’s talk about why I slapped you. I guess everyone here is curious about that, too.”

Nicolette narrowed her eyes.

Kathleen continued, “You’re the shameless one. Everyone knows the reason for the separation between Samuel and me. It’s your fault.”

Samuel remained calm upon hearing her words.

“But they’ll never know why I hate you to the bone,” added Kathleen. “There has always been bad blood between us because you owe me two lives.”

Her words caused an uproar among the crowd who heard it

“What? Lives?”

“I wonder why Samuel and Kathleen divorced that year. Hadn’t they had everything prepared for their wedding?”

“Ah! You know nothing! Kathleen is talking about her unborn children!”

“What? Was Kathleen pregnant before?”

Thold its Nicolette’s fault initially, Kathleen had twins, but they died out of the blue*

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 179

The crowd started chattering among themselves.

Nicolette turned to look at Kathleen with a stony expression. “I don’t understand what you’re talking about.”

“You returned to the country to treat leukemia that year.” Kathleen’s gentle voice grew colder as she said, “Samuel helped you look for a suitable donor from all the blood banks and found out that I am a sultable candidate. I was pregnant at that time, so there was no way for me to donate bone marrow to you. However, you were too selfish and sent someone to knock me out before bringing me to the hospital and allowing the doctors to draw my bone marrow. My children are gone because of this.”

Nicolette’s expression darkened. “What nonsense are you spouting, Kathleen?” She appeared composed on the outside, but in fact, she was so scared that her palms became sweaty.

“Ha!” Kathleen scoffed, “I know you won’t admit it.”

“Why do I have to admit it if I’ve never done it before?” questioned Nicolette in an aggrieved tone. “Don’t accuse me of something like this.”

She knew Samuel had gotten rid of the two key witnesses.

After all, the dead could never reveal the truth.

No one would know the entire incident as long as she never admitted it.

Gemma walked over and said, “Oh? Accuse you, huh? I’m the witness! You even broke my waist when you got to know I wanted to stop you from doing this!”

Nicolette replied calmly. “Ms. Young, everyone knows you’re Kathleen’s good friend. Of course, you will help her concoct a devious plan against me.”

Irritated, Gemma retorted, “What? Not everyone is as shameless as you!”

Nicolette sneered, “Gemma, do you think you can enjoy all the glory and wealth by choosing to side with her?”

“Y-You!” Gemma almost burst a blood vessel upon hearing Nicolette’s words.

Kathleen tugged at Gemma’s arm and consoled, “Don’t stoop to her level.”

“Haha!” Nicolette mocked, “Gemma, the Macari family has done you a lot of favor these years. Look how you speak up for Kathleen! Are you interested in Samuel?”

Gemma was infuriated. “Hey! Not everyone is as shameless as you!”

Nicolette asked in a steely tone, “Shameless? Me? Are you sure you are better than me?”

Hearing that, Kathleen said frostily, “Nicolette, we’re talking about the thing between us. Why do you have to change the topic and verbally attack Gemma? Are you feeling guilty about something?”

Nicolette scoffed.

Kathleen looked at her, exuding a uniquely aloof aura. “So what if I don’t have any witnesses? Although you think your plan that year was flawless, there are still surveillance cameras in every hospital. Don’t you know about that, Nicolette?”

Nicolette’s expression grew frostier. “Unfortunately, the surveillance cameras all malfunctioned that night.”

Kathleen responded nonchalantly. “But, some surveillance cameras are functioning normally In other places in the hospital. There was also surveillance footage of me being knocked out and brought into the hospital.”

Nicolette was stunned.

Samuel walked toward Kathleen and gently placed his hand on her shoulder. His dark eyes were as deep as chasm as he suggested, “You want witnesses? I have them.”

Kathleen was shocked.

The next instant, he pulled her into his arms.

Nicolette bit her lip in disbelief upon hearing Samuel’s words.

That’s impossible! How can Samuel have witnesses? I remember he had gotten rid of Sarah and the doctor, hadn’t he? Has he looked for the others to fake evidence for Kathleen?

“Knowing that you may need them. I’ve asked my men to bring them here beforehand.” Retracting his hand from Kathleen’s shoulder, he smiled lazily, exuding a cold aura.

“That’s impossible!” Nicolette could not believe her ears.

He looked at Tyson and instructed, “Bring them here.”

“Yes!” Tyson strode out as he heard Samuel’s order.

Nicolette chewed on her lip in anxiousness.

No! It can’t be! Samuel will not force me to a wall!

Soon, Tyson brought a man and a woman along with him.

Kathleen stared at them and could barely recognize them.

Kathleen could hardly believe her eyes the moment she saw Sarah, not to mention the doctor.

Sarah had become plumper, and her rosy cheeks made her look healthy. She did not seem like she had been mistreated.

In fact, the same went to the doctor who had become rotund.

“Tell them who you are,” Samuel ordered coldly.

Sarah came clean about everything after hearing Samuel’s words. “My name is Sarah, and I was Mr. Macari’s bodyguard. He asked me to protect Mrs. Macari, but I was bribed by Nicolette. Therefore, drugged Mrs. Macari and took her to the hospital. He was the doctor who operated on Mrs. Macari.”

“Yes. At that time, Nicolette approached me to discuss this matter. I was blinded by money and agreed to help her out. However, I did the operation anyway even though Mrs. Macari claimed that she was pregnant at that moment. I was too greedy! After that, she suffered a hemorrhage, causing a shock. I didn’t perform any treatment on her, so I directly asked someone to send her to the morgue. Fortunately, Mr. Macari and Mdm. Wynnie arrived and saved Mrs. Macari,” the doctor said.

“Gemma was trying to stop us. However, I went against her and almost broke her waist to prevent her from ruining our plan. She wasn’t lying,” added Sarah.

“Hey! You two!” Nicolette was enraged.

Sarah raised her hand to make a vow gesture. “I swear on my life. Everything I said Is true. I’ll suffer from divine retribution and rot in hell if I were to lie to you!”

The doctor said, “Yes, she’s right! I swear to the heavens! If I lie, may the heavens strike me down with lightning!”

The crowd immediately believed Sarah and the doctor after hearing their horrific vow.

“Gosh! Nicolette is too evil!”

“Serve her right! Kathleen is not wrong for ruining Nicolette’s face!”

“Nicolette deserves the punishment! She is so disgusting for sabotaging Kathleen and Samuel’s marriage. Anyway, she was the one who gave up on Samuel first.”

“Hmm, I think Kathleen is too generous. If it were me, I would send Nicolette to prison!”

“Samuel was protecting Nicolette at that time. Otherwise, she would be long be jailed.”

Hearing the crowd’s speculation, Samuel explained, “I was kind to Nicolette because I thought she was the one who saved me.”

Everyone froze like a statue, and Nicolette gaped at Samuel in silence.

What does he mean by that? Could it be that he knew everything? That’s impossible! He never knew the truth even after so many years. Thus, I believe he’s never mentioned anything about it to Kathleen. He would never question the truth, would he?

Staring coldly at Nicolette, Samuel said, “The one who saved me when I almost drowned in the orphanage wasn’t you, Nicolette.”

Nicolette was shocked by his words.

Everyone was equally surprised.

“It was Kathleen who saved me,” Samuel continued.

Unwilling to give up, Nicolette bit her lip and said, “She lied to you!”

“She doesn’t have to trick me. I just confirmed it a few days ago,” Samuel said solemnly.

His words stupefied Nicolette.

“I was kind to you because I thought you were the one who saved me. After knowing that you weren’t the one, I owe you nothing, then. In fact, you are the one who owes me.” Samuel’s eyes turned dark and frosty.

Nicolette froze on the spot. “Samuel, Kathleen is lying to you!”

The next instant, Samuel turned to Diana and said, “Grandma, was Kate drenched when she went looking for you at that time?”

Diana answered, “Yes.”

“Well, Nicolette. Tell me then. Why was Kathleen soaked if she wasn’t the one who had saved me?” asked Samuel in a cold voice.

Divorce Anxiety (Kathleen and Samuel) Chapter 180

Nicolette was dumbstruck.

“Why did she have to make herself soaked?” Samuel stared at Nicolette, putting her in a tight spot.

Nicolette could barely handle the situation, as she did not know how to react to it when Samuel went against her.

After all, it was too easy for Samuel to deal with her if he wished to do that.

with a disdainful look, he asked, “Don’t you have anything to say now? Weren’t you spouting a mouthful of nonsense just now?”

“Hahal” Nicolette looked at him in despair and said, “We were in love, Samuel. How can you-”

“No, I never did. I was only reciprocating your kindness,” responded Samuel haughtily.

Nicolette’s face turned ashen. She was so shocked that her body was trembling in disbelief.

Reciprocating my kindness? He is so cruel!

Staring into his dark eyes, she yelled, “How can you do this to me? All you want is to pursue Kathleen!”

Samuel responded calmly, “No, I’m not. I’ve decided to give up on that. She will be my sister from now on. I’m only protecting her. Is it wrong?”

His words stumped her once again.

Kathleen flushed upon hearing his words.

She was supposed to feel peaceful to hear his words.

However, for some reason, she was conflicted. Instead, a gloomy feeling descended upon her.

Seeing how the tables had turned, Vanessa chimed in coldly, “Old Mrs. Macari, your family has gone overboard! You’re all bullying her!”

“Why didn’t you utter a word when Nicolette was bullying Kathleen?” Displeased, Diana continued,

“Why? Are you anxious because we’ve finally revealed her true colors? Are you scared that it might – bring shame to your family?”

Vanessa was rooted to the spot upon hearing Diana’s words.

“I need to ask you something, Nicolette.” Kathleen took a step forward. “Why did you choose the hospital where my parents used to work instead of other hospitals that treat leukemia? Also, why did you choose the hospital that has my bone marrow tissue type on record?”

Nicolette remained silent.

“Did you already know about something beforehand?” Kathleen added, glaring at Nicolette.

Nicolette did not dare to look at Kathleen’s eyes. “I don’t know what you’re trying to say.”

Kathleen turned to Vanessa and said, “We’ve got witnesses now. Can we now leave Nicolette’s case of intentional assault to the court?”

Vanessa bit her lip and fell silent.

Kathleen shot Nicolette a cold glance. “Well, since you’ve nothing to say, I’ll see you in court then.”

Nicolette’s face turned pale as she looked at Kathleen.

“Don’t blame me for doing this. I’m only avenging my two children.” Kathleen continued coldly.

“Let’s leave now!” Vanessa wanted to take Nicolette to leave with her.

Kathleen sald calmly. Vanessa, Grandma and I will go to the Yoeger residence and visit Old Mrs. Yoeger. I think what happened between Nicolette and I should not trouble the elders in our families. Therefore, I need to explain it properly to her.”

Vanessa turned to look at Kathleen coldly before letting out a scoff and turning around to leave.

Seeing this, Kathleen did not say a word.

After the Yoeger family left, Samuel asked someone to bring Sarah and the doctor out.

Afterward, the charity auction continued.

“I have something else to attend to. I’ll leave first,” said Samuel to Diana before turning around and leaving the mansion.

Kathleen followed him.

“Samuel,” she called out his name.

He turned around. “Call me Sam.”

She was at a loss for words.

“What’s the matter?’ He smiled faintly.

Confused, Kathleen asked.”What’s happened to Sarah and the others?”

She saw someone drag Sarah and the doctor into a vehicle.

“What ways of torturing people can you think of?” A tinge of evilness flashed past Samuel’s eyes as he looked at her.

She pursed her red lips. “Like the way you treated Nicolette?”

“That’s one.” He grinned. “Have you ever heard of a story in which there was a group of evil people who were sent to heaven? They were happy in heaven with sufficient food and drinks, and they did not have to suffer all day in fire like those in hell. All they had to do was to eat and drink. However, they would gradually realize they could not stand it anymore because their only task was to eat. As time went by. they felt that it was actually a kind of torture.”

Kathleen fell silent for a moment. “I know this story. In reality, there’s no heaven but only hell.”

Samuel nodded. “Yeah, you’re right. So, I’m putting Sarah and the others in the living hell. They can only be fed on a bed like pigs in a sty. They can’t go down from their beds nor do other activities. Do you think they will be happy living in such a state?”

It was a mental suffering for them.

Realization soon struck Kathleen as she looked at Samuel intently.

Ah! How can he even come up with something like that?

Kathleen bit her lip. “Judging from Nicolette’s expression, I think she must have thought that you have already gotten rid of Sarah and the doctor. I also thought-”

I’ll never let them off the hook,” Samuel Interrupted unsympathetically.

“All right. Anyway, thank you,” said Kathleen in a low voice.

He looked at her meaningfully before saying, “Aren’t you afraid of me?”

She shook her head. “No.”

Samuel glanced at Kathleen, who had been behaving polite and obedient. “Good. Go in then. It’s cold outside.”

Kathleen nodded in response.

“I told you just now that I wouldn’t pester you anymore. I’ve given up on pursuing you. Shouldn’t you be happy to hear this?” He flashed a half-smile.

Kathleen pressed her lips into a thin line. “All right.”

With that, he turned around to leave before getting into the car.

Tyson was the driver.

Meanwhile, Samuel looked at Kathleen through the car window.

I’ll definitely win her heart. In reality, I have never thought of stopping pursuing her. It’s simply a way to buy time because I want to include myself in her life. I want her to fall for me again.

Sighing, Kathleen turned around and went to look for Diana.

“Old Mrs. Macari, I’m sorry for deciding to pay a visit to Old Mrs. Yoeger tomorrow without your permission.” Kathleen felt embarrassed, knowing that she was too foolhardy to say that.

Diana replied solemnly, “You’re right. I’m also worried about her. I’ll go with you.”

“Grandma.” Kathleen hesitated for a moment before continuing, “Who do you think Old Mrs. Yoeger will choose to be the next head of the Yoeger family?”

“Definitely not Vanessa,” Diana assured.

Shocked, Kathleen asked, “Why?”

“It’s because Vanessa isn’t Old Mrs. Yoeger’s biological daughter. She is an illegitimate daughter of Old Mr. Yoeger. A woman carrying Vanessa went looking for him at the Yoeger residence when Old Mrs. Yoeger just got married to him.” Diana sighed. “In order not to create a hassle, Old Mrs. Yoeger could only claim that Vanessa is her own daughter.”

Kathleen was shocked to the core.

Ah! I have never thought things would turn out to be like this! Vanessa is an illegitimate child!

“No worries. I’ll go with you tomorrow,” Diana said calmly. “I’d like to know what she’s up to!”

“Okay.” Kathleen nodded.

“By the way. If Samuel bullies you again, don’t spare him anymore!”

“I think you’ve misunderstood him, Grandma. We’ve talked it out, and he’s decided not to pester me anymore!”

Diana fell silent.

Hmph! I will never believe his words! He must be lying to Kathleen! I’m sure he is a wolf in sheep’s clothing!

After all, Samuel was Diana’s grandson. She could not bear to reveal his true nature in front of Kathleen.

All she could do was to remind Kathleen not to trust Samuel.