Ch. 251..260
Chapter 251
Teaching You A Lesson
Staring at Samuel’s unfathomable gaze, Tracy nodded in silence.
“So, Finn doesn’t know you were the one behind it?” Samuel asked indifferently.
“He doesn’t know, of course.” Tracy bit her lower lip. “Mr. Macari, please don’t tell him!”
Samuel remained silent.
“Mr. Macari, I’m begging you!” Tracy pleaded. She was all worked up.
Maintaining his deadpan expression, Samuel uttered, “What is done by night appears by day.”
“As long as no one tells him, he will never find out!” Tracy responded.
“Tracy Smith!” Kathleen could no longer hold herself back. She came down from the second floor.
Tracy heard someone calling her name and turned around.
Kathleen slowly approached. She was full of rage.
Tracy knew Kathleen, but she had only seen the latter on TV.
Kathleen asked, “Do you think you did nothing wrong back then?”
Tracy was dumbfounded.
Kathleen’s gaze darkened as she added, “Have you ever thought about how much harm you would bring to her by doing that?”
Kathleen could not hold back her anger anymore. She walked toward Tracy and threw a hard slap across the latter’s face.
Rubbing her cheek, Tracy stared at Kathleen, who was boiling with anger in disbelief.
“It has nothing to do with me! It was Finn who dumped her.” Tracy was infuriated. “Finn married me willingly, and I didn’t force him. He chose me instead of that woman. She should catch the hint and leave but not keep pestering us and bothering us!”
“Have you ever thought that she wouldn’t have ended up in this state if Finn hadn’t dumped her without any explanation?” Kathleen clenched her slender fingers. “Moreover, you used such a filthy method to deal with a woman. Do you have any conscience?”
“I will never let anyone get in between Finn and me.” A sense of hatred flitted across Tracy’s eyes.
Kathleen let out a scornful chuckle. “Finn was the one to be blamed. Instead of punishing Finn, why did you go after a woman?”
“Ms. Johnson, this is a matter between us, and it has nothing to do with you. Don’t you think you’re too busybody?” said Tracy, looking displeased.
As soon as she finished speaking, a cold male voice sounded. “It has nothing to do with her, but it has something to do with me.”
Tracy paused for a moment before she looked in the direction where the voice came from.
She saw Caleb walking toward her, looking frigid and distant.
Tracy froze. “Caleb?”
“It seems like you know me.” Caleb’s gaze was intimidating. “I guess you know who my sister is, then.”
Her sister?
After pondering for a while, Tracy replied, “Of course. Your sister is that woman. What are you trying to do?”
“I’m going to kill you!” Caleb darted toward Tracy and grabbed her neck.
Tracy did not manage to dodge his attack and was caught by him.
“Ouch! Let go of me!” Tracy tried to push Caleb’s hand away.
However, Caleb grabbed Tracy so tight that she could not free herself from his grasp at all.
Caleb grabbed her neck with all his might as he questioned, “I thought you were fearless just now. What’s wrong with you now?”
He exerted more force as he spoke.
Tracy’s breath was becoming more and more rapid. She could even feel herself suffocating.
“Let me go!” Tracy dug her nails into Caleb’s hand.
Kathleen looked at Caleb worriedly. “Caleb, it will not change anything even if you kill her. You can’t save your sister. Calm down! It isn’t worth staining your own hands because of someone like Tracy! There are many other ways to seek revenge!”
None of her words reached Caleb’s ears.
At that point, all he had in mind was to avenge Vivian.
Vivian was his only family. She was his sister.
Since he was still a child, Vivian had been protecting him.
Hence, he had secretly vowed to protect her after he grew up.
His enemy was right before him. How could he not seek revenge?
“Caleb Lewis!” Kathleen reached out to grab Caleb’s other arm.
She was afraid that Caleb might lose his mind and kill Tracy. The latter deserved to die but not at Caleb’s hands.
Tracy had already ruined one of them from the Lewis family. Kathleen could not allow Tracy to destroy Caleb too.
Not to mention, Vivian had gone through so much torment because of Tracy. It would be too easy for Tracy if she were to die this way.
“Go away!” Caleb pushed Kathleen away.
Kathleen was caught completely off-guard by his sudden response.
She lost her balance and fell into a warm embrace.
“Are you okay?” Samuel’s voice was deep.
Kathleen shook her head. Staring at Tracy, who was almost dying, she called out to Samuel, “Quick! Get someone to stop Caleb! Don’t have someone get killed here for real.”
Samuel’s gaze was oppressing as he stared at her without saying a word.
Kathleen chided, “Stop getting jealous at a time like this. There’s nothing between him and me!”
Samuel grinned. “Okay. I buy this explanation.”
Kathleen was at a loss for words in an instant.
Ahh! What a j*rk! How frustrating!
Samuel waved his hand, and about five bodyguards went toward Caleb and surrounded him.
Two of them grabbed him by the arms, and another two grabbed his legs.
“Let go of me!” Caleb was fuming.
However, the four bodyguards only listened to Samuel’s instructions.
The only bodyguard left moved a chair over and placed it at the side.
The other four bodyguards carried Caleb and placed him on the chair before tying him up with ropes.
At the same time, Kathleen stared at Samuel silently, as though having something weighing on her mind.
Has he gotten everything prepared beforehand?
Tracy slumped to the ground and rubbed her neck, her eyes red. “Caleb, you’d better not go too far! It was your sister who kept bothering my man! I only taught her a lesson. She deserved it!”
Slap!
Kathleen walked over and slapped Tracy hard on the face.
Tracy was taken aback by her act. Covering her face, she questioned furiously, “Kathleen Johnson, what are you doing? Don’t you think you can lay your hands on me again and again just because Samuel is backing you up? I’m not someone you can easily mess with!”
“I’m teaching you a lesson.” Kathleen shot Tracy a cold glare. “Finn didn’t break up with Vivian when he got married to you. Vivian had been waiting for him. Based on what you stated, who is the mistress, then?”
“Haha! Vivian is the mistress! She is the mistress!” Tracy scoffed.
“Let go of me!” Looking at the arrogant woman before him, Caleb bellowed, “Let me kill her!”
Kathleen’s brows settled into a deep frown.
Tracy shows no remorse at all! A j*rk like Finn and a sl*t like her are a perfect match. Both of them are the culprits!
Samuel asked apathetically, “Tracy, would you dare to say the same in front of Finn too?”
Tracy was dumbfounded.
Her eyes were filled with horror.
She could never let Finn find out about what she had done.
“It seems like you’re well aware of the situation.” Samuel continued sarcastically, “Finn always has Vivian in his heart. He only married you because of his family. Since you know about this, why can’t you accept that Finn married you not because he loves you?”
Tracy’s face stiffened.
Samuel flashed Kathleen a faint smile. “Go tell her.”
Kathleen responded with a nod.
Staring at Tracy, she said calmly, “Tracy, you got someone to spread that kind of photo around, and Vivian has gone mad because of that. If you still wish to make up for the bad deeds you’ve done, hand us the negatives.”
Tracy seemed reluctant.
“Tracy, you’ve been married to Finn for many years, but you couldn’t get pregnant all these years. Have you ever thought it could be karma?” Kathleen said emotionlessly.
Tracy froze at Kathleen’s remark and stared blankly at the latter.
“Tracy, I’m a traditional medicine practitioner. Judging by your complexion, I can tell you often have nightmares. You always feel anxious and depressed. That’s why it’s hard for you to conceive, right?” Kathleen analyzed composedly.
Tracy widened her eyes in shock. “How did you know?”
“Traditional medicine is all about inspection, auscultation, consultation, and cross-examination. Your issue is already very severe. It will be hard for you to conceive if you don’t receive treatment,” said Kathleen.
She suppressed the anger surging within her. If the allegation could be grounded with evidence, I really wish she could receive the punishment she deserves. Even so, it’s too easy for her. I’m going to make Tracy regret what she had done to Vivian because of Finn.
Tracy looked at her blankly. “You can help me, right?”
Kathleen nodded. “I do have a condition.”
“What is it?” Tracy was willing to promise Kathleen anything as long as she could get pregnant.
Chapter 252
Apologize
“Apologize to Vivian and untie the knot in her heart,” Kathleen icily stated.
Baffled, Tracy bit her lip and exclaimed, “Never!”
That garnered a scoff from Kathleen, who then sardonically snapped, “Weren’t you afraid that Finn would leave you? After all, many years have passed, and you still haven’t gotten pregnant. Aren’t you worried that the Morris family won’t want you around anymore?”
Tracy pursed her lips.
Kathleen’s indifferent voice rang again as she continued, “I heard Finn’s mother kept asking you to get pregnant. That way, Finn would have all the more reason to return to the Morris family and inherit the family business.”
“As long as I apologize, you promise you’ll help me get pregnant?” asked Tracy, whose intent gaze was fixated on Kathleen.
A nod came from the latter.
“Fine! I’ll apologize,” Tracy said through gritted teeth.
At that moment, Kathleen and Samuel exchanged looks, relieved that they had finally convinced Tracy.
If she had refused, the two would have taken extreme measures to have things go their way.
“Have someone deliver the original copies of the video and photos here now. I’ll get my brother to send Vivian over,” Kathleen instructed.
Dissatisfaction shadowed all over Tracy’s face, but there was little else she could do in the situation.
Hence, she ordered one of her subordinates to head back and collect the original copies.
Kathleen phoned Charles. “Hey, Charles, bring Vivian over. Let’s settle the matter today.”
“Okay.” Charles, who was on the other end of the line, nodded.
With that, Kathleen hung up and looked over at Ryan. “Get us a bigger room.”
“Got it!” Ryan nodded.
“Let’s go,” Kathleen said while shooting Tracy an apathetic glance.
The latter took two steps before pausing on the spot. She then looked over at Samuel to ask, “Can I ask you something, Mr. Macari?”
“Go ahead,” replied an impatient Samuel.
Once more, Tracy paused for a brief moment before asking, “Did you arrange for Wendy to put on that show earlier?”
“Yeah,” Samuel candidly replied.
That instantly baffled Tracy.
Never did she expect Samuel to admit it.
Yet, he did.
It seemed that the man was not even worried about her seeking revenge on him.
Kathleen had heard the two’s exchange as well.
Gosh! Samuel is really fearless, huh?
Soon, they arrived at the largest banquet hall on the first floor.
There were no activities or conventions for the day, so the banquet hall was empty.
It did not take long before some men carried Caleb, who sat on a chair, into the hall.
The entire situation dumbfounded him as he yelled, “Kathleen! Let me go!”
In response, a look of indifference appeared on Kathleen’s face. “No. You’re too reckless and can mess things up.”
That was enough to render Caleb speechless.
Nevertheless, he soon regained his senses and thundered, “Need I remind you that this matter involves my sister?”
“So what? Things will proceed smoothly even without your presence. Do you seriously think you’re that important?” Kathleen questioned.
No response came from Caleb at that point.
He figured that he had pissed her off by shoving her earlier.
However, it was not intentional, as he was not thinking straight at that time.
“Um, about me shoving you aside earlier… You’re not hurt, are you?” Caleb eventually asked with concern.
“She’s fine.” Samuel’s frosty glare pierced Caleb as he added, “If it happens again, I’ll chop your hands off.”
Silence befell Caleb as he cautiously eyed Samuel.
He knew he was indeed at fault for acting so brashly despite Kathleen’s sincere intentions.
Just then, Tracy’s subordinate returned with a bag in hand.
Tracy glanced over before instructing, “Hand it to them!”
Her subordinate approached Kathleen while speaking with the utmost respect. “Here are the items you requested, Mrs. Macari.”
Kathleen was at a loss for words upon hearing the formal title given to her.
Cough! Cough!
Samuel cleared his throat, clarifying, “I had nothing to do with that.”
Enraged, Kathleen was quick to reply, “It’s all because you keep showing up beside me, and that causes a misunderstanding for everyone!”
“Yeah. It’s my fault,” Samuel soothed.
Only a huff came from Kathleen as she felt Samuel did not realize his mistakes.
Nevertheless, she accepted the bag containing many photos and the video stored on a memory card.
She glanced at the photos but felt they were too jarring, so she quickly stuffed them back into the bag.
“Have someone bring a metal bucket over,” ordered Kathleen.
In that instance, she seemed like the boss of the place as everyone obeyed her demands.
However, Kathleen knew others were only complying with her for Samuel’s sake.
She felt deep down that she was merely playing out an act of being powerful.
Ryan quickly ordered some of his staff to fetch a metal bucket.
Not long passed before Charles arrived at the scene with Vivian.
That was Vivian’s first time leaving the mansion in three years.
She wore a light yellow dress that reached her ankles and tied her hair with a red scarf from Belmonia. Pure innocence exuded from her presence.
However, her skin was so pale under the chandeliers’ sparkling lights that it almost looked translucent.
Tracy could tell Vivian was ill.
Yet, the former felt utterly displeased as the latter still appeared stunningly gorgeous despite being unwell.
What right does she have to be so beautiful even when she’s clearly sick?
Charles continued to hold Vivian’s hand, providing her with comfort and support. “Everything’s okay. Relax.”
Like always, a look of innocence flashed in Vivian’s eyes as she asked, “Charles, why are we here? Is it to attend an event?”
Not a word came from Charles.
“Oh, I know! You’re taking me to a ball, aren’t you? Well, why didn’t you say so? I would’ve worn my favorite leather heels. Um, where did I put them?” Vivian continued to speak with a naïve and confused expression.
“We’re not here to attend a ball,” Charles grimly interjected.
“We’re not?” Vivian’s brows drew close.
What are we doing here then?
“Charles,” Kathleen called out.
With a cold expression, Charles swept his gaze past everyone at the scene.
Is Finn not here?
Meanwhile, Vivian noticed her brother and asked curiously, “What are you doing here, Caleb?”
“Vivian! Help untie me,” Caleb urged.
Although Vivian tried to reach out, Charles nudged her away and said, “Don’t mind him.”
Vivian blinked in surprise before retorting, “But he’s my brother.”
“My sister asked someone to tie him up,” Charles explained.
That shocked Vivian, who exclaimed, “Gosh! I had no idea your sister was into that kind of thing.”
An awkward silence filled the air as both Charles and Kathleen did not know how to react.
Contrarily, Caleb narrowed his eyes while Samuel’s expression darkened.
Kathleen adjusted her emotions and took a deep breath before speaking. “Charles, could you step back? I’d like for us women to deal with this matter ourselves.”
Charles tensed up upon hearing that.
However, Kathleen instantly looked over and held Vivian’s hand. The former said in a gentle tone, “Come with me.”
Vivian hesitated for a moment but eventually nodded.
The two then arrived hand in hand before Tracy, whose arms were crossed.
However, Tracy instantly uncrossed her arms as soon as she noticed Kathleen glaring at her.
D*mn it!
“Who are you? Why do you look so familiar?” Vivian asked confusedly.
She felt a sense of familiarity but could not quite pinpoint where or how she had met Tracy.
“Do you have amnesia?” asked a frowning Tracy.
Those words further confused Vivian, who questioned, “Yeah… Have I lost my memories? Why can’t I remember?”
“Vivian, this woman’s name is Tracy Smith. She caused you great harm in the past, but she intends to apologize to you today,” Kathleen coldly stated.
“Apologize?” Vivian’s brows raised as she queried in perplexity, “Why does she want to apologize?”
“Um… Vivian, do you remember…” Kathleen struggled to utter the words but eventually continued, “About those pictures?”
Pictures?
Initially, Vivian blinked as though she felt lost about what was going on.
Yet, her expression suddenly contorted into one of hysteria in the next moment.
“Pictures? T-Those pictures!”
The sudden turn of events made Charles uneasy as he hurriedly stepped forward to intervene.
However, Samuel reached out and gripped his shoulder. “Calm down.”
Samuel thought they should have faith in Kathleen.
Meanwhile, Kathleen held Vivian’s hand while stating, “Finn didn’t hire someone to take those pictures of you back then. It was her.”
Vivian stiffened then and there.
Her dumbfounded gaze remained on Tracy for a long while.
“She knows what she did was wrong now and wants to apologize to you,” Kathleen explained.
Chapter 253
Where The Hell Are You
All the blood drained from Vivian’s face at that moment.
Even her limbs were trembling fervently.
While watching the entire scene unfold from the side, Charles and Caleb both felt worried.
“Why did you do that to me?” Vivian cast a blank look at Tracy.
She had always assumed Finn was the one behind the matter.
Cold laughter came from a sneering Tracy. “Because you kept clinging on to Finn like a leech. Jeez… Vivian, he and I are already married. If his love for you was truly deep and genuine, why would he marry me?”
Vivian gnawed on her bottom lip in annoyance, countering, “That’s because his family forced him to marry you.”
“His family didn’t say that he had to choose between marrying me or taking his own life. That means he clearly loves power and glory over you,” Tracy hissed.
That made Vivian turn even paler.
Kathleen shot a surprised look at Tracy.
Doesn’t Tracy know everything? She should be aware that Finn doesn’t have feelings for her then. Why is she still so obsessed with him? How puzzling.
“I don’t mind if he doesn’t love me. However, I can’t stand that you keep clinging on to him!” A murderous look crept up Tracy’s hideously frowning face. She seethed with utter rage, “Don’t you know how irksome you are? Constantly bothering us like a pest and causing a scene at our home! You’re the reason we can’t have a peaceful life!”
“I-I just…” Vivian faltered as tears trickled down her cheeks.
“Tracy! Why are you saying all of that?” a furious Kathleen interrupted. “Just apologize!”
It was then that Tracy bit her lips, stopping herself from going on. Instead, she reluctantly muttered, “Sorry.”
Several tears dotted Vivian’s long, dark lashes at that point.
She said, “I can’t forgive you.”
“Well, I couldn’t care less.” Tracy turned to look elsewhere grumpily.
That was when Kathleen spoke with a frosty tone that could send chills down one’s spine. “Tracy, don’t you think you’ve gone too far by using these dirty tricks against Vivian?”
“I went too far?” Tracy scoffed. “That’s because you’ve never had an annoying pest bother you daily.”
“There are many ways in which you could’ve resolved this matter.” A cold gleam flashed across Kathleen’s hostile gaze. She added, “You didn’t have to do such a thing. Instead, you could’ve gotten Finn to clarify things with Vivian.”
“Oh, what do you know?” Tracy snarled.
A mighty, uncompromising rage flashed in Kathleen’s dark eyes at that point.
“Clearly, you don’t regret doing those vicious things, do you? Well, I won’t ever let you off easy!” Caleb barked from the chair he got tied to.
“Hmph! Come at me then! Do you think I’ll be afraid of you? As if! No one else in this world loves Finn more than I do!” asserted Tracy.
Kathleen frowned while turning back to her brother. “Charles! Look after Vivian for a bit.”
At once, Charles marched forward and stood before Vivian defensively.
He held her hand while comforting her with a gentle tone. “Don’t be afraid. I’m here.”
Vivian’s hand was ice cold.
Tracy looked at them, then lowered her head.
By then, Kathleen had walked to Samuel’s side and asked in a soft voice, “What’s Finn and Tracy’s relationship like?”
“Why don’t you ask her?” replied a smirking Samuel.
“Duh. She’ll probably say that Finn adores her a lot. Asking her would just be a waste of my breath.” Kathleen shrugged.
Just then, Samuel cracked a joke. “You’re not wasting your breath because you’ll still need to breathe either way.”
Feeling speechless at his lame joke, she ordered, “Answer my question.”
“They’re not on good terms at all.”
“You arranged for Wendy to say those things earlier, didn’t you?”
Samuel nodded.
“So, did Wendy tell you how Tracy and Finn get along with each other on a daily basis?” Kathleen curiously asked.
Samuel instantly turned to instruct his men, “Get Wendy over here now.”
“Yes, sir.” One of his bodyguards hurriedly carried out the task.
Not long passed before Wendy got escorted into the hall.
She had not left the private club yet.
Upon entering the hall, she awkwardly slunk over to Samuel and Kathleen.
“Ms. Johnson has a question for you. You’d best answer it earnestly,” Samuel icily ordered.
Wendy fervently nodded. “Okay.”
“How is Finn and Tracy’s relationship?” Kathleen probed while staring intently at her.
That question took Wendy by surprise, and she answered, “Tracy’s practically a simp for Finn. She showers him with affection, and it’s almost as if she is his slave. However, Finn couldn’t care less about her. He would rather speak with me than her.”
Kathleen frowned but pressed on, “What else?”
Wendy was stumped, so she asked, “What would you like to know, Ms. Johnson?”
“What do they normally chat about?” Kathleen questioned.
Despite being flustered, Wendy responded, “You have no idea, Ms. Johnson. Back when I stayed in the Morris residence as a housekeeper, Finn would talk to me more than with her. Even if the two were on speaking terms, they would be arguing.”
“What would they normally fight about?” Kathleen continued probing.
“I couldn’t catch what they were fighting about, since they often fought behind closed doors. The one time I managed to listen in was when they argued during a meal. A member of the Stewart family encountered some problems and wanted Tracy to ask for Finn’s help. However, Finn declined, so Tracy snapped at him. I recall him saying something about how the Smith family lied to him.”
Kathleen’s brows furrowed. Lied to him?
Seeing Kathleen in deep thoughts, Samuel coldly spoke up. “You can wait back there. If Ms. Johnson needs anything else from you, we’ll call you over.”
“Okay.” Wendy nodded before backing away to the side of the hall.
It was then that Kathleen shot an exceedingly grim look at Tracy.
Her low tone almost sounded like a growl. “How can there be a bigger idiot than me when it comes to falling blindly for someone?”
Samuel’s gaze became a tad frosty as he countered, “I’m not like Finn.”
Kathleen raised a brow upon hearing his statement. “I’m merely saying that Tracy and I are similar. I’m not talking about you and Finn. Why do you seem so bothered? Do you feel guilty?”
Samuel clamped his lips shut at that moment.
After all, an intelligent man would know not to talk back when arguing with a woman.
“Hmph!” Kathleen scoffed before storming over to Caleb.
All that remained was a frowning Samuel, who felt that he had misspoken again.
“Caleb, how do you plan to resolve this matter?” Kathleen locked eyes with him.
“Are you seriously asking me?” Caleb questioned with a prickly tone.
“Yes, I am.”
“Didn’t you get someone to tie me up so that I can’t do anything?” Caleb pouted.
However, he would never dare to be mad at Kathleen.
“That’s because you tend to act rashly,” Kathleen replied. “Now, I’m asking you what you would like to do regarding the matter.”
“Now that things have come to this point, I will never let the Smith family go!” Caleb uttered resolutely.
Kathleen was rendered speechless. She eventually commented, “Thank goodness I tied you up.”
Caleb glared at her upon hearing that.
However, Kathleen did not want to waste any more time talking to him.
She turned around to stare daggers at Tracy. “Call Finn and say that you’re being held captive by us. Tell him that he’s to show up here in person if he wants you to return alive.”
Tracy tensed at once.
What did she say?
Her eyes opened wide as she gawked at Kathleen with puzzlement, then she shifted her gaze to Vivian.
No! I can’t do that!
“Aren’t you and Finn a loving couple? Why won’t you call him? Won’t he come to your rescue if you’re in trouble?” Kathleen now knew how to get on Tracy’s nerves, so she went all the way.
“Of course he will!” Tracy said through clenched teeth.
“Quit wasting our time, then! Make the call,” Kathleen thundered. “Unless you want me to release Caleb and lock you two in here.”
Having heard the conversation, Caleb sardonically piped up, “Gee, thanks for comparing me to a bloodhound!”
Kathleen glowered at him.
Meanwhile, Tracy stole a glimpse of the tied-up Caleb.
She knew she would only suffer a great deal if she were to end up in his grasp.
Left without a choice, she could only ask Finn to come over and pick her up.
She took out her phone and dialed a number before placing the phone by her ear.
After two rings, an indifferent-sounding man spoke from the other end of the line. “Don’t you know what time it is? Where the hell are you?”
Chapter 254
Nothing Wrong
Tracy’s body tensed.
She said, “Kathleen and the others captured me.”
“What?” Finn frowned.
“They say they will only release me if you come here. Otherwise, they’ll let Caleb beat me up. Darling, you cannot leave me to my own devices,” Tracy uttered indignantly.
Fury flashed across Finn’s eyes. “Did I not tell you to stay away from them? What were you thinking?”
“They are too cunning,” Tracy replied sheepishly.
Finn gritted his teeth. “Did you mention anything you’re not supposed to?”
She shook her head fervently. “No, I didn’t. Hurry up and save me, Darling.”
“I got it. You’re so troublesome!” Finn was mad.
Tracy was ashamed by her incompetence as she hung up the phone.
Kathleen stared at Tracy with a poker face.
Is it worth taking such a risk for a man who doesn’t love you?
Tracy appeared to be in a daze.
Charles knew Finn would come later, so he helped Vivian to a seat.
Samuel walked over, dragging Kathleen along as they sat down too.
“Ryan, bring us some beverage,” he said to Ryan.
“All right!” Ryan ordered his subordinate to prepare the drinks.
Soon, someone brought over some fruits and drinks.
That’s very thoughtful.
Kathleen did not eat anything earlier, so her stomach was empty.
She picked up a fork and helped herself to the fruits after the fruit platter was served on the table.
Samuel poured a cup of hot coffee for her and set it aside for the heat to dissipate.
Tracy was left alone and isolated from the others present.
She sat down as well afterward.
A dozen minutes later, Finn entered.
He was slightly astounded after taking in the scene.
Vivian immediately leaped to her feet when she saw him.
Their eyes met.
A hint of hostility gleamed across Finn’s eyes, but he quickly recollected himself.
He narrowed his eyes and shifted his cold gaze onto Kathleen. “Ms. Johnson, may I bring Tracy away?”
Kathleen looked at him indifferently. “Finn, aren’t you curious why we detained Tracy?”
Finn curled his lips. “Tracy was pampered and spoiled growing up, so she can be quite willful in handling matters. I apologize in her stead if she offended any of you.”
“Finn!” Caleb gritted his teeth. “To prevent my sister from pestering you, Tracy instructed some men to taint my sister’s purity, and those animals even took pictures in the process. Do you think that’s a trivial matter?”
Finn knitted his brows and narrowed his eyes at Tracy.
Tracy’s eyes glinted when Finn entered earlier.
However, his gaze lingered on Kathleen and Vivian but never rested on her, as if she was non-existent.
“You did that?” Finn asked coolly.
She nodded. “Yes, I did that.”
He turned to look at Caleb and uttered apologetically, “This is my first time hearing this. In that case, I am truly sorry for what happened.”
Caleb’s dark eyes shone with malicious intent.
“Finn.” Vivian bit her lip with tears in her eyes.
Finn said to her in the same regretful tone, “Ms. Lewis, I truly am sorry.”
Vivian was stunned.
Kathleen finished her coffee and stood up.
“Finn, something has been troubling my mind, and I hope you’ll be able to enlighten me on this issue,” she said coldly.
Samuel narrowed his eyes.
He knew it was about time for Kathleen to make her move.
“Ask away, Ms. Johnson,” Finn smiled slyly.
“In the past, your family members arranged a marriage for you with someone from the Smith family. You married the woman, but why didn’t you explain the situation to Vivian? Why did you leave without saying a word?” Kathleen questioned him calmly.
Finn remained silent.
“To the best of my knowledge, you did not break up with her. Instead, you gave her the cold shoulder. Is that correct?” she asked further.
Finn narrowed his eyes. “I thought she would understand. What else is there to explain if a man decides to ditch a woman? To be honest, I thought you should know better, Ms. Johnson. After all…”
He glanced at Samuel.
The latter was unfazed by the turns of events.
Kathleen sneered. “I hope you’re not assuming a feeble attempt like that will provoke me.”
“I wouldn’t dare to do so,” Finn said, obviously up to no good.
Kathleen’s expression was gloomy. “In that case, you should end things properly with her right here, right now.”
Everyone was dumbfounded.
Kathleen said, “What’s the matter? Are you reluctant to do so? Don’t tell me you still like her.”
Finn answered casually, “How is that possible? My feelings for her have long gone.”
Vivian’s face turned pale.
Finn turned around and stared at Vivian coldly. “I’m sorry for what happened three years ago. I did not clarify things with you, but I hope you’ll understand. I do not love you anymore.”
Tears welling up in her eyes streamed down her cheeks.
She gazed at him as her heart ached terribly.
“Why is that?” she asked, unwilling to accept that outcome.
“There’s no reason for someone to stop loving another person. I do not like the way you need to clarify everything in a relationship, Vivian. Don’t you think it is better for a gray and undefined zone to exist in a relationship? Do you get what I mean?”
Vivian shook her head. “I don’t get it!”
“Let me make myself clear, then. I pursued you because I was lonely during my school days, so I needed a girl to accompany me. I married Tracy because her family and background are beneficial to me. That’s all.”
Vivian sobbed, “You’re too cruel.”
“That’s cruel? Isn’t that plain selfishness?” Even Ryan could not bear to listen further.
Finn sneered. “Everyone will always put their own benefit above others. I believe that’s a principle that everyone could grasp. I’m just chasing after my desires. Is that wrong?”
Kathleen did not expect Finn to be so shameless and despicable.
He had never treated Vivian wholeheartedly. She was nothing more than a plaything to him.
Charles clenched his fists as his eyes turned icy cold.
Kathleen laughed mockingly. “Finn, your words are truly enlightening and have provided me with such new insights. I was indeed too narrow-minded.”
Finn sensed her sarcastic tone.
He gazed frostily at Tracy. “Why are you still sitting there? Let’s go.”
Tracy slowly stood up.
Kathleen walked up to Caleb and stood behind him.
Tracy strode over to Finn’s side and said indignantly, “I’m sorry.”
“Hmph!”
Finn snorted before turning on his heels.
Kathleen bent down to untie Caleb while saying, “Finn, you’re the most inhumane person I’ve ever met. You’re worse than a beast.”
Finn stopped in his tracks and turned to look at her.
Kathleen tossed away the ropes in her hands.
Caleb got to his feet.
I’m finally free!
“Please mind your manners and show some respect, Ms. Johnson!” Finn was furious.
Kathleen scoffed, “Respect? Does a sc*m like you deserve that?”
He glowered at her.
Kathleen stepped forward. “Finn, how dare you act so righteously when you’ve committed the wrongdoing but let a woman take the blame for you?”
Finn’s expression changed drastically.
Everyone was shocked.
Caleb was taken aback. “What did you say?”
“No, I did that. Finn has nothing to do with this matter!” Tracy suddenly became very agitated.
“Tracy, there is nothing wrong with you loving someone, but do you know what you’re doing right now is no different from holding a candle to the devil?” Kathleen said emotionlessly.
Tracy fell into a daze. “No, I don’t know. Anyway, this has nothing to do with Finn. That’s the truth!”
“Pull yourself together. This man will not fall for you simply because you take the blame for him. On the contrary, he’s desperately hoping you’ll be imprisoned or even be murdered by Caleb because of this matter,” Kathleen uttered sarcastically.
Chapter 255
Not A Despicable Man
Tracy’s body stiffened.
“Tracy, if something happens to you, Finn will have a reason to divorce you. Don’t tell me you think he will wait for you to be released if you’re imprisoned,” Kathleen reminded.
Tracy’s face turned pale.
“By then, your family will have lost everything they currently have, and their lives will hit rock bottom because of you. Do you think they will not hate you when you get out of jail?” Kathleen pressed further.
“I…” Tracy paused and looked in Finn’s direction.
Finn sneered. “Ms. Johnson, are you trying to sow discord between another couple because your marriage is filled with misfortune? That’s not really appropriate, don’t you think?”
“I don’t have a choice, since you’ve enlightened me with how a real j*rk would behave. Even Mr. Macari seems cute and innocent in comparison,” she replied.
Samuel snorted to express his frustration.
Do not compare me to Finn!
“F*ck you, Finn!” While they were talking, Caleb dashed up to Finn, grasped his collar, and punched him.
Kathleen knew Caleb was a good fighter.
The corner of Finn’s mouth started bleeding at once.
“Darling!” Tracy went to help Finn up.
He pushed her away. “Get lost!”
The silverware on the table clanked noisily as she regained her balance by supporting her weight on the table.
She turned to look at Finn and Caleb.
They were already engaged in a fight.
Kathleen did not intend to stop them.
According to her analysis, Caleb had the ability to outfight Finn.
Since the law failed to punish a j*rk like Finn, I’ll just let Caleb handle him. Finn is not as good at fighting as Caleb, anyway. After all, Caleb used to be a gangster.
Finn was overwhelmed by Caleb after they exchanged a few punches.
Tracy grabbed Caleb’s leg in desperation. “Please, I beg you. Stop hitting him. No!”
“Go away!” Caleb thundered furiously and booted her.
Still, she did not let go.
“If you still want to avenge your sister, then direct your anger at me!” Tracy yelled.
“Don’t think that I do not dare to hit women! I’m not as gentlemanly as you think I am!” Caleb bellowed.
Tracy gritted her teeth and wrapped her arms tightly around his leg.
Meanwhile, Finn merely stared at them without showing any willingness to help Tracy.
Kathleen gazed at Vivian while the latter turned to look at her as well.
“Do you see what I mean now? Think this through. Are you going to let your brother commit the biggest error of his life here because of that man, or will you continue to hold on to that despicable man?” Kathleen questioned her coldly.
Vivian covered her face as she wept in silence.
Charles stared at her.
“Stop what you’re doing, Caleb!” Vivian shouted all of a sudden.
She withdrew her hands from Charles’ and walked up to Caleb. “That’s enough. Stop hitting her.”
Caleb paused.
She held his hands and said, “She’s not at fault. Don’t harm the innocent.”
He gritted his teeth and snorted.
In fact, Tracy was fine, aside from being kicked once by Caleb.
Vivian strode up to Finn. “So, you orchestrated the whole thing?”
Finn remained silent.
“Say something!” She grabbed his collar. “You dare to do all those things, yet you do not have the courage to admit your doings?”
He gazed down at her with an unfathomable expression. “That’s right. I did it. So what?”
Tears streamed down from the corner of Vivian’s eyes again. “Why? Why did you do this to me? Why did you have to be so cruel?”
“That’s because you’re too stupid! I ignored you simply because I did not wish to be with you anymore, yet you demanded I clarify things with you. What else could I say? I told you I didn’t love you anymore, but did you believe me?”
She sniffled. “But I thought you were acting against your own will. I assumed you were forced to marry Tracy.”
Finn sneered. “And that’s why I said you’re stupid!”
Vivian was stunned.
I’m stupid? He’s right. I am stupid. That’s why I fell in love with a man like him. Haha! All these misfortunes that befell me must have been my punishments.
“You b*stard!” Caleb was livid.
He reached out to punch Finn, but the latter avoided his attack.
That prompted Caleb’s anger to intensify.
However, Vivian grasped her brother’s arm. “Caleb, this is a matter between him and me. You’re not allowed to intervene!”
Caleb recollected himself and stayed still afterward.
“Finn, even if I am stupid, you shouldn’t have hurt someone who loved you.” She wiped her tears off as she continued, “Haha… Won’t your conscience be guilt-ridden after you rendered me in such a pathetic state?”
“He has no conscience, presumably having lost it a long time ago!” Caleb snapped.
Finn stared at Vivian with a poker face. “Don’t you understand me?”
Understand you?
Vivian found his question to be comical. “I have to understand you after you hurt me cruelly? You’re ridiculous, Finn!”
He grabbed her wrist and whispered so that others could not listen in on their exchange, “You’re defiled, anyway. I’ll offer you to be my mistress. What do you say?”
Slap!
She slapped him hard on the face and thundered, “F*ck off!”
Finn curled his lips into a derisive smile and let go of her. Then, he dragged Tracy along and left.
“Vivian, what did he say?” Caleb frowned.
What’s with her sudden, exaggerated response?
Vivian was reluctant to answer him.
She merely gazed at the merciless Finn’s leaving figure from behind and sneered.
What a brutal man. He drove me insane and still deliberately humiliated me in that manner.
“Let’s go home, Caleb,” Vivian uttered.
“Okay.” He nodded.
The siblings proceeded to make their way out.
Charles moved to Kathleen’s side. “Tracy took the blame for Finn?”
“Her affection toward Finn has caused her to lose herself. Her thought process baffles me,” Kathleen said indifferently.
Charles pursed his lips. “I still think something doesn’t feel right about this matter.”
Kathleen nodded in agreement. “I have this similar feeling too. However, the rest is no longer our problem now. I think Vivian will no longer feel troubled by this matter.”
Charles knitted his brows. “Really?”
“I think so.” She paused briefly before adding, “It’s up to her now if she’s able to leave the past behind completely.”
“I’ll go to the Lewis residence to visit her tomorrow,” Charles said.
“Okay.” Kathleen nodded. “I’m going back to the hotel, Charles. Please take care of the family, especially Granny.”
“All right.” Charles nodded.
Kathleen was about to leave when Samuel piped up, “I’ll send you home.”
She raised her brows at him. “That’s not needed.”
Samuel frowned.
What did I do to offend her?
Kathleen walked away.
Samuel hastily put on his jacket and chased after her.
When they arrived at the entrance, he pulled her into his embrace and clamped her figure between his underarm and body.
Then, he forced her into his car.
Kathleen was rendered speechless.
D*mn it! I don’t even have to chance to struggle!
Samuel got into the car and narrowed his eyes at her. “Why are you mad at me?”
“I’m not. I wouldn’t dare to be mad at you,” Kathleen replied indifferently.
Samuel snorted coldly. “You’re mad at me right now. I’m not Finn. I admitted everything I’d done in the past. Why are you being snarky?”
“Say whatever you want.” She turned to gaze outside the window.
Samuel pursed his lips and tugged on Kathleen’s arm, pulling her to his side. He then said softly, “Did the encounter with the j*rk remind you of the hatred you harbored toward me?”
Kathleen did not say a word.
Samuel was anxious. “Kate, I’m not a j*rk anymore. I swear!”
Chapter 256
Go To Hell
Samuel felt helpless whenever he faced Kathleen.
No matter how much he tried, she would not accept him.
He felt as though he had fallen into an abyss, and he couldn’t extricate himself from it.
“Samuel, I didn’t ask you to like me,” Kathleen said heartlessly.
Samuel looked at her icily as he scoffed, “You’re really hard-hearted.”
She remained silent, and he let her go.
Just as she thought he was giving up and was about to back away, he stopped her from leaving his embrace, tightening his grip on her waist. “Don’t move!”
Kathleen was speechless.
“I just want to hug you.” His voice was deep.
He didn’t know how he could have her.
Even though he could see her, he realized he still could not touch her.
All this while, he had been rather confident with himself, thinking that he could win her heart again.
However, as time went by, only then did he realize Kathleen was like a kite with a broken string. Unless she came back to him of her own will, he could never get her back.
Caleb sent Vivian back to her room in the Lewis residence.
“Vivian, are you all right?” he asked concernedly.
She nodded. “I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.”
“Vivian, you don’t have to care much about that man’s words. There are still many good men in this world,” Caleb comforted.
Vivian looked at her brother. “Caleb, you really don’t have to worry. I’ve come to my senses.”
Caleb merely stared at her in silence.
Vivian sighed. “I was too stubborn back then. I used to put love and romantic relationships above all else, yet I was badly hurt by men.”
“Vivian…” Caleb didn’t know what to say.
In his opinion, forgetting the past would be the best.
“Vivian, I heard that Charles knew of a fantastic therapist. Perhaps you can undergo hypnotherapy and forget that incident.”
Vivian gave him a solemn look and forced a smile. “What’s the point of that? People will mention it anyway.”
Caleb was crestfallen.
Whatever had happened had happened. There was no way to pretend as though everything was fine.
“Vivian, don’t worry. I won’t let Finn get away with it!” Caleb declared furiously.
Vivian replied with a complicated look, “Caleb, thank you, but I don’t need it. I don’t want you to do more for me.”
Caleb was stunned.
She put her hand on his head, smiling gently. “The little guy who always followed me around back then has grown up. I had been lost for so long that I didn’t realize it.”
He gazed at her intently. “Vivian.”
“All right. It’s getting late. You should sleep,” she reminded.
Caleb nodded. “Vivian, I’ll ask someone to remove the window bars, or perhaps I should let you move to a new room and decorate it with the design you like.”
He hoped that she could live her life gracefully as before.
Vivian replied softly, “Okay.”
“Good night, Vivian.” With that said, Caleb left the room.
After she watched him enter his own room, she went back to her room and closed the door.
As she lay on the cold bed and stared blankly at the ceiling, tears of humiliation and anguish streamed down her face.
Finn, go to hell!
The next day, Kathleen was filming as usual.
After that, she went to the side to take a rest.
Valerie approached her with a smile. “Kate, look. You have visitors.”
Kathleen turned toward the direction of her voice and found that Frances and Diana had come to visit her.
“Old Mrs. Macari? Granny?” Kathleen was surprised.
The two old ladies were dressed in casual outfits as they stood not far away from her, waving at her.
Kathleen chuckled before noticing Samuel’s tall and lean figure.
Why is he here too?
When the director saw Samuel had come, he let everyone have a two-hour break.
Kathleen went toward the two old ladies with a spring in her step.
“Katie, you looked awesome just now!” Diana praised.
“Of course. I practiced for a long time,” Kathleen said proudly.
“Yeah, you looked like a superwoman.” Frances also laughed.
“Let’s go to my break room.” Kathleen held the two ladies’ hands and walked toward her break room, completely ignoring Samuel.
He was rendered speechless.
D*mn it! I’m the one who’s supposed to be angry, and yet, she still has the audacity to pay no heed to me! How daring she is!
When Tyson saw Samuel being neglected, the former said, “It seems like Ms. Johnson doesn’t want to see you, Mr. Macari.”
“You know nothing!” Samuel was displeased.
Tyson fell silent.
I know. I know everything.
“Give out the things brought by Grandma and Old Mrs. Yoeger. I’ll go have a look.” Samuel was about to go.
Tyson reminded him, “Mr. Macari, are you going to embarrass yourself?”
“Embarrass myself?” Samuel glared at him.
“It’s obvious, isn’t it? Ms. Johnson is giving you the cold shoulder.”
“She won’t.” Samuel was quite confident.
With that, he strode toward Kathleen’s break room.
Just as he entered the room, he heard Diana remind Kathleen. “It’s going to get cold these few days. It’s so cold in the film set. You have to take care of yourself.”
“Don’t worry, Old Mrs. Macari.” Kathleen smiled.
Samuel coughed.
Kathleen looked over, and a trace of worry flashed past her eyes.
Diana said solemnly, “Since you’re sick, why are you here? Go home.”
He was speechless again.
Only my grandma would be so unhelpful.
While he stood quietly at the side, Diana and Frances asked Kathleen many questions, as they were interested in filming.
They chatted until two hours later when the filming began.
Only then did the old ladies stand up to leave.
As a result, Samuel could not even have a word with Kathleen, as he had been standing there quietly.
Kathleen was not involved in the first scene to be filmed, so she saw them off.
When she sent the two old ladies to the entrance, Samuel did not follow along. Instead, he stayed behind in the break room.
Although Kathleen noticed that, she did not say anything because she planned to continue to give him the cold shoulder.
After seeing the two old ladies off, Kathleen went back inside to work.
She did not care when Samuel would leave, so she did not ask Valerie as well.
When the clock struck seven, the film crew wrapped up their work.
Kathleen felt exhausted after having to be suspended in the air with stunt wires all day.
When she entered her break room, she found Samuel lying on the couch.
He had a lean and fit figure with a flat tummy, making the belt on his waist exceptionally pleasing to the eyes.
So he’s still here.
Kathleen walked toward him and bent over, reaching out to poke his face. “Samuel, why did you fall asleep?”
However, when her hand touched his face, she realized that he was having a fever.
Oh, no!
She shook him. “Samuel, wake up!”
He opened his bloodshot eyes slowly, his voice raspy. “I dozed off?”
“You’re having a fever.” Kathleen frowned. “Even though this is a break room, the heater here is not warm enough. You shouldn’t have slept here. What were you thinking?”
She felt quite angry.
Samuel’s body condition had been improving these few days, but it was now back to square one.
Chapter 257
Do Not Ignore Me
When Samuel saw that she was upset, he immediately put on an innocent look.
“But you didn’t talk to me today, so I wanted to wait until you were free to have a chat with you.” He tugged at her sleeves like a puppy. “I didn’t disturb you. I was just waiting for you to get off work.”
Kathleen was at a loss for words.
He sat up and asked, “Do you have something to tell me?”
She was stunned momentarily before she shook her head lightly.
Samuel smiled bitterly. “Okay. That’s all for our chat today. I’m leaving.”
With that, he stood up, his body swaying slightly.
“Where’s Tyson?” Kathleen queried.
“It’s seven now. He’s gotten off work,” Samuel answered.
She stared at him, feeling speechless.
How could I let him go back alone when he’s in this state?
After thinking for a while, she said, “You should go back to the hotel with me.”
Samuel’s eyes lit up instantly.
She continued, “Call someone and let them pick you up.”
Samuel had a lot of subordinates, so they could just drive over to fetch him.
“Kate, it’s seven o’clock. They’re all off work now.” Samuel paused for a moment before he added, “If I force them to work overtime, they’ll say I’m an evil businessman.”
Once again, Kathleen was stumped.
“Let’s go then.” She felt a slight pain in her head.
No one could outsmart him when he was playing tricks like a sly fox.
Besides, she couldn’t leave him behind when he was having a fever.
People say that women are willful, but men are more willful!
If she paid no heed to him and left him here, she was worried that he might stay in that break room for the entire night and freeze to death.
Samuel left with Kathleen in a car and reached the hotel.
The hotel room was warm.
When they stepped inside, she helped him to the bed.
After that, she opened the drawer and searched for something.
“Valerie, help me buy some medication for fever. Also, buy two sets of dinner while you’re on the way back. Get something light,” Kathleen ordered.
“All right.” Valerie wheeled around and left.
Kathleen then rubbed his forehead with a hot towel.
Samuel put his large hand on hers. “Kate, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have made you mad yesterday. It’s okay no matter how you look at me or scold me, but please don’t ignore me.”
Rendered speechless, she stared at him and said, “I’m not angry.”
She was not lying, but what had happened the previous day got her thinking.
“Are you really not upset?” He furrowed his brows. “You didn’t even talk to me while we were in the car.”
Kathleen was starting to lose her patience. “Samuel, you’re the one at fault.”
Samuel pursed his lips.
“What did I say yesterday, huh?” She shot him a disdainful look. “You’re the one who started it. You felt that you were a j*rk in my eyes, but did I say that? You’re the one who overthought, and yet you’re trying to blame it on me.”
Samuel knew it was his fault, so he started to play dirty and change the subject. “My head hurts.”
Kathleen stared at him wordlessly.
“Kate?” he called out in a pitiful, deep voice.
She heaved a long sigh. “Samuel, what have I done to deserve this?”
With that, she reached out and massaged his temples.
A hint of seriousness emerged on his attractive face.
Kathleen is too soft-hearted.
There was a pleasant floral scent on her. It was not intense and made people feel relaxed.
Gradually, Samuel fell asleep as he breathed in her scent.
Kathleen continued to massage his head for a while before she stopped.
Valerie soon came back with bags in her hands.
“Thank you. You should head back.” Kathleen took over the items.
“Kate, I shall go back to my room next door then. Call me if you need anything,” Valerie responded.
Kathleen nodded. “Eat well and go to sleep early.”
“Okay.” Valerie smiled and went out of the room.
Before leaving, she closed the door.
Kathleen took the medication and put it on the bedside table, thinking that she would give it to Samuel when he woke up.
Then, she sat at a small table and enjoyed her dinner slowly.
Her dinner was simple—boiled broccoli and boiled chicken breast.
As she ate, she stared blankly ahead, pondering about her relationship with Samuel.
She had a feeling that he would not stop pestering her, but she hoped that he could give up one day.
Am I not assertive enough?
Back then, she had made a fuss at the wedding ceremony because she was disappointed with Samuel.
After a year, she realized she didn’t hate him as much as before.
Besides, he had punished himself, so she could not bring herself to be harsh on him.
She sighed. “Samuel, do you know you’re making things difficult for me?”
She had run out of ways to push him away.
When Samuel woke up, only the bedside lamp was turned on, and the room was quiet and tranquil.
He was baffled. How long have I slept?
With the light from the lamp, he checked his wristwatch and saw that it was already three o’clock in the morning.
He had slept for a long time.
After he went home the previous day, he had not slept a wink because he had been angry with himself.
Therefore, he had gone to the office early in the morning. After he heard that Diana and Frances were going to visit Kathleen at work, he had followed along.
Then, while he waited for Kathleen, he dozed off.
I’ve been here for a long time. Will she be upset?
As he turned around, he saw Kathleen, who was sleeping next to him.
Her figure looked slim and elegant. She looked beautiful with her fair skin and her delicate facial features. Currently, she was sleeping soundly, her breathing steady.
Samuel didn’t dare to move around a lot for fear that he would wake her up.
Seeing her sleeping beside him, he felt at ease.
His slender fingers touched her hand. He then held her hand and put it on his chest.
How wonderful.
“There’s some food on the table. Have some and take the fever medication,” Kathleen mumbled groggily.
Being a light sleeper, she would be easily woken up by the slightest noise.
Hence, after Samuel and Kathleen got married, he would put his phone on silent when they slept to avoid disturbing her sleep.
“Did I wake you up?” Samuel spoke in a deep voice.
He didn’t mean to do that.
Raising her hand, Kathleen inched closer to him and put her hand on his forehead.
“You’re still having a slight fever.” She let out a yawn.
Then, she put her hand back under the cover and continued to sleep.
Samuel gazed at her affectionately.
“Why didn’t you wake me up?” he asked.
Kathleen huffed, “I’m not that cruel. I’m not you. You know you treated me badly in the past.”
“I know. I’m sorry, Kate,” Samuel apologized sincerely.
“Since you know it, why were you angry yesterday?” Kathleen questioned angrily.
Samuel remained silent.
She opened her eyes and continued, “Samuel, do you know? Actually, you’re no different from Finn, for you’re also a j*rk. You’re right that I think you’re a jerk like Finn— Mmph!”
She didn’t expect that he would kiss her all of a sudden.
After sucking on her crimson lips for a moment, he cupped her face with his large hand and said huskily, “Stop chiding me. I’m changing for the better.”
Kathleen snorted coldly.
He caressed her face. “I’ll go back after I eat the food and take the medication. You’ll need to do your makeup two hours later. It’s not good for us to be seen together by outsiders.”
Chapter 258
Another Chance
Kathleen said dryly, “No rush. I’m putting on makeup at nine because I don’t have any parts in the morning.”
Samuel pursed his lips and said, “All right. You may continue sleeping then. I’m going to accompany you.”
Kathleen sat up from the bed and said, “Samuel, could you ask me before you kiss me next time?”
Samuel was rendered speechless.
She wiped her lips and said, “I have multiple ways to push you away.”
She could have used medicine to render him unconscious, but she did not wish to do that.
“You surely will not agree to it if I ask. So, I’m going to rule this out.”
“Aren’t you afraid that I’m going to hate you?” Kathleen asked angrily.
“You already loathe me. Who knows when I’m going to die? Better get some more kisses before I kick the bucket,” Samuel said with a half-smile.
It was Kathleen’s turn to be rendered speechless.
“We’ll talk after you eat.” Kathleen sighed to herself. She could not keep this up with Samuel any longer.
Noticing that her expression was grim, he asked, “What do you want to talk about?”
“You can’t continue pestering me like this,” she said sternly.
Samuel sat up as well as he leaned against the headboard. “I don’t want to talk about that.”
“Then why did you ask me about it?” Kathleen was enraged.
That man was getting on her nerves.
Samuel flashed a half-smile at her.
Kathleen pinched her glabella and muttered, “Samuel, I hope you could be more serious.”
She thought she was being really patient with him.
Samuel trained his eyes on her and uttered, “I am being very serious right now, Kate.”
She put her hand down and said, “Samuel, let me be honest with you. The previous three-year marriage has scarred me for life. I can’t just move on just because you tell me you love me. You will never understand how terrified I am every time I sit in your car late at night. I am always plagued by this fear of not knowing just when you’re going to throw me out of the car.”
Samuel was stumped.
“I am haunted by countless worries. There may no longer be Nicolette standing between us, but there is no guarantee that there won’t be another Nicolette in the future. I do not wish to relive that past. Do you understand?” she explained with furrowed brows.
Samuel was at a loss for words when he saw how tormented Kathleen was.
The things that he used to do out of his whim had left an indelible mark on Kathleen.
He felt a numbing pain in his chest right then.
Kathleen leaned against the headboard and said, “Samuel, I’m not trying to play hard to get when I reject Caleb and the others. I really can’t.”
Samuel looked intently at her.
“Let me be frank with you. I’ve tried to accept Caleb or Chris. I thought if I were to cure myself, I need to move on and open up. But I just can’t move on. I’m terrified that all men will end up like you. I’m afraid of going through another failed marriage.”
Samuel looked wistfully at her. “Katie, I am so sorry.”
Why was I such an *sshole back then?
Kathleen did not appear too startled by his apology. “Samuel, do you understand what I’m trying to tell you? I will not be together with another man because I can’t. I can’t even make myself happy. So, I do not wish to make another man unhappy by dragging him down along with me.”
Samuel kept his silence for some time before he said, “Kate, how can I make it better?”
Kathleen looked lost. “I don’t know.”
Samuel felt a searing pain inside of him.
He approached Kathleen and circled her into his embrace.
She did not struggle or push him away, for she knew that Samuel was upset too.
Samuel then realized that she felt so fragile and delicate in his arms.
He had never felt such pain.
“Kate, what should I do?” His voice was hoarse. “Tell me.”
He could not lose her.
The thought of losing her was enough to suffocate him.
Kathleen muttered under her breath, “Samuel, just give me some time.”
Samuel was stunned.
“Give me three years. If I can conquer this, and if you can show me how sincere you are, I’m willing to give you another chance. So, could you stop pushing me now?” Kathleen asked, feeling upset.
Samuel shuddered as he said hoarsely, “All right. I can promise you that.”
I’ll promise you anything.
Kathleen closed her eyes and said, “All right. You might want to eat first.”
“I’m not hungry yet.” Samuel’s voice was low. “Just continue sleeping. I’m going to call someone to send me home immediately.”
Kathleen did not ask him to stay.
Samuel let go of her and got up to put on his coat.
“I’m leaving,” he said as he caressed her cheek gently.
Kathleen was already feeling sleepy.
She continued sleeping after Samuel left.
In the end, Samuel drove himself back.
He finally understood that Kathleen was not only disappointed in marriage. She had lost hope in everything.
If she had not wanted to investigate her mother’s identity…
He shuddered to think how things might have turned out instead.
Samuel drove to the Johnson residence.
He pressed on the doorbell multiple times.
The housekeeper was roused.
Still yawning, she opened the door, only to discover that it was Samuel. “Mr. Macari?”
“Where’s Charles?” Samuel asked impassively.
“He’s sleeping in his room,” the housekeeper replied.
Right then, Charles descended from the second floor, yawning. “Samuel, what are you doing? It’s four o’clock in the morning!”
Samuel approached the man and asked coldly, “Has Kate’s depression really been cured?”
“Why are you asking this?” Charles asked with furrowed brows.
“Answer me!” Samuel demanded.
“No!” Charles responded. “It cannot be cured. So, I’ve asked someone to amend her memories.”
As expected. She is still a pessimist.
Samuel felt drained.
Charles crossed his arms across his chest and said coldly, “Samuel, if you notice that Kate’s depression relapses, I can only tell you that there is nothing we can do about it if it gets worse.”
“What do you mean?” Samuel frowned.
“What if I tell you that I asked someone to perform hypnotherapy on Kate half a year ago? The anchor is her falling in love with you. As soon as she falls in love with you, those memories will resurface, and her condition will flare up. Are you going to continue pestering her then?” Charles asked in a serious tone.
Her condition will flare up?
Samuel felt a chill down his spine. “No. I’m not going to bother her any longer.”
“You’d better remember what you said. So, stay away from her and quit bothering her. Do you really wish to see her go mad?” Charles said in a frigid tone.
Samuel’s eyes turned red.
What have I done?
“Is there really no other way?” Samuel asked in a hoarse voice.
“We’ve tried everything but to no avail. Samuel, if you really love her, you really ought to let her go. I know that Kate will not fall in love with anyone else. She has lost all hope in love. How could you expect her to love again?”
Samuel gulped. “Help me contact the psychologist.”
“What are you doing?” Charles asked with furrowed brows.
“I’m going to cure Kate.” Samuel then continued with red-rimmed eyes, “Even if she’ll marry someone else in the future, I just can’t bear to see her tormented by her condition.”
Charles’ lips pursed into a thin, hard line. “That is useless.”
“How could you say that without giving it a try?” Samuel looked at him. “Give me the contact.”
“Wait for a moment,” Charles said before turning around to retrieve the contact for Samuel.
Meanwhile, Samuel slumped against the handrail of the stairs.
I’m going to save her!
Chapter 259
Celebrating New Year Together
After a few days, the film crew got a few days off because of the new year holidays.
Kathleen had been looking forward to it.
She moved from the hotel that the film crew had booked back to the mansion.
“Granny, what would you like to eat? I’m going to make some for you tomorrow.” Kathleen sat beside Frances with a notebook.
Frances smiled and said, “I will enjoy anything you make, Katie.”
Kathleen noticed that Frances had been influenced by Diana and started to call her Katie too.
“All right.” Kathleen kneeled on the carpet before the coffee table and planned out her menu seriously.
Ding dong.
The doorbell rang right then.
The housekeeper went to open the door. To her surprise, it was Samuel. “Mr. Macari?”
“I’m here to fetch Old Mrs. Yoeger,” he said coolly.
Meanwhile, Kathleen was rather surprised to hear what Samuel said.
Samuel had not looked for her in the past few days, nor had he appeared in front of her.
He had only sent two text messages a day—good morning and good night.
Kathleen did not know what he was getting at.
The housekeeper was stumped and blurted, “What?”
He eyed the housekeeper coldly.
The housekeeper snapped out of her surprise and immediately gave way to him.
Samuel headed inside the house and arrived in the living room as he eyed Frances and Kathleen.
“Good morning,” he said in his usual husky voice.
Kathleen blinked in surprise. “Why are you here?”
His tone was gentle. “I’m here to fetch Old Mrs. Yoeger to the Macari residence.”
“What?” Kathleen asked, confused.
He looked at Frances and said, “Old Mrs. Yoeger, do you remember? A few days ago, you promised my grandma that you would celebrate New Year at the Macari residence.”
Frances was hit by a pang of realization. “Ah, I’ve forgotten all about it.”
Kathleen was rather speechless.
“Old Mrs. Yoeger, my grandma has asked me to come and pick you up. Could you ask someone to pack your things? We’re going to leave when you’re ready,” Samuel said.
Frances nodded. “Come help me pack my things.”
“All right, Old Mrs. Yoeger.” The housekeeper made her way over and helped Frances back to her room.
Samuel lowered his gaze and regarded Kathleen. “Is there a problem?”
Kathleen frowned. “When was this decided?”
Samuel took a seat and replied, “A few days ago. They talked to each other over the phone and promised to spend the New Year together. I thought you knew.”
Kathleen shook her head. “I didn’t know at all.”
“Do you want to go together?” Samuel eyed her with a longing gaze.
She fidgeted uneasily under his stare. “No.”
“That’s your granny. Besides, Grandma misses you a lot. Everyone in the house does.”
I miss you too.
He kept the last sentence to himself.
Kathleen pursed her lips.
“You can take care of her if you tag along,” Samuel reasoned.
Kathleen hesitated for a moment.
“Go pack your things. I’ll send both of you there.” Samuel smiled.
“Aren’t you going to stay at the Macari residence during the New Year?” Kathleen asked curiously.
“I can make myself scarce if you do not wish to see me,” Samuel said mildly.
Kathleen paused for a moment. “That’s your home. You’ve always spent your New Year holidays there.”
Samuel remained silent.
Kathleen retracted her gaze and said, “Samuel, I told you I don’t hate you that much anymore.”
“Then let’s celebrate the New Year together. The house was exceptionally quiet without you last year,” Samuel said in a throaty voice.
“All right. Let me give my brother a call,” Kathleen replied.
“Sure.” Samuel’s thin lips curled into a faint smile. “You’d better go pack up then. But you don’t need to pack a lot. I’m sure there is plenty of what you need at home.”
Even though Kathleen had left the house, the things she used to use were still replenished periodically.
Kathleen pursed her red lips. “All right.”
Then, she got up to leave.
Samuel smiled.
After she went upstairs, he picked up the notebook that she left on the coffee table and noticed that she had written: butter prawns.
Samuel’s lips quirked into an amused grin. Is this something she’s planning to cook or something she’s craving to eat?
Samuel drove Kathleen and Frances to the Macari residence.
Diana personally welcomed her old friend.
She was over the moon to see that Kathleen had tagged along as well.
Diana held Kathleen’s hands and beamed with delight. “Katie, only when you are around that it feels like the New Year.”
Kathleen smiled shyly.
“Fran, we’re going to share a bed tonight.” Diana held Frances’ hand and said, “Let’s go. I’ve got to tell you all about this drama that I’m watching right now. It is so good!”
Then, the two old women walked away.
The housekeeper came to take Kathleen’s luggage.
“Please send it to my room,” Samuel said.
“All right, Mr. Macari.”
Kathleen was stumped.
“I’m going to sleep in the guest room,” Samuel explained.
“You’re the host. Why are you sleeping in the guest room instead?” Kathleen frowned.
“What host? Even Snowy enjoys a higher social status than me in this house,” Samuel joked.
Kathleen let out a chuckle. “That much is true.”
Samuel grinned as he looked at her smiling face. “Are you going to visit it?”
“Sure.” Kathleen was in a good mood.
Samuel brought her to the pet house to pay Snowy a visit.
Snowy practically hurled itself at Kathleen upon spotting her.
Kathleen beamed delightfully with Snowy in her embrace.
Samuel’s foul mood that had been dragging on for days finally improved after he saw her bright smile.
“The weather is quite pleasant today. Let’s take him for a walk in the garden,” Kathleen suggested.
“Sure,” Samuel said with a nod.
Kathleen opened the door, and Snowy was already eager to head out.
Kathleen looked sadly at Snowy who was running freely in the garden as she asked, “I remember you were not quite fond of it when I rescued it and took it in back then. Why is that?”
“Because I don’t like dogs. They shed,” Samuel stated plainly.
“That’s because you prefer cats,” Kathleen said with a chuckle.
“No, I don’t.” Samuel shook his head.
Kathleen teased, “Why? I remember someone giving Nicolette a cat right on the second day after she said she wanted one on her eighteenth birthday.”
Samuel smiled as he noticed her tone tinged with jealousy. “I was not the one taking care of it, anyway.”
Kathleen was speechless.
“You’re such a j*rk, Mr. Macari,” Kathleen mocked. “Why didn’t you send Snowy away after I left, then?”
“Because you like it,” Samuel said in a low voice.
Kathleen was at a loss for words.
Woof!
Snowy barked at them.
“Wait a minute,” Samuel said as he turned around to head back to the house.
After some time, he appeared with a frisbee in his hand.
Samuel threw the frisbee out.
Snowy stuck out its tongue and stared at them with an adorable look.
Samuel frowned. “You should go fetch it.”
Snowy did not budge.
Kathleen looked at the two.
Samuel appeared quite frustrated as he stepped out to fetch the frisbee. Then, he threw it in Snowy’s direction again.
Still, Snowy did not budge.
Samuel fell speechless.
Kathleen then threw out the frisbee.
Snowy immediately rushed to fetch it.
Samuel felt defeated while Kathleen just felt like laughing.
“Let me try again!” Samuel did not wish to admit defeat.
Kathleen passed him the frisbee.
Then, Samuel threw it out again.
Snowy merely looked at him blankly and did not move.
Samuel’s face turned grim as he announced, “Your New Year treat is canceled!”
Chapter 260
You Grew On Me
“Why are you picking a fight with a dog?” Kathleen smirked.
“Snowy didn’t know how to play fetch at first. I’m the one who taught it that year you left us. Now, it humiliates me in front of you. Don’t expect me to go easy on it from now on,” explained Samuel.
Seeing Samuel go through the roof, Snowy still lay on the ground, giving him the cold shoulder.
Anger got the better of Samuel there and then.
Flashing a smile, Kathleen uttered, “You were the one saying you didn’t want Snowy when I brought it back. I then wanted to bring it to the condominium, yet you objected to that. Perhaps Snowy resents you because of that.”
Samuel was rendered speechless.
“Or maybe… When you gifted Nicolette a cat, you got the stench of a cat on your body. Snowy must’ve remembered that smell of yours, so it loathes you,” added Kathleen.
After saying that, she went to retrieve the frisbee and played with Snowy.
Samuel grimaced.
Not only had he managed to traumatize other people, but he had even left scars in Snowy’s heart.
Kathleen and Snowy were having such a good time, but Samuel could only watch from the sidelines.
A sudden thought popped into his head. How nice it would’ve been had the child been given a chance to be born…
Thinking of that, he figured he was being too selfish to demand that much from Kathleen.
As long as she’s happy, nothing else matters.
Thump!
Samuel felt a tremendous pain in the back of his head.
“Watch out!” shouted Kathleen as she bolted toward Samuel. It was too late nonetheless.
“Are you all right?” Kathleen was worried. “I tossed the frisbee just now, but it changed its trajectory on its own. It wasn’t my intention.”
As Samuel caressed his head, he felt a sense of relief that he wasn’t bleeding, at the very least.
“I’m fine,” came his reply, and his tone was as calm as a millpond.
Kathleen quickly apologized to him, “I’m sorry about that.”
Gazing at her being all apologetic and anxious, Samuel had the urge to yank her right into his embrace and shower her with fondness.
“Help me back inside.” He reached out on that note.
Kathleen grabbed hold of his arm and agreed in an awkward manner, “Okay.”
Soon after, they entered the house.
Kathleen ordered the housekeeper to lead Snowy back to the pet house.
She then supported Samuel upstairs and made it all the way to the bedroom they had once shared together.
Out of the blue, Samuel came to a halt. “My room is next to yours.”
After dropping that sentence, he brought Kathleen to the guest room instead.
Prior to that, the guest room had already been tidied up.
Samuel’s daily necessities and clothes had also been moved into that room.
The second they stepped into the room, Samuel wanted to head to the couch.
However, Kathleen hindered his wish and urged, “You ought to go lie in bed.”
Samuel nodded obediently.
As he sat at the bedside, he began removing his jacket.
Kathleen caught a glimpse of it and recognized that jacket in a heartbeat. “Is this the jacket I got you last time?”
“Yes.” Samuel nodded.
Kathleen was at a loss for words. “Why don’t you wear a different one for a change?”
“But this is the only one you bought,” came Samuel’s retort. He felt aggrieved as he spoke.
Upon hearing that, Kathleen was dumbfounded.
Why has this become my fault?
“You even promised to get me new clothes but then went back on your word.” Samuel lay down as he spoke. “Because of that, I didn’t get to wear brand new garments for the New Year.”
While listening to him, Kathleen kept her lips buttoned.
Side-eyeing that docile lady right before him, Samuel complained, “You’re such a liar!”
Heaving a long sigh, Kathleen tried to elucidate the reason. “I didn’t bluff you. I merely got so busy in filming that I didn’t have any spare time to do it.”
“Oh? But you had plenty of time to offer Caleb your help.” A tinge of jealousy rose within Samuel’s heart.
Kathleen poked at his shoulder and refuted, “How can you compare clothes with humans? Besides, I helped Vivian out, not him.”
“It’s the same because they’re siblings. Caleb is just going to fancy you even more now that you’ve given Vivian a helping hand,” said Samuel softly.
At that point, he wasn’t acting up. In fact, he was truly in great sorrow.
All Kathleen felt was helplessness.
“Can I ask you a question, Kate?” Samuel went on with a deep voice, “I hope you can answer me truthfully.”
“Okay.” Kathleen nodded at that.
“I hurt you so badly in the past, but you seldom complained or lashed out at me. Why is that?” Samuel was baffled. “Just like me grumbling at you right now. You seemed to have never done it for as far as I could recall.”
After pausing for a bit, Kathleen piped up, “I did. Still, you would have an impatient look on your face every time I did that, so I didn’t feel like complaining anymore. Gradually, I came to realize that you wouldn’t listen even if I were to make a fuss. In the end, I decided not to waste my breath on you. Anyway, I was blindly in love with you at that time, so I thought I could put up with you.”
To be honest, she was no saint, so she couldn’t take it all in.
However, she had fallen head over heels for Samuel at that point in time, which was why she could pull through somehow.
Hearing her response, Samuel felt a stinging pang of sadness in his heart.
He then held her hands tightly and blurted out in a husky voice, “I’m so sorry, Kate.”
Kathleen, in turn, responded nonchalantly, “You really don’t have to say you’re sorry all the time.”
Looking up at the ceiling, Samuel dropped a remark. “Other than apologizing and treating you nicely, I have no idea what else I can do for you.”
“Don’t do anything, then. Just let things take their natural course,” suggested Kathleen plainly.
Samuel’s eyes turned red as he directed his gaze at her.
Hmm… Let nature take its course, huh? Does that mean I’d no longer hold a special place in her heart?
“Kate, I went to meet up with Kaisa several days ago.” Samuel’s voice was deep.
Kaisa?
“You mean that psychologist you’ve told me about?” Kathleen was slightly surprised by that.
Samuel explained with a hoarse voice, “Yup. Go get treated, Kate. I can’t bear to let you go in this state. As long as you go see Kaisa, I’ll give you my word that I won’t intrude into your life anymore. I mean it.”
He was a man of his word, so he would never break his promise.
Pressing her red lips together, Kathleen appeared to be fraught with worry.
Bang!
“Katie!” Wynnie barged in all of a sudden and broke the silence.
Samuel had nearly jumped up from the bed.
Immediately, Wynnie gave Kathleen a big hug and caressed her face at the same time. “I’m so glad you’re here! We can celebrate the New Year together again! I’ve even planned to send you the gift I’ve prepared for you. I’ll pass it to you later, okay?”
Samuel was rendered speechless.
It seems like my own mother has totally forgotten about me. Alas, everyone in this house is really giving me a headache.
Wynnie continued, “Come with me, Kate! Let’s head downstairs to discuss the menu.” With that, she began tugging at Kathleen’s arm, making a beeline for the stairs.
“But—” Kathleen turned her head to cast a glance at Samuel.
“Duh! Ignore that fellow. He’s only acting vulnerable. Hmph!” Without a second thought, Wynnie dragged Kathleen along and marched off.
Witnessing that, Samuel heaved a sigh.
Why’s everyone trying so hard to get in between me and my wife?
Feeling a little worn out lately, he figured he should just take a catnap.
Time passed. Samuel woke up, only to find himself drenched in sweat.
He decided to take a shower.
After walking into the bathroom, he realized that he had forgotten to bring along his bathrobe.
He recalled the bathrobe was still in the bathroom of Kathleen’s bedroom, so he headed there for it.
As he stepped into the room, he pushed open the bathroom door straight away.
“Ah!” Kathleen’s scream came from inside. She was shocked.
Samuel froze on the spot as well.
At that time, Kathleen had nothing on below her waist. All she was wearing was a white sweater with some red stains on it.
In a flash, Samuel wheeled around and looked away. His face, though, was already reddened like a tomato. “Sorry! I thought you were still downstairs.”
“I spilled the strawberry juice over, so I had to come up here to get changed,” explained Kathleen.
“Uh… I forgot my bathrobe.” Samuel stopped for a while at that. “Never mind. I’ll come back again after you’re done.”
“Hold up!” came Kathleen’s voice as she called out to Samuel.
He stopped in his tracks.
Samuel then heard Kathleen’s footsteps approaching him.
“Stretch out your hand,” instructed Kathleen.
Samuel did her bidding.
She then hung the bathrobe over his arm and said, “There.”
“Thanks,” replied Samuel with his croaky voice.
“No problem.” Kathleen took a few steps back and resumed her business.
With that, Samuel dashed out of the room at once.
Little did Kathleen know that Samuel had already seen her reflection from head to toe in the mirror earlier.
What an adrenaline rush! I don’t think I can bear it any longer!